cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Determinants of and Barriers to Hormonal and Surgical Treatment Receipt Among Transgender People.

Abstract Purpose: Medical gender confirmation therapy (GCT) plays an important role in transgender health; however, its prevalence and determinants constitute an area of uncertainty. Methods: Data for this cross-sectional study were obtained from an online survey distributed from October 2012 through the end of 2013 among persons who visited the social media sites of a transgender education and social networking meeting. Eligible respondents (n=280) were persons whose gender identity was different from their sex assigned at birth and who responded to questions about previously received or planned hormonal therapy (HT), chest reconstruction, or genital surgery. Multivariable logistic regression models examined how receipt and plans to receive different GCT types were associated with participants' characteristics and gender identity. Results: The respective percentages of ever and current HT were 58% and 47% for transwomen and 63% and 57% for transmen. Genital surgery was reported by 11 participants; all tr...
Positron Emission Tomographic Studies of Syntactic Processing

Publisher Summary This chapter explores positron emission tomography (PET), which investigates the neural basis for processing the relative clauses. All studies reported in the chapter use the plausibility judgment task. In this task, the subject either reads or listens to a sentence. Then a speedy decision is made as to whether it was plausible (made sense) or not. In the activation condition, sentences that are syntactically more complex are presented. In the baseline condition, sentences that are less complex are presented. In all experiments, implausible sentences are rendered implausible by virtue of an incompatibility between the animacy or humanness features of a noun phrase and the requirements of a verb. PET data are acquired on a General Electric Scanditronix PC4096 15 slice whole body tomography in its stationary mode in contiguous slices with center-to-center distance of 6.5 mm (axial field equal to 97.5 mm) and axial resolution of 6.0 mm FWHM, with a Hanning-weighted reconstruction filter set to yield 8.0 mm in plane spatial resolution. The results of these studies reveal localized increases in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in a variety of locations when subjects made judgments about the plausibility of syntactically complex sentences.
Constructing Small Generating Sets for the Multiplicative Groups of Algebras over Finite Fields

We consider computational problems concerning algebras over finite fields. In particular, we propose an algorithm for finding a small generating set for the multiplicative group of GF(p)[x]/F, where p is a prime number and F in GF(p)[x] is an arbitrary polynomial. Based on this result, a new set of expander graphs can be explicitly constructed. In addition, we present algorithms for basis construction and decomposition of a given element with respect to the basis.
Continuum Metrics for Atomistic Simulation Analysis

Atomistic modeling and simulations have become an invaluable tool for both the Materials Science and Mechanics communities to study and understand the nanoscale structure–property relationships in materials. Many of these studies focus specifically on the nanomechanics and fundamental deformation mechanisms that influence materials properties. However, the usefulness and impact of these simulations to influence the scientific community and materials design are ultimately hinged on the information extracted from the model or simulation. As such, a new and emerging focus in the atomistic modeling community is to develop more innovative avenues to produce more meaningful data. It is this goal that motivates the current chapter. This chapter presents an overview of a novel toolset for atomistic modeling and simulations to more effectively quantify the fundamental kinematics of atomistic structures. These new metrics are based on well-established theory from continuum mechanics, but provide unique insight into atomic-level processes that underly the nanomechanics of materials.
Ge p-i-n detectors on Si for high power density applications

There is a need for high power, high current, high speed photodetectors, for efficient, high gain RF photonic links, which can operate with 1–5W RF power in the DC to 20 GHz range. This need is currently being met by state-of-art InGaAs photodetectors [1], but there are several material-dependent limitations. It is well known that InGaAs is a very poor thermal conductor. As observed in Fig. 1, based strictly on thermal considerations since Ge is a 9.5× better thermal conductor than InGaAs, Ge p-i-n detectors should be able to operate at 2× the RF power, especially at high frequencies. Not as well known is the effect of impact ionization as a limiting nonlinear mechanism for these photodetectors [2,3]. Fig. 2 compares the ionization coefficients of InGaAs and Ge. In the low field regime (5V/μm–10V/μm), which is the typical operating range for p-i-n diodes, the electron ionization coefficient of InGaAs is more than an order of magnitude greater than that of Ge. The voltage dependent responsivity of the InGaAs detector results in increased 2nd and 3rd order harmonic distortion. It has been calculated that there should be 100× less 2nd order harmonic distortion, Fig. 3, and 1000× less 3rd order harmonic distortion with a Ge photodetector. This allows the Ge detector to be used in a broad-band receiver to detect weak signals without being affected by harmonic distortion (spurs) from stronger signals. Heterogeneous integration with Si permits backside illumination, which is the optimum configuration for thermal control allowing the use of front-side heatsinks. In addition, there are the advantages of inexpensive, large Si substrates, compatibility with the multi-B$ Si industry, and potential monolithic integration with Si circuits.
Will You Buy a Surprise? Gender Differences in the Purchase of Surprise Offerings

In the present paper, we conceptualize and investigate customers’ preference for and responses to surprise offerings – products and services for which one or more core attributes are uncertain and unknown to the buyer at the time of purchase. We propose that an important motivation that influences choices between a surprise and a certain offering is the desire for agency over the purchase outcome, revealed by choosing a high in certainty alternative. Using gender as a proxy for chronic agentic orientation, we find that men (who have higher agentic proclivities) are less likely to opt for a surprise offering and do not respond as positively to the experience of such an offering as women (who have lower agentic proclivities) do. We examine data from two companies (car rental and travel services), an online product catalog, and several field and lab studies, thus providing robust evidence of the framework across multiple product categories and participant populations. Importantly, we conclude with a managerial roadmap that delineates the ways in which marketers can offer surprise offerings more fruitfully.
Running on empty: high self-esteem as a risk factor for exercise addiction

AbstractBackground: Few studies have examined the theorized predictors of exercise addiction. Furthermore, research on exercise addiction has paid little to no attention to an individual’s social and cultural context. Using objectification theory, the present study examined (a) body shame as a positive predictor of exercise addiction, (b) self-esteem as a negative predictor of exercise addiction, and (c) self-esteem as a mediator of the positive relation between body shame and exercise addiction among college student women.Method: Participants were 322 undergraduate women at a large university in the Northeast.Results: Results corroborate body shame as a significant positive predictor of exercise addiction; however, contrary to hypotheses, self-esteem emerged as a positive predictor of exercise addiction when controlling for body shame. Finally, the test of the mediation model revealed self-esteem was partially mediating the relation between body shame and exercise addiction, indicating competitive mediat...
Determination of irritant threshold concentrations of multiple tree, grass, weed and mould allergens for intradermal testing of horses residing in the southern USA

Background Appropriate allergen threshold concentrations (TCs) for intradermal testing (IDT) have not been established in horses for many pollen and mould allergens. Objectives To determine the TCs in non-allergic horses and describe the frequency of late phase reactions for 26 allergens, including trees, grasses, weeds and moulds in horses residing in the southern Unites States. Animals Twenty four clinically normal horses in the southern United States. Methods Threshold concentrations for different allergens were determined using IDT subjective measurements at 30 minutes. Delayed reactions were evaluated at 4 and 24 h. Results Threshold concentrations (all PNU/mL) were established for eight tree allergens (black willow 1,000, box elder 1,000, live oak 1,000, pecan 2,000, white ash 4,000, red oak 4,000, red mulberry 2,000 and green ash 2,000); two grass allergens (Johnson grass 250 PNU/mL and Kentucky blue grass 500 PNU/mL); two weeds (carelessweed 1,000 PNU/mL, great ragweed 500 PNU/mL) and one mould (Curvularia 8,000 PNU/mL). The TC was not determined due to excessive reactivity at the lowest concentration tested (1,000 PNU/mL) for bahia and perennial rye grass. Eleven other allergens did not meet the criteria to establish a TC when evaluated at 30 min due to lack of positive reactions. Multiple allergens caused positive reactions in ≥10% of horses at 4 h. Reactions at 24 h were rare with the exception of one horse. Conclusions and clinical importance This study identified intradermal TC for multiple pollen and mould allergens in horses. These values may prove useful for optimizing allergen concentrations for IDT of allergic horses.
Infiltrative Astrocytomas (Diffuse Astrocytoma, Anaplastic Astrocytoma, Glioblastoma)

Infiltrative astrocytomas represent a diverse group of glial tumors of variable degree of malignancy that share in common the qualities of astrocytic differentiation and an inherent ability to diffusely invade central nervous system (CNS) parenchyma.
Where Have All the Children Gone?: The Archaeology of Childhood

Current images portray childhood as primarily a time of play and learning, de-emphasizing children's economic contributions and relegating them, like women, to the less-visible realm of the home. Ethnographic and historic literature amply demonstrates that age categories are constructs and, thus, exhibit considerable temporal and cross-cultural variability. Nevertheless, archaeologists have tended to ignore prehistoric children, perhaps viewing them as only peripheral to central research concerns, or to treat them stereotypically. The archaeological record provides opportunities for the exploration of numerous aspects of childhood and archaeologists are encouraged to respond to the challenge.
The contribution of the left anterior ventrolateral temporal lobe to the retrieval of personal semantics.

Abstract Autobiographical facts and personal trait knowledge are conceptualized as distinct types of personal semantics, but the cognitive and neural mechanisms that separate them remain underspecified. One distinction may be their level of specificity, with autobiographical facts reflecting idiosyncratic conceptual knowledge and personal traits representing basic level category knowledge about the self. Given the critical role of the left anterior ventrolateral temporal lobe (AVTL) in the storage and retrieval of semantic information about unique entities, we hypothesized that knowledge of autobiographical facts may depend on the integrity of this region to a greater extent than personal traits. To provide neuropsychological evidence relevant to this issue, we investigated personal semantics, semantic knowledge of non-personal unique entities, and episodic memory in two individuals with well-defined left (MK) versus right (DW) AVTL lesions. Relative to controls, MK demonstrated preserved personal trait knowledge but impaired “experience-far” (i.e., spatiotemporal independent) autobiographical fact knowledge, semantic memory for non-personal unique entities, and episodic memory. In contrast, both experience-far autobiographical facts and personal traits were spared in DW, whereas episodic memory and aspects of semantic memory for non-personal unique entities were impaired. These findings support the notion that autobiographical facts and personal traits have distinct cognitive features and neural mechanisms. They also suggest a common organizing principle for personal and non-personal semantics, namely the specificity of such knowledge to an entity, which is reflected in the contribution of the left AVTL to retrieval.
Ungovernable life: mandatory medicine and statecraft in Iraq, by Omar Dewachi, Stanford, California, Stanford University Press, 2017, 239 pp., $85 (hardback), ISBN 9780804784443, $24.95 (paperback), ISBN: 9780804784450, Digital ISBN: 9781503602694

I was trained in Baghdad as a physician at the same time as the author of this book, and I served in Iraqi hospitals and health facilities for 13 years after completing my training.I compliment Dr ...
Formalin preservation of avian blood for organochlorine analysis

Blood biopsy for chemical analysis is a valuable technique for evaluating chemical exposure of birds in the wild without harming the birds. Field conditions, however, often make sample storage difficult. Better methods than freezing are needed to improve the interpretive value of chemical analysis of the sample. The use of formalin was explored for this purpose. A pooled sample of blood containing naturally incorporated 1,1-bis-(p-chlorophenyl)-2,2,2-trichloroethane (DDT), 2,2-bis-(p-chlorophenyl)-1,1 dichloroethylene (DDE). and dieldrin was subdivided into 30 samples, of which 10 were frozen, 10 more were kept at room temperature, and 10 were formalinized by adding 1 part of chemically pure formalin to 20 parts of blood. The formalinized samples yielded the highest and least variable concentrations of chemicals. The field procedures are outlined.
Age trajectories of musculoskeletal morbidities in adults with cerebral palsy

Abstract Background Individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) are at an increased risk for age-related morbidities due to functional impairments, maladapted growth, and altered body composition. While musculoskeletal (MSK) deficits are present in children, little is understood about MSK morbidity throughout the lifespan in those with CP. The purpose of this study was to examine the age-related trajectories of MSK morbidity and multimorbidity throughout adulthood in those with CP. Methods A clinic-based sample of adults with CP (n = 1395; ≥18 years) was examined to determine prevalence of MSK morbidities at the University of Michigan Medical Center. Logistic regression was used to determine the effects of age on individual MSK morbidities and multimorbidity (i.e., ≥2 morbidities) after adjusting for sex, race, weight, and smoking. Results With the 18–30 year age group as the reference, the adjusted odds of osteopenia was lower in the 41–50 and >50 year age groups, the odds of osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis was higher in 41–50 and >50 year age groups, and the odds of osteoarthritis was higher in 31–40, 41–50, and >50 year age groups. The adjusted odds of MSK multimorbidity increased substantially with increasing age for 31–40 year olds (OR: 1.919; 95% CI 1.05–3.52), 41–50 year olds (OR: 4.30; 95% CI 2.40–7.69), and >50 year olds (OR: 6.05; 95% CI 3.56–10.27). Conclusions Adults with CP are at high risk for MSK morbidities across all ages. Future studies are needed to examine the global aging trajectories of MSK health among adults with CP. Study findings highlight the importance of maximizing MSK accretion, and developing programs to assist individuals with CP and their caregivers to maintain MSK mass and function throughout the lifespan.
Obesity and acute-on-chronic liver failure.

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) and obesity are two topics that have garnered considerable interest within the hepatology community over recent years. The syndrome of ACLF occurs in patients with cirrhosis and is characterized by the development of acute hepatic decompensation, organ failure and a high rate of 28-day mortality (1).
Answer to September 2019 Photo Quiz.

Answer: Crusted scabies. This patient had crusted scabies (CS). CS is caused by hyperinfestation by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. CS was scientifically described in 1848 by Norwegian physicians Daniel Danielssen and Carl Boeck, who believed it to be a form of leprosy ([1][1]). It was described again
Improving State-Mandated Breast Density Notifications.

Abstract Purpose Effective written communication directly affects health care outcomes. Since 2016, the complex language of state-mandated breast density notifications (BDNs) has been challenged, because it is perceived to be beyond the comprehension of most patients. The aim of this study was to assess whether a revised BDN written at a lower reading grade level improves understanding compared with the current state-mandated BDN. Methods A revised notification with similar content to the current state-mandated BDN was developed. Both notifications were presented to patients for direct comparison, using a paper survey asking questions that evaluated patients’ perceptions and convictions associated with breast density. Surveys were distributed at four outpatient imaging centers to screening mammography patients. Results The current BDN’s mean readability metric was 13.4, and that of the revised BDN was 6.6. Five hundred surveys were analyzed. Survey data demonstrated that 56.6% of all women perceived that dense breast tissue results indicated a “high” associated lifetime breast cancer risk from the current state-mandated BDN compared with only 2.2% with the revised notification (P Conclusions A significant portion of women misinterpret the intended messages of the current state-mandated BDN. Thus, a revised notification at a lower reading grade level may improve understanding of breast density, leading to improved individualized breast cancer screening for women with dense breasts.
Elder abuse in American Indian communities: an integrative review

Background American Indian elders have one of the lowest life expectancies in the United States. Disproportionate disease burden, socioeconomic disparities, and higher rates of violence across the lifespan are thought to contribute to higher rates of elder abuse. Elder abuse and higher rates of trauma exposure are linked with adverse outcomes. Methods The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines informed the methodology and assessment of the literature on elder abuse among American Indians. Results Of the nine studies published in the last 30 years, rates of elder abuse varied by study, location, and tribal affiliation from 4.3% to 45.9%. Large studies with comparison populations found higher rates for American Indians. There was a consensus for three risk factors: substance abuse, mental health problems, and caregiving issues. Importance of tribal norms, the notion of respect conferred to elders, and the concept of acculturation were major culturally relevant themes. Perceived tribal norms and strengths, for example, respect for elders, were at odds with abuse experiences, particularly financial exploitation and neglect. Historical trauma, shame, and fear impacted reporting. There was little consistency in study designs, most were qualitative or mixed methods, samples were small, there was no common measurement tool or time frame for abuse, and there was only one intervention study. Implications High rates of abuse suggest healthcare providers should be encouraged to screen and intervene despite the lack of empirical evidence. Providers should not assume that traditional culturally ascribed strengths, such as honor and respect for elders, provide any degree of protection against elder abuse.
Crystal structures of p120RasGAP N-terminal SH2 domain in its apo form and in complex with a p190RhoGAP phosphotyrosine peptide

The Rho and Ras pathways play vital roles in cell growth, division and motility. Cross-talk between the pathways amplifies their roles in cell proliferation and motility and its dysregulation is involved in disease pathogenesis. One important interaction for cross-talk occurs between p120RasGAP (RASA1), a GTPase activating protein (GAP) for Ras, and p190RhoGAP (p190RhoGAP-A, ARHGAP35), a GAP for Rho. The binding of these proteins is primarily mediated by two SH2 domains within p120RasGAP engaging phosphorylated tyrosines of p190RhoGAP, of which the best studied is pTyr-1105. To better understand the interaction between p120RasGAP and p190RhoGAP, we determined the 1.75 A X-ray crystal structure of the N-terminal SH2 domain of p120RasGAP in the unliganded form, and its 1.6 A co-crystal structure in complex with a synthesized phosphotyrosine peptide, EEENI(p-Tyr)SVPHDST, corresponding to residues 1100–1112 of p190RhoGAP. We find that the N-terminal SH2 domain of p120RhoGAP has the characteristic SH2 fold encompassing a central beta-sheet flanked by two alpha-helices, and that peptide binding stabilizes specific conformations of the βE-βF loop and arginine residues R212 and R231. Site-directed mutagenesis and native gel shifts confirm phosphotyrosine binding through the conserved FLVR motif arginine residue R207, and isothermal titration calorimetry finds a dissociation constant of 0.3 ± 0.1 μM between the phosphopeptide and SH2 domain. These results demonstrate that the major interaction between two important GAP proteins, p120RasGAP and p190RhoGAP, is mediated by a canonical SH2-pTyr interaction.
Development of Hearing Technology with Personalized Safe Listening Features

Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a growing public health concern in the US and globally due to the emergence of lifestyle preferences and environmental exposures to sound levels exceeding safe listening limits for extended periods of time. Issuance of the ITU guidelines for safe listening devices/systems (ITU-T H.870) leading to the 2019 WHO-ITU standard, along with existing US federal and military standards, provide a framework for developing an accessible tool for promoting safe listening. Our proposed Hearing Health app, is being developed for an aggregated assessment of a user's daily sound exposure, through the audio system and the environment (occupation and beyond) by integrating WHO-ITU and US safe listening standards, providing real-time alerts, user-centric recommendations and education that can be integrated into user lifestyles, representing a wide demographic including young adult, adult, civilian and military populations. The overall goal of the app will be to increase NIHL awareness and facilitate improvement of user's listening behaviors.
Structural interactions between pandemic SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein and human Furin protease

Abstract The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is an urgent global public health emergency and warrants investigating molecular and structural studies addressing the dynamics of viral proteins involved in host cell adhesion. The recent comparative genomic studies highlight the insertion of Furin protease site in the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein alerting possible modification in the viral spike protein and its eventual entry to host cell and presence of Furin site implicated to virulence. Here we structurally show how Furin interacts with the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein homotrimer at S1/S2 region, which underlined the mechanism and mode of action, which is a key for host cell entry. Unravelling the structural features of biding site opens the arena in rising bonafide antibodies targeting to block the Furin cleavage and have great implications in the development of Furin inhibitors or therapeutics.
How to Improve Perceived Service Quality by Increasing Customer Participation

A conceptual framework is developed to examine the impact of customer participation in service delivery on perceptions of service quality. It is proposed that for certain services, such as those familiar to consumers or those requiring a low level of expertise, increased customer participation will generally lead to higher perceived service quality. Both direct and indirect effects of customer participation on perceived service quality are examined. A causal model is proposed to encompass these relationships and serve as a foundation for future empirical research. Implications for service firms are discussed.
A mechanistic analysis of tropical Pacific dynamic sea level in GFDL-OM4 under OMIP-I and OMIP-II forcings

Abstract. The sea level over the tropical Pacific is a key indicator reflecting vertically integrated heat distribution over the ocean. Here, we use the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory global ocean–sea ice model (GFDL-OM4) forced by both the Coordinated Ocean-Ice Reference Experiment (CORE) and Japanese 55-year Reanalysis (JRA-55)-based surface dataset for driving ocean–sea ice models (JRA55-do) atmospheric states (Ocean Model Intercomparison Project (OMIP) versions I and II) to evaluate the model performance and biases compared against available observations. We find persisting mean state dynamic sea level (DSL) bias along 9 ∘ N even with updated wind forcing in JRA55-do relative to CORE. The mean state bias is related to biases in wind stress forcing and geostrophic currents in the 4 to 9 ∘ N latitudinal band. The simulation forced by JRA55-do significantly reduces the bias in DSL trend over the northern tropical Pacific relative to CORE. In the CORE forcing, the anomalous westerly wind trend in the eastern tropical Pacific causes an underestimated DSL trend across the entire Pacific basin along 10 ∘ N. The simulation forced by JRA55-do significantly reduces the bias in DSL trend over the northern tropical Pacific relative to CORE. We also identify a bias in the easterly wind trend along 20 ∘ N in both JRA55-do and CORE, thus motivating future improvement. In JRA55-do, an accurate Rossby wave initiated in the eastern tropical Pacific at seasonal timescale corrects a biased seasonal variability of the northern equatorial countercurrent in the CORE simulation. Both CORE and JRA55-do generate realistic DSL variation during El Nino. We find an asymmetry in the DSL pattern on two sides of the Equator is strongly related to wind stress curl that follows the sea level pressure evolution during El Nino.
Potential Benefits of Pre-emptive PGx Testing in Male Breast Cancer Patients

The objective is to report a case of recurrent breast cancer in a poor CYP2D6 metabolizer male patient on tamoxifen, and how pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing can play an important role in selecting appropriate adjuvant endocrine therapy. The case examined here is a 60-year-old white male diagnosed with recurrence of breast cancer. The patient was prescribed tamoxifen four years prior as adjuvant endocrine therapy after initial treatment with surgery. PGx testing ordered at the time of recurrence revealed patient is a poor metabolizer of CYP2D6, which may decrease the efficacy of tamoxifen. The results prompted a change in therapy to an aromatase inhibitor (AI). This case illustrates the potential benefits of preemptive PGx testing in a male breast cancer patient to assist in selecting appropriate adjuvant therapy based on how the patient metabolizes medications. In addition, PGx testing encourages patient involvement by emphasizing the association of genetics in determining treatment. The ultimate goal in performing these tests is to individualize treatment to improve safety and efficacy while minimizing adverse drug reactions. Article Type: Case Study
Towards High Performance Resilience Using Performance Portable Abstractions

In the drive towards Exascale, the extreme heterogeneity of supercomputers at all levels places a major development burden on HPC applications. To this end, performance portable abstractions such as those advocated by Kokkos, RAJA and HPX are becoming increasingly popular. At the same time, the unprecedented scalability requirements of such heterogeneous components means higher failure rates, motivating the need for resilience in systems and applications. Unfortunately, state-of-art resilience techniques based on checkpoint/restart are lagging behind performance portability efforts: users still need to capture consistent states manually, which introduces the need for fine-tuning and customization. In this paper we aim to close this gap by introducing a set of abstractions that make it easier for the application developers to reason about resilience. To this end, we extend the existing abstractions proposed by performance portability efforts towards resilience. By marking critical data structures that need to be checkpointed, one can enable an optimized runtime to automate checkpoint-restart using high performance and scalable asynchronously techniques. We illustrate the feasibility of our proposal using a prototype that combines the Kokkos runtime (HPC performance portability), with the VELOC runtime (large-scale low overhead checkpoint-restart). Our experimental results show negligible performance overhead compared with a manually tuned implementation of checkpoint-restart while requiring minimal changes in the application code.
Oral Health, Diabetes, and Inflammation: Effects of Oral Hygiene Behaviour.

INTRODUCTION The aim of this research was to assess the association between inflammation and oral health and diabetes, as well as the mediating role of oral hygiene practice in this association. METHODS Data were from the 2009-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The analytical sample consisted of 2,191 respondents aged 50 and older. Poor oral health was clinically defined by significant tooth loss (STL) and periodontal disease (PD). Diabetes mellitus (DM) was determined by glycemic levels. The outcome variable was serum C-reactive protein (CRP) level, dichotomised as ≥1 mg/dL (elevated CRP) vs <1 mg/dL (not elevated CRP). Two path models, one using STL and DM as the independent variable, the other using PD and DM as the independent variable, were estimated to assess the direct effects of having poor oral health and DM on elevated CRP and the mediating effects of dental flossing. RESULTS In path model 1, individuals having both STL and DM (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.92; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.30-2.82) or having STL alone (AOR, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.68-3.15) were more likely to have elevated CRP than those with neither STL nor DM; dental flossing (AOR, 0.92, 95% CI, 0.88-0.96) was associated with lower risk of elevated CRP. In path model 2, no significant association was found between having both PD and DM and elevated CRP; dental flossing (AOR, 0.91; 95% CI:, 0.86-0.94) was associated with lower risk of elevated CRP. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this study highlight the importance of improving oral health and oral hygiene practice to mitigate inflammation. Further research is needed to assess the longer-term effects of reducing inflammation.
Gangliosides and Neuropathy

Once not long time ago there was a standard question among those who were then in the field of ganglioside research — “Do you know what gangliosides are doing? From the time of their discovery by Klenk in the mid-nineteen thirties, the unusual properties of gangliosides always aroused curiosity as to their physiological function — the presence of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups, the complex nature of the carbohydrate chain, including sialic acid, the high concentration in the brain, particularly in the neuronal membrane, and existence of genetic disorders with abnormal ganglioside metabolism. In one of the earliest studies that addressed this question, McIlwain (1) demonstrated that gangliosides could restore excitability of brain slices to electrical pulses. Wooliey and Gommi (2) suggested that some gangliosides might act as the receptor for serotonin. Gangliosides as receptors for bacterial toxins also attracted early attention, even though non-physiological (3–5). Rapport and his colleagues provided early evidence that antibody against brain gangliosides could elicit epileptic seizures when applied locally to the brain surface (6).
Understanding HIV and AIDS: Preparing Students for Practice.

Abstract As the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic continues to grow dramatically, social workers increasingly need solid knowledge and training to serve persons infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and those close to them. This article summarizes current biological, epidemiological, and medical knowledge about AIDS and HIV (including methods of preventing transmission) in a format suitable for social work students. It also suggests various ways in which such information can be incorporated into BSW and MSW curricula.
Using a 2D detector array for meaningful and efficient linear accelerator beam property validations

Following linear accelerator commissioning, the qualified medical physicist is responsible for monitoring the machine’s ongoing performance, detecting and investigating any changes in beam properties, and assessing the impact of unscheduled repairs. In support of these responsibilities, the authors developed a method of using a 2D ionization chamber array to efficiently test and validate important linear accelerator photon beam properties. A team of three physicists identified critical properties of the accelerator and developed constancy tests that were sensitive to each of the properties. The result was a 14-field test plan. The test plan includes large and small fields at varying depths, a reduced SSD field at shallow depth for sensitivity to extra focal photon and electron components, and analysis of flatness, symmetry, dose, dose profiles, and dose ratios. Constancy tests were repeated five times over a period of six weeks and used to set upper and lower investigation levels at ± 3 SDs. Deliberate variations in output, penumbra, and energy were tested to determine the suitability of the proposed method. Measurements were also performed on a similar, but distinct, machine to assess test sensitivity. The results demonstrated upper and lower investigation levels significantly smaller than the comparable TG-142 annual recommendations, with the exception of the surrogate used for output calibration, which still fell within the TG-142 monthly recommendation. Subtle changes in output, beam energy, and penumbra were swiftly identified for further investigation. The test set identified the distinct nature of the second accelerator. The beam properties of two photon energies can be validated in approximately 1.5 hrs using this method. The test suite can be used to evaluate the impact of minor repairs, detect changes in machine performance over time, and supplement other machine quality assurance testing.
The “Pro” Sequence of the Sporulation-Specific ς Transcription Factor ςE Directs It to the Mother Cell Side of the Sporulation Septum

ςE, a mother cell-specific transcription factor of sporulating Bacillus subtilis, is derived from an inactive precursor protein (pro-ςE). Activation of ςE occurs when a sporulation-specific protease (SpoIIGA) cleaves 27 amino acids from the pro-ςE amino terminus. This reaction is believed to take place at the mother cell-forespore septum. Using a chimera of pro-ςE and green fluorescent protein (GFP) to visualize the intracellular location of pro-ςE by fluorescence microscopy, and lysozyme treatment to separate the mother cell and forespore compartments, we determined that the pro-ςE::GFP signal, localized to the forespore septum prior to lysozyme treatment, is restricted to the mother cell compartment after treatment. Thus, pro-ςE::GFP had been sequestered to the mother cell side of the septum. This segregation of pro-ςE::GFP, and presumably pro-ςE, to the mother cell is likely to be the reason why ςE activity is restricted to that compartment.
General anesthetics and long-term neurotoxicity.

We do not know how general anesthetics cause their desired effects. Contrary to what has been thought until relatively recently, the clinical state of anesthesia consists of multiple components that are mediated via interaction of the anesthetic drugs with different targets on the molecular-cellular, the network, and the structural-anatomical levels. The molecular targets by which some of these drugs induce the different components of “anesthesia” may be rather specific: discrete mutations of single amino acids in specific proteins profoundly affect the ability of certain anesthetics to achieve specific endpoints. Despite this potential specificity, inhalational anesthetics are present in the body at very high concentrations during surgical anesthesia. Due to their lipid solubility, general anesthetics dissolve in every membrane, penetrate into every organelle, and can interact with numerous cellular structures in multiple ways. A priori, it is therefore not unreasonable to assume that these drugs have the potential to cause insidious changes in the body other than those acute and readily apparent ones that we routinely monitor. Some changes may wane within a short time after removal of the drug (e.g., the suppression of immune cell function). Others may persist after complete removal of the drug and even become self-propagating [e.g., β-oligomerization of proteins (Eckenhoff et al. 2004)], still others may be irreversible [e.g., the induction of apoptosis in the CNS (Jevtovic-Todorovic et al. 2003)] but of unclear significance. This article will focus on evidence for anesthetic toxicity in the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS appears to be susceptible to anesthetic neurotoxicity primarily at the extremes of ages, possibly via different pathways: in the neonate, during the period of most intense synaptogenesis, anesthetics can induce excessive apoptosis; in the aging CNS subtle cognitive dysfunction can persist long after clearance of the drug, and processes reminiscent of neurodegenerative disorders may be accelerated (Eckenhoff et al. 2004). At all ages, anesthetics affect gene expression-regulating protein synthesis in poorly understood ways. While it seems reasonable to assume that the vast majority of our patients completely restore homeostasis after general anesthesia, it is also time to acknowledge that exposure to these drugs has more profound and longer lasting effects on the brain than heretofore imagined.
A graph testing concurrency control protocol for object bases

Presents a protocol for concurrency control in object bases. The object bases model of Hadzilacos and Hadzilacos (1991) is used as a framework to describe the protocol and to derive a proof of correctness. The protocol accepts all correct executions. A definition of order preserving serializability suitable for the model is also presented. A slight modification of the protocol ensures that the produced executions obeys the defined order-preserving serializability. The protocol detects inconsistencies by constructing a graph for each node of the nested execution and testing its acyclicity. >
Survey on Emerging Research on the Use of Natural Language Processing in Clinical Language Assessment of Children

In the last decade, we have seen emerging research exploring the use of natural language processing (NLP) techniques for assisting in the identification of clinical conditions that affect language. One of these clinical conditions is language impairment, a disorder identified by delayed or disordered language patterns in an individual with normal intelligence with no neurological or other physiological conditions. In this article, we present a survey of this emerging line of research, which for the most part has focused on the task of discriminating the clinical from the non-clinical group by posing the task as an automated classification problem. The focus of this survey is on the types of features recent research has explored. We also discuss the many interesting open questions that this research has yet to explore.
Chromosome abnormalities in primary endometrioid ovarian carcinoma

Abstract Specific and recurrent chromosome abnormalities may occur in regions of the genome that are involved in the conversion of normal cells to those with tumorigenic potential. Ovarian cancer is the primary cause of death among patients with gynecologic malignancies. We performed cytogenetic analysis in a subgroup of epithelial ovarian tumors, the endometrioid tumors, which are histologically indistinguishable from endometrial carcinoma of the uterus. We studied 10 endometrioid tumors to determine the degree of cytogenetic similarity between these two carcinomas. Six of 10 endometrioid tumors showed a near-triploid modal number, and one had a tetraploid modal number. Eight of the 10 contained structural chromosome abnormalities, of which the most frequent were 1p- (5 tumors), 6q- (4 tumors), 19q- (4 tumors), and chromosome 3 rearrangements (4 tumors). These cytogenetic results resemble those reported for papillary ovarian tumors and differ from those of endometrial carcinoma of the uterus. We conclude that despite the histologic similarities between the endometrioid and endometrial carcinomas, the genetic abnormalities in the genesis of these tumors differ significantly.
Improving Web Accessibility for the Visually Impaired

Purpose – Ergonomic concerns dictate the need to be attentive to web accessibility for the visually impaired. The purpose is to update readers about how the ADA is influencing new standards for web accessibility for the visually impaired. There are many new products and tools that contribute to improving the accessibility of web content.Design/methodology/approach – Overview of how libraries are responding to the ADA mandates.Findings – With reasonable accommodation libraries can make a big difference in how visually impaired readers can have a better experience with using the computer.Originality/value – This paper is useful for current information on this new directive and there are many new resources listed for consultation.
Threshold Concepts in Chemistry: The Critical Role of Implicit Schemas

Threshold concepts are conceived as cognitive portals to new and previously inaccessible ways of thinking in a domain. They are transformative, integrative, irreversible, and troublesome concepts that open the door to highly productive ways of thinking in a discipline. Mastering threshold concepts in chemistry demands the construction of diverse cognitive elements, including implicit schemas that guide and constrain how students think about chemical substances and processes. The central goal of this paper is to highlight five critical shifts in students’ implicit schemas that should be fostered to support mastery of major threshold concepts in chemistry.
On the distributions of boundary values of Cauchy integrals

We use new methods to give short proofs to some known results on the distributions of boundary values of Cauchy integrals. We also indicate some further generalizations. INTRODUCTION Let W be an analytic function on the unit disk ID) such that 1IW < 1. Then for every a E T = l Secondary 42A50.
Is Privatization Inevitable for Forensic Science Laboratories

Abstract Given the recent global recession, many national governments have been forced to implement austerity measures, and the forensic science industry has not been immune to such changes. Proposals to privatize some or all aspects of forensic science services have been bantered about for decades, but the recent economic climate has brought this idea back to the forefront of public debates. Although privatization has been shown to have many benefits in the provision of other goods and services, the idea of privatizing forensic services has been harshly criticized by scholars and practitioners. This paper explores some of those criticisms through the lens of economics, and arguments are offered regarding why market approaches in forensic science may be more successful than might have originally been imagined under certain conditions. On the other hand, recognition of those economic forces and reaction by forensic laboratories to address inefficiencies may provide the effective delivery of forensic servic...
Fine Structure of Synovial Lining Cells in the Squamosal-Mandibular Joint of the Rat

This study delineates the fine structural characteristics of the synovial lining cells in the rat squamosal-mandibular joint. The synovial lining contained three types of cells: type A, type B, and fibroblast. The type A and type B cells were identified predominantly in the villus-containing portion of the synovial membrane. Fibroblasts, however, were observed usually as synovial-lining cells along the walls of the joint cavities.
Protein changes associated with ionizing radiation‐induced apoptosis in human prostate epithelial tumor cells

Ionizing radiation (IR) is an important component in the therapy of localized prostate cancer. Identification of protein alterations during IR-induced apoptosis prostate cancer cells is an important step toward understanding the new metabolic status of the dying cell. In the present study, we report changes in protein profile that define the execution phase of the apoptotic response in the in vitro model of tumorigenic radiation-transformed SV40-immortalized human prostate epithelial cells (267B1-XR), induced to undergo programmed cell death by IR. We employed an approach that involves use of analytical two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2-D PAGE) coupled with Western blotting with specific antisera. Our results point out that apoptotic cells experience significant reduction in the levels of the intermediate filament proteins, keratins-18, 19, vimentin and the associated 14-3-3 adapter proteins. At the same time, molecular chaperones such as glucose-regulated protein 94, calreticulin, calnexin, and protein disulfide isomerase exhibit marked accumulation in these dying cells. The present data indicate that apoptosis-associated processes in prostate epithelial cells include solubilization of the rigid intermediate filament network by specific proteolysis as well as increased levels of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) proteins with chaperone functions.
Electron paramagnetic resonance dynamic signatures of TAR RNA-small molecule complexes provide insight into RNA structure and recognition.

Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy was utilized to investigate the correlation between RNA structure and RNA internal dynamics in complexes of HIV-1 TAR RNA with small molecules. TAR RNAs containing single nitroxide spin-labels in the 2‘-position of U23, U25, U38, or U40 were incubated with compounds known to inhibit TAR−Tat complex formation. The combined changes in nucleotide mobility at all four sites, as monitored by their EPR spectral width, yield a dynamic signature for each compound. The multicyclic dyes Hoechst 33258, DAPI, and berenil bind to TAR RNA in a similar manner and gave nearly identical signatures. Different signatures were obtained for the acridine derivative CGP 40336A and the aminoglycoside antibiotic neomycin, which bind to different regions of the RNA. The dynamic signature for guanidinoneomycin was remarkably similar to that obtained for argininamide and is evidence for guanidinoneomycin binding to the same site as arginine 52 of the Tat protein, rather than to the ...