cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nanoparticle formulations that allow for sustained delivery and brain targeting of the neuropeptide oxytocin

Abstract Oxytocin is a promising candidate for the treatment of social-deficit disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, but oxytocin cannot readily pass the blood-brain barrier. Moreover, oxytocin requires frequent dosing as it is rapidly metabolized in blood. We fabricated four polymeric nanoparticle formulations using poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) or bovine serum albumin (BSA) as the base material. In order to target them to the brain, we then conjugated the materials to either transferrin or rabies virus glycoprotein (RVG) as targeting ligands. The formulations were characterized in vitro for size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, and release profiles. All formulations showed slightly negative charges and sizes ranging from 100 to 278 nm in diameter, with RVG-conjugated BSA nanoparticles exhibiting the smallest sizes. No formulation was found to be immunogenic or cytotoxic. The encapsulation efficiency was ≥75% for all nanoparticle formulations. Release studies demonstrated that BSA nanoparticle formulation exhibited a faster initial burst of release compared to PLGA particles, in addition to later sustained release. This initial burst release would be favorable for clinical dosing as therapeutic effects could be quickly established, especially in combination with additional sustained release to maintain the therapeutic effects. Our size and release profile data indicate that RVG-conjugated BSA nanoparticles are the most favorable formulation for brain delivery of oxytocin.
Data Mining in Healthcare

The data mining has played a significant role in the healthcare industry because of its descriptive and predictive power. It has been used in predicting various types of diseases. The data mining helps in planning healthcare activities and reducing the number of inpatients in the hospital. It can also be used for decision-making at different levels of the healthcare sector. This paper provides a brief introduction to data mining and its applications in the healthcare industry.
Small non-coding RNA expression in mouse nephrogenic mesenchymal progenitors.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that are essential for the regulation of gene expression and play critical roles in human health and disease. Here we present comprehensive miRNA profiling data for mouse nephrogenic mesenchymal progenitors, a population of cells enriched for nephron progenitors that give rise to most cell-types of the nephron, the functional unit of the kidney. We describe a miRNA expression in nephrogenic mesenchymal progenitors, with 162 miRNAs differentially expressed in progenitors when compared to whole kidney. We also annotated 49 novel miRNAs in the developing kidney and experimentally validated 4 of them. Our data are available as a public resource, so that it can be integrated into future studies and analyzed in the context of other functional and epigenomic data in kidney development. Specifically, it will be useful in the effort to shed light on molecular mechanisms underlying processes essential for normal kidney development, like nephron progenitor specification, self-renewal and differentiation. Machine-accessible metadata file describing the reported data (ISA-Tab format)
Sex differences in hepatic one-carbon metabolism

There are large differences between men and women of child-bearing age in the expression level of 5 key enzymes in one-carbon metabolism almost certainly caused by the sex hormones. These male-female differences in one-carbon metabolism are greatly accentuated during pregnancy. Thus, understanding the origin and consequences of sex differences in one-carbon metabolism is important for precision medicine. We have created a mathematical model of hepatic one-carbon metabolism based on the underlying physiology and biochemistry. We use the model to investigate the consequences of sex differences in gene expression. We give a mechanistic understanding of observed concentration differences in one-carbon metabolism and explain why women have lower S-andenosylmethionine, lower homocysteine, and higher choline and betaine. We give a new explanation of the well known phenomenon that folate supplementation lowers homocysteine and we show how to use the model to investigate the effects of vitamin deficiencies, gene polymorphisms, and nutrient input changes. Our model of hepatic one-carbon metabolism is a useful platform for investigating the mechanistic reasons that underlie known associations between metabolites. In particular, we explain how gene expression differences lead to metabolic differences between males and females.
Optical Micro Imaging Technologies for Biomedicine

We present recent developments of (1) a super-achromatic monolithic OCT microprobe for intraluminal imaging of tissue microanatomies and (2) a scanning fiber-optic nonlinear endomicroscope for in-vivo imaging of tissue histology. Representative applications will also be discussed.
Scotopic contour and shape discrimination using radial frequency patterns

Radial frequency (RF) patterns are valuable tools for investigations of contour integration and shape discrimination. Under photopic conditions, healthy observers can detect deformations from circularity in RF patterns as small as 3 seconds of arc. Such fine discrimination may be facilitated by cortical curvature detectors or global shape-detecting mechanisms that favor a closed contour. Rods make up 95% of photoreceptors in the retina, but we know very little about how spatial information is processed by rod-mediated pathways. We measured scotopic radial deformation discrimination using both full and partly occluded RF pattern stimuli. We found radial deformation thresholds of around 2-3 minutes of arc for stimuli with a wide range of radii and RFs. When parts of the stimulus were occluded, scotopic thresholds improved up to the point that three or four cycles of modulation were visible; no further improvement occurred with the addition of more visible cycles. When only one to three cycles were visible, an increase in curvature per cycle became important, allowing observers to detect smaller deformations from circularity. Our results indicate that the scotopic radial deformation thresholds for the stimuli tested are not dependent on global circularity cues but are instead mediated by local curvature cues.
Early detection of multiorgan light-chain amyloidosis by whole-body 18F-florbetapir PET/CT

Immunoglobulin light-chain (AL) amyloidosis affects multiple systemic organs. However, determination of the precise extent of organ involvement remains challenging. Targeted amyloid imaging with 18F-florbetapir PET/CT offers the potential to detect AL deposits in multiple organs. The primary aim of this study was to determine the distribution and frequency of AL deposits in the various organs of subjects with systemic AL amyloidosis using 18F-florbetapir PET/CT. Methods: This prospective study included 40 subjects with biopsy-proven AL amyloidosis including active AL amyloidosis (n = 30) or AL amyloidosis in hematologic remission for more than 1 y (n = 10). All subjects underwent 18F-florbetapir PET/CT, skull base to below the kidney scan field, from 60 to 90 min after injection of radiotracer. Volume-of-interest measurements of SUVmax were obtained using Hermes software for the parotid gland, tongue, thyroid, lung, gastric wall, pancreas, spleen, kidney, muscle, abdominal fat, lower thoracic spine, vertebral body, and humeral head. Uptake in each organ was visually compared with that in spine bone marrow. An SUVmax of at least 2.5 was considered abnormal in all organs other than the liver. Results: Compared with the international consensus definition of organ involvement, 18F-florbetapir PET/CT identified amyloid deposits in substantially higher percentages of subjects for several organ systems, including parotid gland (50% vs. 3%), tongue (53% vs. 10%), and lung (35% vs. 10%). In several organ systems, including kidney (13% vs. 28%) and abdominal wall fat (10% vs. 13%), PET identified involvement in fewer subjects than did international consensus. Quantitative analysis of 18F-florbetapir PET/CT revealed more frequent organ involvement than did visual analysis in the tongue, thyroid, lung, pancreas, kidney, muscle, and humeral head. Extensive organ amyloid deposits were observed in active AL as well as in AL remission cohorts, and in both cardiac and noncardiac AL cohorts. Conclusion:18F-florbetapir PET/CT detected widespread organ amyloid deposition in subjects with both active AL and AL hematologic remission. In most instances, amyloid deposits in the various organs were not associated with clinical symptoms and, thus, were unrecognized. Early recognition of systemic organ involvement may help tailor treatment, and noninvasive monitoring of organ-level disease may guide management with novel fibril-resorbing therapies.
Association of Social Media Presence with Online Physician Ratings and Surgical Volume Among California Urologists: Observational Study.

Background Urologists are increasingly using various forms of social media to promote their professional practice and attract patients. Currently, the association of social media on a urologists' practice is unknown. Objectives We aimed to determine whether social media presence is associated with higher online physician ratings and surgical volume among California urologists. Methods We sampled 195 California urologists who were rated on the ProPublica Surgeon Scorecard website. We obtained information on professional use of online social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, blog, and YouTube) in 2014 and defined social media presence as a binary variable (yes/no) for use of an individual platform or any platform. We collected data on online physician ratings across websites (Yelp, Healthgrades, Vitals, RateMD, and UCompareHealthcare) and calculated the mean physician ratings across all websites as an average weighted by the number of reviews. We then collected data on surgical volume for radical prostatectomy from the ProPublica Surgeon Scorecard website. We used multivariable linear regression to determine the association of social media presence with physician ratings and surgical volume. Results Among our sample of 195 urologists, 62 (32%) were active on some form of social media. Social media presence on any platform was associated with a slightly higher mean physician rating (β coefficient: .3; 95% CI 0.03-0.5; P=.05). However, only YouTube was associated with higher physician ratings (β coefficient: .3; 95% CI 0.2-0.5; P=.04). Social media presence on YouTube was strongly associated with increased radical prostatectomy volume (β coefficient: 7.4; 95% CI 0.3-14.5; P=.04). Social media presence on any platform was associated with increased radical prostatectomy volume (β coefficient: 7.1; 95% CI -0.7 to 14.2; P=.05). Conclusions Urologists' use of social media, especially YouTube, is associated with a modest increase in physician ratings and prostatectomy volume. Although a majority of urologists are not currently active on social media, patients may be more inclined to endorse and choose subspecialist urologists who post videos of their surgical technique.
Family Can Hurt You the Most: Examining Perpetrators in Multiple Casualty Events

Abstract Introduction Recently, multiple-homicide events, particularly mass shootings, have become a focus of media attention. We hypothesize that many multiple homicides are related to domestic conflict and suicidality. Materials and methods We analyzed multiple-homicide events (involving two or more victims) in the National Violent Death Reporting System from 2003 to 2015, including those that were followed by suicide of the perpetrator. We characterized circumstances of these events and compared victims with those found in single-homicide events. Results We identified 2425 multiple-victim incidents involving a total of 5424 homicide victims (9.3% of all homicide victims in National Violent Death Reporting System). Of these events, 14.1% (n = 341) were homicides followed by suicide of the perpetrator. Many multiple homicides involved intimate partners or family members of the victims (n = 741, 30.6%). Few of these events were related specifically to a mental health crisis (n = 39, 2.3%), resulting in the deaths of multiple strangers. Even in mass homicide events (more than four victims), many involved the death of an intimate partner or family member of the perpetrator (n = 14/31, 45.2%). Risk of homicide-suicide increased as the number of victims in the incident increased. Conclusions In our examination of multiple-homicide events, we found that many involve the death of the intimate partner and/or family members of the perpetrator, even for events with more than four victims. Although the scenario of a perpetrator with mental health issues going on a “shooting rampage” and murdering multiple strangers is commonly invoked in mass homicide incidents, it is rare overall.
An Evaluation of a Novel Medical Device Versus Standard Interventions in the Treatment of Tension Pneumothorax in a Swine Model (Sus scrofa).

INTRODUCTION Tension pneumothorax is a common cause of preventable death in trauma. Needle decompression is the traditional first-line intervention but has high failure rates. We sought to evaluate the effectiveness and expedience of needle thoracostomy, surgical tube thoracostomy, and Reactor™ thoracostomy - a novel spring-loaded trocar insertion device. MATERIALS AND METHODS Yorkshire swine underwent controlled thoracic insufflation to create tension pneumothorax physiology for device comparison. Additional experiments were performed by increasing insufflation pressures to achieve pulseless electrical activity. Intervention was randomized to needle thoracostomy (14 gauge), tube thoracostomy (32Fr), or Reactor™ thoracostomy (36Fr). Air leak was simulated throughout intervention with 40-80 mL/kg/min insufflation. Intrathoracic pressure monitoring and hemodynamic parameters were obtained at 1 and 5 minutes. RESULTS Tension physiology and tension-induced pulseless electrical activity were created in all iterations. Needle thoracostomy (n = 28) was faster at 7.04 ± 3.04 seconds than both Reactor thoracostomy (n = 32), 11.63 ± 5.30 (p < 0.05) and tube thoracostomy (n = 32), 27.06 ± 10.73 (p < 0.01); however, Reactor™ thoracostomy was faster than tube thoracostomy (p < 0.001). Physiological decompression was achieved in all patients treated with Reactor™ and tube thoracostomy, but only 14% of needle thoracostomy. Cardiac recovery to complete physiologic baseline occurred in only 21% (6/28) of those treated with needle thoracostomy whereas Reactor™ or tube thoracostomy demonstrated 88% (28/32) and 94% (30/32) response rates. When combined, needle thoracostomy successfully treated tension pneumothorax in only 4% (1/28) of subjects as compared to 88% (28/32) with Reactor™ thoracostomy and 94% (30/32) with tube thoracostomy (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Needle thoracostomy provides a rapid intervention for tension pneumothorax, but is associated with unacceptably high failure rates. Reactor™ thoracostomy was effective, expedient, and may provide a useful and technically simpler first-line treatment for tension pneumothorax or tension-induced pulseless electrical activity.
Multidimensional Determinants of Traditional and Nontraditional Career Aspirations for Mathematically Talented Female Adolescents.

In order to achieve greater understanding of the career aspirations of mathematically talented female adolescents, five career relevant dimensions, SDS summary scores, and a multidimensional composite derived from the five career relevant dimensions were tested in order to determine their relative effectiveness in discriminating among six career aspiration groups. Of the five career relevant dimensions, the self perception of ability dimension proved to be most effective in discriminating among the math/ science and non-math career aspiration groups. For those working with gifted and talented female adolescents, the self perception of ability dimension appeared as though it might be a most efficient and salient dimension for exploration in the career counseling process. However, since the multidimensional composite accounted for the greatest amount of observed variance, multidimensional models which incorporate career relevant dimensions of particular relevance for women may ultimately offer the greatest ...
Endometriosis Malignant Transformation Review: Rhabdomyosarcoma Arising From an Endometrioma.

Background Endometriosis is a widely known benign disease, but 0.5%-1% of cases are associated with malignancy. It has been linked with ovarian neoplasms, particularly endometrioid and clear cell adenocarcinoma histology. Rhabdomyosarcomas are rarely associated with endometriosis. Case A 35-year-old patient underwent surgical management of endometriomas to optimize infertility treatment. She later developed abdominal pain with rapid recurrence of ovarian masses. This prompted additional surgery with biopsies diagnosing ovarian rhabdomyosarcoma. Retroactive review of pathologic specimens from her prior surgery demonstrated the neoplasm originated from her prior endometrioma. Focal areas suggested possible underlying ovarian adenosarcoma with stromal overgrowth. Discussion The incidence of rhabdomyosarcoma arising from endometriosis is exceedingly rare. The accuracy of diagnosing endometriosis and ruling out neoplasm requires coordinated efforts of a multidisciplinary team, involving radiologists, pathologists, oncologists, and gynecologic surgeons.
Pengaruh Perbedaan Konsentrasi Asam Fosfat Terhadap Karakteristik Fisikokima Gelatin Kulit Ikan Ayam-Ayam (Abalistes Stellaris)

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah mendapatkan karakteristik fisikokimia gelatin dari kulit ikan ayam-ayam. Metode yang digunakan adalah eksperimen dengan menggunakan rancangan acak lengkap (RAL), dengan pra-perlakuan perendaman asam fosfat (konsentrasi: 0,2 M; 0,4 M; dan 0,6 M). Hasil penelitian ini didapatkan bahwa perbedaan pra-perlakuan pada ekstraksi gelatin dari kulit ikan ayam-ayam melalui perendaman asam fosfat dengan konsentrasi 0,2 M, 0,4 M, dan 0,6 M memberikan pengaruh nyata ( P 0,05) terhadap nilai pH, kadar air, kadari protein, dan kadar abu dari gelatin kulit ikan ayam-ayam .
Statistical Mechanics of Freely Fluctuating Two-Dimensional Elastic Crystals

In this paper, some facts related Joel L. Lebowitz are mentioned. In addition, some of the known theory concerning the statistical physics of freely fluctuating two-dimensional crystals subject to a non-linear elastic hamiltonian is described. Particular topics that are discussed include the existence of two-dimensional crystals in relation to the Hohenberg–Mermin–Wagner theorem, the crumpling transition for freely suspended crystalline membranes and the renormalization of elastic moduli. Although much of what is known has been uncovered since the mid-80s, the topic has become of interest once again due to the discovery of graphene and other two-dimensional crystals. The field is vast so it is the aim of this note to describe some of its fundamental properties.
Primary Intraosseous Carcinoma of the Mandible: A Case Report

ABSTRACT Objective: To present a rare case of primary intraosseous carcinoma arising from the mandible and to discuss the ensuing course and the management of the patient. Methods: Design: Case Report Setting: General Tertiary Government Training Hospital Patient: One Result: A 56-year-old man consulted for a right mandibular mass of 4 months that started as a small bony swelling which gradually increased to its present size of 8 x 6 cm. Incisional biopsy revealed invasive squamous cell carcinoma and the patient underwent segmental mandibulectomy and bilateral selective neck dissection (levels 1 to 3). Final histopathologic findings revealed squamous cell carcinoma. Conclusion: Primary intraosseous carcinoma of the mandible was diagnosed since there was no overlying mucosal ulceration, other types of odontogenic carcinoma were ruled out, and no other distant primary tumor was noted from the time of examination until six months post-treatment. Keywords: primary intraosseous carcinoma; squamous cell carcinoma; odontogenic tumor; epithelial rest of Malassez; dental lamina
SenCAPTCHA: A Mobile-First CAPTCHA Using Orientation Sensors

CAPTCHAs are used to distinguish between human- and computer-generated (i.e., bot) online traffic. As there is an ever-increasing amount of online traffic from mobile devices, it is necessary to design CAPTCHAs that work well on mobile devices. In this paper, we present SenCAPTCHA, a mobile-first CAPTCHA that leverages the device's orientation sensors. SenCAPTCHA works by showing users an image of an animal and asking them to tilt their device to guide a red ball into the center of that animal's eye. SenCAPTCHA is especially useful for devices with small screen sizes (e.g., smartphones, smartwatches). In this paper, we describe the design of SenCAPTCHA and demonstrate that it is resilient to various machine learning based attacks. We also report on two usability studies of SenCAPTCHA involving a total of 472 participants; our results show that SenCAPTCHA is viewed as an "enjoyable" CAPTCHA and that it is preferred by over half of the participants to other existing CAPTCHA systems.
Using One Dying Regime to Save Another: The Influence of International Drug Conventions on United States’ Cannabis Research

Cannabis reforms are proliferating. A handful of nations have already legalized the drug for recreational purposes, and several more may soon follow suit. These national cannabis reforms are generating bottom up pressure to liberalize the transnational legal order (TLO) for cannabis prohibition, one that involves not only international law, but also domestic law and regulatory practice. Based on a trio of international conventions, this TLO currently requires member states to limit access to marijuana, especially for non-medical or non-scientific purposes. But even as it comes under attack from below, the existing cannabis prohibition TLO may be exerting its own downward pressure on national cannabis policies. This essay uses a timely case study involving the United States’ marijuana research policy to explore the two-way relationship between international law and national cannabis policies in the dynamics of transnational legal ordering. It highlights an overlooked way the international conventions are currently helping to stifle national cannabis reforms, and it discusses the possible ramifications of that top-down pressure for the future of the cannabis prohibition TLO.
DeORFanizing Candida albicans Genes using Coexpression.

ABSTRACT Functional characterization of open reading frames in nonmodel organisms, such as the common opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans, can be labor-intensive. To meet this challenge, we built a comprehensive and unbiased coexpression network for C. albicans, which we call CalCEN, from data collected from 853 RNA sequencing runs from 18 large-scale studies deposited in the NCBI Sequence Read Archive. Retrospectively, CalCEN is highly predictive of known gene function annotations and can be synergistically combined with sequence similarity and interaction networks in Saccharomyces cerevisiae through orthology for additional accuracy in gene function prediction. To prospectively demonstrate the utility of the coexpression network in C. albicans, we predicted the function of underannotated open reading frames (ORFs) and identified CCJ1 as a novel cell cycle regulator in C. albicans. This study provides a tool for future systems biology analyses of gene function in C. albicans. We provide a computational pipeline for building and analyzing the coexpression network and CalCEN itself at http://github.com/momeara/CalCEN. IMPORTANCECandida albicans is a common and deadly fungal pathogen of humans, yet the genome of this organism contains many genes of unknown function. By determining gene function, we can help identify essential genes, new virulence factors, or new regulators of drug resistance, and thereby give new targets for antifungal development. Here, we use information from large-scale RNA sequencing (RNAseq) studies and generate a C. albicans coexpression network (CalCEN) that is robust and able to predict gene function. We demonstrate the utility of this network in both retrospective and prospective testing and use CalCEN to predict a role for C4_06590W/CCJ1 in cell cycle. This tool will allow for a better characterization of underannotated genes in pathogenic yeasts.
Neoliberal and authoritarian updates on U.S. white democracy

This essay synthesizes critical contract theory and radical democratic theory to contest U.S. authoritarianism and U.S. neoliberalism. Theoretically, I argue that radical democratic theory needs cr...
Incidental extraspinal imaging findings on adult EOS full body radiographs: prevalence and clinical importance

The purpose of this study was to review our institutional experience with the EOS machine in order to identify the incidence and clinical significance of incidental extraspinal findings (IESF) in an adult spinal deformity population. Our institutional database was queried for all full-length standing radiographs generated by the EOS machine. Dictations were reviewed and the number of incidental extraspinal findings were classified using a previously described system. All findings related to the spine were excluded. A subset of electronic medical records were reviewed to determine further workup for individual findings of suspected clinical significance. Original database query based on radiology reports returned a total of 1857 EOS studies. Duplicate studies, studies without the entire body, and patients with more than 1 study during the search period were excluded. 503 patient studies (55.5% female, mean age 59-years-old, range 18 to 91-years-old) met inclusion criteria. The overall rate of incidental extraspinal findings in our study was 60.4% (304 findings in 503 patients). Most findings were classified as Minor. The rate of Major and Moderate findings was 4.8%. The final rate of clinically significant incidental extraspinal findings was 0.8% and included 3 presumed metastatic lesions in long bones and 1 pulmonary nodule. To our knowledge this is the first study that reports the rate of incidental extraspinal findings on full body EOS studies. We report a low rate (0.8%) of clinically significant incidental extraspinal findings which is lower than that of CT or MRI. Further research is warranted in comparing EOS and standard radiography.
Computational synthesis of substrates by crystal cleavage

The discovery of substrate materials has been dominated by trial and error, opening the opportunity for a systematic search. We generate bonding networks for materials from the Materials Project and systematically break up to three bonds in the networks for three-dimensional crystals. Successful cleavage reduces the bonding network to two periodic dimensions. We identify 4693 symmetrically unique cleavage surfaces across 2133 bulk crystals, 4626 of which have a maximum Miller index of one. We characterize the likelihood of cleavage by creating monolayers of these surfaces and calculating their thermodynamic stability using density functional theory to discover 3991 potential substrates. Following, we identify distinct trends in the work of cleavage and relate them to bonding in the three-dimensional precursor. We illustrate the potential impact of the substrate database by identifying several improved epitaxial substrates for the transparent conductor BaSnO3. The open-source databases of predicted and commercial substrates are available at MaterialsWeb.org.
Basic Concepts and Principles

In this chapter, we will lead the reader to the most important and fundamental results in disjunctive programming. In order to enable the reader to appreciate the subject matter and to gain better insight into it, we will develop these results from first principles through well known facts. Toward this end, let us commence our discussion with the following well known concept.
Studies on pyridoxine and pyridoxal analogs—I

Abstract The preparation, purification and properties of 3-hydroxypyridine-2-aldehyde, 3-methoxypyridine-2-aldehyde, 3-hydroxypyridine-4-aldehyde, 3-methoxypyridine-4-aldehyde and their derivatives and some new intermediates are reported. The preparation of the thio-semicarbazones of the aldehydes, as potential tuberculostatic agents, and of 3-hydroxy-4-hydroxymethylpyridine and 3-methoxy-4-hydroxymethylpyridine as pyridoxine analogs, are described.
Catalysts Under Pressure

Recent technical advances are enabling catalysts to be studied under reactive conditions. In his Perspective, Campbell highlights such an in situ study by Hansen et al., who show how barium promotes the activity of a ruthenium catalyst that catalyzes the ammonia synthesis reaction. Their approach should be widely applicable to studies of catalysts, promising exciting advances in the next few years in our understanding of catalysis.
Experimental investigation of the synergetic effect produced by agents solving together instances of the euclidean planar travelling salesman problem

The goal of the paper is to identify and confirm the existence of the synergetic effect produced by agents solving together instances of the Euclidean planar travelling salesman problem. The research included the computational experiment in which computation results produced by six implemented A-Teams are analyzed. The reported A-Teams have been built using the JABAT environment. Combinations of five local search procedures, each encoded as an optimizing agent, have been used. The experiment involved instances of the Euclidean planar travelling salesman problem of different sizes. Problem instances have been solved by different A-Teams with different numbers of individuals in the population of solutions stored in the common memory. The research has confirmed that constructing an A-Team from heterogeneous optimizing agents might result in achieving a synergetic effect and thus increasing a quality of the computation results.
Leisure Orientations and Self-Esteem in Women with Low Incomes Who are Overweight

The view that leisure research has been androcentric has precipitated an increased interest in women's leisure. Likewise, recent concerns about socio-cultural diversity have underscored the importa...
Removal of bound carcinogen during DNA repair in nondividing human lymphocytes.

Summary Removal of alkylation products from the DNA of mammalian cells was studied in nondividing human lymphocytes damaged with 7-bromomethylbenz(a)anthracene, a carcinogenic alkylating agent that produces chemically stable products upon reaction with DNA. The reaction of 7-bromomethylbenz(a)anthracene-3H with cells in lymphocyte culture was complete in about 20 min. The unlabeled compound induced unscheduled (repair) DNA synthesis in lymphocytes maintained in hydroxyurea, and this process was complete in about 12 hr. The DNA of cells treated with the radioactive bromo- compound (1 µm) exhibited a 15 to 17% loss of radioactivity in 12 hr, while exposure to a higher concentration of the agent (20 µm) resulted in an 8 to 9% loss of radioactivity. Salmon sperm DNA alkylated by this agent exhibited no detectable loss of radioactivity after heating for 22 hr at 50°. The major sites of attack of 7-bromomethylbenz(a)anthracene on lymphocyte DNA were the amino groups of guanine and adenine. Analysis of DNA isolated from treated lymphocytes at zero time and 12 hr later suggested that the damaged adenine nucleotides were removed more extensively than were the damaged guanine nucleotides and that participation in the cell cycle is not a precondition for removal of bound carcinogen.
The Reagan Revolution in the Network of Law

This paper analyzes the effect of the Rehnquist Court on Supreme Court precedent, using a network of all Court citations to other Supreme Court cases. Network analysis enables a study of the Court's use of precedent that may not be readily visible. We find that the Rehnquist Court has made a dramatic alteration in the network of precedent and, in the process, set the stage for a potentially revolutionary change in the makeup of the law.
Chapter 8 Silicon Polymers and Nanocrystals

Publisher Summary This chapter describes silicon polymers and nanocrystals. Electronic computing and long distance optical communication both depend upon silicon (Si)-based materials—in the first case, elemental Si crystalline wafers, and in the second case, silica optical fibers. These two technologies are extraordinarily powerful and constantly growing in importance. Nevertheless, at present the interconnection between these two technologies is rather awkward and inefficient. Optical signals cannot be directly generated in crystalline Si, which is an indirect gap material. The bandgap luminescence is electric dipole forbidden. The indirect gap nature of crystalline Si (c-Si) is a consequence of translational symmetry. In principle, any effect that breaks translational symmetry makes the transition to be allowed formally. The chapter considers Si materials as function of dimensionality, surface chemistry, and finite nanocrystal size, in order to gain insight into the nature of the luminescence process. Band structure does not include electron-hole interaction, and/or possible change in bond lengths and angles in the excited state. Both these phenomena will influence the nature of luminescence.
Hazards and hazard mitigation techniques for natural gas and hydrogen fueling operations

The 2006 edition of NFPA 52 Vehicular Fuel Systems Code addresses natural gas and hydrogen storage and refueling safety. Specifically, this document addresses the issues of: Gas and liquefied gas storage Vehicle-dispensing operations Gas piping System siting System maintenance This article describes the hazards associated with the operations listed and how the code sets requirements to mitigate these hazards. This document, which was initially issued in 1984, is the first edition of NFPA 52 that addresses hydrogen systems. © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2007
Entering the State: Civil Society Activism and Participatory Governance in Brazil

Participatory governance programs, which institutionalize government—civil society interactions through the promotion of public deliberation and decision making, are being adopted by local governme...
Glassy Cell Carcinoma of the Cervix Revisited

Abstract Objective. Glassy cell carcinoma (GCC) of the cervix has traditionally been characterized as an aggressive histologic subtype with poor outcomes. An earlier series from our institution supported a grim prognostic outlook, demonstrating a survival rate of only 55% in women with stage I disease. We present a comparison of a contemporary series of patients with GCC. Methods. All cases of GCC treated from 1993 to 1999 identified by our tumor registry were reviewed for a variety of clinicopathologic features, treatment strategies, and outcome. Results. A total of 403 cases of invasive cancer of the cervix were identified. There were 22 patients with histologically confirmed GCC, representing only 5.4% of all cervical cancer diagnoses. Patients with GCC had an overall survival of 73% (16/22) and a disease-free survival of 64% (14/22). The incidence of stage I lesions was 64% (14/22). Overall survival of patients with stage I disease was 86% (12/14), with a disease-free survival of 71% (10/14) at a median follow-up of 28.5 months. Seven stage IB lesions were treated with surgery alone, whereas six received adjuvant radiation or chemoradiation following surgery. Two patients in each treatment group recurred, yielding an overall recurrence rate of 29% (4/14). However, of those who recurred with stage I disease, all 4 patients had two or more intermediate risk factors (lymph–vascular space invasion [LVSI], deep tumor invasion, or tumor size greater than 3 cm). Conclusions. Glassy cell carcinoma of the cervix appears to have a better prognosis than previously reported. We observed that intermediate risk histopathologic features identified in squamous cell cohorts are also predictive of a poorer outcome in patients with GCC. Thus, patients with LVSI, deep stromal invasion, and large tumor size are at the highest risk for pelvic relapse and should be candidates for adjuvant treatment.
Origins of planetary magnetism

The magnetic fields of the terrestrial planets are not only interesting in their own right, but are of general geological interest because among other reasons their existence may place important constraints on planetary thermal states and hence evolution. It is now generally accepted that planetary magnetic fields are generated by dynamo action resulting from convection in a rotating, electrically conducting fluid core. However, major uncertainties still exist in our understanding of such processes some 30 years after the core dynamo concept was introduced by E. C. Bullard, W. M. Elsasser, and others. The surprising discovery of lunar magnetism as a result of the Apollo program and the growing body of data which show high paleofield values in meteorites have raised the possibility that some planetary magnetic fields may be due primarily to permanent magnetization acquired early in the body's development. The need for an objective assessment of all the contending sources of planetary magnetism and the need for communication among the highly specialized and diverse groups working in this area resulted in the organization of a topical conference entitled ‘Origins of Planetary Magnetism,’ held at the Lunar and Planetary Institute, Houston, Texas, on November 8–11, 1978. Seventy-four participants from the U.S. and five foreign countries met for 3½ days to promote the assimilation and comparison of the data available on planetary magnetic fields and to examine these data in the light of our knowledge of the earth's field, recent advances in dynamo and other theories, and our knowledge of planetary interiors and their thermal and chemical evolution.
Successful conversion of equine atrial fibrillation using oral flecainide.

Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia affecting performance in horses. Conversion to sinus rhythm carries a good prognosis if no significant underlying cardiac disease is present and horses commonly return to performance at the previous level or above. The drug most commonly used to convert equine atrial fibrillation is quinidine. However, quinidine has the potential for a number of adverse effects including colic, nasal mucosal edema, dyspnea and laminitis. Quinidine also requires administration through a nasogastric tube, as the drug is very bitter and acidic and may cause oral ulcerations if administered PO. Flecainide is an antiarrhythmic agent of Singh-Vaughan Williams class Ic, whereas quinidine belongs to class Ia. Intravenously administered flecainide has been reported to be a safe and effective drug for treatment of induced atrial fibrillation in the horse, with fewer adverse effects compared to quinidine, but has been less effective when administered to horses with naturally occurring atrial fibrillation. The pharmacokinetics of oral flecainide and the oral dosage required to treat equine atrial fibrillation have been determined. To the authors' knowledge, there are no reports describing treatment of equine atrial fibrillation with oral flecainide. This report describes the successful conversion of naturally occurring atrial fibrillation, by means of oral flecainide, in a horse.
Inhibition of Constitutive Signaling of Kaposi's Sarcoma–associated Herpesvirus G Protein–Coupled Receptor by Protein Kinases in Mammalian Cells in Culture

Kaposi's sarcoma–associated herpesvirus (KSHV)/human herpesvirus 8, which is consistently present in tissues of patients with Kaposi's sarcoma and primary effusion lymphomas, contains a gene that encodes a G protein–coupled receptor (KSHV-GPCR). We recently showed that KSHV-GPCR exhibits constitutive signaling via activation of phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C and stimulates cell proliferation and transformation. In this study, we determined whether normal cellular mechanisms could inhibit constitutive signaling by KSHV-GPCR and thereby KSHV-GPCR–stimulated proliferation. We show that coexpression of GPCR-specific kinases (GRKs) and activation of protein kinase C inhibit constitutive signaling by KSHV-GPCR in COS-1 monkey kidney cells and in mouse NIH 3T3 cells. Moreover, GRK-5 but not GRK-2 inhibits KSHV-GPCR–stimulated proliferation of rodent fibroblasts. These data provide evidence that cell regulatory pathways of receptor desensitization may be therapeutic targets in human diseases involving constitutively active receptors.
Effects of drag reducing polymers on initiation of atherosclerosis

Results from two pilot studies using White Carneau pigeons on high cholesterol diets have demonstrated substantial reduction in arterial plaque accumulations when the birds were periodically injected with dilute aqueous solutions of a drag reducing polymer (Separan AP-30) so as to maintain circulating blood concentrations of approximately 60 ppm. Initiation of arterial plaque formation may be fluid-mechanically motivated such that regions subjected to fluid turbulence, rapidly developing boundary layers, and alternate separation and reattachment, arc; the most prone lo attack. Viscoelastic fluid response, as seen in drag reducing media, is known to alter such phenomena. Comparative documentation of plaque deposition in experimental as well as control birds shows significant differences in both the aortas and coronary arteries, at optical magnifications from 20 to 15000X.
Advances in understanding tissue regenerative capacity and mechanisms in animals

Questions about how and why tissue regeneration occurs have captured the attention of countless biologists, biomedical engineers and clinicians. Regenerative capacity differs greatly across organs and organisms, and a range of model systems that use different regenerative strategies and that offer different technical advantages have been studied to understand regeneration. Making use of this range of systems and approaches, recent advances have allowed progress to be made in understanding several key issues that are common to natural regenerative events. These issues include: the determination of regenerative capacity; the importance of stem cells, dedifferentiation and transdifferentiation; how regenerative signals are initiated and targeted; and the mechanisms that control regenerative proliferation and patterning.
Functional Tests for Quantifying Recovery following Carpal Tunnel Surgery

This study considered two computer-controlled tests for quantifying functional deficits in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), known as the Wisconsin Test battery. The gap detection sensory test quantifies dynamic tactile inspection thresholds for areas of the hand innervated by the median nerve. The rapid pinch and release psychomotor test measures the initiation and control of specific muscles innervated by the median nerve motor branch. Subjects were all patients who had undergone carpal tunnel surgical procedures. To date, a total of 30 subjects have been tested pre and post surgery. All subjects underwent a physical examination and nerve conduction studies, completed a symptom survey, and were administered the Wisconsin Test battery prior to surgery. Subjects were tested immediately prior to surgery and again six weeks following surgery. The data indicated that both psychomotor and sensory function for the surgical hands markedly improved postoperatively, whereas the non-surgical hands did not show similar...
Photo-bleaching induced electro-optic polymer modulators with dual driving electrodes operating at 1.55 [micro sign]m wavelength

Electro-optic (EO) polymeric Mach-Zehnder (MZ) modulators with photo-bleaching (PB) induced waveguides and dual driving electrodes operating at 1.55 µm wavelength have been demonstrated. The half-wave voltage of the integrated polymeric modulator was 4.5 V in a push–pull configuration with a 1.5 cm interaction length. The extinction ratio was greater than 20 dB, and the fibre-to-fibre insertion loss was 8 dB for the TM polarisation. The achieved fibre-to-fibre insertion loss and driving voltage are the best, to the authors knowledge, in the reported PB induced MZ EO polymeric modulators.
Resistance, persistence, and drinking: Examining goals of women's refusals of unwanted sexual advances

The expressed goals of women's refusals to unwanted requests for increased intimacy were examined. It was hypothesized that alcohol consumption would influence expressed goals such that intoxicated women would be less likely to express concern for secondary goals (protection of self image, requester image, and relationship) than would sober women. The influence of request type and request persistence was also examined. Although alcohol consumption did not significantly influence the degree to which women expressed the primary (refusing clearly) and secondary goals, request type and request persistence had significant effects. Results are discussed in relation to Alcohol Myopia Theory and the sexual/relational refusal literature.
Both Oligodendrocytes and Astrocytes Develop from Progenitors in the Subventricular Zone of Postnatal .Rat Forebrain

Abstract The developmental fates of subventricular zone (SVZ) cells of the postnatal rat forebrain were determined by retroviral-mediated gene transfer and immunolabeling for glial antigens. A β-galactosidase-containing retrovirus injected stereotactically into the SVZ infected small, immature cells. By 28 days post-injection labeled cells had appeared in both gray and white matter of the ipsilateral hemisphere. White matter contained labeled oligodendrocytes, but few astrocytes, while neocortex and striatum contained both glial types, often appearing in tightly knit clusters. An analysis after simultaneously injecting alkaline phosphatase- and β-galactosidase-containing retroviruses showed that cells in each cortical cluster were related. Most clusters contained a single cell type, but approximately 15% contained both astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. These observations strongly suggest that a single SVZ cell can differentiate into both glial types.
Internet Psycho-Education Programs Improve Outcomes in Youth With Type 1 Diabetes

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of two internet-based psycho-educational programs designed to improve outcomes for youth with type 1 diabetes transitioning to adolescence. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The study was a multisite clinical trial of 320 youth (age 11–14 years; 37% minority; 55% female) randomized to one of two internet-based interventions: TeenCope or Managing Diabetes. Primary outcomes were HbA 1c and quality of life (QOL). Secondary outcomes included coping, self-efficacy, social competence, self-management, and family conflict. Data were collected at baseline and after 3, 6, and 12 months online. Youth were invited to cross over to the other program after 12 months, and follow-up data were collected at 18 months. Analyses were based on mixed models using intent-to-treat and per-protocol procedures. RESULTS Youth in both groups had stable QOL and minimal increases in HbA 1c levels over 12 months, but there were no significant differences between the groups in primary outcomes. After 18 months, youth who completed both programs had lower HbA 1c ( P = 0.04); higher QOL ( P = 0.02), social acceptance ( P = 0.01), and self-efficacy ( P = 0.03) and lower perceived stress ( P = 0.02) and diabetes family conflict ( P = 0.02) compared with those who completed only one program. CONCLUSIONS Internet interventions for youth with type 1 diabetes transitioning to adolescence result in improved outcomes, but completion of both programs was better than only one, suggesting that these youth need both diabetes management education and behavioral interventions. Delivering these programs via the internet represents an efficient way to reach youth and improve outcomes.