cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Restoring Balance to Internal Medicine Training: The Case for the Teaching Office Practice

Medical residents require an experience beyond the tertiary care hospital to understand many aspects of contemporary medical practice and to make informed career choices. To provide this balanced training, the University of Virginia has operated for 10 years an internal medicine teaching office practice to provide an outpatient experience similar to private practice. It allows residents to work closely with general internal medicine faculty and introduces them to the knowledge and skills necessary to establish and manage a successful practice. The curriculum of the 10 week rotation includes patient care in the office and by telephone, nursing home and home visits, tutorials and seminars on primary care and office management topics, and training in the use of microcomputers. A survey of 46 (92%) of the first 50 residents completing the rotation revealed that the content of the rotation was valuable, the rotation substantially influenced career choices, and the rotation helped provide a balanced view of internal medicine practice.
Abstract 3204: Association between oxidative damage and early adverse skin reactions following postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy in breast cancer patients

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in American women. Lumpectomy followed by radiotherapy (RT) has significantly improved survival. However, about 30% of patients develop a grade 2 or worse early or late skin reaction, pain, breast edema and poor cosmetic results that impact quality of life. Inter-individual variability in the development of RT-induced adverse reactions in normal tissue is well-documented for both acute and late effects. Therefore, identifying individuals which may have severe reactions could assist the radiation oncologist in tailoring a treatment regimen which provides adequate care with minimal undesirable effects. One of the hallmarks of radiation induced DNA damage is the oxidation of the nucleotide guanine. Repair and excretion of this modified base known as 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) serves as a biomarker of oxidative stress and DNA damage. In an ongoing study, we investigated the urinary level of 8-OHdG (presented as ng/mg creatinine) in urine of the first 103 breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant RT following breast conservation surgery. The normal skin toxicity at 3 weeks and at the end of treatment was assessed and associated with 8-OHdG levels. There was a significant correlation between pre- (55.8+35.2) and post-RT (55.5+37.4) urinary 8-OHdG levels (Pearson correlation coefficient=0.44; p<0.001). Within our patient population, Non-Hispanic Whites had a significantly higher 8-OHdG level (80.9+52.6) compared to Hispanic Whites (48.2+25.2, p=0.001) and Black or African Americans (43.7+20.9, p=0.008). With limited sample size, at 3 weeks of post-RT, patients with no apparent skin reaction showed a non-significantly lower pre-RT 8-OHdG (46.4+23.5) compared to patients with a grade 1 or 2 skin toxicity (57.8+37.5, p=0.18). Similar trend was also observed for post-RT 8-OHdG (45.6+20.7 vs. 57.7+40.3; p=.20). At the end of RT, patients with detectable skin toxicity had a baseline 8-OHdG level of 56.0+35.6 while patients without a skin reaction had a baseline level of 39.6+17.6. In summary, our preliminary data with limited sample size showed significant racial/ethnic differences in urinary 8-OHdG levels and promising but not significant association between 8-OHdG levels and skin toxicity grade. Larger studies are warranted to validate these interesting findings. The outcome of the ongoing study (n=1000) will target effective intervention and treatment strategies, and ultimately improve quality of life and progression-free survival in high-risk breast cancer patient populations. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3204. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-3204
Screening antisera for subtype specificity based on immunoblotting of lectin-affinity electrophoresis: application toward alpha-fetoprotein subfractions.

We adapted a method for evaluating monoclonal antibody specificity toward isoforms and examined 29 alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) antibodies from Hybritech. These antibodies were separated by affinity electrophoresis on agarose-containing erythroagglutinating phytohemagglutinin (PHA-E) followed by immunoblotting onto nitrocellulose. Under these conditions, AFP separates into four subfractions: NR (nonreactive with PHA-E), WR (reactive weakly), RS2 (strongly reactive), and RS1 (very strongly reactive). When polyclonal goat anti-AFP control was used as the test antibody, the distribution of amniotic fluid AFP was approximately 50°h, 31%, 12%, and 7% for NR, WR, RS2, and RS1, respectively. The distribution for these same bands from the serum of a patient with hepatocellular carcinoma was 39%, 31 %, 30%, and 0%; from the serum of a patient with embryonal carcinoma, it was 29%, 38%, 0%, and 33%, respectively. Twenty-six monoclonal antibodies, including the two used in the Hybritech Tandem-E assay for AFP, showed similar distribution, while the remaining three antibodies showed no reactivity to any of the AFP antigens in this system. Although we were not able to demonstrate any specificity of these anti-sera toward any single AFP isoform, use of this affinity electrophoresis system provides a model for studying isoform specificity of other AFP antibodies and other antibody-antigen systems.
Violent Victimization in the Community and Children’s Subsequent Peer Rejection: The Mediating Role of Emotion Dysregulation

This paper describes a short-term longitudinal study of the relation between violent victimization in the community and peer rejection among 199 children (mean age = 9.02 years) attending two urban Los Angeles area elementary schools. We used a multi-informant approach to assess victimization by community violence, peer group victimization, peer rejection, and impairments in emotion regulation. These data were collected annually for two consecutive school years. Violent victimization in the community predicted later peer rejection after accounting for the effects of initial levels of peer rejection. Analyses indicated that this relation was mediated by deficient emotion regulation skills. In addition, we found evidence that victimization by community violence and peer rejection are reciprocally related over time. The developmental implications of these findings are discussed.
Yersinia controls type III effector delivery into host cells by modulating Rho activity.

Yersinia pseudotuberculosis binds to β1 integrin receptors, and uses the type III secretion proteins YopB and YopD to introduce pores and to translocate Yop effectors directly into host cells. Y. pseudotuberculosis lacking effectors that inhibit Rho GTPases, YopE and YopT, have high pore forming activity. Here, we present evidence that Y. pseudotuberculosis selectively modulates Rho activity to induce cellular changes that control pore formation and effector translocation. Inhibition of actin polymerization decreased pore formation and YopE translocation in HeLa cells infected with Y. pseudotuberculosis. Inactivation of Rho, Rac, and Cdc42 by treatment with Clostridium difficile toxin B inhibited pore formation and YopE translocation in infected HeLa cells. Expression of a dominant negative form of Rac did not reduce the uptake of membrane impermeable dyes in HeLa cells infected with a pore forming strain YopEHJT−. Similarly, the Rac inhibitor NSC23766 did not decrease pore formation or translocation, although it efficiently hindered Rac-dependent bacterial uptake. In contrast, C. botulinum C3 potently reduced pore formation and translocation, implicating Rho A, B, and/or C in the control of the Yop delivery. An invasin mutant (Y. pseudotuberculosis invD911E) that binds to β1 integrins, but inefficiently transduces signals through the receptors, was defective for YopE translocation. Interfering with the β1 integrin signaling pathway, by inhibiting Src kinase activity, negatively affected YopE translocation. Additionally, Y. pseudotuberculosis infection activated Rho by a mechanism that was dependent on YopB and on high affinity bacteria interaction with β1 integrin receptors. We propose that Rho activation, mediated by signals triggered by the YopB/YopD translocon and from engagement of β1 integrin receptors, stimulates actin polymerization and activates the translocation process, and that once the Yops are translocated, the action of YopE or YopT terminate delivery of Yops and prevents pore formation.
Josephson junctions with bulk YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7-x/, Bi/sub 2/Sr/sub 2/CaCu/sub 2/O/sub x/ and Tl/sub 2/Ca/sub 2/Ba/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 10+x/

The characteristics of point contacts with combinations of Pb, YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7-x/, Bi/sub 2/Sr/sub 2/CaCu/sub 2/O/sub x/, (YBCO), (BSCCO), and Tl/sub 2/Ca/sub 2/Ba/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 10+x/ (TCBCO) have been measured in a shielded liquid helium dewar. Zero-voltage currents were found in all arrangements; diffraction patterns in the voltage-flux curves were observed with all materials. Electron pairs were confirmed as carriers in all investigated high-T/sub c/ materials. All junctions resembled weak-link bridge structures rather than tunnel junctions. Despite strong shunting, hysteresis was found in the I-V curves of some point contacts. A structure of unknown origin was found in the I-V curves of YBCO-BSCCO junctions. Both YBCO-YBCO and BSCCO-BSCCO junctions had much lower normal resistances and considerably higher critical currents than YBCO-BSCCO point contacts. The reason for this phenomenon is not yet understood. >
Caged chemotactic peptides

This work has as its ultimate goal the creation of a concentration spike of a chemoattractant peptide in a time-resolved and spatially defined way using a light pulse. This strategy requires "caging" the peptide with a photochemically removable group. Model studies used alanine ethyl ester in reductive amination with nitrobenzaldehydes to form two different N-nitrobenzyl derivatives. An fMLF peptide bearing these two N-terminal nitrobenzyl groups was also prepared. The yield and kinetics of their deprotection to return the fMLF peptide were determined. It was established that the caged peptides have vastly reduced biological activity as chemoattractants, as designed.
Engineering and analysis of a self-sufficient biosynthetic cytochrome P450 PikC fused to the RhFRED reductase domain.

Cytochrome P450 enzymes mediate important oxidative processes in biological systems including regio- and stereospecific hydroxylation and epoxidation reactions. The inherent requirement of these biomolecules for separate redox partner(s) significantly limits their application in biotechnology. To address this challenge, naturally occurring and/or bioengineered self-sufficient P450 systems with covalently fused redox partners have been utilized to harness their catalytic power. In this study, we describe the first in vitro characterization of a bacterial biosynthetic cytochrome P450 PikC fused to a heterologous reductase domain RhFRED that demonstrates single-component self-sufficiency. This novel fusion system not only produces a more active and effective biocatalyst but also suggests a general design for a universal reductase to generate diverse self-sufficient fusions for functional identification or industrial applications of biosynthetic P450s.
Chemicals and cancer in humans: first evidence in experimental animals

Certain human diseases have been traced to exposure to environmental and occupational chemicals. In many instances the first evidence of potential adverse effects came from experimental studies and were subsequently discovered in humans. Associations of human cancers, as a diverse group of diseases, and chemicals have been made since the middle 1700s. Since then, nearly 100 chemicals, mixtures of chemicals, or exposure circumstances are now recognized as being or strongly implicated as being carcinogenic to humans. Of the less than 1000 agents evaluated adequately for carcinogenicity in laboratory animals, a varying spectrum of data from studies on humans are available for only about 20-25%. So far, more than 60 agents are linked unequivocally as causing cancer in humans, and another 50 or so are strongly suspected of being carcinogenic to humans. Not all of these have been or can be evaluated in animals because some are industrial processes or "occupations," some are environmental and cultural risk factors, and some are mixtures of agents. For those that can be studied experimentally, the qualitative concordance between humans and animals approaches unity, and in every case there is at least one common organ site of cancer in both species. The evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals preceded that observed in humans for nearly 30 agents and is the subject of this paper.
Organizational Change, Stress and Job Satisfaction: Three Empirically Derived Models

Organizational change is a widespread phenomenon; whether it be downsizing, restructuring, or a change in geographical location, changes affect the people involved in many ways. This research is aimed at assessing how such changes affect the members of organizations in both the private and the public sector. This information was collected from those at the top level who may have had a hand in the decision-making process and the planning of the change, as well as from those who work in the changing environment. A model of organizational change and stress is proposed and empirically investigated. Role conflict, role ambiguity, job satisfaction, expected value of change and their impact on stress was explored in five organizations undergoing different degrees of organizational change. Multiple regression and path analyses identified three alternative models.
New inhibitors of dopamine β-hydroxylase

Abstract A32390A, 1,6-di-O-(2-isocyano-3-methylcrotonyl)- d -mannitol, obtained from fermentation broths of a species of Pyrenochaeta , inhibited DBH in vitro and lowered heart norepinephrine levels in vivo in rats. A32390A had less effect on adrenal catecholamine levels and did not lower brain norepinephrine levels. Associated with the inhibition of norepinephrine synthesis in vivo was a reduction of blood pressure by A32390A in DOCA hypertensive rats. Although A32390A was effective when given by either intraperitoneal or subcutaneous injection, it did not lower norepinephrine levels or blood pressure when given orally. CHMI (1-cyclohexyl-2-mercapto-imidazole) was the most active among several methimazole derivatives studied as a DBH inhibitor that reduced norepinephrine levels preferentially in brain. The initial decline in brain norepinephrine levels following CHMI injection could be used as an index of norepinephrine turnover. Lowering of brain norepinephrine levels by CHMI on the second day of proestrus in female rats prevented the surge of plasma LH levels that normally occurred on the afternoon of proestrus.
A tenth-order theory of stretching of transversely isotropic sheets

The problem of determining three-dimensional Poisson's ratio effect corrections for two-dimensional plane stress theory is solved approximately by assuming equilibrium stress systems with parabolic variations in thickness direction of the primary face-parallel stresses. An application of a variational theorem for stresses and displacements is shown to lead to a tenth-order system of two-dimensional differential equations for stress measures and certain weighted averages of displacements components. It is further shown that the solution of the tenth-order system can be expressed in terms of a bi-harmonic function, in conjunction with the solutions of one second-order and one fourth-order differential equation, involving Laplace operators only.
Dysfunctional Voltage-Gated K+ Channels in Pulmonary Artery Smooth Muscle Cells of Patients With Primary Pulmonary Hypertension

Background—Primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) is a rare disease of unknown cause. Although PPH and secondary pulmonary hypertension (SPH) share many clinical and pathological characteristics, their origins may be disparate. In pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs), the activity of voltage-gated K+ (KV) channels governs membrane potential (Em) and regulates cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt). A rise in [Ca2+]cyt is a trigger of vasoconstriction and a stimulus of smooth muscle proliferation. Methods and Results—Fluorescence microscopy and patch clamp techniques were used to measure [Ca2+]cyt, Em, and KV currents in PASMCs. Mean pulmonary arterial pressures were comparable (46±4 and 53±4 mm Hg; P=0.30) in SPH and PPH patients. However, PPH-PASMCs had a higher resting [Ca2+]cyt than cells from patients with SPH and nonpulmonary hypertension disease. Consistently, PPH-PASMCs had a more depolarized Em than SPH-PASMCs. Furthermore, KV currents were significantly diminished in PPH-PASMCs. Bec...
Optimization of the Sefid-Roud Dam desiltation process using a sophisticated one-dimensional numerical model

Abstract Although water and soil conservation activities reduce reservoir sedimentation, it is inevitable that reservoirs fed by rivers transporting high amounts of sediment will experience sedimentation. The Ghezel-Ozan and Shah-Roud rivers, which flow to the Sefid-Roud reservoir dam, are both highly sediment-laden and transport significant amounts of sediment in both bed load and suspended load forms to the reservoir. Hence, it seems that the only practical way to remove the sediment from the reservoir is to flush it out using the Chasse method. In the present paper, field measurements of Chasse operation characteristics taken in previous years are presented, and a numerical model that simulates this process is introduced. After calibrating the model using field measured data, the calculated results (for reservoir pressure flushing and released sediment volume) of the numerical model were compared with other measured data for the same Chasse operation and the results agree well. Finally, using the numerical simulation results, the best approaches to ensure highly effective flushing while conserving reservoir water are presented (at least for the Sefid-Roud dam). The operation of the bottom outlet gates, the shape of the output hydrograph, and the reservoir water level variation during flushing were optimized. In addition, the numerical model and related parameters, which need to be calibrated, are discussed.
Daily temporal dynamics of vaginal microbiota before, during and after episodes of bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common gynecologic diagnosis characterized by dysbiosis of the vaginal microbiota. It is often accompanied by vaginal symptoms such as odor and discharge, but can be asymptomatic. Despite over 50 years of research, the etiology of BV is not well understood, which is a major impediment to treatment and prevention of BV. Here we report on the temporal dynamics of 25 vaginal communities over a 10 week period using samples collected daily from women who were diagnosed with symptomatic BV (15 women), asymptomatic BV (6 women), and women who did not have BV (4 women). This unique resource of samples and data will contribute to a better understanding of the role that the vaginal microbes have in the natural history of BV and lead to improved diagnosis and treatment.
State Rainy Day Funds and the State Budget Crisis of 2002

U.S. states entered the 2001 recession better prepared than for any recession in recent decades. Forty-seven states had established rainy day funds, which when added to general fund balances amounted to over 12 percent of annual expenditures. Despite this, the National Governors Association has said that states face the most dire fiscal situation since World War II (NGA, 2002a). We consider five potential explanations for this discrepancy: (1) state budget crises are exaggerated, (2) state tax bases have changed, (3) state rainy day savings replace existing savings, (4) state savings are dwarfed by state budget cycles, and (5) a late-1990s tax revenue bubble.
Coupling tree-ring δ13C and δ15N to test the effect of fertilization on mature Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca) stands across the Interior northwest, USA

Nitrogen (N) fertilization causes long-term increases in biomass production in many N-limited forests around the world, but the mechanistic basis underlying the increase is often unclear. One possibility, especially in summer-dry climates, is that N fertilization increases the efficiency with which a finite water supply is consumed to support photosynthesis. This increase is achieved by a reduction in the canopy-integrated concentration of internal CO(2) and thus discrimination against (13)C. We used stable isotopes of carbon (delta(13)C) in tree rings to experimentally test the physiological impact of N fertilization on mature Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii Franco var. glauca) stands across the geographic extent of the Intermountain West, USA. The concentration and the stable isotopes of N (delta(15)N) in tree rings were also used to assess the presence and activity of fertilizer N. We hypothesized that N fertilization would (i) increase delta(15)N and N concentration of stemwood relative to non-fertilized stands and (ii) increase stemwood delta(13)C as photosynthetic gas exchange responded to the additional N. This experiment included two rates of urea addition, 178 kg ha(-1) (low) and 357 kg ha(-1) (high), which were applied twice over a 6-year interval bracketed by the 18 years of wood production measured in this study. Foliar N concentrations measured the year after each fertilization treatment suggest that the fertilizer N had been assimilated by the trees (P < 0.001). The N fertilization significantly enriched stemwood delta(15)N by 1.3 per thousand at the low fertilization rate and by 2.4 per thousand at the high rate (P < 0.001) despite variation in soil N between sites. However, we found no significant effect of the N fertilizer on delta(13)C of the annual rings (P = 0.76). These data lead us to suggest that alternative mechanisms underlie the growth response to fertilizer, i.e., increase in canopy area and shifts in biomass allocation.
A Typology for the Study of Entertainment Television and Politics

General questions concerning the role of entertainment media in politics permeated the 2004 election cycle. Political communication scholars are beginning to systematically analyze potential sociopolitical ramifications stemming from entertainment television viewing, but one difficulty with this emerging area of research is an inability to forge connections between seemingly disparate research agendas. Several distinct lines of research are summarized in this article and forged into a coherent whole through the lens of Zillmann's disposition theory and the broader study of media enjoyment. Extantworks devoted to the study of entertainment television and politics are summarized, and a ninepart typology is introduced. This article closes with a discussion of howthe typology can serve to advance the study of entertainment television and politics.
Streptococcus gallolyticus, Infective Endocarditis, and Colon Carcinoma: New Light on an Intriguing Coincidence

In this issue of the Journal ,B oleij and colleagues [6] provide important data pointing to several virulence characteristics of SG that may play key roles in the pathogenesis of this remarkably adaptable organism. These investigators replicated the route of SG infection in vitro by using differentiated human epithelial colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (Caco-2) in a series of assays focusing on both bacterial and host cell responses. These studies focused on SG adhesion, invasion, translocation, biofilm formation, and ability to elicit an immune response in order to identify virulence characteristics that could provide an explanation for the link between SG IE and colon carcinoma. The results of this work suggest that this species of bacteria is uniquely able to translocate in a paracellular fashion across malignant intestinal epithelium without eliciting a significant immune response and then adhere to collagenrich surfaces and form biofilms. These data are exciting in that they address the key putative first steps in the dissemination of the bacteria from the gut environment to the bloodstream and ultimately to other locations more favorable for colonization, such as collagen-rich surfaces of cardiac valves. Future studies can now build on this work by focusing on specific virulence factors responsible for these specific characteristics observed for SG, but not for other related streptococci and other far more numerous bacterial species inhabiting the gut.
Rekindling the Fire of Transformative Education: A Participatory Case Study

A growing consensus is emerging among transformative educators about the need for an integral education that incorporates all human dimensions—body, vital, heart, mind, and spirit—into the learning...
Medication Barriers Predict Adolescent Transplant Recipients’ Adherence and Clinical Outcomes at 18-Month Follow-up

Objective To prospectively validate the Parent and Adolescent Medication Barriers Scales (PMBS and AMBS) for assessing perceived barriers to medication adherence in adolescent transplant recipients by examining the relations of perceived barriers to medication adherence and clinical outcomes at 18-month follow-up. Methods Of the 82 adolescent recipients enrolled in the initial cohort, 66 families participated in the follow-up. Relations among barriers, adherence, and clinical outcomes were examined. Results Reported barriers demonstrated temporal stability over an extended span of time. Adolescent-perceived barriers of Disease Frustration/Adolescent Issues and parent-perceived barriers of Regimen Adaptation/Cognitive Issues were associated with poorer adherence to medication taking at follow-up. Interestingly, medical complications and mortality were significantly associated with both parent and adolescent-perceived ingestion issues barriers. Conclusions Barriers to adherence are essential to address in an effort to ameliorate adherence difficulties and potentially reduce the incidence of medical complications.
West Nile virus: lessons from the 21st century

Introduction: West Nile virus (WNV) first appeared in the United States in 1999, causing illness and death in birds, horses, and humans. While the initial outbreak of this sometimes deadly viral disease was limited to the northeastern United States, the virus had an inexorable migration across the continental United States over the next 3 years, causing huge losses among the affected species. The purpose of this review is to present currently available information regarding the epi-demiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of WNV infection. Veterinarians, particularly those in an emergency practice, serve as an important source of reliable information regarding this disease for animal owners and the public in general. Data sources: Data sources used for the preparation of this review include computer-based searches of PubMed and Commonwealth Agricultural Bureaux (CAB) abstracts. A search in PubMed using ‘West Nile’ retrieved 1468 ‘hits’ or references, while a similar search in CAB abstracts produced 815 references. Additional information was obtained from various meeting proceedings, particularly data presented in abstract form, and from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website dedicated to WNV. Human data synthesis: Prior to the mid-1990s, reported large-scale epidemics of WNV infection in humans predominantly presented as acute, mild, febrile disease, sometimes associated with lymphadenopathy and skin rash. The recent large epidemic in the United States, in contrast, has prominently featured encephalitis, particularly among the elderly. Additionally, polio-encephalomyelitis-like complications resulting in long-term neurologic sequelae have been reported. There are many WNV-permissive native avian and mosquito hosts in the Unites States and there appear to be few limitations to the spread of the disease in the United States. It is expected that the virus will be identified in all 48 continental states, Mexico, and Canada by the end of 2003. Veterinary data synthesis: The horse is the animal species most affected by the recent WNV epidemic in the United States, and losses to the equine industry have been large and unprecedented. A United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)-approved vaccine against WNV has been in use in horses since 2001 and appears to be effective in limiting the incidence of disease in well-vaccinated populations. WNV infection has been documented in other species of mammals, including camelids (alpaca/llamas) and dogs, and veterinarians should include WNV as a differential diagnosis for animals presenting with clinical signs consistent with central nervous system infection. A large concern exists for endangered bird populations, particularly birds of prey, whether in zoos or in the wild.
A note on the derivative constraints for minimum variance beamforming

A novel set of first and second order derivative constraints is presented which can be used in minimum variance beamformers to achieve flat main beam responses. In contrast to other derivative constraint methods which constrain both the magnitude and phase responses of the beamformer, the method only constrains the magnitude response. The constraint on the phase is shown to be the reason that the conventional magnitude-phase derivative constraint methods are sensitive to the location of the spatial reference point used to define the array element positions. This problem, which is a major drawback of the conventional methods, is eliminated in the new approach. A simulation example which illustrates the superiority of the approach is given. >
AN ANTHROPOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE FOR SOCIAL STUDIES

[Ed. Note: It seems that anthropologists who come into the schools to aid in curricular projects based on anthropology are usually led, sooner or later, to look at the schools as objects of ethnographic study. We might now claim, on the basis of this paper, that the reverse process also holds. Long associated with anthropological research on education, schools, and the community, Kimball is led to suggest a practical alternative conceptual framework for the social studies curriculum. ]
Scalable self-assembly and self-repair in a collective of robots

A collective of robots can together complete a task that is beyond the capabilities of any of its individual robots. One property of a robotic collective that allows it to complete such a task is the shape of the collective.
Automated training sample labeling using laboratory spectra

This paper presents a method for automatically labeling training samples in mineral identification problems. A previous work showed that an experienced human operator can successfully identify training samples by visually comparing the strong absorption features of the laboratory spectra to those of the adjusted remotely sensed spectra. However, it is obviously a time-consuming process. The purpose of this research is to automate the labeling process. The method proposed in this paper consists of a data preprocessor and correlation detection. This data preprocessor is used for shape adjustment and scale unification. It includes three parts: (1) the log residue method; (2) reference level setting; (3) signal normalization. The desired number of training samples can be specified to guarantee that enough training samples are drawn from the data set. After training samples are labeled, a series of statistical pattern recognition analysis methods are applied to the original remotely sensed data set to do classification. The data set used in the paper is Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) data taken over the Cuprite mining District, Nevada in 1992. The result is compared to a previous work that requires a human operator to visually label training samples and a rough geologic ground truth map. It shows that this automated labeling method not only saves human laboring but also achieves a fair performance of classification.
Separation of Tetrahydrofuran from Aqueous Mixtures by Pervaporation

Abstract Studies on the separation of tetrahydrofuran (THF) and water by pervaporation were conducted. A silicalite-filled silicone composite membrane was used for organic permeation and a polyvinyl alcohol composite membrane for dehydration. Effects of feed concentration, feed temperature, permeate-side pressure, and type of membrane were studied. The silicone composite membrane yielded a selectivity of 205 and a THF flux of 1.1 kg/m2·h at benchmark conditions of 50°C feed temperature, 2 torr permeate-side pressure, and a feed concentration of 4.4% w/w THF. An increase in temperature increased the flux exponentially in an Arrhenius-type manner, but had little effect on selectivity. These data show that the trend agrees with an Arrhenius-type relationship. An increase in feed concentration increased the flux, but the selectivity for THF decreased. As the permeate-side pressure increased, the flux decreased in a sigmoidal fashion, but the selectivity for THF increased. Some initial studies on dehydration w...
Patient acceptance of endovaginal ultrasound.

Objective To assess women’s experiences and attitudes regarding endovaginal ultrasound. Methods Women attending the obstetrics and gynecology clinics at the University of Florida were asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire. Results Of respondents who had had a prior endovaginal ultrasound examination, 26% reported that ‘it hurt a lot’ and 50% reported that ‘it hurt a little’. In contrast, only 23% of patients had experienced any pain with a prior abdominal ultrasound (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that discomfort with a prior vaginal ultrasound was related to patient age category, with less discomfort being experienced with increasing ages (P = 0.001). A history of unwanted sex, sexual or physical abuse, or dyspareunia was not associated with more painful examinations. Most patients were willing to undergo a future vaginal ultrasound investigation if it were recommended by their doctor. Multivariate analysis showed that more willingness was associated with older age category (P = 0.004), a history of dyspareunia (P = 0.03) and bleeding in a current pregnancy (P = 0.005). Of the patients (less than half) who had a preference, most preferred a female sonographer for endovaginal sonography (P < 0.001) and most preferred that a doctor, rather than a nurse or technician, perform the examination (P < 0.001). Conclusions The majority of women who had experienced a vaginal ultrasound examination found it somewhat uncomfortable, but almost all women who returned the questionnaire expressed a willingness to undergo endovaginal ultrasound if it were recommended.
roX RNAs are required for increased expression of X-linked genes in Drosophila melanogaster males

The male-specific lethal (MSL) ribonucleoprotein complex is necessary for equalization of X:A expression levels in Drosophila males, which have a single X chromosome. It binds selectively to the male X chromosome and directs acetylation of histone H4 at lysine 16 (H4Ac16), a modification linked to elevated transcription. roX1 and roX2 noncoding RNAs are essential but redundant components of this complex. Simultaneous removal of both roX RNAs reduces X localization of the MSL proteins and permits their ectopic binding to autosomal sites and the chromocenter. However, the MSL proteins still colocalize, and low levels of H4Ac16 are detected at ectopic sites of MSL binding and residual sites on the X chromosome of roX1− roX2− males. Microarray analysis was performed to reveal the effect of roX1 and roX2 elimination on X-linked and autosomal gene expression. Expression of the X chromosome is decreased by 26% in roX1− roX2−male larvae. Enhanced expression could not be detected at autosomal sites of MSL binding in roX1− roX2− males. These results implicate failure to compensate X-linked genes, rather than inappropriate upregulation of autosomal genes at ectopic sites of MSL binding, as the primary cause of male lethality upon loss of roX RNAs.
Investigation of Misfire in a Fast Burn Spark Ignition Engine

Abstract A methodology is presented for determining the minimum energy condition for a spark ignition engine for given inlet conditions and ignition system. This is accomplished with a new misfire detection technique which yields good repeatability. The effects of changes in the equivalence ratio, turbulence level, and residual gas fraction are investigated. A simplified thermal ignition model is evaluated at the experimentally determined ignition limits. The model is unable to satisfactorily predict the effect of engine speed changes. The results suggest that the use of a fully developed value for the eddy diffusivity during the ignition process is invalid in spark ignition engines.
Psoriasis herpeticum: Three cases of Kaposi's varicelliform eruption in psoriasis

Background Kaposi's varicelliform eruption (KVE), first described in 1887 by Moritz Kaposi, refers to a disseminated cutaneous infection with herpesvirus type 1 or 2, vaccinia virus, or coxsackievirus A16 in a patient with another underlying dermatosis. When herpesvirus type 1 or 2 is the pathogenic virus, the term "eczema herpeticum" is used, independent of the underlying dermatologic diagnosis that preceded the eruption. KVE is most often seen in patients with underlying atopic dermatitis, but has also been seen in association with other papulosquamous and acantholytic disorders. However, eczema herpeticum rarely occurs in patients with psoriasis. Observations We present the clinical and laboratory findings of three patients in whom KVE developed during inpatient hospitalization for a psoriatic flare. These patients each had comorbidities that may have increased susceptibility to KVE. Conclusions KVE may rarely occur in patients with psoriasis. Erythroderma, systemic sepsis, therapy with immunosuppressant drugs, such as methotrexate and systemic steroids, and therapy with systemic retinoids may possibly increase susceptibility to KVE.
Hunting and Gathering in Tropical Rain Forest: Is It Possible?

Hunters and gatherers living in tropical forests represent an important part of the total range of variation among contemporary hunting and gathering societies. Studies of tropical forest hunting and gathering peoples have contributed to our perceptions of the foraging way of life. Yet no peoples have ever been directly observed living independently of agriculture in tropical rain forest. This article tests the hypothesis that humans do not exist nor have ever existed independently of agriculture in tropical rain forest. We find no convincing ethnographic evidence and, with the possible exception of Malaysia, no archeological evidence for pure foragers in undisturbed tropical rain forests. Negative evidence cannot be conclusive, but it suggests that we need to carefully reexamine common assumptions concerning the recent history of tropical forest dwellers, the adaptability of preagricultural humans, the geographic and environmental range of hominids, and the form and consequences of selection pressures acting on humans in warm, humid environments. The overriding purpose of this article is to stimulate further ecological and archeological research in the neglected tropical forest areas of the world.
Themes of loss and dying in caring for a family member with AIDS

The study purpose was to provide an in-depth description of experiences associated with loss and dying among AIDS family caregivers. Grounded theory provided the methodological framework for data collection and analysis. In-depth interviews were conducted with 53 family caregivers of persons with AIDS and included individuals from family of origin and family of choice. Living with loss and dying was identified as a major substantive category and was further explicated in two subcategories: facing loss and transformed time. Common strategies of caregivers included taking one day at a time, living fully in the present, and actualizing future dreams. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Use of Three Dimensional Imaging to Perform Aircraft Composite Inspection: Proof of Concept

The Boeing Commercial Aircraft Company's 787 is the first commercial airliner with a large number of its structural components made of composite material. The Airbus A350 will follow by 2013. Composite material has been incorporated in airliners for many years. Composites have great advantages as a material of construction for aircraft. It has a high strength to weight ratio and the resulting aircraft weighs significantly less, producing a fuel savings. Composite materials have been associated with aircraft accidents as well. For instance, in the accident involving American Airlines Flight 587 the tail fin of an Airbus A300-605R came off the aircraft after takeoff from JFK Airport. Visual inspection is the primary means of detecting composite damage. However, in remote locations in the world where commercial airliners fly there might not be trained inspectors who can adequately inspect composite structure for damage. In this paper we discuss how we used LIDAR scans of a composite test article projected in a three (3) dimensional, immersive environment to determine whether we could see surface damage. Our proof of concept experiment showed that we could see all the damage we had inflicted on the part, along with some of the existing damage on the test article. The combination of the two technologies, LIDAR and three (3) dimensional, immersive environments, have great promise in providing means to visually inspect composite materials under a variety of conditions.
Impact of positive psychological capital on employee well-being over time.

The recently recognized core construct of psychological capital or PsyCap (consisting of the positive psychological resources of efficacy, hope, optimism, and resilience) has been demonstrated to be related to various employee attitudinal, behavioral, and per formance outcomes. However, to date, the impact of this positive core construct over time and on important employee well-being outcomes has not been tested. This study meets this need by analyzing the relationship between a broad cross-section of employees’ (N = 280) level of PsyCap and two measures of psychological well-being over time. The results indicated that employees’ PsyCap was related to both measures of well-being and, importantly, that PsyCap explained additional variance in these well-being measures over time. The limitations, needed future research, and practical implications conclude the article.
Le Cam at Berkeley

Written in appreciation of the pleasure and many benefits I have received from over forty years of friendship and collegiality with Lucien Le Cam.
Depth Sensitivity of Atomic Resolution Aberration-Corrected Through-Focus STEM Imaging of Bi Dopants on Cu Grain Boundaries

A complete 3-dimensional view of materials at an atomic level has long been a goal of modern electron microscopy. Difficulties in obtaining 3-dimensinal images of materials at this high magnification level without the loss or distortion of information has been a challenge yet to be overcome [1]. The advent of an aberration-correction scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) equipped with a cold fieldemission electron source has allowed much higher beam convergence angles to be utilized without parasitic aberration degrading image quality [2]. The benefit of using a higher beam convergence angle is two-fold: first, the higher convergence angle offers an improved lateral resolution as lateral resolution is inversely proportional to the beam convergence semi-angle, and second, the vertical resolution (along the optic axis) is improved as the vertical resolution is inversely proportional to the square of the beam convergence semi-angle. With these benefits large convergence angles are increasingly being used for STEM imaging in aberration-corrected systems.
FABRICATION AND MODIFICATION OF IMPLANTABLE MICRO- PROBES FOR NEURO-STUDIES

In this work, implantable micro-probes for central nervous system (CNS) studies were developed on different types of substrates. The probes which contain a micro-electrode array were designed with several lengths for implantation in different locations of the CNS. The electrode surfaces were modified with nano-scale structures, which could increase the active surface area, in order to enhance the electrochemical performance while maintaining micro-scale dimensions of the sensor probes. The electrodes were made of gold or platinum, and have dimensions of 50×100 μm 2 or 20×40 μm 2 . The silicon probes were modified by nanowires fabricated with the vapor liquid solid mechanism at high temperatures. With polyimide substrates, the nanostructure modification was carried out by applying concentrated gold or silver colloid solutions onto the micro electrodes at the room temperature. The surfaces of electrodes before and after modification were observed and characterized by scanning electron microscopy and cyclic voltammetry. Various experiments were carried out to investigate the improvement in performance with nanostructures. The electrodes were calibrated with H2O2, and electrochemical L-glutamate sensors were realized. Comparisons between electrodes with and without nanostructure modification were conducted showing our methods have enhanced the performance of electrochemical neurotransmitter sensors.
Fetal Alcohol Exposure and PHACE Syndrome: A Case and Autopsy Report

This report describes the clinical, radiologic, and autopsy findings of a newborn with PHACE syndrome (posterior fossa malformations, hemangioma, arterial anomalies, cardiac defects, and eye anomalies) and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. To our knowledge, the concurrence of these conditions has not been reported in the literature.
Determination and analysis on resistance to 5 insecticides of musca domestica in Haidian District of Beijing

Objective To understand the resistance of musca domestica to 5 common insecticides in Haidian District,and provide evidence for rational use of drugs.Method Determine the resistance by topical application method.Results The resistance indexs of musca domesticas to deltamethrin,cypermethrin,chlorpyrifos,acephate and propoxur were 40.10,46.48,10.36,15.33 and 5.43,respectively.Conclusions The collected musca domesticas in Haidian District presented obvious resistance to the five insecticides,and the resistance level from high to low was cypermethrin,deltamethrin,acephate,chlorpyrifos,and propoxur,respectively.
Comparative Dialogue: Refusing or Keeping on

Confronted with the criticism of the "Context Regression", the paper points out that the refusal to "Comparative Dialogue" is unrealistic and it further analyzes the necessity and feasibility of "Comparative Dialogue". And its legality is reiterated.