cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
I think therefore I Am? Examining the relationship between exercise identity and exercise behavior during behavioral weight loss treatment.

Abstract Objectives Identification as an exerciser may promote physical activity. This study examined exercise identity (EI) and its relationship with demographic characteristics and exercise among adults participating in behavioral weight loss treatment, which is a key target population for increasing exercise. Design Longitudinal. Method Participants (N = 320) completed a measure of EI and exercise was assessed with accelerometers at baseline and 6 months. Results Baseline EI and exercise were positively related and EI and exercise increased over time. However, change in EI was not meaningfully related to change in exercise, baseline EI did not predict change in exercise, and 6-month EI was not related to 6-month exercise. Participants identifying as non-White reported greater EI but lower exercise. Conclusions Although EI and exercise may increase among weight loss participants, the two may not be meaningfully related during active weight loss treatment. The relationship between EI and exercise may also differ based on race.
Efficient consideration of coordinated water molecules improves computational protein-protein and protein-ligand docking

Abstract Highly-coordinated water molecules are frequently an integral part of protein-protein and protein-ligand interfaces. We introduce an updated energy model that efficiently captures the energetic effects of these highly-coordinated water molecules on the surfaces of proteins. A two-stage protocol is developed in which polar groups arranged in geometries suitable for water placement are first identified, then a modified Monte Carlo simulation allows highly coordinated waters to emerge. This “semi-explicit” water model is implemented in Rosetta and allows for simultaneous prediction of side chain conformation and coordinated water geometry; the approach is suitable for structure prediction and protein design. We show that our new approach and energy model yield significant improvements in native structure recovery of protein-protein and protein-ligand docking. Significance Statement Coordinated water molecules, those forming multiple hydrogen bonds with protein polar groups, play an important role in the structure of and interaction between biomolecules, yet the effect of these waters is often not considered in biomolecular computations. In this paper, we describe a method to efficiently consider these water molecules both implicitly and explicitly at the interfaces formed by two polar molecules. In computations related to determining how a protein interacts with binding partners, we show that the use of this new method significantly improves results. Future application of this approach may improve the design of new protein and small molecule drugs.
The Applied Legitimacy Index: A New Approach to Measuring Judicial Legitimacy

Objectives This article advances criticisms of the traditional legitimacy index as it relates to determining whether ideological distance predicts an individual's willing to sanction the Court. As a solution to these criticisms, this article develops a new measure of judicial legitimacy, the applied legitimacy index. Methods Using data from the American Panel Survey and item response theory models, this article estimates the applied legitimacy index. Ordinary least squares regression models then compare the effect ideological distance has on both the traditional legitimacy index and the newly developed applied legitimacy index. Results The results indicate that those who are ideologically distant from the Court have diminished views of the Court's applied legitimacy. The substantive effect of ideological distance is much larger for applied legitimacy than when compared with traditional legitimacy. Conclusions This article suggests that the traditional legitimacy index may overestimate loyalty to the Court and underestimate the extent to which individuals are willing to sanction an ideologically distant Court. Based on this, the article advocates that scholars adopt the applied legitimacy index in future studies.
New questions about a long-standing model

Quite simply, the common sense model (e.g., Leventhal, Diefenbach, & Leventhal, 1992; Leventhal, Meyer, & Nerenz, 1980) of illness representations has legs. Many scholars are interested in it, it i...
Comprehensive analysis of Conservation Voltage Reduction: A real case study

This article presents a load modeling application using real data measurements to estimate peak demand reduction due to voltage control. The load models parameters estimates yield conservation voltage reduction indicators, that quantify the effectiveness of this smart grid approach designed to save energy and reduce power demand at peak times. The data analyzed were recorded from UK primary distribution substations, chosen in the scope of a research & development project. Stratified random sampling and statistical inference were used to extract information that gathered load composition differences due to the time of the day, the day of the week and the season, aiming the assessment of the confidence level of the peak demand reduction estimation.
Development and testing of a 3.9 GHz power coupler for a superconducting particle accelerator cavity

Superconducting cavities offer the advantage of high field intensity for a given input power, making them an attractive contender for particle accelerator applications [1]. Power coupling into a superconducting cavity employed in a particle accelerator requires unique provisions to maintain high vacuum and cryogenic temperature on the cavity side, while operating with ambient conditions on the source side. Components introduced to fulfill mechanical requirements must show negligible obstruction of the propagation of the microwave with absence of critical locations that may give rise to electron multipaction and thermal breakdown, leading to a multiple section design, instead of an aperture, a probe, or a loop structure as found in conventional cavities. A coaxial power coupler for a superconducting multiple-cell cavity at 3.9 GHz has been developed at Fermilab. The cavity is intended to be employed as an accelerator to provide enhanced electron beam quality for a free-electron laser in the Hamburg user facility.
Obstructive sleep apnea due to oromandibular dystonia and treated with botulinum toxin.

Abnormalities of the upper airway anatomy are an underrecognized cause of obstructive sleep apnea. We present a unique case of a 51-year-old man with episodic sleep-maintenance insomnia and oromand...
Remembering Women Differently: Refiguring Rhetorical Work: Lynée Lewis Gaillet and Helen Gaillet Bailey, eds. Remembering Women Differently: Refiguring Rhetorical Work. Columbia, SC: University of South Carolina Press, 2019. 292 pages. $49.99 hardcover.

In their seminal text, Feminist Rhetorical Practices: New Horizons for Rhetoric, Composition, and Literacy Studies (Southern Illinois University Press, 2012), Jacqueline Jones Royster and Gesa E. K...
Weighing the Risk: effects of Obesity on the Mammary Gland and Breast Cancer Risk

Obesity is a preventable risk factor for breast cancer following menopause. Regardless of menopausal status, obese women who develop breast cancer have a worsened prognosis. Breast tissue is comprised of mammary epithelial cells organized into ducts and lobules and surrounded by adipose-rich connective tissue. Studies utilizing multiple in vivo models of obesity as well as human breast tissue have contributed to our understanding of how obesity alters mammary tissue. Localized changes in mammary epithelial cell populations, elevated secretion of adipokines and angiogenic mediators, inflammation within mammary adipose tissue, and remodeling of the extracellular matrix may result in an environment conducive to breast cancer growth. Despite these significant alterations caused by obesity within breast tissue, studies have suggested that some, but not all, obesity-induced changes may be mitigated with weight loss. Here, we review our current understanding regarding the impact of obesity on the breast microenvironment, how obesity-induced changes may contribute to breast tumor progression, and the impact of weight loss on the breast microenvironment.
Employee benefit or occupational hazard? How employer coverage of egg freezing impacts reproductive decisions of graduate students.

Abstract Objective To better understand if employer-based financial coverage of non-medical oocyte cryopreservation impacts the way women make decisions about their reproduction, including the decision to pursue oocyte cryopreservation and the time frame in which they plan to begin family building. Design Prospective survey study Setting Academic medical center Patients Female graduate students at five different institutions in the Boston area Intervention A 27 question electronic survey Main outcome measures Likelihood of pursuing oocyte cryopreservation and time frame in which intend to build family, based on presence or absence of employer based financial coverage. Results 171 female graduate students completed the survey. 63% of participants cited professional goals as their primary reason for delaying childbearing and 54% indicated that oocyte cryopreservation would allow them to focus more on their career for the next several years. For 59% their main concern about egg freezing was the cost. 81% indicated that they would be more likely to consider egg banking if it were covered by their insurance or paid for by their employer. The majority of participants would not change when they would start building their family based on the presence or absence of employer financial coverage for egg freezing. Conclusion Female graduate student’s primary concern about egg freezing is the cost, and more women would consider elective egg freezing if financial coverage was provided by their employer, however the vast majority would ultimately not change their plans for and timing of family building based on this coverage.
Stream Monitoring and Preliminary Co-Treatment of Acid Mine Drainage and Municipal Wastewater along Dunkard Creek Area

This study investigated coal-mine drainage (AMD) and municipal wastewater (MWW) contaminant concentrations and conducted the combined treatment in phases I and II: phase I, evaluating the effects of mixing the two based on the extent of acid neutralization and metals removal; phase II: conducting anaerobic batch reactor treatment of AMD and MWW under varying COD/sulfate ratios (0.04-5.0). In phase I, acid mine drainage water quality conditions are as follows: pH 4.5, acidity 467.5 mg/L as CaCO3, alkalinity 96.0 mg/L as CaCO3, Cl- 11.8 mg/L, SO4 2- 1722 mg/L, TDS 2757.5 mg/L, TSS 9.8 mg/L, BOD 14.7 mg/L, Fe 138.1 mg/L, Mg 110.8 mg/L. Mn 7.5 mg/L, Al 8.1 mg/L, Na 114.2 mg/L, and Ca 233.5 mg/L. Results of the mixing experiments indicated significant removal of selected metals (Fe 85~98%, Mg 0~65%, Mn 63~89%, Al 98~99%, Na 0~30%), acidity (77~95%) from the mine water and pH was raised to above 6.3. The Phase II results suggested under the wide range of COD/ sulfate ratios, COD and sulfate removal varied from 37.4%-100% and 0%-93.5% respectively. During biological treatment, alkalinity was generated which leads to pH increase to around 7.6-8.5. The results suggested feasibility of the proposed technology for co-treatment of AMD and MWW. A conceptual design of co-treatment system which is expected to remove a matrix of pollutants has been provided to utilize all the locally available water resources to achieve the optimum treatment efficiency. The technology also offers an opportunity to significantly reduce capital and operating costs compared to the existing treatment methodologies used. Featured Application: In this study, we have measured the concentrations of contaminants in acid mine drainage (AMD) and municipal wastewater (MWW) and conducted the combined treatment in phases I and II. This is significant because in previous years there was a massive fish kill that is linked to the high total dissolved solids (TDS) and salinity content in the water. With the current proposed combined treatment technology, it shows high potential in reducing TDS and salinity content in the combined wastewater which will prevent similar accident (Dunkard creek fish kill in 2019) happening again.
Democracy, Legal Systems, and Renewable Energy and Storage Technology Innovations

Compared to other types of technology innovations, green technology (GT) innovations produce additional public good benefits in the form of improved environmental quality enjoyed by all people in g...
An Inpatient Scoring System To Prevent Hospital Acquired Pneumonia on Stroke Service (4705)

Objective: To develop a scoring metrics of various risk factors to identify stroke patients at risk for developing pneumonia. Background: Aspiration pneumonia is the result of inhalation of oropharyngeal contents into the lower airways. It is the number one cause of infection in patients with stroke. It is also associated with an increased mortality, morbidity and poor functional outcomes. It is estimated that 6%–22% of stroke patients suffer from pneumonia. The purpose of the study is to determine different risk factors and conditions that would help identify high-risk patients for aspiration pneumonia using a scoring system. Design/Methods: Electronic medical record (EMR) data from January 2016 to June 2016 was extracted and analyzed. ICD-10 codes were used to search the diagnosis of Ischemic Stroke (IS) and pneumonia. Aspiration pneumonia was considered if pneumonia was reported within 30 days of stroke. Co-morbid conditions and other variables included age, asthma, heart disease, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, CKD, diabetes, hypertension, COPD, dysphagia, dementia and delirium. Statistical modeling using two-tailed chi-square test was employed to find the best-fitted model for the scoring system. Results: A total of 376 patients were identified with acute ischemic stroke. Among these, 33 patients (9.12%) were found to have post stroke aspiration pneumonia. The mean age was 67 years with majority of the patients being females 21 (58%). The multivariable model for the predictor variables included; age > 80 years, presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), dysphagia, asthma, heart failure, dementia and delirium to have the highest sensitivity (93.9%), specificity (57%) and negative predictive value (98.9%). Conclusions: Presence of any one of the following co-morbidities can select patients at high risk of developing pneumonia on stroke service; COPD, Heart failure, Asthma, Age >80, Dysphagia, Delirium, and Dementia. This method has high sensitivity and NPV. This is a preliminary report from a larger prospective study. Disclosure: Dr. Farooqui has nothing to disclose. Dr. Farasatpour has nothing to disclose. Dr. Suriya has nothing to disclose. Dr. Qaryouti has nothing to disclose. Dr. Zafar has nothing to disclose.
A Large Parasitic Fibroid on the Mesentery

Study Objective The objective of this video is to demonstrate a rare operative finding of a parasitic fibroid attached to the mesentery and illustrate a technique for dissection. Design Case report. Setting Robot-assisted laparoscopic removal of a parasitic fibroid on the mesentery. Patients or Participants In this video, we present a 38-year-old G1P1001 with a history of a robot-assisted myomectomy with power morcellation who presented with recurrent bulk symptoms and was found to have a large parasitic fibroid to the mesentery. Interventions Parasitic fibroids are a rare clinical phenomenon in which fibroids receive their vascular supply from somewhere other than the uterus. Though they can develop de novo, the majority are thought to be iatrogenic as a result of previous uterine surgery (Kho 2009). The FDA issued a black box warning in 2014 that discouraged use of the power morcellator due to increased risk of disseminating fibroid tissue throughout the abdomen in the setting of uncontained morcellation (US FDA 2014, Seidman 2012). Though initially abandoned due to risk of increased mortality in the setting of disseminated uterine leiomyosarcoma, the most commonly reported complication of tissue dissemination is the formation of parasitic myoma (Tulandi 2016, Seidman 2012). Incidence is described between 0.12% and 1.1% after laparoscopic uterine surgery (Lete 2016). Morcellated fragments of fibroid may be left behind in the abdominal cavity and neovascularize to surrounding structures/abdominal wall. They are often multiple and can occur in a variety of locations. Measurements and Main Results Key surgical steps for the dissection of this mass are also reviewed which include: 1. Careful abdominopelvic survey 2. Identification of feeding vessels and their origin 3. Instillation of dilute vasopressin 4. Enucleation of the fibroids 5. Assure hemostasis 6. Removal with endoscopic bag 7. Contained hand morcellation Conclusion Development of parasitic fibroids after uterine surgery is a potential source of morbidity following initial treatment.
The carboxy-terminal 41 amino acids of herpes simplex virus type 1 glycoprotein B are not essential for production of infectious virus particles.

Glycoprotein B (gB) is a virally encoded protein that is found in the envelope of herpes simplex virus type 1 and membranes of cells infected with herpes simplex virus type 1. It is essential for the production of infectious virus particles. An amber mutation was introduced into the gB gene by oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis at the codon for amino acid 863 of the protein. Virus carrying this mutation should synthesize gB molecules lacking the last 41 amino acids of the cytoplasmic domain. Immunoprecipitation of infected cell extracts demonstrated the synthesis of appropriately truncated gB molecules. Characterization of the mutant virus indicated that the loss of the carboxy-terminal 41 amino acids has little effect on gB function. Images
In pursuit of neuroimaging biomarkers to guide treatment selection in major depressive disorder: a review of the literature

Over the last few decades, neuroimaging techniques have advanced the identification of structural, functional, and neurochemical brain abnormalities that are associated with the increased risk, clinical course, and treatment outcomes of major depressive disorder (MDD). This paper reviews specific neuroimaging abnormalities that, on the basis of early studies, may discriminate between MDD patients who do or do not respond to current therapeutic modalities, such as antidepressants, cognitive behavioral therapy, or novel therapies. Differences in gray matter volume, white matter coherence, brain activity via structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging techniques, and concentrations of specific brain metabolites (as measured with magnetic resonance spectroscopy), are potential biomarkers discussed in this review. Given the heterogeneity of MDD, larger, multisite studies with increased statistical power will be needed to identify more precise imaging biomarkers of treatment response in MDD.
Public policies to accelerate the adoption of fuel cells

The economic and technical challenges of fuel cell adoption in automobile systems extend well beyond the fuel cell, the methods selected to deliver hydrogen to the fuel cell and other technical considerations. Federal regulations could either speed or inhibit the adoption of fuel cells. For example, federal policies that promote further development of nuclear power will promote adoption of hydrogen production by nuclear generated electricity. Ten public policies that could accelerate the adoption of fuel cells in transportation applications are offered.
Multiphonon Relaxation in La Cl 3 : Nd 3 +

Lifetime and quantum-efficiency measurements were used to determine the transition rates between several adjacent groups of Stark levels lying above $R$ of La${\mathrm{Cl}}_{3}$: ${\mathrm{Nd}}^{3+}$. By choosing transitions for which the ion pair interaction could be excluded as a relaxation mechanism, the rate of energy transfer to the lattice by emission of several phonons was determined. The 4.2\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K rates were found to be due to spontaneous emission, and for $C\ensuremath{\rightarrow}B$, $S\ensuremath{\rightarrow}R$, and $D\ensuremath{\rightarrow}C$ are (2.23\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.38)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{3}$ ${\mathrm{sec}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, (4.59\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.64)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{4}$ ${\mathrm{sec}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, and (6.3\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}3.1)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{3}$ ${\mathrm{sec}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, respectively. At higher temperatures increased rates due to emission stimulated by thermally populated phonon states were measured. Fitting the temperature dependences permitted estimates of the magnitude of the phonons involved, and determined their frequencies to be in the range of the optical branches of the La${\mathrm{Cl}}_{3}$ phonon spectrum. A technique for measuring quantum efficiencies is presented which does not require the use of a spectrometer which has been calibrated for transmission.
What contributes to self-rated oral health among community-dwelling older adults? Findings from the ElderSmile program.

Objectives As part of ongoing efforts by the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine to devise community-based models of health promotion and care for local residents, we sought to answer the following query: “What contributes to self-rated oral health among community-dwelling older adults?”
Java slot machine applet: nifty assignment

This paper describes an assignment in which a student implements a Java applet that simulates a slot machine. The assignment is given in an advanced Java programming course in conjunction with the topic of multithreading. The assignment's student learning objectives include: (1) implement multiple concurrent threads, (2) recognize and use the Java synchronized construct, (3) recognize and use thread states to pause and resume thread execution, (4) use nested panels to construct an attractive GUI. Because most students know what a slot machine is, they immediately understand the requirements of the assignment and most think it is fun.
Response to Comment on “MHC Class II Expression Identifies Functionally Distinct Human Regulatory T Cells”

In the current issue of The Journal of Immunology , the letter from Swiatek-de Lange et al. ([1][1]) presents data confirming our observation that class II expressing CD25high human natural regulatory T cells (nTregs) express the highest levels of FoxP3. We welcome additional studies into this nTreg
Expenditures and student achievement in Illinois

Abstract This study examines educational outcomes in Illinois for the 1989–1990 school year. Several measures of educational attainment are analyzed including ACT scores, high school graduation rates, and the percentage in a high school planning to attend college. The most important results are that an increase in average teacher's salary increases ACT scores and the percentage college-bound and an increase in the pupil-teacher ratio reduces the graduation rate and the percentage college-bound.
ES-MRAC: A New Paradigm For Adaptive Control

We develop a method for the model reference adaptive control (MRAC) of LTI systems via Extremum Seeking (ES). Our proof of global asymptotic tracking enables design of the adaptive controller to satisfy averaging requirements, and convergence of tracking error. Our method is novel, with the additional advantage that no perturbations need be added to the reference trajectory and no a priori knowledge of parameter signs is needed. We illustrate our results for a simulated second order system.
A numerical method for fully resolved simulation (FRS) of rigid particle-flow interactions in complex flows

A fictitious-domain based formulation for fully resolved simulations of arbitrary shaped, freely moving rigid particles in unsteady flows is presented. The entire fluid-particle domain is assumed to be an incompressible, but variable density, fluid. The numerical method is based on a finite-volume approach on a co-located, Cartesian grid together with a fractional step method for variable density, low-Mach number flows. The flow inside the fluid region is constrained to be divergence-free for an incompressible fluid, whereas the flow inside the particle domain is constrained to undergo rigid body motion. In this approach, the rigid body motion constraint is imposed by avoiding the explicit calculation of distributed Lagrange multipliers and is based upon the formulation developed by Patankar [N. Patankar, A formulation for fast computations of rigid particulate flows, Center for Turbulence Research Annual Research Briefs 2001 (2001) 185-196]. The rigidity constraint is imposed and the rigid body motion (translation and rotational velocity fields) is obtained directly in the context of a two-stage fractional step scheme. The numerical approach is applied to both imposed particle motion and fluid-particle interaction problems involving freely moving particles. Grid and time-step convergence studies are performed to evaluate the accuracy of the approach. Finally, simulation of rigid particles in a decaying isotropic turbulent flow is performed to study the feasibility of simulations of particle-laden turbulent flows.
Lost in citation: Vanishing visibility of senior authors

The senior author is usually last on the byline of scientific publications, yet generally has made the second most important contribution. The explosion in author number per scientific paper, has necessitated limits on the number of authors allowed in cited references, frequently resulting in senior author truncation. Would potential visibility gained from citations in top-tier journals be offset by senior author omission? We found evidence for this in a sample of 208 journals, showing significant associations between author limits in cited references and various measures of journal quality. These associations, however, differed among biological science, physical science, and interdisciplinary journals.
Seismic Constraints on Ocean-Ridge Mantle Structure: Anomalous Fault-Plane Solutions from First Motions

Summary Fault-plane solutions from P-wave first motion studies of earthquakes on the crests of actively spreading mid-ocean ridges often appear to have nonorthogonal nodal planes. This anomaly, together with independent data from surface waves and shear waves from such events, is most simply explained as an effect of propagation of the P waves through the laterally heterogeneous mantle beneath the ridge. P-wave velocity models for the ocean-ridge mantle are derived from temperature models, the phase diagram for wet peridotite, and the expected dependence of velocity on temperature and phase. Models that successfully account for the nodal plane non-orthogonality are characterized by pronounced lateral temperature gradients and extensive partial melting at temperatures in excess of the anhydrous peridotite solidus, in agreement with models for the petrogenesis of tholeiitic basalts and with evidence for a region of very low Q beneath ridge crests. The depth to the top of the partially molten region is not well constrained, but the half-width of the zone of extensive melting in the north Atlantic must be several tens of kilometres. A prediction of these calculations is a variation of the apparent non-orthogonality of nodaI planes with spreading rate for ridge-crest earthquakes; the limited data are consistent with this variation. The most promising tests of proposed velocity models include long seismic refraction profiles and studies of S-wave polarization. Body-wave travel-time residuals observed teleseismically from ocean-ridge earthquakes are predicted to be nearly independent of distance and azimuth and thus measurable only for events with independently determined origin times. There is a great deal of current interest in the structure of the upper mantle beneath mid-ocean ridges. Of special importance are inferences that can be made about mantle composition and temperature from observations of phase boundaries and lateral gradients of physical properties. The temperature field is in turn coupled to the flow pattern in the mantle, in particular to the radial extent of the zone of upwelling and to the vertical velocity of flow beneath the ridge axis. In this paper we show that a reasonable interpretation of several peculiar features of ridge-crest earthquakes allows some new constraints to be placed on the seismic velocity and temperature fields in the upper mantle beneath spreading centres. Normal-faulting earthquakes on the crests of mid-ocean ridges show an unusual characteristic which has been noted only in passing in the literature: Well-constrained fault-plane solutions derived from P-wave first motions indicate an apparent
The Process of Manufacturing Strategy: Some Empirical Observations and Conclusions

Manufacturing strategy has become a subject of increasing importance to practice and research. It involves two elements: content and process. The content of manufacturing strategy has recently received considerable attention. The process of manufacturing strategy has not received the same level of emphasis. There is little prescriptive literature on the subject, and even less literature of an empirical nature. It is argued that effective manufacturing strategy is inseparable from an effective process for the development of manufacturing strategy. This article provides some beginnings with regard to the process of manufacturing strategy by (1) exploring and drawing out concepts and methodologies in existing literature which can contribute to the process of manufacturing strategy, (2) reporting on an empirical study of the process of manufacturing strategy involving 53 manufacturing executives within organisations primarily from the midwest region of the USA, and (3) developing implications for future pract...
Electroabsorption in CdSe films

Abstract Measurements have been made on the optical absorption edge in vacuum evaporated CdSe films. The absorption edge, which is distorted due to the polycrystallive nature of the films, is observed to shift up to 0.02 eV under strong electric fields.
Human-Centered Design of a Spine Biopsy Simulator and the Effects of Visual and Force Feedback on Path-Tracking Performance

Computed tomography (CT)-directed needle biopsies are routinely performed to gather tissue samples near the spine. As currently practiced, this procedure requires a great deal of spatial reasoning, skill, and training on the part of the interventional radiologist. Our goal was to evaluate the procedure through a task analysis and to make recommendations as to how the procedure could be improved through technological intervention. To this end, a spine biopsy surgical simulator was developed to mimic the current procedure and to serve as a development testbed for procedure innovation. Our methods for looking at the biopsy procedure itself included a task analysis (which produces a detailed list of tasks needed to complete a goal, their order, and time to completion) and an evaluation of human performance measures related to our simulator interface. Experiments were run to examine the effects of force and visual feedback on path-tracking performance and to determine the effects of time delay in the visual feedback on path-tracking performance. Force feedback improved performance in the conditions with visual feedback and in the conditions with visual feedback and time delay.
Informed decisions in child welfare: The use of attachment theory

Abstract The purpose of this article is to help child welfare workers better understand and utilize attachment theory in their decision making with abused and neglected children. The authors review attachment theory, research on the effects of maltreatment on attachment, and research on foster care and attachment. Guidelines and specific interventions supporting children's secure attachments during involvement with the child welfare process (e.g., before placement, at time of placement, during placement, and at reunion) are provided.
Evaluating climatic and non-climatic influences on ion chemistry in natural and man-made lakes of Nebraska, USA

Conductivity and major ion chemistry data were analyzed for a suite of Nebraska (USA) natural lakes, reservoirs, sand pits, and barrow pits to evaluate the magnitude of climatic versus non-climatic influence on ionic concentration and composition. In both natural lakes and sand and barrow pits, conductivity is positively related to longitude and reflects decreasing effective moisture from east to west. Reservoirs showed no relationship between lake conductivity and location, probably because the reservoirs are very strongly influenced by groundwater and surface water inflow and have shorter residence times relative to the other lake types. At smaller spatial scales, conductivity among natural lakes is variable. Lakes that are at low elevation within a groundwater flow system were fresh, because of substantial input of fresh groundwater. In contrast, lakes at high elevation exhibited a wide range of conductivity, probably because of differences in the degree of connection to groundwater and surface to volume ratio impacts on evaporation rates. Differences also were evident among natural lakes in terms of their response to seasonal changes in precipitation. Sub-saline and saline lakes showed more seasonal variation in conductivity than freshwater lakes, and lakes in the more arid part of the state showed larger responses to precipitation change than those in areas to the east that receive higher precipitation.
The HIV-1 Nef protein has a dual role in T cell receptor signaling in infected CD4+ T lymphocytes

Abstract The phenotypic changes that are induced by immune activation in CD4 + T lymphocytes provide an optimal environment for efficient HIV-1 replication in these cells. The pathogenic Nef protein of HIV-1 modulates the T cell receptor (TCR) signaling, but whether this has a positive or negative effect on cellular activation is a matter of debate. Here we have investigated the response to TCR stimulation of primary CD4 + T lymphocytes infected with wt or Nef-deficient HIV-1. Results show that, in freshly isolated quiescent T cells, Nef superinduces NFAT and IL-2 production bypassing early TCR effector molecules. Conversely, the early phosphorylation of PLC-γ1, the induction of NFAT, and the expression of IL-2 are impaired by Nef in sub-optimally activated/resting T cells. Our data indicate that Nef has a dual role in the modulation of TCR signaling aimed at favoring HIV-1 replication and spread in both quiescent and metabolically active CD4 + T lymphocytes.
Effects of aging on nerve sprouting and regeneration

Abstract We examined the effects of aging on nerve terminal sprouting and regeneration in the peripheral nervous system. Motor end-plates were demonstrated in rat soleus muscles by means of a cholinesterase-silver stain which permitted measurement of end-plate length and nerve terminal branching. Terminal sprouting was elicited by “pharmacological denervation” brough about by botulinum toxin treatment. In the youngest (2-month-old) animals, the end-plates were small, and the terminals had simple branch patterns. Botulinum toxin treatment elicited a striking increase in end-plate length and terminal arborization. In the older (10- and 18-month-old) animals, the end-plate length was greater, and nerve terminal branching patterns were more complex. Botulinum toxin elicited a sprouting response that was less marked than in the youngest animals. In the oldest (28-month-old) animals, the end-plates were shorter and the terminals less complex. Botulinum failed to elicit any significant sprouting response. Regeneration of motor and sensory axons after a crush lesion of the sciatic nerve was measured using radiolabeled proteins carried by axonal transport as a marker of axonal outgrowth. Our results showed that the average rate of regeneration slowed with increasing age, although a small population of axons continued to regenerate rapidly regardless of age. Evidence implicating inherent defects in the ability of nerves to sprout and regenerate with increasing age is presented. Our findings in the peripheral nervous system may shed light on similar functional changes occurring in the central nervous system.
Low Energy Proton Irradiation of Silicon Surface Barrier Detectors

Capacitance-voltage curves and low temperature capacitance-recovery techniques are used to determine the defect generation rate and energy levels in the depletion region of surface barrier radiation detectors (Schottky diodes) irradiated with low energy(.2 - .4MeV) protons. The damage rate is about 1.3 × 10-2; net donor defects per proton, independent of energy. Most of the damage is created close to the end of the proton range. After room temperature stabilization energy levels were found at Ec - 0.24, Ev + .26, Ev + .32, and Ec - .47. The capture cross sections suggest that the second and fourth levels are donors and the third an acceptor. The fourth is the major level. Most of the damage anneals in the 100°C to 200°C range. These properties do not correlate well with the properties of the divacancy, a defect prominent in neutron irradiated silicon. The annealing behavior, on the other hand, suggest that the major defect is the Si P-3 defect.
Immunosuppression induced by staphylococcal enterotoxin B.

Abstract Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) is a potent mitogen for both human and murine T lymphocytes. We report here studies which demonstrate that a suppressor cell population, capable of suppressing the primary immune response of normal syngeneic mouse splenocytes to heterologous sheep erythrocytes (SRBC), is activated by SEB. Enterotoxin concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 5.0 Mg ml−1 are capable of activating this suppressor cell population, and significant suppression can be detected with relatively small numbers of SEB-primed spleen cells (SEB-PSC) in culture. Elimination of macrophages before or after priming splenocytes with SEB does not reduce the suppression of plaque-forming cell (PFC) responses when SEB-PSC are added to normal cells in Mishell-Dutton cultures. Treatment of cells with anti-Thy-1 serum plus complement, after priming with SEB, effectively eliminates the activity of the suppressor cell population. Enrichment for T cells before priming with SEB results in greater suppression of PFC responses than do SEB-PSC generated in cultures of nonfractionated splenocytes. Activation of suppressor cells with SEB in vitro appears to occur through the induction of the T-cell subpopulation expressing the Lyt-1−,2+,3+ cell surface phenotype, since selective depletion of this T-cell subpopulation with monoclonal rat anti-mouse Lyt-2 antisera after priming cells with SEB virtually eliminates the suppressor activity.
Path lengths and initial derivatives in arbitrary and Hessenberg compartmental systems

Abstract It is shown that if the matrix of an n -compartment system is upper Hessenberg (zero entries below the subdiagonal) and nonzero initial conditions exist in the first compartment only, then the solution for the n th compartment is β e 1 ∗ e 2 ∗…∗ e n where β is a constant, e i ( t )=exp(λ it ), λ i is the i th root of the matrix and ∗ denotes convolution. Conversely, the solution is a compartment can take this form only if the matrix of the system is Hessenberg (up to a permutational similarity). These results depend upon the relations which obtain among the distribution of zero entries in sequential powers of the matrix, the initial derivatives in the compartments, and the path length between compartments in the directed diagram of the system. These relations are developed and employed in an assessment of the product precursor criterion as proposed by Rescigno and Segre.
Comparison of solution schemes for black oil reservoir simulations with unstructured grids

This paper presents comparative results of the fully implicit, iterative IMPES, and sequential solution schemes for black oil reservoir simulations with unstructured grids. These schemes are verified and compared for field-scale models of both saturated and undersaturated reservoirs. The comparative results show that: (a) The fully implicit scheme is most stable and robust for both reservoirs, but has the highest memory and computational cost. (b) The sequential scheme takes much less memory and computational cost than the fully implicit scheme to reach the same precision for the undersaturated reservoirs, when the same iterative control parameters are used; however, for the saturated reservoirs, the sequential scheme must use stricter iterative control parameters to reach the same precision. (c) The iterative IMPES scheme is not a good choice for the black oil reservoir simulation.
Angiotensin II receptor blockers in the treatment of the cardiovascular disease continuum.

Abstract Background: The cardiovascular disease (CVD) continuum is a chain of events that begins with a host of risk factors, including dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, visceral obesity, and smoking. If left untreated, it might progress to atherosclerosis, left ventricular hypertrophy, coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, left ventricular remodeling, left ventricular enlargement, and eventually endstage heart disease and death. Initiation of treatment, at any stage in its course, might prevent or delay its further progression. Objective: This review discusses data from doubleblind, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that have investigated the effects of angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) on various stages of the CVD continuum. Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE was searched for relevant English-language double-blind RCTs using the years 1995 to 2008 and the terms angiotensin type II receptor blocker, renin-angiotensin system, hypertension, heart failure, left ventricular hypertropby, renal disease, stroke, and cerebrovascular disease . Results: A total of 13 studies were included in this review. The results suggest that ARB-based therapy has cardioprotective, cerebroprotective, and renoprotective effects, including regression of left ventricular hypertrophy, reduction in the risk of stroke, and slowing of the progression of renal disease. Conclusions: Treatment of CVD risk factors, including hypertension, is increasingly recognized as a way to interrupt the CVD continuum. Activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) contributes to the development and progression of CVD, and RAS blockade has been reported to be beneficial at all stages of the CVD continuum.
Primary malignant mixed müllerian mesodermal tumor mimicking a rectosigmoid carcinoma: a case report and review of the literature.

We report a case of a 53-year-old female who presented with chronic constipation and abdominal discomfort for six months. Her past surgical history was significant for a total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingooophorectomy, performed eight years ago, for uterine fibroids and endometriosis. Workup revealed a mass measuring 5 × 4.5 × 2 cm in the rectosigmoid colon. Patient underwent a low anterior resection and a fungating, centrally ulcerated rectosigmoid mass with a positive mesorectal margin was removed. Histopathology revealed a heterologous mixed mesodermal tumor (chondroid and osteoid elements). The epithelial component was compatible with a grade 2 endometrioid adenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemical stains were supportive, with positive expression for CK7 and ER, negative for CK20, and only very focally and weakly positive for both CDX2 and p63. Chromogranin, synaptophysin, and TTF-1 were negative. Following surgery, she was treated with five cycles of carboplatin (AUC 6) and paclitaxel (175 mg/m2), followed by irradiation. Twenty-six months later, patient continues to be asymptomatic and disease-free. Mixed mullerian mesodermal tumors mimicking colorectal cancer have been reported in the past. Our case highlights the rarity and the challenges encountered in diagnosing and treating these rare tumors.
RIGHT VENTRICULAR RESTRICTIVE PHYSIOLOGY IS ASSOCIATED WITH EXERCISE PERFORMANCE AND PULMONARY INSUFFICIENCY: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY OF ECHOCARDIOGRAM, CARDIAC MAGNETIC RESONANCE AND EXERCISE PERFORMANCE IN REPAIRED TETRALOGY OF FALLOT

Antegrade diastolic flow (ADF) in the pulmonary artery with atrial systole is thought to reflect restrictive right ventricular physiology in repaired tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). ADF is believed to have an inverse association with pulmonary insufficiency and to improved exercise performance.
The aggresome pathway as a target for therapy in hematologic malignancies.

Misfolded or unfolded proteins are often refolded with the help of chaperones or degraded by the 26S proteasome. An alternative fate of these proteins is the aggresome pathway. The microtubule-organizing center (MTOC) transports unfolded proteins to lysosomes and are degraded through autophagy. Histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) deacetylates α-tubulin, which is thought to be a component of the MTOC. Recently, two small molecule inhibitors of the aggresome pathway and HDAC6 have been described. One inhibitor, tubacin, prevents deacetylation of α-tubulin and produces accumulation of polyubiquitinated proteins and apoptosis. Tubacin acts synergistically with the proteasome inhibitor, bortezomib, to induce cytotoxicity in one type of hematologic malignancy, multiple myeloma. The other, LBH589, is a pan HDAC inhibitor and hydroxamic acid derivative that induces apoptosis of multiple myeloma cells resistant to conventional therapies. In this review, we summarize recent reports on targeting the aggresome pathway and HDAC6 in hematologic malignancies.
Application of the interleaved comb chopper to time-of-flight electron spectrometry

Abstract We examined the use of the interleaved comb chopper for time-of-flight electron spectrometry. Both static and dynamic behaviors are simulated theoretically and measured experimentally, with very good agreement. The finite penetration of the field beyond the plane of the chopper leads to non-ideal chopper response, which is characterized in terms of an “energy corruption” effect and a lead or lag in the time at which the beam responds to the chopper potential.
Characterization of damage mechanisms associated with reference point indentation in human bone

Abstract Measurement of bone mineral density (BMD) is the clinical gold standard in cases of compromised skeletal integrity, such as with osteoporosis. While BMD is a useful measurement to index skeletal health, it is also limited since it cannot directly assess any mechanical properties. The ability to directly assess mechanical properties of bone tissue would be clinically important. Reference point indentation (RPI) is a technology that has been designed to try and achieve this goal. While RPI has been shown to detect altered bone tissue properties, the underlying physical mechanism of these measurements has not been characterized. Thus, we designed a study whereby the contribution of (1) test cycle number and (2) test load level to RPI test-induced sub-surface damage was characterized and quantified. Standardized specimens were prepared from cadaveric human tibiae (n = 6), such that 12 replicates of each testing condition could be carried out. A custom rig was fabricated to accurately position and map indentation sites. One set of tests was carried out with 1, 5, 10, 15 and 20 cycles (Max Load: 8 N, Freq: 2 Hz), and a second set of tests was carried out with Load levels of 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 N (Cycle number: 20, Freq: 2 Hz). The RPI parameter Loading Slope (LS) was cycle dependent at 5, 10, 15 and 20 cycles ( p p p p