cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
KNOWLEDGE OF MANAGED CARE AMONG URBAN WOMEN. 810

Over the past year, managed care companies, have been attempting to attract more inner city clients. In order to study whether these decisions are informed, we interviewed 100 postpartum, non-adolescent, non-drug using mothers. Mean age of these mothers was 26±7 years and the mothers had an average education of 11.6±1.9 years. 94% of the mothers were U.S. citizens or permanent residents. 99% of them lived in their own house or apartment. 25% of the mothers were employed and 61% of the babies fathers were employed. 95% of the mothers had medical insurance, 73% Medicaid. 97% of the mothers had received prenatal care. In response to direct questions about knowledge of managed care, only 21% of mothers knew what managed care was. The mothers who were knowledgeable of managed care did not differ from those were not by age, race, education, birth in the US, US citizenship, marital status, employment, smoking or drinking during pregnancy, prenatal care, number of prenatal visits, fathers age, education or employment. In conclusion, the overwhelming majority of inner city postpartum mothers have no knowledge of managed care. These mothers must be educated before attempts are made to sign them up.
Output of acoustical sources

Acoustic radiation from a source, here viewed as an immobile point singularity with periodic strength and a given multipolar nature, is affected by the presence of nearly structural elements (e.g., rigid or impedance surfaces) as well as that of a background flow in the medium. An alternative to the conventional manner of calculating the net source output by integrating the energy flux over a distant control surface is described; this involves a direct evaluation of the secondary wavefunction at the position of the primary source and obviates the need for a (prospectively difficult) flux integration. Various full and half‐planar surface configurations with an adjacent source are analyzed in detail, and the explicit result obtained, in particular, for the power factor of a dipole brings out a substantial rise in its output as the source nears the sharp edge of a half‐plane.
Increase in Sexual Risk Behavior Associated with Immunologic Response to Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy among HIV-Infected Injection Drug Users

This study identifies factors associated with high-risk sexual and drug injection behaviors among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected injection drug users (IDUs) after initiation of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Participants of a large cohort study of IDUs in Baltimore were seen at semiannual visits; blood samples to determine HIV serostatus and CD4+ cell count were obtained, as well as questionnaire data on risk behaviors and medication. Survival analysis conducted for 190 HIV-infected participants who initiated HAART during 1996-2000 revealed that an increase in CD4+ cell count (categorized as an increase of >0 cells/mm3 or of < or =0 cells/mm3) after HAART initiation was independently associated with engaging in any sexual intercourse (adjusted relative hazard [ARH], 1.83; 95% CI, 1.22-2.73) and with a 3-fold increase in the hazard of engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse (ARH, 3.29; 95% CI, 1.57-6.93) after HAART initiation. An increase in CD4+ cell count after HAART initiation was not associated with injection of drugs or needle sharing. Risk reduction counseling remains important, despite improvements in the treatment of HIV infection.
NIS08-6: Defending against Instant Messaging Worms

Due to the real time nature and buddy list presence information of instant messaging (IM) systems worms can spread over IM networks rapidly, causing severe damages, however, it is a challenge to detect and control their propagation; it has become an urgent task to develop and deploy efficient procedures to proactively defend against worms before they plague IM networks. Based on modeling and analysis of worm propagation and traffic pattern, we present efficient methods for real time worm detection and control, including content insensitive tracing, signature-based detection, and relay restriction. Experiments on real IM network topologies, such as AIM, have shown promising results of our approaches.
Kinetics of high-pressure removal of hydrogen sulfide using calcium oxide powder

Sulfidation reaction of CaO at high pressure (up to 2 MPa) and high temperature (up to 900°C) to remove H2S in a coal-fired gasifier was studied in a high-pressure and temperature differential-bed flow-through reactor. Experimental conditions selected are typical for pressurized gasifiers. Effects of total pressure, H2S partial pressure, reaction temperature, fuel gas composition, and CaO surface area on the extent of sulfur capture and sorbent conversions were determined. The gasifier pressure affected the in-situ calcination of calcium carbonate particles through reduction in available surface area and pore volume of CaO formed, thus limiting the sulfidation conversion. Time-resolved conversion data of CaO sulfidation were analyzed using a modified grain model. The model incorporates external and internal diffusion, surface reaction, product layer diffusion, and the structural changes of the sulfiding CaO particle. The activation energy for the reaction was 37 kcal/mol. The estimated product layer diffusivity was 8×10−15 m2/s at 800°C with an associated activation energy of 38.4 kcal/mol—typical of solid state diffusion of ionic species through the product layer. The extent of conversion increased with increasing initial surface area and porosity of CaO particles. The high-pressure sulfidation reaction data for CaO will be useful in understanding and optimizing the in-gasifier H2S capture using calcium-based sorbents.
Evaluation of lateral throat form-an in vivo study

Introduction: Lateral throat form is an area situated at the distal end of the alveololingual sulcus. Its synonyms are distolingual vestibule and retromylohyoid fossa. The extension of denture into this area can resist horizontal forces, increase border sealing, prevent the tongue from returning to its polished surface, act as a displacing lever on the denture border and contribute to neuromuscular control. Purpose: To evaluate the relative proportion of the lateral throat forms in 74 patients aged between 18-45 years from Lucknow(Eastern UP).A designed instrument was used to confirm LTF. Method: LTF was intraorally evaluated by finger method and instrument.Then the mandibular impressions were made and casts obtained for measurements in this study. Results: The data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis.It was seen that majority of the lateral throat forms among the patients were class I, followed by class II and class III were rare.Extension of denture border in the distolingual region (vertically and horizontally) was found to be more in class I lateral throat form compared to class II and least for class III.Significant differences were observed between the vertical dimension in patients’ mouth to that of their diagnostic casts.Vertical and horizontal dimensions correspond to each other.The lateral throat form needs to be measured, to select proper stock tray for primary impression.The custom tray has to be adjusted and extended properly to record lateral throat form with more accuracy. Conclusion: It is concluded that lateral throat form has to be properly recorded for mandibular denture stability and for its successful fabrication.
Thermal racemization of tris(1,10-phenanthroline) chromium(III)

Abstract The thermal racemization of (+)589-Cr phen3(ClO4)3 has been examined under a variety of medium conditions. The racemization rate constant in water at 75°C, for example, is 8·5 × 10−5 sec−1, with an energy and entropy of activation of 23·5 kcal mole−1 and −10·9 e.u., respectively. The effect of acid, hydroxide, and various other added ions on the rate constant has been investigated, and the results compared with other tris-phenanthroline systems. An intramolecular twist process is considered the most probable mechanism of racemization.
The impact of venetian blind geometry and tilt angle on view, direct light transmission and interior illuminance

Abstract Venetian blinds are a common type of shading. They can reflect and transmit light efficiently into buildings by adjusting the louver angle and at the same time allow some view to the outdoors. This paper presents a systematic method for calculating projected view (or shaded) fractions for venetian blinds of any shape (flat and curved) as a function of rotation angle, taking into account edge effects and slat thickness. General analytical direct transmittance equations and charts – derived from pure geometrical characteristics – were also developed for flat slats (including thickness and edge effects) and curved slats (circle arcs) as a function of blind tilt angle and profile angle. The last part of the paper investigates the impact of slat shape and reflectance on window-blind system effective reflectance and the associated contribution to the inter-reflected component for different window areas.
Alexithymia level and response to computer-based training in cognitive behavioral therapy among cocaine-dependent methadone maintained individuals

Abstract Background Alexithymia, a characteristic marked by poor ability to identify, define and communicate emotions, has been associated with poorer treatment outcome, including traditional clinician delivered CBT. Computerized cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT4CBT), an effective adjunct to treatment, may provide a means of conveying skills without requiring interaction with a clinician. Methods Seventy-three methadone maintained, cocaine dependent individuals participating in an 8-week randomized clinical trial comparing standard methadone maintenance to methadone maintenance plus CBT4CBT completed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) at pretreatment, post-treatment, and follow-ups conducted one, two, and 6 months after treatment. Results There were no statistically significant differences on baseline TAS-20 scores by multiple demographic and substance use variables including gender and substance use severity. Higher TAS-20 scores were associated with somewhat higher levels of distress as measured by the Beck Depression Inventory and multiple Brief Severity Index scales. TAS-20 scores remained relatively stable throughout the duration of treatment and follow-up. Indicators of treatment process, including treatment retention, adherence and therapeutic alliance, were not significantly correlated with TAS-20 scores. There was a significant interaction of alexithymia and treatment condition, such that individuals with higher baseline scores on the TAS-20 submitted significantly higher percentages of cocaine-negative urine toxicology specimens and reported a higher percentage of abstinence days, and longer periods of consecutive abstinence within treatment when assigned to CBT4CBT compared with treatment as usual. Conclusions These findings suggest that individuals with increased alexithymia may benefit from computerized CBT; possibly via reduced demands on interpersonal skills and interactions associated with computerized therapies.
Stored energy in vanadium-hydrogen

Le diagramme de phase V-H montre a 323 K qu'il existe une region de phase solide α+β pour un rapport H/V compris entre 0,032 et 0,48, suivie d'une region de phase β (jusqu'a H/V egal a 0,67). Mesure directe de l'enthalpie a 323 K. Utilisation de l'enthalpie pour determiner la localisation du joint (α+β)/B
Absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of daily oral doses of [14C]methyl parathion in hens

Abstract Adult hens were given oral daily doses of 2 mg (2 μCi)/kg/day (14% of oral LD50 in male rats) of [14C]methyl parathion (O,O-dimethyl O-4-nitrophenyl phosphorothioate) for 10 consecutive days. Five treated hens were sacrificed at 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 h after the last dose. Methyl parathion was absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and distributed rapidly. Maximum radioactivity was detected in tissues within 8 h of dosing, (ng methyl parathion equivalent/g fresh tissue or ml plasma): Plasma (189.2), liver (94.7), kidney (146.2), brain (61.4), gastrointestinal tissues (106.7). Methyl parathion was detected in the plasma, kidney and liver, while methyl parathion metabolite p-nitrophenol was detected in the liver and in the kidney. Elimination of methyl parathion from plasma was monophasic with a terminal half-life of 17.5 h, corresponding to an elimination rate constant of 0.039 ng/hr. Most of the absorbed radioactivity was excreted in the combined fecal–urine excreta (98%). Analysis of the metabolites in the excreta revealed that non-conjugated metabolites accounted for 13% of the total excretion. Conjugated metabolites accounted for 87% of the total excretion; of that, 6% as p-nitrophenyl-glucoronide conjugate, 7% as p-nitrophenyl-sulfate conjugate, 23% as bound hot sulfric acid hydrolyzable residues, and 51% as water soluble metabolites. The presence of majority of radioactivity in the excreta as conjugated metabolites indicates that determining only unbound p-nitrophenol as a biological marker for methyl parathion exposure underestimates total fecal–urine excretion of p-nitrophenol. The slow elimination rate of methyl parathion is significant, since hens are more comparable to humans with respect to their cytochrome P450 activities.
Determination of water–cement ratio of hardened concrete by scanning electron microscopy

Abstract A methodology has been developed for the determination of the water–cement ratio (w/c) in hardened concrete using backscattered electron imaging (BEI) by a scanning electron microscope. The method is based on concrete sections that have been vacuum impregnated with epoxy and polished to a flat surface. During impregnation of a dried concrete specimen, epoxy fills capillary porosity, cracks, and voids. The epoxy-impregnated porosity appears dark in BEI, while other phases such as calcium silicate hydrate, unhydrated cement grain and aggregate appear as brighter phases. The backscattered intensity of the epoxy is the lowest compared to all other phases present within a concrete. By using image analysis program and setting an appropriate threshold of the gray scale the capillary porosity of the concrete can be quantified. Reproducible quantitative data is obtained for a concrete sample of unknown w/c by using a set of standardized instrument parameters such as brightness, contrast and working distance. The water–cement ratio, which is directly related to the capillary porosity, can therefore be measured. Signal production, brightness, contrast, sample preparation, and general methodology are discussed. The measured data using this method is compared with data generated by using optical fluorescence microscopy, according to Nordtest NT Build 361-1999.
Liraglutide for weight loss: more research is needed

Commentary on: A Astrup, S Rossner, L Van Gaal, et al.. Effects of liraglutide in the treatment of obesity: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Lancet2009;374:1606–16.
Automatic simultaneous multiple well ties

ABSTRACTWell logs, measured in depth, must be tied to seismograms, processed in time, using a time-depth function. Well ties are commonly computed using manual techniques, and are therefore prone to human error. Manually tying multiple wells compounds errors in single well ties, and maintaining lateral consistency between multiple well ties is difficult. We introduce an automatic approach to tying multiple wells that improves consistency among well ties. We first model synthetic seismograms for each well. We then create a synthetic image by interpolating the synthetic seismograms between the wells and along seismic image structure. We use smooth dynamic image warping to align the synthetic image to the seismic image and compute updated time-depth functions for each well. We then interpolate the updated time-depth functions between the wells, and map the time-migrated seismic image to depth.
Addressing location issues in mobile commerce

Mobile commerce is an emerging area involving applications, mobile devices, middleware, and wireless networks. The applications may include mobile financial services, user and location specific mobile advertising, mobile inventory management, wireless business reengineering, and mobile interactive games. One important requirement of these applications is the support for location tracking of products, services, devices, and people. In this paper, we address this issue by presenting: (a) the location requirements of the emerging M-commerce applications; (b) how these could be supported by the existing and emerging wireless networks; and (c) a new methodology to model M-commerce applications using a generic M-commerce application to evaluate the location management overhead of various M-commerce applications.
Current and emerging views and treatments of systemic immunoglobulin light-chain (Al) amyloidosis

Amyloidosis is a disease in which abnormal proteins form toxic intermediates and fibrillar tissue-deposits that compromise key viscera and lead to early death. In order to treat amyloidosis, the type of abnormal protein must be identified. The most common type is monoclonal immunoglobulin light chain or AL amyloidosis. One-third to one-half of patients with systemic AL amyloidosis has renal involvement in the form of glomerular, vascular and interstitial deposits of amyloid causing progressive proteinuria. Less than 5% of AL patients present with renal failure requiring dialysis; patients with renal involvement usually present with fatigue, peripheral edema, proteinuria and hypoalbuminemia. The aim of therapy in systemic AL amyloidosis is to reduce the amyloid-forming monoclonal light chains, measured with the serum free light chain assay, by suppressing the underlying plasma cell dyscrasia, while using supportive measures to sustain organ function. Amyloid deposits can be resorbed and organ function restored if the amyloid-forming precursor light chain is eliminated. The most effective treatment for systemic AL is risk-adapted melphalan with peripheral blood stem cell transplant; oral melphalan and dexamethasone is the most effective therapy for patients who are not stem cell transplant candidates although it carries a risk of myelodysplasia and leukemia. Novel therapies currently under study include thalidomide, bortezomib and lenalidomide. With therapy, a majority of patients can achieve long-term durable remissions with stabilization or recovery of organ function. The use of novel antibody-based approaches for imaging amyloid and possibly for accelerating removal of deposits is under active investigation.
Traditional Christian Theism and Truthmaker Maximalism

I argue that Traditional Christian Theism is inconsistent with the conjunction of Truthmaker Necessitation and Truthmaker Maximalism, the thesis that all truths have truthmakers. Though this original formulation requires extensive revision, the gist of the argument is as follows. Suppose for reductio Traditional Christian Theism and the sort of Truthmaker Theory that embraces Truthmaker Maximalism are both true. By Traditional Christian Theism, there is a world in which God, and only God, exists. There are no animals in such a world. Thus, it is true in such a world that there are no zebras. That there are no zebras must have a truthmaker, given Truthmaker Maximalism. God is the only existing object in such a world, and so God must be the truthmaker for this truth, given that it has a truthmaker. But truthmakers necessitate the truths they make true. So, for any world, at any time at which God exists, God makes that there are no zebras true. According to Traditional Christian Theism, God exists in our world. In our world, then, it is true: there are no zebras. But there are zebras. Contradiction! Thus, the conjunction of Traditional Christian Theism with Truthmaker Necessitation and Truthmaker Maximalism is inconsistent.
Viral Gene Expression in HIV Transgenic Mice Is Activated by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Suppressed after Antimycobacterial Chemotherapy

We used human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transgenic (Tg) mice incorporating the entire viral genome to study the effect of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection on the induction of integrated HIV gene expression. When aerogenically infected with M. tuberculosis, these mice displayed a progressive increase in pulmonary gag and env mRNA levels and of p24 antigen production by cultured splenocytes. In situ hybridization of lungs revealed increased viral transcription associated with areas of inflammation and acid-fast bacilli. By neutralizing tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in vivo after M. tuberculosis exposure, we found that, although initially TNF independent, the increased HIV expression triggered by M. tuberculosis was highly dependent on this cytokine by 4 weeks after infection. Furthermore, treatment with antimycobacterial drugs markedly reduced HIV transgene expression. These studies establish an animal model for investigating the influence of M. tuberculosis on latent HIV expression and for testing therapeutic regimens for reducing the disease burden in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-associated tuberculosis.
Two novel heat shock genes encoding proteins produced in response to heterologous protein expression in Escherichia coli

Abstract In Escherichia coli high-level production of some heterologous proteins (specifically, human prorenin, renin, and bovine insulin-like growth factor 2) resulted in the induction of two new E. coli heat shock proteins, both of which have molecular masses of 16 kDa and are tightly associated with inclusion bodies formed during heterologous protein production. We named these inclusion body-associated proteins IbpA and IbpB. The coding sequences for IbpA and IbpB were identified and isolated from the Kohara E. coli gene bank. The genes for these proteins (ibpA and ibpB) are located at 82.5 min on the chromosome. Nucleotide sequencing of the two genes revealed that they are transcribed in the same direction and are separated by 110 bp. Putative Shine-Dalgarno sequences are located upstream from the initiation codons of both genes. A putative heat shock promoter is located upstream from ibpA, and a putative transcription terminator is located downstream from ibpB. A temperature upshift experiment in which we used a wild-type E. coli strain and an isogenic rpoH mutant strain indicated that a sigma 32-containing RNA polymerase is involved in the regulation of expression of these genes. There is 57.5% identity between the genes at the nucleotide level and 52.2% identity at the amino acid level. A search of the protein data bases showed that both of these 16-kDa proteins exhibit low levels of homology to low-molecular-weight heat shock proteins from eukaryotic species.
A novel class of fast electrical events recorded by electrodes implanted in tomato shoots

An unfamiliar class of electrical events with rapid rise and slow decay has been identified in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) plants impaled by metal electrodes. Rise-times of these extracellularly detected events can be 200 µs or less, while fall-times can require hundreds of milliseconds. In excised tomato shoots, these events are associated with the imposition of water stress. The hypothesized origin of these events is the fracture of water columns in the xylem and the triboelectrification that occurs as the ends of the columns snap apart.
Organ Surface Deformation Measurement and Analysis in Open Hepatic Surgery: Method and Preliminary Results From 12 Clinical Cases

The incidence of soft tissue deformation has been well documented in neurosurgical procedures and is known to compromise the spatial accuracy of image-guided surgery systems. Within the context of image-guided liver surgery (IGLS), no detailed method to study and analyze the observed organ shape change between preoperative imaging and the intraoperative presentation has been developed. Contrary to the studies of deformation in neurosurgical procedures, the majority of deformation in IGLS is imposed prior to resection and due to laparotomy and mobilization. As such, methods of analyzing the organ shape change must be developed to use the intraoperative data [e.g., laser range scan (LRS) surfaces] acquired with the organ in its fully deformed shape. To achieve this end we use a signed closest point distance deformation metric computed after rigid alignment of the intraoperative LRS data with organ surfaces generated from the preoperative tomograms. The rigid alignment between the intraoperative LRS surfaces and preoperative image data was computed with a feature weighted surface registration algorithm. In order to compare the deformation metrics across patients, an interpatient nonrigid registration of the preoperative CT images was performed. Given the interpatient liver registrations, an analysis was performed to determine the potential similarities in the distribution of measured deformation between patients for which similar procedures had been performed. The results of the deformation measurement and analysis indicate the potential for soft tissue deformation to compromise surgical guidance information and suggests a similarity in imposed deformation among similar procedure types.
Multi-slot Channel Allocation for Priority Packet Transmission in the GPRS Network

In the General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) network, data packets from services like mobility management and “push-to-talk” (PTT) are sensitive to delay. During the channel allocation process, the delay-sensitive packets should have higher priority than other packets. Previously priority queue and Uplink State Flag Channel Allocation (USFCA) have been used to reduce the transmission delay of priority packets. In this paper, we study the performance of channel allocation for priority packet in the GPRS network with multi-slot capability. The results show that the transmission delay of priority packet can be further reduced by assigning multiple channels to priority packet in addition to the use of priority queue and USFCA.
Expressing the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study equation for estimating glomerular filtration rate with standardized serum creatinine values.

Purpose: We sought to reexpress the 4-variable Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study equation for estimation of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) using serum creatinine (Scr) standardized to reference methods. Methods: Serum specimens included creatinine reference materials prepared by the College of American Pathologists (CAP), traceable to primary reference material at the NIST, with assigned values traceable to isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS), a calibration panel prepared by the Cleveland Clinic Research Laboratory (CCRL), and frozen samples from the MDRD Study. Split specimens were measured at the CCRL using the Roche enzymatic and Beckman CX3 kinetic alkaline picrate assays. Results: Roche enzymatic assay results on CAP samples were comparable to IDMS-assigned values. Beckman CX3 assay results in 2004–2005 were significantly higher than but highly correlated with simultaneous Roche enzymatic assay results ( r 2 = 0.9994 on 40 CCRL samples) and showed minimal but significant upward drift from Beckman CX3 assay results during the MDRD Study in 1989–1991 ( r 2 = 0.9987 in 253 samples). Combining these factors, standardized Scr = 0.95 × original MDRD Study Scr. The reexpressed 4-variable MDRD Study equation for Scr (mg/dL) is GFR = 175 × standardized Scr−1.154 × age−0.203 × 1.212 (if black) × 0.742 (if female), and for Scr (μmol/L) is GFR = 30849× standardized Scr−1.154 × age−0.203 × 1.212 (if black) × 0.742 (if female) [GFR in mL · min−1 · (1.73 m2)−1]. Conclusion: When the calibration of Scr methods is traceable to the Scr reference system, GFR should be estimated using the MDRD Study equation that has been reexpressed for standardized Scr.
Aligned Carbon Nanotube Array Functionalization for Enhanced Atomic Layer Deposition of Platinum Electrocatalysts

Uniform metal deposition onto high surface area supports is a key challenge of developing successful efficient catalyst materials. Atomic layer deposition (ALD) circumvents permeation difficulties, but relies on gas-surface reactions to initiate growth. Our work demonstrates that modified surfaces within vertically aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays, from plasma and molecular precursor treatments, can lead to improved catalyst deposition. Gas phase functionalization influences the number of ALD nucleation sites and the onset of ALD growth and, in turn, affects the uniformity of the coating along the length of the CNTs within the aligned arrays. The induced chemical changes for each functionalization route are identified by X-ray photoelectron and Raman spectroscopies. The most effective functionalization routes increase the prevalence of oxygen moieties at defect sites on the carbon surfaces. The striking effects of the functionalization are demonstrated with ALD Pt growth as a function of surface treatment and ALD cycles examined by electron microscopy of the arrays and the individual CNTs. Finally, we demonstrate applicability of these materials as fuel cell electrocatalysts and show that surface functionalization affects their performance towards oxygen reduction reaction.
A machine to support autonomic computing

IBM's autonomic computing initiative seeks to create self reliant IT systems, but autonomic properties can also be applied to tower layers of computing. This paper reviews a new autonomic CPU design intended to integrate into an embedded autonomic system. The CPU is made up of "Cogs" which intemperate to carry out computation. Code written for a Cog computer simulator is presented that demonstrates core Cog features. A review of this first machine concludes the paper.
Personal Reminiscences of the Birth of Algebraic K-theory

These informal reminiscences, presented at the ICTP 2002 Conference on algebraic K- theory, recount the trajectory in the author's early research, from work on the Serre Conjecture (on projective modules over polynomial algebras), via ideas from algebraic geometry and topology, to the ideas and constructions that eventually contributed to the founding of algebraic K-theory. The solution of the Congruence Subgroup Problem is presented as a pivotal event. Mathematics Subject Classifications (2000): 19-xx, 20G30. The organizers, Remi Kuku, Claudio Pedrini, and Max Karoubi, of the ICTP 2002 Conference on Algebraic K-theory graciously used the occasion to celebrate my 70th birthday. During the ceremonial session there I offered some impromptu per- sonal reminiscences about how my own research led me into what came to be called algebraic K-theory, and about the early development of the subject. The interest shown there led the organizers to request that I record those reminiscences for the conference proceedings. That is the genesis of the still somewhat informal account that follows. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, a period of great mathematical ferment, there were several interwoven mathematical themes in play from which algebraic K-theory gradually took shape. • Various motifs in algebraic and geometric topology - generalized cohomology theories, fiber bundles, simple homotopy theory. • The precocious birth of homological algebra, and the development of category theory, in part for an axiomatic treatment of homological algebra. In particu- lar, the paradigm shifting intrusion of homological methods into commutative algebra. • Grothendieck's radical and visionary re-founding and expansion of algebraic geometry.
The ADF Homology (ADF-H) Domain: A Highly Exploited Actin-binding Module

Genome sequencing projects have dramatically increased the amount of sequence data available in public databases, providing an opportunity to identify new protein families. The definition of new protein families allows knowledge from studies of one or a few members of a protein family to be applied to many other proteins in the family. The analysis presented here defines an actin-binding module, the actin-depolymerizing factor homology (ADF-H) domain, which is present in each member of a newly identified, extensive protein family. This family consists of three phylogenetically distinct classes: the ADF/cofilins, the twinfilins, and the drebrin/Abp1s. Each class has been used by eukaryotic organisms for more than 1 billion years, since before the divergence of fungi and animals. The ADF-H domain can be considered a functional building block that is arranged differently in each of the three protein classes in the family. In addition to being evolutionarily distinguishable, proteins in each class seem to possess distinct biochemical properties. Thus, ancient duplication of the ADF-H domain allowed the development of functional diversity.
Ecology of the Basin Construction Reproductive Mode in Smilisca sordida (Anura: Hylidae)

Basin building, a rare reproductive strategy used by frogs, consists of constructing a depression in the substrate (a basin) and depositing eggs within the basin. The stream breeding Neotropical hylid frog, Smilisca sordida, constructs several types of basins; specifically, eggs deposited in a circular depression either with eggs floating on the surface of the water or with eggs attached to the substrate (open basins) or eggs buried beneath the substrate (a buried basin). Two hypotheses were tested to explain the selective forces maintaining the basin construction reproductive mode in S. sordida. The microenvironment modification hypothesis proposes that basins modify the environment in ways beneficial to developing young. The predator avoidance hypothesis proposes that basins separate and therefore protect embryos and larvae from predators. The thermal prediction of the microenvironment modification hypothesis is supported but only for open basins: buried basins do not modify the thermal environment relative to streams. Fish consume eggs of S. sordida, suggesting that basins provide refuge from fish predation. Field data on predation rates show that, although basin building may reduce predation by fish, planarians, other invertebrate species, and conspecific tadpoles, all colonize basins and consume eggs of S. sordida. Of 230 clutches, 37.4% experienced total mortality and of clutches that failed, 74.4% were solely caused by predators that colonized basins. The distribution of predators along the stream was nonrandom and the distribution of predators strongly influenced the fate of clutches. Basin desiccation, as well as flooding, caused additional mortality to young and are additional consequences of depositing eggs in basins for S. sordida.
Should preclinical typodonts be disinfected prior to grading

This is a report of a unique finding in a preclinical laboratory that may be a potential dental school health hazard. Visual inspection (conducted in April 2008 by a preclinical crown and bridge course coordinator) of typodonts used by second-year students at the University of Mississippi School of Dentistry found that fourteen out of thirty-nine had black spots on the undersurface of the cheek shroud and/or plastic gingiva. The spots were cultured by the Medical Center’s Department of Microbiology and described only as being mold/fungus typical of that which frequently grows in warm, moist, southern environments. Although indoor molds are common, about 5 percent of the general population will develop some type of mild allergic airway problem from molds over their lifetime. Mold on typodonts is unsightly, indicates failure of students to recognize the value of cleanliness in the dental environment, and may be a potential health hazard for some individuals. Cleaning and drying procedures for typodonts were implemented. The transfer of items between students and instructors during preclinical courses provides many opportunities for the spread of potentially harmful microorganisms/viruses. As a minimal level of personal protection, it is suggested that instructors wear disposable gloves and face masks and exercise hand washing between handling student instruments and typodonts. This problem has not been previously mentioned in the literature and merits further investigation/discussion.
Experimental and theoretical investigations of the dynamic properties for tilting-pad journal bearings

Rotors of high-speed machinery are usually supported in tilting-pad journal bearings (TPJB), which offer inherent stability resulting from theoretically zero cross coupling dynamic coefficients. The rotordynamic analysis is usually based on linear bearing stiffness and damping coefficients calculated after ignoring pad mass and assuming synchronous shaft vibration (synchronously reduced coefficients). Measurement of the bearing dynamic properties has been a challenge for many years. This is particularly true for TPJB, which demonstrate a certain dependence on frequency of excitation. The paper presents theoretical and experimental evaluation techniques for stiffness and damping coefficients of TPJB. Some results are also shown. The theoretical results have been obtained from a computer model, which accounts for thermal and elastic effects, including those of pivot flexibility. Experimentally, the dynamic coefficients have been evaluated from the measured excitation force, acceleration and bearing/shaft displacement using a power spectral density technique. The experimental investigations have been supplemented by uncertainty considerations for the frequency domain method. These considerations have been based on analysis of propagation of elemental errors associated with the measurements of displacement and acceleration. The results illustrate the effects of pivot flexibility on the bearing stiffness and damping properties and their variations with frequency.
More is less: improving the energy efficiency of data movement via opportunistic use of sparse codes

Data movement over long and highly capacitive interconnects is responsible for a large fraction of the energy consumed in nanometer ICs. DDRx, the most broadly adopted family of DRAM interfaces, contributes significantly to the overall system energy in a wide range of computer systems. To reduce the energy cost of data transfers, DDR4 adopts a pseudo open-drain IO circuit that consumes power only when transmitting or receiving a 0, which makes the IO energy proportional to the number of 0s transferred over the data bus. A data bus invert (DBI) coding technique is therefore supported by the DDR4 standard to encode each byte using a small number of 0s. Although sparse coding techniques that are more advanced than DBI can reduce the IO power further, the relatively high bandwidth overhead of these codes has heretofore prevented their application to the DDRx bus. This paper presents MiL (More is Less), a novel data communication framework built on top of DDR4, which exploits the data bus under-utilization caused by DRAM timing constraints to selectively apply sparse codes, thereby reducing the IO energy without compromising system performance. Evaluation results on a set of eleven parallel applications show that MiL can reduce the average IO interface energy by 49%, and the average DRAM system energy by 8% when added on top of a conventional DDR4 system, with less than 2% performance degradation on average.
Universal scaling law for the condensation energy across a broad range of superconductor classes

One of the goals in understanding any new class of superconductors is to search for commonalities with other known superconductors. The present work investigates the superconducting condensation energy, $U$, in the iron based superconductors (IBSs), and compares their $U$ with a broad range of other distinct classes of superconductor, including conventional BCS elements and compounds and the unconventional heavy fermion, $\mathrm{S}{\mathrm{r}}_{2}\mathrm{Ru}{\mathrm{O}}_{4},\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}\mathrm{L}{\mathrm{i}}_{0.1}\mathrm{ZrNCl},\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}\ensuremath{\kappa}{\text{-(BEDT-TTF})}_{2}\mathrm{Cu}(\mathrm{NCS}{)}_{2}$, and optimally doped cuprate superconductors. Surprisingly, both the magnitude and ${T}_{c}$ dependence $(U\ensuremath{\propto}{T}_{c}^{3.4\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2})$ of $U$ are---contrary to the previously observed behavior of the specific heat discontinuity at ${T}_{c}$, $\ensuremath{\Delta}C$---quite similar in the IBS and BCS materials for ${T}_{c}g1.4$ K. In contrast, the heavy fermion superconductors' $U$ vs ${T}_{c}$ are strongly (up to a factor of 100) enhanced above the IBS/BCS while the cuprate superconductors' $U$ are strongly (factor of 8) reduced. However, scaling of $U$ with the specific heat \ensuremath{\gamma} (or $\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Delta}}C$) brings all the superconductors investigated onto one universal dependence upon ${T}_{c}$. This apparent universal scaling $U/\phantom{\rule{0.0pt}{0ex}}\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{\propto}{T}_{c}^{2}$ for all superconductor classes investigated, both weak and strong coupled and both conventional and unconventional, links together extremely disparate behaviors over almost seven orders of magnitude for $U$ and almost three orders of magnitude for ${T}_{c}$. Since $U$ has not yet been explicitly calculated beyond the weak coupling limit, the present results can help direct theoretical efforts into the medium and strong coupling regimes.
Inhibition of adrenal steroidogenesis by glutethimide.

SummaryGlutethimide, in relatively high concentrations inhibits corticosterone synthesis by the rat adrenal in vitro. This effect is demonstrable regardless of whether glutethimide is administered to the rat prior to removal of the adrenals or is added directly to the incubation fluid. The conversion of pregnenolone and of deoxycorticosterone to corticosterone by incubated adrenals is inhibited by glutethimide, indicating a block of 11β-hydroxylation. Glutethimide also suppresses 21-hydroxylation as evidenced by a reduced conversion of 11β-hydroxyprogesterone to corticosterone. Chronic treatment of the intact rat with glutethimide significantly lowers plasma corticosterone concentration but does not affect adrenal weight or cholesterol concentration.
Potential toxicity of up-converting nanoparticles encapsulated with a bilayer formed by ligand attraction

The cellular toxicity of nanoparticles that were capped with a bilayered ligand was studied using an up-converting (UC) phosphor material as a representative nanoparticle (NP). The results indicate that although UC NPs are known to be nontoxic, the toxicity of the NPs depends strongly on ligand coordination conditions, in addition to the other commonly known parameters such as size, structure, surface charge etc. Oleate-capped hydrophobic NaYF4:Yb,Er NPs were surface modified to yield three extreme conditions: bare particles that were stripped of the oleate ligands; particles with covalently bound poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) ligands; and particles with an bilayer of PEG-oleate ligands using the oleate surface group that was remained after synthesis. It was found that the bare particles and the covalent PEG NPs induced little toxicity. However, particles that were rendered biocompatible by forming a bilayer with an amphiphilic ligand (i.e., PEG-oleate) resulted in significant cell toxicity. These findings strongly suggest that the PEG-oleate group dissociated from the bilayered oleate-capped NPs, resulting in significant toxicity by exposing the hydrophobic oleate-capped NPs to the cell. Based on results with bare particles, the NaLnF4:Yb,Er (Ln = Y, Gd) up-converting phosphors are essentially less-toxic. Capping and functionalizing these particles with ligand intercalation may, however, not be a suitable method for rendering the NPs suitable for bioapplication as the ligand can potentially dissociate upon cellular interaction, leading to significant toxicity.
SP0136 Genomic Responses in Mouse Models Poorly Mimic Human Inflammatory Diseases

A cornerstone of modern biomedical research is the use of mouse models to explore basic pathophysiological mechanisms, evaluate new therapeutic approaches, and make go or no-go decisions to carry new drug candidates forward into clinical trials. Systematic studies evaluating how well murine models mimic human inflammatory diseases are nonexistent. Our results demonstrate a lack of correlation between human inflammatory diseases and the mouse models used ultimately to create drugs to treat these diseases. Although acute inflammatory stresses from different etiologies result in highly similar genomic responses in humans, the responses in corresponding mouse models correlate poorly with the human conditions and also, one another. Among genes changed significantly in humans, the murine orthologs are close to random in matching their human counterparts (e.g., R2 between 0.0 and 0.1). Our article provides data for what most investigators already know from their experiences – current mouse models poorly reflect human inflammatory diseases. We do not damn all mouse models. Rather, we propose that the scientific community raise the bar to require model systems to more accurately reproduce the molecular features of human inflammatory disease. In addition to improvements in the current animal model systems, our study supports higher priority for translational medical research to focus on the more complex human conditions rather than relying on mouse models to study human inflammatory diseases. Disclosure of Interest None declared DOI 10.1136/annrheumdis-2014-eular.1698
Enaminones via Ruthenium-Catalyzed Coupling of Thioamides and α-Diazocarbonyl Compounds

Enaminones can be prepared via the Rh2(OAc)4-catalyzed coupling of α-diazocarbonyl compounds with thioamides. However, rhodium is the most expensive and least abundant among the dominant precious metals used for catalysis. Furthermore, a very limited substrate scope is known for the intermolecular rhodium catalyzed coupling reaction. Therefore, there is a need to find a more economical catalyst substitute with a broad substrate scope. In this paper, we describe the use of Ru(II) catalysts for the synthesis of enaminones. The reaction can be performed efficiently with the Grubbs first-generation catalyst or [(Ph)3P]3RuCl2 in a sealed tube. Both catalysts are much less expensive than Rh2(OAc)4. Secondary and tertiary thioamides, when reacted with α-diazodiesters, α-diazoketoesters, α-diazodiketones, and α-diazomonoketones give enaminones. Primary thioamides give thiazole derivatives when reacted with α-diazomonoketones. However, with other diazo compounds, primary thioamides also give enaminones. All enamin...
Pedunculated colonic lipoma prolapsing through the anus

Colorectal lipomas are the second most common benign tumors of the colon. These masses are typically incidental findings with over 94% being asymptomatic. Symptoms-classically abdominal pain, bleeding per rectum and alterations in bowel habits-may arise when lipomas become larger than 2 cm in size. Colonic lipomas are most often noted incidentally by colonoscopy. They may also be identified by abdominal imaging such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. We report a case of a sixty-one years old male who presented to our emergency room with a 6.7 cm × 6.3 cm soft tissue mucosal mass protruding transanally. The patient was stable with a benign abdominal examination. The mass was initially thought to be a rectal prolapse; however, a limited digital rectal exam was able to identify this as distinct from the anal canal. Since the mass was irreducible, it was elected to be resected under anesthesia. At surgery, manipulation of the mass identified that the lesion was pedunculated with a long and thickened stalk. A laparoscopic linear cutting stapler was used to resect the mass at its stalk. Pathology showed a polypoid submucosal lipoma of the colon with overlying ulceration and necrosis. We report this case to highlight this rare but possible presentation of colonic lipomas; an incarcerated, trans-anal mass with features suggesting rectal prolapse. Trans-anal resection is simple and effective treatment.