cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Backing Without Realism

Facts about explanation are often taken as a guide to facts about metaphysics. Such inferences from explanation to metaphysics typically rely on two elements: explanatory realism, the view that it is a characteristic and necessary aspect of explanation to give information about metaphysical structure, and a backing model of explanation, according to which explanations are backed by supporting relations, such as causation. Combining explanatory realism with a backing model permits conclusions about metaphysics to follow straightforwardly from facts about explanation, and those who endorse backing models of explanation have typically endorsed explanatory realism. In light of recent critiques of explanatory realism, in this paper I explore the prospects for a backing model without explanatory realism. I articulate a non-realist backing model and argue that this model can satisfy most of the motivations for a realist backing model, and that it can also play a central and illuminating role in the practice of metaphysics.
Hypocretin/Orexin and Motor Function

As the literature on hypocretin/orexin has grown, so has the list of functions attributed to this system. Recent papers have routinely listed sleep and arousal control, blood pressure regulation, feeding, motor control, and others as functions for the hypocretin system (1, 2, 3, 4). The question I address here is whether such an inclusive listing is an appropriate acknowledgement of the complexity and subtlety of hypocretin’s function or whether a simpler relationship may underlie the multiple correlations that have been seen.
Solvability for Photoacoustic Imaging With Idealized Piezoelectric Sensors

Most reconstruction algorithms for photoacoustic imaging assume that the pressure field is measured by the ultrasound sensors placed on a detection surface. However, such sensors do not measure pressure exactly due to their nonuniform directional and frequency responses, and resolution limitations. This is the case for piezoelectric sensors that are commonly employed for photoacoustic imaging. In this article, using the method of matched asymptotic expansions and the basic constitutive relations for piezoelectricity, we propose a simple mathematical model for piezoelectric transducers. The approach simultaneously models how the pressure waves induce the piezoelectric measurements and how the presence of the sensors affects the pressure waves. Using this model, we analyze whether the data gathered by the piezoelectric sensors lead to the mathematical solvability of the photoacoustic imaging problem. We conclude that this imaging problem is well posed in certain normed spaces and under a geometric assumption. We also propose an iterative reconstruction algorithm that incorporates the model for piezoelectric measurements. A numerical implementation of the reconstruction algorithm is presented.
Fundamental Operations of Language: Reflections on Optimal Design

20 years ago, in lectures in Brasilia, I suggested that we might someday discover that the Faculty of Language (FL) is “beautifully designed, a near-perfect solution to the conditions imposed by the general architecture of the mind-brain in which it is inserted, another illustration of how natural laws work out in wondrous ways,” so that language is rather like a snowflake, and the near-perfect design can be expected to impose inefficiency of use. I added that “these are fables,” with the redeeming value that they “might even turn out to have some elements of validity. In the years since, solid reasons have been found to suggest that these hopes were understated, and that the “fable” – the Strong Minimalist Thesis – appears to have considerable validity. A number of striking and puzzling properties of FL – “universals of language” in the contemporary sense – have been shown to derive from the simplest computational operation, Merge, along with conditions of computational efficiency that are in effect part of natural law. And as anticipated, they do indeed impose communicative inefficiency.
Diet Quality and Mental Health Amongst Acute Inpatient Psychiatric Patients.

This is the first study that explored the self-reported dietary habits of acute psychiatric inpatients. We found that 75% of the psychiatric inpatients have an unhealthy diet, which correlates with higher body mass index (BMI) and lower education level. We also found an increased sugar consumption in inpatients with schizophrenia. The link between nutrition and mental health has been explored to a limited extent owing to the cumbersome nature of conducting research that involves specific dietary intervention and follow up. Yet, there is existing literature linking poor diet with impaired mental health and poor recovery from depression, amongst other disorders. Good nutrition can be exemplified with diets like the Mediterranean diet with a focus on certain food groups that provide the nutrients linked to neurotransmitters and a fairly new concept of the gut-brain axis. A Mediterranean-style dietary intervention supplemented with fish oil improves diet quality and mental health in people with depression. A randomised controlled trial published in the nutritional neuroscience journal yielded a positive outcome and improvement in the overall well-being of the patients enrolled. We explored the dietary habits of acute inpatients. After gathering a detailed diet history, their food habits were compared to a Mediterranean dietary index to assess their dietary patterns. Additionally, variables such as socio-economic characteristics, physical activity, income, BMI, and educational achievement were taken into consideration, with the intention to understand the effect of these factors on a diet consumed by acute patients and the relationship of the diet with their mental wellbeing. Ultimately, this study aims at an important aspect of preventive mental health, i.e., improved dietary habits (e.g., Mediterranean diet) may contribute to more rapid symptoms resolution and acute stabilization on a short-stay inpatient unit.
Edelman's Steps Toward a Conscious Artifact

In 2006, during a meeting of a working group of scientists in La Jolla, California at The Neurosciences Institute (NSI), Gerald Edelman described a roadmap towards the creation of a Conscious Artifact. As far as I know, this roadmap was not published. However, it did shape my thinking and that of many others in the years since that meeting. This short paper, which is based on my notes taken during the meeting, describes the key steps in this roadmap. I believe it is as groundbreaking today as it was more than 15 years ago.
Enhanced recombinant expression and purification of human IRAP for biochemical and crystallography studies.

Insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) in humans is a membrane bound enzyme that has multiple functions. It was first described as a companion protein of the insulin-responsive glucose transporter, Glut4, in specialized vesicles. The protein has subsequently been shown to be identical to the oxytocinase/aminopeptidase or the angiotensin IV (Ang IV) receptor (AT4 receptor). Some AT4 ligand peptides, such as Ang IV and LVV-hemorphin-7, have been shown to act as IRAP inhibitors that exert memory-enhancing properties. As such IRAP has been a target for developing cognitive enhancers. To facilitate detailed mechanistic studies of IRAP catalysis and inhibition, and to pave the way for biophysical and structural studies of IRAP in complex with peptide inhibitors, we report here an optimized expression and purification system using High Five insect cells. We also report biochemical characterizations of the purified recombinant IRAP with a standard aminopeptidase substrate and an optimized IRAP peptide inhibitor with a Ki of 98 nM.
Harnessing connected and automated vehicle technologies to control lane changes at freeway merge bottlenecks in mixed traffic

Abstract This paper proposes three control strategies for lane-changing (LC) at a merge bottleneck to improve bottleneck throughput by mitigating voids and speed disturbances in mixed traffic using connected and automated vehicle (CAV) technologies. Strategy 1 is ‘gap closure’ control, where an LC vehicle and its follower are controlled to close the void (extra time gap ahead) induced by the LC and prevent a backward-propagating speed disturbance. Strategy 2 is ‘batch LC’, where a group of LC vehicles are controlled to line up along a kinematic wave to minimize the total voids. Strategy 3 is ‘gap redistribution’ control, where extra gaps of vehicles are redistributed to periodically create large enough gaps for disturbance-free insertions. In a general control framework, the three strategies are integrated in different combinations exploiting their complementary nature. A numerical analysis shows that certain combinations, such as Strategy 2 and 3, can be very effective for improving bottleneck throughput. The analysis reveals insights on leveraging CAVs to develop traffic management strategies and/or policies and therefore improve system performance.
Left congenital diaphragmatic hernia and gastroschisis in a term male infant

A term male infant was born to a healthy 24-year-old mother with antenatally diagnosed liver-up, left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and gastroschisis. The infant was stabilised in the neonatal intensive care unit and then underwent primary repair of the CDH via left subcostal incision and silo placement for the gastroschisis. Serial silo reductions were started postoperatively and umbilical flap closure for the gastroschisis was performed on day of life 6. The patient was weaned from respiratory support, started on enteral feeds, and discharged home at 1 month of age. He was weaned from supplemental nasogastric feeds by 6 weeks of age and is currently well and thriving at 11 months of age.
Nocturnal Fat Oxidation and Metabolic Flexibility of Young Male Indian Adults Using Indirect Calorimetry

Indian adults tend to inappropriately accumulate body fat even at low Body Mass Index (BMI). Usually, fat that is stored in the fed state is mobilized for energy during nocturnal fasting, thus achieving daily fat balance. This is called metabolic flexibility, which may be lost in some individuals leading to body fat accumulation. Measuring fat balance requires 24h measurement of fat oxidation, but nocturnal fat oxidation could be a reasonable surrogate. The variability of nocturnal fat oxidation is also unknown. A retrospective analysis on 24h fat oxidation in adult men (n=18) was carried out to test the former hypothesis, while the variability of nocturnal fat oxidation was measured prospectively in 5 adult men, who were fed the same diet for 2 days prior to the measurement. Whole-body indirect calorimetry was used for measuring Respiratory Quotient (RQ), energy expenditure and fat oxidation. In 24h analyses, nocturnal (0.44 ± 0.21 g/kg) was significantly higher than diurnal fat oxidation (0.24 ± 0.21 g/kg) and was 64.5% of the total 24h value. Nocturnal fat oxidation was positively correlated with 24h fat oxidation (r = 0.937; p<0.01) and inversely correlated with 24h fat balance (r = -0.850; p<0.01). Metabolic flexibility, measured as the Fed: Fasted RQ ratio, was negatively correlated with BMI (r = -0.226; p=0.366). The intra- and inter-individual variability of 12h nocturnal fat oxidation was low, at 4.7% and 7.2%, respectively. Nocturnal fat oxidation has a low variability when prior diets over 2 days are constant and the Fed: Fasted RQ ratio is an index of metabolic flexibility, which relates to BMI in young adults.
Social Support as a Mediator of Anti-Bisexual Prejudice and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms

Among sexual minorities, bisexual individuals experience higher rates of victimization and symptoms of PTSD than their lesbian and gay peers as well as heterosexual individuals. Despite these disparities, little work has examined factors contributing to PTSD symptoms among bisexual adults. The current study examined the associations between bisexual-specific minority stress and PTSD symptoms in a sample of adults with bisexual orientation and tested social support as a potential mediator of this association. Participants were 488 adults (378 cisgender women, 49 cisgender men, 61 transgender individuals), ages 18 to 66 years, with bisexual orientation based on identity and/or attraction to multiple genders. Greater anti-bisexual prejudice was associated with greater PTSD symptoms (β = 0.16) and lower social support (β = -.16), while accounting for sociodemographics and sexual identity-based victimization. Social support was associated with lower PTSD symptoms (β = -.25), while accounting for sociodemographics, sexual identity-based victimization, and anti-bisexual prejudice. Mediation analyses indicated that anti-bisexual prejudice was indirectly associated with greater PTSD symptoms through lower social support. Addressing bisexual-specific minority stress and its role in diminishing social support for bisexual individuals represents a critical component of trauma-informed research and intervention development in the bisexual community.
Local Language Limitations

Copyright’s system of financial incentives is working well to encourage publishing in some languages, such as English and French, but not in all languages. The law should recognize this reality, and adjust the rules of copyright protection accordingly, creating different regulatory structures for different languages. Smaller markets will require different regulatory structures to unleash their publishing potential — particularly in those languages where the readers are very poor. This article suggests that this tailoring can be achieved through the use of “local language limitations” to copyright protection. According to this proposal, a national legislature identifies one or more specific local languages as underserved by the publishing industry. It then enacts a statutory limitation on copyright protection, which creates a bounded commons for material in those languages. By enabling permissionless translation, adaptation, and reproduction, local language limitations will drive down the cost of works in those languages to prices that are affordable to the very poor, while creating legal room for lower-cost translation and distribution models. This approach has four novel virtues. First, it takes advantage of language barriers to promote access for disadvantaged readers, without reducing the protection afforded to authors and publishers in more profitable markets. Second, it illustrates the potential of innovative, syncretic approaches to IP protection, beyond the “one size fits all” model. Third, it promotes reform of copyright law at the domestic level, rather than at the international level, where developing countries have power. Fourth, it enables “copyright experimentalism,” making it possible for researchers and policy makers to draw empirical lessons about the impact of copyright law on creativity based on real-world experience. The Article first introduces the problem of neglected languages of publishing and explains why there are good reasons to believe that loosening copyright rules will, in certain contexts, result in greater creativity as well as broader access. It then explains the proposal for local language limitations, exploring variations on the approach, identifying potential pitfalls, responding to objections, and recommending best practices. Finally, the article discusses the compatibility of local language limitations with international treaties on intellectual property and human rights.
Multiple Objective Step Function Maximization with Genetic Algorithms and Simulated Annealing

We develop a hybrid algorithm using Genetic Algorithms (GA) and Simulated Annealing (SA) to solve multi-objective step function maximization problems. We then apply the algorithm to a specific economic problem which is taken out of the corporate governance literature.
Tolerance to the hypothermic and hyperthermic effects of chlorpyrifos.

Abstract Hypothermia is a commonly reported thermoregulatory response in rodents acutely exposed to ogranophosphates (OP); however, our laboratory has recently found a delayed hyperthermic response following the initial hypothermia when exposed to the OP, chlorpyrifos. It is well known that rodents display tolerance to OP-induced hypothermia but little is known about tolerance to OP-induced hyperthermia. Twenty female rats of the Long-Evans strain were made tolerant to chlorpyrifos by administering 0 or 10 mg/g chlorpyrifos by gavage daily for four days. Core temperature (Tc) and motor activity (MA) were monitored continuously by telemetry. Twenty-four hours after the fourth 10 mg/kg injection, the animals were administered a challenge dose of 25 mg/kg chlorpyrifos or corn oil while the telemetry data were monitored for the next 72 h. Non-tolerant rats displayed an initial hypothermic response with reduced MA followed by a delayed increase in Tc 24 h after exposure. The tolerant animals displayed a blunted hypothermic response with virtually no change in MA, but a delayed increase in Tc similar to that of non-tolerant animals. The hyperthermic response of the non-tolerant animals persisted for two days, whereas the tolerant animals recovered by the second day. The data indicate that tolerance to the hypothermic and hyperthermic effects of chlorpyrifos involve separate neurochemical pathways.
The determination of pulp vitality by thermographic means using cholesteric liquid crystals: A preliminary study

Abstract Eight patients with ten anterior teeth suspected of having nonvital pulps were studied. The teeth in question were tested for vitality by measuring the surface temperature of each tooth with liquid crystals and noting the responses to cold and electrical stimulation. All ten of these teeth gave nonvital test responses. Six of the ten teeth exhibited surface temperatures lower than those of the control teeth, and opening of these teeth revealed nonvital pulps. The remaining four teeth exhibited surface temperatures either higher than or equal to those of the control teeth. Three of these have been opened, and granulation tissue or normal-appearing pulplike tissue was found filling at least the apical third of the canals. The results of this study indicate that thermography is a useful addition to the usual diagnostic techniques for the determination of pulp vitality.
Drug–Nucleic Acid Interactions

The sections in this article are 1 Introduction 2 Reversible DNA Complexes: Intercalators 3 Reversible DNA Complexes: Minor-Groove Interactions 4 Covalent DNA Complexes 5 Overview 6 Biographical Sketch Related Articles
Political Agendas for Education: From Race to the Top to Saving the Planet

Amidst the transition from No Child Left Behind (NCLB) to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), the book, Political Agendas for Education: From Race to the top to saving the planet by Joel Spring has discussed issues such as the impact of Race to the Top, the influence of Teach for America (TFA), teacher evaluation and merit pay, Republican reaction and rejection of Race to the Top and the education agenda of the Obama administration, and the benefits reaped by the growing for-profit industry on the United States (U.S.) education system. Simultaneously, the 5th edition has comparatively analyzed Libertarian and Green Party agendas along with the main stream political agendas which have dominated education in the U.S. Furthermore, this book has highlighted aspects of education reform which emphasize environmental sustainability, social and educational equity and freedom with the goal of human and societal health and wellbeing.
Effect of carbohydrates on estimated hepatic blood flow

Recent experiments suggest that propranolol taken orally with a carbohydrate-rich meal increases its apparent bioavailability by reducing first-pass metabolism. It has been postulated that this increase in bioavailability may be secondary to a transient increase in hepatic blood flow (QH). To examine this hypothesis, we examined the effect of one of the carbohydrate meals (potato) tested in other propranolol studies on QH by measuring blood clearance (ClB) of indocyanine green (ICG). Ten minutes after eating 200 gm cooked potato, mean ICG blood clearance (ClB) in six subjects rose by 12% (range –13% to +41%). There also was a 10% mean increase (range –13% to +23%) in ICG ClB 60 min after the meal. It was then postulated that a larger carbohydrate meal might induce a more consistent and substantial increase in ICG ClB; therefore, five of the subjects were restudied after 400 gm potato. The increase in ICG ClB was of the order of that after 200 gm. Changes in QH of this magnitude would be expected to make a negligible contribution to the mean 50% increase in propranolol bioavailability reported by several investigators. It thus appears that factors other than change in QH play a dominant role in the reduced first-pass metabolism of propranolol after a meal rich in carbohydrates. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1984) 35, 660–665; doi:10.1038/clpt.1984.91
Taylor towers for functors of additive categories

Abstract Given a functor F: A → B of additive categories, we construct a tower of functors … → PnF → Pn − 1F → Pn − 2F → … → P1F → F(0). We show that each PnF is degree n up to chain homotopy and, under certain assumptions, approximates F in a range that grows with n. We compare our Taylor tower with Goodwillie's Taylor tower for a functor of spaces and establish conditions under which they are equivalent. This is a continuation of work by Johnson and McCarthy (to appear).
Assessing Developmental Potential in Gifted Children: A Comparison of Methods.

Overexcitability is a term used to describe five forms of heightened experiencing that contribute to the developmental potential of gifted children. Two alternative means of assessing overexcitabilities were examined: questionnaire and interview. It was hypothesized that the interview, offering the possibility for probing and clarification of responses, would yield richer response material than the questionnaire. Contrary to expectations, the interview did not yield higher overexcitability scores. In two separate comparisons of the questionnaire and interview, similar results were obtained for four of the five forms of overexcitability. Correlations between questionnaire and interview scores were too low to consider the methods equivalent for making individual assessments. Older children, ages 12–14, scored higher than younger ones, ages 9–11. Most of those in the younger group had difficulty writing their answers; therefore, the interview is recommended for children below age 12.
Utility of ultrasound to assess risk of fracture.

Traditional assessments of bone properties have utilized densitometry techniques such as Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA). Recently, quantitative ultrasound (QUS) has been introduced as an alternative method of assessing bone properties. Advantages of QUS over X-ray techniques include low costs, portability, and nonionizing radiation. Proponents of QUS have claimed that this technology can provide information not only about the density but also about the structure and mechanical properties of bone. There are two major questions that need to be answered for those who seek to diagnose bone disorders with ultrasound: (1) what does quantitative ultrasound actually measure, and, even more importantly, (2) what is its clinical utility? In this review we will briefly examine the first question and will focus on the utility of ultrasound in clinical trials to discriminate between fractures and non-fractures and to predict the risk of fractures. J Am Geriatr Soc 45:1382–1394, 1997.
Borrelia burdgorferi Infection in Wisconsin Horses and Cows

Blood samples from Wisconsin horses and cows suspected of having clinical disease due to Borrelia burgdorferi infection were submitted by veterinary practitioners. All serum, milk, colostrum, and synovial samples were tested for B. burgdorferi antibodies by immunofluorescence. Whole blood, milk, colostrum, and synovial fluid samples were cultured for B. burgdorferi. Records were kept on the clinical signs of antibody-positive animals, date of sample, and location of the animal by county. Of the samples tested for antibodies 282/430 cow sera, 118/190 horse sera, 5/10 cow synovial fluids, 3/6 horse synovial fluids, 2/3 cow colostrums, 0/44 cow milk samples and 1 aborted fetus serum were antibody positive at a titer of 1:128 or greater. Of samples cultured 7/156 cow bloods, 2/35 horse bloods, 1/14 cow synovial fluids, 0/4 synovial fluids, 1/3 cow colostrums, 0/44 cow milk, and 2/10 cow urine samples were B. burgdorferi culture positive. For both cows and horses October and May were the two peak months for the number of antibody-positive samples. The most frequent clinical signs in antibody-positive horses and cows were lameness and swollen joints, but many also had stiffness, laminitis, abortions, and fevers. Not all antibody-positive animals showed clinical signs. These findings show that B. burgdorferi infection occurs in horses and cows and can cause clinical illness in some but not all animals. Infection in cows and horses occurs most frequently 1 month after the emergence of adult I. dammini. Because spirochetes could be isolated from blood, synovial fluid, colostrum, and urine, these animals could be important in providing an infected blood meal for ticks and bringing B. burgdorferi in direct contact with humans.
Type II Translation: Transporting Prevention Interventions From Research to Real-World Settings.

This article summarizes research on Type II translation of prevention interventions aimed at enhancing the adoption of effective programs and practices in communities. The primary goal of Type II translation is to institutionalize evidence-based programs, products, and services. First, the authors describe theoretical frameworks that are useful to guide Type II translation research. Second, research on prevention program implementation, including fidelity of implementation and factors that are associated with successful program implementation, is summarized. The authors describe interventions designed to enhance the dissemination of preventive interventions in community and public health settings. Third, they describe strategies used by prevention program developers who have taken programs to scale. Fourth, they present a case example of Project Towards No Drug Abuse (TND), an empirically validated high school–based substance abuse prevention program. They describe ongoing research on the dissemination of Project TND. Finally, they provide suggestions for future Type II translation research.
Interpreting the Cone Beam Data Volume for Occult Pathology

Although digital x-ray adoption has been slow over the 20 years since its introduction, cone beam volumetric imaging (CBVI) or cone beam volumetric tomography (CBVT) has been employed very rapidly. Dentists will not replace all panoramic or intraoral procedures with CBVT, but the images and image data produced by this modality will help dentists perform many dental tasks more efficiently and confidently, tasks such as implant site assessment, visualizing temporomandibular joint structures and impaction problems among others. In short, dentistry, like medicine, will select the appropriate imaging modality for a specific diagnostic task—instead of trying to make one modality fit all tasks. Images and data sets will be moved between clinicians and laboratories rapidly and efficiently for diagnosis, second opinion, and even model and surgical guide construction as well as orthodontic models. Orthodontic analyses will eventually be performed with more accuracy in three-dimensional (3D) and 4D formats. This article attempts to predict in a limited way some of the imaging "standards of care" that will arise from the latest advancements in imaging and inform the reader of some issues yet to be resolved.
Sphaeromyxa maiyai sp. n. (Protozoa: Myxosporidea), Coelozoic Parasite of the Pacific Tomcod, Microgadus proxiimus*

SYNOPSIS. Sphaeromyxa maiyai sp. n. (Myxosporidea: Myxiidae) is described from the gall bladder of the Pacific tomcod Microgadus proximus Girard, from Newport, Oregon. The plasmodial stage is discoid averaging between 1 and 2 cm. The spore averages 27.6 × 5.6 μm in breadth, with pyriform polar capsules measuring 9.3 × 3.7 μm. Scanning electron microscopy reveals the presence of numerous longitudinal striations.
Major histocompatibility complex genes, symmetry, and body scent attractiveness in men and women

Previous research indicates that the scent of developmental stability (low fluctuating asymmetry, FA) is attractive to women who are fertile (at high-conception risk points in their menstrual cycles), but not to other women or men. Prior research also indicates that the scent of dissimilarity in major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes may play a role in human mate choice. We studied the scent attractiveness to the opposite sex of t-shirts worn for 2 nights' sleep. Our results indicate that the two olfactory systems are independent. We repeated previous results from studies of the scent of symmetry. We repeated previous results from MHC research in part; men, but not women, showed a preference for t-shirts with the scent of MHC dissimilarity. Women's scent ratings of t-shirts were uncorrelated with the wearer's MHC dissimilarity and allele frequency, but positively correlated with the wearer's MHC heterozygosity. Fertile women did not exhibit any MHC trait preferences. Women's preference for the scent of men who were heterozygous for MHC alleles may be stronger in women who are at infertile cycle points. Men preferred the scent of common MHC alleles, which may function to avoid mates with rare alleles that exhibit gestational drive. Men also preferred the scent of women at fertile cycle points. The scent of facially attractive women, but not men, was preferred. Neither FA nor facial attractiveness in either sex correlated with MHC dissimilarity to others, MHC heterozygosity, or MHC allelic rarity. Copyright 2003.
AUTOMATED TEMPERATURE SCANNING FOR HYPERTHERMIA TREATMENT MONITORING

Ideal descriptors of hyperthermia treatments will most likely depend on complete target temperature distributions. Although these distributions can be modeled numerically, the accuracy of models is limited by the sparseness of temperatures measured in vivo. Thus, the strategy of monitoring temperatures may play a key role in improving hyperthermia therapy. Scanning temperatures by manual translations of thermometers was found to be excessively time consuming. Consequently an automated system was developed consisting of linear actuators, outriggers, guide tubes, thermometry catheters, personal computer, and dedicated hardware and software. During treatments, scan patterns were created with algorithms using temperatures measured preceding each thermometer translation. Measurement position had a noteworthy influence on thermal dose estimated by current models. Relative to manual scanning, automated scanning increased measurement efficiency, reduced probe position uncertainty, reduced operator time, and provided improved data for modeling bioheat transfer and thermal dose.
Role of kinases and the phosphatase calcineurin in the nuclear shuttling of transcription factor NF-AT4

A new facet of calcium signalling involves the nuclear import of the NF-AT transcription factors from their dormant position in the cytoplasm. The protein phosphatase calcineurin appears to play an essential role in activating NF-AT nuclear import, as the calcineurin inhibitors cyclosporin A and FK506 block dephosphorylation and nuclear import of NF-AT (refs 4-7). Here we show that calcium signalling induces an association between NF-AT4 and calcineurin, and that these molecules are transported, as a complex, to the nucleus, where calcineurin continues to dephosphorylate NF-AT4. We propose that a nuclear complex of NF-AT4 and calcineurin maintains calcium signalling by counteracting a vigorous nuclear NF-AT kinase.
Elevator talk: observational study of inappropriate comments in a public space

OBJECTIVES : We conducted a study to determine the type and frequency of inappropriate comments made by hospital employees while riding hospital elevators. METHODS : Four observers rode in elevators at five hospitals, listening for any comments made by hospital employees that might be deemed inappropriate. All potentially inappropriate comments were reviewed by the research team and were classified as inappropriate if they met at least one of the following criteria : violated patient confidentiality, raised concerns about the speaker's ability or desire to provide high-quality patient care, raised concerns about poor quality of care in the hospital (by persons other than the speaker), or contained derogatory remarks about patients or their families. RESULTS : We observed 259 one-way elevator trips offering opportunity for conversation. We overheard a total of 39 inappropriate comments, which took place on 36 rides (13.9% of the trips). The most frequent comments (18) were violations of patient confidentiality. Next most frequent (10 comments) were unprofessional remarks in which clinicians talked about themselves in ways that raised questions about their ability or desire to provide high-quality patient care. Other comments included derogatory statements about the general quality of hospital care (8) and derogatory remarks about patients (5). Physicians were involved in 15 of the comments, nurses in 10, and other hospital employees in the remainder. CONCLUSION : Inappropriate comments took place with disturbing frequency in the elevator rides we sampled. These comments did not exclusively involve violations of patient confidentiality, but encompassed a range of discussions that health care employees must be careful to avoid.
In vivo effects of dialyzable leukocyte lysates (DLL): Changes in the responses of murine spleen cells to T- and B-cell mitogens, spleen weight, and morphology of splenic tissue☆

Abstract The effect of human and murine dialyzable leukocyte lysates (HDLL and MDLL) on the reticuloendothelial system was studied. The feasibility of using the inbred mouse as an animal model was investigated. Depending on the quantity of HDLL injected, there were changes in both the T- and B-dependent areas of murine spleens 24 hr postinjection. HDLL injection resulted in a significant decrease in the spleen weight of mice which was detectable 1 week postinjection. Differences in the response to PHA, ConA, and LPS by cells obtained from HDLL and MDLL recipients were also observed within 24 hr after injection of DLL. The changes in response to T- and B-cell mitogens in vitro varied with the concentration of DLL injected. The effects of individual HDLL pools on the response to the mitogens were unique. The HDLL pools were also shown to differ in composition, and this difference may reflect the variation in the effects observed among the individual HDLL pools. These data suggest that DLL may affect the organization and distribution of cells in at least one reticuloendothelial organ, the spleen. It is not known if the component(s) in DLL that caused these effects is related to the component capable of transferring delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) responses.
Energy dependence of 12C+12C single-neutron transfer cross sections☆

Abstract The one-neutron transfer reaction induced by 25, 35 and 50 MeV/nucleon 12 C beams on a 12 C target has been studied. The observed angular distributions for the 13 C g.s - 11 C g.s. final state agree in shape and magnitude with predictions of the exact finite- range distorted wave Born approximation. Above roughly 30 MeV/nucleon, the angel integrated cross section falls off with an approximately exponential slope in accordance with the expectations of the reaction dynamics at high bombarding energies.
Corynebacterium minutissimum bacteremia in a patient with chronic myeloid leukemia in blast crisis

Abstract Serious infections and sepsis due to nondiphtheria Corynebacteria have been well described. A patient with chronic myeloid leukemia in blast crisis, who developed Corynebacterium minutissimum bacteremia, is described in this report. Corynebacterium minutissimum is the causative agent of erythrasma and to our knowledge, this is the first published report of septicemia due to this organism.
Cytologic evaluation of image-guided fine needle aspiration biopsies via robotic microscopy: A validation study.

Background: This study carried out was to assess the feasibility of using robotic microscopy (RM) for cytologic evaluation of direct smears from fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). Methods: Three board-certified cytopathologists reviewed representative direct smears from 40 image-guided FNABs using RM and subsequently re-reviewed the same smears using conventional microscopy. Adequacy of the smears and cytologic diagnosis, as determined using the two approaches, were compared for each individual cytopathologist (intraobserver) and between the three cytopathologists (interobserver). The intraobserver and interobserver discrepancies were analyzed and discussed in a follow-up consensus conference. Results: For assessment of adequacy, there were high concordance rates (intraobserver: 92.5-97.5%; interobserver: 90-92.5%), with a few discrepancies involving distinctions between suboptimal and satisfactory smears. Analysis of diagnostic interpretations showed correct classification of 92.5-95% (intraobserver) or 90-92.5% (interobserver) of benign and malignant cases combined, with the discrepancies being between benign and atypical cells in the benign group, and between suspicious and malignant in the malignant group. Within the malignant group, 94% of cases were accurately subclassified via RM. The quality of images viewed by using RM was rated adequate (fair or good) for 95% of the slides. Conclusions: The results demonstrate that cytologic evaluation of direct smears from FNABs using RM is feasible. Problems encountered included the longer times needed to evaluate cases with thick, bloody smears and/or low numbers of diagnostic cells, and difficulties in recognizing neuroendocrine differentiation and mimics of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Stripping of two nucleons with exchange effects

Abstract El Nadi and El Khishin have analysed stripping reactions of the type (He 3 , p) and (t, p) where exchange effects may play a role. We repeat their analysis, incorporating an important modification pointed out by Newns.
Thyroid hormone in neural rescue.

Serum thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), and reverse triiodothyronine (rT3) were followed for 24 h in dogs resuscitated following 9 min of controlled cardiac arrest (CA). Total T4, free T4, total T3, and free T3 decreased, while reverse T3 was elevated in the 24 h following resuscitation. Similar changes occurred with only 30 sec of CA. Levothyroxine sodium (L-T4) post-CA (7.5 μg/kg/h = CA + 7.5 or 15 μg/kg/h = CA + 15) increased total T4, free T4, and total T3. Free T3 decreased in the CA + 7.5 group but did not fall in CA + 15 group. Neurologic function improved significantly by 6 through 24 h (p < 0.05). Follow-up studies infusing T3 or rT3 failed to improve neurologic outcome. Systemic oxygen consumption (Vo2) and delivery was assessed in a separate group of seven dogs that received a pre-CA L-T4 infusion of 15 μ ug/kg/h for 1.5 h and L-T4 infusion for 6 h afterward while controls (n = 7) received saline. Systemic Vo2, VCO2, and RQ were calculated from blood contents and cardiac output and serum l...
Collaboration as a strategy for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome prevention.

Abstract An eight-session training model used a social interactive framework to combine theoretical and methodological aspects of peer counseling, cross-cultural communication, and transcultural nursing, with a conviction that the participants (volunteers from an ongoing, urban methadone maintenance program) had significant strengths on which to build. The objective was to assist urban, drug dependent black women in taking control of their own lives through collaboration with health care professionals to develop and promote culturally acceptable behavioral alternatives related to reduction of risk for human immunodeficiency virus. The collaborative approach focused on rewards of behavioral change and minimized attention to prevention of negative behaviors, while openly valuing input from the women who are potential health promoters in their own communities. Evaluation of the Peer Counseling Leadership Training Program suggested that the approach facilitated personal risk-reducing behavioral change, improved self esteem, and successfully promoted involvement in community-based prevention efforts
Elastic stability of columns on partial elastic foundations under subtangential loading

Divergence and flutter instability of a cantilevered beam on a partial elastic foundation subjected to a subtangential load at the free end are investigated. The dependence of divergence and flutter critical loads on the tangency coefficient is studied parametrically to illustrate the effects of the extent, position, and modulus of the partial foundation. Particular attention is paid to the stabilizing and destabilizing effects of the various parameters.
Compression of Microcapsules I: Effect of Excipients and Pressure on Drug Release

AbstractMicrocapsules containing phenylpropanolamine-resin complexes were compressed with various diluents. Compression of microcapsules produced an increase in the release rate. An average reduction of 0.50 hours was observed when Emdex or Fast Flo Lactose were compared to Avicel at various pressures (35 to 281 MPa). Increasing the amount of microcapsules in the formulation reduced the T50% with all three diluents
The mutagenic potential of unexcised pyrimidine dimers in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, rad1-1: evidence from photoreactivation and pedigree analysis.

Abstract Photoreactivation and pedigree analysis have been combined to show that unexcised pyrimidine dimers in the DNA of rad 1-1 yeast can initiate mutagenesis after passing through several DNA replications. Monomerisation of dimers immediately before the second replication to follow UV has no effect on mutants appearing after the first post-UV cell division but reduces second-generation mutants to one third of their frequency in the dark and has a similar through slightly less marked effect on mutants appearing in the third or subsequent generations. The bearing of these findings on the mechanism of UV mutagenesis is discussed.
A new long range proximity effect in chemically amplified photoresist processes: chemical flare

Anomalous linewidth variations of tens of nanometers have been observed for certain chemically amplified resist processes, a phenomenon we call chemical flare. These variations are highly undesirable, since they fall outside the scope of normal OPC corrective action. Experimental data is presented which clarifies the magnitude and range of chemical flare for two different 193nm resist processes. We observed that very weak background exposure, less than half the dose required to clear the resist, can have profound effects when chemical flare is strong. A TARC coating was found to completely eliminate chemical flare. In the absence of a first principles understanding of this phenomenon, we demonstrate simple screening tests for assessing resist processes.
Mirtazapine: treatment of depression, anxiety, and hyperemesis gravidarum in the pregnant patient. A report of 7 cases

Objective: Though selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors have been studied in pregnancy (Gupta, 1998), there is little information on the efficacy and safety of mirtazapine (Remeron®), a central alpha-2 blocker for treatment of depression and anxiety in pregnancy. Since mirtazapine blocks the 5HT-3 receptor postsynaptically, like ondansetron (Zofran®) but unlike any other antidepressant, there is reason to believe that mirtazapine may be of great use in treating not only depression and anxiety in pregnancy but also nausea and the more severe condition, hyperemesis gravidarum. Method: Seven cases are reviewed in which mirtazapine was given in pregnancy for hyperemesis and depression. Five patients were treated as outpatients. Two patients were begun on mirtazapine as inpatients already on transparenteral nutrition, one having had a negative reaction to ondansetron and metoclopramide. Results: All patients demonstrated improvement of depressed mood, and reduced nausea and vomiting. All seven babies were born at term, each with APGAR scores of 7 or 8 at one minute, 9 at five minutes. Conclusions: Mirtazapine may prove a valuable treatment in pregnancy for depression, anxiety and/or hyperemesis, based on its dual action (serotonin and norepinephrine), efficacy in treating depression, and antagonism of 5HT-3. Further studies of its potential therapeutic use in pregnancy are warranted.
Injuries to rescue workers following the Oklahoma City bombing

The objective of this study was to identify and describe physical injuries to rescue workers in the aftermath of the Oklahoma City bombing. Data were obtained from medical records from 16 hospital emergency departments and specialty clinics in the Oklahoma City area, and reported visits to medical providers at the bombing site. Participants were rescue personnel from the Oklahoma City Fire Department, the mutual aid fire stations in the Oklahoma City area, the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Urban Search and Rescue teams, and military personnel stationed near Oklahoma City. All participants were involved in the rescue and recovery operation. The two main outcome measures were (1) the number, types, and rates of injuries; and (2) comparisons of case-finding methods, including medical chart review and telephone interview. The most common injuries were strains and sprains (21.4%), foreign bodies in eyes (14.5%), and laceration/crush/puncture wounds (18.4%). Of the four case-finding mechanisms, telephone interviews following the event identified the largest number of cases (84.5%). Most injuries were minor; some injuries such as chemical burns were preventable. The potential utility of other data collection mechanisms is considered.
Examining the implications of the Heritage Health Index

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to report on the findings and implications of the Heritage Health Index.Design/methodology/approach – Description of survey conception, purpose, methodology, and the implications of selected results.Findings – The 2005 Heritage Health Index (HHI) provides a sobering assessment of cultural heritage resources in the United States. A large percentage of the 4.8 billion artifacts in more than 30,000 archives, libraries, museums, historical societies, scientific research institutions and archaeological repositories are in sub‐optimal environmental conditions. At least a quarter are poorly cataloged. The HHI does not propose actions to alter this situation, but the author outlines four suggestions to assist weaker repositories and collections. These are: extend the mentorship model from individuals to organizations; provide greater incentives for collaborations between weaker and stronger institutions; investigate ways to take advantage of cooperative cataloging; and creat...
Scaling Scala at Twitter

Rockdove is the backend service that powers the geospatial features on Twitter.com and the Twitter API ("Twitter Places"). It provides a datastore for places and a geospatial search engine to find them. To throw out some buzzwords, it is:•a distributed system•realtime (immediately indexes updates and changes)•horizontally scalable•fault tolerantRockdove is written entirely in Scala and was developed by 2 engineers with no prior Scala experience (nor with Java or the JVM). We think the geospatial search engine provides an interesting case study as it presents a mix of algorithm problems and "classic" scaling and optimization issues. We will report on our experience using Scala, focusing especially on:•"functional" systems design•concurrency and parallelism•using a "research language" in practice•when, where and why we turned the "functional dial"•avoiding mutable state