cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pharmacogenetics of antihypertensive treatment

Hypertension is a common disorder associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, in the US only about one-third of those who are aware of their hypertensive status have their blood pressure adequately controlled. One reason for this is the variable and unpredictable response individuals have to pharmacologic treatment. Clinicians often resort to "trial-and-error" to match patients with effective drug treatment. Hypertension pharmacogenetics seeks to find genetic predictors of drug response. To date, more than forty studies have investigated associations between genetic polymorphisms and response to antihypertensive drugs. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and beta blockers have been most frequently studied, followed by angiotensin II blockers, diuretics, adrenergic alpha-agonists, and calcium channel blockers. Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system genes have been the most widely studied, with the angiotensin-converting enzyme I/D variant being typed in about one-half of all hypertension pharmacogenetic studies. In total, 160 possible gene polymorphism-drug interactions have been explored, with about one-quarter of these showing that genes predict drug response. However, disparate and conflicting findings have been the rule rather than the exception, and the discovery of clinically relevant antihypertensive drug-response genes remains elusive. While there is a growing enthusiasm that pharmacogenetics of hypertension is important, the translation of pharmacogenetic findings to clinical practice in the future will depend on additional studies to enhance our pharmacogenetics knowledge base, the availability of pharmacogenetic screening tests that are affordable and easy to implement in clinical practice, a cohort of clinicians who are trained to interpret genetic test results, and health care systems that pay for them. Caution regarding the future of hypertension pharmacogenetics is warranted.
The meaning and measurement of self-complexity

Abstract The self-complexity (SC) theory is a structural model of self-knowledge that suggests individual differences in the complexity of knowledge about the self are predictive of emotional stability and reactivity to stress. Various studies have identified problems concerning the consistency, reliability and validity of the often used measure of SC, the dimensionality statistic (H; Scott, 1969 ). Addressing these issues, the present study proposes 2 alternative measures of the components of SC and examines psychometric properties of these measures. Results of this study indicate a lack of a general factor underlying the dimensionality statistic. In addition, they offer support for the benefit of distinguishing between 2 components of self-complexity: quantity of self-aspects and overlap among them.
The relation between the subcellular distribution of [3H]reserpine and its proposed site of action

The amount of [3H]reserpine retained after injection is greater in the heart, a tissue with a high density of adrenergic innervation than in femoral muscle. Subcellular distribution studies emphasized that 15 and 60 min after injection of [3H]reserpine it could not be shown to be uniquely associated with the noradrenaline-containing granules. The possibility existed that the large amount of reserpine bound to cellular lipids at these times might mask a more specific binding. A reduction in the dose and a lengthening of the time between drug administration and tissue measurement to 18 h revealed a small amount of [3H]reserpine to be bound more firmly to the microsomal or amine granule-containing fraction. Prior saturation of tissue binding sites by treatment with large amounts of unlabelled reserpine or tetrabenazine decreased the retention of subsequently injected [3H]reserpine. This decreased tissue retention resulted in an increase in the formation of [3H]trimethoxybenzoic acid. A model is proposed relating tissue distribution and binding to reserpine's mechanism of action.
Age-related changes in CD8 T cell homeostasis and immunity to infection

Studies of CD8 T cell responses to vaccination or infection with various pathogens in both animal models and human subjects have revealed a markedly consistent array of age-related defects. In general, recent work shows that aged CD8 T cell responses are decreased in magnitude, and show poor differentiation into effector cells, with a reduced arsenal of effector functions. Here we review potential mechanisms underlying these defects. We specifically address phenotypic and numeric changes to the naive CD8 T cell precursor pool, the impact of persistent viral infection(s) and inflammation, and contributions of the aging environment in which these cells are activated.
TH‐A‐BRF‐11: Image Intensity Non‐Uniformities Between MRI Simulation and Diagnostic MRI

Purpose: MRI simulation for MRI-based radiotherapy demands that patients be setup in treatment position, which frequently involves use of alternative radiofrequency (RF) coil configurations to accommodate immobilized patients. However, alternative RF coil geometries may exacerbate image intensity non-uniformities (IINU) beyond those observed in diagnostic MRI, which may challenge image segmentation and registration accuracy as well as confound studies assessing radiotherapy response when MR simulation images are used as baselines for evaluation. The goal of this work was to determine whether differences in IINU exist between MR simulation and diagnostic MR images. Methods: ACR-MRI phantom images were acquired at 3T using a spin-echo sequence (TE/TR:20/500ms, rBW:62.5kHz, TH/skip:5/5mm). MR simulation images were obtained by wrapping two flexible phased-array RF coils around the phantom. Diagnostic MR images were obtained by placing the phantom into a commercial phased-array head coil. Pre-scan normalization was enabled in both cases. Images were transferred offline and corrected for IINU using the MNI N3 algorithm. Coefficients of variation (CV=σ/μ) were calculated for each slice. Wilcoxon matched-pairs and Mann-Whitney tests compared CV values between original and N3 images and between MR simulation and diagnostic MR images. Results: Significant differences in CV were detected between original and N3 images in bothmore » MRI simulation and diagnostic MRI groups (p=0.010, p=0.010). In addition, significant differences in CV were detected between original MR simulation and original and N3 diagnostic MR images (p=0.0256, p=0.0016). However, no significant differences in CV were detected between N3 MR simulation images and original or N3 diagnostic MR images, demonstrating the importance of correcting MR simulation images beyond pre-scan normalization prior to use in radiotherapy. Conclusions: Alternative RF coil configurations used in MRI simulation can Result in significant IINU differences compared to diagnostic MR images. The MNI N3 algorithm reduced MR simulation IINU to levels observed in diagnostic MR images. Funding provided by Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin.« less
Imaging and Manipulating Single Spins in Diamond

We describe an angle-resolved magneto-photoluminescence microscope used to investigate electron spin interactions of single nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond. Spatially-resolved spectroscopy and electron spin resonance measurements reveal single and coupled coherent spin dynamics at room temperature.
The impact of technology on the enactment of “inquiry” in a technology enthusiast's sixth grade science classroom

This study investigated the impact of the use of computer technology on the enactment of ''inquiry'' in a sixth grade science classroom. Participants were 42 students (38% female) enrolled in two sections of the classroom and taught by a technology-enthusiast instructor. Data were collected over the course of 4 months during which several ''inquiry'' activities were completed, some of which were supported with the use of technology. Non-participant observation, classroom videotaping, and semi- structured and critical-incident interviews were used to collect data. The results indicated that the technology in use worked to restrict rather than promote ''inquiry'' in the participant classroom. In the presence of computers, group activities became more structured with a focus on sharing tasks and accounting for individual responsibility, and less time was dedicated to group discourse with a marked decrease in critical, meaning-making discourse. The views and beliefs of teachers and students in relation to their specific contexts moderate the potential of technology in supporting inquiry teaching and learning and should be factored both in teacher training and attempts to integrate technology in science teaching. 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 44: 154-182, 2007 Current reform efforts in science education envision science teaching that is inquiry-based and collaborative, and targets the development of student conceptual understandings, inquiry abilities and skills, and scientific habits of mind (American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), 1990, 1993; National Research Council (NRC), 1996). Such a vision entails pedagogical and instructional approaches that are different from the traditional approaches that typify science teaching in the larger majority of K-12 classrooms. Instead, reform documents argue for providing students with opportunities to engage in authentic inquiry (National Research Council, 1996), which ''refers to the research that scientists actually carry out'' (Chinn & Malhotra, 2002, p. 177). ''When engaging in inquiry, students describe objects and events, ask questions, construct explanations, test those explanations ... , and communicate their ideas,'' and throughout the process ''they identify their assumptions, use critical and logical thinking, and consider alternative explanations'' (National Research Council, 1996, p. 2). Inquiry provides an
Naphtho[2,3-a]pyrene Forms Chiral Domains on Au(111)

Chiral domains have been prepared by evaporation of a two-dimensionally chiral molecule, naphtho[2,3-a]pyrene (NP), onto the hexagonal Au(111) surface in an ultrahigh vacuum environment. High-resolution UHV scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) showed that NP formed chiral domains consisting of only one 2D enantiomer rather than racemic two-dimensional unit cells. A structural model is proposed that agrees with the STM observations. Chiral pockets between adsorbed molecules may be useful for binding a specific enantiomer of a 3D chiral molecule.
Presence of functionally active cytochrome P-450IIE1 in the plasma membrane of rat hepatocytes

Recent experiments have described the presence of cytochrome P-450 and certain P-450 isozymes in the plasma membrane of rat liver. Experiments were carried out to evaluate whether cytochrome P-450IIE1 was present in the plasma membrane fraction of livers from control rats and rats treated with 4-methylpyrazole, which induces this isozyme. Using immunofluorescence, fluorescence was detected at the surface of intact hepatocytes that were initially incubated with anti–P-450IIE1 IgG, but not preimmune IgG, followed by incubating with goat antirabbit IgG conjugated with either fluorescein or rhodamine. The fluorescence appeared to be uniformly distributed across the entire surface. Intense intracellular staining could be observed when the hepatocytes were permeabilized by acetone treatment. Similar results were obtained with control hepatocytes; however, the fluorescence intensity was considerably less than that shown by the induced hepatocytes. Hepatocytes isolated from the pericentral zone of the liver acinus displayed more intense fluorescence at the surface than did hepatocytes from the periportal zone. Purified plasma membranes oxidized dimethylnitrosamine to formaldehyde at rates that were 14% to 30% that of the microsomes, which exceeds the 3% contamination of the plasma membranes by microsomes as assessed by glucose-6-phosphatase activity. Immunoblots of the plasma membranes revealed the presence of a single band, whose intensity of staining was 14% to 26% that of the microsomes. Oxidation of dimethylnitrosamine and immunoblot intensity were about twofold greater with plasma membrane fractions from 4-methylpyrazole–treated rats than controls. These results suggest the presence of inducible, functionally active P-450IIE1 in the plasma membrane, which may be of toxicological significance in view of the preferential metabolism of a variety of hepatotoxins and carcinogens and the elevated production of reactive oxygen intermediates by this isozyme. (Hepatology 1992;15:515–524).
Effect of Several Temperature Regimes on the Development and Timing of Responsiveness of Males of Trichoplusia ni to the Female Sex Pheromone

Males of Trichoplusia ni (Hubner), the cabbage looper moth, were maintained at two constant temperature regimes, 25° and 15°C, as well as at an alternating 25° day:15° night regime. The males held at constant 15° required at least 9 days following emergence from the pupa to acquire maximal responsiveness to the synthetic female sex pheromone, cis -7-dodecenyl acetate, whereas those held at constant 25° or at 25:15° were maximally responsive by 3–5 days following emergence. Within a 10-hr scotophase, males held at 25°, 25:15°, and 15° achieved maximal pheromone responsiveness by the 7th, 3rd, and 1st hours, respectively, after the onset of darkness. This advancing of the diel expression of responsiveness with reducing temperatures is similar to that seen earlier for the time of release of pheromone by T. ni females. Males conditioned at the more natural, fluctuating (25:15°) temperatures tended to be 3 to 6-times more responsive to pheromone than those maintained at the constant (25° or 15°) temperatures.
An examination of changes in oxytocin levels in men and women before and after interaction with a bonded dog

ABSTRACTOxytocin (OT) is a neuropeptide increasingly recognized for its role in bonding, socialization, and stress relief. Previous research has demonstrated participants' OT levels increased after interacting with or petting a dog, suggesting OT is at least partially responsible for the calm, relaxing feeling that participants experienced during this intervention. The purpose of our study was to more closely examine changes in oxytocin levels in men and women in response to interaction with their own dog after being separated from the dog while at work all day. This condition was compared with a reading control condition, without the presence of the dog. Because the workplace is a common stressor, participants were examined after work to evaluate how interacting with a pet may help decrease stress, as evidenced by increases in serum oxytocin levels. Ten men and ten women participated in the study. Serum oxytocin levels were obtained before the participants had contact with their dogs and then again after...
Particle-in-cell simulations of Raman forward scattering from short-pulse high-intensity lasers.

We present one- and two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations of short-pulse (\ensuremath{\tau}1 ps) high-intensity (I\ensuremath{\le}${10}^{18}$ W/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$) laser propagation through an underdense plasma. The simulations model near-term experiments without the limitations of the fluid and quasistatic approximations. We find that Raman forward scattering plays a dominant role in the evolution of the pulse in distances less than a Rayleigh length. Raman forward scattering results in significant spectral cascading and energetic electron generation from wave breaking of the resulting plasma wave. Both of these effects should be useful as experimental diagnostics.
De novo asymmetric synthesis of the mezzettiaside family of natural products via the iterative use of a dual B-/Pd-catalyzed glycosylation.

The first synthesis of any and all members of the mezzettiaside family of natural products has been achieved. The reported synthesis features the iterative use of the Taylor catalyst in a dual nucleophilic boron/electrophilic palladium catalyzed regioselective glycosylation. In addition, the de novo approach utilizes atomless protecting groups and the minimal use of protecting groups (2 chloroacetates for the synthesis of 10 natural products). These divergent syntheses occurred in a range of 13–22 longest linear steps and required only 41 total steps to prepare the entire family of mezzettiasides.
Initial Results From the Non‐Methane Hydrocarbon Intercomparison Experiment

The Non-Methane Hydrocarbon Intercomparison Experiment (NOMHICE) is described. This experiment has been designed to evaluate analytical techniques currently being used by scientists throughout the world to measure ambient atmospheric hydrocarbon concentrations. NOMHICE consists of a series of planned experiments designed to identify existing problems in participating scientist's laboratories and to correct them. The various experimental steps (or phases) have been scheduled in order of increasing complexity so that problems can be addressed as they arise. Results are presented for the initial phases of this program. Phase 1 involved the circulation of a 2 component gravimetrically prepared standard to 40 laboratories throughout the world. Participants were asked to quantify but not identify the components. Phase 2 involved the circulation of a more complex 16 component gravimetrically prepared mixture to 32 participants. Participants were asked to identify and quantify the components. Further tasks are described which will be carried out in the future.
Reconciliation of expressions for the modified retardation factor and incorporation of non-linear contaminant sorption to the stationary phase

Abstract The retardation factor describes the average velocity of a sorbing contaminant in groundwater relative to the average velocity of groundwater. The modified retardation factor ( R ′ or R * ) describes the average velocity of a sorbing contaminant relative to groundwater in the presence of a carrier that binds the contaminant and facilitates its transport. Dissolved organic matter and particulate colloids are examples of potential facilitating carriers. The modified retardation factor R ′ concerns the case when sorption of the carrier itself to the stationary phase is negligible, whereas R * accounts for significant sorption of a facilitating carrier to the stationary phase, and so represents a magnitude less than R , but greater than R ′. A well-cited expression for R * is shown to differ in form and behavior relative to a lesser known expression for R * , and the bounds of applicability of these expressions are examined. The lesser-known expression for R * is shown to be more broadly applicable in its ability to describe situations where carrier sorption to the stationary phase is significant, and even rivals or exceeds that of the contaminant. The well-known expression for R * is shown to be not applicable to situations involving significant sorption of the carrier. The derivation of the expression for R * presented in this paper is given by two separate methods used to develop the previously published expressions, in order to relate the presented and previously published expression to each other. The expression is extended to include non-linear contaminant sorption to the stationary phase, and predictions from this expression are compared to a set of experimental data.
Viewpoint: The Future of Computing Practice and Education

Computer science holds a special position among engineering disciplines. First, it is a relatively new field characterized by underlying exponential performance improvements. Second, its subfields include modeling all other engineered, natural, and human systems. Over the past 70 years, computing practice and education have had to adapt to rapidly changing technology, applications, and the evolution of the IT industry itself. Given that research-driven computing practice and education show no signs of slowing down, what lies ahead for computing professionals? The paper suggest one possible future of computing that is both worthy of pursuing and respectful of its best traditions.
Mitochondrial K+ transport: Effect of N-ethyl maleimide on42K flux

Abstract The energy-linked flux of K + into rat liver mitochondria is found to be stimulated by the sulfhydryl reagent, N -ethyl maleimide. The stimulation of K + influx by N -ethyl maleimide is observed only at alkaline external pH. N -ethyl maleimide also stimulates efflux of K + from the mitochondria. The stimulation by N -ethyl maleimide of K + influx, but not K + efflux, is dependent on the availability of metabolic energy. It is suggested that the effect of N -ethyl maleimide on K + influx may be secondarily the result of an inhibition of phosphate-hydroxyl exchange. The dependence of energy-linked K + influx on the external pH may be interpreted as evidence for a role of OH − as a counterion accompanying K + through the mitochondrial pump mechanism.
A prospective observational study of post-operative analgesic requirements for fundonlication

Introduction Laparoscopic surgical techniques have developed more slowly in children than adults. This is due to technical problems, a longer surgical learning curve and an underappreciation of post-operative pain and surgical stress in small children (1). Fundoplication is a well-established procedure that is commonly performed in children. The laparoscopic approach is becoming increasingly popular and it is claimed to result in a significantly lower or even no post-operative opioid requirement (2,3) Methods Over a one-year period all children undergoing elective Fundoplication were prospectively studied. The surgical technique (laparoscopy or laparotomy) and intra-operative analgesic requirements were recorded. Postoperatively the pain control service reviewed the analgesic requirements twice daily and any parenteral or epidural infusions weaned as appropriate to the pain scores. Results A total of 64 cases were studied, 40 performed via laparotomy, and 24 by laparoscopy. Post-operative pain was controlled with a morphine nurse controlled analgesia system (NCA) in all the laparoscopy patients and 18 of the laparotomy patients. The remaining 22 patients in the laparotorny group received epidural analgesia postoperatively. The mean weight was 12 kg for each group. Laparotomy took a mean of 103 min while laparoscopy a mean of 163 min. Mean time to first oral intake was 46 hours for laparotomy and 38 hours for laparoscopy. Discussion As the population studied included one whole years caseload selection bias was minimised so we feel that these results truly reflect the analgesic requirements for this operation. Suprisingly intra-operative opioid administration was greater during laparoscopy than laparotomy. This may just reflect the longer surgical time but could also be explained by the anaesthetists responding to the cardiovascular responses of hypertension and tachycardia elicited by pneumoperitoneum (2). Contrary to other studies (2,3) we found that even on days 3–4 post-laparoscopy a significant number of patients needed parenteral opioids augmented with simple analgesics. Patients who are discharged within 3 days of their operation are in danger of experiencing significant pain at home and must be followed up. The laparoscopy group had a shorter time to first oral intake and a better cosmetic outcome reflecting the reported advantages of this approach. Conclusions Laparoscopic fundoplication has a significant intra and post-operative analgesic requirement that has previously been underestimated. The laparoscopic approach leads to a quicker oral intake and a better cosmetic result.
Secondary products of lipid oxidation

In the last decade, a multitude of secondary products have been identified from the radical and photosensitized oxidations of polyunsaturated lipids. These secondary products consist of oxygenated monomeric materials including epoxy-hydroperoxides, oxo-hydroperoxides, hydroperoxy epidioxides, dihydroperoxides, hydroperoxy bis-epidioxides, and hydroperoxy bicycloendoperoxides. More recently, higher molecular weight dimeric compounds have been identified from autoxidized methyl linoleate and linolenate. Decomposition of these oxidation products form a wide range of carbonyl compounds, hydrocarbons, furans, and other materials that contribute to the flavor deterioration of foods and that are implicated in biological oxidation. The interaction of some of these degradation products with DNA may be involved in cell-damaging reactions.
Practice-Based Evidence and Evidence-Based Practice: The Evidence for Outcomes Management

In response to our description of a computer-assisted outcomes management tool for outpatient psychotherapy, Stickle (2006) and Lueger (2006) offer informed and provocative commentaries about both the conceptual and practical aspects of the Polaris-MH system. While we share their enthusiasm for the importance of outcomes data and agree with many of their comments, we differ on some points. In the end, empirical evidence in support of outcomes management generally, and the Polaris-MH specifically, should carry the day.
Productive Strategies for the Pronunciation of Early Polysyllabic Lexical Items

The purpose of this investigation was to identify productive strategies for the pronunciation of early polysyllabic words. Replicas (children's modifications) of adult models were classified as either syllable-maintaining or syllable-reducing based on the types and frequencies of phonological processes applied in attempts to achieve simplification. Four children aged 20–24 months were tape-recorded as they were informally engaged in activities that involved naming toys and pictures represented by polysyllabic words. Different productive strategies were observed with different children. The classification of modification types as syllable-maintaining or syllable-reducing provided a useful framework in which to describe regularities in one child and among children for producing complex phonological sequences. Children varied from one another with respect to (a) the consistency in productions across lexical items (interword production), (b) the consistency in productions (tokens) of a single word (intraword)...
Dissociated functional pathways for appetitive and consummatory reproductive behaviors in male Syrian hamsters

In many species, including Syrian hamsters, the generation of male reproductive behavior depends critically on the perception of female odor cues from conspecifics in the environment. The behavioral response to these odors is mediated by a network of steroid-sensitive ventral forebrain nuclei including the medial amygdala (MA), posterior bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) and medial preoptic area (MPOA). Previous studies have demonstrated that each of these three nuclei is required for appropriate sexual behavior and that MA preferentially sends female odor information directly to BNST and MPOA. It is unknown, however, how the functional connections between MA and BNST and/or MPOA are organized to generate different aspects of reproductive behavior. Therefore, the following experiments used the asymmetrical pathway lesion technique to test the role of the functional connections between MA and BNST and/or MPOA in odor preference and copulatory behaviors. Lesions that functionally disconnected MA from MPOA eliminated copulatory behavior but did not affect odor preference. In contrast, lesions that functionally disconnected MA from BNST eliminated preference for volatile female odors but did not affect preference for directly contacted odors or copulatory behavior. These results therefore demonstrate a double dissociation in the functional connections required for attraction to volatile sexual odors and copulation and, more broadly, suggest appetitive and consummatory reproductive behaviors are mediated by distinct neural pathways.
Rewritable optical disk drive technology

Optical disk drives provide an effective solution to the growing need for removable high-capacity storage. In this paper, we review the technology behind the optical disk drives used in IBM's optical storage systems. The basic physics of data recording and readout and the engineering of the primary building blocks of an optical drive (the optical head, the servo system, and the data channel) are discussed. We also outline the technological directions of future optical drives as they must continue to improve in performance and capacity.
Unstable complexes of I125-labeled house dust and an antibody-like globulin from human sera☆

Abstract The direct reaction between a radioiodine-labeled purified house dust allergen and human sera has been studied by precipitation of antigen-antibody complexes with cold ethanol. Antibody was found in sera of 8 of 16 nonallergic persons and 27 of 32 of those allergic to dust. The antibody was not found in significantly greater quantites in sera of patients who had received house dust injections than in sera of untreated patients. The antibody was destroyed by heating to 56° C. for 1 hour, by exposure to pH 4 for 2 hours, and by incubation with mercaptoethanol for 30 minutes. It was found predominately in the euglobulin fraction of serum. The reaction was inhibited by excess unlabeled house dust but not by a variety of other antigens. These antigen-antibody complexes vanished during prolonged incubation at 37° C., decaying in a reaction exhibiting first-order kinetics. The rate of decay was temperature dependent. It was inhibited by heavy metals, soybean trypsin inhibitor, some synthetic ester substrates of chymotrypsin, indol, and β indol acetic acid. It was not inhibited by 1.5 molar sodium chloride, ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid, phenol, iodoacetic acid- N-ethyl maleimide, p-mercuribenzoic acid dl tryptophane, glucuronolactone, salicylate, diisopropyl fluorophosphate, or epsilon-amino caproic acid.
The Physical Chemistry of Stressed Solids

The ability to resist shear is a defining characteristic of a solid, and distinguishes it from liquids and gases. Stress is one of the major additional features, in addition to periodicity and anisotropy, in the physical chemistry of solids. Diffusion, phase changes, and reactions alter the state of stress, and this in turn affects the course of the reactions. The stressed state can be an equilibrium state under the constraints of the available mechanisms. The current view of the physical chemistry of stressed solids will be surveyed with emphasis on the many new concepts about equilibria and how stresses evolve and influence reaction paths and mechanisms.
Development of Children Exposed to Illegal Drugs in Utero

(2001). Development of Children Exposed to Illegal Drugs in Utero. Adoption Quarterly: Vol. 4, No. 4, pp. 47-56.
How adult children in the UK and the US view the driving cessation of their parents: Is a policy window opening?

Both the UK and the US have rapidly ageing and increasingly diverse populations very dependent on driving. A comparative study commissioned by the UK Department for Transport found that in both the UK and the US adult children of older drivers, whilst often concerned about their parents’ continued driving, were also worried about the burden they would carry when their parents stopped driving, although there were differences by race and ethnicity. This study suggests that a policy window may be opening through which babyboomers can advocate for a range of driver training, roadway and vehicle improvements, expansion and enhancement of traditional public transportation and community transport options, improvements in accessibility and pedestrian infrastructure, and supportive land use and housing policies that would allow older people to drive safely longer, and, find meaningful mobility options when they can no longer drive. Policy responses must recognise and respond appropriately to differences by race and ethnicity.
5-fluorouracil pharmacokinetics: causes for variability and strategies for modulation in cancer chemotherapy.

(1999). 5-Fluorouracil Pharmacokinetics: Causes for Variability and Strategies for Modulation in Cancer Chemotherapy. Cancer Investigation: Vol. 17, No. 7, pp. 494-506.
A cost-efficient frequency-domain photoacoustic imaging system.

Photoacoustic (PA) imaging techniques have recently attracted much attention and can be used for noninvasive imaging of biological tissues. Most PA imaging systems in research laboratories use the time domain method with expensive nanosecond pulsed lasers that are not affordable for most educational laboratories. Using an intensity modulated light source to excite PA signals is an alternative technique, known as the frequency domain method, with a much lower cost. In this paper, we describe a simple frequency domain PA system and demonstrate its imaging capability. The system provides opportunities not only to observe PA signals in tissue phantoms but also to acquire hands-on skills in PA signal detection. It also provides opportunities to explore the underlying mechanisms of the PA effect.
Tetanus: pathophysiology, clinical signs, diagnosis, and update on new treatment modalities

Objective: To review the pathophysiology, clinical signs, diagnosis, and current treatment modalities used in treating tetanus in small animals and humans. Etiology: Tetanus is caused by the activity of a toxin released from the bacterial organism, Clostridium tetani. The disease has an incubation period of 3 days to 3 weeks and usually follows a deep penetrating wound. Diagnosis: The diagnosis of tetanus is usually based on history and clinical signs. Therapy: Therapy of tetanus consists of direct and supportive care and includes toxin neutralization via human or equine derived immunoglobulin, antimicrobial therapy to eliminate C. tetani, and central and peripheral muscle relaxants to control hypertonicity. Adjunctive care may include positive pressure ventilation, anticonvulsant medication, drugs to treat autonomic dysfunction, and nutritional support. Prognosis: Prognosis varies based on severity of clinical signs at the time of diagnosis and the availability of appropriate care.
445 ISOLATION OF AN IMHJNOREACTIVE SUBSTANCE IN PATIENTS WITH DEXAHETHASONE-SUPPRESSIBLE HYPERALDOSTERONISM (DSH)

We have isolated a substance immunoreactive (IR) with the aldosterone (aldo) antibody in patients with DSH. Substantial data exists that an unidentified steroid with mineralocorticoid properties plays an important role in the etiology of the hypertension in patients with DSH. This IR substance is more polar than 18-oxocortisol by paper chromatography. It is also more polar than aldo, facilitating separation from aldo utilizing high-pressure liquid chromatography. This substance was detected in both the free (930 pg IR/ml urine) extracts of urine in patients with DSH and was not detected in non-hypertensive controls. In addition, this IR substance was not detected in an adrenalectomized patient and was not detected in two patients with 11β-hydroxylase deficiency with and without hypertension. In patients with DSH, the IR substance increased substantially after a 6 hr infusion of ACTH (3400 pg IR/ml urine). In normal controls, no appreciable amount of immunoreactivity was detected in the baseline state. After ACTH stimulation a small amount was detected. Dexamethasone administration results in suppression of aldosterone and suppression of the IR substance in patients with DSH. With the techniques we have developed, we are now able to isolate a sufficient amount of purified material to submit for mass spectrometry analysis.
Adjuvant radiotherapy for resected pancreatic cancer: a lack of benefit or a lack of adequate trials?

Even after complete resection of nonmetastatic pancreatic cancer, recurrence rates are high. Combined modality therapy including radiation therapy reduces the recurrence rate and improves disease-free survival for several types of tumor of the gastrointestinal tract, but the use of adjuvant radiotherapy for pancreatic cancer is controversial. In this Review, the authors discuss the studies—prospective and retrospective—and the issues surrounding the use of adjuvant radiotherapy for pancreatic cancer.
Synoptic imaging of nearshore bathymetric patterns

[1] A new technique for near real-time optical imaging of surf zone morphology, synoptic imaging, implemented at Scripps Beach, La Jolla, California, permits simultaneous measurements of the time-varying position of individual linear and lunate megaripples, fields of bed forms, rocks, cobble patches, beach steps and sandbars, and troughs. A varying threshold filter for brightness is applied to video frames sampled at 1 Hz to remove pixels corresponding to surface foam and suspended bubbles or sediment. Remaining fragments of the video frames are averaged over time intervals generally ranging from 5 to 10 min to produce images of the surf zone sand bed. To facilitate accurate measurement of the position of sand bed features, these images are enhanced to increase feature visibility, transformed to plan view, and corrected for refraction using surveyed bathymetry and tide level. Contrast in the images results from differences in water depth, shading variations from tilted bed surfaces, and changes in bed material. The surveyed positions of megaripples and sandbars correspond to the positions of persistent features in the images. A ray path model quantifying sand bed contrast as a function of water depth, angle of line-of-sight, and light attenuation coefficient in water predicts that for the Scripps Beach field site, bed forms with height as small as 0.03–0.2 m can be detected in water depths up to 2.5 m, in accord with observations, and that visibility can be improved by changing the line of sight toward overhead viewing. Bed visibility is reduced by persistent surface foam and water turbidity generated by waves with period <8 s and height exceeding 1.5 m. Example images showing transitions between linear and lunate megaripples, location of megaripple crestlines, and the interaction between sandbars, bed form fields, and cobble patches illustrate the potential of synoptic imaging.
Occupational functioning and impairment in adults with body dysmorphic disorder

Objective: Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is relatively common and appears to be associated with marked impairment in psychosocial functioning. Previous reports, however, did not investigate occupational functioning in detail, assess impairment specifically in occupational functioning using standardized measures in a nontreatment seeking sample, or examine correlates of occupational impairment. Methods: Occupational functioning and other clinical variables were assessed in 141 adults with BDD. Measures included the Range of Impaired Functioning Tool and other reliable and valid self-report and interviewer-administered measures. Results: Fewer than half of subjects were working full-time, and 22.7% were receiving disability pay. Thirty-nine percent of the sample reported not working in the past month because of psychopathology. Of those subjects who worked in the past month, 79.7% reported impairment in work functioning because of psychopathology. Adults with BDD who were not working because of psychopathology were comparable to subjects who were working in most demographic variables, delusionality of BDD beliefs, and duration of BDD. However, compared to subjects who worked in the past month, those not currently working because of psychopathology had more severe BDD and more chronic BDD. They also were more likely to be male, had less education, and had more severe depressive symptoms, a higher rate of certain comorbid disorders, poorer current social functioning and quality of life, a higher rate of lifetime suicidality, and were more likely to have been psychiatrically hospitalized. Conclusions: A high proportion of individuals with BDD were unable to work because of psychopathology; most who worked reported impairment in occupational functioning. Certain clinical variables, including more severe and chronic BDD, were associated with not working.
An asymmetrical dipole tag with optimum harmonic conversion efficiency

Extremely small passive dipole tags have been used for tracking insects with a harmonic radar. It will be shown that by adjusting the dipole feed point location, the conversion efficiency, and hence the maximum detection range, can be optimized. Analysis, simulations and measurements on X-band tags confirm that the best tag efficiency is achieved with a half-wavelength dipole and asymmetric 1∶2 dipole arm lengths.
Nodal basin recurrence following lymph node dissection for melanoma: implications for adjuvant radiotherapy.

Abstract Purpose: To analyze patterns of failure in malignant melanoma patients with lymph node involvement who underwent complete lymph node dissection (LND) of the nodal basin. To determine prognostic factors predictive of local recurrence in the lymph node basin in order to select patients who may benefit from adjuvant radiotherapy. Methods and Materials: A retrospective analysis of 338 patients undergoing complete LND for melanoma between 1970 and 1996 who had pathologically involved lymph nodes was performed. Mean follow-up from the time of LND was 54 months (range: 12–306 months). Lymph node basins dissected included the neck (56 patients), axilla (160 patients), and groin (122 patients). Two hundred fifty-three patients (75%) underwent therapeutic LND for clinically involved nodes, while 85 patients (25%) had elective dissections. Forty-four percent of patients received adjuvant systemic therapy. No patients received adjuvant radiotherapy to the lymph node basin. Results: Overall and disease-specific survival for all patients at 10 years was 30% and 36%, respectively. Overall nodal basin recurrence was 30% at 10 years. Mean time to nodal basin recurrence was 12 months (range: 2–78 months). Site of nodal involvement was prognostic with 43%, 28%, and 23% nodal basin recurrence at 10 years with cervical, axillary, and inguinal involvement, respectively ( p = 0.008). Extracapsular extension (ECE) led to a 10-year nodal basin failure rate of 63% vs. 23% without ECE ( p p = 0.002). Lymph nodes larger than 6 cm led to a failure rate of 80% compared to 42% for nodes 3–6 cm and 24% for nodes less than 3 cm ( p 10 nodes involved ( p = 0.0001). There was no significant difference in nodal basin control in patients with synchronous or metachronous lymph node metastases, nor in patients receiving or not receiving adjuvant systemic therapy. Nodal basin failure was predictive of distant metastasis with 87% of patients with nodal basin recurrence developing distant disease compared to 54% of patients without nodal failure ( p Conclusions: Malignant melanoma patients with nodal involvement have a significant risk of nodal basin failure after LND if they have cervical involvement, ECE, >3 positive lymph nodes, clinically involved nodes, or any node larger than 3 cm. Patients with these risk factors should be considered for adjuvant radiotherapy to the lymph node basin to reduce the incidence of nodal basin recurrence. Patients with nodal basin failure are at higher risk of developing distant metastases.
Bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, A Potentially Better Practice, Reduces the Use of Mechanical Ventilation Among Very Low Birth Weight Infants With Respiratory Distress Syndrome

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this work was to assess a quality improvement initiative to implement a potentially better practice, bubble continuous positive airway pressure, to reduce bronchopulmonary dysplasia and improve other pulmonary outcomes among very low birth weight infants with respiratory distress syndrome. METHODS. An initiative to implement the use of bubble continuous positive airway pressure is described that was based on the adoption of habits for change, collaborative learning, evidence-based practice, and process development. To assess the efficacy of this intervention, very low birth weight infants with respiratory distress syndrome born after implementation of bubble continuous positive airway pressure use (period 2: March 1, 2005, to October 4, 2007; N = 126) were compared with historical controls born during a previous period of ventilator use (period 1: January 1, 2003, to February 28, 2005; N = 88). Infants at both time periods were similar with respect to characteristics and aspects of perinatal care. Pulmonary outcomes compared for the 2 time periods included receipt of mechanical ventilation, duration of mechanical ventilation, pneumothoraces, and incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Nonpulmonary outcomes were also compared. RESULTS. The use of mechanical ventilation declined during period 2. The mean duration (+ SD) of conventional ventilation during period 2 was shorter than during period 1 (3.08 + 6.17 vs 5.25 + 8.16 days), and fewer infants during period 2 required conventional ventilation for >6 days compared with those in period 1 (13.6% vs 26.3%). In regression models, the effect of period 2 persisted after controlling for other predictors of duration of conventional ventilation. There were no significant differences in other pulmonary or nonpulmonary outcomes, with the exception of mild retinopathy of prematurity (stage I or II), which was more common during period 2. The enhanced odds of retinopathy of prematurity persisted after controlling for other known predictors of this condition. CONCLUSION. Among very low birth weight infants with respiratory distress syndrome, the use of bubble continuous positive airway pressure is a potentially better practice that may reduce the use of mechanical ventilation. Although an increase in retinopathy of prematurity was observed in our population, carefully designed randomized, controlled trials will be required to more accurately address the potential risks and benefits of this therapy.
Lessons Learnt from (HIN1)2009 Influenza Pandemic for Preparedness Against Future Pandemics

Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 was relatively mild with less severe disease burdens and social impact. Pandemic (H1N1)pdm09 virus itself was low pathogenic, similar to seasonal flu viruses and different from H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses. Most people had acquired immunity to Spanish flu or former seasonal H1N1 flu viruses, which was cross-protective, in part, against H1N1pdm09 virus. The pandemic started in the North America, where US CDC detected and identified the causative virus rapidly, sharing information with WHO to take immediate responses. Most countries had been prepared, more or less, against a possible pandemic by H5N1. H1N1pdm09 virus hardly underwent antigenic drift and the pandemic vaccine remained matched and effective. The virus was susceptible to neuraminidase inhibitors and drug-resistant viruses did not spread, unlike former seasonal H1N1 virus during 2007-2009. The pandemic virus did not increase the pathogenicity, unlike Spanish flu in 1918/19. Finally, disease burdens and social impact remained far below previous assumptions against a possible H5N1 pandemic. On the other hand, pandemic vaccine production and supply were delayed and insufficient and much confusion occurred due to misleading by health authorities and media. It appeared clear that implementation of pandemic preparedness plans had been suboptimal in many settings. During the pandemic (H1N1)2009, H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza continued to spread in several areas causing human infections. WHO is keeping its pandemic alert level Phase 3. Both H1N1pdm09 and H5N1 viruses were shown to infect pigs in China and Indonesia and therefore, gene reassortment between the viruses may occur in pigs or humans. Risk of an H5 pandemic still remains or is increasing, which will cause extremely heavy disease burdens and social disruptions. We should also learn much from the devastating earthquakes and tsunami and the resultant nuclear power plant accident, which occurred at much severer levels far beyond the government’s “optimistic assumptions”, bases for the suboptimal preparedness. The worst thing we can do is not prepare for a worst case scenario and think it will not happen. We must be prepared against a worst-case scenario of pandemic influenza caused by a highly pathogenic virus.