cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reproductive hormones and interleukin-6 in serious leisure male athletes

Lifestyles associated with different types and intensities of exercise result in improved health including positive changes in chronic low-grade inflammatory biomarkers. Alternatively, some forms of exercise adversely affect reproductive health of men, including changes in circulating reproductive hormones. To explore the associations between exercise intensity and circulating levels of reproductive hormones, and inflammatory analytes in serious leisure athletes (triathletes and cyclists) and recreational athletes. Male athletes 18–60 years old, 16 triathletes, 46 cyclists and 45 recreational athletes, were recruited to provide plasma for the measurement of total testosterone, estradiol, follicular stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone (LH), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), cortisol, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels, and calculation of free androgen index (FAI) and the estradiol:SHBG ratio (ESR). Plasma estradiol concentrations were more than two times higher in cyclists than in triathletes and recreational athletes (p < 0.01). Testosterone levels were also higher in cyclists than recreational athletes (p < 0.01), but not significantly different from triathletes. SHBG levels were higher in triathletes and cyclists than in recreational athletes (p < 0.01). LH levels were lower in cyclists than in recreational athletes (p < 0.05). IL-6 and IL-1β levels were each two times lower in triathletes than in cyclists (p < 0.05) and IL-6 levels were lower in cyclists than in recreational athletes (p < 0.01). IL-1β levels were two times lower in triathletes than in cyclists (p < 0.05). Circulating estradiol and testosterone levels were elevated in serious leisure male cyclists. This effect is discussed in light in the absence of a substantial concomitant change in gonadotropin levels and other variables.
Studies with the monkey-intra-nuclear-inclusion-agent (MINIA) and foamy-agent derived from spontaneously degenerating monkey kidney cultures. I. Isolation and tissue culture behavior of the agents and identification of MINIA as closely related to measles virus.

1. MINIA and foamy-agent are both agents which have been unmasked by the routine procedure of culturing trypsinized monkey kidney tissue. MINIA occurred in 17%, foamy-agent in 57% of the 99 monkey kidney-cell batches prepared from individual and pooled rhesus and/or cynomolgus monkey kidneys over a period of 18 months. 2. MINIA produces identical cytopathic changes in monkey kidney cultures as does measles virus. The difficulties involved in differentiating the cytopathogenic effect of MINIA from the one produced by the foamyagent in unstained and early fixed and stained preparation of monkey kidney tissue are stressed since a superficial similarity exists in the cytopathic capacity of the foamy-agent and the degenerative effects produced by MINIA and measles virus. 3. Twelve strains of MINIA and 10 strains of foamy-agent recovered from spontaneously degenerating monkey kidney cultures were isolated in human kidney, human amniotic membrane and rabbit kidney cultures. It was found that MINIA could be propagated in HAM but not in rabbit kidney, as was true for human measles virus strains, whereas serial propagation of foamy-agent was possible in the latter but not in HAM. 4. The tissue culture behavior of 8 MINIA strains and 8 foamy-agent strains was investigated. All MINIA strains were found to be indistinguishable between their 1st and 25th HAM passage with respect to their cytopathic capacity and infectivity and identical with the tissue culture behavior of human measles virus. All foamy-agent strains studied were similar in their behavior and distinct from the cytopathic properties of MINIA and measles virus. 5. The difference in tissue response of HAM and rabbit kidney tissue to infection with MINIA and foamy-agent as well as cross-neutralization and cross-complement fixation technic were utilized for the identification of the agents. 6. The immunological properties of 8 MINIA strains investigated were indistinguishable and identical with those of human measles virus. All foamy-agent strains studied were immunologically related to each other and distinct from MINIA and measles virus.
Investigation of a near-infrared fiber optic immunosensor

The designs of NIR optical fiber immunosensors for the detection of biomolecules are discussed. The use of fiber optics combined with laser-excited fluorescence detection ((lambda) max equals 780 nm) and immunochemical techniques has provided the essential components for developing simpler and more practical, sensitive and selective immunosensors. The antibody is immobilized on the distal end of a surface-activated polymethyl methylacrylate sensor. As the probe is placed in different concentrations of antigenic substance, the antibody reacts with its corresponding antigen through sandwich and/or competitive immunoassays. The concentrations varied from 10 - 100 ng/ml. The near-infrared dye labeled antigen - antibody complex is excited and the emitted fluorescence is collected with a silicon photodiode detector equipped with an 820-nm bandpass filter. In order to determine various factors influencing the immunosensor's performance, the fluorescence intensity responses are obtained under a variety of conditions. The sensor response depending on the type of surface-activating reagent, surface activation period, incubation time, and other measurement conditions also are discussed.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Rank restriction for the variational calculation of two-electron reduced density matrices of many-electron atoms and molecules

Variational minimization of the ground-state energy as a function of the two-electron reduced density matrix (2-RDM), constrained by necessary $N$-representability conditions, provides a polynomial-scaling approach to studying strongly correlated molecules without computing the many-electron wave function. Here we introduce a route to enhancing necessary conditions for $N$ representability through rank restriction of the 2-RDM. Rather than adding computationally more expensive $N$-representability conditions, we directly enhance the accuracy of two-particle (2-positivity) conditions through rank restriction, which removes degrees of freedom in the 2-RDM that are not sufficiently constrained. We select the rank of the particle-hole 2-RDM by deriving the ranks associated with model wave functions, including both mean-field and antisymmetrized geminal power (AGP) wave functions. Because the 2-positivity conditions are exact for quantum systems with AGP ground states, the rank of the particle-hole 2-RDM from the AGP ansatz provides a minimum for its value in variational 2-RDM calculations of general quantum systems. To implement the rank-restricted conditions, we extend a first-order algorithm for large-scale semidefinite programming. The rank-restricted conditions significantly improve the accuracy of the energies; for example, the percentages of correlation energies recovered for HF, CO, and N${}_{2}$ improve from 115.2%, 121.7%, and 121.5% without rank restriction to 97.8%, 101.1%, and 100.0% with rank restriction. Similar results are found at both equilibrium and nonequilibrium geometries. While more accurate, the rank-restricted $N$-representability conditions are less expensive computationally than the full-rank conditions.
Development of a Resorbable Tricalcium Phosphate (TCP) Amine Antibiotic Composite

Calcium phosphate collagen composites are currently being used to rebuild bone. Commercial collagen preparations have been claimed to he hvpo-antigenic but none are non-antigenic. The collagen in calcium phosphate collagen composites is eventually degraded to its component amino acids. Two thirds of collagen consists of glvcine, hvdroxvproline, and proline. Since both tricalcium phosphate (TCP) and collagen are resorbable and both can he utilized to form bone, incorporation of amino acids into TCP-amino acid composites should nrovide the building blocks for formation of new bone. Stich composites should also be non-antigenic. Previous work conducted with composites of amino acids with aluminum calcium phosphorous oxide (ALCAP) ceramics, has shown that these composites can be uised to repair traumatized bone in rats. In our study, experiments conducted with TCP cysteine, Ivsine, or proline composites showed that the composites, after setting to hardness, degrade slowly and can he molded into different froms. Dissolution studies were conducted with composites of TCP with each of the above amino acids in Tris-MCl buffer (PH 7.4) at 37°C in vitro. Experiments conducted with antibiotics showed that antibiotics such as penicillin and ervthromvcin can be incorporated into the TCP amino acid composite. Subcutaneous implants of TCP amino acid composites in rats showed that most of the TCP-proline composite was degraded bv day 4, TCP-lvsine composite he day 7, and TCP-cysteine composite by day 21. Our results suggest that TCP amino acid composites are biocomnatible and can he used to repair experimentally traumatized bone.
Vertical transmission of respiratory syncytial virus modulates pre- and postnatal innervation and reactivity of rat airways.

Background Environmental exposure to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of respiratory infections in infants, but it remains unknown whether this infection is transmitted transplacentally from the lungs of infected mothers to the offspring. We sought to test the hypothesis that RSV travels from the respiratory tract during pregnancy, crosses the placenta to the fetus, persists in the lung tissues of the offspring, and modulates pre- and postnatal expression of growth factors, thereby predisposing to airway hyperreactivity. Methodology Pregnant rats were inoculated intratracheally at midterm using recombinant RSV expressing red fluorescent protein (RFP). Viral RNA was amplified by RT-PCR and confirmed by sequencing. RFP expression was analyzed by flow cytometry and viral culture. Developmental and pathophysiologic implications of prenatal infection were determined by analyzing the expression of genes encoding critical growth factors, particularly neurotrophic factors and receptors. We also measured the expression of key neurotransmitters and postnatal bronchial reactivity in vertically infected lungs, and assessed their dependence on neurotrophic signaling using selective biological or chemical inhibition. Principal Findings RSV genome was found in 30% of fetuses, as well as in the lungs of 40% of newborns and 25% of adults. RFP expression was also shown by flow cytometry and replicating virus was cultured from exposed fetuses. Nerve growth factor and its TrkA receptor were upregulated in RSV- infected fetal lungs and co-localized with increased cholinergic innervation. Acetylcholine expression and smooth muscle response to cholinergic stimulation increased in lungs exposed to RSV in utero and reinfected after birth, and blocking TrkA signaling inhibited both effects. Conclusions/Significance Our data show transplacental transmission of RSV from mother to offspring and persistence of vertically transmitted virus in lungs after birth. Exposure to RSV in utero is followed by dysregulation of neurotrophic pathways predisposing to postnatal airway hyperreactivity upon reinfection with the virus.
Methodological considerations of task and shoe wear on joint energetics during landing

To better understand methodological factors that alter landings strategies, we compared sagittal plane joint energetics during the initial landing phase of drop jumps (DJ) vs. drop landings (DL), and when shod vs. barefoot. Surface electromyography, kinematic and kinetic data were obtained on 10 males and 10 females during five consecutive drop landings and five consecutive drop jumps (0.45 m) when shod and when barefoot. Energy absorption was greater in the DJ vs. DL (P = .002), due to increased energy absorption at the hip during the DJ. Joint stiffness/impedance was more affected by shoe condition, where overall stiffness/impedance was greater in shod compared to barefoot conditions (P = .036). Further, hip impedance was greater in shod vs. barefoot for the DL only (via increased peak hip extensor moment in DL), while ankle stiffness was greater in the barefoot vs. shod condition for the DJ only (via decreased joint excursion and increased peak joint moment in DJ vs. DL) (P = .011). DJ and DL place different neuromechanical demands upon the lower extremities, and shoe wear may alter impact forces that modulate stiffness/impedance strategies. The impact of these methodological differences should be considered when comparing landing biomechanics across studies.
Differential expression of Bcl-2 and Bax may enhance neuroblastoma survival.

Abstract Background/Purpose: Aggressive tumors may alter their expression of Bcl-2 proteins to decrease apoptosis and increase survival. The authors reported previously that neuroblastoma cells have diminished apoptosis when placed in coculture with hepatocytes to stimulate a metastatic environment. It was hypothesized that the expression of proapoptotic (Bax) and prosurvival (Bcl-2 and Mcl-1) proteins would be altered in neuroblastoma cells grown in a cell culture model of metastatic neuroblastoma. Methods: Human neuroblastoma cells (IMR-32) were grown alone or in coculture with human hepatocytes for 2, 3, or 4 days. Bcl-2, Mcl-1, and Bax mRNA were measured with reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results: Bcl-2, an antiapoptotic protein, was significantly increased in cocultured neuroblastoma cells by day 4. Bax, a proapoptotic protein, was significantly diminished by day 3. No significant change in Mcl-1 occurred in this study. Conclusions: When neuroblastoma cells placed in coculture, the prosurvival protein, Bcl-2, is upregulated whereas the proapoptotic protein, Bax, is downregulated. The combination of these changes can maximally enhance the survival rate of neuroblastoma cells in coculture. The propensity for neuroblastoma to either metastasize or regress may be associated with its ability to differentially regulate the expression of different members of the Bcl-2 protein family. J Pediatr Surg 38:486-491. Copyright 2003, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Personal communication systems (PCS)

Personal communication systems (PCS) represent a rapidly growing and increasingly important segment of the telecommunication industry. The goal of PCS is to provide truly personal, cost-efficient communication services to users through portable handsets. In this paper, we present a survey on the research and development in PCS, emphasizing several important aspects such as the PCS concept, service requirements, system architecture, operation, and management. Some ongoing field trials are described as well. We focus on the wireless and the mobility-related features of PCS, discuss their impact on the system design and performance, and provide an overview of different technology choices. >
Nusselt Numbers and Flow Structure on and Above a Shallow Dimpled Surface Within a Channel Including Effects of Inlet Turbulence Intensity Level

Experimental results from a channel with shallow dimples placed on one wall are given for Reynolds numbers based on channel height from 3,700 to 20,000, levels of longitudinal turbulence intensity from 3% to 11% (at the entrance of the channel test section), and a ratio of air inlet stagnation temperature to surface temperature of approximately 0.94. The ratio of dimple depth to dimple print diameter δ∕D is 0.1, and the ratio of channel height to dimple print diameter H∕D is 1.00. The data presented include friction factors, local Nusselt numbers, spatially averaged Nusselt numbers, a number of time-averaged flow structural characteristics, flow visualization results, and spectra of longitudinal velocity fluctuations which, at a Reynolds number of 20,000, show a primary vortex shedding frequency of 8.0Hz and a dimple edge vortex pair oscillation frequency of approximately 6.5Hz. The local flow structure shows some qualitative similarity to characteristics measured with deeper dimples (δ∕D of 0.2 and 0.3), with smaller quantitative changes from the dimples as δ∕D decreases. A similar conclusion is reached regarding qualitative and quantitative variations of local Nusselt number ratio data, which show that the highest local values are present within the downstream portions of dimples, as well as near dimple spanwise and downstream edges. Local and spatially averaged Nusselt number ratios sometimes change by small amounts as the channel inlet turbulence intensity level is altered, whereas friction factor ratios increase somewhat at the channel inlet turbulence intensity level increases. These changes to local Nusselt number data (with changing turbulence intensity level) are present at the same locations where the vortex pairs appear to originate, where they have the greatest influences on local flow and heat transfer behavior.
Paradigm of design for biosystem-on-a-chip(BioSoC)

The paradigm of design for biosystem-on-a-chip (BioSoC), is that multidisciplinary skills are required. Thus, the educational goals are to develop an understanding of micro/macro collaboration along with the ability to apply and use multidisciplinary skills for the design and performance evaluation of a "biosystem on a chip". The need for the architectural design of the BioSoC addresses the next-generation of intelligent information processing systems.
Nutrient content of the seagrass Thalassia testudinum reveals regional patterns of relative availability of nitrogen and phosphorus in the Florida Keys USA

Between 1992 and 2000, we sampled 504 randomly chosen locations in the Florida Keys, Florida, USA, for the elemental content of green leaves of the seagrass Thalassia testudinum. Carbon content ranged from 29.4-43.3% (dry weight), nitrogen content from 0.88-3.96%, and phosphorus con- tent from 0.048-0.243%. N and P content of the samples were not correlated, suggesting that the rela- tive availability of N and P varied across the sampling region. Spatial pattern in C:N indicated a de- crease in N availability from inshore waters to the reef tract 10 km offshore; in contrast, the pattern in C:P indicated an increase in P availability from inshore waters to the reef tract. The spatial pattern in N:P was used to define a P-limited region of seagrass beds in Florida Bay and near shore, and an N- limited region of seagrass beds offshore. The close juxtaposition of N-and P-limited regions allows the possibility that N loading from the suburban Florida Keys could influence the offshore, N-limited sea- grass beds without impacting the more nearshore, P-limited seagrass beds.
Analysis of State Transition Diagrams for RFID-Based Two-Way Access Control

The logic for determining the passing direction of a person through a two-way access control portal is rather complicated. This paper analyzes the state transition diagrams based on sensor fusion data to clarify the confusing decision making logic. An RFID-based access control system, coupled with infrared sensors, is implemented in a two-way portal to verify the proposed technique.
Field effects on picosecond photoconductive switch

A rigorous method that successfully incorporates the ensemble Monte-Carlo technique with the time-domain finite difference method of solving the time-varying Maxwell's equation is presented. The interactions between electromagnetic fields and carrier transport properties have been studied, and the transient processes in the picosecond photoconductive switch have been revealed. This method is generally applicable to other ultrafast semiconductor optoelectronic devices. >
The Effect of Emphasizing Mathematical Structure in the Acquisition of Whole Number Computation Skills (Addition and Subtraction) By Seven- and Eight-Year Olds: A Clinical Investigation.

Level The learner writes a number story about the process he just completed at the concrete and representative levels. 8 + 7 =EI 8 + (2 + 5) .0 (8 + 2)+ 5 =El 10 + 5 =0 15 EB and
Odd harmonic generation of ultra-intense laser pulses reflected from an overdense plasma

A method of generating odd harmonics from an intense laser incident upon a sharp vacuum-overdense plasma interface is presented. One- and two-dimensional simulations are used to investigate the interaction of ultra-intense laser pulses with a sharp vacuum-plasma interface. With an intensity greater than 10/sup 18/ W/cm/sup 2/, these pulses have a pressure greater than 10/sup 3/ Mbar creating large density oscillations and relativistic electron velocities at the surface. This results in efficient odd harmonic generation. The author present is a physical model for this harmonic generation mechanism, along with some scaling of the power in the third harmonic. This is compared with relativistic particle-in-cell simulations that include mobile and immobile ions, as well as a variety of upper shelf densities. A discussion on how ion profile modifications influence the harmonics is also presented. >
Community ecology of invasions: direct and indirect effects of multiple invasive species on aquatic communities

With many ecosystems now supporting multiple nonnative species from different trophic levels, it can be challenging to disentangle the net effects of invaders within a community context. Here, we combined wetland surveys with a mesocosm experiment to examine the individual and combined effects of nonnative fish predators and nonnative bullfrogs on aquatic communities. Among 139 wetlands, nonnative fish (bass, sunfish, and mosquitofish) negatively influenced the probability of occupancy of Pacific treefrogs (Pseudacris regilla), but neither invader correlated strongly with occupancy by California newts (Taricha torosa), western toads (Anaxyrus boreas), or California red-legged frogs (Rana draytonii). In mesocosms, mosquitofish dramatically reduced the abundance of zooplankton and palatable amphibian larvae (P. regilla and T. torosa), leading to increases in nutrient concentrations and phytoplankton (through loss of zooplankton), and rapid growth of unpalatable toad larvae (through competitive release). Bullfrog larvae reduced the growth of native anurans but had no effect on survival. Despite strong effects on natives, invaders did not negatively influence one another, and their combined effects were additive. Our results highlight how the net effects of multiple nonnative species depend on the trophic level of each invader, the form and magnitude of invader interactions, and the traits of native community members.
Alternate day fasting for weight loss in normal weight and overweight subjects: a randomized controlled trial

Alternate day fasting (ADF; ad libitum “feed day”, alternated with 25% energy intake “fast day”), is effective for weight loss and cardio-protection in obese individuals. Whether these effects occur in normal weight and overweight individuals remains unknown. This study examined the effect of ADF on body weight and coronary heart disease risk in non-obese subjects. Thirty-two subjects (BMI 20–29.9 kg/m2) were randomized to either an ADF group or a control group for 12 weeks. Body weight decreased (P < 0.001) by 5.2 ± 0.9 kg (6.5 ± 1.0%) in the ADF group, relative to the control group, by week 12. Fat mass was reduced (P < 0.001) by 3.6 ± 0.7 kg, and fat free mass did not change, versus controls. Triacylglycerol concentrations decreased (20 ± 8%, P < 0.05) and LDL particle size increased (4 ± 1 A, P < 0.01) in the ADF group relative to controls. CRP decreased (13 ± 17%, P < 0.05) in the ADF group relative to controls at week 12. Plasma adiponectin increased (6 ± 10%, P < 0.01) while leptin decreased (40 ± 7%, P < 0.05) in the ADF group versus controls by the end of the study. LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, homocysteine and resistin concentrations remained unchanged after 12 weeks of treatment. These findings suggest that ADF is effective for weight loss and cardio-protection in normal weight and overweight adults, though further research implementing larger sample sizes is required before solid conclusion can be reached.
Family-centered care for military and veteran families affected by combat injury.

The US military community includes a population of mostly young families that reside in every state and the District of Columbia. Many reside on or near military installations, while other National Guard, Reserve, and Veteran families live in civilian communities and receive care from clinicians with limited experience in the treatment of military families. Though all military families may have vulnerabilities based upon their exposure to deployment-related experiences, those affected by combat injury have unique additional risks that must be understood and effectively managed by military, Veterans Affairs, and civilian practitioners. Combat injury can weaken interpersonal relationships, disrupt day-to-day schedules and activities, undermine the parental and interpersonal functions that support children’s health and well-being, and disconnect families from military resources. Treatment of combat-injured service members must therefore include a family-centered strategy that lessens risk by promoting positive family adaptation to ongoing stressors. This article reviews the nature and epidemiology of combat injury, the known impact of injury and illness on military and civilian families, and effective strategies for maintaining family health while dealing with illness and injury.
In-situ gas hydrate hydrate saturation estimated from various well logs at the Mount Elbert Gas Hydrate Stratigraphic Test Well, Alaska North Slope

Abstract In 2006, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) completed detailed analysis and interpretation of available 2-D and 3-D seismic data and proposed a viable method for identifying sub-permafrost gas hydrate prospects within the gas hydrate stability zone in the Milne Point area of northern Alaska. To validate the predictions of the USGS and to acquire critical reservoir data needed to develop a long-term production testing program, a well was drilled at the Mount Elbert prospect in February, 2007. Numerous well log data and cores were acquired to estimate in-situ gas hydrate saturations and reservoir properties. Gas hydrate saturations were estimated from various well logs such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), P- and S-wave velocity, and electrical resistivity logs along with pore-water salinity. Gas hydrate saturations from the NMR log agree well with those estimated from P- and S-wave velocity data. Because of the low salinity of the connate water and the low formation temperature, the resistivity of connate water is comparable to that of shale. Therefore, the effect of clay should be accounted for to accurately estimate gas hydrate saturations from the resistivity data. Two highly gas hydrate-saturated intervals are identified – an upper ∼43 ft zone with an average gas hydrate saturation of 54% and a lower ∼53 ft zone with an average gas hydrate saturation of 50%; both zones reach a maximum of about 75% saturation.
PEASOUP: preventing exploits against software of uncertain provenance (position paper)

Because software provides much of the critical services for modern society, it is vitally important to provide methodologies and tools for building and deploying reliable software. While there have been many advances towards this goal, much research remains to be done. For example, a recent evaluation of five state-of-the-art C/C++ static analysis tools applied to a corpus of code containing common weaknesses revealed that 41% of the potential vulnerabilities were detected by no tool. The problem of deploying resilient software is further complicated because modern software is often assembled from components from many sources. Consequently, it is difficult to know who built a particular component and what processes were used in its construction. Our research goal is to develop and demonstrate technology that provides comprehensive, automated techniques that allow end users to safely execute new software of uncertain provenance. This paper presents an overview of our vision for realizing these goals and outlines some of the challenging research problems that must be addressed to realize our vision. We call our vision PEASOUP and have begun implementing and evaluating these ideas.
Time-of-arrival (TOA) estimation based structured sparse channel estimation algorithm, with applications to digital TV receivers

We introduce a new structured channel impulse response (CIR) estimation method for sparse multipath channels where we demonstrate a robust way of restoring the pulse shape into the composite CIR. We call this novel CIR estimation method time-of-arrival based blended least squares (TOA-BLS) which uses symbol rate sampled signals, and it is based on blending correlation processing followed by TOA estimation in the frequency domain by the least squares based channel estimation. TOA estimation in the frequency domain is accomplished by estimating the AR model parameters by solving the forward and forward-backward linear prediction equations in the least squares sense. Simulation examples are drawn from the ATSC digital TV 8-VSB system (ATSC Digital Television Standard, A/53, 1995). The delay spread for digital TV systems can be as long as several hundred times the symbol duration; however, digital TV channels are sparse where there are only a few dominant multipaths.
Using Concept Mapping to Identify Action Steps for Physical Activity Promotion in Cancer Treatment.

Background The benefits of exercise during and after cancer treatment represent research areas that have received increased attention throughout the past 2 decades. Numerous benefits have been observed for cancer survivors who are physically active, yet oncologists have been slow to incorporate exercise counseling into practice. Purpose The objective of this study was to gather input from both researchers and oncologists as to what needs to happen for exercise to become part of standard cancer care once treatment ends. Methods The concept mapping process was utilized to realize this goal. Results A total of 37 unique ideas were produced by participants and were grouped into 6 clusters: education, inclusion of exercise professionals, changes within the current oncology environment, research, needed components of exercise programs, and patient focused. Each of these clusters represents an area of concentration where changes are suggested for further promotion of physical activity for cancer survivors. Parti...
The President’s Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief: From Successes Of The Emergency Response To Challenges Of Sustainable Action

The President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has made a major contribution to the reduction of the global HIV/AIDS burden. The program initially focused on rapidly scaling up treatment a...
ACTH responses to hypotension and feedback inhibition of ACTH increased by chronic progesterone treatment.

During pregnancy, arterial pressure, baroreceptor sensitivity, and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) responses to hypotension are decreased. Basal ACTH and cortisol are increased in pregnancy, sug...
The Effect of Initial Tracheoesophageal Voice Prosthesis Size on Postoperative Complications and Voice Outcomes.

Objectives:The optimal initial size of tracheoesophageal voice prosthesis (TEVP) for tracheoesophageal voice restoration (TEVR) remains unclear. As purported advantages exist favoring the placement of both 16F and 20F prostheses, this study compares complications and voicing outcomes after placement of 16 and 20 French (F) prostheses.Methods:All cases of TEVR at an academic medical center were retrospectively reviewed (2007-2013). Complications including dislodgement, leakage, infection, and granulation tissue were compared. Outcomes including frequency of prosthesis change, acquisition of speech, and time to fluent speech were compared.Results:Of 47 patients, 25 received 20F prostheses, and 22 received 16F. Postoperative complications were similar between groups, including leakage around the prosthesis (P = .373) and aspiration pneumonia (P = .670). There were no significant differences in timing of voicing or ability to achieve fluency. Although the 20F group appeared to undergo fewer prostheses changes...
Government Finances In Declining Central Cities

The relationship between population decline and changes in the revenue and expenditure patterns of 318 U.S. central cities during the 1970s are examined using both static and dynamic models. Declining cities experienced less growth in revenues, especially own-source revenues, than growing cities. Declining cities became more dependent upon other governments for fiscal relief. But declining central cities were more successful at reducing the rate of growth in their expenditures. Population decline was not found to have any significant independent impact on changes in municipal taxing andspending levels. A city's age was the most important predictor of fiscal change.
Adherence to diagnostic guidelines of hepatocellular carcinoma: 12-year experience in a veterans affairs medical center

BACKGROUND Noninvasive diagnostic criteria for cirrhotic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were first established in 2001 by the European Association for the Study of the Liver. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate adherence to the HCC diagnostic algorithm over time and identify factors associated with nonadherence. METHODS Between 2001 and 2013, 224 consecutive cirrhotic HCC cases were retrospectively reviewed. Nonadherent biopsy (NAB) was defined as cases diagnosed either by biopsy despite meeting noninvasive criteria for HCC or by biopsy in place of an optional second imaging modality. Nonadherent nonbiopsy (NANB) was defined as cases diagnosed without performing biopsy when noninvasive criteria were not met. Factors associated with nonadherence were identified using multivariate analysis. RESULTS Nonadherence rate decreased from 52 to 30% over the study period (P = 0.003). Among all patients, there were 34% NAB and 13% NANB cases. Compared with the adherence group, both NAB and NANB groups were likely to undergo only computed tomography scanning [odds ratio (OR) 3.08, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.71-5.66 and OR 3.18, 95% CI 1.28-8.27, respectively] and were less likely to undergo MRI (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.16-0.53 and OR 0.26, 95% CI 0.10-0.66, respectively). In addition, the NAB group was less likely to be presented in a multidisciplinary tumor conference (OR 0.12, 95% CI 0.02-0.61). CONCLUSION This is the first study to report adherence to HCC diagnostic guidelines over time in a veteran hospital. Despite overall improvement, nonadherence at the present time is still high (∼ 30%). Underutilization of MRI and the multidisciplinary tumor conference is associated with nonadherence, representing a potential area for improvement.
Autosomal Dominant Epilepsy Syndrome Linked to 2p11

A newly recognized autosomal dominant epilepsy syndrome with linkage to chromosome 2p11.1-q12.2 is described in an Italian pedigree of 8 patients reported from the Neurosciences Unit, Institute of Child Health and Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK.
Psychology and the School of Business Curriculum

The article discusses the results of a survey on the types of services offered by psychologists in business schools and the advantages of having a knowledge of psychology in the business world. The...
Investigation and Analysis on A Typhoid Fever Outbreak in Factory Workers

Objective To investigate the extent and cause of the typhoid fever(TF) outbreak and provide a scientific basis for control measures.Method We have done a case-control study on the TF outbreak and compared the cases with control on the exposure to risk factors.We collected information concerning the general public health environment inside and outside the factory,and food and drink samples.Result We identified 28 cases from this TF outbreak and no case died.Salmonella typhi(ST) isolated from 12 cases had identical PFGE patterns.Cases were widely distributed among 10 of the 217 factories.The average attack rate was 3.1‰ and the attack rate had no significant difference between factories(χ2=5.2,P=0.74).In the single factor analysis and multiple factors analysis showed there were 3 risk factors which had significant differences between cases and controls.The 3 risk factors were eating meals outside(OR=8.0,95%CI: 2.6-25),eating cold noodle(OR=6.8,95%CI: 1.4-32) and drinking tap water directly without boiling(χ2=4.9,P 0.01).We isolated fecal coliform bacteria but no ST from well water samples,samples of bottom mud,and water samples from the water tank in factories.Conclusion This TF outbreak probably resulted from contaminated well water and from cold noodles rinsed with that water.In addition to general sanitation measures and treatment of patients,we ceased well water supply and substituted it with local municipal water and none new case was then occurred.
Laboratory Aspects of Immunology

The field of clinical immunology is advancing rapidly and will continue to grow and benefit from the knowledge gained in different areas of basic immunology. The diagnosis and evaluation of a child with a suspected primary immune defect can be a challenging task that should be done carefully using the best available laboratory resources. Simple laboratory screening tests, available to most pediatricians, can be done initially and will provide an idea of the level of general immune competence. Referral for a more detailed evaluation should be made in selected cases. A basic understanding of the tests used in immune evaluation, as well as the fact that the results may be affected by multiple variables, is important. Of equal significance is the interaction of the physician with the laboratory in which the samples will be analyzed. Proper sample collection and handling as well as prompt processing by the laboratory are crucial. Equally important is the physician's interpretation of results in the context of the pediatric population. Tests like lymphocyte studies, WBC studies, immunoglobulin subclasses, response to antigenic challenge, and certain complement assays require a higher degree of expertise and should only be sent to laboratories with experience in performing them. Physicians need to gain confidence in the power of diagnosis that the immunology laboratory brings to their patients.
Use of Aspergillus galactomannan enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in liver transplant patients.

We report three cases of invasive Geotrichum capitatum infection in patients with acute leukemia for which an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for Aspergillus galactomannan was positive, with no evidence of aspergillosis. Supernatants obtained from suspensions of 17 G. capitatum strains gave positive reactions with the Aspergillus galactomannan ELISA. These clinical and laboratory data seem to suggest that G. capitatum produces a soluble antigen that is cross-reactive with Aspergillus galactomannan.
The Evolution of TMD Diagnosis: Past, Present, Future

This review explores the principles and process associated with the diagnosis of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). TMD diagnosis has evolved substantially over the past 25 y. Previously, diagnosis focused solely on aberrations in oral structures, largely without empirical evidence. The Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMD (RDC/TMD) were developed on core principles of 1) a dual-axis system reflecting the biopsychosocial model, 2) a clear operationalization for reliability, and 3) the allowance of multiple diagnoses. These principles were retained in the subsequent validation research of the RDC/TMD, and the current diagnostic system-the Diagnostic Criteria for TMD (DC/TMD)-has improved on those principles as well as on diagnostic validity and protocols for assessing the psychosocial domain. Further investigations into etiology and its potential contribution to taxonomy revision are described, particularly within the context of complex disease. The review concludes with an outline of major research areas already underway that will support future revisions of the DC/TMD.
Summer water in a restored native grassland flushes annual grass seed bank but fails to increase native perennial cover

Natural and artificial flushing of the weed seed bank, followed by killing of seedlings, is a common practice in agricultural and prerestoration settings, but its application for post-restoration management has not been tested in the context of restored native plants. Summer watering at already restored sites could reduce exotic annual grass cover by decreasing the seed bank, thereby increasing native perennial success in subsequent growing seasons. Five replicated watering treatments of 11.35 L per watering event were applied for up to a 4 week period, with watering events ranging from once daily for a minimum or four and maximum of 16 d, or twice daily for 4 d, for a total of 45.4–181.7 L water applied in each 1-m2 plot. Two of the watering treatments triggered significant flushing of annual grasses: watering for a total of 16 d once per day, and 4 d twice per day. Although this conferred a short-term reduction in annual grass emergence at the start of the subsequent rainy season, it did not reduce total annual cover at peak flowering in the growing season, or provide a longer term advantage to native perennial grasses. It is possible that there are sufficient seeds in the seed bank that this at least partly compensated for the seed bank reduction and did not result in a reduction in final cover, or that lower densities of seedlings are sufficient to achieve “total” cover. Perennial grass cover increased in response to all watering treatments, but this did not result in significantly increased cover the following year. These results suggest that even watering treatments that produce large flushes of exotic annual grasses are insufficient to reduce exotic cover longer term. It should be explored whether more water, applied more frequently, could be effective in reducing the exotic grass seed bank enough to confer a long-term reduction in exotic cover and a benefit to native perennial grasses.
Victorian critics, narrative annexes, and prescriptions for the novel

Throughout this study I emphasize the prescriptions and warnings of Victorian critics, and I chart their reactions to narrative annexes in order to illuminate Victorians' assumptions about the proper roles, shapes, and subjects of fiction. I introduce in this chapter the vocabulary of realm, domain, and boundary shared by Victorian critics and writers of fiction, and I begin to show how the small alternative zones of narrative annexes fit in a theory of the Victorian novel, even as they test the Victorians' ordinances regarding the shapes and contents of fiction. A related aim of this chapter is to show how recognition of narrative annexing contributes to a broader account of the limitations and capacities of Victorian fiction. For many Victorian novels, not even counting the reams of formula fiction written for the circulating libraries, do not employ narrative annexes. Just as most Victorian novels present their events without flashbacks, most first-person narratives do without access to the consciousnesses of other characters, and many novels set in the country do not require an excursion to the city, many Victorian novels accomplish their narrative work without annexes. While keeping in mind the heterogeneity of the Victorian novel in its many genres, its diverse modes of publication, its various (overlapping and sometimes antithetical) aims – to entertain, instruct, titillate, support the author's family, record abuses, instigate reform, indoctrinate, and express visions of community and versions of character – the presence or absence of narrative annexes contributes to our understanding of the novel as a product of a particular time and culture.
Kings by Law, Lineal Succession, and Undoubted Right

At the time of Elizabeth’s death any excursion through England’s dynastic history would have demonstrated one incontestable truth: there was an abundance of data but no settled rule of succession. Heredity as the determinant of right was no more than a vulnerable presumption. Although the roll call of monarchs in the almost five and a half centuries since the Norman Conquest pointed repeatedly to an hereditary principle, that principle had been honoured as much in the breach as in the observance. To argue, therefore, for James’s right to succeed Elizabeth on the basis of a rule of heredity was to require skilful navigation through dangerous waters. There were shoals everywhere. James was an alien incapable of inheriting English land and Henry VII, from whom the Tudor line derived, had no hereditary right at all. Despite a catalogue of manufactured claims, Henry was neither the Lancastrian nor the Yorkist heir. What, then, did it mean for James Stuart to contend for an indefeasible right of descent if it could be argued that although he was closest in blood to Elizabeth there were others who were, or might be, nearer to the Plantagenets, or to William the Conqueror, or to an even earlier Saxon king? Why not accept Robert Parsons’ candidate, Isabella, the Spanish Infanta, who could trace her own descent back through John of Gaunt to Edward III, and thence to the Conqueror himself?
Optimization of transmitter and receiver design for optoelectronic computing

Optoelectronic computing systems that combine electronic circuits with optical interconnect elements have been considered for many applications where the cost of communication is higher than that of computation. We have previously developed a method of evaluating the performance of the optoelectronic interface, referred to as a photonics layer, and examined various transmitter and receiver technologies separately. In this paper, we report our recent results in the design optimization of the overall photonics layer. We examine the total electrical power dissipated in both the transmitter and the receiver modules, and optimize the receiver configurations to achieve a minimum electrical power dissipation at a given bit rate.
An Integrated Treatment Delivery System for SRS and SRT

The current technology of Linac-based stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) as practiced in most institutions around the world is based on 3-dimensional cross firing of the target by multiple arc beams.1 This delivers a spherical homogeneous treatment volume with a very rapid fall off in dose. This treatment is best suited for small tumors that resemble spheres. In instances of less ideally shaped tumors, the treatment volume will include a larger proportion of healthy brain. Hence, treatment with a larger circular collimator exposes more normal brain to high dose irradiation. It is for this reason that doses prescribed to be delivered with larger collimators are lower than those are delivered with smaller collimators. Therefore, volumes larger than 4 cm in diameter are not even considered for SRS. To better conform to an irregular tumor volume, 2 or more overlapping isocenters can be used. This leads to hot areas within the overlap region and increased complications.2 It is clear that brain toxicity can be reduced by conforming the irradiated volume to the target volume and by maintaining the dose distribution within the target as uniformly as possible.