cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Heroin-induced Ulcer Mimicking Pyoderma Gangrenosum

Subcutaneous injections of illicit substances may be performed by some patients citing several advantages by the user, and can present to clinic with ulcers that clinically mimic pyoderma gangrenosum. However, it is vital to recognize heroin-induced ulcers and treat urgently to preserve function. Treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach with general medicine, dermatology, plastic surgery, wound care, infectious disease and addiction medicine. We present a patient with lower extremity ulceration due to subcutaneous injection of heroin which resembled PG.
Molecular rhythm alterations in prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens associated with opioid use disorder

Severe and persistent disruptions to sleep and circadian rhythms are common features of people with opioid use disorder (OUD). Preclinical findings suggest altered molecular rhythms in the brain are involved in opioid reward and dependence. However, whether molecular rhythms are disrupted in brains of people with OUD remained an open question, critical to understanding the role of circadian rhythms in opioid addiction. We previously used subjects9 times of death (TOD) as a marker of time of day to investigate transcriptional rhythm alterations in psychiatric disorders. Using TOD and RNA sequencing, we discovered rhythmic transcripts in both the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and nucleus accumbens (NAc), key brain areas involved in opioid addiction, were largely distinct between OUD and unaffected comparison subjects. Further, fewer rhythmic transcripts were identified in DLPFC of OUD subjects compared to unaffected subjects, but nearly double the number of rhythmic transcripts were found in the NAc of OUD subjects. In OUD, rhythmic transcripts in the NAc peaked either in the evening or near sunrise, and were associated with dopamine, opioid, and GABAergic neurotransmission. Co-expression network analysis identified several OUD-specific modules in the NAc, enriched for transcripts involved in the modulation of dopamine and GABA synapses, including glutamatergic signaling and extracellular matrices. Integrative analyses with human GWAS revealed that rhythmic transcripts in DLPFC and NAc were enriched for genomic loci associated with sleep duration and insomnia. Overall, our results connect transcriptional rhythm changes in dopamine, opioid, and GABAergic synaptic signaling in human brain to sleep-related phenotypes and OUD.
Why Is Aducanumab Priced at $56,000 per Patient? Lessons for Drug-Pricing Reform.

Why Is Aducanumab Priced at $56,000 per Patient? Aducanumab’s price can inform the drug-pricing policy debate because it responds to key features of the market environment for physician-administere...
The Road Map For Class Certification Post- Halliburton II

BACKGROUND TO HALLIBURTON II 485 I. THE “UNANIMOUS” HALLIBURTON II DECISION 488 II. WHAT’S NEXT 490 A. Measuring General Efficiency/Impact—Event Studies and Rapidity of Responses 491 B. Price Maintenance/Confirmatory Lies 492 C. Confounding Events 494 D. “Response Coefficients” 495 E. Forward-Casting 496 F. Content Analysis 496 G. “Intent to Induce” Reliance 497 H. Investors’ Reliance on the “Integrity of Management” ........ 498 CONCLUSION—NEW MATH AND THE “UNANIMOUS DECISION” 501
Office Equipment and Computers

Large mainframe computers operate very long hours and are substitutes for conventional office equipment that used to work forty hours a week for the most part. That the statistical procedures used thus far in this study have captured this development is most unlikely, and yet taking account of it in some fashion seems sensible. A service industry that sells computer services of various kinds exists, but computing is not an “industry” as that term has been used. I have constructed a synthetic industry, which could be called the office equipment industry, the capital of which consists of all the privately owned conventional office equipment plus all the privately owned computers in use. Because the computers have constituted an increasing share of this industry total, the average weekly capital hours worked by this synthetic group have shown a substantial increase over the period covered, although the weight of this group, while increasing, is still small. The existence of this synthetic industry, the capital of which is to be found in all conventionally defined industries using computers and office equipment, made it necessary to remove from all conventionally defined industries the estimated value of privately owned computers and other office equipment to avoid double counting in deriving an hours series for the private nonfarm business economy.
The control of eating: is there any function for satiation and satiety?

Abstract: I argue within a Kuhnian framework that the concepts of satiety and satiation evolved from our need to understand the determinants of a meal and to integrate the meal into a larger biological system responsible for the regulation of body weight. This approach has not provided us with a clue as to how to control the increase in food intake responsible for the ubiquitous increase in body weight known as the obesity epidemic. The concept of satiety fails to explain the lack of ability to adjust meal size to changes in energy density and to a host of environmental factors that influence the human eating behavior. Moreover, the fundamental idea that human body weight is regulated may be flawed. I argue that we must enter Kuhn's final stage of revolution in order to provide an answer to the obesity epidemic. I suggest that focusing on the satiety effect of a meal as the unit of analysis for human feeding behavior may be too myopic, that we must view the control of energy intake over longer periods of time in order to gain insight as to how body weight is determined in humans.
Comparison of Monte Carlo Strategies for Radiative Transfer in Participating Media

Abstract A review of various strategies for implementing Monte Carlo analysis of radiative media is presented. Comparisons of the performance (defined as the variance of the results multiplied by the CPU time required for solution) are presented for three common methods used in Monte Carlo solution. Methods of treating complex geometries are also explored and compared, and a ray-tracing technique based on finite-element models of the geometry is presented. The finite-element models allow use of commercial codes for describing complex geometries, and also allow efficient coupling of the Monte Carlo radiative model with other finite-element-based thermal models. The utility and performance of the direct simulation Monte Carlo ray-tracing methods in engineering problems involving realistic properties are examined. Strategies are compared for treating anisotropic scattering distributions, nonuniform temperatures and radiative properties, and spectral property variations. The effects of scattering on ray tracing and the necessary modifications to the algorithms are evaluated, and the performance and accuracy of these algorithms are evaluated and recommendations are suggested. The difficulties in handling inhomogeneous properties and spectrally dependent properties are presented, and some possible approaches are proposed and compared. Monte Carlo strategies for solving radiative transfer in participating media are described for use on parallel processors using different common architectures. An example benchmark problem is carried out to demonstrate the degree of speedup that can be obtained.
Free Will as a Gift from God: A New Compatibilism

Dans le cadre du debat sur le determinisme classique et la predictibilite logique des evenements, l'A. rejette l'incompatibilisme et montre que le determinisme n'exclut pas la volonte libre. Defendant la compatibilite du determinisme avec l'existence de Dieu et la volonte libre, l'A. refute la these de l'incompatibilisme naturaliste selon laquelle les naturalistes ne savent que faire de la volonte libre comme don de Dieu dans un univers deterministe. L'A. montre que l'enchainement logique des actes en fonction des lois de la nature ne contredit pas la possibilite d'agir autrement qui caracterise l'agent comme centre de l'activite creatrice
Acetaldehyde Is a Causal Agent Responsible for Ethanol-Induced Ripening Inhibition in Tomato Fruit

Inhibition of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) fruit ripening by exogenously applied ethanol was shown to be caused by elevated endogenous levels of acetaldehyde (AA). Exposure of excised pericarp discs of mature-green tomato fruit to ethanol or AA vapors produced elevated levels of both compounds in the tissue, but only the levels of AA were associated with ripening inhibition. Ripening inhibition was dependent on both the applied concentration and the duration of exposure. Discs treated with inhibitory levels of AA had levels of ethanol that were elevated but below that associated with inhibition of ripening. The in vivo activity of alcohol dehydrogenase was inhibited 40 to 60% by 4-methylpyrazole (4-MP), a competitive inhibitor of this enzyme. The inhibitory effect of ethanol on ripening was reduced by the simultaneous application of 4-MP. Tissue treated with 4-MP plus AA vapors had higher endogenous levels of AA and ripening was inhibited longer than in tissue without 4-MP. The tissue AA level resulting from ethanol or AA application appears to be the critical determinant of ripening inhibition.
Knowledge Retrieval as Limited Inference

Artificial intelligence reasoning systems commonly employ a knowledge base module that stores a set of facts expressed in a representation language and provides facilities to retrieve these facts. A retriever could range from a simple pattern matcher to a complete logical inference system. In practice, most fall in between these extremes, providing some forms of inference but not others. Unfortunately, most of these retrievers are not precisely defined.
Smart management system of plug-in electric vehicle charging service

This paper presents a software framework of smart management systems of plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) charging services. The proposed management system aims at the economic operation of a micro grid-like public charging facility with multiple on-site renewable energy generations (e.g., rooftop photovoltaic panels). The overall objective is to maximize the charging facility's net revenue by optimizing the day-ahead energy schedule and by controlling the real-time PEV charging process. The user-friendly graphical interface is developed to facilitate the information-directed operations for the charging facility operator. The proposed system can be extended and tailored to economic operations of other microgrid-like systems.
Polypyrrole Films from Aqueous Electrolytes The Effect of Anions upon Order

Thick, 3–14 mil, free‐standing polypyrrole films incorporating a large variety of anion "dopants" were anodically deposited from aqueous electrolytes. Four‐point probe conductivity and x‐ray diffraction measurements were made and compared. Aromatic and very large amphiphilic sulfonate dopants provided the highest conductivities (up to 120 S cm−1), stabilities, mechanical properties, and apparent order. The dodecylbenzenesulfonate system was the most stable, being unaffected by even concentrated aqueous ammonia. A qualitative voltammetric technique which probes the relative order in as‐deposited thin films is introduced.
Role of enteric nerves in immune-mediated changes in protease-activated receptor 2 effects on gut function.

Background Protease-activated receptors (PARs) are expressed on structural and immune cells. Control of initiation, duration, and magnitude of PAR effects is linked to the level of receptor expression, availability of proteases, and the intracellular signal transduction machinery. We investigated nematode infection-induced changes in PAR2 expression and the impact on smooth muscle and epithelial responses to PAR2 agonists. Methods Smooth muscle and epithelial cell function were assessed in wild-type, and IL-4, IL-13 or STAT6 gene-deficient mice following treatment with vehicle, Nippostrongylus brasiliensis or Heligmosomoides polygyrus, or IL-13. The role of enteric nerves was determined using tetrodotoxin to block nerve conduction. Expression of PAR2 was assessed by real-time PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry. Key Results Nematode infection induced a STAT6- and IL-13-dependent up-regulation of PAR2 mRNA expression. The infection-induced hypercontractility to PAR2 agonists required STAT6/IL-13 and was neurally mediated. In contrast, the infection-induced decrease in epithelial secretion to PAR2 agonists was partly dependent on STAT6 and independent of enteric nerves. The hyposecretion was correlated with decreased PAR2 immunofluorescent staining on the apical surface of epithelial cells, but enhanced lamina propria immunostaining for PAR2. Conclusions & Inferences This is the first study to demonstrate an immune regulation of PAR2 expression that impacts both smooth muscle and epithelial cell responses to PAR2 agonists. Differences in responses between smooth muscle and epithelial cells are related to the contribution of enteric nerves. These data provide a mechanism by which activation of PAR2 in immune-based pathologies can induce both transient and long-lasting changes in gut function.
Land Policy and Tenancy in the Prairie States

Thomas Jefferson believed that political democracy could be maintained in the United States only if it were made to rest on the firm foundation of economic democracy. “The small landowners are the most precious part of the State,” he said, contrasting this ideal economy with a congested population in urban centers which would, he feared, threaten democracy because it would be subject to control by agitators and demagogues. He urged the adoption of a policy of cheap land that would attract laborers from abroad and from the eastern cities to the newly developing areas of the West and the South. Thus he proposed to create a nation of farm owners who would be the very warp and woof of democracy.
Theoretical aspects of nucleate pool boiling with dielectric liquids

Direct cooling with inert, dielectric liquids may well become the technique of choice for the thermal management of future electronic systems. Due to the efficiency of phase-change processes and the simplicity of natural circulation, nucleate pool boiling is of great interest for this application. This paper examines the characteristics of vapor bubbles and nucleate pool boiling of the dielectric liquids. The results provide a theoretical foundation for understanding and interpreting the often complex empirical results reported in the literature.
There is a critical need for controlled data to support evidence based communication interventions in individuals with acquired brain injury

This review provides a summary and appraisal commentary on the treatment review by Rispoli, M. J., Machalicek, W., & Lang, R. (2010). Communication interventions for individuals with acquired brain injury. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 13, 141–151. Source of funding and disclosure of interest: No source of funding reported, and the original authors of this research report state that there are no conflicts of interest. Dr. Jeff Sigafoos has had no involvement in editing/reviewing/accepting this commentary, because he is the current editor of the journal in which the original paper was published.
Involvement of Calcium in the Regulation of Serotonin N-Acetyltransferase in Retina

The possible involvement of calcium in the regulation of retinal serotonin N-acetyltransferase (NAT) activity was investigated using eye cups of Xenopus laevis cultured in defined medium. Omitting CaCl2 from the culture medium completely inhibited the dark-dependent increase of NAT activity at night. Approximately 10(-4)-10(-3) M free Ca2+ was found to be required for the maximal increase of NAT activity in the dark. Other divalent cations--Ba2+, Sr2+, and Mn2+--did not substitute for Ca2+. Antagonists of voltage-sensitive calcium channels, including nifedipine, methoxyverapamil (D600), Co2+, and Mg2+, were found to be effective inhibitors of the dark-dependent increase of retinal NAT activity. Trifluoperazine also decreased retinal NAT activity. These studies indicate that the increase of retinal NAT activity in the dark is mediated by a specific Ca2+-dependent process and that Ca2+ influx through voltage-sensitive calcium channels is involved.
155. Impact of Electronic Medical Records on the Provision of Confidential Reproductive Care to Minors: Legal, Practical and Ethical Considerations

questions about a research study scenario where parental consent was not required for adolescent participation. Data analyzed in SPSS, version 19.0. Results:Respondents (n 153)were predominately female (73.2%), white (87.6%), and had a mean age of 39.4 years (SD 10.4). Most respondents were married or living with a partner (68.0%) and had some college (54.3%). Most respondents had at least one 13-17 year old living with them (58.2%). Most respondents reported it was important for adolescents to participate in H.E.R. about driving (84.7%), birth control (84.9%), STIs (88.9%), and sex education (90.2%). Respondents reported whether 14, 15, 16, and 17 year olds should be allowed to participate in H.E.R., with andwithout parental consent, for driving behavior, preventing teen pregnancy, and preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Topics were grouped by age for analysis. Responses were scored from zero (indicating no participation should be allowed) to three (indicating adolescents should be allowed to participate inH.E.R. on all three topics). A significantmean difference in rank was found indicating that as adolescents aged, respondents increasingly agreed that teens should be allowed to participant in H.E.R with parental consent (x2 (3) 28.7, p .001) with mean rank increases from 2.37 at age 14 to 2.60 at age 17. Additionally, a significantmean difference in rankwas found indicating that as adolescents aged, respondents increasingly agreed that teens should be allowed to participant in H.E.R without parental consent (x2 (3) 131.5, p .001)withmean rank increases from2.02 at age 14 to 2.93 at age 17. Respondentswere then given a description of a research study where teen women could participate in an internet-based intervention without parental consent. Given a list of options, respondents wanted to know who would have access to their daughter’s information (75.2%), study conclusions (70.6%), to view the videos (69.9%), and to view the survey questions (65.4%) with the greatest frequency. They least frequently wanted to know reimbursement for participation (28.1%). Conclusions: Responses to perception questions did not significantly vary by respondent demographics. An open ended question about theoretical study participation elicited a range of supportive and unsupportive comments. For adolescents as young as 14; adults support adolescent participation in H.E.R. with and without parental consent. Support increases with older adolescents. Given options, adult respondents express concerns about privacy of information; have an interest in study outcomes and study content; and are least concerned about reimbursement for participation. Sources of Support: Subcontract through CarnegieMellon University with DHHROffice of Adolescent Health (5 TP1AH000040-03-00).
Pericardial Tamponade Masquerading as Septic Shock

A 53-year-old man with steroid dependent rheumatoid arthritis presented with fever and serous articular drainage. Oral antibiotics were initially prescribed. Subsequent hemodynamic instability was attributed to septic shock. Further evaluation revealed a pericardial effusion with tamponade. Pericardiocentesis of purulent fluid promptly corrected the hypotension. Proteus mirabilis was later isolated from both the infected joint and the pericardial fluid. This is the first report of combined Proteus mirabilis septic arthritis and purulent pericarditis. It documents the potential for atypical transmission of Gram-negative pathogens, to the pericardium, in patients with a high likelihood of preexisting pericardial disease. In immunocompromised patients, the typical signs and symptoms of pericarditis may be absent, and the clinical presentation of pericardial tamponade may be misinterpreted as one of septic shock. This case underscores the value of a careful physical examination and proper interpretation of ancillary studies. It further illustrates the importance of initial antibiotic selection and the need for definitive treatment of septic arthritis in immunocompromised patients.
Studies on the formation of ethanol and of pyruvate as its precursor from some di- and tricarbonic compounds in putrefying blood in vitro

Abstract The study carried out on putrefying post-mortem blood under anaerobic conditions at room temperature showed that dicarbonic compounds (glycine, ethanolamine, glycollate and glyoxalate) added in vitro to blood samples cannot be converted to ethanol during putrefaction. Tricarbonic, glucogenic amino acids (alanine, serine and cysteine) also had no influence on pyruvate or ethanol formation. Deamination and transamination of these amino acids is limited by anaerobic conditions. Alanine could be converted to pyruvate in the course of transamination only after addition of exogenous α-oxoglutarate. The experiments reported demonstrate that, despite high transaminase activity in putrefying blood, the conversion of glucogenic amino acids into pyruvate and ethanol under anaerobic conditions is practically impossible, owing to the lack of α-oxoglutarate as acceptor of amino groups.
Deregulated degradation of the cdk inhibitor p27 and malignant transformation.

p27 acts as a critical negative regulator of the cell cycle by inhibiting the activity of cyclin/cdk complexes during G0 and G1. Degradation of p27 is a critical event for the G1/S transition and occurs through ubiquitination by SCF Skp2 and subsequent degradation by the 26S-proteasome. A tumor suppressing function of p27 has been demonstrated in mouse models and studies of human tumors. More recent evidence suggests that Skp2, the specific recognition factor for p27 ubiquitination, has oncogenic properties. This review will focus on the regulation of p27 proteolysis and its consequences for tumorigenesis. © 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
The Effects of a Masturbation Seminar on High School Males' Attitudes, False Beliefs, Guilt, and Behavior

Effects of a single session masturbation seminar en high school males' beliefs, guilt, and behavior regarding masturbation were examined. It was predicted that the treatment group would, as compared to a control group, (a) be more positive in their attitudes toward masturbation in general, (b) have fewer false beliefs about the harmful nature of masturbation (sex myths), (c) have less sex guilt associated with masturbating, and (d) report a greater frequency of masturbation. Results indicated that for the treatment group, attitudes were more positive toward masturbation in general, and there were fewer false beliefs. Negative feelings (e.g., guilt) were not influenced following instruction, nor was masturbatory behavior. These findings provide support for a multivariate construct approach to studying masturbation attitudes and behavior. The present study also offers some support for the inclusion of seminars about adolescent masturbation in similar sex education programs
Contributors to the Decision of Elementary Education Majors To Choose Science as an Academic Concentration.

The purpose of this study was to identify differences between preservice elementary teachers that have demonstrated an interest in science and those who have not. This was accomplished by comparing characteristics of a group of preservice teachers who had declared an academic concentration in science with elementary education majors in general. Specific factors investigated were science locus of control and the past science experiences of these students. All subjects were administered Haury’s (1984)Locus of Control in Science scale to quantify science locus of control orientation. Additionally, extensive information concerning the past science experiences of the subjects was gathered using a questionnaire developed specifically for this study. Results of this study related to the first purpose indicated no significant differences between elementary education majors concentrating in science and those not concentrating in science for science locus of control orientation. Information gathered through the use of the questionnaire revealed many differences between the science concentration and non-science concentration groups. Some of the most meaningful results are as follows: The science concentration group reported more favorable experiences from kindergarten through college: their teachers were more knowledgeable and comfortable teaching science, and provided visuals and activities to help explain concepts; and they received more encouragement in science. Both groups attributed their degree of comfort with science to teacher characteristics, teaching methods, personal characteristics, and the nature of science.
Biohazard determination of crowded living-working spaces: airborne bacteria aboard two naval vessels.

Abstract The level of airborne bacterial contamination aboard two U. S. Navy ships (destroyer class) was evaluated. A recently modernized destroyer (USS Southerland DD-743) and a similar ship with a special protective ventilation system (USS Herbert J. Thomas DD-833) were examined. Under the conditions of the tests, the concentration of airborne bacteria (predominantly saprophytic) was similar in the occupied spaces of both ships and was of low level. With respect to air sanitation, this limited study showed a positive personnel concentration-bacterial concentration relationship. Bacterial aerosols originated from within the ship. The special ventilation system on the USS Thomas provided an interior air environment with bacterial levels somewhat less than those found on the sister ship and comparable with clean air environments, as found in outdoor rural areas or well-cleaned indoor areas.
A 42-year-old man with progressive dyspnea and a rapidly growing mass ☆

Abstract Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH), also known as undifferentiated high grade pleomorphic sarcoma, accounts for 20–24% of all soft tissue sarcomas in the US. Peak incidence is in the fifth and sixth decades of life, with a 2:1 male to female distribution. MFH is usually seen in the soft tissues of the extremity and involvement of the lung is rare. We report a case of pleural MFH in a patient with previous pleuro-pulmonary tuberculosis for which he had a lobectomy.
Role of hyaluronan-mediated CD44 signaling in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma progression and chemoresistance

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is an aggressive malignancy that may involve the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and paranasal sinuses. The mechanisms of tumor progression underlying the clinical behavior of HNSCC remain unclear. CD44 comprises a family of transmembrane receptors that can give rise to multiple CD44 variant isoforms. Hyaluronan (HA), a major extracellular matrix component is the primary ligand for CD44 receptors. HA and CD44 signaling play an important role in HNSCC progression. Several CD44 variant isoforms (including v3-, v6-, and v10-containing isoforms) are associated with advanced disease, possibly through unique growth factor interactions with binding domains in the inserted variant regions of the cytoplasmic domain of CD44. In HNSCC, HA mediates the formation of a complex including CD44 and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) which is overexpressed in a large proportion of HNSCCs. Downstream effectors under EGFR regulation are activated, promoting promote cell growth and tumor survival. The leukemia-associated Rho-guanine nucleotide exchange factor (LARG) also associates with CD44 and EGFR to promote several Ras and RhoA pathway effectors, leading to cell migration, growth, and tumor survival. The secretion of matrix metalloproteinases, necessary for tumor cell invasion, is also regulated by these HA/CD44-mediated pathways. Finally, EGFR-mediated pathways play major roles in the HA/CD44 promotion of chemoresistance in HNSCC. Understanding HA/CD44-mediated signaling pathways may lead to improved treatment of HNSCC.
Obstetrical complications in gestational carrier pregnancies.

Objective To report two cases of severe obstetrical complications in gestational carrier pregnancies and to review our clinical experience and compare our results with those reported in the literature. Design Retrospective analysis. Setting A university IVF program. Patient(s) Women without a functioning uterus or those whose pregnancy would exacerbate a medical condition were enrolled in the gestational carrier pregnancy program. Intervention(s) IVF cycles using oocytes from genetic mothers (or oocyte donors) were performed, with ET to gestational carriers. Main outcome measure(s) Clinical pregnancy rates, obstetrical complications, and neonatal outcomes. Result(s) Ten couples underwent a total of 13 cycles using gestational carriers. A clinical pregnancy rate of 69% (9/13) was achieved. An intrapartum hysterectomy and a late puerperal hysterectomy were required because of severe obstetrical complications. The late puerperal hysterectomy was performed for placenta accreta in a triplet gestation. This carrier sustained multiple cerebral infarcts and blindness. One triplet infant died secondary to a hypoplastic left ventricle and complications of prematurity. A second gestational carrier with a singleton gestation underwent a hysterectomy for a uterine rupture, and the infant has cerebral palsy. Conclusion(s) The past medical and obstetrical histories of potential gestational carriers must be closely scrutinized, and candidates must be thoroughly counseled about the potential risks involved in the procedure.
Multicultural Training and Interdependent and Independent Self‐Construal as Predictors of Universal‐Diverse Orientation Among School Counselors

The study investigated 159 school counselors' previous multicultural workshop experiences and interdependent and independent self-construal (T. M. Singelis, 1994) as predictors of universal-diverse orientation (M. L. Miville et al., 1999). Prior workshops in multicultural counseling and interdependent self-construal were significantly related to universal-diverse orientation (acceptance and awareness of similarities and differences). Implications for counseling, research, and training are discussed.
The effect of placement of tryptophan residues in selected A-chain positions on the biological profile of insulin

In continuation of our efforts to study the solution structure and conformational dynamics of insulin by time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy, we have synthesized and examined the biological activity of five insulin analogues in which selected naturally occurring residues in the A-chain have been replaced with the strongly fluorescent tryptophan residue. The potency of these analogues was evaluated in lipogenesis assays in isolated rat adipocytes, in receptor binding assays using rat liver plasma membranes, and in two cases, in receptor binding assays using adipocytes. [A3 Trp]insulin displays a potency of 3% in receptor binding assays in both liver membranes and in adipocytes, but only 0.06% in lipogenesis assays as compared to porcine insulin. [A10 Trp] insulin displays a potency ofca. 40% andca. 25% in rat liver receptor binding and lipogenesis assays, respectively. [A13 Trp]insulin displays a potency ofca. 39% in rat liver receptor binding assays, but onlyca. 9% in receptor binding in adipocytes; in lipogenesis assays, [A13 Trp] insulin displays a potency ofca. 12%, comparable to its potency in adipocyte receptor binding assays. [A15 Trp]insulin exhibits a potency of 18% and 9% in rat liver receptor binding and lipogenesis assays, respectively. The doubly substituted analogue, [A14 Trp, A19 Trp] insulin, displays a potency ofca. 0.7% in both rat liver receptor binding assays and lipogenesis assays. These data suggest two major conclusions: (1) the A3 and A15 residues lie in sensitive regions in the insulin molecule, and structural modifications at these positions have deleterious effects on biological activity of the hormone; and (2) [A13 Trp]insulin appears to be a unique case in which an insulin analogue exhibits a higher potency when assayed in liver tissue than when assayed in fat cells.
The effect on nursing home resident outcomes of creating a household within a traditional structure.

Objectives: Person-centered care (PCC) is a revolutionary approach to the culture change of elder care that is being adopted by nursing home providers across the nation. One aspect of PCC is the introduction of more self-contained units or households within long term care facilities. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of households on nursing home residents’ physical and psychological outcomes using the Minimum Data Set (MDS) comprehensive assessment data. Design: A retrospective, longitudinal study. Setting: Two care units in a large urban nursing home within the Western New York long term care system.
A framework for technology assessment: Case of a Thai building material manufacturer

Abstract Technology assessment is a critical process in managing technology. It is critical to select the right technologies that would meet the needs of the organization acquiring the technology. This becomes even more challenging in an era of globalization and exponentially increasing emerging technologies. This paper presents a framework to address this challenge and applies it in the case of a building manufacturer in Thailand. The specific problem in this case is the acquisition of green technologies. The technologies evaluated in this paper are thin-film PV, printable ink thin-film PV, and a paint coating to provide additional thermal insulation. Three different perspectives were used to evaluate the technologies: technological, organizational and marketing. Expert judgments were used to evaluate the technologies across these perspectives using multiple criteria. Technology forecasting with patent analysis was used to enhance the decision. As a result, paint insulation was identified as the right technology in this case.
Aliasing in 2n–k fractions in the absence of within group interactions

Abstract It is often known in advance that certain subsets of factors act independently upon a response. Such information can be used to estimational advantage by aliasing low-order effects with such zero interactions. We find the best 2 n–k fractions for the case when the factors can be partitioned into two classes such that non-zero interactions may exist only between classes but not within a class.
A multimedia manual on the World Wide Web for telecommunications equipment

An interactive multimedia educational manual on the Internet through the World Wide Web for commercial optical fiber telecommunications equipment is described. The Telecommunications Laboratory Manual is a vehicle for enhancing engineering education with realistic laboratory or virtual laboratory experience. The manual provides a brief system tutorial, operating instructions, online help, and multimedia experimental demonstrations. It incorporates block diagrams, photographic images, and hypertext links that are mouse clickable, allowing users to access documents or links describing components or processes in any order. An experimental section guides students through laboratory experiences, demonstrates selected equipment characteristics, and provides for direct instructor contact through e-mail. Other remote resources on the Internet are linked to create a global multimedia library. This paper describes the manual, its multimedia design, its use in the curriculum, and its further potential.
Algebraic optimization of data delivery patterns in mobile sensor networks

Database-like query processing over a network of sensors has become an attractive paradigm for building sensor applications. A sensor query is characterized by data streams among participating sensor nodes with possible in-node data filtering or aggregation, and can be described as a tree-like data delivery pattern. The data delivery pattern can also be considered as a query execution plan, or query routing tree. We propose an algebraic optimization of the query routing tree construction and reconfiguration. In particular, we aim at generating query trees that maximize collision-free concurrent data transmissions hence reducing energy and time wastes due to retransmissions. Towards this, we introduce a data transmission algebra (DTA) and apply it for efficient generation of such query trees.
Diverticular abscess presenting as prostate abscess and missed by abdominal CT scan

This is a case report of sigmoid diverticular abscess presenting as prostate abscess. Helical computed tomography (CT) scan revealed the prostate abscess but failed to demonstrate the underlying diverticular abscess. Colonic diverticular abscess can have many unusual presentations, and multiple imaging modalities may be required to reveal the underlying pathology. Abdominal CT scan is not always a definitive and absolute imaging modality for abdominal pain evaluation and cannot supplant clinical judgment in the evaluation of confusing cases.
Conformational and substituent effects in the 19F spectra of C7-C10 straight-chain chlorofluoroalkanes.

One- and two-dimensional fluorine NMR spectra of straight-chain chlorofluoroalkanes having 7–10 carbons were obtained and interpreted. Spectral assignments were based primarily on indirect spin–spin correlations. A scale of chlorine substituent effects was developed. The effects of asymmetric CFCl centers on chemical-shift differences in nearby CF2 groups were analyzed in terms of molecular conformational effects. Spin–spin coupling patterns of CF3 groups were elucidated. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mentoring Phases and Outcomes

Abstract As a relationship, mentorship is theorized to evolve through several stages over time (Kram, 1985). Results from 178 proteges supported Kram's sequence of four mentoring phases: Initiation, Cultivation, Separation, and Redefinition. In addition, proteges in the Initiation phase reported lower levels of mentoring functions than other proteges; however, no significant differences across these phases were found for a variety of job/career outcomes. Data from 82 current proteges and 69 former proteges were compared with those from 93 individuals who reported never having a mentor. The three groups were compared on career outcomes, job satisfaction, organizational socialization, and income measures across a 5-year period. Results showed consistent differences between mentored and nonmentored individuals.
Evidence-based analysis of adjacent segment degeneration and disease after ACDF: a systematic review

Abstract Background context Follow-up studies of patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and interbody fusion (ACDF) have demonstrated varying degrees of radiographic degeneration at adjacent levels, with most cases being asymptomatic (adjacent segment degeneration, ASDeg) and far fewer being symptomatic (adjacent segment disease, ASDz). Controversy remains as to whether these conditions are related to altered biomechanics or represent the natural history of cervical spondylosis at the adjacent segment. Purpose To provide an evidence-based analysis of the peer-reviewed literature on clinical studies of ASDeg and ASDz after ACDF. Study design/setting Systematic review of existing literature. Methods The MEDLINE database was queried for clinical studies reporting ASDeg and/or ASDz after ACDF. Articles written in the English language with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were independently reviewed and analyzed by two authors, and the level of evidence was assigned. Data were pooled to generate summary outcomes and organized by number of levels, technique, and graft/implants. Results Of the 238 articles returned from the MEDLINE database query, 14 met inclusion criteria. An average of 168 patients was enrolled per study with an average follow-up of 106.5 months. Graft materials, cage design, plate fixation system, and length of fusion varied widely. Additionally, no clear standard was seen for radiographic assessment modalities (eg, plain lateral radiograph, flexion-extension radiographs, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging). Validated clinical outcome measures were used in 43% (6/14) of the studies. The average incidence of ASDeg was 47.33% (459.14/970) with a range from 16% to 96%. The frequency-weighted average for ASDz was 11.99% (263.70/2,199) with a range from 1.80% to 36.00%. Follow-up ranged from 24 to 296 months with no reliable commonalities, which prohibited a meta-analysis. Conclusions This review highlights the heterogeneous methodology of the peer-reviewed literature on ASDeg and ASDz after ACDF and the paucity of high-level clinical data published on these conditions. Despite the low level of evidence to define the incidence of ASDeg and ASDz, it is clear that radiographic ASDeg is more common than symptomatic ASDz, indicating that adjacent segment pathology remains subclinical in a large subset of patients. This analysis underscores the need for standardized radiographic measures in the assessment of ASDeg and validated clinical outcome measures for ASDz after ACDF. Consistent methodology and multi-surgeon collaboration may improve the quality of clinical data on ASDeg and ASDz and elucidate the true etiology and incidence of these conditions.
Optic target regulation of NADPH-diaphorase by larval retinal axons in Drosophila

Development of the visual system in Drosophila requires the establishment of precise retinotopic connections between photoreceptors and their synaptic targets in the central nervous system. Nitric oxide (NO) has been implicated as a candidate signal involved in the establishment of retinal projection patterns. In this study the expression of NADPH-diaphorase in the lamina of Drosophila, and by implication nitric oxide synthase (NOS), was investigated in larvae with varying degrees of retinal innervation. NADPH-diaphorase expression was seen to increase in the lamina and eye disk following retinal neuronal death in eye specific pro-apoptotic larvae (pGMR-hid) compared to wild type larvae, and was lower in the lamina in absent or reduced retinal innervation mutants (eyes absent and sine oculis). Retinal innervation is seen to regulate the expression of NADPH-diaphorase expression in target structures.
Nonlinear dispersion in a coupled-resonator optical waveguide

The propagation of an optical pulse in a coupled-resonator optical waveguide may be calculated nonperturbatively to all orders of dispersion, in the conventional tight-binding approximation, even though the dispersion relationship is nonlinear. Working in this framework, we discuss limits of the physical parameters and approximations to the exact formulation that highlight the conditions under which pulse distortion can be minimized. The results are fundamental to the design of coupled-resonator optical waveguides and are also relevant to other applications of the tight-binding method.
Regional Test-Retest Variability of Confocal Scanning Laser Tomography

Purpose To determine the regional differences in the test-retest variability of topographic measurements of the optic nerve head obtained with a confocal scanning laser retina tomograph. Methods Three 10-degree topographic images centered on the optic disk of 20 individuals (20 eyes), five normal subjects, seven glaucoma suspects, and eight glaucoma patients, were acquired and averaged. For each eye, the standard deviation of the mean height at each pixel was calculated from the three images and displayed as a gray scale map, which represents regional test-retest variability. The standard deviation of the mean height of the eight surrounding pixels of each pixel was calculated and plotted as a gray scale map, which represents regional steepness. Results The variability maps and steepness maps showed close correspondence in all eyes. Regions of high steepness had high variability ( r = .31; P Conclusions The regional variability of topographic measurements made with the confocal scanning laser tomograph correlates with the steepness of the corresponding region and is highest at the edge of the optic disk cup and along vessels. Because of their high test-retest variability, these steep areas may not be the best locations to follow up patients for progressive glaucomatous damage.
Exercise Performance and Chronotropic Response in Heart Failure Patients With Implantable Left Ventricular Assist Devices

During metabolic stress testing, 9 of 20 patients with left ventricular assist devices exhibited a lag in peak device rate by < or = 85% of peak native heart rate (group I), with peak device rates of 118 +/- 9 beats/min compared with group II, in which peak device rate nearly equaled peak native rates. Peak systolic blood pressure was significantly greater in group II than group I, but there was no significant difference in peak oxygen consumption, anaerobic threshold, or peak flows.
Regulation of colostrogenesis in cattle

Abstract The prepartum transfer of immunoglobulins from maternal circulation into mammary secretions, i.e., colostrogenesis, is a distinct stage of mammary gland development. Colostrogenesis is clearly regulated in part by lactogenic hormones. Estrogen and progesterone are necessary for initiation of IgG1 transfer into colostrum. Recent work suggests that down regulation of IgG1 receptor activity constitutes a previously unrecognized phase of differentiation which is controlled by prolactin. Like most aspects of mammary function, there is clear evidence that colostrogenesis is affected by local mechanisms within the mammary gland as well. To more thoroughly investigate mechanisms controlling colostrogenesis, methods are needed to evaluate the molecular regulation of IgG1 receptor expression. Recently, the bovine gene for this receptor has been cloned and sequenced. Efforts are underway to confirm that the cloned gene encodes the authentic mammary IgG1 receptor expressed in vivo, and to relate published studies in other species to the in vivo identification, function, and hormonal regulation of this putative bovine receptor.
Nerve Growth Factor Influences the Distribution of Sympathetic Sprouting into the Hippocampal Formation by Implanted Superior Cervical Ganglia

Abstract Following cholinergic denervation of the hippocampal formation, peripheral sympathetic fibers from the superior cervical ganglion (SCG) sprout into hippocampal tissue. The molecular mechanism controlling this process is unknown, although a role by trophic factors seems likely. In the present study, neonatal SCG were used as biological probes to investigate the association between NGF-immunoreactive regions in the hippocampal formation and areas innervated by regrowing sympathetic fibers. Cholinergic deafferentation of the hippocampal formation was achieved by a fimbriafornix transection and neonatal SCG were placed into the lesion cavity, abutting the rostral pole of the hippocampus. At 16 days following ganglia transplantation, NGF immunoreactivity within the hippocampal formation appeared indistinguishable from unlesioned controls and was localized within the mossy fiber region of the dentate gyrus and CA3 and CA2 hippocampal subfields. Sympathetic innervation, revealed in adjacent sections by dopamine β-hydroxylase or p75LNGFR immunoreactivity, was also restricted primarily to the mossy fiber region. Ablation of the entorhinal cortex at the time of transplantation resulted in the appearance of an additional discrete band of NGF immunoreactivity within the outer molecular layer of the dentate gyrus. In animals receiving an entorhinal lesion concurrent with the SCG transplant, sympathetic fibers were observed not only within the mossy fiber region but also within the outer molecular layer of the dentate gyrus where the lesion-induced NGF immunoreactivity appeared. These results support the hypothesis that topographic distributions of NGF may be used in the hippocampal formation to define terminal fields for sprouting NGF-sensitive neuronal populations.