cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the Dynamic Tailoring of One-Way Surface Plasmons over Drift-Biased Graphene Metasurfaces

Drift-biased graphene enables strong nonreciprocal light-matter interactions. In this work, we show that applying two longitudinal DC bias orthogonal to each other permits to greatly manipulate the isofrequency contour of the surface in a nonreciprocal manner, allowing to dynamically steer and canalize one-way plasmons towards desired directions in the plane. Through a dedicated Green’s function formalism that takes graphene’s intrinsic nonlocality into account, we demonstrate that simply controlling two bias of just a few volts enables unprecedented flexibility to synthesize a large variety of nonreciprocal and broadband electromagnetic responses over a unique physical surface. Our findings may open intriguing applications in dynamic sub-diffractive imaging and sensing systems as well as in the routing and processing of surface plasmons.
A Short Note on Application of Bachelier Option Model to FRAs; with Comment on Black 1976

This Short Note arises from questions about applying the Bachelier model to FRAs which arose as interest rates went negative leading to a failure of the Black 1976 model used by convention as the market price model. The paper reviews the Black ’76 model form highlighting reasons for this failure. Alternate Bachelier model based on log normal and yield standard error measures are shown to have similar limitations. Other extant models derived from the Black-Scholes model form have consistent failings. Given this, the author defines a Bachelier spread model in terms of yields and the related note price. It is shown these create the same price outcomes for all positive, negative and nil values of the note yield. It can then be shown the Black ’76 model for instance systematically misprices as the Note yields go to zero and fails below zero. Recommendation is the price model be moved from the log normal, yield standard error model form to the Bachelier style spread model formulated consistent with that detailed in this paper.
Next-generation inward rectifier potassium channel modulators: discovery and molecular pharmacology.

Inward rectifying potassium (Kir) channels play important roles in both excitable and nonexcitable cells of various organ systems and could represent valuable new drug targets for cardiovascular, m...
Predictors of Stillbirth for Cows Moved to Calving Pens when Calving is Imminent

The objective of this study was to identify predictors for stillbirth in cows moved from freestalls to a calving pen when calving is imminent. The risk of stillbirth was modeled using multivariate logistic regression. The calving ease score (CES) was contracted to three levels of assistance (1: none, 2: light and 3+: required). The advance of parturition at moving time was scored as a) presence of only mucus, b) presence of a "water bag" or c) presence of feet. The other predictors tested were parity, total serum calcium, calf weight (CW) and BCS. A total of 495 single births were observed on a 2,500-cow dairy, with 15% stillbirths. The odds ratios adjusted for the other predictors are shown. Stillbirth was not associated with BCS. Compared to unassisted calvings (CESl), the odds of stillbirth were 2.9x higher for CES2 and 46x higher for CES3+. Stillbirth odds were reduced by 36% per 1 % unit increase of CW relative to the dam (OR = 0.64), and by 22% per 1 mg/dL increase in calcium (OR = 0.78). The odds of stillbirth were 5.2x higher for heifers vs. cows. Cows moved to a calving pen earlier in the parturition process (mucus only) were 2.5x more at risk of stillbirth than those moved later with a "water bag", but presence of feet was not different from the "water bag" stage. The fact that advance of parturition, parity and serum calcium remained in the model after adjustment for CES could be due to an association with duration of calving.
Book of Revelation Author and Canon

John the Apostle's authorship of the Book Revelation has been challenged along with the historical timing of the inclusion of the Book of Revelation in the Cannon of Scripture. The historical evidence along with textual evidence support that John was the author and the Book of Revelation was considered by the Church from the early days of the Church.
Insm1, Neurod1, and Pax6 promote murine pancreatic endocrine cell development through overlapping yet distinct RNA transcription and splicing programs

Insm1, Neurod1, and Pax6 are essential for the formation and function of pancreatic endocrine cells. Here, we report comparative immunohistochemical, transcriptomic, functional enrichment, and RNA splicing analyses of these genes using gene knock-out mice. Quantitative immunohistochemical analysis confirmed that elimination of each of these three factors variably impairs the proliferation, survival, and differentiation of endocrine cells. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that each factor contributes uniquely to the transcriptome although their effects were overlapping. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that genes downregulated by the elimination of Insm1, Neurod1, and Pax6 are commonly involved in mRNA metabolism, chromatin organization, secretion, and cell cycle regulation, and upregulated genes are associated with protein degradation, autophagy, and apoptotic process. Elimination of Insm1, Neurod1, and Pax6 impaired expression of many RNA-binding proteins thereby altering RNA splicing events, including for Syt14 and Snap25, two genes required for insulin secretion. All three factors are necessary for normal splicing of Syt14, and both Insm1 and Pax6 are necessary for the processing of Snap25. Collectively, these data provide new insights into how Insm1, Neurod1, and Pax6 contribute to the formation of functional pancreatic endocrine cells.
Belief/Faith in God and Other God-Relationships

This chapter has as its subject relationships to God, or God-relationships, that are recognized or allowed in the Christian tradition. Faith, or belief/faith, in God forms a relationship to God defined by belief. Also, though, the tradition recognizes God-relationships that do not emphasize belief. In this regard the thinking of Jacob Boehme and Johann Arndt is discussed. The New Testament itself presents ways of relating to God that de-emphasize belief, and two are brought into relief. One is following Jesus. The other is abiding in Jesus or God. Though the first, the requirements of which are elucidated by passages in The Imitation of Christ, and forms of the second may require a residual element of belief, both, this chapter argues, are not defined by belief, but by turning from self and toward God and by love of God and of one’s neighbors.
Evaluation of a Static Dashboard to Support Resident Learning and Competency Assessment

This study aimed to evaluate a dashboard designed by the Internal Medicine Residency Program Clinical Competency Committee at the University of Cincinnati by conducting semi-structured interviews and a card-sorting activity. We found that users of the system were well equipped to share actionable insights about the current system and that they provided useful commentary that will inform the design of a new system that is more dynamic and that will fit the needs of the current users more effectively.
How Demographic Change Will Drive Benefits Design

This paper examines the implications of an aging labor force and its changing composition for worker demand for employer-sponsored benefits. We estimate age- and gender-specific probabilities of participation among workers offered 401(k) plans, health insurance, and short- and long-term disability insurance using data from the Survey of Employee Benefits Supplement to the April 1993 Current Population Survey. We find that older women at all tenure levels, and older men in new jobs, are more likely than middle-aged employees (ages 35-44) to hold balances in 401(k) plans. For both men and women, older workers' demand for employer-sponsored health insurance is substantially stronger than that of middle-aged workers in plans that offer retiree insurance. Finally, men ages 45-54 are more likely than their middle-age counterparts to elect short-term disability insurance, while men nearing retirement are less likely to opt for long-term disability coverage. Based on these findings, we predict that the increasing proportion of women in the labor force, and an aging labor force overall, will increase demand for savings vehicles such as 401k plans and for health insurance with provision for retiree insurance. Demand is also likely to increase for short-term disability coverage, but to decrease for long-term disability.
Studies of aldehyde oxidase by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. II. Kinetic studies by rapid freezing.

Abstract The kinetics of appearance and disappearance of the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) signals of aldehyde oxidase under various conditions were studied by a rapid freezing technique. Electron spin relaxation of the paramagnetic flavin and molybdenum species was monitored during these experiments. The kinetics of reduction and reoxidation of molybdenum, iron, and flavin, revealed by EPR measurements, were compatible with the participation of these substances in the normal catalytic cycle of this enzyme. In the steady state molybdenum is partly reduced, whereas the iron and flavin components are largely oxidized. Hence, reduction of molybdenum and oxidation of flavin and iron are relatively rapid reactions. No unambiguous evidence for a linear sequence of electron carriers was obtained, but a sequence of electron transfer from substrate to molybdenum, flavin, and iron is compatible with most results. The results of the electron spin relaxation measurements indicate a multiplicity of subtile interactions among the electron carriers involved, dependent on time of reaction, type of substrate, and degree of reduction. The multiple complexities in the reaction patterns of enzymes incorporating several electron carriers, as they become apparent in studies of the kind presented here, are discussed.
Perversity and Post-Marxian Thought in Buñuel's Late Films

This article examines certain motifs from Luis Bunuel's late bourgeois trilogy-- The Discreet Charm of the Bourgoisie ( Le Charme Discret de la Bourgeoisie, 1972), The Phantom of Liberty ( Le Fantome de la Liberte, 1974), and That Obscure Object of Desire ( Cet Obscur Objet du Desir , 1977)--in order to show how they anticipate key trends in contemporary post-Marxian philosophy. In doing so, it draws upon the work of Slavoj Žižek, whose Lacanian revision of Hegel has provided a model of ideology critique that preserves the structure of dialectical thought while avoiding the impulse to project a closed vision of subjectivity and historical change. In particular, such a model offers a means of reconsidering Bunuel’s concern with the perverse . Rather than having a singular ideological content (i.e., the repressed desire for freedom within bourgeois consciousness), the perverse in Bunuel’s films serves as a more volatile index of ideological conflict: freedom becomes perverse from the perspective of law, and law becomes perverse from the perspective of freedom. To recognize these dialectical reversals not only offers a means of appreciating Bunuel’s sense of humor, but also sheds light on how the late films situate "bourgeois" and "revolutionary" impulses in a much more complex, interdependent, and dynamic relationship with one another.
A Listening Keyboard for Users with Motor Impairments—A Usability Study

Computer users with motor impairments find it difficult and, in many cases, impossible to access PC functionality through the physical keyboard-and-mouse interface. Studies show that even able-bodied users experience similar difficulties when interacting with mobile devices; this is due to the reduced size/usability of the input interfaces. Advances in speech recognition have made it possible to design speech interfaces for alphanumeric data entry and indirect manipulation (cursor control). Although several related commercial applications exist, such systems do not provide a complete solution for arbitrary keyboard and mouse access, such as the access needed for, say, typing, compiling, and executing a C++ program. We carried out a usability study to support the development of a speech user interface for arbitrary keyboard access and mouse control. The study showed that speech interaction with an ideal listening keyboard is better for users with motor impairments than handstick, in terms of task completion time (37% better), typing rate (74% better), and error rates (63% better). We believe that these results apply to both permanent and task-induced motor impairments. In particular, a follow-up experiment showed that handstick approximates conventional modes of alphanumeric input available on mobile devices (e.g., PDAs, cellular phones, and personal organizers). These modes of input include miniaturized keyboards, stylus “soft” keyboards, cellular phone numberpads, and handwriting recognition software. This result suggests that a listening keyboard would be an effective mode for alphanumeric input on future mobile devices. This study contributed to the development of SUITEKeys—a speech user interface for arbitrary keyboard and mouse access available for MS platforms as freeware.
Harmonic generation from YBCO microwave resonators

Measurement of harmonic power on a suspended stripline microwave resonator patterned out of thin film YBa_2Cu_3O_7 (YBCO) has been carried out as a function of temperature and microwave power. The third harmonic power P_3 shows a subtle nonlinear dependence on the fundamental power P_1 on a log-log scale. Fit to a straight line yields slopes of P_3 vs. P_1 between 1.5 to 3, contrary to elementary calculations that predict a slope of exactly 3. It is shown that third harmonic power generated from higher order terms in the nonlinear impedance could account for the discrepancy quantitatively without resorting to any additional ad-hoc assumptions. Results of measurement of fifth harmonic power is presented as a confirmation. A small second harmonic power is also observed that does not show anomalous power dependence within the experimental accuracy.
Compulsion and Addiction

In this paper, the proposal is advanced that addictions may be understood analytically to be a subset of compulsions, and correspondingly that they may frequently be suitable for psychoanalytic treatment. A revision of the definition of addictions and compulsions is suggested, and some treatment implications of this revision are considered.
Community Based Accountability in Afghanistan: Recommendations to Balance the Interests of Justice

This chapter examines the advisable scope of ICC authority in contrast to the traditional dispute mechanisms encountered in Afghanistan [in the context of a weak central authority facing resurgent Taliban influences]. Theoretical constructs of jus post bellum are most challenged by the realities of a complex choreography of authoritative local actors capable of administering justice/reconciliation grounded in sociological legitimacy, national officials, and the supranational jurisdiction of the ICC. From the perspective of victims and community leaders, the external interference of the ICC is in itself a controversial and complex aspect of “justice.” The balance between prosecutions, reintegration of particular perpetrators, forgiveness, reparations, truth-telling, and apology is a delicate process because the fundamental nature of the social contract between the individual and the state is in flux, just as the nature of the relationship between the state and the supranational Court is evolving. To ameliorate what will be a recurring problem as it begins its second decade of operation, the ICC needs to develop a consistent and analytically defensible framework for understanding community based processes in light of the “interests of justice” analysis permitted by the Rome Statute. Conversely, Afghanistan needs to implement a statutory scheme that streamlines the manner in which disputes are brought into the formalized justice system or addressed in informal community based mechanisms. This chapter closes with a recommended statutory scheme that would preserve the legitimacy and availability of community based mechanisms while preserving the ability of formalized domestic or international prosecutions when localized settlements would undermine domestic statutes, human rights norms, or offend the interests of justice.
Patient cues and symptoms of psychosocial distress: what predicts assessment and treatment of distress by oncology clinicians?

Objective Psychosocial concerns arise after a cancer diagnosis and during treatment requiring oncology clinicians to initiate discussions to identify distress. This study examined patient–clinician communication about psychosocial concerns and predictors of assessment and treatment/referral for distress. Methods Secondary analysis of existing dataset coded to explore patient–clinician communication during ambulatory visits in two comprehensive cancer centers was carried out. Sample included adult patients with various cancers and stages. Dataset included audio-recordings and symptom/QOL reports 4–6 weeks after starting treatment from all distressed patients (n = 66) in parent study and random sample of nondistressed patients (n = 23). Distressed patients had moderate-to-severe depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 scores ≥10) and/or poor emotional functioning (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire emotional function scores <50). Audio-recordings were coded to describe patient–clinician communication about psychosocial concerns using the coding scheme from the parent study plus Medical Interview Aural Rating System. Results The remaining patients gave 222 cues of psychosocial concerns: 183 from 46 distressed patients and 39 from nine nondistressed patients. Distressed patients were younger, were female, had higher symptom burden, and/or gave more cues. Significantly, more distressed patients had at least one cue/visit. Clinicians initiated 62% of discussions overall with no statistical difference between distressed and nondistressed groups. More explicit cues and more than four cues predicted treatment/referral for distress. Conclusions Distressed patients were younger, were female, had higher symptom burden, and/or gave more verbal cues. Clinicians responded to explicit and more frequent cues by providing treatment and/or referrals for distress. Further exploration is needed regarding clinician factors related to assessment of psychosocial concerns. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Supporting Child Welfare Traineeship Students through an Online Peer Network

This article describes the implementation of a peer network for social work traineeship students pursuing or continuing careers in child welfare. Literature on the best principles and practices for online community building reviewed and an explanation of how these best practices were utilized to build the online community is provided. Initial program design is described as well as program developments that occurred over four years of the program. The article then examines how the program’s evaluation was carried out and reviews some of the evaluation data. The article concludes with a discussion about the successes and challenges experienced in building the peer network and how other social work or traineeship programs, or agencies, might use an online peer network to support social work students and professionals.
Repetitive ventricular fibrillation in myocardial infarction refractory to bretylium tosylate subsequently controlled by ventricular pacing.

Abstract A 51 year old man began to have recurrent bouts of ventricular fibrillation 7 days after the occurrence of an extensive acute anteroseptal and lateral myocardial infarct. Lidocaine and quinidine were not effective therapeutically. Bretylium tosylate was given intravenously in increasing doses and frequency without suppressing the episodes of ventricular fibrillation. After 28 such episodes, ventricular pacing terminated the recurrences abruptly, and the patient made an uneventful and complete recovery.
Combining immunological and androgen-directed approaches: an emerging concept in prostate cancer immunotherapy

Purpose of review The autologous antigen-presenting cell immunotherapy, sipuleucel-T, was the first and remains the only US Food and Drug Administration-approved immunotherapy for prostate cancer. In this article, we will summarize recent clinical data on several additional immune-directed strategies, some of which have now entered phase 3 trials.
Smooth Muscle-specific Expression of Calcium-independent Phospholipase A2β (iPLA2β) Participates in the Initiation and Early Progression of Vascular Inflammation and Neointima Formation

Whether group VIA phospholipase A2 (iPLA2β) is involved in vascular inflammation and neointima formation is largely unknown. Here, we report that iPLA2β expression increases in the vascular tunica media upon carotid artery ligation and that neointima formation is suppressed by genetic deletion of iPLA2β or by inhibiting its activity or expression via perivascular delivery of bromoenol lactone or of antisense oligonucleotides, respectively. To investigate whether smooth muscle-specific iPLA2β is involved in neointima formation, we generated transgenic mice in which iPLA2β is expressed specifically in smooth muscle cells and demonstrate that smooth muscle-specific expression of iPLA2β exacerbates ligation-induced neointima formation and enhanced both production of proinflammatory cytokines and vascular infiltration by macrophages. With cultured vascular smooth muscle cell, angiotensin II, arachidonic acid, and TNF-α markedly induce increased expression of IL-6 and TNF-α mRNAs, all of which were suppressed by inhibiting iPLA2β activity or expression with bromoenol lactone, antisense oligonucleotides, and genetic deletion, respectively. Similar suppression also results from genetic deletion of 12/15-lipoxygenase or inhibiting its activity with nordihydroguaiaretic acid or luteolin. Expression of iPLA2β protein in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells was found to depend on the phenotypic state and to rise upon incubation with TNF-α. Our studies thus illustrate that smooth muscle cell-specific iPLA2β participates in the initiation and early progression of vascular inflammation and neointima formation and suggest that iPLA2β may represent a novel therapeutic target for preventing cardiovascular diseases. Background: The role of iPLA2β as a regulator of inflammatory signaling and neointima formation is unknown. Results: Smooth muscle-specific expression of iPLA2β exacerbates proinflammatory cytokine production, macrophage infiltration, and neointima formation. Conclusion: Smooth muscle-specific iPLA2β participates in the initiation and early progression of vascular inflammation and neointima formation. Significance: iPLA2β may represent a novel therapeutic target for attenuating vascular inflammation and restenosis.
Sucrose—proton efflux from maize scutellum cells

Abstract Sucrose—proton efflux was studied using maize scutellum slices treated with mannose, an energy poison in maize scutellum cells. High rates of sucrose
SU-E-I-35: A GPU Optimized DRR Algorithm

Purpose: To develop and evaluate a new DRR algorithm on GPU and compare it's accuracy and efficiency to two other commonly used DRR algorithms. Methods: We developed a new fixed grid algorithm optimized for GPU. This new algorithm first rotates and re‐samples CT data layer by layer and then traces rays through voxel slabs perpendicular to the projection axis. We also implemented the fixed stride algorithm and Siddon's incremental algorithm on GPU. We compared the accuracy of each algorithm to a ground truth that was generated by sampling 1024 evenly spaced ray paths per pixel using Siddon's incremental algorithm. We then computed the relative error for 36 equally spaced projections in a full rotation about the SI axis for 5 different voxel resolutions (ranging from 512 to 32 cubed). We compared the efficiency of each algorithm by simulating 360 projections, one per degree, of a clinically sized phantom (512×512×128) in a full rotation about the SI axis. Both tests simulated common CBCT geometry with a 40.0×30.0 cm, 1024×768 pixel detector. XCAT phantoms were used in all tests. Results: We found that all three DRR algorithms attain small error as a function of decreasing voxel size ranging from 10% at 16.0 mm/voxel to less than 0.2% at 1.0 mm/voxel. We also found the average projection time for the fixed grid algorithm is 21.8 ms/projection, 40% faster than Siddon's incremental algorithm which had an average projection time of 36.5 ms. The fixed stride algorithm is 18% faster than Siddon's incremental algorithm with an average projection time of 28.7 ms. Conclusion: By specifically designing a DRR algorithm for GPU, we were able to improve the computation efficiency without losing accuracy. This work will be useful for computational tasks requiring frequent rendering of DRR projections.
Essential Program Components for Perinatal Home Care

Home care will continue to be a rapidly expanding area of health care. This growth will be evident in the perinatal nursing specialty. There are multiple models for delivery of perinatal home services. In each case, consideration needs to be given to licensing and other standards; to operational areas such as staffing, supplies, equipment, and reimbursement; and to quality issues, such as staff development, internal and external customer service, and a continuous quality improvement program. Successful marketing of the services requires recognition that the product is nursing care.
Solution growth of barium metaborate crystals by top seeding

Abstract Single crystals of β-BaB 2 O 4 have been grown from Na 2 O solutions using the top seeded solution growth method. Crystals were grown under high and low thermal gradient conditions. High thermal gradients allowed faster growth rates and reduced the density of inclusions which are a persistent problem with solution-grown β-BaB 2 O 4 . Crystals grown along the y-axis were found to fracture along the basal cleavage planes during cooling, but otherwise yielded useful crystal dimensions and good optical quality material. Inclusions usually contained the solvent phase but voids have also been observed. Interface breakdown resulting from constitutional supercooling is thought to be related to the restricted mass transport in these high viscosity solutions.
The role of computed tomography in the evaluation of Caroli's disease

Two patients with Caroli's disease are reported who did not have renal abnormalities or hepatic fibrosis. Extra hepatic complications of Caroli's disease in these two patients were best evaluated by computed tomography (CT). Although ultrasound evaluates the ductal abnormalities of Caroli's disease well, it does not delineate subphrenic or subhepatic abscesses, pancreatitis, pancreatic phlegmon, or pseudocysts as well CT.
Recurrent poisonings among paediatric poisoning victims.

A study of 1943 potentially toxic ingestions occurring in children under 6 years of age was conducted by 3 geographically and demographically diverse poison centres to determine the incidence of exposures to poison. Of the total group, 30.1% indicated that the child had experienced a prior poison exposure (12.0% in children under 1 year of age, and 41.3% of children between the ages of 3 and 5 years). Most repeaters (68.9%) experienced only 1 prior ingestion (range 1 to 15). Two prior ingestions were reported in 17.6% of repeaters; 3 prior ingestions in 4.4%. A profound effect of age on type of substance ingested was observed, with drugs accounting for 11.0% of ingestions in children under the age of 1 year, 23.2% in 1- year-olds, and 49.9% in 2- to 5-year-olds. A corresponding age-related decline in ingestions of household and personal care products was also noted. Although less marked than the age effect, a statistically significant propensity to reingest similar types of poisons was observed. Among repeaters, those with a prior ingestion of a drug subsequently ingested another drug 1.49 times more frequently than expected. A similar trend was observed with products (1.24 times more frequently) and plants (2.00 times more frequently).
Antimutagenicity of green tea polyphenols in the liver of transgenic medaka

We examined the ability of a mixture of the predominant green tea polyphenolic compounds (GTP) to reduce benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P)-induced mutations in the cII gene of the λ transgenic medaka. Fish were treated with 50 ppb B[a]P for 24 hr, followed by exposure to 2 ppm or 10 ppm GTP for 28 days. cII mutations in livers of fish exposed to B[a]P were increased significantly, 2.6-fold above controls. In contrast, the addition of GTP significantly reduced the frequency of cII mutants by 84%, comparable to that of controls. The frequencies of mutations at G:C basepairs, mutations that are highly characteristic of B[a]P exposure, were elevated significantly in treated fish. By comparison, B[a]P-exposed fish also treated with GTP showed reductions in these mutations, demonstrating a protective effect of GTP against B[a]P-induced mutagenesis. The antioxidant mechanism of GTP possibly played an important role in the reduction of B[a]P mutagenicity. These results corroborate findings from rodent models, showing that the protective effects of green tea extend to different species, and suggesting that similar mechanisms of B[a]P mutagenesis and GTP antimutagenesis are shared among the models. These studies illustrate the utility of λ transgenic medaka for in vivo mutation analyses and suggest that this fish may be a valuable model in chemoprevention studies. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2005. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
More than location: crafting a US policy for the Black Sea region

This article is a survey of key foreign policy issues in the Black Sea Region (BSR) which will confront the next United States (US) administration. The article argues that interrelated issues of security, energy and political development make the region a critical, but often overlooked, area for US policymakers. Increasing regional integration, and encouraging pro‐Western and democratic political development is key to resolving the security issues and unleashing the economic potential of the region. However, this is a difficult task given the political, historical and cultural diversity of the region, ongoing ‘frozen conflicts’, and the newly empowered Russian Federation.
Bicyclic Thiadiazoles I: 2-(2-Thienyl)-5-phenylthiazolo[2,3-b]-1,3,4-thiadiazole

2-(2-Thienyl)-5-phenylthiazolo[2,3-b]-1,3,4-thiadiazole was synthesized and evaluated for its diuretic action. The effect of 2-substitution on the ease of cyclization to a bicyclic system was studied. The carboxylic acid hydrazides were converted to dithio-carbazates which, on cyclization, gave 2-substituted 5-thio-1,3,4-thiadiazoles. Thiothiadiazoles were converted to the bicyclic system by the action of phenacyl bromide.
Erratum to: Cover essay

Erratum to: J Neurodevelop Disord DOI 10.1007/s11689-010-9042-7 The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake. Joseph Piven, not Fredda Monroe, wrote the cover issue text of Volume 2, Issue 1 dated March 2010.
Formation of nanoemulsions stabilized by model food-grade emulsifiers using high-pressure homogenization: Factors affecting particle size

Abstract Nanoemulsions are finding increasing utilization in the food and beverage industries for certain applications because of their unique physicochemical and functional properties: high encapsulation efficiency; low turbidity; high bioavailability; high physical stability. In this study, we examined the impact of system composition and homogenization conditions on the formation of nanoemulsions using a high-pressure homogenizer (microfluidizer). The mean particle diameter decreased with increasing homogenization pressure and number of passes, with a linear log–log relationship between mean particle diameter and homogenization pressure. The minimum droplet diameter that could be produced after 6 passes at 14 kbar depended strongly on emulsifier type and concentration: SDS
Geomicrobial Kinetics: Extrapolating Laboratory Studies to Natural Environments

Predicting metabolic rates and population sizes of microorganisms in natural environments is a central problem in geomicrobiology. Such predictions can be made on the basis of a thermodynamically consistent rate law that accounts for both kinetic and thermodynamic controls on microbial metabolism. Application of the rate law requires kinetic and growth parameters, the values of which have been determined for pure and mixed cultures growing in laboratory reactors. However, not all parameter values derived from laboratory studies can be validly applied to the environment. This article illustrates a best-choice approach for extrapolating experimentally-derived parameter values to natural environments, using microbial sulfate reduction coupled to acetate oxidation as an example. We compiled kinetic and growth parameters determined by previous laboratory studies and evaluated their applicability to natural environments. Our results suggest that some parameters, such as rate constants and maximum growth yields,...
Upper Rib Fractures and Mediastinal Widening: Indications for Aortography

Abstract Survival of patients with posttraumatic thoracic aortic rupture depends on early diagnosis. It is frequently stated that fracture of the first or second ribs and mediastinal widening are findings suggestive of thoracic aortic rupture. We found that the probability of sustaining thoracic aortic rupture is the same for patients with upper rib fractures as for those with other rib fractures (1/64 versus 5/149; p = 0.85). Also, our data fail to show a statistical difference in the incidence of thoracic aortic rupture associated with upper (first and second) rib fractures compared with no rib fracture at all (1/64 versus 9/304; p = 0.85). Thus, patients with thoracic aortic rupture are not more likely to have rib fractures (7/21 versus 14/21; p = 0.15), and if a rib fracture is present, the probability of it being at the upper level is the same as that for a fracture at any other level (1/7 versus 6/7; p = 0.06). Ratios of mediastinal width to chest width were used as a measure of mediastinal widening, and were found to be an accurate predictor of thoracic aortic rupture. Ratios greater than 0.28 at the aortic knob were 100% specific and 85% sensitive for this condition.
Electron microscopy of vascular obstructions in citrus roots affected with young tree decline

Abstract Transmission and scanning electron microscopy of vascular obstructions in xylem vessels of citrus roots affected with Young Tree Decline showed that the plug material consists of filaments varying in diameter from 250 to 500 nm that appear to branch and that consist of electron-dense and electron-transparent layers. The plug material appears to originate at two specific sites; pits in the vessel walls, and perforation rims at the junctions of vessel elements. At these sites the presence of plug material is associated with the apparent disintegration and swelling of the primary wall and/or middle lamella. Serial sectioning of vascular obstructions revealed no ultrastructure like that of fungal hyphae, actinomycetes, mycoplasmas or bacteria.
The Arg-62 Residues of the TREX1 Exonuclease Act Across the Dimer Interface Contributing to Catalysis in the Opposing Protomers

TREX1 is a 3'-deoxyribonuclease that degrades single- and double-stranded DNA (ssDNA and dsDNA) to prevent inappropriate nucleic acid-mediated immune activation. More than 40 different disease-causing TREX1 mutations have been identified exhibiting dominant and recessive genetic phenotypes in a spectrum of autoimmune disorders. Mutations in TREX1 at positions Asp-18 and Asp-200 to His and Asn exhibit dominant autoimmune phenotypes associated with the clinical disorders familial chilblain lupus and Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome. Our previous biochemical studies showed that the TREX1 dominant autoimmune disease phenotype depends upon an intact DNA-binding process coupled with dysfunctional active site chemistry. Studies here show that the TREX1 Arg-62 residues extend across the dimer interface into the active site of the opposing protomer to coordinate substrate DNA and to affect catalysis in the opposing protomer. The TREX1(R62A/R62A) homodimer exhibits ∼50-fold reduced ssDNA and dsDNA degradation activities relative to TREX1(WT). The TREX1 D18H, D18N, D200H, and D200N dominant mutant enzymes were prepared as compound heterodimers with the TREX1 R62A substitution in the opposing protomer. The TREX1(D18H/R62A), TREX1(D18N/R62A), TREX1(D200H/R62A), and TREX1(D200N/R62A) compound heterodimers exhibit higher levels of ss- and dsDNA degradation activities than the homodimers demonstrating the requirement for TREX1 Arg-62 residues to provide necessary structural elements for full catalytic activity in the opposing TREX1 protomer. This concept is further supported by the loss of dominant negative effects in the TREX1 D18H, D18N, D200H, and D200N compound heterodimers. These data provide compelling evidence for the required TREX1 dimeric structure for full catalytic function.
TESTIS TUMORS: REVIEW OF 125 CASES AT THE CLEVELAND CLINIC

One hundred twenty-five cases of testicular tumor are reviewed. The prognostic significance of clinical features, certain laboratory test results, and histologic type are evaluated, and treatment results are presented. The most important prognostic clinical feature is the presence or absence of clinically evident metastases. The urinary gonadotropin levels are useful prognostically, but the intravenous pyelogram and lymphangiogram are statistically unreliable. The presence of tumor in retroperitoneal lymph nodes influenced survival only in the patients with embryonal carcinoma. Tumor type influenced survival more than any other pathologic factor. Vascular invasion, local extension, and Leydig cell hyperplasia did not correlate with tumor behavior in germinal neoplasms. Patients with clinical Stage IA or IB teratocarcinoma had an 85 per cent survival rate with a wide variety of treatment.
Aqueous red-emitting silicon nanoparticles for cellular imaging: Consequences of protecting against surface passivation by hydroxide and water for stable red emission

Stable, aqueous, red-to-near infrared emission is critical for the use of silicon nanoparticles (Si NPs) in biological fluorescence assays, but such Si NPs have been difficult to attain. We report a synthesis and surface modification strategy that protects Si NPs and preserves red photoluminescence (PL) in water for more than 6 mo. The Si NPs were synthesized via high temperature reaction, liberated from an oxide matrix, and functionalized via hydrosilylation to yield hydrophobic particles. The hydrophobic Si NPs were phase transferred to water using the surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) with retention of red PL. CTAB apparently serves a double role in providing stable, aqueous, red-emitting Si NPs by (i) forming a hydrophobic barrier between the Si NPs and water and (ii) providing aqueous colloidal stability via the polar head group. We demonstrate preservation of the aqueous red emission of these Si NPs in biological media and examine the effects of pH on emission color.
Motivational Interviewing and Social Work Practice

• Summary: Motivational interviewing was proposed as an alternative model to direct persuasion for facilitating behavior change. Social work behavior change interventions have traditionally focused on increasing skills and reducing barriers. More recent recommendations tend to encourage practitioners to explore a broad range of issues, including but not limited to skills and barriers. The article defines and explains motivational interviewing by presenting its essential spirit and techniques, and provides a brief case example within a domestic violence context.• Findings: This article proposes motivational interviewing as an intervention appropriate for social work practice concerned with behavior change by arguing that motivational interviewing is an exciting intervention model for numerous social work settings due to its consistency with core social work values, ethics, resources, and evidence-based practice.• Applications: Social workers may strive to practice and test motivational interviewing in addi...
Are pregnant women happier? Racial and ethnic differences in the relationship between pregnancy and life satisfaction in the United States

This paper examines the relationship between pregnancy and life satisfaction for US women of childbearing age using a large sample from the 2005 to 2009 waves of the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. The results show strong differences by race and ethnicity. Pregnancy has a significant positive correlation with happiness for Whites and Hispanics, but no relationship for Blacks. This differential in the marginal effect of pregnancy is in addition to a general decrease in satisfaction for Black women, independent of being pregnant. The results cannot be explained by differences in other demographics such age, income, education, or physical health status. Within each racial/ethnic group, the results are consistent across different categories for all these characteristics. Racial and ethnic differences in the effects of pregnancy on support from others can partly explain this result. For Whites and Hispanic women, pregnancy increases their feelings of social and emotional support from others, while pregnant Black women report lower levels of social and emotional support than non-pregnant Black women.
Early clinical results: SOUNDTEC implantable hearing device phase II study.

Objective: To assess the safety and efficacy of a new semi-implantable electromagnetic hearing device, the SOUNDTEC Direct Drive Hearing System (DDHS), and to compare its performance with that of subjects' previously worn, optimally fit hearing aids. Preliminary results for the first 10 subjects are presented. Study Designs: The protocol specified in the Investigational Device Exemption is used in this ongoing FDA phase II 100-subject multicenter clinical trial. Methods: For baseline, each subject is tested wearing his or her own optimally fit hearing aid in the ear to be implanted. Six-month postoperative outcome measures using the SOUNDTEC DDHS are compared with the baseline. Multiple objective and subjective outcomes (as listed under Results) were measured. Results: When compared with the subjects' optimally fit hearing aids, the SOUNDTEC DDHS provided an average improvement of 52% in functional gain (250-6000 Hz), 22% in aided thresholds, 3.8% for speech discrimination in quiet, 17% for speech in noise, 13.1% in articulation index scores, 28% in aided benefit, 27.3% in sound quality of speech, and a 16.7% increase in overall subject satisfaction. In addition, with the SOUNDTEC DDHS, subjects reported absence of acoustic feedback, little or no occlusive effects, and more natural sound perception. Conclusion: Analysis of data on the first 10 subjects using the SOUNDTEC DDHS indicates positive outcomes regarding safety and efficacy, although the small sample size is not sufficient to permit valid statistical inferences to be drawn from our preliminary data. Results also demonstrate improvement in performance compared with the subjects' optimally fit hearing aids and an improvement in quality of life as demonstrated by objective and subjective tests and measures.
Axonal degeneration in the sural nerves of cancer patients.

Peripheral nerve alteration associated with non-metastatic carcinomatous neuropathy was studied in sural nerves of 13 cancer patients and compared with 5 autopsy control nerves. Quantitative histometric analyses of the myelinated nerve fiber populations revealed a pattern of change in the sural nerves of cancer patients which was characterized by fibers undergoing acute axonal degeneration associated with either a loss of myelinated fibers or a relative increase of small myelinated fibers. This prevalence of small myelinated fibers could result from a selective destruction of large myelinated fibers and/or the presence of small regenerated myelinated fibers. The severity of sural nerve changes roughly correlated with the degree of peripheral neuropathy, but similar nerve alterations could be found in subjects with minimal or no clinical dysfunction and before the recognition of malignant disease. Thus, axonal alterations of the primary sensory neurons may appear with malignant transformation of tissues; their detection in sural nerve biopsies may be useful in facilitating the early diagnosis of cancer.
Dilepton gauge bosons: Present status and future prospects.

Dilepton gauge bosons which appear in a class of unified models are studied both from the point of view of existing data and of future experiments. Present data allow masses only above 120 GeV. Future experiments in ${e}^{+}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ scattering can improve this bound to 600 GeV (CERN ${e}^{+}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ collider LEP II with $\sqrt{s}=200$ GeV) and to 1500 GeV (Next Linear Collider ${e}^{+}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ with $\sqrt{s}=500$ GeV). The process ${e}^{+}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\ensuremath{\mu}}^{\ensuremath{-}}{\ensuremath{\mu}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ could provide an excellent signature for the existence of dilepton gauge bosons in an ${e}^{\ensuremath{-}}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ collider, even for $\sqrt{s}=100$ GeV.
Economic Costs of Serious Illness in Rural Southwest China : Household Coping Strategies and Health Policy Implications

Today, some 10 million Chinese peasants fall below China's official poverty line annually because of illness. Currently, more than 80 percent of China's rural residents do not have any health insurance, and most of those who do still have to pay up to 90 percent of their medical costs. Despite the grave situation, very little is known about the strategies rural Chinese utilize to cope with the economic costs of illness. In this paper, I examine how households in a rural village in Southwest China contend with economic impacts of serious illness, and I discuss how development agencies can help to alleviate the situation. I first describe the study site and my research methods. Next, drawing on qualitative and quantitative data, I analyze 10 strategies rural households use to cope with the economic costs of serious illness. In the last section, I discuss the implications of this case study for health policy makers and development agencies in China and elsewhere in the developing world.
Molecular Stiffness of Selectins

During inflammation, selectin-ligand interactions provide forces for circulating leukocytes to adhere to vascular surfaces, which stretch the interacting molecules, suggesting that mechanical properties may be pertinent to their biological function. From mechanical measurements with atomic force microscopy, we analyzed the molecular characteristics of selectins complexed with ligands and antibodies. Respective stiffness of L-, E-, and P-selectins (4.2, 1.4, and 0.85 piconewton/nm) correlated inversely with the number (2, 6, and 9) of consensus repeats in the selectin structures that acted as springs in series to dominate their compliance. After reconstitution into a lipid bilayer, purified membrane P-selectin remained a dimer, capable of forming dimeric bonds with P-selectin glycoprotein ligand (PSGL)-1, endoglycan-Ig, and a dimeric form of a glycosulfopeptide modeled after the N terminus of PSGL-1. By comparison, purified membrane L- and E-selectin formed only monomeric bonds under identical conditions. Ligands and antibodies were much less stretchable than selectins. The length of endoglycan-Ig was found to be 51 ± 12 nm. These results provide a comprehensive characterization of the molecular stiffness of selectins and illustrate how mechanical measurements can be utilized for molecular analysis, e.g. evaluating the multimericity of selectins and determining the molecular length of endoglycan.