cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Total serum cholesterol levels and mortality risk as a function of age. A report based on the Framingham data.

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between serum cholesterol level and all-cause, coronary heart disease (CHD), and non-CHD mortality as a function of age. Methods: The data source was the biennial examination data from 1948 through 1980 for the 5209 men and women enrolled in the Framingham Heart Study. Age-specific analyses by the Cox proportional hazards regression model were performed of survival subsequent to ages 40, 50, 60, 70, and 80 years for all subjects enrolled and alive at each of the stated ages. Complementary models were studied that used high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, or total cholesterol level as predictors of survival subsequent to the examination at which lipoprotein subfractions were determined (1968 through 1973). Results: The relationship between total cholesterol level and all-cause mortality was positive (ie, higher cholesterol level associated with higher mortality) at age 40 years, negative at age 80 years, and negligible at ages 50 to 70 years. The relationship with CHD mortality was significantly positive at ages 40, 50, and 60 years but attenuated with age until the relationship was positive, but not significant, at age 70 years and negative, but not significant, at age 80 years. Results for the relationship between low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and mortality help explain these findings. Non-CHD mortality was significantly negatively related to cholesterol level for ages 50 years and above. The negative results in the oldest age group for all-cause and CHD mortality appeared to be due to a negative relationship with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels rather than the protective effect of high high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Similar results from several modified analyses make low cholesterol level due to severe illness an unlikely explanation for our results. Conclusions: Physicians should be cautious about initiating cholesterol-lowering treatment in men and women above 65 to 70 years of age. Only randomized clinical trials in older people can settle the debate over the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of lipid-lowering interventions for reducing mortality and morbidity in this population. (Arch Intern Med. 1993;153:1065-1073)
MetNet Online: a novel integrated resource for plant systems biology

Background Plants are important as foods, pharmaceuticals, biorenewable chemicals, fuel resources, bioremediation tools and general tools for recombinant technology. The study of plant biological pathways is advanced by easy access to integrated data sources. Today, various plant data sources are scattered throughout the web, making it increasingly complicated to build comprehensive datasets.
Brain catecholamines and memory modulation: effects of footshock, amygdala implantation, and stimulation.

The results of previous studies indicate that the extent of a transient decline in brain norepinephrine (NE) levels shortly after training and administration of any of several memory modulating treatments is correlated with later retention performance. The present experiment assessed such changes after one-trial inhibitory (passive) avoidance training and, in addition, measured concentration changes in 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG), the major metabolite of brain NE, as well as dopamine (DA) and epinephrine (EPI) levels. The results indicate that the decreases in brain NE after footshock are accompanied by an increase in MHPG, thus providing additional evidence that brain NE is released after training. DA levels were unchanged after training; brainstem EPI levels increased after the training footshock, but forebrain EPI levels were unchanged. A second experiment examined brain catecholamine levels in animals which received post-training electrical stimulation of the amygdala. The findings of this experiment indicate that the amygdala damage which accompanies electrode implantation apparently results in a chronic change in whole brain NE levels and metabolism. After amygdala implantation, NE concentrations in both brainstem and forebrain samples were reduced by 20% and MHPG was increased by 22–34%. Furthermore, NE levels were not responsive to training in implanted animals. Thus, brain NE levels after training were not predictive of retention performance in amygdala-implanted or -stimulated animals. However, the significance of such findings for understanding the possible role of central NE in memory storage is complicated by the severe modification of the dynamics of brain aminergic systems in animals bearing amygdala electrodes.
A Search for Planetary Transits of the Star HD 187123 by Spot Filter CCD Differential Photometry

A novel method for performing high precision, time series CCD differential photometry of bright stars using a spot filter, is demonstrated. Results for several nights of observing of the 51 Pegasi b-type planet bearing star HD 187123 are presented. Photometric precision of 0.0015 - 0.0023 magnitudes is achieved. No transits are observed at the epochs predicted from the radial velocity observation. If the planet orbiting HD 187123 at 0.0415 AU is an inflated Jupiter similar in radius to HD 209458b it would have been detected at the greater than 6(sigma), level if the orbital inclination is near 90 degrees and at the greater than 3(sigma), level if the orbital inclination is as small as 82.7 degrees.
Development of axonal arbors of layer 6 pyramidal neurons in ferret primary visual cortex.

We followed the development of axonal arbors of layer 6 pyramidal neurons in ferret striate cortex to determine whether early developing axon collaterals are formed specifically in the correct target layers from the outset or achieve their adult specificity by the elimination of initially exuberant projections. These neurons were chosen for study because they are amongst the first to be generated in the developing ferret's striate cortex, and, in mature animals, these cells have axonal arbors that are highly specific for layer 4 and to a lesser extent layers 2/3 but have few collateral branches in layer 5. The axonal arbors of individual layer 6 pyramidal neurons were reconstructed following labeling in living slices prepared from the striate cortex of ferrets aged 13–35 days postnatal (P13–35). At the earliest ages (P13–15), axonal arbors consisted of a simple axon extending from the base of the cell body into the subplate or white matter and usually forming a few collateral branches but never ascending into layer 5. By P19–20, about one-half of the cells had extended axon collaterals into layer 5 or higher, and these already appeared to branch preferentially in layer 4. All of the cells from older animals had substantial axonal arbors in layers 2–4. By P26–28, there were approximately ten times as many axonal branches in layer 4 as in layer 5. Between P26–28 and P35, there was no significant change in the number of branches in layer 5, but the numbers of both branches and of axon collateral terminations in layer 4 approximately doubled. Thus, the extent of axonal arborization in layer 4 increases dramatically between P13 and P35, and growth is highly specific for correct target layers, with few branches formed in layer 5. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Metal-Ceramic Interphase Interfaces: Preparation and Structural Characterization

The earliest stages of epitaxy between metals and ceramics have been characterized using a novel transmission electron microscope experiment. Metal particles were deposited onto ceramic substrates which were previously thinned to electron transparency. Illustrations of epitactic relations, the influence of surface defects on particle nucleation and the growth of metal particles on single-crystal ceramic substrates are provided for the Cu / A1 2 O 3 , W / β-SiC and Cu / MgO systems.
A Summary Report of the Cost-Effectiveness of the Profession and Practice of Marriage and Family Therapy

This purpose of this paper is to provide a summary of the cost-effectiveness research for the profession and practice of marriage and family therapy. Studies based on four sources of data were considered: (1) a western United States HMO covering 180,000 subscribers; (2) the Kansas State Medicaid system with over 300,000 beneficiaries; (3) Cigna, a large Unites States health insurance benefits management company with more than nine million subscribers; and (4) a marriage and family therapy training clinic in the western United States serving approximately 300 individuals and families a year. Results from the studies support the potential for a medical offset effect after couple or family therapy, with the largest reduction occurring for high utilizers of health care. The studies also show that covering family therapy as a treatment option and marriage and family therapists as a provider group is not associated with significantly higher treatment costs. An application of cost-effectiveness methodology to medical family therapy is also considered.
Neurons recorded from pediatric epilepsy surgery patients with cortical dysplasia.

Summary: Purpose: Cortical dysplasia (CD) is a common pathological substrate in patients with early-onset childhood epilepsy. In CD tissue, little is known about the mechanisms responsible for cellular hyperexcitability. In this study, we report initial electrophysiological and morphological observations from normal and dysmorphic cells in pediatric CD patients. Methods: Neocortical “most” and “least” epileptogenic areas were sampled based on neuroimaging and electrocorticography from 15 CD patients (ages 0.3 to 14 years). Whole-cell voltage clamp recordings combined with infrared videomicroscopy sampled abnormal cells (cytomegalic neurons, cells with bifurcated dendrites, disoriented pyramidal cells, etc.) compared with normal-appearing neurons from the same patient. Cells were filled with biocytin, and adjacent tissue blocks were stained for neuronal and glial markers. Results: About 15% of the 161 recorded cells were abnormal in appearance. Abnormal cells showed electrophysiological irregularities ranging from intrinsic cellular hyperexcitability to hyposensitivity after application of ionotropic receptor agonists. Other findings included increased excitatory postsynaptic currents and alterations in γ-aminobutyric acid reversal potentials. Conclusions: In pediatric CD tissue, these preliminary results indicate that abnormal-appearing cells showed abnormalities in electrophysiological measures compared with normal-appearing neurons. The abnormalities varied from hyperexcitability to hypoexcitability. More detailed results and conclusions will be forthcoming as additional patient material is analyzed.
Probing enzyme quaternary structure by combinatorial mutagenesis and selection

Genetic selection provides an effective way to obtain active catalysts from a diverse population of protein variants. We have used this tool to investigate the role of loop sequences in determining the quaternary structure of a domain-swapped enzyme. By inserting random loops of four to seven residues into a dimeric chorismate mutase and selecting for functional variants by genetic complementation, we have obtained and characterized both monomeric and hexameric enzymes that retain considerable catalytic activity. The low percentage of active proteins recovered from these selection experiments indicates that relatively few loop sequences permit a change in quaternary structure without affecting active site structure. The results of our experiments suggest further that protein stability can be an important driving force in the evolution of oligomeric proteins.
An analyst's experience working in a skilled nursing facility: a case study.

With the closing of long-term psychiatric facilities, no alternative social institution has arisen to treat those persons whose chronic mental illness makes self-care impossible. This paper explores the typical paths to placement in a skilled nursing facility or nursing home and the author’s experience in working with this population using the principles and techniques of interpersonal psychoanalysis. She presents several case examples and explicates both the analyst’s and the patient’s transference. The author discusses the difficulties inherent in creating an analytic space in such a setting and working outside of the usual psychoanalytic frame.
Returns on Business-to-Business Relationship Marketing Investments: Strategies for Leveraging Profits

Firms invest heavily in different types of business-to-business relationship marketing activities in the belief that such programs bolster their bottom line. In this study, we develop and test a conceptual model that links customer-specific relationship marketing investments to short-term, customer-specific financial outcomes. Data from a matched set of 313 business customers covered by 143 salespeople of 34 selling firms indicate that investments in social relationship marketing pay off handsomely, financial relationship marketing investments do not, and structural relationship marketing investments are economically viable for customers serviced frequently. We conceptualize relationship marketing in a context involving nested participants (customers, salespeople, selling firms) and employ a hierarchical linear modeling approach to account for observations that are not independent. Across the three hierarchical levels, the impact of the financial, social, and structural components of relationship marketing investments and the potential moderating factors offer valuable insights into contextual factors and managerial strategies for leveraging relationship marketing investments. In an attempt to suggest normative guidelines to managers, we extend our analysis to a simple resource allocation model that describes the optimal mix of relationship marketing resources based on firm strategies.
Pattern recognition and time-frequency representation of cardiac rhythm dynamics

86 14 14 22/73 Roelke et al, JACC 1994 92 7 – 59/1102 Anderson et al, JACC, 1995 – – 25 38/286 Meyerfeldt et al, EHJ, 1997 85 13 2 90/260 Taylor et al, JCE, 2000 56 – – 52/68 Saeed et al, AJC, 2000 – – 8 309/4973 Gronefeld et al, PACE 2002 complex and includes a multitude of time-varying components. Analysis of changes in these components has proven useful for analysis of the autonomic nervous system activity, as well as stress responses that might be related to clinically significant ischemic and arrhythmic events. However, because of the multicomponent structure of cardiac rhythm, tracking changes in this signal, in particular abrupt and irregular perturbations, is technically challenging. One important goal of the time-series analysis of cardiac rhythm is an identification of patterns and mechanisms predisposing to the initiation of ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VTA). Changes in cardiac rhythm have been consistently found before the onset of VTA in different patient populations. The predominant pattern of changes
Resistance of prostate cancer cell lines to COX-2 inhibitor treatment.

Targeting of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) for cancer chemoprevention is well supported for several tumor types, most notably colon cancer. In contrast, the data for its role in prostate cancer carcinogenesis are correlative only. Thus, we compared the COX-2 expression, activity, and effects of inhibition in prostate cancer cells on COX-2-dependent colon cancer cells. COX-2 levels in benign and malignant human prostate tissue were determined by immunohistochemistry. Compared to colon cancer cells, prostate cancer cells expressed lower levels of COX-2, produced less PGE 2 , and were resistant to selective COX-2 inhibition. Examination of benign prostatic epithelium from prostatectomy samples demonstrated rare foci of COX-2. Whereas, human prostate cancer sections were uniformly negative for COX-2. In conclusion, these studies indicate the lack of a putative role for COX-2 in prostate cancer development. Direct evidence for the involvement of COX-2 in prostate cancer carcinogenesis is desperately needed.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection in Adolescence: A Rationale for Action

Abstract At present, less than 600 American adolescents have been diagnosed as having AIDS, but the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection among youth is unknown. Though attention is currently focused on groups that account for a higher percent of cases, there are reasons to believe that adolescents are a low-incidence, but potentially high-risk group for AIDS. Analysis of recent data about the AIDS epidemic's geographic distribution, age, sex, and ethnic/racial characteristics provide a rationale for extension of infection into certain segments of the adolescent population. Aspects of adolescent physiology, sexual and drug-related behavior, and development are examined in the context of AIDS risk. Legal, ethical, economic, and sociopolitical ramifications are explored. A model is proposed that provides a conceptual framework for analysis of relative risk of HIV infection in various adolescent subgroups. This model can be used as a basis for recommendations related to HIV infection in adolescents.
‘Physicality’: One Among the Internal Goods of Sport

(1996). ‘Physicality’: One Among the Internal Goods of Sport. Journal of the Philosophy of Sport: Vol. 23, No. 1, pp. 91-103.
On the Nature of Reservoir-induced Seismicity

In most cases of reservoir-induced seismicity, seismicity follows the impoundment, large lake-level changes, or filling at a later time above the highest water level achieved until then. We classify this as initial seismicity. This “initial seismicity” is ascribable to the coupled poroelastic response of the reservoir to initial filling or water level changes. It is characterized by an increase in seismicity above preimpoundment levels, large event(s), general stabilization and (usually) a lack of seismicity beneath the deepest part of the reservoir, widespread seismicity on the periphery, migrating outwards in one or more directions. With time, there is a decrease in both the number and magnitudes of earthquakes, with the seismicity returning to preimpoundment levels. However, after several years some reservoirs continue to be active; whereas, there is no seismicity at others. Preliminary results of two-dimensional (similar to those by Roeloffs, 1988) calculations suggest that, this “protracted seismicity” depends on the frequency and amplitude of lake-level changes, reservoir dimensions and hydromechanical properties of the substratum. Strength changes show delays with respect to lake-level changes. Longer period water level changes (~ 1 year) are more likely to cause deeper and larger earthquakes than short period water level changes. Earthquakes occur at reservoirs where the lake-level changes are comparable or a large fraction of the least depth of water. The seismicity is likely to be more widespread and deeper for a larger reservoir than for a smaller one. The induced seismicity is observed both beneath the deepest part of the reservoir and in the surrounding areas. The location of the seismicity is governed by the nature of faulting below and near the reservoir.
Properties and Function of Brain Carbonic Anhydrase

This chapter has described the characterization and biogenesis of soluble and membrane-bound CA in the central nervous system. The two forms of the enzyme appear to be quite similar in their molecular characteristics, however the data strongly indicate that they are synthesized on separate polysomal populations; the membrane-bound form resulting from synthesis on the RER. Our preliminary data suggest that the partitioning of mRNA for CA on the different polysomes results from the interaction of partial nascent chains with a specific receptor on the RER. We feel a function of membrane-associated synthesis is for the targeting of CA to sites in the cell where there are enzymes that can rapidly utilize the protons and bicarbonate produced by CA catalytic activity for ion exchange reactions. We have also presented arguments that CA may function as a bicarbonate source in the control of metabolism specifically in the acceleration of fatty acid synthesis in the oligodendrocyte.
Integral equations for inhomogeneous many-body systems☆

Abstract We present here two new hierarchies of integral equations designed for treating inhomogeneous many-body systems. One hierarchy is for correlated wave functions in their general form, while the other is useful only when certain physical conditions are met. Applications to homogeneous electron liquids and nuclear matter are first discussed. For nuclear matter, we point out discrepancies between our results and those of FHNC/4 and Monte Carlo, and suggest how our integral equation method can complement the latter methods. We then briefly review and comment on recent applications of our method to inhomogeneous electron liquids, metallic hydrogen, surfaces of liquid 3 He, liquid 4 He, and nuclear matter.
HPLC profiling of phenolics in diverse potato genotypes

Abstract Potatoes from over fifty genotypes representing cultivars, breeding lines, primitive germplasm and wild species were analysed for phenolic content and hydrophilic antioxidant capacity. Genotypes with markedly higher amounts than the most commonly consumed potatoes were identified. Chlorogenic acid was the most abundant phenolic and ranged from 22 to 473 mg/100 g dry weight. Rutin and kaempferol-3-rutinose were the most abundant flavonols. Total phenolics ranged from 1.8 to 11 mg/g DW and antioxidant capacity ranged from 27 to 219 μmol TE/g DW. Total phenolics and antioxidants in these high-phytonutrient potatoes compared favourably to 15 other analysed vegetables. With the high per capita consumption of potatoes, widespread adoption of high-phytonutrient cultivars could significantly increase dietary intake of phytonutrients.
Abubakar Gumi’s al-͑Aqīda al-Ṣaḥīḥa bi-Muwāfaqat al-Sharī͑a: Global Salafi sm and Locally Oriented Polemics in a Northern Nigerian Text

Al-Aqīda al-Ṣaḥīḥa bi-Muwāfaqat al-Sharīa, published by the Nigerian scholar Abubakar Gumi in 1972, caused controversy within the Northern Nigerian Muslim community due to the book’s fierce attacks on Sufi beliefs and practices. Building on previous analyses of the text that address its role within theological debates in West Africa, this article situates al Aqida al Sahiha with regard to global intellectual currents in Salafism, a loose movement that aims to base Islamic life and thought strictly in the Qurʾan and the Sunna of the Prophet Muhammad. The article identifies key Salafi themes that appear in the text and argues that Gumi’s concerns focused largely on religious and political struggles in Nigeria. This interaction between global discourses and local debates gives insight into the intellectual contributions that Arab-educated Muslims like Gumi have made to religious change in West Africa.
MO‐SAM‐BRB‐01: Biological Aspects of Heavy Charged Particle Radiation Therapy

The relative biological effectiveness (RBE) is defined as the ratio of the doses required by two radiations to cause the same level of effect. Thus, the RBE depends on the dose and the biological endpoint. Proton therapy has been based on the use of a generic RBE of 1.1, which is applied to all treatments independent of dose/fraction, position in the irradiated volume, initial beam energy or the particular tissue. The variability of RBE in clinical situations is believed to be within 10% but quantitative dependencies of the RBE on various physical and biological properties are disregarded. The magnitude of RBE values and their variations is significantly larger for Carbon ion therapy. Studies have demonstrated significant RBE values of more than 3 in clinically relevant scenarios for Carbon ions. Further, there might be considerable variations in RBE within the irradiated volume that are being considered in treatment planning and delivery. Heavy ions have a potential advantage compared to protons when it comes to their therapeutic ratio due to an elevated RBE in the tumor (based on the oxygen enhancement ratio and higher average LET values) compared to the surrounding tissue. However, on the other hand, at present there are still considerable uncertainties in heavy ion RBE values. Elevated RBE values (even for protons) might be expected particularly near the edges of the high‐dose volume because doses may be deposited by high‐LET particles. The increase in RBE as a function of depth in the patient results in an extension of the bio‐effective range of the beam. Further, because RBE values may increase with deceasing dose causing elevated RBE values for organs at risk compared to the target area. In order to incorporate detailed RBE modeling in treatment planning as a function of LET, dose and endpoint, two aspects have to be considered. Firstly, the available information from experimental studies and secondly, our ability to calculate RBE values for a given treatment plan based on parameters extracted from such experiments. RBE values are often based on cell survival data because this is the main endpoint of interest in radiation therapy. However, one migt expect differences in RBE for cell survival compared to cell mutation, the latter being an important endpoint for late effects. This educational session will focus on summarizing the mechanisms behind RBE variations among treatment modalities. Further, RBE variations as a function of LET, tissue and dose will be presented based on experimental and simulated data for proton and Carbon ion beams. Finally, different approaches for theoretical modeling of RBE values for treatment planning purposes will be discussed briefly. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the mechanisms behind heavy charged particle RBE values 2. Understand the variations of RBE as a function of physical and biological parameters 3. Understand the clinical implication of RBE values in proton and Carbon ion therapy
Comparison of the Frequency of Abnormal Cardiac Findings by Echocardiography in Patients With and Without Peripheral Arterial Disease

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) diagnosed by ankle-brachial index (ABI) evaluation is associated with a high cardiovascular mortality rate. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) allows identification of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and other cardiac findings associated with an increased cardiovascular mortality rate, for which treatments to alter prognosis are available. We sought to determine the prevalence of important TTE abnormalities in outpatients with symptomatic PAD by performing screening TEE. Outpatients without previous echocardiography who had been referred for ABI evaluation for suspected PAD underwent prospective screening TTE. The primary end points were LV dysfunction (LV ejection fraction 0.9, n = 84), and PAD was found to be an independent predictor of LV dysfunction (odds ratio 2.8, 95% confidence interval 1.2 to 6.4) and composite clinically important echocardiographic findings (3.2 95% confidence interval 1.5 to 7.1, p <0.01). In conclusion, outpatients with symptomatic PAD have a high prevalence of clinically important TTE abnormalities, including LV dysfunction, and PAD is an independent predictor of an abnormal echocardiogram.
The Federalism of Fracking: How the Locus of Policy-Making Authority Affects Civic Engagement

In 1961, V. Ostrom, Tiebout, and Warren (OTW) argued that small political jurisdictions foster more civic engagement than large jurisdictions. Empirical tests of this claim have produced mixed results. Drawing on E. Ostrom's theorizing, we contend that these mixed findings may result from scholars ignoring differences in the policy-making capacity of seemingly comparable jurisdictions. We nuance OTW's hypothesis by examining how the size of the jurisdiction with authority to shape policy affects civic engagement surrounding hydraulic fracturing in New York and Pennsylvania. Empirical analysis supports the nuanced OTW hypothesis: Citizens in New York, where meaningful fracking policy-making authority rests with small local jurisdictions, evidence more civic engagement than citizens in Pennsylvania, where the locus for fracking policy-making authority is a large, commonwealth-wide jurisdiction.
Fishing for a WNT-PGE2 Link: β-Catenin Is Caught in the Stem Cell Net-work

WNT and PGE2 signaling pathways are each associated with stem cell activity in the hematopoietic system. In a recent issue of Cell, Goessling et al. (2009) use the zebrafish model to reveal a conserved PKA-dependent mechanism that connects the two pathways via beta-catenin, enhancing stem cell proliferation and tissue regeneration.
Heart failure and treatment: part 1.

Diagnosis of heart failure is increasingly prevalent. Each year, 550,000 new cases are anticipated. To provide quality outcomes, nurses and physicians must understand the etiology and pathophysiology of heart failure. Research into heart failure provides information about treatment and drug therapies that reduce heart failure symptoms and improve quality of life. PACU nurses care for heart failure patients in various stages of this syndrome. Determining the plan of care for this high acuity population requires nurses with skills to manage complex patients in the perianesthesia period.
User assistance for complex systems

There is much opportunity for innovation in the areas of design, development, and delivery of technical communication for "systems of systems." Systems can be extremely complex, and contain many subsystems and components. The presentation of technical communication for a system of systems adds layers of complexity both to explaining the basic concepts of the system and all the details required for each area of the system that may be applicable to each type of user or role, function, and operation. It becomes more critical and yet more difficult to provide clear and comprehensive overviews and details of a system and its subsystems and components, as the complexity increases.
C ∞-Regularity for the porous medium equation

On etablit un resultat de regularite optimale pour l'equation d'un milieu poreux u t -(u m ) xx =0, x∈R, t>0, u(., 0)=u 0 pour m>1 et la donnee initiale u 0 positive continue a support compact connexe
Tu1467 Factors Affecting Adherence to Spit Dose Bowl Preparation for Colonoscopy

Tu1467 Factors Affecting Adherence to Spit Dose Bowl Preparation for Colonoscopy Steven Zeddun, David Ramsay, Lindsay Rosenthal, Marie L. Borum Gastroenterology, George Washington University, Washington, DC Background/Aims: Optimal bowel preparation is an important component of effective colonoscopy. Split dose preparation, despite its proven efficacy, is not always used in clinical practice possibly due to concern with patient adherence. There have been no published studies evaluating patient factors affecting adherence to a split dose bowel preparation. The primary aim was to determine patient factors which affect adherence to split dose bowel preparation. The secondary aim was to evaluate preference in bowel preparation in those who have had split and single dose preparation. Methods: Nurses performed surveys on consecutive colonoscopy patients who had been instructed to take a split dose preparation. Data collected included adherence to split dose instructions, age, gender, race, primary language, highest level of education completed, the presence of a previous colonoscopy with a single dose preparation, and preference between split and single dose if applicable. A database was created using Microsoft Excel. Statistical analysis was performed using a Chi Square test and T test. Significance was defined as p 0.05. Results: 250 patients completed the survey. 206 patients(82%) adhered to the split dose preparation. The mean age of the patients who adhered was 50, 50.4% were male, and 49.6% were female. 44 patients(17.6%) did not adhere to a split dose preparation. The mean age of non-adherent patients was 53, 34% were male, and 66% were female. There was a significantly higher percentage of patients with an education level of grade school in non-adherent patients(16% vs. 3%, p 0.001). Female gender was also seen in a higher percentage of non-adherent patients(66% vs. 50%, p . 02). There was no significant difference between the groups in regards to age, race, or primary language. 92 patients who adhered to the split dose instructions reported having a previous colonoscopy with a single dose preparation. 64% of these patients preferred the split dose preparation and 26% preferred the single dose preparation. There was a significant difference in mean age between those preferring split dose and those preferring single dose preparations (57 vs. 66, p . 0008), with older patients preferring a single dose preparation. Conclusions: There is limited data on patient characteristics and their relation to adequate bowel preparation for colonoscopy. This is the first study evaluating patient factors affecting adherence to split dose bowel preparation for colonoscopy. In this study, education level and gender influenced adherence to split dose bowel preparation. Specifically, a lower education level(grade school) and female gender were seen in a higher percentage of the non-adherent patients. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and evaluate for additional factors affecting adherence to split dose preparation.
Acoustic measures of vocal stability during different speech tasks in young women using oral contraceptives: a retrospective study

Objectives To compare objective voice measures of vocal stability during different speech tasks in women taking oral contraceptives to those in women not taking oral contraceptives. Methods Voice recordings obtained from 28 women, aged 20-30 years old, were used for the study. Eighteen of the women were taking some form of oral contraception at the time of the recording (OC women); ten women were not taking any oral contraceptive medication (NOC women). Measures related to pitch, vocal stability, and loudness were obtained from sustained vowel and paragraph reading tasks. Results The OC women demonstrated significantly higher pitch levels but lower values related to measures of vocal stability. Conclusions The use of oral contraceptives appears to exert a positive influence upon vocal fold function. Women taking oral contraceptives demonstrate higher pitch levels and greater stability during phonation than do women not taking oral contraceptives. This improvement in vocal function is contributed to the mo...
Client Retention and Engagement‐Level Pricing

This study contributes to the debate on the motives for auditor changes by examining the relationship between client retention and one of the many factors that potentially influence client retention, engagement‐level pricing. We find for a sample of public and private audit engagements that the difference between realized realization rates (the ratio of the audit fee billed to the standard audit fee) and expected realization rates is positively associated with client retention over a five‐year window. Our findings suggest pricing pressure is more than an isolated occurrence and the incumbent auditor's inability to recover unexpectedly high labor usage is associated with the severing of the auditor‐auditee relationship.
Putting the Brain on the Map: Use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Assess and Induce Cortical Plasticity of Upper-Extremity Movement

The plasticity of the brain is an increasingly important topic for physical therapists interested in childhood development, learning, and repair following injury. The study of plasticity directly in the human nervous system presents numerous challenges, such as the ability to assess neuronal function in vivo because of physical impediments, such as the skull, skin, and dura. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), however, has become a suitable, noninvasive, and painless technique that can be applied to detect changes in cortical excitability as an indicator of neurological changes. Furthermore, repetitive trains of TMS themselves can induce plasticity. This article discusses the use of TMS to investigate and manipulate plasticity in the human nervous system.
Utility of the percentage of positive prostate biopsies in predicting PSA outcome after radiotherapy for patients with clinically localized prostate cancer

Abstract Purpose To determine the utility of the percentage of positive prostate biopsies (PPPB) in predicting prostate-specific antigen (PSA) outcome after external beam radiotherapy alone. Methods and materials The records of 750 clinical Stage T1 and T2 patients treated by external beam radiotherapy alone with a median follow-up of 80 months were reviewed. Of the 750 patients, 345 were eligible for analysis; 255 (74%) had undergone sextant biopsies, 28 (8%) 6 biopsies. The pretreatment PSA level ( 20 ng/mL), biopsy Gleason score (2–6, 7, 8–10), and clinical stage (T1-T2a, T2b, T2c), uni- or bilateral positive biopsy, radiation dose, and PPPB were analyzed as potential predictors of PSA outcome. The PPPB data were analyzed as a continuous and as a categorical variable. Results PPPB was a significant predictor of the time to PSA failure on univariate analysis as a continuous ( p = 0.0053) and as a categorical ( p = 0.0077) variable. In multivariate analysis, a trend was noted for worse 5-year PSA failure-free survival based on PPPB ≥50% vs. p = 0.082). Sixty-four patients experienced biochemical failure according to the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology Oncology definition. The 5-year PSA failure-free survival rate was 79% vs. 69% ( p = 0.02) and the clinical disease-free survival rate was 97% vs. 86% ( p = 0.0004) for patients with Conclusion PPPB was a predictor of post–external beam radiotherapy PSA outcome in clinically localized prostate cancer; but in this cohort it did not provide additional information beyond the traditional risk stratification schema.
A numerical model for microwave emission from soil with vegetation cover

A numerical approach to model the microwave emission from soil with vegetation cover is developed. The vegetation cover is represented as an irregular layer on top of a homogeneous half space representing the soil. The phase matrix of the layer components as well as the emission characteristics have been estimated using the Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) Method. The phase matrix was then integrated into a layer model that accounts for the scattering between the layer and soil, using the radiative transfer theory. The effects of interface roughness on emission are incorporated into the model through the surface phase matrices, which are computed using the Integral Equation Model (IEM). The validity of the phase matrices computation is tested against theoretical models. The microwave emission model predictions are compared to field measurements, showing a good agreement.
Filmmaking and Research: An Intersection

This article examines the intersection between the processes of filmmaking and research. The goal is to explore how documentary filmmakers can contribute to how we do our research on organizations and how organizational researchers can contribute to documentary filmmaking. The article draws from the author’s work as an organizational researcher and the author’s work in producing educational and documentary films about work during the past 12 years. After delineating some similarities and differences between the processes, specific suggestions are presented on how organizational researchers can learn from filmmakers and vice versa.
TRANSCRIPTIONAL ACTIVATION UPON PHEROMONE STIMULATION MEDIATED BY A SMALL DOMAIN OF SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE STE12P

In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Ste12p induces transcription of pheromone-responsive genes by binding to a DNA sequence designated the pheromone response element. We generated a series of hybrid proteins of Ste12p with the DNA-binding and activation domains of the transcriptional activator Gal4p to define a pheromone induction domain of Ste12p sufficient to mediate pheromone-induced transcription by these hybrid proteins. A minimal pheromone induction domain, delineated as residues 301 to 335 of Ste12p, is dependent on the pheromone mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathway for induction activity. Mutation of the three serine and threonine residues within the minimal pheromone induction domain did not affect transcriptional induction, indicating that the activity of this domain is not directly regulated by MAP kinase phosphorylation. By contrast, mutation of the two tyrosines or their preceding acidic residues led to a high level of transcriptional activity in the absence of pheromone and consequently to the loss of pheromone induction. This constitutively high activity was not affected by mutations in the MAP kinase cascade, suggesting that the function of the pheromone induction domain is normally repressed in the absence of pheromone. By two-hybrid analysis, this minimal domain interacts with two negative regulators, Dig1p and Dig2p (also designated Rst1p and Rst2p), and the interaction is abolished by mutation of the tyrosines. The pheromone induction domain itself has weak and inducible transcriptional activity, and its ability to potentiate transcription depends on the activity of an adjacent activation domain. These results suggest that the pheromone induction domain of Ste12p mediates transcriptional induction via a two-step process: the relief of repression and synergistic transcriptional activation with another activation domain.
Regulation of Protein Mobility in Cell Membranes: A Dynamic Corral Model

We analyze a two-state stochastic corral model for regulation of protein diffusion in a cell membrane. This model could mimic control of protein transport in the membrane by the cytoskeleton. The dynamic corral acts as a gate which when open permits an otherwise trapped protein to escape to a neighboring corral in the cytoskeletal network. We solve for the escape rate over a wide range of parameters of the model, and compare these results with Monte Carlo simulations. Upon introducing measured values of the model parameters for Band 3 in erythrocyte membranes, we are able to estimate the value for one unknown parameter, the average rate at which the corral closes. The ratio of calculated closing rate to measured opening rate is roughly 100:1, consistent with a gating mechanism whereby protein mobility is regulated by dissociation and reassociation of segments of the cytoskeletal network.
OWA operators in data modeling and reidentification

This paper is devoted to the application of aggregation operators and to the application of ordered weighting averaging (OWA) operators to data mining. In particular, we consider two application of OWA operators in this field: model building and information extraction. The latter application is oriented to the reidentification procedures.
Shear resistance of cold-formed steel framed shear walls with 0.686 mm, 0.762 mm, and 0.838 mm steel sheet sheathing

Abstract The cold-formed steel (CFS) framed shear walls using steel sheet sheathing is a code approved lateral force resisting system in residential and low-rise commercial buildings in the United States. The current design specifications in the US provide nominal shear strength for a limited range of CFS shear wall configurations in terms of sheathing thickness and wall aspect ratio. This paper presents a research project aimed to add shear strength values for 0.686 mm, 0.762 mm, and 0.838 mm steel sheet sheathed CFS shear walls with aspect ratios of 2:1 or 4:1. The project consisted of two series of tests. The first series was monotonic tests for determining the nominal shear strength for wind loads. The second series was the cyclic tests using CUREE protocol to obtain the shear strength for seismic loads. The studied shear walls used 0.838 mm or 1.092 mm thick CFS framing members. The sheathing was only attached to one side of the frame. No. 8 modified truss head self-drilling screws were used for all the test specimens. This paper details the testing methods, specimen configurations, and the test results.
From model studies on Au(1 1 1) to working conditions with unsupported nanoporous gold catalysts: Oxygen-assisted coupling reactions

Abstract The fundamental principles derived from model studies on metallic gold single crystals for oxygen-assisted reactions provides a framework for understanding nanoporous gold–silver alloy catalysts under working catalytic conditions (ambient pressure, moderate temperature). The mechanistic principles for reactivity obtained from fundamental studies guide the understanding of reactivity and selectivity for oxygen-assisted self-coupling and cross-coupling reactions of alcohols on the catalytic materials. Furthermore, current results coupled with recent reports regarding the activation of nanoporous gold provide insight into the activation/deactivation of these catalysts and the challenge of maintaining sustainable reactivity. Finally, new fabrication methods and developments for gold-based nanoporous alloys with Cu, Pd, and Pt show that complementary reactivity and new properties are possible through these materials.
A robust fuel flexible combustion control strategy for biodiesel with variable fatty acid composition during mixing-controlled combustion:

Biodiesel is a diesel fuel alternative which is produced from renewable and domestically available sources. The use of biodiesel generally lowers carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and particulate matter emissions. However, there are certain challenges associated with the use of biodiesel, mainly (1) lower fuel energy density, (2) increased nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and (3) fuel variability due to feedstock and processing differences. In prior efforts, the authors have demonstrated that the first two of these challenges can be overcome for different blend fractions of soy-based biodiesel by using a control algorithm incorporating energy-based fueling for torque control and combustible oxygen mass fraction control for NOx regulation. However, in addition to overcoming these combustion-related challenges, in this work, the authors consider the extension of these techniques to biodiesel generated from oils/fats of varying composition. The type of oil/fat from which the biodiesel is derived will impact the ...
Targeting the Histone Acetyl-Transferase, RTT109, for Novel Anti-Fungal Drug Development: A Dissertation

Discovery of new antifungal chemo-therapeutics for humans is limited by the large degree of conservation among eukaryotic organisms. In recent years, the histone acetyl-transferase Rtt109 was identified as the sole enzyme responsible for an abundant and important histone modification, histone H3 lysine 56 (H3K56) acetylation. In the absence of Rtt109, the lack of acetylated H3K56 renders yeast cells extremely sensitive to genotoxic agents. Consequently, the ability to sustain genotoxic stress from the host immune system is crucial for pathogens to perpetuate an infection. Because Rtt109 is conserved only within the fungal kingdom, I reasoned that Rtt109 could be a novel drug target. My dissertation first establishes that genome stability provided by Rtt109 and H3K56 acetylation is required for Candida albicans pathogenesis. I demonstrate that mice infected with rtt109 cells experience a significant reduction in organ pathology and mortality rate. I hypothesized that the avirulent phenotype of rtt109 -/cells is due to their intrinsic hypersensitivity to the genotoxic effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are utilized by phagocytic cells of the immune system to kill pathogens. Indeed, C. albicans rtt109 -/cells are more efficiently killed by macrophages in vitro than are wild-type cells. However, inhibition of ROS generation in macrophages renders rtt109 -/and wild-type yeast cells equally resilient to killing. These findings support the concept that ability to resist genotoxic stress conferred by Rtt109 and H3K56 acetylation is a virulence factor for fungal pathogens and establish Rtt109 as an opportune drugtarget for novel antifungal therapeutics.