cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Scan-rescan reproducibility of CT densitometric measures of emphysema

This study investigated the reproducibility of HRCT densitometric measures of emphysema in patients scanned twice one week apart. 24 emphysema patients from a multicenter study were scanned at full inspiration (TLC) and expiration (RV), then again a week later for four scans total. Scans for each patient used the same scanner and protocol, except for tube current in three patients. Lung segmentation with gross airway removal was performed on the scans. Volume, weight, mean lung density (MLD), relative area under -950HU (RA-950), and 15 th percentile (PD-15) were calculated for TLC, and volume and an airtrapping mask (RA-air) between -950 and -850HU for RV. For each measure, absolute differences were computed for each scan pair, and linear regression was performed against volume difference in a subgroup with volume difference <500mL. Two TLC scan pairs were excluded due to segmentation failure. The mean lung volumes were 5802 +/- 1420mL for TLC, 3878 +/- 1077mL for RV. The mean absolute differences were 169mL for TLC volume, 316mL for RV volume, 14.5g for weight, 5.0HU for MLD, 0.66p.p. for RA-950, 2.4HU for PD-15, and 3.1p.p. for RA-air. The <500mL subgroup had 20 scan pairs for TLC and RV. The R 2 values were 0.8 for weight, 0.60 for MLD, 0.29 for RA-950, 0.31 for PD-15, and 0.64 for RA-air. Our results indicate that considerable variability exists in densitometric measures over one week that cannot be attributed to breathhold or physiology. This has implications for clinical trials relying on these measures to assess emphysema treatment efficacy.
Are normative values for LV geometry and mass based on fundamental imaging valid with use of harmonic imaging

Background Multiple studies have reported echocardiographically determined normal reference values for left ventricular (LV) mass (LVM) derived using fundamental imaging (FI). Modern ultrasound systems now use harmonic imaging (HI) because of the improved LV endomyocardial definition. However, the 2005 American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) recommendations noted that the applicability of the reference values to HI-derived measurements has not been established. Methods LVM and LV end-diastolic volume, diameter, and wall thickness were determined using HI in healthy subjects ( n = 251), including normal-weight (NW) (body mass index 2 , n = 149, 68% women) and otherwise healthy, overweight (OW) (body mass index ≥ 25 and 2 , n = 102, 41% women) groups. Measurements were compared with ASE-endorsed reference values. The agreement between FI and HI was determined in a prospective cohort of 51 subjects. Results Two-dimensional (2D) derived LV volumes were similar between NW and OW subjects, although M-mode (MM)–derived LV diameters were slightly greater in OW subjects. 2D and MM-derived LVM was greater in OW compared with NW subjects, including after adjustment by height or height 2.7 ; however, indexing to body surface area eliminated these differences. The partition values for abnormal 2D and MM-derived LVM were generally greater in NW and OW subjects of both sexes compared with the ASE-endorsed values (except MM-derived LVM in NW men). However, there were no significant differences in LVM determined by HI compared with FI in a prospectively studied cohort. Conclusions Reference values for LVM derived from NW and OW cohorts are generally higher than the ASE-endorsed referenced values. The difference between NW and ASE-endorsed values is unlikely to result from the use of HI rather than FI, because there is excellent agreement between these two imaging modalities. This study emphasizes the need to update normal reference values to reflect modern imaging methods.
The empirical basis of equilibrium: Mach, Vailati, and the lever

Abstract About a century ago, Ernst Mach argued that Archimedes’s deduction of the principle of the lever is invalid, since its premises contain the conclusion to be demonstrated. Subsequently, many scholars defended Archimedes, mostly on historical grounds, by raising objections to Mach’s reconstruction of Archimedes’s deduction. In the debate, the Italian philosopher and historian of science Giovanni Vailati stood out. Vailati responded to Mach with an analysis of Archimedes’s deduction which was later quoted and praised by Mach himself. In this paper, my objective is to show that the debate can be further advanced, as Mach indicated, by reframing it in terms of the empirical vs. the logical dimensions of mechanics. In this way, I will suggest, the debate about Archimedes’s deduction can be resolved in Mach’s favour.
What Factors Shape By Ratings in Relation to Landmarks

Two experiments investigated how absolute and relative distance shape adults’ and young children's ratings concerning the extent to which the term by describes the relation between locations. Three- and 4-year-old children and adults were asked to rate how well the word by described the relation between several blocks and a landmark. The blocks were arranged so that their absolute and relative distances from the landmark varied. All ages relied on absolute and relative distance between the blocks and the landmark when making by ratings; however, older children and adults showed more differentiated responses. These findings add to our growing understanding of how adults and young children use relative distance to understand the proximity term by.
Characteristics of Dislocation Half-Loop Arrays in 4H-SiC Homo-Epilayer

Dislocation “half-loop arrays” (HLAs) in 4H-SiC homo-epilayers are studied by molten KOH etching and atomic force microscopy (AFM). It is found that the dislocation half-loops in an array exist at different depths in the epilayer, and they are aligned roughly but not exactly perpendicular to the off-cut direction. These results indicate that the dislocation half-loops in an array are not formed simultaneously, but the array extends by generation of new half-loops during growth. It is also demonstrated that the HLAs can be artificially induced by creating strain in the material, followed by annealing.
Spatial Attention and Vernier Acuity

Abstract This study examined whether or not vernier acuity would be improved if the location of a briefly presented vernier stimulus was pre-cued. The vernier target appeared alone, or together with straight lines or ellipses. Effects of spatial pre-cuing were found only when straight tine distractors were present It is suggested that since the straight tines are confusable with the vernier targets, they introduce statistical noise in decision. Precuing the most probable location that contains a target may help by allowing this noise to be excluded.
The computational difficulty of manipulating an election

We show how computational complexity might protect the integrity of social choice. We exhibit a voting rule that efficiently computes winners but is computationally resistant to strategic manipulation. It is NP-complete for a manipulative voter to determine how to exploit knowledge of the preferences of others. In contrast, many standard voting schemes can be manipulated with only polynomial computational effort.
Flavonoids from Eustoma grandiflorum flower petals

Abstract The major flavonoids responsible for flower colours of Eustoma grandiflorum were characterized by TLC, HPLC, spectral and chemical analyses. Anthocyanins were delphinidin 3-rhamnosylgalactoside-5-glucoside and delphinidin 3-galactoside-5-glucoside, each acylated with p -coumaric acid, from the purple cultivar ‘Murasaki no Homare’ and the pelargonidin analogues, each acylated with either p -coumaric or ferulic acids, from the pink cultivar ‘Momo no Mine’. The major flavonol copigments were the 3-rhamnosylgalactoside-7-rhamnoside of myricetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetin and the 3-rhamnosylglucoside-7-rhamnoside of kaempferol and isorhamnetin. Flavonols present acylated with p -coumaric acid were myricetin 3-rhamnosylgalactoside-7-rhamnoside and robinin in both cis and trans forms, and isorhamnetin 3-rhamnosylgalactoside-7-rhamnoside. Robinin also was present acylated with caffeic or ferulic acids. Simulated in vitro colours obtained from the flavonoids present in this germplasm indicated that good blue colours were not attainable. Good blue colours were formed with delphinidin 3- p -coumaroyl-rhamnosylgalactoside-5-glucoside and C -glycosylflavone copigments such as swertisin and isoorientin. These copigments are readily available in other members of the Gentianaceae and this suggests the possibility of genetical engineering endeavours for increasing the colour range of this important new ornamental plant.
Facial clefting and oroauditory pathway manifestations in ankyloblepharon-ectodermal defects-cleft lip/palate (AEC) syndrome.

Ankyloblepharon–ectodermal defects-cleft lip/palate (AEC) Syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by ectodermal dysplasia, along with other malformations such as cleft lip and palate, and various secondary issues such as chronic sinusitis, otitis media, and conductive hearing loss (CHL). The International Research Symposium for AEC Syndrome convened at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. Patients with a suspected diagnosis of AEC syndrome attended, and members of the dental, dermatology, plastic surgery, otolaryngology, and audiology services examined each patient. Eighteen patients with a diagnosis of AEC were evaluated. Mean age was 7.5 years (range: 4 months–30 years). Fourteen of the 15 subjects tested (93.33%) demonstrated CHL, with seven showing moderate to severe hearing deficits (41–90 dB). Nine of 13 respondents reported hoareness or voice problems; 8 were noted to display this on examination. Fourteen of 16 subjects reported speech was below average for age; 8 were in speech therapy. All 18 subjects reported a history of otitis externa or otitis media. Eleven of the subjects (61.11%) required myringotomy and pressure equalizing (PE) tubes. All patients demonstrated cleft palate defects. Of these, 16 (94.11%) presented with clefting of the soft palate, and 10 (58.82%) showed hard palate defects. Three subjects (16.67%) were noted to have submucous clefts. Our experience leads us to propose that while the oroauditory problems in those with AEC syndrome is likely multifactorial, many issues may stem from palatal clefting. Despite this, some abnormalities persist following surgical cleft closure, which indicates other complicating factors are also involved. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
How big is too big? Trading off the economies of scale of larger telecommunications network elements against the risk of larger outages

Abstract This paper builds a probabilistic model to analyze the risk–reward tradeoffs that larger telecommunications network elements present. Larger machines offer rewards in the form of cost savings due to economies of scale. But large machines are riskier because they affect more customers when they fail. Our model translates the risk of outages into dollar costs, which are random variables. This step enables us to combine the deployment cost and outage cost into a total cost. Once we express the decision makers’ preferences via a utility function, we can find the machine size that minimizes the total cost’s expected utility, thereby achieving an optimal tradeoff between reward and risk. The expected utility answers the question “how big is too big?”.
Osteoblastic and cytokine gene expression of implant‐adherent cells in humans

Objectives Implant surface topography is a key determinant affecting osteoblastic differentiation and cell-cell signaling of implant-adherent cells. Materials and methods To assess the early osteoinductive and cell-cell signaling events in adherent cells, commercially pure titanium implants (2.2 × 5 mm) with nanotopography (HF-treated TiO2 grit-blasted) were compared with micron-scale topography TiO2 grit-blasted (micron-scale, control) implants in vivo. Six implants (n = 3/surface) were placed in 10 systemically healthy subjects and removed by reverse threading at 1, 3, and 7 days. Gene expression profiles of adherent cells were interrogated using low-density RT-PCR arrays. Results Osteoinduction was not observed at day 1 on either surface. At 3 days, elevated levels of BMP6, osteopontin, and osterix (OSX) were observed in RNA of cells adherent to both micron-scale and nanotopography surfaces. Both surfaces supported osteoinductive gene expression at 7 days; however, modest elevations of most mRNAs and significantly higher OSX mRNA levels were measured for cells adhered to nanotopography implants. Further, chemokine and cytokine profiles including CXCL10, CXCL14, IL-9, IL-22, and TOLLIP were upregulated on nanotopographic surfaces as compared with microtopographic surfaces. Conclusions Implants with superimposed nanoscale topography generate a greater induction of genes linked to osteogenesis and cell-cell signaling during the early phases of osseointegration.
Aristotle on pleasure

Aristotle's concept of pleasure permeates the RHETORIC. This article examines the concept as treated in NICOMACHEAN ETHICS and the RHETORIC, and suggests its relationship to the types and ends of oratory and the emotions. Especially important is the relationship between pleasure and forensic oratory.
An Interview with Regina Romano Reynolds

Shana L. McDanold had the opportunity to interview Regina Romano Reynolds, head of the National Serials Data Program (NSDP) on January 22, 2006, during the 2006 ALA Midwinter Conference in San Antonio, Texas. They discussed the National Serials Data Program, the International Standard Serial Number (ISSN) and the Medium-Neutral ISSN, Access-level Records for serials, FRBR, AACR2 Chapter Twelve, CONSER Module Thirty-one, and RDA.
An overview of recent advances in Polarimetric SAR information extraction: Algorithms and applications

Recent advances in Polarimetric SAR information extractions are reviewed. Papers published in IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing and IGARSS proceedings over the last five years were included. We found that PolSAR technology has reached a certain degree of maturity. The availability of high-resolution multi-frequency PolSAR data from space borne and airborne SAR systems will stimulate significant PolSAR applications.
Linking Motives and Emotions: A Test of McClelland's Hypotheses

McClelland (1985) hypothesized that motives and emotions are linked in specific ways, with each primary emotion relevant to only one motive. Two studies were generally supportive of the specific links hypothesized by McClelland. In Study 1, participants visualized success at satisfying each of three motives (achievement, affiliation-intimacy, and power); after each visualization, they reported their emotional state. As predicted, levels of interest and surprise were high after the achievement visualization but levels of excitement and focus were also high. Happiness and love were high after the affiliation-intimacy visualization (as predicted) but happiness was also high after the achievement visualization. Levels of anger, disgust, and confusion were highest after the power visualization. In Study 2, participants recalled instances of happiness, sadness, anger, and feeling challenged. Anger stories were most likely to be about power, sadness stories about affiliation-intimacy, and challenge stories about...
Immune cytokines and cardiac disease.

In conditions such as idiopathic dilated congestive cardiomyopathy associated with lymphocytic myocarditis and cardiac allograft rejection, the immune system can reversibly impair cardiac function. Cytokines interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor disrupt β-adrenergic signal transduction and agonist stimulation of contractility. Identification of this reversible effect potentially offers a novel pathophysiologic mechanism for producing cardiac injury.
Dispersion of Small Suspended Particles in a Wave Boundary Layer

Abstract The dispersion of heavy suspensions in a wave boundary layer over a nonerodible bed is examined theoretically. Focusing attention on the horizontal variation of the ambient wave pattern, an effective convection-diffusion equation is derived by extending the theory of homogenization (multiple scales). For the model based on constant eddy diffusivities, the effective velocity of horizontal convection and shear-enhanced dispersion tensor are derived explicitly for very general wave patterns over a horizontal seabed. The convection velocity is found to be related to Eulerian streaming inside the boundary layer, weighted by the mean concentration profile. Particular examples are examined for the release of a finite cloud of suspension beneath gravity waves at various locations relative to the wave pattern.
Problems of asymptotic behavior and stability

THIS PAPER attempts to focus on a number of areas in nonlinear differential equations which appear to be of heightened interest today.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of phosphonate derivatives as autotaxin (ATX) inhibitors.

Abstract Autotaxin (ATX) is an autocrine motility factor that promotes cancer cell invasion, cell migration, and angiogenesis. ATX, originally discovered as a nucleotide phosphodiesterase, is known now to be responsible for the lysophospholipid-preferring phospholipase D activity in plasma. As such, it catalyzes the production of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) from lysophophatidylcholine (LPC). ATX is thus an attractive drug target; small molecular inhibitors might be efficacious in slowing the spread of cancers. With this study we have generated a series of β-keto and β-hydroxy phosphonate derivatives of LPA, some of which are potent ATX inhibitors.
Unveiling the complexity of CK+ AML

In acute myeloid leukemia (AML), cytogenetic abnormalities are present in more than half of patients and these chromosomal alterations are critical factors that determine response to chemotherapy and survival.
Prominence Formation by Localized Heating

We describe a model for the formation of the cool condensed material that comprises a coronal filament or prominence. Numerical calculations are presented which demonstrate that large condensations form in a coronal loop if the loop satisfies two key requirements: (1) the loop heating must be localized near the chromospheric footpoints, and (2) the loop must have a dipped geometry in order to support the prominence condensation against gravity. We calculate one-dimensional equilibrium solutions for the equations of force and energy balance assuming optically thin radiative losses and a parameterized form for the coronal heating. This physical situation is modeled as a boundary value problem, which we solve numerically using a B-spline collocation scheme. The relation of our solutions to the well-known loop scaling laws is discussed, and the implications of our model for active region and quiescent prominences are discussed.
On building automatic camera-management system for online lecture broadcasting

This paper reports our design, and implementation of an automatic lecture-room camera-management system. The motivation for building this system is to facilitate online lecture access and reduce the expense of producing high quality lecture videos. The goal of this project is a camera-management system that can perform as a human video-production team. To achieve this goal, our system collects audio/video signals available in the lecture room and uses the multimodal information to direct our video cameras to interesting events. Compared to previous work--which has tended to be technology centric--we started with interviews with professional video producers and used their knowledge and expertise to create video production rules. We then targeted technology components that allowed us to implement a substantial portion of these rules, including the design of a virtual video director, a speaker cinematographer, and an audience cinematographer. The complete system is installed in parallel with a human-operated video production system in a middle-sized corporate lecture room, and used for broadcasting lectures through the web. The systemi*s performance was compared to that of a human operator via a user study. Results suggest that our system's quality is close to that of a human-controlled system.
The effect of molecular weight on the behavior of hydrophobic polyacids

The effect of the degree of polymerization on the potentiometric titration behavior of alternating copolymers of maleic anhydride and alkyl vinyl ethers was investigated. Apparent abnormalities in the titration curves of the lower oligomers were attributable to endgroups. After accounting for these effects, the potential was found to decrease with diminishing molecular weight. However, the decreases were much more pronounced with the butyl, pentyl, and decyl copolymers which have compact conformations at low degrees of deprotonation, than with the propyl copolymer which shows random coil behavior over its whole ionization range. The standard free energy of complete deprotonation, ΔG°, generally increased with the degree of polymerization, but this increase was relatively small compared to the difference between ΔG° of the monomer and ΔG° of the lowest oligomer investigated.
A case report of treatment of offence related PTSD

PTSD symptoms have been widely reported within the research literature following the perpetration of violent crime. This case study illustrates the application of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) within a prison environment using a psychological model of PTSD. The individual had endured a number of traumatic events and was experiencing symptoms related to memories of his index offence of murder. Following completion of therapy, symptoms were significantly decreased, and his functioning and level of distress was much improved. Implications are that offence related PTSD can be treated with CBT in a prison, and that thorough assessment identifying avoidance needs to be completed before offending behaviour programmes are targeted to decrease the risk of re-offending.
Outcome-Based Evaluation Tool to Evaluate Student Performance in High-Fidelity Simulation

Abstract Outcome-based evaluation of student performance is required to evaluate student mastery of course objectives, validate efficacy of this simulation learning modality, facilitate reflection, and guide the debriefing process. To this end an evaluation matrix was developed integrating the American Association Colleges of Nursing BSN competencies and course objectives from a United States college of nursing baccalaureate program. Specific evaluated behaviors included assessment, critical thinking, patient care, communication, and professionalism. Analysis of this tool indicates it provides an effective method for consistent, outcome-based evaluation of student performance in simulation experiences across the curriculum. The tool was designed to be informative and efficient for faculty evaluators and students' self-evaluation.
THE EFFECTS OF MEAL SCHEDULE AND QUANTITY ON PROBLEMATIC BEHAVIOR

We present 2 case examples that illustrate the effects of meal schedule and quantity on displays of problematic behavior. In the first example, self-injury displayed by a toddler with severe developmental delays was maintained by parent attention, but only when he was satiated for food. When he was food deprived, self-injury decreased but did not appear to be differentiated across low or high social conditions. In the second example, crying and self-injury displayed by an elementary-aged girl with severe disabilities were correlated: Both behaviors were associated with food quantity, and neither behavior was responsive to social stimuli. These results replicate and extend previous findings demonstrating that meal schedule or food quantity can affect problematic behavior. In the present studies, brief functional analyses of aberrant behavior provided useful information for interpreting distinct patterns of behavior displayed by each child. We discuss these results in terms of the concept of establishing operations.
Interaction of estrogen and gonadotrophins on follicular atresia.

We have investigated follicular atresia by giving hypophysectomized immature female rats (HIFR) diethylstibestrol or gonadotrophins with and without the chemical antiestrogen CI-628, making total counts of normal and atretic follicles greater than 125 μM in diameter, and using a simple model to analyze data. Our results show an anti-atretic effect of estrogen, independent of its well documented mitogenic effect on preantral follicles. We have also shown that CI-628 acts as an anti-estrogen to block follicular proliferation, while acting as an estrogen to inhibit atresia. In addition, we have observed an increase in atresia caused by gonadotrophins, in opposition to their estrogen-mediated positive effect on follicular growth. (Endocrinology 96: 1145, 1975)
Biochemical measurements of endomyocardial biopsies.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the validity of performing biochemical analyses on human endomyocardlal biopsies. One problem of such analyses is the decay of metabolites between the time of biopsy and the analyses. This was addressed by varying the time delay from biopsy to submersion in liquid nitrogen (-200°C). Neither cyclic AMP or cyclic GMP changed significantly up to 90 seconds after biopsy. The reproduclblllty of the assays in human heart biopsies was determined by submitting paired samples from each procedure. The ATP content was determined by a fluorescent technique and was related to the protein and creative content. The average ATP of 25 paired samples was 12.3 nm per mg protein; the average difference between the paired samples was -0.6, and the 95%confidence Interval was 5.6 nm/mg protein. The average ATP-to-creatJne ratio was 0.25; the 95% confidence interval was 0.12. The cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP were found to average 3.3 and 0.25 femtomoles/mcg protein, respectively. The 95% confidence intervals were 1.8 and 0.12 fmoles/mcg protein. The problems of sampling error and blood and connective tissue contamination decrease the reliability of the biochemical analyses. Reproduclblllty is adequate, however, to acquire meaningful biochemical information on the human heart.
Biventricular conversion after single ventricle palliation in patients with small left heart structures: short-term outcomes.

Background Patients with borderline small left heart (LH) structures who initially undergo single ventricle palliation (SVP) may eventually become candidates for biventricular conversion (BC). The purpose of this study was to describe our surgical experience with BC in patients with small LH. Methods We reviewed our institution's records for patients who underwent BC after an initial SVP between 1995 and 2012. Patients underwent an aortopulmonary amalgamation procedure as a part of their initial palliation. Data on imaging, BC operative details, and re-interventions after BC were collected. Results Twenty-eight patients underwent BC. Twenty patients had hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), 7 patients had unbalanced common atrioventricular canal (uCAVC), and 1 had interrupted aortic arch with VSD. Stage of palliation at BC was stage 1 in 6 patients (21.4%), bidirectional Glenn in 19 (67.9%), and Fontan in 3 (10.7%). Prior to BC, the median left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) by echocardiography was 58.1 mL/m 2 in the HLHS group and 28.1 mL/m 2 in the uCAVC group. After BC, the LVEDV increased to 91.3 mL/m 2 in the HLHS group and 58.5 mL/m 2 in the uCAVC group ( p Conclusions Biventricular conversion can be applied to patients with HLHS and uCAVC and borderline LH with acceptable short-term results. Left heart size increases after BC, but follow-up for potential left atrial hypertension is warranted.
Cellular structure and ultrastructure of the black coral Antipathes aperta: 2. The gastrodermis and its collar cells.

The gastrodermis of the black coral Antipathes aperta is associated with eight distinct types of cells, including two types of microbasic b-mastigophores (nematocysts), spumous and vesicular mucus cells, and ganglion cells that are essentially the same as in the epidermis. Three additional types of cells are unique to the gastrodermis, and are readily distinguished from those of the epidermis by their electron-opaque inclusions. These include lipoidal cells, zymogen digestive cells, and an unusual type of epitheliomuscular collar cell. The pharyngeal region is characterized by the presence of electron-opaque nematocysts, a scattering of zymogen cells, and a large number of collar cells. The latter are distinguished in part by the presence of dense microfibrillar processes that surround the microvilli and extend into adjacent collars. This interconnection results in the formation of an extensive pharyngeal meshwork. These collar cells are additionally distinguished by the placement of the collar and flagellum adjacent to a flared cup of cytoplasm. This portion of the cell is capable of endocytosis of relatively large unicellular prey, and apparently is capable of forming digestive vesicles as well. The pharyngeal gastrodermis grades into simple lobate septal filaments toward the base of the coelenteron, where large, granular nematocysts all but replace the smaller electron-opaque types Collar cells are found here as well, but in fewer numbers compared to the zymogen cells. Ultrastructural results are compared with those of other coelenterates and discussed in terms of food and modes of nutrition.
Esophageal abnormalities and dysphagia in polymyositis and dermatomyositis

Structural or functional abnormalities of the distal esophagus were demonstrated by cineradiography in 14 of 16 patients with polymyositis or dermatomyositis who had been incompletely responsive to high dose corticosteroids and, in some cases, immunosuppressive therapy, or who had adverse effects associated with these therapies. These distal abnormalities occurred in the absence of proximal esophageal skeletal muscle dysfunction in 70% of patients, usually were more frequent with increasing disease duration, and were functionally similar to abnormalities reported in scleroderma. Symptomatic improvement occurred to some patients with administration of antacids and measures designed to decrease esophageal reflux, but improved esophageal symptoms did not correlate with improvement in the myositis. In 18 autopsy subjects with similar histories, distal esophageal smooth muscle atrophy and fibrosis occurred in only 1 and 2 cases, respectively. Of 5 in whom distal esophageal dysmotility had been documented ante-mortem, only 1 had fibrosis and none had smooth muscle atrophy. These findings suggest that factors other than fibrosis and muscle atrophy may contribute to distal esophageal dysmotility in polymyositis and dermatomyositis.
Effects of posterior capsule tightness on subacromial contact behavior during shoulder motions

Background Although posterior capsule tightness is believed to cause abnormal contact in the subacromial space, it is not clear whether this tightness changes the contact between the acromion and humeral head. Materials and methods Nine fresh, frozen cadaveric shoulders were used to measure contact pressure on the coracoacromial arch during passive flexion, abduction, and internal and external rotation at 90° of elevation in the scapular plane, as well as horizontal adduction and abduction. The site where the peak contact pressure occurred was also observed. The posterior capsule in the region from 8 to 10 o'clock in the right shoulder was plicated to simulate posterior capsule tightness. Results Peak contact pressure significantly increased with the tightened posterior capsule during flexion. Although peak contact pressure on the coracoacromial ligament during internal rotation significantly increased after capsule tightening, there was no significant increase in pressure when considering the entire coracoacromial arch. The angle where the peak contact pressure occurred during flexion was not significantly far from the end range. The site of the peak contact pressure in 7 of 9 shoulders was on the lesser tuberosity during flexion, regardless of the posterior capsule tightness. Conclusions Posterior capsule tightness increased contact pressure mainly on the lesser tuberosity during flexion. The peak contact pressure occurred close to the end range of flexion, mainly on the lesser tuberosity. These findings are useful to understand the contribution of posterior capsule tightness to subacromial contact.
Reversing systemic inflammatory response syndrome with chemokine receptor pepducins

We describe a new therapeutic approach for the treatment of lethal sepsis using cell-penetrating lipopeptides-termed pepducins-that target either individual or multiple chemokine receptors. Interleukin-8 (IL-8), a ligand for the CXCR1 and CXCR2 receptors, is the most potent endogenous proinflammatory chemokine in sepsis. IL-8 levels rise in blood and lung fluids to activate neutrophils and other cells, and correlate with shock, lung injury and high mortality. We show that pepducins derived from either the i1 or i3 intracellular loops of CXCR1 and CXCR2 prevent the IL-8 response of both receptors and reverse the lethal sequelae of sepsis, including disseminated intravascular coagulation and multi-organ failure in mice. Conversely, pepducins selective for CXCR4 cause a massive leukocytosis that does not affect survival. CXCR1 and CXCR2 pepducins conferred nearly 100% survival even when treatment was postponed, suggesting that our approach might be beneficial in the setting of advanced disease.
Prediction of somatic and non-somatic depressive symptoms between inpatient rehabilitation and follow-up.

Longitudinal. We identified changes in the association of somatic and non-somatic symptoms (as measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, PHQ-9) between inpatient rehabilitation after spinal cord injury (SCI) and 1 year after discharge. A specialty hospital in the Southeastern USA. A total of 584 adults with traumatic SCI were administered the PHQ-9 during inpatient rehabilitation. Of them, 227 completed the PHQ-9 by survey at 1-year follow-up. We performed time-lagged regression between times of measurement for somatic and non-somatic factors of the PHQ-9. The non-somatic factor at baseline was significantly predictive of the non-somatic (r=0.67, P=0.002) and somatic factors at follow-up (r=0.53, P=0.019). The somatic factor did not significantly predict either the somatic (r=0.10, n.s.) or non-somatic factors at follow-up (r=−0.01, NS). Factor analysis also indicated changing factor structure between inpatient rehabilitation and follow-up. Our results question the interpretation of somatic items during inpatient rehabilitation, as they are not predictive of either somatic or non-somatic symptoms at follow-up.
Pedagogical Content Knowledge and Preparation of High School Physics Teachers.

This paper contains a scholarly description of pedagogical practices of the Rutgers Physics/Physical Science Teacher Preparation program. The program focuses on three aspects of teacher preparation: knowledge of physics, knowledge of pedagogy, and knowledge of how to teach physics (pedagogical content knowledge---PCK). The program has been in place for 7 years and has a steady production rate of an average of six teachers per year who remain in the profession. The main purpose of the paper is to provide information about a possible structure, organization, and individual elements of a program that prepares physics teachers. The philosophy of the program and the coursework can be implemented either in a physics department or in a school of education. The paper provides details about the program course work and teaching experiences and suggests ways to adapt it to other local conditions.
On the flow field in the Chirikov Basin

Abstract Current measurements from moorings in the Anadyr, Shpanberg and Bering straits and the Chirikov Basin each year from 1985 to 1988 over the summer production period (June–September) shed new light on the regional flow regime. Analyses focus on water conservation and residence times in the Chirikov Basin and the relationships between flows and regional wind field. The primary finding is the existence of two flow modes, a “Summer” mode lasting for 2–4 months each year, then a sharp transition about the middle of August each year to a “Fall” mode which prevails until the following April, May or June; periods of low flow variability as long as one month at other times of the year do not establish Summer flow conditions. All aspects of the flow field differ depending on which mode is active: north transport, coupling of flow to local winds, flow energy, incidence of flow reversals, and residence times. The cause for the modal behavior is marked differences in both the speed and direction of local winds and the degree of north-south wind divergence-convergence over the Bering Strait region. Analyses of flow reversals in one or more of the straits (there are four patterns) show how they are related to the regional winds.
The sensitivity of PCR detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts in fecal samples using two DNA extraction methods.

Background: The implementation of cost-effective intervention strategies for zoonotic protozoa relies on the development of sensitive and accurate diagnostic methods. We carried out a study to evaluate the accuracy of a PCR method for the detection of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts in fecal samples from cattle. Methods: Fecal samples were spiked with different numbers of oocysts and the limit of detection of the method was determined. Two methods of DNA extraction were assessed: glass beads and freeze-thawing using liquid nitrogen. A nested PCR approach was developed targeting the Cryptosporidium SSU rRNA and TRAP-C2 genes. Agreement between the diagnosis of Cryptosporidium spp. at the SSU rRNA and TRAP-C2 loci was quantified using the κ-coefficient. Results: Compared with the freeze-thawing method, the glass beads method was found to be a better way of extracting DNA from Cryptosporidium oocysts (sensitivities were 83 and 100%, respectively). The limits of detection for glass beads and freeze-thaw were low, 1 and 10 oocyst/g fecal samples, respectively. Forty-six percent of the field samples previously classified as negative for Cryptosporidium parvum by the floatation-concentration and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods showed DNA with the PCR protocol. Conclusion: Primers for SSU rRNA are more successful in producing an amplification than primers for the TRAP-C2 gene which makes the former PCR protocol the approach of choice for detecting Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts in field samples.
Spectral efficiency of blackness induction

The spectral efficiency of blackness induction was measured in three normal trichromatic observers and in one deuteranomalous observer. The psychophysical task was to adjust the radiance of a monochromatic 60-120' annulus until a 45' central broadband field just turned black and its contour became indiscriminable from a dark surrounding gap that separated it from the annulus. The reciprocal of the radiance required to induce blackness with annulus wavelengths between 420 and 680 nm was used to define a spectral-efficiency function for the blackness component of the achromatic process. For each observer, the shape of this blackness-sensitivity function agreed with the spectral-efficiency function based on heterochromatic flicker photometry when measured with the same 60-120' annulus. Both of these functions matched the Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage V lambda function except at short wavelengths. Ancillary measurements showed that the latter difference in sensitivity can be ascribed to nonuniformities of preretinal absorption, since the annular field excluded the central 60' of the fovea. Thus our evidence indicates that, at least to a good first approximation, induced blackness is inversely related to the spectral-luminosity function. These findings are consistent with a model that separates the achromatic and the chromatic pathways.
Groups perform better than the best individuals on letters-to-numbers problems: Informative equations and effective strategies

One-hundred 3-person groups and 300 individuals solved 2 letters-to-numbers problems, requiring identification of the coding of 10 letters to 10 numbers by proposing an equation in letters, receiving the answer in letters, proposing a hypothesis, and receiving feedback on the hypothesis on each trial. There were 5 instruction conditions: (a). standard, (b). use at least 3 letters on all equations, (c). use at least 4 letters on all equations, (d). number 1 known before beginning problem, and (e). number 9 known before beginning problem. The groups had fewer trials to solution, proposed more complex equations, and identified more letters per equation than the best individuals. Performance was best under instructions to use at least 4 letters and with the number 9 known.
Applying Erikson's wisdom to self-management practices of older adults: findings from two field studies

According to Erik Erikson's theory on the stages of human development, achieving wisdom later in life involves revisiting previous crises and renewing psychosocial accomplishments. However, few studies have used Erikson's theory as a framework for examining how older adults self-manage physical and mental health changes that commonly occur later in life. This article presents findings from two qualitative studies that demonstrate how older adults apply wisdom in new domains. Specifically, it was found that older adults (1) reasserted autonomy by initiating creative problem solving and (2) applied skills gained from productive activities earlier in life to new health-related problems that arise later in life. These findings highlight the importance of engaging older adults to repurpose their life skills and thus reapply wisdom to new areas of their lives. Implications for practice are discussed.
Reduction of incidence of diethylstilbestrol-induced aortic ruptures of turkeys with methimazole.

Abstract Turkeys were treated with 7 weekly injections of diethylstilbestrol (DES), with or without dietary supplementation with methimazole (M). Aortic atherosclerosis and mortality from aortic rhexis were greatest in DES-treated poults, intermediate in DES-treated poults fed 0.005% M and least in DES-treated poults fed 0.01% M. The highest plasma cholesterol levels were recorded among groups of turkeys which experienced the highest mortality from aortic rhexis. Both heart rate and systolic blood pressure were depressed in DES-treated birds fed 0.01% M, but only systolic blood pressure was depressed by the feeding of 0.005% M to DES-treated turkeys. In DES-treated turkeys, with or without dietary supplementation with M, the degree of hypothyroidism was inversely related to mortality rate from aortic rupture. Contrasted to control turkeys, the lipoprotein pattern of DES-treated turkeys, with and without dietary supplementation with M, was characterized by a large increase in chylomicron concentration, a faint pre-beta band and a complete absence of β- and α-lipoproteins.
Stabilization of an active harmonically mode-locked fiber laser using two-photon absorption

Two-photon absorption provided by a semiconductor mirror structure is shown to reduce amplitude fluctuations significantly in a harmonically mode-locked fiber ring laser. Pulse dropouts are eliminated in a laser that produces picosecond pulses at a repetition rate of 2 GHz.
PLASMA PROTEIN ISOLATE AND TEXTURED SOY PROTEIN IN GROUND BEEF FORMULATIONS

Cow meat and U.S. Choice or Good beef plates were used to make 20 ground beef formulations. One batch contained only beef (control), 9 batches contained beef and TSP (one of three brands at one of three substitution levels), 1 batch contained beef and PPI, and 9 batches contained both TSP and PPI. Brand of TSP affected color of the raw patties and appearance and dimensional shrinkage of cooked patties, with direction and extent of effects on raw patty color and cooked patty dimensions being determined by the interaction of TSP brand with level of TSP substitution and/or use of PPI. Addition of 1% PPI improved (P < 0.05) the texture, flavor and palatability of patties and increased (P < 0.05) the cohesiveness of cooked patties (as measured by force and area under the deformation curve), irrespective of brand or substitution level of TSP. The effect of addition of 1% PPI on texture and appearance of raw patties and on weight loss and dimensional shrinkage of cooked patties was a function of the combined effects of brand of TSP, percentage of TSP and use of PPI. In general, however, use of 1% PPI was not able to negate most of the undesirable effects of 20% or 30% TSP addition.
Cascaded Raman microlaser in air and buffer

Optical microcavities provide an intriguing platform for the development of low threshold microlasers based on nonlinear effects. Long photon lifetimes within the cavity translate to high circulating optical intensities, thereby reducing the lasing threshold. It is therefore possible to create lasers that can operate in complex environments. In the present work, we use a silica microsphere to demonstrate a cascaded Raman microlaser that operates in air and buffer with the first emission peak around 800 nm in both environments. As expected, the threshold in air is significantly lower than in buffer.
Contemporary fisheries stock assessment: many issues still remain

Interpretation of data used in fisheries assessment and management requires knowledge of population (e.g. growth, natural mortality, and recruitment), fisheries (e.g. selectivity), and sampling processes. Without this knowledge, assumptions need to be made, either implicitly or explicitly based on the methods used. Incorrect assumptions can have a substantial impact on stock assessment results and management advice. Unfortunately, there is a lack of understanding of these processes for most, if not all, stocks and even for processes that have traditionally been assumed to be well understood (e.g. growth and selectivity). We use information content of typical fisheries data that is informative about absolute abundance to illustrate some of the main issues in fisheries stock assessment. We concentrate on information about absolute abundance from indices of relative abundance combined with catch, and age and length-composition data and how the information depends on knowledge of population, fishing, and sampling processes. We also illustrate two recently developed diagnostic methods that can be used to evaluate the absolute abundance information content of the data. Finally, we discuss some of the reasons for the slowness of progress in fisheries stock assessment.
Breast Cancer Screening: A 35-Year Perspective

Screening for breast cancer has been evaluated by 9 randomized trials over 5 decades and recommended by major guideline groups for more than 3 decades. Successes and lessons for cancer screening from this history include development of scientific methods to evaluate screening, by the Canadian Task Force on the Periodic Health Examination and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force; the importance of randomized trials in the past, and the increasing need to develop new methods to evaluate cancer screening in the future; the challenge of assessing new technologies that are replacing originally evaluated screening tests; the need to measure false-positive screening test results and the difficulty in reducing their frequency; the unexpected emergence of overdiagnosis due to cancer screening; the difficulty in stratifying individuals according to breast cancer risk; women's fear of breast cancer and the public outrage over changing guidelines for breast cancer screening; the need for population scientists to better communicate with the public if evidence-based recommendations are to be heeded by clinicians, patients, and insurers; new developments in the primary prevention of cancers; and the interaction between improved treatment and screening, which, over time, and together with primary prevention, may decrease the need for cancer screening.