cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Investable and Interpretable Machine Learning for Equities

We propose three principles for evaluating the practical efficacy of machine learning for stock selection, and we compare the performance of various models and investment goals using this framework. The first principle is investability. To this end, we focus on portfolios formed from highly liquid US stocks, and we calibrate models to require a reasonable amount of trading. The second principle is interpretability. Investors must understand a model’s output well enough to trust it and extract some general insight from it. To this end, we choose a concise set of predictor variables, and we apply a novel method called the Model Fingerprint to reveal the linear, nonlinear, and interaction effects that drive a model’s predictions. The third principle is that a model’s predictions should be interesting, by which we mean they should convincingly outperform simpler models. To this end, we evaluate performance out-of-sample compared to linear regressions. In addition to these three principles, we also consider the important role people play by imparting domain knowledge and preferences to a model. We argue that adjusting the prediction goal is one of the most powerful ways to do this. We test random forest, boosted trees and neural network models for multiple calibrations which we conclude are investable, interpretable, and interesting.
Selective progesterone receptor blockade prevents BRCA1-associated mouse mammary tumors through modulation of epithelial and stromal genes.

Abstract Pharmacological approaches to breast cancer risk-reduction for BRCA1 mutation carriers would provide an alternative to mastectomy. BRCA1-deficiency dysregulates progesterone signaling, promoting tumorigenesis. Selective progesterone receptor (PR) modulators (SPRMs) are therefore candidate prevention agents. However, their efficacy varies in different BRCA1-deficient mouse models. We examined chemopreventive efficacy of telapristone acetate (TPA), ulipristal acetate (UPA) and mifepristone (MFP) in mice with a conditional knockout of the Brca1 C-terminal domain. The SPRMs displayed a spectrum of efficacy: UPA was most effective, TPA less, and MFP ineffective. Compared to no-treatment controls, UPA reduced tumorigenesis (p = 0.04), and increased tumor latency (p = 0.03). In benign mammary glands, UPA decreased Ki67 (p
Pharmacological and Biochemical Studies on the Digitalis Receptor: A Two-Site Hypothesis for Positive Inotropic Action

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses two-site hypothesis for positive inotropic action. The mechanism of the positive inotropic effect of digitalis glycosides has not been fully elucidated. A casual relationship may exist between the binding to and consequent inhibition of Na, K-ATPase (the sodium pump) by digitalis and an increased myocardial contractile force, and/or the mechanism may have something to do with an increase in a sarcolemmal calcium pool without inhibition of the enzyme. The chapter reports that two distinct positive inotropic sites for ouabain exist in rat ventricular strips but not in atria. The higher-affinity site correlates with [3H]ouabain binding to intact rat ventricular myocytes and cardiac sarcolemma, but not with inhibition of Na, K-ATPase activity. Although a majority of studies of [3H]ouabain binding to various membrane preparations and purified Na, K-ATPase reveal a single Class of ouabain binding sites, several workers have recently obtained results, which are consistent with the existence of two populations of ouabain binding sites.
A novel loop-loop recognition motif in the yeast ribosomal protein L30 autoregulatory RNA complex.

A novel loop-loop recognition motif in the yeast ribosomal protein L30 autoregulatory RNA complex
Implications of a direct photometric comparison of the EUV-corona and the K-Corona

We report results of co-temporal and co-spatial measurements of the K-coronal brightness (pB) and the intensity of the coronal emission line λ625 Mg X in the inner corona. The pB measurements were made with the Mark III K-coronameter on Mauna Loa (HAO/NCAR), and the EUV measurements were obtained on rocket flights of the LASP EUV Coronal Spectrometer in 1980 and 1983. The data consist of radial limb profiles of pB and λ625 intensity as a function of height above the limb that overlap between 1.10 and 1.25 solar radii. One result of this comparison is that the quantity [Ac/Ap] \([(\overline {N^2 } )/(\bar N)^2 ]\) is much greater than unity in the coronal regions sampled (a polar coronal hole and an old active region). Here Ac and Ap are the abundances of magnesium in the corona and photosphere, respectively and \([(\overline {N^2 } )/(\bar N)^2 ]\) is the electron density “irregularity factor.” If as recent work suggest the photospheric and coronal abundances of magnesium are about equal (cf Meyer 1985), then the corona is more highly structured on small scale than is visible on existing coronal images of high spatial resolution. Some implications of this for coronal physics are discussed.
Section Editorial–Skin Protection

Human skin provides a partially effective barrier against potentially toxic chemicals. Much of this barrier protection can be attributed to the stratum corneum (SC), the uppermost and nonviable layer of the epidermis because the rate-limiting step for the penetration of most substances is diffusion through the SC.
Mouse Apolipoprotein B Editing Complex 3 (APOBEC3) Is Expressed in Germ Cells and Interacts with Dead-End (DND1)

Background The dead-end (Dnd1) gene is essential for maintaining the viability of germ cells. Inactivation of Dnd1 results in sterility and testicular tumors. The Dnd1 encoded protein, DND1, is able to bind to the 3′-untranslated region (UTR) of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) to displace micro-RNA (miRNA) interaction with mRNA. Thus, one function of DND1 is to prevent miRNA mediated repression of mRNA. We report that DND1 interacts specifically with APOBEC3. APOBEC3 is a multi-functional protein. It inhibits retroviral replication. In addition, recent studies show that APOBEC3 interacts with cellular RNA-binding proteins and to mRNA to inhibit miRNA-mediated repression of mRNA. Methodology/Principal Findings Here we show that DND1 specifically interacts with another cellular protein, APOBEC3. We present our data which shows that DND1 co-immunoprecipitates APOBEC3 from mammalian cells and also endogenous APOBEC3 from mouse gonads. Whether the two proteins interact directly remains to be elucidated. We show that both DND1 and APOBEC3 are expressed in germ cells and in the early gonads of mouse embryo. Expression of fluorescently-tagged DND1 and APOBEC3 indicate they localize to the cytoplasm and when DND1 and APOBEC3 are expressed together in cells, they sequester near peri-nuclear sites. Conclusions/Significance The 3′-UTR of mRNAs generally encode multiple miRNA binding sites as well as binding sites for a variety of RNA binding proteins. In light of our findings of DND1-APOBEC3 interaction and taking into consideration reports that DND1 and APOBEC3 bind to mRNA to inhibit miRNA mediated repression, our studies implicate a possible role of DND1-APOBEC3 interaction in modulating miRNA-mediated mRNA repression. The interaction of DND1 and APOBEC3 could be one mechanism for maintaining viability of germ cells and for preventing germ cell tumor development.
The growth stimulation of SV3T3 cells by transferrin and its dependence on biotin.

Abstract A critical nutrient for the growth of SV3T3 cells is iron. Iron must be added in the ferrous form or, if in the ferric state, with a suitable complexing agent. Both transferrin and hemoglobin, as iron complexes, will stimulate cell growth in biotin supplemented medium either with low serum (0.15% v v ) or serum-free. The growth stimulation by iron (free or in complexed form) is dependent on the presence of biotin in the medium. These results indicate the importance of transferrin as a serum growth factor.
Cardiac autonomic imaging with SPECT tracers

Radionuclide cardiac imaging has potential to assess underlying molecular, electrophysiologic, and pathophysiologic processes of cardiac disease. An area of current interest is cardiac autonomic innervation imaging with a radiotracer such as 123I-meta-iodobenzylguanidine (123I-mIBG), a norepinephrine analogue. Cardiac 123I-mIBG uptake can be assessed by planar and SPECT techniques, involving determination of global uptake by a heart-to-mediastinal ratio, tracer washout between early and delayed images, and focal defects on tomographic images. Cardiac 123I-mIBG findings have consistently been shown to correlate strongly with heart failure severity, pre-disposition to cardiac arrhythmias, and poor prognosis independent of conventional clinical, laboratory, and image parameters. 123I-mIBG imaging promises to help monitor a patient’s clinical course and response to therapy, showing potential to help select patients for an ICD and other advanced therapies better than current methods. Autonomic imaging also appears to help diagnose ischemic heart disease and identify higher risk, as well as risk-stratify patients with diabetes. Although more investigations in larger populations are needed to strengthen prior findings and influence modifications of clinical guidelines, cardiac 123I-mIBG imaging shows promise as an emerging technique for recognizing and following potentially life-threatening conditions, as well as improving our understanding of the pathophysiology of various diseases.
Isolation and characterization of a novel rat factor H-related protein that is up-regulated in glomeruli under complement attack

The factor H family in humans is composed of seven distinct proteins, including factor H-related proteins (FHR) 1-5. All members contain tandemly arranged short consensus repeats (SCR) typical of the regulators of complement activation gene family. FHR-5 is unusual for this group of proteins, as it was initially identified as a component of immune deposits in glomerular diseases. During our cloning of the cDNA for rat factor H from glomerular epithelial cells (GEC), we identified an alternative 2729-bp cDNA transcript. The translated sequence encoded a protein containing 11 SCRs, most similar to SCRs 7-15 and 19-20 in native rat factor H, which is the same basic structure of human FHR-5. As such, this rat protein was termed FHR. Recombinant rat FHR produced in a eukaryotic expression system had a molecular mass of 78 kDa. In functional studies, recombinant FHR bound C3b and inhibited the complement alternative pathway in a dose-dependent fashion. Given the prominent expression of FHR-5 in human membranous nephropathy, a disease in which complement activation occurs in the vicinity of GEC, the expression of FHR in a rat model of this disease was evaluated. In both in vitro and in vivo models of complement activation on the GEC, FHR mRNA was up-regulated by a factor of 3-6-fold compared with controls in which complement could not be activated. Thus, we have identified a novel factor H family member in rats. This FHR protein is analogous to human FHR-5, both in structure and in potential involvement in glomerular immune complex diseases.
Adiabatic ionization potential and electron affinity of formaldehyde

Abstract The adiabatic ionization potential and electron affinity for CH2O have been calculated using high levels of ab initio molecular orbital theory. Harmonic vibrational frequencies and zero-point energies also have been predicted. At the CCSD(T)/6-311++G(3df,3pd) level of theory, the adiabatic ionization potential is calculated as 10.82 eV as compared to the experimental literature value of 10.8887±0.0030 eV. The electron affinity is calculated to be −0.96 eV, compared to the experimental literature value of −0.65±0.05 eV.
Hemostatic laparoscopic partial nephrectomy assisted by a water-cooled, high-density, monopolar device without renal vascular control

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the feasibility of laparoscopic partial nephrectomy assisted by a water-cooled, high-density, monopolar device (TissueLink Floating Ball). Methods Transperitoneal laparoscopic partial nephrectomy was performed without vascular control for four renal tumors in 3 patients. A flexible ultrasound probe was used to confirm tumor location and depth. Gerota’s fascia was opened distant from the tumor site. Renal fat was dissected from the renal parenchyma except for the fat overlying the tumor. The tumor resection area was marked 1 cm outside the boundaries of the tumor. After application of the TissueLink Floating Ball at the planned surgical margin, the tumor was resected with cold laparoscopic scissors. Bleeding from the vessels of the divided renal parenchyma was controlled with the Floating Ball if necessary. The specimen was sent for frozen section to confirm margin status. Results Mean estimated blood loss per tumor was 275 mL. The dissection extended to the collecting system in 2 of 4 cases. In 1 patient, a minor postoperative urine leak resolved spontaneously. Conclusions Use of the TissueLink Floating Ball facilitated resection of small renal tumors without renal vascular control. Although further study is necessary, water-cooled, high-density monopolar energy may have a role in laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.
Microbial‐based motor fuels: science and technology

The production of biofuels via microbial biotechnology is a very active field of research. A range of fuel molecule types are currently under consideration: alcohols, ethers, esters, isoprenes, alkenes and alkanes. At the present, the major alcohol biofuel is ethanol. The ethanol fermentation is an old technology. Ongoing efforts aim to increase yield and energy efficiency of ethanol production from biomass. n‐Butanol, another microbial fermentation product, is potentially superior to ethanol as a fuel but suffers from low yield and unwanted side‐products currently. In general, biodiesel fuels consist of fatty acid methyl esters in which the carbon derives from plants, not microbes. A new biodiesel product, called microdiesel, can be generated in engineered bacterial cells that condense ethanol with fatty acids. Perhaps the best fuel type to generate from biomass would be biohydrocarbons. Microbes are known to produce hydrocarbons such as isoprenes, long‐chain alkenes and alkanes. The biochemical mechanisms of microbial hydrocarbon biosynthesis are currently under study. Hydrocarbons and minimally oxygenated molecules may also be produced by hybrid chemical and biological processes. A broad interest in novel fuel molecules is also driving the development of new bioinformatics tools to facilitate biofuels research.
Predicting asthma exacerbations: Peak expiratory flow revisited

The ability to predict and prevent future exacerbations has been a consistent focus of asthma research. Although some progress has been made on identifying factors associated with an increased risk of exacerbation at the population and individual levels, no measure or instrument is available for widespread use in the asthma community. In this issue of the Journal, Thamrin et al present a statistical method used to calculate the future exacerbation risk for a patient (as defined by deterioration in percent predicted peak expiratory flow [PEF]) based on the history of fluctuations in lung function (percent predicted PEF). The authors challenge us to reframe our analytic approach to asthma. Frey et al have suggested that a patient with asthma should be thought of as a complex, nonlinear dynamic systems network; such a network exhibits fluctuations over time in physiologic and clinical variables. However, such a system also exhibits memory effects, and although changes can occur over time, the recent past will include most of the pertinent information needed to predict the short-term future risk. Viewingasthma through this framework, it follows that the single best individual parameter to predict the risk of an exacerbation over the next year is the history of an exacerbation in the prior year. The natural history of asthma in any given patient is a summation of personal characteristics (eg, demographics, inflammatory profile, and lungmechanics), genetics, both the physical (exposure to environment [environmental tobacco smoke, pollution, and allergens]) and psychosocial (access to care) environment, and therapy (including adherence). The complex interaction of these factors results in the overall clinical phenotype expressed by a patient, and this helps explain why the recent past is a strong predictor of future events. Modeling asthma as a complex, nonlinear dynamic system also fits with our increasing recognition of the heterogeneity of asthma. Patients with asthma present differently in regard to symptoms, physiologic measures, inflammatory indices, and perception of obstruction; measuring a single parameter at a single point might not
The pill: emblem of liberation.

The pill is one of the few drugs to have remained essentially unchanged decades after its synthesis—testament to its enduring value
Template fabrication schemes for step and flash imprint lithography

Abstract Step and flash imprint lithography (SFIL) is an attractive method for printing sub-100 nm geometries. Relative to other imprinting processes, SFIL has the advantage that the template is transparent, thereby facilitating conventional overlay techniques. The purpose of this work is to investigate alternative processes for defining features on an SFIL template. The first method considered using a much thinner (
Role of Frontotemporal Fiber Tract Integrity in Task-Switching Performance of Healthy Controls and Patients with Temporal Lobe Epilepsy

The objective of this study is to investigate the relationships among frontotemporal fiber tract compromise and task-switching performance in healthy controls and patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). We performed diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) on 30 controls and 32 patients with TLE (15 left TLE). Fractional anisotropy (FA) was calculated for four fiber tracts [uncinate fasciculus (UncF), arcuate fasciculus (ArcF), dorsal cingulum (CING), and inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus (IFOF)]. Participants completed the Trail Making Test-B (TMT-B) and Verbal Fluency Category Switching (VFCS) test. Multivariate analyses of variances (MANOVAs) were performed to investigate group differences in fiber FA and set-shifting performances. Canonical correlations were used to examine the overall patterns of structural-cognitive relationships and were followed by within-group bivariate correlations. We found a significant canonical correlation between fiber FA and task-switching performance. In controls, TMT-B correlated with left IFOF, whereas VFCS correlated with FA of left ArcF and left UncF. These correlations were not significant in patients with TLE. We report significant correlations between frontotemporal fiber tract integrity and set-shifting performance in healthy controls that appear to be absent or attenuated in patients with TLE. These findings suggest a breakdown of typical structure-function relationships in TLE that may reflect aberrant developmental or degenerative processes.
Design Control for Clinical Translation of 3D Printed Modular Scaffolds

The primary thrust of tissue engineering is the clinical translation of scaffolds and/or biologics to reconstruct tissue defects. Despite this thrust, clinical translation of tissue engineering therapies from academic research has been minimal in the 27 year history of tissue engineering. Academic research by its nature focuses on, and rewards, initial discovery of new phenomena and technologies in the basic research model, with a view towards generality. Translation, however, by its nature must be directed at specific clinical targets, also denoted as indications, with associated regulatory requirements. These regulatory requirements, especially design control, require that the clinical indication be precisely defined a priori, unlike most academic basic tissue engineering research where the research target is typically open-ended, and furthermore requires that the tissue engineering therapy be constructed according to design inputs that ensure it treats or mitigates the clinical indication. Finally, regulatory approval dictates that the constructed system be verified, i.e., proven that it meets the design inputs, and validated, i.e., that by meeting the design inputs the therapy will address the clinical indication. Satisfying design control requires (1) a system of integrated technologies (scaffolds, materials, biologics), ideally based on a fundamental platform, as compared to focus on a single technology, (2) testing of design hypotheses to validate system performance as opposed to mechanistic hypotheses of natural phenomena, and (3) sequential testing using in vitro, in vivo, large preclinical and eventually clinical tests against competing therapies, as compared to single experiments to test new technologies or test mechanistic hypotheses. Our goal in this paper is to illustrate how design control may be implemented in academic translation of scaffold based tissue engineering therapies. Specifically, we propose to (1) demonstrate a modular platform approach founded on 3D printing for developing tissue engineering therapies and (2) illustrate the design control process for modular implementation of two scaffold based tissue engineering therapies: airway reconstruction and bone tissue engineering based spine fusion.
Nucleoside Phosphatases of Fetal and Maternal Blood Cells: Electron Microscope Study

Surface membranes of the blood cells located within the maternal blood sinuses of the rat placenta contain reaction products of nucleoside phosphatases. Fetal blood cells separated from maternal blood by the placental labyrinth show no activity during normal or prolonged gestation. Neonatal blood cells examined 34 hours after parturition show these enzyme activities.
Metabolic adaptations through the PGC-1α and SIRT1 pathways

Energy homeostasis in mammals is achieved through tight regulation of tissue-specific metabolic pathways that become dysregulated in metabolic diseases including diabetes and obesity. At the molecular level, main nutrient and hormonal signaling pathways impinge on expression of genes encoding for metabolic enzymes. Among the major components of this transcriptional circuitry are the PGC-1α transcriptional complexes. An important regulatory mechanism of this complex is through acetylation and SIRT1-mediated lysine de-acetylation under low nutrient conditions. Activation of SIRT1 can mimic several metabolic aspects of calorie restriction that target selective nutrient utilization and mitochondrial oxidative function to regulate energy balance. Thus, understanding the PGC-1α and SIRT1 pathways might have important implications for comprehending metabolic and age-associated diseases.
Multi-institutional survey of laparoscopic ureterolysis for retroperitoneal fibrosis.

OBJECTIVES Medical therapy often fails to cure benign retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF), necessitating a surgical approach. Preoperative and postoperative adjuvant medical therapy and the timing of surgical intervention are not well-established. We surveyed centers of laparoscopic excellence to determine the current practices in the treatment of RPF. METHODS Surveys were sent to all institutions with Endourological Society-recognized fellowships. The data collected were analyzed for trends in the treatment of RPF. Additional information was collected from participating institutions to better characterize the experience with laparoscopic ureterolysis and adjunctive medical management. RESULTS Of the surveys sent out, 17 completed surveys were returned (41%). A total of 73 patients had been treated for RPF. Most centers (13 of 17) used a conventional laparoscopic approach with rare conversion to hand assistance. The medical management of RPF was directed by urologists, rheumatologists, or other specialists in 59%, 24%, and 18% of institutions, respectively. Steroid therapy was administered preoperatively by 15 of 17 centers. Postoperatively, 10 of 17 centers continued treatment with steroids and/or cytotoxic agents. Eight institutions provided data on 46 renal units in the second part of the study. The success rate of laparoscopic ureterolysis per renal unit was 83% (38 of 46). No difference was seen in the outcomes of patients who received adjuvant medical therapy compared with those who did not (16 of 19 versus 22 of 27; P = 0.48) after a mean follow-up of 17.7 months. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study have shown that no uniform treatment algorithm exists for RPF at centers of laparoscopic excellence. Most institutions recommended an attempt at steroids followed by laparoscopic ureterolysis. Laparoscopic ureterolysis had a high success rate, and adjuvant medical therapy did not appear to contribute to the success rate.
Problems with identifying adjustment costs from regressions of investment on q

Abstract Most econometricians evaluate investment- q regressions by using the coefficients to estimate adjustment costs. However, these coefficients do not uniquely identify average adjustment costs or speeds, nor do they appear in the expression for marginal adjustment costs in terms of observables.
Finite basis sets for the Dirac equation constructed from B splines

A procedure is given for constructing basis sets for the radial Dirac equation from B splines. The resulting basis sets, which include negative-energy states in a natural way, permit the accurate evaluation of the multiple sums over intermediate states occurring in relativistic many-body calculations. Illustrations are given for the Coulomb-field Dirac equation and tests of the resulting basis sets are described. As an application, relativistic corrections to the second-order correlation energy in helium are calculated. Another application is given to determine the spectrum of thallium (where finite--nuclear-size effects are important) in a model potential. Construction of B-spline basis sets for the Dirac-Hartree-Fock equations is described and the resulting basis sets are applied to study the cesium spectrum.
Teachers’ and principals’ perceptions of the summative evaluation conference: an examination of Model I theories‐in‐use

A research team consisting of doctoral students and their faculty advisor investigated the differences in perceptions, beliefs, and attitudes between school principals and teachers in a United States suburban Midwest school district using a qualitative embedded case study research design. Researchers interviewed all building principals; they invited 80 teachers who received summative evaluations within the previous 18 months to participate in the left‐ and right‐hand column case method, 40 teachers participated; the team also examined district documents related to summative evaluations. Findings indicated that principals and teachers operate in Model I theory‐in‐use.
Characterization of Two Polyubiquitin Binding Sites in the 26 S Protease Subunit 5a

Ubiquitylated proteins are degraded by the 26 S protease, an enzyme complex that contains 30 or more unique subunits. One of these proteins, subunit 5a (S5a), has been shown to bind ubiquitin-lysozyme conjugates and free polyubiquitin chains. Using deletional analysis, we have identified in the carboxyl-terminal half of human S5a, two independent polyubiquitin binding sites whose sequences are highly conserved among higher eukaryotic S5a homologs. The sites are approximately 30-amino acids long and are separated by 50 intervening residues. When expressed as small fragments or when present in full-length S5a molecules, the sites differ at least 10-fold in their apparent affinity for polyubiquitin chains. Each binding site contains 5 hydrophobic residues that form an alternating pattern of large and small side chains, e.g. Leu-Ala-Leu-Ala-Leu, and this pattern is essential for binding ubiquitin chains. Based on the importance of the alternating hydrophobic residues in the binding sites and previous studies showing that a hydrophobic patch on the surface of ubiquitin is essential for proteolytic targeting, we propose a model for molecular recognition of polyubiquitin chains by S5a.
Bovine neutrophil activation by culture fluid from Pasteurella haemolytica serotypes A1 and A11

Neutrophil activation has been thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of fibrinous pneumonia caused by Pasteurella haemolytica serotype A1. The activation of bovine neutrophils by culture fluid from the pathogenic P. haemolytica serotype A1 and the non-pathogenic serotype A11 was compared. Logarithmic-phase bacteria of each serotype were incubated in RPMI 1640-medium for 3 h at 37 degrees C. The culture fluid was collected by centrifugation and concentrated by ultrafiltration. The concentrated culture fluids were then tested for their ability to induce chemotaxis and respiratory burst in bovine neutrophils. Chemotactic activity was of similar magnitude in response to both serotypes. An early chemiluminescence response occurred at 5 min at 1:100 dilution and a late peak at 11 min at 1:500 dilution for serotype A1. The early peak was absent at all dilutions tested for serotype A11. Maximal chemiluminescence response was observed at 1:25 dilution with serotype A11 while maximal response was seen at 1:500 dilution with the culture fluid from serotype A1. Superoxide anion release was greater in response to culture fluid from A1 than A11 at all dilutions tested. Leukotoxin activity was 50-fold higher in culture fluid from serotype A1 than in culture fluid from serotype A11. In this study, the ability of P. haemolytica to attract and activate bovine neutrophils was not restricted to the pathogenic serotype A1.
Measuring Quality of Life of Long-Term Breast Cancer Survivors: The Long Term Quality of Life–Breast Cancer (LTQOL-BC) Scale

The authors developed a quality-of-life measure specific to long-term breast cancer survivors. Participants were women diagnosed with early-stage disease ≥7 years postdiagnosis. The final scale is the result of an iterative interview process with the 28-item scale administered to 285 participants. Factor analysis demonstrated with seven domains: physical, sexual and cognitive function, body image, coping, social support, and anxiety. Cronbach's alpha is .88. Convergent and divergent validity are also reported. The Long Term Quality of Life–Breast Cancer Scale has domains specific to breast cancer and will be useful to psychosocial and clinical researchers.
Axial astigmatic fields in the focal region

The axial field distribution near the focus of a collimating system subject to astigmatism is examined. It is shown that a doubly-peaked focusing response results and that the aperture efficiency is increased with a greater illumination taper. The results are applicable to a paraboloidal reflector with different foci in the two principal planes.
Affinity chromatographic purification of human immunoglobulin M from human B lymphocyte cell culture supernatant

Abstract Compared to immunoglobulin G purification with extensively studied affinity ligands such as protein A and protein G, little work has been done on affinity chromatographic purification of immunoglobulin M. Hexamer peptide ligand HWRGWV, previously shown to bind specifically to the Fc fragment of IgG, also demonstrated potential for IgM purification. This study presents further characterization and investigation of this ligand for its potential for purification of IgM. Different running conditions were employed in order to improve the recovery and purity of IgM. The final recovery and purity of the antibody is feedstock dependent, but can reach levels of both recovery and purity as high as 95%. The dependence of the recovery and purity on total loading amount and initial IgM concentration were investigated and discussed. Although relatively low dynamic binding capacities (DBC) in the range of 4.6–13.1 mg IgM/mL resin at linear flow rates from 173 to 35 cm/h were obtained for IgM compared to IgG because of the large molecular weight of IgM, the DBC value of HWRGWV for IgM is much greater than protein-based IgM affinity ligands found in the literature and is competitive with current commercially available affinity ligands, such as KAPTIVE-M, CaptureSelect IgM and Ultralink Immobilized Mannan Binding Protein.
Approach to management of penile fracture in men with underlying Peyronie's disease.

Abstract Objectives To report on a series of patients with Peyronie’s disease (PD) who experienced a penile fracture, examining the history, presentation, and management. Additionally, we describe an unreported surgical technique implementing combined fracture repair and tunica plication. PD is an acquired inflammatory condition of the penis that can cause fibrotic, nonexpansile thickening of the tunica albuginea, resulting in a focal bend or narrowing on erection. Methods From October 1999 to July 2003, 4 patients with nonsurgically treated PD had a penile fracture during sexual activity. The mean patient age was 43 years (range 29 to 52), with an average of 5.5 days (range 3 to 8) transpiring from the time of penile trauma to surgery in the men presenting early. Penile ultrasonography was used to locate the site of tunica laceration. Results Either circumcising or ventral midline incisions were selected to treat these patients. During penile exploration, the tunica defect in the corpus cavernosum was identified and closed with 2-0 Maxon suture. Subsequent artificial erection displayed penile curvature in 3 patients, and plication was then performed to straighten the tunica angulation using 2-0 TiCron suture. The fourth patient had a minimal bend with slight waisting, not requiring plication. No perioperative complications occurred. These 4 patients regained their preoperative level of erectile rigidity with lasting nonpainful correction of their deformity. Conclusions Patients with PD who have a penile fracture are candidates for combined fracture repair and tunica plication at the same setting.
The Archaeology of California

Stimulated by several important, recent empirical advances, California archaeologists are engaged in a series of lively debates. These advances include new discoveries about the early peopling of western North America and sustained occupation of the California coasts as early as 12–13,000 BP. There also have been significant new developments in the role of paleoenvironmental change in cultural evolution, the emergence of long-distance interaction spheres, the presence of intensive craft specializations, and the appearance of sociopolitically complex hunter–gatherers. This article addresses these issues—and several others—with a view to the general interests of scholars worldwide. The exceptional heterogeneity of California ecosystems (from deserts to dense redwood forests to bountiful offshore islands) and the remarkable cultural diversity exhibited by the dozens of major groups who made these lands their home combine to produce a complex indigenous sociopolitical picture. Current understandings reveal myriad trajectories of cultural change across nine major subregions of the state.
Overweight Children's Barriers to and Support for Physical Activity

Objective: As the epidemic of overweight increases among youth, research needs to examine factors that may influence children's participation in weight-related health behaviors. This study examined overweight children's perceived barriers to and support for physical activity compared with nonoverweight children. Research Methods and Procedures: Barriers to and support for physical activity were examined among 84 overweight children attending a summer fitness camp or a university-based weight loss clinic. Barriers and support levels were then compared with those of 80 nonoverweight children of a similar age range. Results: Body-related barriers were the most predominant barrier type among overweight youth, especially among overweight girls. Overweight children, particularly girls, reported significantly higher body-related, resource, and social barriers to physical activity compared with nonoverweight children and lower levels of adult support for physical activity. Discussion: Overweight children may be particularly vulnerable to body-related barriers to physical activity, and reducing such barriers may serve as physical activity intervention points most relevant for overweight youth. Future interventions may also benefit from enhancing support for physical activity from adults and peers.
Diffusion-controlled cluster formation in two, three, and four dimensions

Diffusion-controlled cluster formation has been simulated in two-, three-, and four- dimensional space. The radii of gyration (${R}_{g}$) of the resulting clusters have a power-law dependence on the number of particles in the cluster $(N) {R}_{g}={N}^{\ensuremath{\beta}}$. The corresponding Hausdorff dimensionality ($D=\frac{1}{\ensuremath{\beta}}$) is related to the Euclidean dimensionality $d$ by the relationship $D\ensuremath{\sim}\frac{5}{6}d$ for $d=3$ and 4. For the two-dimensional case we find that $\frac{D}{d}$ has a value about 2% smaller (0.847 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.01). However, a value of $\frac{5}{6}$ (0.833) is only just outside the 95% confidence limits and cannot be completely ruled out. In the two-dimensional simulations $\ensuremath{\beta}$ is insensitive to lattice details and in both two- and three-dimensional simulations $\ensuremath{\beta}$ is insensitive to the sticking coefficient ($S$) over the range $1.0\ensuremath{\ge}S\ensuremath{\ge}0.1$.
Salt Marsh Tidal Channel Morphometry: Applications for Wetland Creation and Restoration

The morphometry of tidal channels in a back-barrier salt marsh in New Jersey was investigated. Characteristics of the tidal channel drainage network plan form (order, bifurcation ratio, length, sinuosity) and cross section channel form (width:depth ratio, hydraulic geometry) are compared with data from other studies. Drainage patterns follow Horton’s Law of Stream Numbers and Law of Stream Lengths. Mitigation sites should be designed in accordance with these laws. The degree to which site-specific substrate, vegetation, and flow conditions constrain or facilitate the development of sinuous, meandering channel reaches should be estimated to provide information for the design of tidal channel geometries and dimensions that will accommodate predicted discharges. Drainage networks in created and restored wetlands should reflect the spatial distribution of width and depth properties (width:depth ratios, cross-sectional areas, longitudinal slopes, hydraulic geometry) found in similar natural systems. Reproducing these characteristics will lessen the practice of oversizing channels. Hydraulic geometry relationships can facilitate the sizing of channels at Atlantic coast salt marsh mitigation sites. Recommendations are given to promote the development of drainage networks that function like the coastal back-barrier Avalon/Stone Harbor marsh in New Jersey.
"Puertorriqueñas Rencorosas y Mejicanas Sufridas": Gendered Ethnic Identity Formation in Chicago's Latino Communities

Este articulo argumenta que, a pesar de los distintos intentos institucionales por forjar una identidad latina, las mujeres puertorriquenas y mejicanas adoptan frecuentemente una identidad nacional para configurar nociones dicotomas del "ser" y el "otro," basadas en valores culturales "patentes," que son a su vez, utilizados para explicar el exito o el fracaso de estas en el ambito laboral, familiar o comunitario. Basado en una investigacion etnografica entre un grupo de puertorriquenas en Chicago, este articulo presenta los distintos modos en que las puertorriquenas y las mejicanas se comprenden unas a otras. Aunque por lo general estas representaciones est´n basadas en construcciones estereotipadas de lo que corresponde ser una "buena" mejicana o puertorriquena, muchas mujeres se hacen de estos estereotipos y los transforman en virtudes culturales que las permiten distinguirse del "otro". Este articulo investiga estas construcciones de identidad etnica y de genero, y examina como el grupo generacional, la politica comunitaria local, los cambios en la economia politica local y nacional y la ideologia familiar dan forma a la identidad de genero entre las mejicanas y puertorriquenas en Chicago
A comparison of fluorescein dye and antibiotic-resistantEscherichia coli as indicators of pollution in groundwater

Field experiments were conducted to evaluate the performance of antibiotic-resistanceEscherichia coli and yellow fluorescein dye as tracers of subsurface water flow. These materials were released into three horizontal lines installed in the A, B, and C horizons of a western Oregon hillslope soil. Movement was evaluated by collecting groundwater samples from rows of modified piezometers (6 piezometers/row) placed at various depths and distances downslope from the injection lines. TheE. coli cells were transported rapidly through the experimental site and were recovered from piezometers 15 m dowslope only 1 h after inoculation while the rate by which the bacteria were moved was at least 1500 cm h−1 in the B-horizon. The strains ofE. coli survived in large numbers for the duration of the 12 h sampling periods and appeared to be satisfactory as tracers of subsurface water flow. In contrast, the fluorescein dye was never visually detectable in any of the piezometers during any of the sampling periods although very small, residual amounts could be fluorometrically measured. The widespread use of dyes as water tracers and the potential for incorporating antibiotic-resistant fecal bacteria to this effect is discussed.
An Overview of the Strengthening of Glass Fibers by Surface Stress Relaxation

Pristine glass fiber is well known to become mechanically weaker when heat-treated in the presence of water vapor. However, recently, the same fiber was found to become stronger if heat-treated while held under a subcritical tensile stress at a temperature below the glass transition temperature. The added strength was attributed to the formation of a surface compressive layer on the glass created by a surface stress relaxation process that occurred while being held under the tensile stress in air. Silica glass fibers with strengths estimated to be ~7–8 GPa were produced, exceeding the ~5.5 GPa strength of fresh optical fiber commonly reported at room temperature in air. Similar degrees of strengthening, a 20–30% improvement, have been observed previously for E-glass and is reported here for the first time for soda-lime silicate glasses. This process is a new glass strenthening method that may be applied to all oxide glasses and is not subject to the same constraints as currently available methods.
Ultrasound-Guided Methylene Blue Dye Injection for Parathyroid Localization in the Reoperative Neck

Background The goal of this study was to review a single institution’s experience using intraoperative ultrasound-guided (ioUSG) methylene blue dye injection for the localization and removal of enlarged parathyroid glands in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and a history of previous neck surgery.
Wideband analog and digital beamforming

High quality beamforming is necessary for the integrity of phased arrays and accuracy of monopulse direction finding systems. Traditionally, beamformers are realized as hybrid or monolithically integrated analog sub-systems. Their wideband operation is plagued by higher loss, amplitude and phase misbalances, weight, complex integration, etc. All these factors contribute to the errors in beam-pointing and geo-location, as well as antenna pattern contamination. This paper compares the performance of analog and digital beamformers realized for wideband operation through HF/VHF range. Recent advances in digital integrated circuits have contributed to not only improved performance of analog to digital (ADC) and digital to analog (DAC) converters and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) but also to their reduced cost. Thus, we are now able to realize complete modeforming functionality in a digital domain and thus enhance the performance of beamformers. Modelling, performance, and realization of analog and digital beamformers for the mode 1 operation of a 4-arm spiral are discussed and relevant conclusions drawn.
Reduction of children's locomotor activity by modeling and the promise of contingent reward.

Sixty children aged 4 and 5 were observed in an open field situation under instructions to stay in one part of a playroom and to play with a single toy of their choice during an initial 15-minute period. They were then placed for 5 minutes in an adjacent observation room and exposed to 1 of 5 different experimental conditions. Subjects in the modeling conditions observed an adult male sitting in one distinctive part of the playroom and playing with Tinker Toys. Subjects in the enriched modeling condition also saw the model receive reward for his subdued behavior and heard him verbalize reasons for his actions. Subjects in nonmodeling conditions merely observed the empty playroom during the 5 minutes. Finally, all subjects were observed in the playroom for a second 15-minute session. Children in the reinforcement conditions were now promised pennies for staying in one part of the room and playing with a single toy of their choice. Both modeling and the promise of contingent reward resulted in a reduction of locomotor activity and a reduction of toy-switching behavior, though the effects of these variables did not combine in an additive way. Enriched modeling had an additional effect on toy-switching behavior only. Males spent more time in the modeled quadrant than did females. The results were interpreted as support for the importance of modeling and reinforcement in children's compliance with instructions.
Extracardiac pressure changes do not alter contractile function of the isolated left ventricle

To determine whether or not extracardiac pressure has an effect on left ventricular contractile function, we analyzed pressure-volume relationships of six isolated, perfused canine hearts in an air-tight chamber. The chamber pressure was set at -60, -30, 0, 30 and 60 mm Hg and left ventricular pressure-volume relationships studied. The slope (Ees) and volume axis intercept (Vo) of the transmural pressure-volume relationship were used to compare the pump functions of an individual heart at the different extracardiac pressures applied. No significant difference in either Ees or Vo was seen with different extracardiac pressures. During isovolumic ventricular contraction, developed left ventricular pressure did not change over the range of extracardiac pressures applied. The same was true during ejecting contraction; when the downstream pressure of the computer simulated afterload circuit and the venous filling pressure of the preload circuit were changed in parallel with the extracardiac pressure, pressure-volume loops remained identical throughout their course for all of the extracardiac pressures applied. We conclude that transmural pressure is the overwhelmingly dominant loading factor governing LV contraction, and myocardial contractile function is unaffected by the absolute value of extracardiac pressure.
Medical information metropolitan area network

A joint project by Shands Hospital, the College of Medicine at the University of Florida, and the Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) has produced the design and partial completion of a comprehensive Metropolitan Area Network (MAN). The purpose of this MAN is to supply an integrated medical information network to a number of remote clinical sites both existing and planned. The joint cooperation with GRU will allow the replacement of the current power distribution intercommunications with reliable high speed optical paths.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Synthesis and stability of Br2, ICI and IBr intercalated pitch-based graphite fibers

The intercalation of halogens in pitch-based fiber is studied as well as the stability of the resultant intercalation compounds. It is found that IBr intercalates P-100 to yield a high-sigma GIC with attractive stability properties. During ICl intercalation, the presence of O2 interferes with the reaction and necessitates a higher threshold pressure for intercalation.