cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Determining predictors of response to exenatide in type 2 diabetes

Objectives To determine predictors of glycemic response to exenatide and to assess change in glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C) and whether a correlation exists between weight loss and glycemic response. Design Retrospective observational cohort study. Setting United States in 2009. Patients 100 adult patients with type 2 diabetes prescribed exenatide. Intervention Retrospective chart review of patients to collect demographic data, weight, serum creatinine, diabetes education, and concurrent diabetes medications. Main outcome measures Patients were categorized as responders or nonresponders based on change in A1C. Responders had an A1C decrease of 0.5% or more and nonresponders had an A1C decrease of less than 0.5% from baseline to post–exenatide initiation. Demographic data for each cohort were analyzed. Results 100 patients met inclusion criteria (61 responders and 39 nonresponders). Responders had a mean A1C decrease of 1.57%, whereas nonresponders had a mean A1C increase of 0.23% ( P P P > 0.05 for all). No correlation was found between weight loss and exenatide and glycemic response ( P = 0.99). Conclusion Our data indicate that patients with a higher baseline A1C are more likely to have a glycemic response to exenatide than patients with a lower baseline A1C.
Binding Energy and Geometry of the Hydrogen Clusters Hn

Clampitt1 and Gowland have reported the discovery of the hydrogen ion clusters Hn+,3≤n-odd≤99, in mass spectrometer experiments. We report here preliminary results from Hartree-Fock-Roothaan calculations using a contracted s-type Gaussian orbital basis for Hn+,3≤n-odd≤15. (Our previous experience with these calculations on H5+ indicates that reliable structures may be obtained with this type of limited basis.) Table 1 gives the binding energies and bond lengths for these clusters. Figure 1 shows their geometries and symmetry groups.
Muscle: Bone ratios in beef rib sections.

Thirty-eight steers and thirty heifers (14 to 17 months of age, from F(1) Hereford × Brahman cows bred to Angus or Hereford bulls), were either forage-fed for 123 days on millet-bermudagrass pasture or grain-fed for 90 days on a high-concentrate diet and were then commercially slaughtered. Warm carcass weights ranged from 167·8 kg to 324·3 kg. At 24 h post mortem, Texas Agricultural Experiment Station personnel (1) assigned scores or took measurements on each carcass for all factors used in yield grading and quality grading, (2) measured the length of hind leg (HL) and carcass length (CL) and (3) assigned a score for carcass muscling (MS) and, as appropriate, made an adjusted longissimus muscle area (ALA) evaluation. The 9th-10th-11th rib section from one side of each carcass was physically separated into longissimus muscle, fat, 'other soft tissue' and bone and ether extract determinations of the longissimus muscle and 'other soft tissue' components were made and used to adjust the yields of each of these components to a fat-free basis. Muscle to bone ratios ranged from 2·38 to 4·37. With both age and carcass weight held constant, diet, breed and sex explained only 35·8% of the variation in muscle to bone ratio. The best simple correlation with muscle to bone ratio was ALA/CL (r = ·59). Other measures significantly correlated with muscle to bone ratio included ALA (r = 0·55), MS (r = 0·50) and carcass weight (r = 0·49). Multiple regression analyses identified a three-variable subset comprised of ALA, carcass weight and CL which was related (P < 0·01) to muscle to bone ratio R(2) = 0·41). Data suggest that muscle to bone ratios differ widely among beef carcasses of similar genetic-management history and that there are carcass measures useful for predicting muscle to bone ratio.
Proposed NRC portable target case for short-range triangulation-based 3D imaging systems characterization

The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) is currently evaluating and designing artifacts and methods to completely characterize 3-D imaging systems. We have gathered a set of artifacts to form a low-cost portable case and provide a clearly-defined set of procedures for generating characteristic values using these artifacts. In its current version, this case is specifically designed for the characterization of short-range (standoff distance of 1 centimeter to 3 meters) triangulation-based 3-D imaging systems. The case is known as the "NRC Portable Target Case for Short-Range Triangulation-based 3-D Imaging Systems" (NRC-PTC). The artifacts in the case have been carefully chosen for their geometric, thermal, and optical properties. A set of characterization procedures are provided with these artifacts based on procedures either already in use or are based on knowledge acquired from various tests carried out by the NRC. Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), a well-known terminology in the industrial field, was used to define the set of tests. The following parameters of a system are characterized: dimensional properties, form properties, orientation properties, localization properties, profile properties, repeatability, intermediate precision, and reproducibility. A number of tests were performed in a special dimensional metrology laboratory to validate the capability of the NRC-PTC. The NRC-PTC will soon be subjected to reproducibility testing using an intercomparison evaluation to validate its use in different laboratories.
Limb morphogenesis in the branchiopod crustacean, Thamnocephalus platyurus, and the evolution of proximal limb lobes within Anostraca

Crustacean limbs exhibit highly diverse morphologies. One major route of diversification is in the number and position of branches arising from the proximal part of the limb. Here I describe development of larvae of the branchiopod crustacean, Thamnocephalus platyurus and describe in detail the development of the thoracic limbs. The thoracic limbs bear proximal branches both medially and laterally. The most proximal branches on either side (gnathobase and pre-epipod) show a similar developmental history: they develop via fusion of two rudiments into a single adult branch. However, phylogenetic analysis suggests that the developmental fusions have distinct evolutionary histories. In one case (gnathobase), the developmental rudiments reflect the ancestral adult morphology of two distinct branches. In the other (pre-epipod), the rudiments are an apparent novelty within the Anostraca and develop into two adult structures in only a single derived family.
P03-338 - The effects of baclofen on the escalation of cocaine-seeking behavior in rats selectively bred for high and low saccharin preference

Introduction Previous research has indicated that rats selectively bred for high and low saccharin preference exhibit differential drug-taking behavior within multiple phases of the animal model of human drug abuse. Namely, rats bred for high saccharin preference (HiS) show heightened vulnerability to addiction compared to rats bred for low saccharin preference (LoS). Prior research has also shown phenotypes that confer vulnerability to be more responsive to pharmacological interventions. For example, the GABA(B) agonist baclofen is more effective at blocking cocaine acquisition in female rats, who are typically more vulnerable to addiction, compared to males. Objectives To examine the differential effects of baclofen on the escalation of cocaine-seeking behavior in female rats bred for high and low saccharin preference. Methods HiS and LoS female rats were trained to administer cocaine (0.4 mg/kg/infusion, i.v.) within daily 2-hr sessions under a fixed ratio (FR1) schedule until criteria for stability were met. Next, the escalation phase began in which daily session length was extended to 6-hrs for 21 days. Thirty minutes prior to session during this phase, one HiS and one LoS group of rats received baclofen injections (1.25 mg/kg) while one HiS and one LoS group received saline injections. Results Baclofen potentiated escalation of cocaine infusions in HiS rats compared to HiS rats treated with saline. Conversely, baclofen attenuated escalation in LoS rats. Conclusions While these results do not support the original hypothesis of the present study, they underscore the importance of considering vulnerability factors while treating human drug addiction.
The role of shape and relative submergence on the structure of wakes of low-aspect-ratio wall-mounted bodies

The effects of shape and relative submergence (the ratio of flow depth to obstacle height, d/H) are investigated on the wakes around four different low-aspect-ratio wall-mounted obstacles at ReH = 17,800: semi-ellipsoids with the major axes of the base ellipses aligned in the streamwise and transverse directions, and two cylinders with aspect ratios matching the ellipsoids (H/D = 0.89 and 0.67, where D is the maximum transverse dimension). Particle Image Velocimetry was used to interrogate the flow. Streamwise features observed in the mean wake include counter-rotating distributions of vorticity inducing downwash (tip structures), upwash (base structures), and horseshoe vortices. In particular, the relatively subtle change in geometry produced by the rotation of the ellipsoid from the streamwise to the transverse orientation results in a striking modification of the mean streamwise vorticity distribution in the wake. Tip structures are dominant in the former case, while base structures are dominant in the latter. A vortex skeleton model of the wake is proposed in which arch vortex structures, shed from the obstacle, are deformed by the competing mechanisms of Biot-Savart self-induction and the external shear flow. The selection of tip or base structures in the ellipsoid wakes is caused by tilting of the arch structures either upstream or downstream, respectively, which is governed by ellipsoid curvature. An inverse relationship was observed between the relative submergence and the strength of the base structures for the ellipsoids, with a dominant base structure observed for d/H = 1 in both cases. These results demonstrate a means by which to achieve significant modifications to flow structure and thereby also to transport mechanisms in the flow. Therefore, this work provides insight into the modeling and control of flow over wall-mounted bodies.
Spectroelectrochemistry of heme proteins: effects of active-site heterogeneity on Nernst plots

In order to detect and model the effect of functional chain heterogeneity on Nernst plots for heme proteins, we examined the redox properties of various myoglobins (Mbs) and their mixtures using an improved spectroelectrochemical method. Specific redox responses and formal half potentials (E1/2) were obtained for Aplysia, horse, and sperm whale Mbs, as well as 1:1 mixtures of Mbs consisting of Aplysia/sperm whale, sperm whale/horse, and horse/Aplysia. Linear Nernst plots with slopes near unity were observed for horse, sperm whale, and Aplysia Mbs, with E1/2 values of 14, 19, and 96 mV (vs. NHE) respectively, consistent with previous reports using indirect methods. The Nernst plot responses for mixtures of some of these Mbs allowed us to evaluate and model the non-Nernstian behavior that results from intrinsically different values of E1/2 and from incomplete spectral overlap. The data demonstrate that increasing the E1/2 differences between the components of a Mb mixture increases the changes in shape of the resulting Nernst plots, the dominant effect being a decrease in the observed Nernst coefficient (nNernst). Comparison of Nernst plots for redox data with Hill plots for O2 binding data shows that the redox process is more affected by the structural differences in the distal heme pockets of the Mbs studied than is O2 binding. Similar effects of chain heterogeneity may give rise to disproportionate reductions in the slopes of Nernst and Hill plots for hemoglobins (Hbs). This possibility is discussed in relation to Hbs investigated for redox and O2 binding activity in our laboratories where we find nNernst to be commonly less than nHill over a range of experimental conditions.
Potential role of safer injection facilities in reducing HIV and hepatitis C infections and overdose mortality in the United States.

Abstract Background Safer injection facilities (SIFs) reduce risks associated with injecting drugs, particularly public injection and overdose mortality. They exist in many countries, but do not exist in the United States. We assessed several ethical, operational, and public health considerations for establishing SIFs in the United States. Method We used the six-factor Kass framework (goals, effectiveness, concerns, minimization of concerns, fair implementation, and balancing of benefits and concerns), summarized needs of persons who inject drugs in the United States, and reviewed global evidence for SIFs. Results SIFs offer a hygienic environment to inject drugs, provide sterile injection equipment at time of injection, and allow for safe disposal of used equipment. Injection of pre-obtained drugs, purchased by persons who inject drugs, happens in a facility where trained personnel provide on-site counseling and referral to addiction treatment and health care and intervene in overdose emergency situations. SIFs provide positive health benefits (reducing transmission of HIV and viral hepatitis, bacterial infections, and overdose mortality) without evidence for negative health or social consequences. SIFs serve most-at-risk persons, including those who inject in public or inject frequently, and those who do not use other public health programs. It is critical to address legal, ethical, and local concerns, develop and implement relevant policies and procedures, and assess individual- and community-level needs and benefits of SIFs given local epidemiologic data. Conclusions SIFs have the potential to reduce viral and bacterial infections and overdose mortality among those who engage in high-risk injection behaviors by offering unique public health services that are complementary to other interventions.
Investigation of Dopamine Receptor Structure and Function by Structure Prediction and Unnatural Amino Acid Mutagenesis

D2 and D4 dopamine receptors were investigated by structure prediction and unnatural amino acid mutagenesis. Active and inactive structures of the D2 dopamine receptor were predicted and the dopamine binding site was modeled. Aromatic residues at and near the binding site of D2 and D4 receptors were interrogated by unnatural amino acid mutagenesis, revealing a network of aromatic-aromatic interactions. Conserved proline residues within five of the D2 receptor's transmembrane helices were also interrogated by unnatural amino acid mutagenesis, revealing a key role for lack of a backbone hydrogen bond donor and importance of a substituent on the backbone N at the Pro5.50 site.
Physiological approaches to detection of small airway disease.

Abstract Recent developments in the field of lung mechanics relating to the problem of obstructive airway disease and its detection are reviewed. The importance of studying the behavior of the intrapulmonary airways during the compressed as well as the noncompressed state is stressed. The role of premature “airway closure,” in contributing to the abnormalities of gas exchange associated with disease in the small peripheral airways is discussed. The possibility is explored that some alternative methods for detecting small airway disease other than frequency dependence of dynamic compliance may be developed. Some physiological approaches to studying the behavior of small peripheral airways in human subjects during life are presented.
Metabolic acidosis stimulates intestinal arginine absorption

Abstract Introduction: L-Arginine is the exclusive precursor for nitric oxide (NO) biosynthesis and an essential nutrient for intestinal integrity during stress states. However, the effect of extracellular pH on intestinal arginine uptake is poorly understood. The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the regulation of intestinal arginine transport during acidosis. Methods: 3 H-L-arginine transport activity was measured in intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells at various ambient pHs (pH 6.6–7.6) ± actinomycin-D (1 μM), cycloheximide (20 μM), phosphatidylinositide-3 kinase (PI-3) inhibitor wortmannin (1 uM), and the NO synthetase inhibitor N-ω-Nitro-L-Arginine (L-NA, 100 μM). Data were analyzed by ANOVA. Results: Decreasing the extracellular pH stimulated arginine transport activity in a time and pH-dependent fashion. Chronic acidosis (pH 6.6 for 48 hours) resulted in a 4-fold increase in arginine transport activity (0.94 ± 0.10 acidosis vs. 0.23 ± 0.05 control, nmole/mg/min, p Conclusion: Acidosis stimulates arginine transport in Caco-2 cells via a mechanism that leads to transcription of the gene and translation of arginine transporter. Phosphatidylinositide-3 kinase is a key intracellular regulator involved in this signal transduction cascade. The nitric oxide synthetase activity plays a pivotal role in this stimulation. An increased availability of arginine to cells during acidosis provides substrate for NO biosynthesis and may help in maintaining cellular integrity.
The HETC/LHI/SGS Radiation Transport Code System

In this tutorial paper we discuss the High Energy Transport (HETC)/Light Heavy Ion (LHI)/Spallation Gamma Source (SGS) Monte Carlo radiation transport computer code system, used to transport nucleons, pions, muons, photons, and "light heavy" nuclei with 2 ? A ? 10 through complex materials and geometries. In particular, we present for the first time in a single place a comprehensive, introductory discussion of HETC/LHI/SGS code physics.
RADIO FREQUENCY ABLATION OF LUNG METASTASES FROM RENAL CELL CARCINOMA

Radio frequency ablation is an imaging guided percutaneous procedure using thermal energy to treat focal malignancies. It has been used to treat neoplasms in the liver, bone, head and neck, and lung.1, 2 Surgical resection is considered the only possibly curative treatment for pulmonary metastases from renal cell carcinoma. We report a case of lung metastases from renal cell carcinoma treated successfully with radio frequency ablation. CASE REPORT A 52-year-old man presented with 2 lung nodules considered to be pulmonary metastases from renal cell carcinoma. He had renal cell carcinoma of the left kidney diagnosed 2 years earlier, and was treated for relief of flank pain and hematuria with left radical nephrectomy. Two pulmonary metastases were present at radical nephrectomy. Chemotherapy with interferon, interleukin-2, vinblastine and 5-fluorouracil was prescribed within 4 months after nephrectomy because of pulmonary metastases. The pulmonary nodules initially grew while the patient was being treated with immunotherapy but decreased in size with fluorouracil. Chemotherapy was completely discontinued 14 months before the ablative therapy for the lung metastases. Physical examination was unremarkable. Plain radiograph and chest computerized tomography (CT) showed 2 parenchymal, peripheral pulmonary nodules, 2.4 1.9 cm. and 1.8 2 cm., in the right lower lobe (part A of figure). Pulmonary nodules were confirmed as metastatic renal cell carcinoma on a CT guided percutaneous biopsy of 1 lesion. Due to the high risk of recurrence and patient refusal to undergo further chemotherapy and surgery, percutaneous ablation was offered as a treatment option. CT guided percutaneous radio frequency ablation of the pulmonary nodules was performed with the patient under general anesthesia. A 17 gauge radio frequency electrode was inserted into the larger nodule and 2, 12-minute cycles of radio frequency treatment were applied. The radio frequency needle was then repositioned in the smaller nodule and a single 12-minute cycle of treatment was applied. After the procedure CT revealed a tiny pneumothorax and some perilesional ground-glass attenuation indicating thermal damage. The patient tolerated the procedure well and was sent home the same day. An asymptomatic pleural cutaneous fistula developed evidenced by subcutaneous gas seen on a followup chest radiograph, which resolved spontaneously without further treatment. Followup chest CT 12 months later showed no recurrence or new metastatic lesions either at the ablation treated sites or elsewhere in the lung (part B of figure). The patient was asymptomatic 16 months later with no evidence of recurrence or new metastases, and no additional treatment since tumor ablation.
An HIV-1 gp120 Envelope Human Monoclonal Antibody That Recognizes a C1 Conformational Epitope Mediates Potent Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity (ADCC) Activity and Defines a Common ADCC Epitope in Human HIV-1 Serum

ABSTRACT Among nonneutralizing HIV-1 envelope antibodies (Abs), those capable of mediating antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity have been postulated to be important for control of HIV-1 infection. ADCC-mediating Ab must recognize HIV-1 antigens expressed on the membrane of infected cells and bind the Fcγ receptor (FcR) of the effector cell population. However, the precise targets of serum ADCC antibody are poorly characterized. The human monoclonal antibody (MAb) A32 is a nonneutralizing antibody isolated from an HIV-1 chronically infected person. We investigated the ability of MAb A32 to recognize HIV-1 envelope expressed on the surface of CD4 + T cells infected with primary and laboratory-adapted strains of HIV-1, as well as its ability to mediate ADCC activity. The MAb A32 epitope was expressed on the surface of HIV-1-infected CD4 + T cells earlier than the CD4-inducible (CD4i) epitope bound by MAb 17b and the gp120 carbohydrate epitope bound by MAb 2G12. Importantly, MAb A32 was a potent mediator of ADCC activity. Finally, an A32 Fab fragment blocked the majority of ADCC-mediating Ab activity in plasma of subjects chronically infected with HIV-1. These data demonstrate that the epitope defined by MAb A32 is a major target on gp120 for plasma ADCC activity.
Reproductive adaptations to a large-brained fetus open a vulnerability to anovulation similar to polycystic ovary syndrome.

During the ovarian or menstrual cycle, prior to ovulation, many female primates exhibit a relatively prolonged follicular phase and terminate the postovulatory luteal phase with menstrual bleeding. The prolonged follicular phase is a trait that distinguishes primate from nonprimate species. It enables extended estrogen-induced proliferation and growth of the uterine endometrium prior to progesterone-induced maturation during the luteal phase to accommodate a potential pregnancy with a rapidly invading placenta. Progressive development of both an extended duration of estrogen-induced, preimplantation endometrial proliferation and a rapidly invading placenta across the Primate order may well have been necessary to accommodate differentiation and growth of an increasingly large fetal brain. Prolongation of the follicular phase in primates has also led to the isolation of the final stages of follicle selection (growth deviation of the dominant follicle from its contemporaries) solely within the follicular phase and thus outside the protection of luteal phase progesterone inhibition of pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion. Such primate reproductive characteristics put the latter stages of ovarian follicle selection at risk of exposure to excessive pituitary secretion of LH. Excessive secretion of LH during follicle selection could result not only in impaired follicle development, excessive ovarian androgen secretion, and ovulation failure, but also in excessive estrogenic stimulation of the uterine endometrium without intervening menstrual periods. Such reproductive abnormalities are all found in a single, prevalent infertility syndrome afflicting women in their reproductive years: polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We propose that successful female reproductive adaptations to accommodate the growth demands of large-brained primate fetuses have facilitated a particular vulnerability of higher primates to hypergonadotropic disruption of ovulatory function, as found in PCOS.
Solution of Similarity Transformation Equations for Boundary Layers Using Spreadsheets

A spreadsheet based solution of the similarity transformation equations of laminar boundary layer equations is presented. In this approach the nonlinear third order differential equations, for both the hydrodynamic and the thermal boundary layer equations, are discretesized using a simple finite difference approach which is suitable for programming spreadsheet cells. This approach was implemented to solve the similarity transform equations for a flat plate (Blasius equations). The thermal boundary layer result was used to obtain the heat transfer correlation for laminar flow over a flat plate in the form of Nu = Nu(Pr,Re). The relative difference between results of the present approach and those of published data are less than 1%. This approach can be easily covered in the undergraduate. Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer courses. Also, it can be incorporated in graduate Viscous Fluid Mechanics and Convection Heat Transfer courses. Application of the present approach is not limited to the flat plat boundary layer analysis. It can be used for the solution of a number of similarity transformation equations, including wedge flow problem and natural convection problems that are covered in graduate level courses.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Key parametric analysis on designing an effective forced mitigation system for LNG spill emergency

Abstract Concerns over public safety and security of a potential liquefied natural gas (LNG) spill have promoted the need for continued improvement of safety measures for LNG facilities. The mitigation techniques have been recognized as one of the areas that require further investigation to determine the public safety impact of an LNG spill. Forced mitigation of LNG vapors using a water curtain system has been proven to be effective in reducing the vapor concentration by enhancing the dispersion. Currently, no engineering criteria for designing an effective water curtain system are available, mainly due to a lack of understanding of the complex droplet–vapor interaction. This work applies computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling to evaluate various key design parameters involved in the LNG forced mitigation using an upwards-oriented full-cone water spray. An LNG forced dispersion model based on a Eulerian–Lagrangian approach was applied to solve the physical interactions of the droplet–vapor system by taking into account the various effects of the droplets (discrete phase) on the air–vapor mixture (continuous phase). The effects of different droplet sizes, droplet temperatures, air entrainment rates, and installation configurations of water spray applications on LNG vapor behavior are investigated. Finally, the potential of applying CFD modeling in providing guidance for setting up the design criteria for an effective forced mitigation system as an integrated safety element for LNG facilities is discussed.
Nickel amperometric detector prepared by electroless deposition for microchip electrophoretic measurement of alcohols and sugars

Nickel was deposited directly at the end of an electrophoretic glass microchip using an electroless deposition procedure leading to an attractive amperometric detector for sugars and alcohols. Such direct electroless deposition of nickel at the end of the separation chip greatly simplifies the preparation of on-chip electrochemical detectors. Variables affecting the preparation and operation of the new detector are characterized and optimized. The integrated capillary electrophoresis-electrochemical detection microsystem was evaluated for the separation of alcohols and sugars in connection to assays of different beer and wine samples. Linear calibration plots and favorable detection limits are found that meet the needs of real sample (wine and beer) analyses. This represents the first example of using nickel electrode and detecting alcohols on microchip platforms.
Castration, gonadal hormones and sidman avoidance acquisition

Abstract The effects of hormones on the acquisition of a leverpress Sidman avoidance task were investigated. Rats were assigned to six groups: (a) castration with estradiol treatment; (b) castration with estradiol plus progesterone treatment; (c) castration with progesterone treatment; (d) castration with testosterone treatment; (e) castration with saline treatment; (f) sham castration with saline treatment. Shocks, responses and interresponse times were recorded during a two-hour acquisition session. Following acquisition, blood was drawn and serum hormone levels were determined by radioimmunoassay. Consistent with previous reports, estradiol-treated rats showed a nonsignificant trend toward superior acquisition of the task. Estradiol, relative to sham treatment, produced a significant reduction in individual variation in the acquisition of the avoidance task.
Personality and Social Integration Factors Distinguishing Nonreligious from Religious Groups: The Importance of Controlling for Attendance and Demographics

Previous studies linking personality and social integration with religiosity conflate the weakly religious with the completely nonreligious, and religious belief with group membership, leading to spurious associations. The present study characterizes the growing nonreligious population by comparing church and secular group members on personality characteristics and social integration. Although church members were higher in Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, and perceived social support, these differences were largely eliminated when controlling for demographics and group attendance. Secular group members were higher on Intellect/Openness. Many previously reported characteristics associated with religiosity are a function not of belief itself, but of strong convictions and group identification.
Ethical Dilemmas in Competency for Execution Evaluations

ABSTRACT Since the United States Supreme Court Ruling in 1986 that ruled that it was unconstitutional to execute “the insane,” psychologists have struggled with the problem of what, if any, role they should have in evaluating and/or treating inmates on death row. Those defending such evaluations maintain that psychologists are merely doing a psychological evaluation, not determining the outcome. Those opposed to such evaluations contend that psychologists cannot separate themselves from the consequences of their evaluations. This article will explore these perspectives, raise relevant ethical issues, and suggest an alternative role for psychologists in capital sentencing proceedings.
Future developments in the treatment of end-stage renal disease: A North American perspective

New technology for the treatment of end-stage renal disease will need to be pharmacoeconomically persuasive in reducing the life-cost of treatment to obtain entry into the market. Increased automation, with closed-loop sensing technology, will occur in the near term. Clearance-based terminology for quantifying performance of equipment will give way to direct quantification of toxin removal. Experiments on the frequency and duration of treatment will redefine what is considered to be adequate therapy in terms other than simple urea removal. Near-term changes in current vascular access technology will be driven by the current cost of access failure. Automated peritoneal dialysis will displace continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, and online compounding of solution for use is likely for both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. In a longer time frame these technologies will merge. Xenografting from the pig will be a reality, and gene therapy of the mesothelium will provide a more user-friendly therapy for end-stage renal disease.
Competitive reversals inside ecological reserves: the role of external habitat degradation.

Habitat degradation is the slow – and often subtle – deterioration in habitat quality that accompanies human activities through increases in road density, pesticide use, hunting pressure, etc. Such degradation is of particular concern in fragmented habitats where economic or jurisdictional boundaries rather than ecological ones determine the level of exploitation adjoining habitat patches endure. To examine the consequences habitat degradation might have on species interactions, we posited a patch of pristine habitat surrounded by “matrix” habitat whose degradation level was variable. Using a coupled pair of diffusive Lotka–Volterra competition equations with Robin (mixed) boundary conditions, we modeled the dynamics of two competing species inhabiting the pristine patch and incorporated matrix degradation through a tunable “hostility” parameter representing species’ mortality rates in the matrix. We found that the numerical range of competition coefficients over which one species is the competitive dominant and the other inferior may grow or shrink as matrix quality deteriorates. In some cases, degradation of the exterior habitat would bring about a complete competitive reversal inside the preserve. This result, wherein a formerly inferior species supplants a formerly dominant one – even inside the “protected” remnant patch itself – has policy implications for both nature reserve design and management of human activities outside park boundaries.
Organic Influences on Carbonate Cementation: ABSTRACT

The influence of organic matrices in the secretion of polymorphs of calcium carbonate by mollusks is well known. Recent work on the ultrastructure of coralline algae indicates that an organic matrix also must be involved in the secretion of high-Mg calcite by these plants. The matrices of coralline algae are on a much lower level of organization than the matrices of the mollusks. Two genera of coralline algae have been studied using the scanning electron microscope. The genus Lithophyllum is characterized by a smooth lamellar ultrastructure which is parallel with the growth surface. The genus Goniolithon displays a rough lamellar ultrastructure in which the lamellae are parallel with the cell walls and consist of randomly oriented, blunt prisms of calcite. It is known that organic molecules in solution are adsorbed onto mineral surfaces. Such adsorbed molecules could act as simple organic matrices and control the mineralogy of so-called "inorganic cements." Experiments have been conducted using completely inorganic chemical systems and systems of mixed organic and inorganic solutions. These experiments indicate that the presence of organic molecules in the system does exert a definite influence upon the mineralogy of the precipitated cements. Both calcite and aragonite cements have been produced in the laboratory under ambient temperatures and pressures. End_of_Article - Last_Page 359------------
Nonlinear methods of statistic simulation of virtual parameter values for investigating uncertainties in orbits determined from observations

Determination of orbital parameters from observations is formally a nonlinear inverse problem for solving which evidently nonlinear methods are required. Meanwhile, an accompanying stage in solving the inverse problem is the evaluation of parametric accuracy to which, however, linear methods are conventionally applied. This is quite justified if parametric errors caused by observation errors are rather small, otherwise this is not at all since the nonlinearity of the inverse problem can be considerable to influence on the evaluations of parametric accuracy especially when the observations are very few. With the advent of quick-operating and multiprocessor computers, recently one tends to employ statistic simulation of virtual parameter values for investigating uncertainties in orbits determined from observations. In the paper are just discussed the methods designed specially for nonlinear statistic simulation of virtual parameter values. Their efficiency is investigated in application to estimating uncertainties in the orbit of Jovian satellite S/2003 J04 whose orbital parameters are ill-determined owing to scanty available observations. Indices of nonlinearity are introduced for making decision in the choice between linear and nonlinear methods.
Synthesis of Nanoscale Bimetallic Particles in Polyelectrolyte Membrane Matrix for Reductive Transformation of Halogenated Organic Compounds

Nanosized Fe/Ni and Fe/Pd particles were synthesized in the polyacrylic acid (PAA)/polyether sulfone (PES) composite membrane matrix for reductive transformation of halogenated organic compounds (HOCs). The advantages of using membrane to immobilize nanoparticles are the reduction of particles loss, prevention of particles agglomeration, and potential application of convective flow. Cross-linked PAA/PES composite membranes containing metal ions as particles precursor were prepared by heat treatment with ethylene glycol (EG) as a cross-linking agent. Nanoscale metal particles were formed and immobilized inside the membrane matrix after reduction with sodium borohydride. Membrane morphology and structure were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Particle size and distribution were characterized by SEM and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) was used to obtain the qualitative and quantitative element information of particles. A specimen-drift-free EDS line profile and EDS mapping system was performed in a scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) to determine the two-dimensional element distribution of iron and nickel in the nano domain. In the dechlorination study with trichloroethylene (TCE) as a representative HOCs, rapid and complete destruction of TCE was achieved by using nanosized bimetallic Fe/Ni or Fe/Pd in PAA/PES composite membranes. Typically more than 95% of 10 mg/l TCE was reduced within 1 h. Ethane was found in the headspace as the main product.
β-Endorphin: Thermodynamics of the binding reaction with rat brain membranes

Abstract The binding of human β-endorphin to rat brain membranes was studied at various temperatures in the absence and presence of sodium. Between 0 and 30 °C, 100 m m sodium depresses the binding of β h -endorphin by reducing its affinity for binding sites 7- to 10-fold but has no effect on the total number of binding sites present in the membranes preparation. Kinetic studies show that the decrease in affinity in sodium is largely accounted for by a 10-fold decrease in the association rate constant within the whole range of temperatures examined. High versus low temperatures markedly enhance the binding of β h -endorphin by increasing its affinity for receptors, both in the presence and absence of sodium, without change in the number of receptors. This enhancement in affinity is due to an increase in the association rate constant between 0 and 30 °C, coupled with a slight increase in the respective dissociation rate constants. Temperature variations do not interact with the influence of sodium on the β-endorphin receptor. The integrity of the tritiated peptide was assessed at each temperature used. No more than 6% of degraded material was found at the highest temperature of incubation examined. Large positive values of the standard enthalpy and entropy changes were observed both in the absence and presence of sodium indicating an entropically driven binding reaction in both cases. The dependence of binding affinity upon sodium and temperature strongly suggests that hydrophobic interactions play a major role in stabilizing the hormone-receptor complex while electrostatic and/or hydrogen-bonded interactions might play a more specific role in recognition processes.
Use of Microfiltration to Improve Fluid Milk Quality

The objectives of the research were to determine the growth characteristics of bacteria in commercially pasteurized skim milk as a function of storage temperature; to determine the efficacy of a microfiltration and pasteurization process in reducing the number of total bacteria, spores, and coliforms in skim milk; and to estimate the shelf life of pasteurized microfiltered skim milk as a function of storage temperature. For the first objective, commercially pasteurized skim milk was stored at 0.1, 2.0, 4.2, and 6.1 degrees C. A total bacterial count >20,000 cfu/mL was considered the end of shelf life. Shelf life ranged from 16 d at 6.1 degrees C to 66 d at 0.1 degrees C. Decreasing storage temperature increased lag time and reduced logarithmic growth rate of a mixed microbial population. The increased lag time for the mixed microbial population at a lower storage temperature was the biggest contributor to longer shelf life. For the second objective, raw skim milk was microfiltered at 50 degrees C using a Tetra Alcross M7 Pilot Plant equipped with a ceramic Membralox membrane (pore diameter of 1.4 microm). The 50 degrees C permeate was pasteurized at 72 degrees C for 15 s, and cooled to 6 degrees C. Bacterial counts of raw skim milk were determined by standard plate count. Bacterial counts of microfiltered and pasteurized microfiltered skim milk were determined using a most probable number method. Across 3 trials, bacterial counts of the raw milk were reduced from 2,400, 3,600, and 1,475 cfu/mL to 0.240, 0.918, and 0.240 cfu/mL, respectively, by microfiltration. Bacterial counts in the pasteurized microfiltered skim milk for the 3 trials were 0.005, 0.008, and 0.005 cfu/mL, respectively, demonstrating an average 5.6 log reduction from the raw count due to the combination of microfiltration and pasteurization. For the third objective, pasteurized microfiltered skim milk was stored at each of 4 temperatures (0.1, 2.0, 4.2, and 6.1 degrees C) and the total bacterial count was determined weekly over a 92-d period. At 6 time points in the study, samples were also analyzed for noncasein nitrogen and the decrease in casein as a percentage of true protein was calculated. After 92 d, 50% of samples stored at 6.1 degrees C and 12% of samples stored at 4.2 degrees C exceeded a total bacterial count of 20,000 cfu/mL. No samples stored at 0.1 or 2.0 degrees C reached a detectable bacterial level during the study. When the bacterial count was 92 d at 0.1 degrees C to produce a detectable off-flavor in skim milk produced from a raw milk with a 240,000 somatic cell count.
Multifunction extension of simplex optimization method for mutual information-based registration of ultrasound volumes

Mutual information has been demonstrated to be an accurate and reliable criterion function to perform registration of medical data. Due to speckle noise, ultrasound volumes do not provide a smooth mutual information function. Consequently the optimization technique used must be robust enough to avoid local maxima and converge on the desired global maximum eventually. While the well-known downhill simplex optimization uses a single criterion function, our extension to multi-function optimization uses three criterion functions, namely mutual information computed at three levels of intensity quantization and hence three degrees of noise suppression. Registration was performed with rigid as well as simple non-rigid transformation modes for real-time 3D ultrasound datasets of the left ventricle. Pairs of frames corresponding to the most stationary end- diastolic cardiac phase were chosen, and an initial misalignment was artificially introduced between them. The multi-function simplex optimization reduced the failure rate by a factor of two in comparison to the standard simplex optimization, while the average accuracy for the successful cases was unchanged. A more robust registration resulted form the parallel use of criterion functions. The additional computational cost was negligible, as each of the three implementations of the mutual information used the same joint histogram and required no extra spatial transformation.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Dress, self-esteem, self-efficiency and the academic achievement of African-American high school girls

Dress, the self, and education are vital parts of the African-American adolescent way of life. It has been said that African-Americans, in general, spend more of their resources on clothing accessories, and other body adornments (such as hair), than any other race of people. As dress is so important to this population, we discuss how African-American adolescent girl's self-esteem, self-efficacy, and academic achievement are affected by dress. We further confer how dress has affected individual and peer acceptance, teacher and peer expectations, school performance, behavioral issues, and crime issues. The implementation of uniforms into the public school sector is discussed to expose the proposed benefits and criticisms from school officials, students, and parents. Lastly, we argue the theoretical views that must be considered when studying dress as it relates to the self and education of African-American adolescent girls.
Cerebral vasculopathy in children with neurofibromatosis type 1.

Cerebral vasculopathy is an important but underrecognized complication of neurofibromatosis type 1. Over a 10-year period, we retrospectively assessed the prevalence, clinical manifestations, management, and outcome of cerebral vasculopathy in children with neurofibromatosis type 1. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain was performed on 78% of the patients (312/398) of which 46% (143/312) had magnetic resonance angiography of the intracranial arteries; 4.8% (15/312) had cerebral vasculopathy. Approximately half were asymptomatic at presentation; none had neurologic deficits. Cerebral vasculopathy included moyamoya changes (7) and stenosis/occlusion of major intracranial arteries (8). On follow-up (mean 4 years), 2 patients developed radiologic progression; 1 was treated with aspirin alone, whereas another underwent revascularization surgery. Although cerebral vasculopathy in neurofibromatosis type 1 may be asymptomatic at presentation, there may be radiologic and clinical progression leading to mo...
US-Japan relations under the Clinton and Hosokawa administrations

Abstract The changing values as reflected in the new administrations in both countries will have an impact on their relations. The Clinton administration is bound to be result-oriented and also views economic prosperity as a national security issue. An example of the American views on trade is seen in the discussions of Japan-US talks on semiconductors. The Japanese government has recognized the high cost of regulations which are keeping the consumer prices high and which are trying to deregulate. But it also faces the problem of stimulating the economy. The problems created by Voluntary Import Expansion are discussed. But it recognizes that constructive measures can be taken to increase Japanese imports.
Resistance and Thermoelectric Measurements of Cold-Worked Copper and the Resistance Minimum at Low Temperatures

Measurements of the change of residual resistance ratio of copper as a function of the percentage reduction in cross-sectional area by cold-working in liquid helium, liquid nitrogen or at room temperature and subsequent ageing treatments show (1) the relative change of the ratio during recovery between 77\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K and room temperature to that accompanying recovery and recrystallization at higher temperatures; (2) that there appears to be no recovery process taking place below 77\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K; (3) that specimens cold-worked in liquid helium or nitrogen and aged at room temperature have a higher residual resistance ratio than specimens both cold-worked and aged at room temperature.
MEASURING AND EXPLAINING DISPARITIES IN FELONY SENTENCES: Courtroom Work Group Factors and Race, Sex, and Socioeconomic Influences on Sentence Severity

The author develops a scaling technique for felony sentence severity that includes probation and estimates of expected actual incarceration time in a single metric scale. The author uses the severity measure and nonreactive case data in a set of statistical analyses with which he attempts to test recent theoretical developments in the trial court literature that posit individual actor effects related to extralegal variables in sentencing decisions and the importance of interaction among work group members in those decisions. The findings indicate that differential effects exist across judges, prosecutors, and defense attorneys in a court and offer support for the influence of the courtroom work group.