cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Examining the Generalization of a Combined Independent and Interdependent Group Contingency for Students With Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

Using an ABAB withdrawal design, the study evaluated the direct and generalized effects of a combined independent and interdependent group contingency on the engagement and disruptive behavior of t...
A systematic review of therapeutic regimens for older patients with newly diagnosed Hodgkin lymphoma.

Classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) in older adults is associated with inferior outcomes and increased toxicity compared to younger patients. Novel therapies like brentuximab vedotin (BV) have yielded...
COMPARISON OF CORONARY CALCIUM SCORE AND POOLED COHORT RISK ASSESSMENT SCORE IN NATIVE AMERICANS VS. NON-NATIVE AMERICANS

Patients of Native American descent have generally higher overall cardiovascular risk. Both coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring and the pooled cohort risk assessment (PCRA) score can be used to estimate cardiovascular disease risk. The purpose of this study was to compare the difference in CAC and
The Arc of Complex Global Governance: From Organization to Coalition

Complex governance challenges the state- and IGO-centric focus in the study of global governance as well as its rational functionalist theoretical perspective. Complex global governance displays a common life cycle across issue areas that have become prominent in the post-Cold War decades: global health, climate change, and efforts to combat illicit financial flows. A transnational coalition expands the agenda of the complex through a political process that advances new issues and widens the agenda's scope. Although national governments and IGOs maintain important roles, resources available to the complex diversify. Governance complexes are able to target behavioral change in actors rather than relying on national governments and their compliance. A common pattern of evolution is enabled by economic and political globalization. Introducing this comparative and dynamic approach to complex global governance permits generalization that is often lacking in distributive approaches to international institutions.
The sensitivity of graphic trends in differentiating sinus and supraventricular tachycardia.

Abstract Background The use of cardiac telemetry in the inpatient setting is widespread and has become integral in managing hospitalized patients. Telemetry is used to monitor patients with brady- and tachyarrhythmias. While most of the focus is on the rhythm strip data, a significant utility remains in analyzing the graphic heart rate trends. We specifically focused on the shape of the curve (rectangle or bell) of the heart rate over time to differentiate sinus tachycardia (ST) and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). We hypothesized that identifying the shape of the graphic trend would improve the accuracy of diagnosis. Methods To demonstrate the simplicity of employing this method for improving the diagnosis of arrhythmia, we had senior medical students evaluate the telemetry strips and graphical trends. We gathered data from the medical student interpretation of 82 strips of in-hospital cardiac telemetry and asked them to differentiate ST and SVT based on the shape of the graphic trend. Each rhythm strip and the graphic trend was interpreted by two clinical cardiac electrophysiology attending physicians and confirmed on a 12‑lead electrocardiogram. Results When students were asked to choose between ST and SVT based on the telemetry rhythm strip without graphic trends, 73% of their answers were correct. Diagnostic accuracy improved to 96% correct with the addition of the graphic trend. Depending on the telemetry rhythm strip alone, sensitivity to detect SVT was 75%, with 68% specificity. With the addition of the graphical trend, sensitivity improved to 98% and specificity 100%. Conclusion Review of graphical trends, specifically the analysis of onset and offset, allows novice ECG readers to improve the ability to distinguish between ST and SVT.
Temperature and Strain Effects in Micro-Raman Thermometry for Measuring In-Plane Thermal Conductivity of Thin Films

Micro-Raman thermometry is an effective method for measuring thermal conductivity of thin films. It features noncontact and nondestructive probing and convenience of sample preparation. However, th...
Associations Between Neighborhood Park Access and Longitudinal Change in Cognition in Older Adults: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis.

Background Preliminary evidence suggests associations between neighborhood park access and better late-life cognition and reduced Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk. Objective Examine associations between neighborhood park access and longitudinal change in cognition among U.S. older adults without dementia. Methods We used 2000-2018 observational data from the population-based, multi-site Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (n = 1,733). Measures included proportion of neighborhood park space (park access), distance to nearest park, and 6-year dichotomous and continuous change in scores on the Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument (CASI; global cognition) and Digit Symbol Coding task (processing speed). Multivariable random intercept models tested main associations and mediation by depressive symptoms, physical activity, and PM2.5 exposure. Effect modification by race (African Americans/Blacks versus Whites) was tested using interaction terms. Results Greater park access (equivalent to 10%more in 1/2-mile around home) was associated with maintained/improved CASI score over six years independent of several covariates including individual- and neighborhood-level socioeconomic status (Odds ratio: 1.04; 95%confidence interval: 1.00-1.08). No other associations were observed with the dichotomous or continuous measures of cognitive change and no mediators were found. While a borderline association was seen between greater park access and maintained/improved CASI for African Americans/Blacks but not for Whites, effect modification was not confirmed by testing interaction terms. Conclusion Neighborhood park access may help maintain/improve late-life global cognition. However, our findings need replication in other population-based studies and regions. Additionally, studies are needed to determine if associations between park access and change in cognition vary by race/ethnicity to inform intervention efforts.
Gender, Sexuality, and Religious Education

More than a decade ago—in 2006 in the pages of this journal—Dr. Boyung Lee prophetically wrote that “unless one addresses the subject of sexuality, the discussion and movement of peace and justice ...
Crashing from cadaver to computer: Covid-driven crisis-mode pedagogy spawns active online substitute for teaching gross anatomy.

In early 2020, the Covid-19 crisis forced medical institutions worldwide to convert quickly to online platforms for content delivery. Although many components of medical education were adaptable to that format, anatomical dissection laboratory lost substantial content in that conversion, including features of active student participation, three-dimensional spatial relationships of structures, and the perception of texture, variation, and scale. The present study aimed to develop and assess online anatomy laboratory sessions that sought to preserve benefits of the dissection experience for first-year medical students. The online teaching package was based on a novel form of active videography that emulates eye movement patterns that occur during processes of visual identification, scene analysis, and learning. Using this video-image library of dissected materials, content was presented through asynchronous narrated laboratory demonstrations and synchronous/active video conference sessions and included a novel, video-based assessment tool. Data were obtained using summative assessments and a final course evaluation. Test scores for the online practical examination were significantly improved over those for previous in-person dissection-based examinations, as evidenced by several measures of performance (Mean: 2015-2019: 82.5%; 2020: 94.9%; P = 0.003). Concurrently, didactic test scores were slightly, but not significantly, improved (Mean: 2015-2019: 88.0%; 2020: 89.9%). Student evaluations of online sessions and overall course were highly positive. Results indicated that this innovative online teaching package can provide an effective alternative when in-person dissection laboratory is unavailable. Although this approach consumed considerable faculty time for video editing, further development will include video conference breakout rooms to emulate dissection small-group teamwork.
Stealth vaping among college students on four geographically distinct tobacco-free college campuses: prevalence and practices.

INTRODUCTION To offset tobacco use among college students, many universities have implemented tobacco-free campus policies. Given how easily e-cigarette users can discreetly vape in places where it is prohibited without being detected (i.e., stealth vape), it is important to assess whether students are subverting these policies. This study examined the prevalence of stealth vaping on-campus among students at multiple universities, including frequency and methods for stealth vaping. METHODS A convenience sample of college students was obtained from four geographically distinct, large, public universities with established policies prohibiting all forms of tobacco use on campus. Participants (N=863 current e-cigarette users) reported on demographics and e-cigarette use. Those who previously stealth vaped on-campus (n=422) completed additional questions, including common locations, techniques, and devices/e-liquids used for stealth vaping. RESULTS Nearly half (48.9%) of past 30-day e-cigarette users reported previously stealth vaping on-campus. Among stealth vapers, 48.1% owned a smaller device for stealth vaping and 38.9% used e-liquids with low visibility vapors. Common on-campus stealth vaping locations included bathrooms, libraries, parking garages, and classrooms. Techniques used for stealth vaping included deep inhale, blowing a hit into one's clothes, and swallowing a hit. CONCLUSIONS A large percentage of respondents commonly violated campus tobacco-free policies by stealth vaping. For such policies to be effective at reducing on-campus e-cigarette use, there is a need for enhanced monitoring and enforcement. More research is needed to better understand factors influencing stealth vaping behaviors and public health implications. IMPLICATIONS This sample of college student e-cigarette users commonly violated campus smoke- and tobacco-free policies by stealth vaping on campus. Respondents used a range of methods (e.g., smaller device, low visibility e-liquids) and locations (e.g., bathrooms, libraries, parking garages) for stealth vaping. If campus policies are to be effective at reducing on-campus e-cigarette use, there is a need for enhanced monitoring and enforcement. E-cigarette devices specifically designed and marketed to facilitate stealth vaping (e.g., resembling USB flash drives, pens, etc.) may require regulatory action. More research is needed to better understand factors influencing stealth vaping behaviors and public health implications.
Aerobic biodegradation of organic compounds in hydraulic fracturing fluids

Little is known of the attenuation of chemical mixtures created for hydraulic fracturing within the natural environment. A synthetic hydraulic fracturing fluid was developed from disclosed industry formulas and produced for laboratory experiments using commercial additives in use by Marcellus shale field crews. The experiments employed an internationally accepted standard method (OECD 301A) to evaluate aerobic biodegradation potential of the fluid mixture by monitoring the removal of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from an aqueous solution by activated sludge and lake water microbial consortia for two substrate concentrations and four salinities. Microbial degradation removed from 57 % to more than 90 % of added DOC within 6.5 days, with higher removal efficiency at more dilute concentrations and little difference in overall removal extent between sludge and lake microbe treatments. The alcohols isopropanol and octanol were degraded to levels below detection limits while the solvent acetone accumulated in biological treatments through time. Salinity concentrations of 40 g/L or more completely inhibited degradation during the first 6.5 days of incubation with the synthetic hydraulic fracturing fluid even though communities were pre-acclimated to salt. Initially diverse microbial communities became dominated by 16S rRNA sequences affiliated with Pseudomonas and other Pseudomonadaceae after incubation with the synthetic fracturing fluid, taxa which may be involved in acetone production. These data expand our understanding of constraints on the biodegradation potential of organic compounds in hydraulic fracturing fluids under aerobic conditions in the event that they are accidentally released to surface waters and shallow soils.
Evaluation of Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb Under Fretting Conditions

The fretting behavior of Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb (y-TiAl) in contact with the nickel-base superalloy 718 was examined in air at temperatures from 296 to 823 K (23 to 550 C). The interfacial adhesive bonds between Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb and superalloy 718 were generally stronger than the cohesive bonds within Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb. The failed Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb debris subsequently transferred to the superalloy 718. In reference experiments conducted with Ti-6Al-4V against superalloy 718 under identical fretting conditions, the degree of transfer was greater for Ti-6A1-4V than for Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb. Wear of Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb generally decreased with increasing fretting frequency. The increasing rate of oxidation at elevated temperatures led to a drop in wear at 473 K. However, fretting wear increased as the temperature was increased from 473 to 823 K. At 723 and 823 K, oxide film disruption generated cracks, loose wear debris, and pits on the Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb wear surface. Both increasing slip amplitude and increasing load tended to produce more metallic wear debris, causing severe abrasive wear in the contacting metals.
Cross-border labor mobility: A critical assessment of WTO's GATS Mode 4 vis-à-vis regional trade agreements

Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to examine convergence of economic interests – both empirically and theoretically – among labor-abundant (labor-sending) and labor scarce (labor receiving) countries, in the context of Mode 4 of the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) of the WTO. The paper also explores regional trade associations as an interim alternative forum for promoting temporary cross-border labor mobility in the backdrop of failure of multilateral trade negotiations under the Doha Round. Design/methodology/approach – The research methodology of the paper involves literature review, an analysis of databases and theoretical findings, and a critical examination of pertinent empirical and secondary information on the subject matter. Findings – The findings reveal that although a convergence of economic interests seem to exist between the labor-sending and receiving countries for promoting cross-border labor mobility, this sector faces formidable trade and non-trade barriers across the wo...
Role of geomorphic and hydraulic parameters in governing pore water seepage from salt marsh sediments

[1] A numerical boundary integral equation model has been used to study the effects of marsh geomorphology and hydraulic parameters on the seepage of pore water into tidal channels and its subsequent recharge by tidal inundation. In general, the results show that regardless of the geomorphic configuration the locus of maximum seepage flux occurs at or near the intersection of the creek bank and the channel water surface. Over a tidal cycle, typically two thirds of the total seepage discharge occurs through the creek bank with only about a third discharging from the channel bottom. In most cases the volume of seepage discharging through the creek bank exceeds by a factor of two or more that emanating from the channel bottom. Of the creek bank discharge, up to half may occur through the seepage face that develops above the tide line at tidal stages below mean tide. The ratio of creek bank to bottom seepage only approaches unity when the thickness of the aquifer beneath the bottom is similar to or greater than the width of the channel bottom and the ratio of conductivity to specific yield exceeds 0.5. For given hydraulic parameters, total seepage volume varies directly with creek bank slope and aquifer thickness, whereas these factors are inversely related to the ratio of the two seepage components. Channel bottom width, on the other hand, has no influence on total seepage volume but greatly increases the component ratio as the width approaches zero. Since most of the seepage discharge is derived from sediments within several meters of the creek bank, variations in seepage discharge driven by variations in marsh geomorphology might play a role in the productivity of creekside cord grass. Several hypotheses are offered and discussed regarding the effects of geomorphology on creekside productivity. These results also indicate that placement of seepage meters only on the channel bottom will not give samples or measures representative of the total seepage.
Temperature dependence of the chiral vortical effects

We discuss the origins of temperature dependence of the axial vortical effect, i.e., generation of an axial current in a rotating chiral medium along the rotation axis. We show that the corresponding transport coefficient depends, in general, on the number of light weakly interacting degrees of freedom, rather than on the gravitational anomaly. We also comment on the role of low-dimensional defects in the rotating medium, and appearance of the chiral vortical effect due to them.
The impact of parents' medication beliefs on asthma management.

BACKGROUND. Previous studies suggest a relationship between parental beliefs about asthma medications and medication adherence. It is not clear how parents9 positive and negative feelings about medications interact to influence medication adherence. OBJECTIVES. The objectives of this study were to describe parents9 perceived need for and concerns about their child9s asthma medications and to assess the weighted impact of these positive and negative beliefs on parent-reported adherence. METHODS. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of parents of children with asthma in southeast Michigan; response rate was 71%. Children with reported use of a preventive asthma medication were included (n = 622). We used a validated Beliefs About Medications Questionnaire (2 subscales: necessity and concern) to assess parents9 positive and negative attitudes about their child9s medications. To measure how parents weigh these beliefs, we also calculated a necessity-concern differential score (difference between necessity and concern subscales). We used a 4-item parent-report scale to measure medication adherence. RESULTS. The majority of children were nonminority. Overall, 72% of parents felt that their child9s asthma medications were necessary, and 30% had strong concerns about the medications. For 77% of parents, necessity scores were higher than concern scores, and for 17%, concern exceeded necessity. Nonminority parents were more likely to have necessity scores exceed concern scores compared with minority parents (79% vs 68%). Mean adherence scores increased as the necessity-concern differential increased. In a multivariate mixed-model regression, a greater necessity-concern differential score and being nonminority predicted better adherence. CONCLUSIONS. These findings confirm a relationship between medication beliefs and adherence among parents of children with asthma. A better understanding of parents9 medication beliefs and their impact on adherence may help clinicians counsel effectively to promote adherence.
Helping Students Avoid Plagiarism

Although instructors frequently warn students not to plagiarize essays, issuing dire warnings about failing grades or even expulsion, plagiarism continues to be a problem. For many of us, plagiarism is a highly emotional issue. When we discuss it with our students, we often speak in outraged terms of "cheating," "theft," and "academic dishonesty." For some reason, a suspected instance of plagiarism can transform a caring, reflective teacher into an academic cop, judge, jury, and executioner. Even though there always will be dis honest students, most cases of plagia rism result from honest confusion over the standards of academic discourse and proper citation. We might more successfully combat the problem by spending more time in class helping students learn how to avoid it. Plagiarism remains a constant prob lem, in part, because it encompasses such a wide variety of errors in aca demic writing. In fact, plagiarism can be a difficult term to define for stu dents. Consider for a moment the fol lowing acts that we include under the general heading of plagiarism: Buying a paper from a research serv ice or term paper mill. Advertisements for companies selling term papers ap
Selective catalytic reduction of NO by H2 in O2 on Pt/BaO/Al2O3 monolith NOx storage catalysts☆

Abstract Comprehensive steady-state experiments of the selective catalytic reduction of NO on a series of Pt, Pt/BaO, and BaO monolithic catalysts have been carried out to evaluate the light-off, NO x conversion and product distribution features as a function of the feed composition, temperature and catalyst composition. The reaction between NO and H 2 produces a mixture containing N 2 O, NH 3 , and N 2 , the composition of which is a function of the catalyst temperature and NO/H 2 ratio in the feed. NO inhibits the reaction at low temperatures as revealed by light-off temperature and supporting kinetic data. NO x conversions were found to be complete at space velocities below 90,000 h −1 and above 100 °C for Pt loadings exceeding 1.27 wt.%. At low temperature and O 2 concentration the NO–H 2 reaction mainly produces N 2 O and is positive (negative) order in H 2 (NO). The light-off temperature of the NO–H 2 system is dictated by these kinetics as well as the Pt loading. Complementary theoretical analyses elucidate selected kinetic trends and the effect of Pt loading on the conversion versus temperature trends. The NO–H 2 –O 2 data are interpreted with a phenomenological reaction network model. Particular attention focused on the production and consumption of ammonia, a problematic byproduct during conventional NO x storage and reduction (NSR). NH 3 is a major product under O 2 deficient conditions typical of the rich pulse in NSR, while N 2 and N 2 O are the main products at higher O 2 concentrations (lean conditions). NH 3 oxidation ignites on Pt catalysts at 170–180 °C; in the ignited state a mixture of N 2 , NO, NO 2 and N 2 O is produced, the composition of which is sensitive to the NH 3 /O 2 feed ratio and temperature. Experiments involving a feed containing H 2 , NH 3 , and NO show complete H 2 conversion and negligible net NH 3 conversion. For temperatures exceeding 150 °C an equimolar mixture of the three components results in complete NO reduction by H 2 with negligible conversion of NH 3 . The decomposition of NH 3 is observed above 330 °C but is kinetically inhibited by H 2 . A comparison of the Pt and Pt/BaO catalysts reveals similar steady-state behavior. The BaO catalyst exhibited a non-negligible but lower activity and a different product distribution than the Pt and Pt/BaO catalysts.
On the correlation of analyses and tests of the inelastic flexural behavior of wide-flange steel beams

Abstract Aspects of numerical modeling which influence the correlation between tests and finite element analyses of the inelastic stability of wide-flange beams are discussed. Results from a series of fully non-linear shell finite element studies are compared to data from tests used to determine the inelastic rotation capacity of wide-flange steel beams. The modeling issues addressed include: (1) the distribution and magnitude of residual stresses, (2) imperfection sensitivity, in view of possible yield surface corner-type effects, (3) representation of the yield plateau and strain-hardening response of structural steel, and (4) the sensitivity to variations in the yield stress. Numerical problems encountered in the incremental-iterative analyses and the analysis strategies used to overcome these problems are also outlined. For the examples analyzed and the incremental-iterative solution approach employed, the experimental and the numerical results have been found, in general, to be in good agreement. It is shown through numerical studies that, for the particular examples considered, variations in the assumed residual stress pattern have practically no effect on the predicted rotation capacity. The representation of the yield plateau and variations in the magnitude of the initial imperfections only slightly affect the analysis results. Variations in the yield stress significantly change the model's flexural response, but they only slightly affect the predicted rotation capacity. It is shown that small errors in measurement of the yield stress can result in large changes of the rotation capacity calculated from experimental data.
Effect of Feeding Methione Hydroxy Analog on the Concentration of Protozoa in Rumen of Sheep

Abstract Two separate lots of 12 lambs were randomly assigned to 3 treatment groups of 4 sheep each. Groups received rations of grain alone, grain + methionine hydroxy analog or grain + hay with either urea or soybean oil meal as the primary nitrogen source. After a ration adjustment period of 3 weeks, rumen samples were obtained on 3 successive weeks. Protozoa concentration was significantly higher in the grain + methionine hydroxy analog-fed sheep (P
Comment on “Relationship between Introversion and Perceptual Accuracy” by Sorgatz and Lach

We are pleased that Sorgatz and Lach (1976) have considered our research (Fine & Kobrick, 1976) worthy of verification. While they are technically correct that we found introverts to be more accurate than extraverts in detecting targets, they have made no mention of the fact that we also found field-independent subjects more zccurate than fielddependent subjects and, of greater importance, that we found an interaction between the two personality dimensions which led us to state that "It is evident that the significant differences between the introverted and extraverted groups and between the field-dependent and fie!d-independent groups are anributable to the poorer accuracy of the field-dependent extraverted group." The data provided in our Table 1 showed this quite clearly. We had thought that the narrowing down of the locus of poor perceptual performance (whatever the underlying reason for it) from field-dependent or from extravert to fielddependent extravert was a step forward consistent with the goal of scientific explanation. It had been noted earlier (Fine, 1972) within the context of neuroticism that the results of smdies which have used either field-dependence or extraversion separately could bear re-examination in terms of the interactive effects of the two dimensions. Later work (Fine & Danforth, 1975; Fine & Kobrick, 1976) appears to support that contention for perception as well. Since they have not measured field-dependence in their subjects, Sorgatz and Lach cannot determine whether or not our results are valid. Clearly their subjects could have been predominantly field-independent, Within our field-independent groups, we have found no differences in accuracy of rod and frame performance (Fine & Danforth, 1975) or accuracy of target detection (Fine & Kobrick, 1976) between extraverts and introverts.
Eccentric May Differ From Concentric Left Ventricular Hypertrophy Because of Variations in Cardiomyocyte Numbers

Background: When overweight or hypertension is present, some patients at first examination exhibit left ventricular (LV) dilation and others concentric hypertrophy that persists indefinitely. Perhaps the ventricles with the fewest myocytes could enter systolic dysfunction with dilation and those with more myocytes may sustain persistent concentric hypertrophy. Methods and Results: Cardiomyocyte numbers, MyN, were counted in paraffin sections of left ventricles from 99 forensic autopsies, excluding instances of coronary heart disease. MyN lacked statistically significant relationships with age, race, sex, height, weight, LV mass, and mean arterial pressure estimated from renal histology. Specimens with the fewest myocytes, however, did manifest significant dilation and thinner chamber walls. Conclusions: The tendency toward an eccentric pattern of hypertrophy in ventricles with the fewest myocytes is a clear conclusion, but has an ambiguous interpretation. This is the pattern expected from the initial hypothesis, but it also has other possible explanations. This ambiguity arises chiefly from limitations in the methods used for estimating MyN. These limitations are accessible to control in future studies. Our findings failed to contradict the hypothesis introduced here. These conclusions are implicit in the underlying observations of MyN constancy across such groupings as sex, height, weight, and LV mass, which provide the less speculative findings. (J Cardiac Fail 2013;19:517e522)
An improved method for determination of uric acid in serum.

Abstract A method is described for the determination of uric acid in serum which is sufficiently precise and reliable to follow small changes at low levels. The advantage of the use in the acetate form of the anion exchange resin Dowex 2-X8 is pointed out. The influence of protein and other anion components of serum on the absorbance of uric acid and on its elution from the resin is noted. Normal values of serum uric acid in dogs as well as man, with sampling deviations, and reproducibility of the method at both levels is demonstrated.
Studies on insulin secretion in vitro from isolated islets of the rat pancreas.

Intact islets were isolated from the normal rat pancreas by the sedimentation technique and maintained in vitro. The islets did not destroy exogenous insulin added in vitro. Glucose in low concentrations (30 mg/100 ml) did not stimulate insulin secretion above base line values observed in the absence of glucose. High concentrations of glucose and mannose stimulated insulin secretion and the stimulatory action of glucose was inhibited by the addition of mannoheptulose. Galactose and fructose did not stimulate insulin release above base line values. Glucagon stimulated insulin secretion and the effect was enhanced in the presence of theophylline. Tolbutamide did not stimulate insulin secretion from isolated rat islets. However, a stimulatory effect of this agent was observed using isolated rabbit islets. The studies indicate that islets isolated by the sedimentation technique can be utilized for in vitro investigations of the direct effect of certain agents on insulin secretion. (Endocrinology 83: 1155, 1968)
Asthma and allergic rhinitis due to sensitization to phthalic anhydride: Report of a case

Abstract 1.1. The first case of asthma and allergic rhinitis found to be due to sensitivity to phthalic anhydride is reported. 2.2. An unusual feature of the case is the demonstration of circulating specific reagin to a substance of non-nitrogenous nature.
Abstract 510: Do adipocytes in the tumor microenvironment influence the growth of pancreatic cancer

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL Introduction: Pancreatic cancer develops more frequently and progresses more rapidly in obesity. The mechanisms influencing this association are incompletely understood. Using our murine model of pancreatic cancer in diet-induced obesity, we hypothesized that changes in the immune profile and tumor microenvironment may contribute to accelerated pancreatic cancer growth in obesity. Methods: Thirty male C57BL/6J mice were studied. At 5 weeks of age, 20 mice were fed high fat diet (60% fat; HFD) and 10 were fed low fat (10% fat) diet. At 19 weeks of age all mice were inoculated in the flank with 2.5 x105 Pan02 murine pancreatic cancer cells. After 5 weeks of tumor growth, spleens and tumors were collected, splenic flow cytometry evaluated lymphocyte population, proliferation was determined by PCNA staining, and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), both B and T, were scored by immunohistochemistry. Intratumoral adipocyte volume was assessed by H&E staining. Students's t-test and Pearson's correlation were applied where appropriate. P value <0.05 was accepted as statistically significant. Results: Mice were segregated into overweight (OW – heavier than the mean body weight of the HFD mice – 35.5g, n=15) and lean (<35.5g, n=14). OW mice were significantly heavier (37.3±0.2g vs. 33.9±0.3g, p<0.001). Tumors were twice as large in OW mice as in lean mice (1.23±0.2g vs. 0.6±0.1g; p=0.001). The peripheral lymphocyte profile was similar in both OW and lean animals (T cells: 51.2±2.5% vs. 49.2±2.3%, p=0.59; B cells: 32.9±1.0% vs. 32.0±1.9%, p=0.73). TIL were observed in similar numbers in both OW and lean groups (T cell: 1.31±0.18 vs. 1.54±0.16, p=0.35; B cell: 0.63±0.08 vs. 0.91±0.15, p=0.33). Tumor proliferation as measured by PCNA was similar in both groups (139±18 OW vs. 143±14 lean, p=0.85). Interestingly, adipocyte volume was significantly greater in the OW tumor microenvironment than in the lean tumors (3.7%±0.7 vs. 2.2%±0.3, p<0.05). Conclusions: These results demonstrate that: 1) tumor weight was significantly greater in OW mice; 2) peripheral and tumor infiltrating lymphocyte profile was similar in OW and lean animals; and 3) adipocyte volume was significantly greater in the tumor microenvironment of OW mice. We conclude that obesity accelerates the growth of pancreatic cancer, and adipocytes in the tumor microenvironment may directly influence tumor growth. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 510. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-510
A rapid method for the purification of RNA polymerase holoenzyme from Escherichia coli.

Abstract A method is described for the rapid purification of RNA polymerase holoenzyme from small amounts of Escherichia coli cells. Chromatography of a crude extract on a single-stranded DNA agarose column followed by gell filtration chromatography gave 95% pure holoenzyme. The enzyme kinetic characteristics on T7 DNA identical to those of RNA polymerase purified by other more laborious procedures.
Was Oddity Conspicuous in Prey Selection Experiments

MUELLER1 presented results of an extensive experiment designed to examine the effects of prey oddity, prey conspicuousness and specific searching image on selection of mice by two species of hawks. He concluded that oddity was more important than conspicuousness in prey selection. Other investigators have, however, demonstrated the effect of conspicuousness on prey selection2–5 when equal (no odd prey) numbers of two prey types (mice) were used. In addition, I found a significant positive correlation between effectiveness of selection by owls and degree of conspicuousness of the conspicuous prey (laboratory mice) in large pens with natural vegetation5. The contrast between the results of Mueller1 and others2–5 led me to question Mueller's experimental design for simultaneously testing selection of both odd and conspicuous prey by hawks.
Brief Report: High and Low Level Initiations of Joint Attention, and Response to Joint Attention: Differential Relationships with Language and Imitation

Frequency of high-level (showing/pointing) and low-level (coordinated gaze shifts) behaviors on the Early Social Communication Scales are often used as a measure of joint attention initiations (IJA). This study examined the degree to which these skills and response to joint attention (RJA; e.g. gaze following) were differentially related to measures of language and imitation in 53 children with autism spectrum disorder between the ages of 22 and 93 months. High-level and low-level IJA were not associated with each other, and only high-level IJA was associated with RJA, and language and imitation measures. High-level IJA and RJA were unique predictors of imitation, while RJA was a unique predictor of language. Findings indicate that IJA involves distinct skills, with high-level behaviors more closely related to social-communication skills.
Partially carboxylated prothrombins. II. Effect of gamma-carboxyglutamyl residues on the properties of prothrombin fragment 1.

Abstract Purified prothrombin fragments 1 derived from normal (10-carboxyglutamyl) and dicoumarol-induced 7-, 5-, 2-, 1-, and 0-carboxyglutamyl prothrombins contained the same number of γ-carboxyglutamyl residues as their respective parent molecules. The effect of γ-carboxyglutamyl residues was more pronounced on the fragments 1 than on the prothrombins. Consequently, the p I values of the fragments 1 were very well differentiated, with normal fragment 1 focusing at pH 3.58, 7-carboxyglutamyl fragment 1 at 3.79, 5- at 3.97, and 2- at pH 4.29. Similarly, by agar gel electrophoresis, normal fragment 1 was the most mobile, followed by 7-, 5-, 2-, 1- and lastly 0-carboxyglutamyl fragment 1. Because of Ca 2+ being bound to the carboxyglutamyl residues, the electrophoretic mobility of normal fragment 1, in the presence of Ca 2+ , was reduced the most, followed by 7-, 5- and then 2-carboxyglutamyl fragment 1, while the mobilities of the 1- and 0-carboxyglutamyl fragments 1 were not affected. In contrast to their parent molecules, all of the fragments 1 in the presence of EDTA gave negative immunoprecipitation reactions against antibodies produced against normal prothrombin. In the presence of Ca 2+ , conversely, the fragments 1 containing comparable amounts of antigenic activity all gave positive reactions. However, the intensity of the immunoprecipitates varied, as normal fragment 1 gave the most prominent immunoprecipitation reaction, consecutively followed by 7-, 5-, 2-, 1- and lastly 0-carboxyglutamyl fragment 1 where the precipitation was so faint that it was hardly visible.
Physical frailty and body composition in obese elderly men and women.

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of frailty and interrelationships among body composition, physical function, and quality of life in community-dwelling obese elderly (OE) persons. Research Methods and Procedures: Fifty-two OE, 52 nonobese frail, and 52 nonobese nonfrail subjects, matched for age and sex, were studied. Subjective and objective measures of functional status were evaluated by using the physical performance test, exercise stress test, lower extremity (LE) strength, gait speed, static and dynamic balance, functional status questionnaires, and health-related quality-of-life questionnaire (Medical Outcomes Short Form). Body composition was evaluated by using DXA, and muscle quality was evaluated by determining the ratio of LE strength to LE lean mass. Results: Among OE subjects, 96% met our standard criteria for mild to moderate frailty. Compared with the nonobese nonfrail group, the OE and nonobese frail groups had lower and similar scores in physical performance test, peak aerobic power, and functional status questionnaire, and exhibited similar impairments in strength, walking speed, balance, and health-related quality of life. Although absolute fat-free mass (FFM) was greater, the percentage body weight as FFM and muscle quality was lower in the OE group than in the other two groups. Discussion: Physical frailty, which predisposes to loss of independence, is common in community-living OE men and women. Physical frailty in OE subjects was associated with low percentage FFM, poor muscle quality, and decreased quality of life. These findings suggest that weight loss therapy may be particularly important in OE persons to improve physical function, in addition to improving the medical complications associated with obesity.
Learning theory and the re-education of older software engineers

This paper provides an overview of behaviorist, cognitive, and social learning theories, as well as memory and motivation when applied to a paradigm of older software engineers and re-education. While not comprehensive, it does give some insight into the applicability of the different learning theories when applied to the problem of re-educating older software engineers. We find that cognitivist theories, memory and motivation predominantly hold as pedagogical approaches to effectively address this audience.
Ras-stimulated Extracellular Signal-related Kinase 1 and RhoA Activities Coordinate Platelet-derived Growth Factor-induced G1 Progression through the Independent Regulation of Cyclin D1 and p27KIP1

Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-induced Ras activation is required for G1 progression in Chinese hamster embryo fibroblasts (IIC9 cells). Ras stimulates both extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) activation and RhoA activation in response to PDGF stimulation. Inhibition of either of these Ras-stimulated pathways results in growth arrest. We have shown previously that Ras-stimulated ERK activation is essential for the induction and continued G1 expression of cyclin D1. In this study we examine the role of Ras-induced RhoA activity in G1 progression. Unstimulated IIC9 cells expressed high levels of the G1 cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27KIP1. Stimulation with PDGF resulted in a dramatic decrease in p27KIP1 protein expression. This decrease was attributed to increased p27KIP1 protein degradation. Overexpression of dominant-negative forms of Ras or RhoA completely blocked PDGF-induced p27KIP1 degradation, but only dominant-negative Ras inhibited cyclin D1 protein expression. C3 transferase also inhibited PDGF-induced p27KIP1 degradation, thus further implicating RhoA in p27KIP1 regulation. Overexpression of dominant-negative ERK resulted in inhibition of PDGF-induced cyclin D1 expression but had no effect on PDGF-induced p27KIP1 degradation. These data suggest that Ras coordinates the independent regulation of cyclin D1 and p27KIP1 expression by the respective activation of ERK and RhoA and that these pathways converge to determine the activation state of complexes of cyclin D1 and cyclin-dependent kinase in response to mitogen.
Identification of Ni-( l -His) 2 as a substrate for NikABCDE-dependent nickel uptake in Escherichia coli

Nickel is an important cofactor for several microbial enzymes. The ATP-dependent NikABCDE transporter is one of several types of uptake pathways known to be important for nickel acquisition in microbes. The Escherichia coli NikA periplasmic binding protein is structurally homologous to the di- and oligopeptide binding proteins, DppA and OppA. This structural similarity raises interesting questions regarding the evolutionary relationships between the recognition of nickel ions and short peptides. We find that in defined minimal growth medium NikABCDE transports nickel ions in the presence of exogenously added L-histidine (L-His), but not D-histidine. Both nickel uptake in cells and nickel binding to purified NikA showed an L-His concentration dependence consistent with recognition of a Ni-(L-His)2 complex. This discovery reveals parallels to the transport of other metal complexes, notably iron, and suggests the structural diversity of nickel transporters may arise from the need to recognize extracellular nickel complexed with different organic ligands, whether they be exogenously or endogenously produced. Further, these results suggest that experiments examining the physiology and ecology of nickel-requiring microbes should account for the possibility that the growth medium may not support nickel uptake.
Semiclassical instability of compactification.

It is shown that several schemes for compactification of the extra dimensions in Kaluza-Klein theories are unstable to a quantum gravitational process of barrier penetration: The universe can tunnel from a state with static extra dimensions to a de Sitter expansion of all dimensions. The tunneling rate is estimated, and it is found that the present state of the universe is probably long-lived (in good agreement with observation).
Iterative cooperation between parallel pathways for object and background motion

In a typical visual scene, one or more objects move relative to a larger background, which can itself be in motion as a result of the observer’s eyes moving with respect to the outside world. Here we show that accurate estimation of the background motion from an image velocity field can be accomplished through an iterative cooperation between two modules: one that specializes in calculating a weighted average velocity and another one calculating a velocity contrast map. We build on our analysis to provide a model for the tectum-pretectum loop in the nonmammalian midbrain. Our model accounts for some of the known properties of the tectal neurons (sensitivity to relative motion) and pretectal neurons (sensitivity to whole-field motion). It also agrees with our knowledge of the pretectotectal projection (divergent and inhibitory), and with the results of lesion studies in which the pretectal input to the tectum was removed, leading to hyperactivity of the tectal neurons and the animal. Our model also makes a testable prediction regarding the tectopretectal projection, i.e., that the presence of a larger object and a bigger discrepancy between the directions of motion for the object and the background lead to a larger error by the pretectum in estimating the background motion when the tectal input is abolished.
The Case for Existential (Spiritual) Psychotherapy

As I conceive it, existential psychotherapy has deep spiritual roots. Following in the tradition of existential-spiritual philosophy, I describe the nature of these roots, the implications of them for existential-integrative therapy, and a case vignette to illustrate their application. I conclude with a reflection on the importance of contextualizing and integrating existential themes into general therapeutic practice.
Le Pôle Nucléaire de Bourgogne

Le PNB, Pole Nucleaire de bourgogne renomme en 2013 Pole de l’Industrie Nucleaire, a ete cree en 2005 par neuf membres fondateurs, pour les besoins futurs de l’industrie nucleaire.A partir d’une tradition de production ininterrompue depuis plus d’un quart de siecle, la filiere a pu maintenir le savoir-faire industriel local reconnu mondialement, le PNB a vu le jour sur deux coeurs de metiers, la fabrication, en termes de mecanique, de metallurgie, de soudage, de chaudronnerie, ainsi que la maintenance, avec le controle, l’inspection, les automatismes et la robotique.Depuis, le PNB a su lancer et federer d’importantes actions de formation sur ses metiers, qui correspondent a des emplois cles pour les entreprises, en collaboration avec les filieres d’enseignement locales, la Region et l’UIMM ainsi que les entreprises locales.Enfin, le PNB est sur un marche aux temps longs et evolue donc tant en perimetre – avec un troisieme domaine acte en 2009 maintenance et deconstruction en milieu hostile, et maintenant un nouveau domaine strategique identifie : le beton et le genie civil – qu’en territoire : ouverture vers la region Rhone-alpes et la region PACA.En conclusion, le PNb aujourd’hui, c’est 160 adherents dont 110 industriels, soit 12 000 salaries en bourgogne, avec des perspectives de recrutement (de l’ordre de 1000), liees a la croissance et au renouvellement des competences.