cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impact of congruence in cause marketing campaigns for professional sport organisations

Cause marketing is the fastest growing type of sponsorship and is a key tactic for implementing a firm’s social responsibility strategy. Unique characteristics of the sport industry make cause marketing participation compelling, if not expected for sport organisations. This study assessed the relationship between sponsor-cause congruence and consumer responses to cause marketing programmes for professional sport leagues. A total of 186 students participated in a two-group experimental design. Results indicated a main effects difference for sponsorship response variables between congruent and less congruent conditions. Perceived sincerity was significantly more positive for congruent sponsor-cause linkages. Subjects’ level of interest with the sport league sponsoring a cause was a significant covariate with attitude toward the sponsor and indirect/direct consumption intention. Given the low means for the consumer response variables, the cause marketing efforts of professional sport brands may not have the same impact as those executed by brands in other product categories.
Territory owners discriminate between aggressive and nonaggressive neighbours

In a territorial system where males vary in fighting ability or attractiveness to females, not all neighbours should be equally threatening to a territory owner. Selection should act on territory owners to recognize consistent individual differences between neighbours, assess which neighbours represent greater threats, and respond appropriately when challenged. In this study, we examined whether male song sparrows, Melospiza melodia, assess the level of threat posed by individual neighbours and respond differently to neighbours that differ in their level of aggressiveness. Aggressive males should represent a greater threat because they are more likely to engage in fights over territorial boundaries, and may also be preferred by females as extrapair mates. We used playback experiments to assay male territorial aggression, and then to test whether males responded differently to their aggressive and nonaggressive neighbours. We found that male song sparrows respond more strongly to their aggressive neighbours than to their nonaggressive neighbours. Thus, male song sparrows differentiate between neighbours that differ in aggressive response and appear to respond adaptively towards the individual that poses the greatest threat.
Erythromelalgia pain managed with gabapentin.

ERYTHROMELALGIA is a rare syndrome characterized by episodic burning pain, erythema, and elevated temperature of the feet, hands, or both. The syndrome can occur alone or with myeloproliferative or other diseases. Attacks may last from minutes to days and can persist indefinitely in the absence of treatment. The pathophysiology of erythromelalgia is poorly understood. Case reports in the literature have implicated abnormalities of arterioles, platelets, and peripheral nerves. Patients typically obtain relief from elevating and cooling the involved extremity. This relief usually is temporary, with some patients developing immersion injury from prolonged exposure to cold water. Symptomatic responses have been reported to aspirin therapy, vasodilators, beta blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, and regional local anesthetic techniques. Gabapentin, an anticonvulsant, has been reported to be effective in managing a variety of chronic pain states. We report two patients for whom several previously described treatments for the pain of erythromelalgia were ineffective and whose symptoms resolved after the institution of therapy with gabapentin.
Immunocytochemical localization of serotonin in the rat periaqueductal gray: A quantitative light and electron microscopic study

The distribution of serotonin-like immunoreactivity in five regions of the rodent midbrain periaqueductal gray (PAG) was studied by using light and electron microscopic immunohistochemistry in combination with quantitative analysis. Light microscopic analysis revealed the presence of serotonin-like immunoreactive cell bodies located in the ventrolateral and ventromedial regions of the caudal PAG and serotonin-like immunoreactive processes throughout the PAG. Ultrastructural analysis showed dendritic profiles that stained positively for serotonin primarily in ventral regions, although an occasional profile was seen dorsally. Numerous synaptic contacts between unstained axon terminals and ventral dendritic profiles were seen. Axonal profiles that contained reaction product were identified throughout the PAG, but were rarely observed to make any type of specialized contact. Ultrastructural quantification of serotonin-like immunoreactive processes indicated that the highest volume fraction of serotonin immunoreactivity occurred caudoventrally where stained processes constituted 2.6% of the neuropil volume. Rostroventrally stained processes constituted only 0.14% of the neuropil volume at the level of the posterior commissure. By contrast the amount of serotonin-like immunoreactivity found dorsally remained relatively constant at all rostrocaudal levels. Analysis of serotonin staining among PAG regions demonstrated the lowest overall volume friction in the dorsal region and the highest overall volume fraction in the ventromedial region. No significant differences were observed between medial and lateral regions. A comparison of the results of light microscopic quantitative analysis of serotoninergic processes with electron microscopic quantitative analysis indicated that both techniques produce comparable results.
Corrected cast for implant-supported prosthesis: Segmental matrix pickup

A modification of a segmental framework matrix technique for fabrication of an implant-supported prosthesis is presented. A direct "pickup" procedure creates a master cast with intraorally verified accuracy. Proximal contacts and interocclusal relationships are also recorded.
Intravenous self-administration of nicotine: with and without schedule-induction.

Abstract In Experiment I, rhesus monkeys were trained to lever press on a concurrent fixed-interval 5-min (food pellets) fixed-ratio 1 (IV nicotine-injection) schedule of reinforcement. All three monkeys self-administered nicotine (0.1–100 μg/kg/injection) at two or more doses during the concurrent conditions (Concurrent I or II) at rates that exceeded saline control or rates of nicotine-maintained responding on a simple fixed-ratio 1 schedule (No Food condition). At least one dose of nicotine did maintain FR 1 responding which was greater than saline rates on the single component schedule and these rates were not increased by the addition of a concurrent schedule of food reinforcement. During the concurrent schedule, nicotine-maintained responding occurred throughout the 60-min session in contrast to the No Food (FR 1) condition where most injections of nicotine were self-administered during the initial segments of the session. In general, nicotine injections occurred during the early portions of the interval, although this varied between individual animals. In Experiment II, rhesus monkeys were trained to lever press for intravenous injections of cocaine (50 μg/kg/injection) on a fixed-ratio 10 schedule of reinforcement. During testing, doses of nicotine (1–300 μg/kg/injection) or saline were substituted for cocaine. Nicotine maintained FR 10 responding at rates that exceeded saline self-administration at one or more doses in all four monkeys. These doses were similar to those that functioned as positive reinforcers in Experiment I. These two experiments demonstrate that nicotine can function as a positive reinforcer to maintain FR 1 or FR 10 responding. Experiment I also showed schedule-induction by a concurrent food reinforcement schedule of the self-administration of low doses of nicotine which did not maintain responding on the simple FR 1 schedule, indicating an interaction between environmental factors (schedule of food reinforcement) and pharmacological properties of a drug.
The novel structure of a polymeric iron(II) compound with an unusually large mössbauer quadrupole splitting

Abstract The crystal structure of Fe(NH2NH CS NH2)2SO4 has been determined. Although the crystal contains both cis- and trans-Fe(NH2NH CS NH2 units bridged by SO4 ions, the Mossbauer spectrum consists of only two reasonably sharp lines, with the largest reported quadrupole splitting of an Fe(II) complex.
Conjoint smoking and drinking: a case for dual-substance intervention among young emergency department patients.

. Objectives: To better understand conjoint smoking and drinking among young adult emergency department (ED) patients, the purposes of this investigation were: 1) to assess the prevalence of conjoint use; 2) to determine the factors associated with conjoint alcohol use and smoking; and 3) to address the implications for future ED-based investigation of dual-substance intervention. Methods: Data for this investigation were obtained from a battery of questionnaires administered to the routine-care patients during an alcohol screening in the ED, which was part of a larger alcohol intervention study. Results: Study findings revealed that a majority of patients with self-reported alcohol-related problems were smokers. In fact, drinkers who smoked were likely to be pack-a-day smokers. Among the study sample, being female, having low education levels (e.g., high school education or less), having some emotional problems, and currently using marijuana were risk factors for conjoint smoking and drinking. Conclusions: Conjoint users were identifiable through brief screening. Given the prevalence of conjoint smoking and alcohol use among the ED sample and a specific set of risk factors, tailored intervention for alcohol and nicotine dependence may be an important and opportunistic clinical ED service.
Spectral Energy Distribution in Four Types of Infant Vocalizations.

Abstract The distribution of spectral energy among four types of infant vocalizations was compared via computerized spectral analyses of “pain-induced”, “fussy”, and “hungry” cries and “cooing” of 30 2–6-month-old infants. Visual inspection indicated that “pain-induced” cries could be differentiated from “fussy” and “hungry” cries and that “cooing” could be differentiated from all cries on the bases of (1) the relative amplitude levels of the high-frequency components; (2) the average fundamental frequency; and (3) the overall spectral energy levels. Analysis of variance showed that (1) the mean spectral energy (MSE) level of “pain-induced” cries were significantly higher than those of the other two types of cries and that the MSE of all three types of cries was significantly higher than that of cooing; and (2) that the mean spectral energy in any vocalization by 6-month-old infants of either was significantly lower than that in any vocalization of younger infants.
Formulating and Implementing Public Policy for New Energy Carriers

There are several widely recognized tests for determining whether government should intervene in the marketplace. Does the public policy improve efficiency, equity, or stability, or does it pursue widely accepted social objectives? This paper examines the formulation of public policies toward new energy carriers such as hydrogen, in terms of what they ought to be and what they are in actuality. It goes on to examine policy implementation issues, which will be strongly affected by the hydrogen economy's likely development trajectory. Hydrogen, as currently conceived, can be expected to evolve from a local market to a continental market over time, implying that state and local policies will strongly influence its development. The paper closes with strategic policy recommendations
Retrospective analysis of patients undergoing one- or two-stage strategies for myocardial revascularization and implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation

Internal defibrillation leads were placed at time of coronary revascularization in 79 patients. In 34, an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) was placed simultaneously (group I). A two-stage strategy (selective implantation of the ICD in patients with postoperative spontaneous or inducible ventricular tachycardia [VT]) was followed in 45 patients (group II). Group I patients had failed more antiarrhythmic drug trials (2.9 +/- 1.6 vs 1.5 +/- 1.6; P = 0.02), including amiodarone (62% vs 20%; P less than 0.001). There were four operative deaths in each group. Postoperatively, VT was present in 27 group II patients (60%), 25 of whom received an ICD (two refused device implantation). Patients with postoperative VT had a lower left ventricular ejection fraction than those without VT (33 +/- 9 vs 47 +/- 16; P = 0.01). Actuarial survival at 1, 2, and 3 years was 88 +/- 6, 88 +/- 7, and 88 +/- 10 in group I; and 83 +/- 6, 76 +/- 7, and 76 +/- 11 in group II (NS). No patient without an ICD (based on the postoperative electrophysiological study [EPS]) died suddenly. Five patients (6%) had ICD system infection. Sudden death was largely prevented by either strategy, but relatively high rates of operative mortality and ICD system infection were observed. Prospective studies should identify patients more likely to benefit from one or another strategy.
Stylus input and editing without prior selection of mode

This paper offers a solution to the mode problem in computer sketch/notetaking programs. Conventionally, the user must specify the intended "draw" or "command" mode prior to performing a stroke. This necessity has proven to be a barrier to the usability of pen/stylus systems. We offer a novel Inferred-Mode interaction protocol that avoids the mode hassles of conventional sketch systems. The system infers the user's intent, if possible, from the properties of the pen trajectory and the context of the trajectory. If the intent is ambiguous, the user is offered a choice mediator in the form of a pop-up button. To maximize the fluidity of drawing, the user is entitled to ignore the mediator and continue drawing. We present decision logic for the inferred mode protocol, and discuss subtleties learned in the course of its development. We also present results of initial user trials validating the usability of this interaction design.
Understanding White Americans' Perceptions of Racism in Hurricane Katrina-Related Events

The present research used a longitudinal design to examine perceptions of racism in Katrina-related events among a sample of White American college students returning to New Orleans following Hurri...
Crystallographic tilting of heteroepitaxial layers

Abstract Mismatched heteroepitaxial layers generally exhibit a crystallographic tilt with respect to their vicinal substrates, but this phenomenon is poorly understood. Two models have been proposed for tilted epitaxy previously. The Nagai model considers the mismatch at surface steps on vicinal substrates and the misfit dislocation theory considers misfit dislocations with inclined Burgers vectors as the primary cause of tilted epitaxy. Neither of these theories applies in the general case, however. The misfit dislocation theory does not consider the mechanism of the preferential introduction of dislocations with a particular orientation, and therefore does not predict the direction of tilted epitaxy. Here a general theory for tilted epitaxy is proposed, including both contributions cited above. We propose that the preferential glide of certain Burgers orientations is the result of vicinal substrates, commonly used in heteroepitaxy, which create an assymetry in the stresses for the various active slip systems. If the substrate inclination is about an axis of symmetry, then the tilt of the epitaxial growth is about the same axis, and its sign is determined by the nature of the mismatch: the relief of compressive strain results in negative tilt whereas the relief of tensile strain results in positive tilt. The exact amount of tilt will depend on the dynamics of strain relaxation. Upper and lower limits for the tilt have been derived. The observed tilt angle contains information on how the relaxation process took place.
Histologic and Morphologic Effects of Rotary Atherectomy on Human Cadaver Arteries

Intimal splitting and medial dissection caused by balloon angioplasty and thermal burns and subintimal vacuolization caused by laser angioplasty have been proposed as potential causes of failure from these respective procedures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the histologic and morphologic effects of a new high speed rotary atherectomy device (the Rotoblator) on human cadaver arteries. Fifteen stenotic human cadaver superficial femoral and popliteal arteries were harvested and atherectomized using the Rotoblator. Histologically, on cross-section, the atherectomized arteries exhibited a denuded endothelial layer, a smooth rounded luminal contour, minute plaque separation from the media, absence of plaque fragmentation, and variable remaining rim of atheromatous plaque. The media showed variable loss of the internal elastic lamina, normal remaining elastin, and normal smooth muscle cells. The adventitia was normal and completely intact in all sections with no media/adventitia separation or perforations. Scanning electron microscopy revealed endothelial peeling, etching from the atherectomy devices within the smooth muscle layer, and a tapered atherectomy distal endpoint. The arterial branches were preserved without evidence of any disruption of the branch artery orifice. Compared to balloon angioplasty and laser angioplasty, the Rotoblator atherectomy device appears to leave a smoother, more rounded luminal surface that may result in less risk of embolic complications and arterial wall damage.
Predicting postoperative morbidity following cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CS+HIPEC) with preoperative FACT-C (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy) and patient-rated performance status.

Background Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CS+HIPEC) is associated with significant perioperative morbidity. One goal of our ongoing patient-reported health-related quality of life (HRQoL) program is to describe the prognostic value of HRQoL measures for predicting postoperative morbidity and mortality following CS+HIPEC.
Determination of jumps of distributions by differentiated means

Differentiated means are defined in order to find formulas for jumps of distributions. We analyze two types of jumps occurring in the notions of distributional jump behavior and symmetric jump behavior. We start by defining what we call Riesz differentiated means for numerical series, then the differentiated means are extended to distributional evaluations for the Schwartz class of tempered distributions. The jumps of tempered distributions are completely determined by the differentiated means of the Fourier transform. We also find formulas for the jumps in terms of the asymptotic behavior of partial derivatives of harmonic representations and harmonic conjugate functions. Applications to Fourier series are given.
A taxonomic revision of boas (Serpentes: Boidae).

Large molecular datasets including many species and loci have greatly improved our knowledge of snake phylogeny, particularly within the group including boas (Table 1). Recent taxonomic revisions using molecular phylogenies have clarified some of the previously contentious nomenclature of the group (Wilcox et al. 2002; Lawson et al. 2004; Burbrink 2005; Noonan & Chippindale 2006), resulting in a robust taxonomy that is mostly concordant with the phylogeny as currently known, which includes ~85% of described, extant species (Pyron et al. 2013; Reynolds et al. 2014). However, a few unresolved issues remain, related primarily to the rules of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature ( the Code hereafter) and the application of Linnaean ranks (International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature et al. 1999).
Prions and retroviruses: an endosomal rendezvous?

The past two decades have seen the emergence of endocytic pathways as highly regulated systems for the sorting, selective degradation and recycling of nearly all cell‐surface membrane proteins. At the centre of these pathways are complex endosomal structures known as multivesicular bodies (MVBs) that house intraluminal vesicles (ILVs) formed by invagination and budding from the limiting membrane (Fig 1A). The ILVs contain membrane proteins from the Golgi complex and cell surface that are destined typically for degradation after the fusion of MVBs with lysosomes. This constitutive fate of ILVs is universal to eukaryotes and represents one of the main pathways for membrane protein degradation (Katzmann et al , 2002). Figure 1. Protein transport in the endo‐lysosomal pathways. ( A ) Topological relationships of the multivesicular body (MVB). Different types of cell‐surface proteins (indicated by blue and red molecules) can be internalized and transported by various routes (arrows) to endosomal compartments. The endosomal compartment is known as an MVB when its lumen contains intraluminal vesicles (ILVs) that are formed by budding from the limiting membrane. If the MVB fuses with the plasma membrane, ILVs are released into the extracellular space and become known as exosomes. ( B ) Transport into and out of the multivesicular body (MVB). Pathways linking the MVB with other compartments, such as the early endosome (EE), Golgi, lysosome and plasma membrane, are all regulated in a substrate‐specific and cell‐type‐specific manner to control the localization and fate of various membrane proteins (blue, red and green molecules). Alterations of these transport pathways is emerging as a key facet of viral pathogenesis and might also influence the intracellular accumulation and cell‐to‐cell transmission of prions. For example, adjacent cells, through interactions among cell surface signalling or adhesion molecules, might stimulate localized MVB fusion with the plasma membrane to facilitate exosome release and intercellular transfer of their cargo. …
A two-stage binary optional randomized response model

Social Desirability Bias (SDB) is the tendency in respondents to answer questions untruthfully in the hope of giving good impression to others. SDB occurs when the survey question is highly sensitive or personal, and responses cause sample statistics to systematically over- or underestimate corresponding population parameters. The Randomized Response Technique (RRT) is one of several methods to get around SDB in surveys involving sensitive questions in a face-to-face interview. In this thesis, we first review some of the existing binary response RRT models. Then, by combining two existing models, we propose a new model--Two-Stage Binary Optional RRT model. Much of the focus is on estimating pi, the prevalence of sensitive characteristic and W, the sensitivity level of the underlying question. We discuss the asymptotic properties of our estimators and present some simulation results. It turns out that the proposed Two-Stage Binary Optional RRT model is more effective than the Optional RRT model proposed by Gupta (2001).
Noninvasive hemodynamic monitoring for early warning of adult respiratory distress syndrome in trauma patients

Abstract Purpose: Traditionally hemodynamic patterns after adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are described after appropriate diagnostic criteria have been met, but studies begun after the diagnosis of ARDS miss the antecedent circulatory influences that may contribute to its development. This study tests the hypothesis that noninvasive monitoring before the appearance of ARDS may reveal early circulatory deficiencies that lead to this disorder. The aims of this study are as follows: (1) to describe the time course of hemodynamic and tissue perfusion patterns in severely traumatized postoperative patients from the period immediately after admission and during surgical repair to the time that ARDS developed or to hospital discharge in patients who did not develop ARDS, (2) to compare the time course of these patterns in survivors and nonsurvivors of ARDS, and (3) to suggest that reduced flow and perfusion may be early warning signs of ARDS. Prospective descriptive study of severely injured trauma patients noninvasively monitored in the emergency department, operating room, and intensive care unit (ICU). Early hemodynamic patterns were described in the surviving and nonsurviving patients who subsequently developed ARDS. The study was performed in a University-affiliated Level I trauma center and ICU. Patients and Methods: A consecutively monitored series of 60 severely injured patients were prospectively monitored by cardiac output, pulse oximetry (Sap O 2), and transcutaneous O 2 and CO 2 (Ptc O 2 and Ptc CO 2) sensors immediately after emergency admission. Twentynine patients developed ARDS in their ICU course, whereas 31 were discharged from the ICU and the hospital without developing ARDS. Results: Patients who developed ARDS had significantly lower cardiac index and Ptc O 2 and higher Ptc CO 2 values beginning with the early stage compared with those who did not develop ARDS. Nonsurvivors of ARDS had lower Ptc O 2 values than did the survivors. Conclusion: Early noninvasive monitoring in the emergency department, operating room, and ICU showed reduced cardiac and tissue perfusion functions in patients who subsequently developed ARDS. These patterns were more pronounced in the ARDS patients who died; these patterns may serve as early warning of ARDS. Copyright © 2000 by W.B. Saunders Company
Severe mitral or aortic valve regurgitation, or both, requiring valve replacement for infective endocarditis complicating hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Abstract Certain clinical and morphologic findings are described in 11 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy complicated by infective endocarditis that produced severe mitral or aortic valve regurgitation, or both, necessitating valve replacement. All 11 patients had changes in the operatively excised valve or valves characteristic of healed infective endocarditis. The infection involved only the mitral valve in seven patients, only the aortic valve in three patients and both valves in one patient. Study of the operatively excised mitral valves indicated that the healed vegetations were located most commonly on the left ventricular aspects of the anterior mitral leaflet, indicating that vegetation had formed at contact points of this leaflet with mural endocardium of the left ventricular outflow tract. In all 11 patients, the infective endocarditis either worsened preexisting valve regurgitation or initiated valve regurgitation and led to worsened signs and symptoms of cardiac dysfunction, necessitating valve replacement. Functional class improved in the nine patients who survived 7 to 101 months after valve replacement. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy appears to be a factor predisposing to infective endocarditis. Patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy should receive prophylactic antibiotic therapy during procedures that predispose to infective endocarditis.
Algorithms for the universal and a priori TSP

We present two simple results for generalizations of the traveling salesman problem (TSP): for the universal TSP, we show that one can compute a tour that is universally optimal whenever the input is a tree metric. A (randomized) O(logn)-approximation algorithm for the a priori TSP follows as a corollary.
Microanalyses of enzymes and metabolites in ischemia/reperfusion-induced partial-thickness skin wounds.

A transition zone between well-perfused proximal tissue and inadequately perfused distal tissue was evaluated histologically and biochemically in skin flaps. Cranially based pedicle flaps, 3 × 7.5 cm, were made on the backs of female Sprague-Dawley rats. Flap survival was 22% of the original flap area at 7 days and 40% at 14 days after flap elevation (p < 0.001). The transition zone consisted of full-thickness skin survival proximally and partial-thickness wound distally. It is evident that skin wounds induced by ischemia or reperfusion repair continuously between 7 and 14 days after flap elevation. Tissue glucose, lactate, and hypoxanthine levels were measured to assess capillary perfusion in the transition zone on postoperative day 3. The proximal full-thickness skin 5 mm from the wound margin demonstrated no significant changes in glucose and lactate levels compared with normal skin. The partial-thickness wounds exhibited no change in glucose (a 33% decrease was not statistically significant) but a significant increase (319% of normal) in lactate level (p < 0.05). Hypoxanthine levels increased to 453% of normal in full-thickness skin (p < 0.01) and to 787% in partial-thickness wounds (p < 0.001). Metabolic response was evaluated by enzyme assays in the transition zone. Hexokinase activity increased by 251% of normal (p < 0.05), glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase by 245% (p < 0.01), and glutathione reductase by 184% (p < 0.05) in the proximal full-thickness skin. Hexokinase activity further increased by 482% of normal (p < 0.01), glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase by 379% (p < 0.05), and glutathione reductase by 346% (p < 0.01) in partial-thickness wounds. The results suggest that partial-thickness wounds have less capillary circulation but greater antioxidant enzyme activities than does the survival area with full-thickness skin.
Assessing Missed Opportunities for HIV Testing in Medical Settings

BACKGROUND: Many HIV-infected persons learn about their diagnosis years after initial infection. The extent to which missed opportunities for HIV testing occur in medical evaluations prior to one’s HIV diagnosis is not known. DESIGN: We performed a 10-year retrospective chart review of patients seen at an HIV intake clinic between January 1994 and June 2001 who 1) tested positive for HIV during the 12 months prior to their presentation at the intake clinic and 2) had at least one encounter recorded in the medical record prior to their HIV-positive status. Data collection included demographics, clinical presentation, and whether HIV testing was recommended to the patient or addressed in any way in the clinical note. Prespecified triggers for physicians to recommend HIV testing, such as specific patient characteristics, symptoms, and physical findings, were recorded for each visit. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with missed opportunities for discussion of HIV testing. Generalized estimating equations were used to account for multiple visits per subject. RESULTS: Among the 221 patients meeting eligibility criteria, all had triggers for HIV testing found in an encounter note. Triggers were found in 50% (1,702/3,424) of these 221 patients’ medical visits. The median number of visits per patient prior to HIV diagnosis to this single institution was 5; 40% of these visits were to either the emergency department or urgent care clinic. HIV was addressed in 27% of visits in which triggers were identified. The multivariable regression model indicated that patients were more likely to have testing addressed in urgent care clinic (39%), sexually transmitted disease clinic (78%), primary care clinics (32%), and during hospitalization (47%), compared to the emergency department (11%), obstetrics/gynecology (9%), and other specialty clinics (10%) (P<.0001). More recent clinical visits (1997–2001) were more likely to have HIV addressed than earlier visits (P<.0001). Women were offered testing less often than men (P=.07). CONCLUSIONS: Missed opportunities for addressing HIV testing remain unacceptably high when patients seek medical care in the period before their HIV diagnosis. Despite improvement in recent years, variation by site of care remained important. In particular, the emergency department merits consideration for increased resource commitment to facilitate HIV testing. In order to detect HIV infection prior to advanced immunosuppression, clinicians must become more aware of clinical triggers that suggest a patient’s increased risk for this infection and lower the threshold at which HIV testing is recommended.
Truncus arteriosus revisited: an angiographic demonstration

The 1965 reclassification of truncus arteriosus by Van Praagh and Van Praagh greatly enhanced our understanding of this interesting anomaly. This brief review article attempts to illustrate the various types of truncus arteriosus identified in this classification by demonstrating their angiographic features. Reemphasis of the usefulness of this classification should help students of congenital heart disease recognize the advantages of a uniform diagnostic approach to this entity.
An Analysis of the Impact of Aids on Funeral Culture in Malawi

Social research on AIDS is beginning to look beyond the causes, treatment, and prevention of the disease to its impacts on society and the economy. This article looks specifically at the impact of AIDS on funeral culture in Malawi. Statistical methods, basic ethnography, and focused interviews were employed to document changes in funerary customs and attendance patterns. Because of rising death rates from AIDS, Malawians are facing increasing difficulty in attending every funeral in their village, as custom requires. This is leading to selectivity in funeral attendance, stemming from a prioritization based on underlying cultural values. Families of AIDS victims are also facing difficulties in coping with the expectation to provide a funeral feast, given that funerals are far more numerous than before the onset of the AIDS crisis. This article demonstrates the importance of adapting both old and new methods to understanding the multifaceted AIDS epidemic.
Biological decomposition of cyanide in sewage sludge

Abstract The potential of sewage sludge for decomposition of cyanide has been investigated at different temperatures, ratio sewage sludge to cyanide, pH and also at prolonged and at four cycle repeated processes. Along with the kinetics of cyanide decomposition, the consumption of reagents necessary to maintain pH of the biosystem and the releasing of volatile cyanide have been examined. The positive effect of the activation of sewage sludge by means of aeration and its correlation to the kinetics of the bacterial growth have been also studied. Along with aeration, “carrier biology” has been employed to improve the characteristics of sewage sludge, using wood peels as a carrier material.
Manganese causes differential regulation of glutamate transporter (GLAST) taurine transporter and metallothionein in cultured rat astrocytes.

Neurotoxicity due to excessive brain manganese (Mn) can occur due to environmental (air pollution, soil, water) and/ or metabolic aberrations (decreased biliary excretion). Manganese is associated with oxidative stress, as well as alterations in neurotransmitter metabolism with concurrent neurobehavioral deficits. Based on the few existing studies that have examined brain regional [Mn], it is likely that in pathological conditions it can reach 100-500 microM. Amino acid (e.g. aspartate, glutamate, taurine), as well as divalent metal (e.g. zinc, manganese) concentrations are regulated by astrocytes in the brain. Recently, it has been reported that cultured rat primary astrocytes exposed to Mn displayed decreased glutamate uptake, thereby, increasing the excitotoxic potential of glutamate. Since the neurotoxic mechanism(s) Mn employs in terms of glutamate metabolism is unknown, a primary goal of this study was to link altered glutamate uptake in Mn exposed astrocytes to alterations in glutamate transporter message. Further, we wanted to examine the gene expression of metallothionein (MT) and taurine transporter (tau-T) as markers of Mn exposure. Glutamate uptake was decreased by nearly 40% in accordance with a 48% decrease in glutamate/aspartate transporter (GLAST) mRNA. Taurine uptake was unaffected by Mn exposure even though tau-T mRNA increased by 123%. MT mRNA decreased in these Mn exposed astrocytes possibly due to altered metal metabolism, although this was not examined. These data show that glutamate and taurine transport in Mn exposed astrocytes are temporally different.
Effects of mannose on Acanthamoeba castellanii proliferation and cytolytic ability to corneal epithelial cells.

PURPOSE Acanthamoeba trophozoites express a mannose binding receptor that facilitates adhesion of trophozoites to mannosylated proteins on corneal epithelial cells. This study was undertaken to determine the role that mannose stimulation has in the amoeba's growth, secreted products, and ability to desquamate the corneal epithelium. METHODS Acanthamoeba castellanii trophozoites were grown in peptone-yeast extract glucose (PYG) and PYG with 100 mM methyl alpha-D-mannopyranoside or galactose. The proliferation of trophozoites and cysts was examined by optical density and direct counts. The molecular weight of the mannose-stimulated protein was examined by SDS/PAGE. The cytolytic protein was purified by fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC) size exclusion and ionic exchange and then tested for cytopathic effect (CPE) and collagenolytic activity in vitro. Collagenolytic activity was examined by zymography. Proteases and protease inhibitors were used to characterize the nature of the cytolytic protein. RESULTS Methyl alpha-D-mannopyranoside inhibited the growth of A. castellanii by 50% (P < 0.05) and concomitantly induced a threefold increase in the formation of cysts. SDS-PAGE analysis revealed a mannose-induced protein of approximately 133 kDa (MIP-133). The MIP-133 protein was found to be highly cytolytic against corneal epithelial cells, but not human intestinal epithelial cells and also degraded collagen in vitro. Serine protease inhibitors abrogated both CPE and collagenolytic activity of the MIP-133 protein (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that binding of trophozoites to mannosylated proteins on the corneal surface induces A. castellanii to secrete a approximately 133-kDa serine protease that kills both human and hamster corneal epithelium and degrades collagen.
G protein-coupled Receptor Kinase 2 as a Therapeutic Target for Heart Failure

An ever-increasing number of people world-wide are developing and suffering from heart failure, and existing therapies, although improved are not ideal. Therefore, innovative treatment strategies are urgently needed. As our understanding of the underlying dysfunction of the myocardium increases, so does our ability to target the mechanisms responsible for heart failure progression. In this review we discuss novel molecular therapies and approaches for the treatment of heart failure. We will focus on the G protein-coupled receptor kinase GRK2, an increasing target for heart failure therapy, based on its important role in disease progression and the therapeutic potential of GRK2 inhibitors.
A family therapy model for preserving independence in older persons: Utilization of the family of procreation

Abstract This paper presents a family therapy model that utilizes the Bowen theory systems framework with the aged. Instead of seeking out the family of orientation, however, which is less significant to older family members who have fewer living siblings and parents, the framework is adapted to the family of procreation, which takes on increased importance in the lives of the elderly. A discussion of the older family member is followed by a brief explanation of the theoretical framework. The major thrust of the paper provides a description of the course of family therapy with the aged using this model. Included are the goals and outcomes of therapy, strategies for re-relating with other family members, and roles of the therapist and client. Research issues are discussed briefly. The expected outcomes of this model are the creation of more satisfying intergenerational relationships and the preservation and enhancement of independence for the aged.
Anatomical descriptions and comparison of the reproductive tracts of Utterbackia imbecillis and Villosa iris (Bivalvia: Unionidae)

Summary The reproductive tracts of dioecious Villosa iris (Lea, 1829) and hermaphroditic Utterbackia imbecillis (Say, 1829) are described and compared in sections of viscera examined with light and transmission electron microscopy. In both species, gametes are transported via ciliated gonoducts to a collecting gonosinus, connected to a ciliated genital duct by a highly rugated and musculaturized gonopore. This gonopore may be sphinctural and important for retaining gametes in the gonosinus for timely release. The genital duct is separate from the kidney and leads to the suprabranchial chamber. Epithelia of the gonoducts and gonosinuses of U. imbecillis, but not V. iris, contain secretory cells whose granules stain positive with periodic acid/Schiff (PAS), indicating the presence of carbohydrates or glycoproteins. Examinations of reproductive tracts of other species revealed that those of Elliptio complanata (Lightfoot, 1786), Lexingtonia dolabelloides (Lea, 1840), Villosa vanuxemensis (Lea, 1838), and Lam...
Videotaped Confessions: Panacea or Pandora's Box?

Videotape is becoming an increasingly common means of recording and presenting confessions that are obtained during custodial interrogations. Many scientific, legal, and political experts view this procedural advance as a solution to the growing problem of some innocent people being induced to incriminate themselves when confronted by standard police interrogation tactics. We review a program of research that indicates, however, that the indiscriminate application of videotaping to solve the problem of coerced or false confessions slipping through the system could ironically exacerbate the situation.
Contributions of all 20 amino acids at site 96 to the stability and structure of T4 lysozyme

To try to resolve the loss of stability in the temperature-sensitive mutant of T4 lysozyme, Arg 96 --> His, all of the remaining 18 naturally occurring amino acids were substituted at site 96. Also, in response to suggestions that the charged residues Lys85 and Asp89, which are 5-8 A away, may have important effects, each of these amino acids was replaced with alanine. Crystal structures were determined for many of the variants. With the exception of the tryptophan and valine mutants R96W and R96V, the crystallographic analysis shows that the substituted side chain following the path of Arg96 in wildtype (WT). The melting temperatures of the variants decrease by up to approximately 16 degrees C with WT being most stable. There are two site 96 replacements, with lysine or glutamine, that leave the stability close to that of WT. The only element that the side chains of these residues have in common with the WT arginine is the set of three carbon atoms at the C(alpha), C(beta), and C(gamma) positions. Although each side chain is long and flexible with a polar group at the distal position, the details of the hydrogen bonding to the rest of the protein differ in each case. Also, the glutamine replacement lacks a positive charge. This shows that there is some adaptability in achieving full stabilization at this site. At the other extreme, to be maximally destabilizing a mutation at site 96 must not only eliminate favorable interactions but also introduce an unfavorable element such as steric strain or a hydrogen-bonding group that remains unsatisfied. Overall, the study highlights the essential need for atomic resolution site-specific structural information to understand and to predict the stability of mutant proteins. It can be very misleading to simply assume that conservative amino acid substitutions cause small changes in stability, whereas large stability changes are associated with nonconservative replacements.
Phase Relations in the System Fe2O3–Fe3O4–YFeO3 in Air

Measurements were made of temperature and ternary composition for coexisting liquid and crystalline phases on the air isobar in the system Fe2O3-Fe3O4-YFeO3 with particular regard to the stability range and compositional limits of yttrium iron garnet. Phase equilibrium relations were determined by conventional quenching techniques combined with measurements of loss in weight at the reaction temperature to locate true ternary compositions. The intersection of the air isobar with the ternary univariant boundary curve for coexisting magnetite, garnet, and liquid phases results in a eutectic-type situation at the composition Y0.27Fe1.73 O2.87 and 1469°± 2°C. A similar intersection of the isobar with the boundary curve for coexisting garnet, orthoferrite, and liquid phases gives rise to a peritectic-type reaction at 1555° 3°C. and Y0.44Fe1.56 O2.89 The yttrium iron garnet crystallizing from liquids within these temperature and composition limits contains up to 0.5 mole % iron oxide in excess of the stoichiometric formula in terms of the starting composition 37.5 mole % Y2O3, 62.5 mole % Fe2O3. At 1470° C. the garnet phase in equilibrium with oxide liquid contains 2 mole % FeO in solid solution. The small solubility of excess of iron oxide and partial reduction of the garnet phase in air are unavoidable during equilibrium growth from the melt.
Déjà vu with a twist: transglutaminases in bioenergetics and transcriptional dysfunction in Huntington's disease

Abstract The article by McConoughey et al in the current issue of EMBO Molecular Medicine examines the contribution of transglutaminase 2 (TG2) to Huntington9s disease (HD) pathogenesis. The authors find that TG2 inhibition can ameliorate HD neurodegeneration, and thereby elevate the status of transglutaminases (TGs) to a major therapeutic target—not because of their well‐known activity in mutant protein aggregation, but instead based upon their ability to epigenetically modulate transcription and energy production. While the reintroduction of TG inhibition as a therapy for HD may evoke feelings of deja vu , the outcome this time around could go in a dramatically different direction. See related article in EMBO Mol Med (Stephen J. McConoughey et al. (2010) EMBO Mol Med 2: 349–370)
A framework for robot motion planning with sensor constraints

Visual feedback can play a crucial role in a dynamic robotic task such as the interception of a moving target. To utilize the feedback effectively, there is a need to develop robot motion planning techniques that also take into account properties of the sensed data. We propose a motion planning framework that achieves this with the help of a space called the perceptual control manifold (PCM) defined on the product of the robot configuration space and an image-based feature space. We show how the task of intercepting a moving target can be mapped to the PCM, using image feature trajectories of the robot end-effector and the moving target. This leads to the generation of motion plans that satisfy various constraints and optimality criteria derived from the robot kinematics, the control system, and the sensing mechanism. Specific interception tasks are analyzed to illustrate this vision-based planning technique.
Infant-parent psychotherapy with toddlers

Infant-parent psychotherapy in the second year of life presents specific challenges related to the child's developmental characteristics. The concept of projective identification is discussed as a mechanism for understanding the toddler's specific contribution to attachment disorders with the parent. A versatile clinical format is recommended including joint parent-child sessions, individual work with the toddler and the parents, and the use of therapeutic modes of communication specifically geared to the toddler's needs (“toddlerese”). Clinical examples and research applications are given to illustrate these points.