cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Website features that gave rise to social commerce: a historical analysis

Abstract Social commerce is a form of commerce mediated by social media and social network services (SNS). As a multifaceted phenomenon, social commerce can be studied from different angles and analyzed through the lens of various disciplines. This article examines website technical features to depict the transformation of e-commerce into social commerce. We first develop a conceptual framework to capture three emphases of e-commerce: transactional, relational and social. Then, we use the framework to conduct an historical analysis of the actual website screen captures for five top e-commerce companies since their websites were established. We were able to identify and classify a total of 174 emerging technical features. Our results show that: (1) all three emphases were expressed in the websites and have been reshaping their business and marketing strategies over the years; (2) there was a clear blooming of social features in 2007; and (3) there has been a significant effort to strengthen customer and merchant ties through relational features. Our findings signal that there still is room for further exploration of the social emphasis.
Evidence that pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase belongs to the ATPase/kinase superfamily

In this study the roles of invariant Asn-247, Asp-282, Gly-284, Gly-286 and Gly-319 of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase were investigated by site-directed mutagenesis. Recombinant kinases, wild-type, Asn-247Ala, Asp-282Ala, Gly-284Ala, Gly-286Ala and Gly-319Ala, were expressed in bacteria, purified, and characterized. Three mutant kinases, Asn-247Ala, Asp-282Ala and Gly-286Ala, lacked any appreciable activity. Two other mutants, Gly-284Ala and Gly-319Ala, were catalytically active, with apparent V(max) values close to that of the wild-type kinase (67 and 85 versus 70 nmol/min per mg, respectively). The apparent K(m) value of Gly-319Ala for nucleotide substrate increased significantly (1500 versus 16 microM). In contrast, Gly-284Ala had only a slightly higher K(m) value than the wild-type enzyme (28 versus 16 microM). ATP-binding analysis showed that Asn-247Ala, Asp-282Ala and Gly-286Ala could not bind nucleotide. The K(d) value of Gly-284Ala was slightly higher than that of the wild-type enzyme (7 versus 4 microM, respectively). In agreement with kinetic analysis, the Gly-319Ala mutant bound ATP so poorly that it was difficult to determine the binding constant. Despite the fact that Asn-247Ala, Asp-282Ala and Gly-286Ala lacked enzymic activity, they were still capable of binding the protein substrate, as shown by their negative-dominant effect in the competition assay with the wild-type kinase. The results of CD spectropolarimetry indicated that there were no major changes in the secondary structures of Asp-282Ala and Gly-286Ala. These results suggest strongly that the catalytic domain of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase is located at the C-terminus. Furthermore, the catalytic domain is likely to be folded similarly to the catalytic domains of the members of ATPase/kinase superfamily [molecular chaperone heat-shock protein 90 (Hsp90), DNA gyrase B and histidine protein kinases].
Slime mold beetles of the genus Anisotoma (Leiodidae): classification and evolution

. Leiodid beetles of the genus Anisotoma are redefined and reclassified, based on a cladistic analysis of the world fauna, and evolutionary and biogeographic hypotheses are discussed. Agathidium is the probable sister group of Anisotoma. Anisotoma consists of six monophyletic species groups, involving thirty-five known species, including thirteen new species: bifoveata, maculata, latustriata, sinuosa, campbelli, exigua, tenuiucida, hidalgoensis, montana, colima, autlanensis, scopula and reticulonota. Speciation may occur at a rapid rate in Anisotoma, between 10 000 and 1 000 000 years. Anisotoma arose in North America, from a hypothetical Holarctic common ancestor of Anisotoma and Agathidium, and spread into Palearctic and Central American regions. Taxonomic history, natural history, and methods are briefly discussed, and the following given where appropriate: synonymies, diagnoses, descriptions, natural histories, distributions, remarks, materials examined, maps, keys to species and species groups, illustrations, and habitus drawings. Lectotypes are designated for Horn, LeConte, Melsheimer and Portevin species as needed. A. obsoleta (Horn) is renamed A. homi due to preoccupation. The Japanese genus Eucyrta Portevin is reduced to a synonym of Anisotoma.
Analysis of Memory Interference in Multiprocessors

This paper presents Markov chain models for analyzing the extent of memory interference in multiprocessor systems with a crosspoint switch for processor-memory communication. Processor behavior is simplified to an ordered sequence of a memory request followed by a certain amount of processing time. The results predicted by the model are compared with some simulation results and some actual measurements on C.mmp, a multiprocessor system being built at Carnegie-Mellon University.
Correlates of use of different types of complementary and alternative medicine by breast cancer survivors in the nurses' health study.

Purpose Among breast cancer survivors, we identified the prevalence and correlates of use of different types of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).
Static and Dynamic Aeroelasticity of Advanced Aircraft Wings Carrying External Stores

A study of the static and dynamic aeroelasticity of aircraft wings carrying external stores is presented. The wing structure is modeled as a laminated composite plate exhibiting flexibility in transverse shear and including warping restraint effects. The relevant equations of motion and boundary conditions are obtained via Hamilton's variational principle and application of generalized function theory. To achieve a realistic representation of the store influence on static and dynamic behavior of the system, static weights, as well as dynamic inertias of the stores, are considered. For the problem at hand, three-dimensional strip theory aerodynamics is employed. The obtained eigenvalue/boundary value problems are being solved by application of the extended Galerkin method. The solution procedure is used to investigate the implications of external stores on static aeroelastic response, divergence, free vibration, and flutter. Comparisons with the very few results highlighting the effects of underwing and tip stores on flutter instability are carried out, and excellent agreements with the present predictions are reported.
Setup and use of a two-laser multiphoton microscope for multichannel intravital fluorescence imaging

Characterizing biological mechanisms dependent upon the interaction of many cell types in vivo requires both multiphoton microscope systems capable of expanding the number and types of fluorophores that can be imaged simultaneously while removing the wavelength and tunability restrictions of existing systems, and enhanced software for extracting critical cellular parameters from voluminous 4D data sets. We present a procedure for constructing a two-laser multiphoton microscope that extends the wavelength range of excitation light, expands the number of simultaneously usable fluorophores and markedly increases signal to noise via 'over-clocking' of detection. We also utilize a custom-written software plug-in that simplifies the quantitative tracking and analysis of 4D intravital image data. We begin by describing the optics, hardware, electronics and software required, and finally the use of the plug-in for analysis. We demonstrate the use of the setup and plug-in by presenting data collected via intravital imaging of a mouse model of breast cancer. The procedure may be completed in ∼24 h.
Dynamics of fluid and light intensity in mechanically stirred photobioreactor.

Abstract Turbulent flows in a single-stage and a two-stage impeller-stirred photobioreactor with a simple geometric configuration were analyzed using computational fluid dynamics. The trajectories of the microorganisms entrained in the flow field were traced by the particle tracking method. By projecting these trajectories onto a radial–axial ( r − z ) plane with a given azimuth angle, we were able to observe four different dynamics zones: circulation, pure rotation, trap, and slow-motion. Within the pure rotation zone, turbulence can be observed near the edges of the impeller. The light intensity and the light/dark cycles subjected by the microorganisms differ significantly in these zones. These differences can be further changed by providing different incident light illuminations on the reactor surface. The dynamics zones can be altered by modifying the geometric configuration of the reactor and the impeller stirring mechanism. In combination with the utilization of different incident light illuminations, the light intensity dynamics and the light/dark cycles subjected by the microorganisms can be controlled such that an optimal photobioreactor design with a high efficiency of light utilization and a high formation rate of the biochemical products can be realized.
Bohemia and economic geography

This paper examines the geography of bohemia and the relationships between it, human capital, and high-technology industries. The underlying hypothesis is that the presence and concentration of bohemians in an area creates an environment or milieu that attracts other types of talented or high human capital individuals. The presence of such human capital in turn attracts and generates innovative, technology-based industries. To explore these factors,
Introducing the concept of veterinary family practice.

Views: Commentary 1479 T rapid expansion of medical knowledge and technology following World War II led to the belief that a 4-year curriculum was no longer adequate for physician training. Postgraduate residency training in clinical specialties became the norm, and specialist certification became associated with increased prestige and was required to obtain hospital admitting privileges. The resulting dramatic decrease in the number of general practitioners led to the development of family medicine as a distinct specialty. Even to this day, however, family medicine garners less prestige and generates less income than do other physician specialties. In general, primarycare physicians earn less, take more appointments, and work longer hours than do other specialists, and the US Government Accounting Office reports that by 2020, demand for primary-care physicians will exceed supply. Health-care research has shown that primary care is more cost-effective than other types of health care and that preventive care, coordination of care for the chronically ill, and continuity of care—all hallmarks of family medicine—result in improved patient outcomes. In response, the human medical profession has begun to develop a greater interest in the concept of the patient-centered medical home (PCMH). The term was first introduced by the American Academy of Pediatrics in 1967, and a PCMH was originally envisioned as a central location for archiving a child’s medical record. The term now refers to a teambased health-care delivery model that provides comprehensive, continuous medical care to patients, with the goal of maximizing health outcomes. According to a set of joint principles developed by the American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Physicians, and American Osteopathic Association, a PCMH offers the following benefits: • Facilitates partnerships between patients, providers, and families. • Provides a route for receiving preventive, acute, chronic, and end-of-life services in one place. • Provides for a personal physician of choice who has a comprehensive knowledge of a patient’s medical conditions and coordinates care within an expanded health-care system. • Allows the practice to advocate for the patient to achieve optimal, patient-centered outcomes. Introducing the concept of veterinary family practice
Optical Properties Of Clouds And Aerosols Derived From Ground-Based Remote Sensing Methods

Simultaneous measurements using several types of remote sensing techniques have been analyzed and combined to yield data sets on the optical properties of clouds and aerosols. The parameters observed include (1) extinction at nine wavelengths in the 0.3-to-10.0 μm wavelength range as measured by solar radiometers, (2) the backscatter coefficient and depolarization as a function of range as measured by a pulsed ruby lidar, (3) the angular scattering function out to 8° from the sun as measured by an aureole photometer, and (4) the visual characteristics and identification of sky conditions obtained through time-lapse sky photography. The data are sorted according to the type of cloud or aerosol present as determined by lidar backscatter information (height profile and depolarization characteristics) and visual identification. Some results on optical properties are presented including the wavelength dependence of aerosol extinction, and preliminary data on angular scattering in the near-forward direction and wavelength dependence of extinction due to several types of clouds. Practical applications of the data include their use in design of optical propa-gation links and solar energy systems, and as input to computer models of atmospheric transmission.
ON THE VERTICAL DENSITY OF THE MULTIVARIATE EXPONENTIAL POWER DISTRIBUTION

Let be a random vector in with probability density . We show that the random variable has uniform distribution on . Our result generalizes previously derived special cases (the Laplace distribution) and (the uncorrelated bivariate normal distribution).
Use of nephrectomy at select medical centers--a case of follow the crowd?

Purpose: Regionalization of high risk surgical procedures to larger, teaching hospitals has been suggested as a means to improve the quality of care. We determined the extent to which the regionalization of nephrectomy has occurred and describe the potential causes and implications of any observed regionalization.Materials and Methods: The Nationwide Inpatient Sample comprises a 20% sampling of hospital discharges in the United States yearly. Patients undergoing nephrectomy for kidney cancer between 1988 and 2002 were identified using International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes. Regionalization was assessed using 6 structural hospital measures, including teaching status, urban location, discharge volume, nephrectomy volume, bed capacity and for-profit status. Adjusted models were developed to identify the significance of temporal trends in each regionalization measure.Results: We identified 66,621 patients undergoing nephrectomy during the study period. Compared to...
The Contributions of A. E. Freeman

Abstract Albert Eugene (Gene) Freeman completed his B.S. and M.S. degrees at University of West Virginia in 1952 and 1954, and his Ph.D. at Cornell University in 1957. In 1957, he started his professional career at Iowa State University and since 1978 has served as Charles F. Curtiss Distinguished Professor of Agriculture in the Animal Science Department. His major contributions have been the graduate students he trained; the research he has guided, conducted, and reported; the counsel on genetic improvement he has offered; and leadership of industry and academia he has provided. Freeman guided more than 55 students through Ph.D. and/or M.S. programs. These students came from many different parts of the world and a number are now in positions of leadership. They are primarily employed on university faculties and in the genetic improvement industry. Freeman's research has covered a vast range of topics and has involved a number of experimental approaches. His research has formed the basis of major improvements in dairy cattle breeding practices. He has provided leadership to the animal breeding group at Ames, the long-term regional breeding projects conducted across the Unitred States, the American Dairy Science Association, and the World Congress on Genetics Applied to Livestock Production. In recognition of his many accomplishments, he has received numerous major awards from a variety of organizations. Freeman has made a significant impact on the genetic improvement of food-producing animals worldwide through his research and counsel and through the students he has trained.
Acute respiratory failure in children

Acute respiratory failure is the most common medical emergency in children. One aim of this review is to discuss the physiologic peculiarities that explain the increased vulnerability of infants and children to any pathology affecting the respiratory tract. The other aim is to highlight the importance of history taking and correct physical examination for early recognition of an impending catastrophic progression of respiratory failure. Under most circumstances, correct physical examination alone allows one to pinpoint the cause to a particular part of the respiratory system and to make the appropriate decisions for a proactive and life-saving management of the critically ill child.
Auditory and phonetic processes in place perception for stops

Use of the selective adaptation procedure with speech stimuli has led to a number of theoretical positions with regard to the level or levels of processing affected by adaptation. Recent experiments (i.e., Sawusch & Jusczyk, 1981) have, however, yielded strong evidence that only auditory coding processes are affected by selective adaptation. In the present experiment, a test series that varied along the phonetic dimension of place of articulation for stops ([da]-[ga]) was used in conjunction with a [ska] syllable that shared the phonetic value of velar with the [ga] end of the test series but had a spectral structure that closely matched a stimulus from the [da] end of the series. As an adaptor, the [ska] and Ida] stimuli produced identical effects, whereas in a paired-comparison procedure, the [ska] produced effects consistent with its phonetic label. These results offer further support for the contention that selective adaptation affects only the auditory coding of speech, whereas the paired-comparison procedure affects only the phonetic coding of speech. On the basis of these results and previous place-adaptation results, a process model of speech perception is described.
Delivery of primary care to women. Do women's health centers do it better?

OBJECTIVE: Women’s health centers have been increasing in number but remain relatively unstudied. We examined patient expectations and quality of care at a hospital-based women’s health center compared with those at a general medicine clinic. DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey. SETTING: University hospital-affiliated women’s health and general internal medicine clinics. PARTICIPANTS: An age-stratified random sample of 2,000 women over 18 years of age with at least two visits to either clinic in the prior 24 months. We confined the analysis to 706 women respondents who identified themselves as primary care patients of either clinic. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Personal characteristics, health care utilization, preferences and expectations for care, receipt of preventive services, and satisfaction with provider and clinic were assessed for all respondents. Patients obtaining care at the general internal medicine clinic were older and had more chronic diseases and functional limitations than patients receiving care at the women’s health center. Women’s health center users (n=357) were more likely than general medicine clinic users (n=349) to prefer a female provider (57% vs 32%, p=.0001) and to have sought care at the clinic because of its focus on women’s health (49% vs 17%, p=.0001). After adjusting for age and self-assessed health status, women’s health center users were significantly more likely to report having had mammography (odds ratio [OR] 4.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1, 15.2) and cholesterol screening (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.0, 2,6) but significantly less likely to report having undergone flexible sigmoidoscopy (OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.3, 0.9). There were no significant differences between the clinics on receipt of counseling about hormone replacement therapy or receipt of Pap smear, or in satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that, at least in this setting, women’s health centers provide care to younger women and those with fewer chronic medical conditions and may meet a market demand. While the quality of gender-specific preventive care may be modestly better in women’s health centers, the quality of general preventive care may be better in general medical clinics.
Quantifying aboveground forest carbon pools and fluxes from repeat LiDAR surveys

Abstract Sound forest policy and management decisions to mitigate rising atmospheric CO 2 depend upon accurate methodologies to quantify forest carbon pools and fluxes over large tracts of land. LiDAR remote sensing is a rapidly evolving technology for quantifying aboveground biomass and thereby carbon pools; however, little work has evaluated the efficacy of repeat LiDAR measures for spatially monitoring aboveground carbon pools through time. Our study objective was therefore to evaluate the use of discrete return airborne LiDAR for quantifying biomass change and carbon flux from repeat field and LiDAR surveys. We collected LiDAR data in 2003 and 2009 across ~ 20,000 ha of an actively managed, mixed conifer forest landscape in northern Idaho. The Random Forest machine learning algorithm was used to impute aboveground biomass pools of trees, saplings, shrubs, herbaceous plants, coarse and fine woody debris, litter, and duff using field-based forest inventory data and metrics derived from the LiDAR collections. Separate predictive tree aboveground biomass models were developed from the 2003 and 2009 field and LiDAR data, and biomass change was estimated at the plot, pixel, and landscape levels by subtracting 2003 predictions from 2009 predictions. Traditional stand exam data were used to independently validate 2003 and 2009 tree aboveground biomass predictions and tree aboveground biomass change estimates at the stand level. Over this 6-year period, we found a mean increase in tree aboveground biomass due to forest growth across the non-harvested portions of 4.1 Mg/ha/yr. We found that 26.3% of the landscape had been harvested during this time period which outweighed growth at the landscape level, resulting in a net tree aboveground biomass change of − 5.7 Mg/ha/yr, and − 2.3 Mg/ha/yr in total aboveground carbon, summed across all the aboveground biomass pools. Change in aboveground biomass was related to forest successional status; younger stands gained two- to three-fold less biomass than did more mature stands. This result suggests that even the most mature forest stands are valuable carbon sinks, and implies that forest management decisions that include longer harvest rotation cycles are likely to favor higher levels of aboveground carbon storage in this system. A 30-fold difference in LiDAR sampling density between the 2003 and 2009 collections did not affect plot-scale biomass estimation. These results suggest that repeat LiDAR surveys are useful for accurately quantifying high resolution, spatially explicit biomass and carbon dynamics in conifer forests.
Effects of Dropping the Requirement for Goblet Cells From the Diagnosis of Barrett's Esophagus

Background & Aims The 2011 American Gastroenterological Association diagnostic criteria for Barrett's esophagus (BE) require the presence of goblet cells in biopsy specimens of columnar mucosa within the esophagus. In other countries, patients can be diagnosed with BE based on evidence of columnar epithelium, regardless of the presence of goblet cells. We examined the effects that a broader criteria would have on diagnoses of patients with endoscopically suspected BE. We also compared the clinical outcomes of patients with and without goblet cells in esophageal biopsy samples. Methods We analyzed the University of Chicago Medical Center database to identify 690 patients with no previous history of BE who underwent endoscopic biopsy analysis for BE from 1987 to 2008. We collected endoscopy reports, histology results, and chart reviews. Results Of biopsy specimens analyzed, samples from 258 patients contained goblet cells and 379 did not (53 of the biopsy samples contained only squamous mucosa). Patients whose biopsy samples contained goblet cells had longer endoscopic columnar segments (mean, 4.6 cm) and more biopsy specimens taken (mean, 5 biopsy specimens) than those without (mean length, 1.6 cm; mean, 4 biopsy specimens). Of patients whose biopsy specimens did not contain goblet cells, 35% underwent additional endoscopy; goblet cells continued to be absent in 88% of these (mean follow-up time, 5.8 y; 2.8 additional procedures; mean total biopsy specimens, 12). Goblet cells were identified in only 19% of all patients with columnar mucosa less than 2 cm. No patient without goblet cells developed adenocarcinoma. Conclusions Decreasing the requirement for goblet cells would increase the diagnosis of BE by 147%. Among patients with short columnar segments, subsequent endoscopy generally does not reveal goblet cells, so the columnar mucosa might represent proximal stomach. Decreasing the requirement for goblet cells would cause many patients to be inaccurately labeled as BE.
Automated lung segmentation in digital posteroanterior and lateral chest radiographs: Applications in diagnostic radiology and nuclear medicine

Automated segmentation of anatomic regions in digital radiographs is a key element of computer-aided diagnostic(CAD) methods. Computerized methods for automatically segmenting the aerated lung fields from digital posteroanterior (PA) and lateral chest radiographs have been developed. The methods are based on gray-level thresholding techniques, including iterative global gray-level thresholding and local gray-level thresholding, thus reducing the need for a priori assumptions regarding overall lung morphology. Consequently, this method is particularly applicable to the detection of abnormal asymmetry in PA radiographs, where pathological processes may produce gross alterations in the appearance of radiographiclunganatomy. An anatomic region of particular interest is the costophrenic angle. The method described lends itself to the automated assessment of costophrenic angle blunting, for which a technique has been developed. Another application of this method crosses into the field of nuclear medicine. Radionuclide lung scans are typically used in conjunction with chest radiographs for diagnostic purposes. An automated method for registering digital PA and lateral chest radiographs with the perfusion and ventilation images of a lung scan has been developed. These computerized techniques may be incorporated into future CAD schemes and may potentially aid radiologists in the interpretation and assessment of medical images.
MAPk Activation Modulates Permeability of Isolated Rat Alveolar Epithelial Cell Monolayers Following Cyclic Stretch

We cultured (5 days) rat alveolar epithelial cells to investigate the role of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPk) signaling in ventilator induced epithelial barrier dysfunction. Cells were stretched to a magnitude of 12% or 37% change in surface area at a rate of 0.25 Hz with and without pretreatment with either the JNK inhibitor SP600125 or the ERK inhibitor U0126. Following stretch (0, 10, 30, or 60 min), MAPk phosphorylation was examined, monolayer permeability to the uncharged tracer carboxyfluorescein measured (0, 10, 60 min of stretch), and occludin expression determined (0 and 60 min of stretch). Stretch to 12%, previously shown not to increase monolayer permeability, did not alter phosphorylation of any MAPk or occludin expression at any time point. Following stretch to 37%, phosphorylation of JNK, ERK, and p38 was significantly higher by 10 minutes than in unstretched monolayers. Phosphorylation of JNK and p38 subsided as stretch continued, and by 30 minutes returned to unstretched levels. Phosphorylation of ERK remained significantly elevated compared to unstretched levels at all stretch durations. Epithelial permeability increased significantly by 10 minutes of stretch compared to unstretched controls, with further significant increases by 60 minutes. Inhibition with U0126 and SP600125 prevented stretch-induced phosphorylation increases of ERK and JNK, respectively, however neither prevented increases in permeability following 10 minutes. Separately, inhibition of JNK or ERK prevented subsequent additional permeability increases as stretch continued to 60 minute time points. Inhibition of JNK, not ERK, prevented loss of occludin, and minimized loss of cell-cell contact following 60 minutes of stretch. These data suggest that stretch-induced JNK signaling modulates epithelial permeability through regulation tight junction protein expression, and is a potential target for clinical treatments during mechanical ventilation.
The effect of environment on the sustained load crack growth rates of forged WASPALOY

The sustained load crack growth rates of wrought WASPALOY* were measured in air and in high purity argon at 650 °C using single edge notched (SEN) and compact tension (CT) specimens machined out of a turbine disk. The crack growth rates measured in air exhibited great variability across the WASPALOY disk, while the crack growth rates measured in purified argon were of the same order of magnitude. This difference in crack growth rates is attributed to local variations in oxidation resistance at the tip of the growing crack. The density and the distribution of carbides in different locations of the WASPALOY disk accounts for the variability in crack growth resistance in air.
Laser modulation of human immune system: Inhibition of lymphocyte proliferation by a gallium-arsenide laser at low energy

Cultured human lymphocytes were subjected to irradiation with a gallium-arsenide laser at energy fluence varying from 2.17 to 651 mJ/cm2, and the cell proliferation was assessed by [3H]thymidine incorporation. Both mitogenic proliferation in response to phytohemagglutinin and spontaneous cell proliferation were markedly inhibited by the laser irradiation at energy fluence as low as 10.85 mJ/cm2. Similarly, the functional response of cells to antigen stimulation in a one-way mixed-lymphocyte reaction was also diminished as a result of laser irradiation. The results indicate that laser irradiation at low energy can interfere with immune system in vitro, and similar modulation could potentially occur in human subjects exposed to laser irradiation in vivo.
A predictor variable for efficacy of Lagenidium giganteum produced in solid-state cultivation.

was cultivated on solid media in the absence of free water and evaluated for efficacy against second-instar Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae in 100-ml bioassays. Bioassay variables included level of media addition, CO2 evolution rate (CER) and cell density. Logistic regression was performed on bioassay infection observations to determine if the tested variables were correlated to the probability of attaining at least 80% infection. Both CER (p=0.003) and number of cells (p=0.017) were significantly correlated, while level of media addition was not (p=0.42). Although media addition did not correlate with efficacy, media levels greater than 2 g/l reduced water clarity and infection. Media from cultures younger than 3 days performed poorly under all conditions tested. Journal of Industrial Microbiology & Biotechnology (2001) 27, 203–207.
Dynamo-optical properties of detergent micelles

Abstract Rodlike micelles formed in aqueous salt solutions of several n -alkyltrimethylammonium bromides have a size which increases with the KBr concentration and length of the hydrocarbon tail. The C 14 micelles are too small to be oriented in the streaming liquid while the larger C 16 and C 18 micelles are readily oriented. The large birefringence arises primarily from the form anisotropy and high degree of orientation of the particles, the intrinsic anisotropy being negative and independent of salt concentration or chain length. The addition of glycerol to the detergent solutions decreases the micelle size and resulting birefringence but does not affect the intrinsic anisotropy of the micelle. It appears that this decrease in size is not accompanied by any other changes in the structure of the micelle. The observations are in accord with the Peterlin-Stuart orientation theory which accounts for the size, shape, and optical properties of the solute particles.
Ehrlichial diseases of dogs.

Ehrlichial diseases of dogs currently are recognized to be caused by Ehrlichia canis, Ehrlichia platys, Ehrlichia equi, and Ehrlichia risticii. Information on each disease’s history, transmission, pathogenesis, clinicopathologic findings, diagnosis, therapy, and prevention is presented in this article. Ehrlichia canis is the most common cause of clinical illness. Case reports are included to illustrate common presentations of Ehrlichia canis infections.
Maternal serum fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4) and the development of preeclampsia.

Context: Serum fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4) is associated with components of the metabolic syndrome in nonpregnant individuals, including dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. Preeclampsia shares many features with the metabolic syndrome, but the relationship between early pregnancy serum FABP4 levels and the development of preeclampsia is unknown. Objective: The aim of the study was to test the hypothesis that FABP4 is elevated in women who develop preeclampsia before the onset of disease. Study Design: This was a nested case-control study within a larger prospective cohort of healthy women with singleton gestations. Cases included 22 women who developed preeclampsia, and a random sample of 72 unmatched controls delivered without preeclampsia was identified. Maternal serum FABP4 was measured at less than 13 wk gestation and 24–28 wk gestation, which was before the onset of preeclampsia in all patients. Main Outcome Measures: The main outcome measure was preeclampsia (new-onset gestational hyperten...
Is there empirical evidence for a nonverbal profile of extraversion?: a meta‐analysis and critique of the literature

It has long been recognized in the nonverbal communication literature that individual differences in extraversion are expected to be most clearly evident in expressive forms of nonverbal behavior. Although several studies designed to examine the correlation between extraversion and nonverbal behavior have been conducted, most attempts to summarize these studies reflect the inconsistent nature of the research findings. Indeed, correlations range from −.36 to .73. The extant literature summaries are limited to narrative reviews, however, which tend to be highly selective. The purpose of this study was to meta‐analyze the relevant studies. Results indicated that the mean correlation coefficient weighted for sample size was .13 for the entire sample of studies. Although 63% of the variance was attributable to sampling error, the distribution of correlations was heterogeneous. The remaining variance was due to two methodological artifacts: sample size and the number of nonverbal behaviors coded. For example, h...
The relationship between spontaneous gestures of the hearing and American Sign Language

This paper presents evidence of non-manual gestures in American Sign Language (ASL). The types of gestures identified are identical to non-manual, spontaneous gestures used by hearing non-signers which suggests that the gestures co-occurring with ASL signs are borrowings from hearing culture. A comparison of direct quotes in ASL with spontaneous movements of hearing non-signers suggests a history of borrowing and eventual grammaticization in ASL of features previously thought to be unique to signed languages. The electronic edition of this article includes audio-visial data.
Quality of life of adults with chronic illness: a psychometric study.

Reliability and validity of the Flanagan Quality of Life Scale (QOLS) were tested in four chronic illness groups. Open-ended questions and four instruments, the QOLS, Duke-UNC Health Profile (DUHP), Life Satisfaction Index (LSI-Z), and either the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales (AIMS) or the Ostomy Adjustment Scale (OAS) were administered by telephone interview and mailed questionnaires to 227 adults three times over 6 weeks. Subjects generated verbal responses that substantiated the content validity of the QOLS. Stability reliability estimates for all instruments ranged from .53 to .90. Cronbach's alpha coefficients averaged .87 for the QOLS. Appropriate validity coefficients indicated both convergent and discriminant construct validity.
Differential K+ Channel Clustering Activity of PSD-95 and SAP97, Two Related Membrane-associated Putative Guanylate Kinases

Abstract The molecular mechanisms underlying the clustering and localization of K+ channels in specific microdomains on the neuronal surface are largely unknown. The Shaker subclass of voltage-gated K+ channel α-subunits interact through their cytoplasmic C-terminus with a family of membrane-associated putative guanylate kinases, including PSD-95 and SAP97. We show here that heterologous coexpression of either SAP97 or PSD-95 with various Shaker-type subunits results in the coclustering of these proteins with the K+ channels. Mutation of the C-terminal sequence (-ETDV) of the Shaker subunit Kv1.4 abolishes its binding to, and prevents its clustering with, SAP97 and PSD-95. Whereas PSD-95 induces plaque-like clusters of K+ channels at the cell surface; however, SAP97 coexpression results in the formation of large round intracellular aggregates into which both SAP97 and the K+ channel proteins are colocalized. The efficiency of surface clustering by PSD-95 varies with different Shaker subunits: striking Kv1.4 clustering occurs in >60% of cotransfected cells, whereas Kv1.1 and Kv1.2 form convincing clusters with PSD-95 only in approximately 10% of cells. Copyright © 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd
Laparoscopic Versus Open Appendectomy: Outcomes Comparison Based on a Large Administrative Database

Objective: To compare length of hospital stay, in-hospital complications, in-hospital mortality, and rate of routine discharge between laparoscopic and open appendectomy based on a representative, nationwide database.
Rapid Identification of Antibacterial Agents Effective against Staphylococcus aureus Using Small-Molecule Macroarrays

There is an urgent, global need for the development of new antibacterial agents. We have applied the small-molecule macroarray approach to the synthesis and screening of antibacterial compounds active against the Gram-positive pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. Several macroarrays of 1,3-diphenyl-2-propen-1-ones (chalcones), cyanopyridines, and pyrimidines were synthesized on a planar cellulose support system on the order of days. This support system was found to be highly compatible with antibacterial assay formats, including disk-diffusion and agar-overlay visualization methods. Further, sufficient compound was isolated from each spot of the macroarray for both compound characterization and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) estimation. Analysis of the small-molecule macroarrays in these assays uncovered a set of antibacterial agents with in vitro MIC values against methicillin-resistant S. aureus comparable to certain antibacterial drugs in use today.
The role of cytoplasmic dynein in the human brain developmental disease lissencephaly.

Abstract Lissencephaly is a brain developmental disorder characterized by disorganization of the cortical regions resulting from defects in neuronal migration. Recent evidence has implicated the human LIS-1 gene in Miller–Dieker lissencephaly and isolated lissencephaly sequence. LIS-1 is homologous to the fungal genes NudF and PAC1, which are involved in cytoplasmic dynein mediated nuclear transport, but it is also almost identical to a subunit of PAF acetylhydrolase, an enzyme which inactivates the lipid mediator platelet activating factor. Recent evidence from our laboratory has revealed that cytoplasmic dynein coimmunoprecipitates with LIS-1 in bovine brain cytosol, supporting a role in the dynein pathway in vertebrates. Overexpression of LIS-1 interferes with cell division, with noteworthy effects on chromosome attachment to the mitotic spindle and on the interaction of astral microtubules with the cell cortex. Other aspects of dynein function, such as the organization of the Golgi apparatus, are not affected. Together, these results suggest a role for LIS-1 in cytoplasmic dynein functions involving microtubule plus-ends. Furthermore, they suggest that mutations in LIS-1 may produce a lissencephalic phenotype either by interfering with the movement of neuronal nuclei within extending processes, or by interference with the division cycle of neuronal progenitor cells in the ventricular and subventricular zones of the developing nervous system.
Distributed proximity effect correction on a network of workstations

Proximity effect caused by electron scattering imposes a severe limitation on the ultimate resolution attainable with E-beam lithography. In most of the correction schemes proposed so far, the correction time is dependent on the number of circuit primitives. Correction of realistic circuit patterns containing a large number of primitives is severely limited due to the time-consuming nature of proximity effect correction and the computer memory required on a workstation. This problem continues to pose more and more challenges as the circuit size and density continue to increase. It is proposed to perform proximity effect correction in a distributed manner using a network of workstations as an efficient solution.
Nerve growth factor affects cyclic AMP metabolism, but not by directly stimulating adenylate cyclase activity.

: Published experiments both support and contradict the hypothesis that nerve growth factor (NGF) can regulate adenylate cyclase activity. Using a sensitive assay that measures the conversion of [2-3H]adenine to [3H]cyclic AMP, we have shown that NGF alone cannot measurably stimulate cyclic AMP production, whereas the adenosine analog phenylisopropyladenosine (PIA) stimulates adenylate cyclase 20-fold over basal activity. NGF potentiates the capacity of both PIA and cholera toxin to stimulate cyclic AMP accumulation at all concentrations tested. This potentiation occurs at the earliest measurable times and does not require RNA synthesis. Therefore, we conclude that cyclase activation alone does not account for the effect of NGF on cyclic AMP accumulation and we discuss possible mechanisms.
Formulation of current density weighted indices for correspondence between functional MRI and electrocortical stimulation maps.

Abstract Objective Accurate localization of functionally significant brain regions reduces risks of post-operative neurological deficits. The gold standard for presurgical brain mapping is subdural electrocortical stimulation (ECS), which is an open-cranium surgical procedure. Functional MRI (fMRI) may be a noninvasive alternative if it can be shown that fMRI and ECS maps are spatially consistent. We formulate new 3D current density weighted ECS–fMRI correspondence indices and illustrate their use on human data. Methods Current density maps were computed for simulated and human datasets by solving the electrostatic Laplace equation. The proposed indices were characterized and compared with fixed radii and Euclidean distance indices. Results Results from simulated datasets showed that the proposed indices quantify correspondence between fMRI and the ECS truth predictably, and provide conspicuous sensitivity increase from fixed radii indices, whereas Euclidean distances may not be suitable measures of the correspondence. Conclusions The proposed indices reflect contextual information from surrounding electrodes and may be physiologically more meaningful in evaluating ECS–fMRI correspondence. Significance To identify safe limits of resection, an ECS map requires placement of electrodes on a patient’s brain. Our proposed indices accurately quantify ECS–fMRI correspondence and may be used to evaluate fMRI as a noninvasive alternative for defining resection limits.
Targeting Threats to the Therapeutic Alliance: A Primer for Marriage and Family Therapy Training

Although theory and research highlight the importance of the client-therapist relationship, marriage and family therapy (MFT) training has historically centered on specific models, consisting of proprietary language and techniques, instead of common factors like the therapeutic alliance. In this article, we begin by making an argument for explicitly focusing on the therapeutic alliance in MFT training programs. Next, we highlight common alliance threats experienced by both faculty members and student therapists. We then integrate research-informed principles with clinical wisdom to outline specific recommendations and concrete skill-building exercises for MFT educators and supervisors to use with their students to address these threats and advance training on the therapeutic alliance.
Randomized phase II study of atrasentan alone or in combination with zoledronic acid in men with metastatic prostate cancer

BACKGROUND. Metastatic prostate cancer is characterized by the presence of osteoblastic bone metastases. Bone metastases account for most of the morbidity from this disease. Inhibition of osteoclast activity with the potent bisphosphonate zoledronic acid reduces skeletal complications and decreases serum levels of biochemical bone turnover markers compared with placebo. Atrasentan is an investigational agent that inhibits endothelin-1 receptor, resulting in decreased osteoblast activity. METHODS. The effects of atrasentan alone versus combination therapy with atrasentan and zoledronic acid were investigated on bone turnover markers in men with bone metastases from prostate cancer. Forty-four men were randomized to receive either atrasentan alone or combination therapy, and 33 completed at least 12 weeks of treatment and were included in the primary analysis. RESULTS. Treatment with the combination resulted in significantly lower serum levels of N-telopeptide, a marker of bone resorption, compared with treatment with atrasentan alone. There was no difference between groups in serum levels of bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, a marker of bone formation, at 12 weeks. Commonly observed adverse effects were edema, rhinitis, fatigue, and shortness of breath, most of which were NCI CTC (version 3.0) Grade 1. No Grade 4 or 5 treatment-related toxicities were observed. There was minimal clinical efficacy, with no objective responses and only 1 prostate-specific antigen (PSA) response. CONCLUSIONS. There is no evidence for additive or synergistic effects of combination therapy with atrasentan and zoledronic acid on bone turnover markers in men with metastatic prostate cancer. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Effects of External Bleaching on Indentation and Abrasion Characteristics of Human Enamel in vitro

The application of home-bleaching procedures as a means of lightening multiple teeth has become increasingly popular. Very few studies, however, have determined the effect of this treatment upon dental hard tissues. This in vitro study evaluated the effects of a 10% carbamide peroxide gel on the apparent fracture toughness, hardness, and abrasion characteristics of human enamel. The apparent fracture toughness of enamel was reduced by about 30% after bleaching for a period of 12 hours with no significant change in surface hardness. Enamel treated with the bleaching gels also exhibited a small but significant decrease in abrasion resistance. This behavior was most likely due to an alteration of the organic matrix of enamel under the chemical action of hydrogen peroxide. Further investigation of the clinical significance of this process is needed.
Death Heaping in Vital Statistics.

Several authors have maintained that there tends to be a practice in statistical record keeping for an individual's age to be rounded off to the nearest digit ending in zero or five. This practice ...