cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Making surgical missions a joint operation: NGO experiences of visiting surgical teams and the formal health care system in Guatemala.

Each year, thousands of Guatemalans receive non-emergent surgical care from short-term medical missions (STMMs) hosted by local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and staffed by foreign visiting medical teams (VMTs). The purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives of individuals based in NGOs involved in the coordination of surgical missions to better understand how these missions articulate with the larger Guatemalan health care system. During the summers of 2011 and 2013, in-depth interviews were conducted with 25 representatives from 11 different Guatemalan NGOs with experience with surgical missions. Transcripts were analysed for major themes using an inductive qualitative data analysis process. NGOs made use of the formal health care system but were limited by several factors, including cost, issues of trust and current ministry of health policy. Participants viewed the government health care system as a potential resource and expressed a desire for more collaboration. The current practi...
Investigating a Method of Scaffolding Student-Designed Experiments

The process of designing an experiment is a difficult one. Students often struggle to perform such tasks as the design process places a large cognitive load on students. Scaffolding is the process of providing support for a student to allow them to complete tasks they would otherwise not have been able to complete. This study sought to investigate backwards-design, one form of scaffolding the experimental design process for students. Students were guided through the design process in a backwards manner (designing the results section first and working backwards through typical report components to the materials and safety sections). The use of reflective prompts as possible scaffold for metacognitive processes was also studied. Scaffolding was in the form of a computer application built specifically for this purpose. Four versions of the computer application were randomly assigned to 102 high school chemistry students and students were asked to the design of an experiment, producing a report. The use of backwards-design scaffolding resulted in significantly higher performance on lab reports. The addition of reflective prompts reduced the effect of backwards-design scaffolding in lower-level students.
Irreducible dorsal dislocation of the distal interphalangeal joint of the finger

Two patients with irreducible dislocation of the distal interphalangeal joint underwent surgical exploration. In each patient the volar plate, having been disrupted proximally, was trapped between the joint surfaces, preventing closed reduction.
"Victimhood" and the Implementation of Sexual Harassment Policy

This article explores a critical policy conundrum Most organizations have sexual harassment policies, most employees are aware of such policies; there appears to be widespread agreement regarding the behaviors which constitute sexual harassment, and, substantial numbers of employees experience sexual harassment Yet, formal reporting rates are extremely low Several alternative "causes" of this conundrum are explored, that employees are not knowledgeable about procedures, that they prefer informal solutions, that victims fear or know of negative reactions to complaints, that incidents were judged to be too "minor" to warrant complaint, or that victims are reluctant to acknowledge that they are indeed victims of sexual harassment. Survey responses from employees in two public sector organizations indicate that fear of possible negative consequences and an unwillingness to admit to "victimhood" reduce formal reporting and hence represent roadblocks to full implementation of sexual harassment policies.
Practices and Perceptions of Food Safety Among Seniors Who Prepare Meals at Home

Abstract Given senior citizens' vulnerability for foodborne illness, a need exists to determine the necessity and focus for education. Focus groups at senior centers reveal that the seniors (N=74) who prepare more than five meals a week at home use both inappropriate and appropriate practices to cook, cool, and thaw foods. Seniors rely on the distant past for knowledge and identify barriers to altering practices but state that information from educators about the health effects of inappropriate practices will convince them to change. For future food safety education, seniors recommend programs, videotapes, television, newspapers, radio, church bulletins, and written educational pieces.
Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies Present New Prospects to Counter Highly Antigenically Diverse Viruses

Certain human pathogens avoid elimination by our immune system by rapidly mutating the surface protein sites targeted by antibody responses, and consequently they tend to be problematic for vaccine development. The behavior described is prominent for a subset of viruses--the highly antigenically diverse viruses--which include HIV, influenza, and hepatitis C viruses. However, these viruses do harbor highly conserved exposed sites, usually associated with function, which can be targeted by broadly neutralizing antibodies. Until recently, not many such antibodies were known, but advances in the field have enabled increasing numbers to be identified. Molecular characterizations of the antibodies and, most importantly, of the sites of vulnerability that they recognize give hope for the discovery of new vaccines and drugs.
Growth and morphology of triglycine sulphate (TGS) crystals

Etude de l'influence de differents types d'impuretes (Cs, Ce et L-alanine) sur la croissance en solution et l'habitus de cristaux TGS. L'effet le plus spectaculaire est obtenu par dopage avec Cs et codopage avec Cs et la L-alanine
Of mentors, mentoring, and extracellular matrix.

D. Montgomery Bissell briefly describes the way he came to a career in academic medicine, how he found mentors, initial projects, and finally a focus on matrix biology and hepatic fibrosis. He draws some lessons from the experience, which should have relevance for physician-scientist trainees, those considering that path, anyone with responsibility for training the next generation, institutional leaders, and the National Institutes of Health. (HEPATOLOGY 2009;50:1330–1338.)
Sreels Analysis of Oxygen-Rich Inversion Domain Boundaries in Aluminum Nitride

Spatially resolved electron energy loss spectroscopy analysis has been conducted on planar inversion domain boundaries in aluminum nitride. The defects were found to contain 1.5 monolayers of oxygen, in agreement with the most recent structural model of Westwood. From variations in near-edge structure, the local atomic environments of both oxygen and aluminum are compared with α-A1203, γ-A1203 and γ-AION standards. Based upon this study the stnrcture of the inversion domain boundary is found to resemble that of the cubic γ-AION spinel, and eliminates from consideration those structural models based upon ai-Al203. Furthermore, quantification of the shape resonances provided Al-O bond-length data from the inversion domain boundary interface. These distances closely agree with the Youngman Model that has recently been further refined by Westwood et al.
Multidimensional inverse heat conduction using alternative Green's function solution

Abstract The alternative Green's function solution is used to solve multidimensional inverse conduction problems. It produces stable and accurate solutions which require no regularizations. A procedure is described for bodies with standard geometrical shapes. The method requires selecting a set of functions that describes all available information, including known and unknown boundary conditions. The method of selection of functions that describes the physical phenomena is presented. A numerical example is used to elaborate on the procedure.
Pathways to homelessness among the mentally ill.

Background: Persons with mental illness are over-represented among the homeless relative to the general population, and mental illness is most likely one of many vulnerabilities that confer risk for homelessness. Method: This paper elucidates the pathways to homelessness for persons with mental illness by comparing and contrasting groups of mentally ill homeless persons, non-mentally ill homeless persons, and housed mentally ill persons drawn from RAND's Course of Homelessness (COH) study and the Epidemiological Catchment Area (ECA) survey. Results: Homeless persons share childhood histories of economic and social disadvantage. The mentally ill homeless appear to have a “double dose” of disadvantage: poverty with the addition of childhood family instability and violence. Among the mentally ill homeless, those who became homeless prior to becoming mentally ill have the highest levels of disadvantage and disruption; while those who become homeless after becoming ill have an especially high prevalence of alcohol dependence. Conclusions: Mental illness may play a role in initiating homelessness for some, but is unlikely in and of itself to be a sufficient risk factor for homelessness. In addition to outreach and treatment programs for adult mentally ill homeless persons, emphasis should be placed on interventions with children and on addressing more pervasive causes of homelessness.
Relation of thyroid hormone secretion rate (TSR) in rats and fowl to hormone content of their thyroid glands.

Abstract By the determination of thyroid hormone secretion rate (TSR), the amount of l -thyroxine ( l -T 4 ) secreted each 24 hr has been estimated. An attempt has been made in this study to determine by bioassay the relation of the daily TSR to the amount of stored hormone (thyroglobulin) in the thyroid of the rat and chicken in terms of l -T 4 equivalents. The individual TSR of 28 rats and 36 chickens was determined. Two animals having the same TSR were grouped as the donor and recipient of the thyroid homogenate. To bioassay the l -T 4 equivalents of donor thyroids, recipient rats and chickens were injected with graded levels of the thyroid homogenate until release of thyroidal 131 I was blocked according to the technique used in the estimation of TSR. Mean l -T 4 equivalents in the thyroids of donor rats and chickens were 13.9 and 154.4 μg with a daily secretion of 3.58 and 27.98 μg, respectively. The amount of l -T 4 equivalent in the thyroid homogenate was 3.82 ± 0.35 times the daily TSR in rats and 5.56 ± 0.23 times in chickens ( P l -T 4 equivalents stored in the thyroid in terms of daily TSR.
Depolarization Differentially Regulates the Effects of Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP)‐2, BMP‐6, and Activin A on Sympathetic Neuronal Phenotype

As a first step in defining the role of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily in the development of the sympathetic nervous system, we analyzed effects of several members of this family on neuronal gene expression in dissociated cell culture using a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction method. We found that, in addition to activin A, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-2 and BMP-6 also induce mRNAs for distinct sets of neuropeptides and neurotransmitter synthetic enzymes in sympathetic neurons. TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 are, however, without detectable effect in this assay. Surprisingly, we find that the patterns of neuropeptide genes induced by activin A, BMP-2, and BMP-6 are each affected differently by neuronal depolarization. Depolarization can either promote or block the effects of different cytokines on the same neuropeptide gene, and depolarization can either promote or block the effects of a given cytokine on different neuropeptide genes. This evidence suggests that neuronal activity may be a key mediator of cytokine modulation of neuronal gene expression.
Modification of amino acid and sugar transport in uncoupler-adapted Euglena gracilis.

Uncoupler-adaptedEuglena gracilis have a greatly impaired capacity to take up and incorporate some exogenously supplied amino acids and sugars. The degree of inhibition varies widely from >90% in the case of valine or glucose to none in the case of histidine. The inhibition is due to a decreased activity of the transport mechanism itself and is not due to either a lesion in the control mechanism for endogenous amino acid or sugar synthesis nor to a direct inhibition of the transport mechanism by uncouplers. No preferential labeling of mitochondrial membranes by [14C]amino acids occurs during the process of adaptation, a time when no cell division occurs. Apparently, during the long time required for adaptation, there occurs no major modification of mitochondrial proteins which could explain the subsequent resistance to uncouplers.
The 50% male bias for SIDS: Commentary on Thach et al., Heredity, December 2009; 103: 469-475.

The 50% male bias for SIDS: Commentary on Thach et al. , Heredity , December 2009; 103: 469–475
NH3 formation over a Lean NOx Trap (LNT) system: effects of lean/rich cycle timing and temperature

Abstract A commercial lean NOX trap (LNT) catalyst containing Pt, Pd, Rh, BaO, and CeO2 was evaluated in this investigation. The effects of lean/rich cycle timing on the NOX, CO and C3H6 conversions and on the NH3 and N2O selectivities were considered. Two distinct lean/rich cycling regimes were identified. At low temperatures, NOX release and reduction were relatively slow processes. As a result, a longer, lower-concentration rich dose favored increased cycle averaged NOX conversions. For example, extending the rich period from 5 to 15 s at 250 °C, while holding the overall reductant dose constant, resulted in an increase in cycle averaged NOX conversion from 59 to 87%. At high temperatures, the opposite was found to be true. Above 450 °C, NOX release and reduction occurred very rapidly and shorter, higher concentration rich doses yielded significantly higher NOX conversions. For example, extending the rich period from 5 to 15 s at 500 °C, while holding the overall rich dose constant, resulted in a decrease in the cycle averaged NOX conversion from 76 to 54%. The selectivities to NH3 and N2O were found to be primarily a function of temperature, with both being higher at lower temperatures. The effect of cycle timing and reductant concentration were of secondary importance. In contrast, NH3 and N2O yields were significantly affected by the cycle timing since they depend on the NOX conversion. Therefore, any combination of changes in the lean/rich timing protocol or reductant concentrations that resulted in increased NOX conversion also resulted in increased NH3 and N2O yields for a given temperature. Thus, concerted control of NH3 generation by varying the lean/rich cycle timing was demonstrated for this LNT catalyst. At both lower and higher temperatures, variations in the rich cycle duration resulted in NH3/NOX ratios that could extend the region of operation for a close-coupled LNT-SCR system, with the greatest effect observed at temperatures between 250 and 450 °C. However, N2O yield also increased with NH3 yield under the same conditions.
Shielding space travelers.

M A R C H 2 0 0 6 C R E D IT Shielding Space Travelers I n science fiction, the worst threats to space travelers are large ones: careening asteroids, ravenous creatures, imperial battle cruisers. In reality, though, the scariest menaces for humans in space are the tiniest: fast-moving elementary particles known as cosmic rays. On a long journey, they would give astronauts a dose of radiation serious enough to cause cancer. Unlike most of the other challenges of venturing into deep space, which engineers should be able to solve given enough time and money, cosmic rays pose irreducible risks, and dealing with them involves fundamental trade-offs. They could be the show-stopper for visiting Mars.
IEMP Studies of a Dielectric-Filled Cavity: A Comparison of Experiment and Theory

The electromagnetic response of a dielectric-filled finite-length cylindrical cavity, exposed end-on at the Hermes II radiation facility, is experimentally and theoretically examined. Loop sensors were used to obtain azimuthal magnetic field related signals, and a dipole grid sensor was employed to acquire axial electric field related signals. The favorable comparison achieved between the experimentally obtained signals and the theoretically predicted results lends credence to the theoretical model developed.
Effects of Chemical Reaction on Gas Properties and Lewis Number

Criteria for the maximum effect of chemical reaction on thermal properties such as heat capacity, thermal conductivity, and coefficient of thermal expansion of interest in heat transfer processes are examined for gaseous systems of the type where a single equilibrium reaction between reactants and products occurs. A reacting Lewis number using an appropriate effective diffusion coefficient for multicomponent mixtures is found to be equal to unity for these systems. This behavior permits the frozen Lewis number to be defined for multicomponent systems as well as for binary systems with the effective diffusion coefficient replacing the binary diffusion coefficient.
Integrated vision system for object identification and localization using 3-D geometrical models

Successful implementation of sensor based robots in dynamic environments will depend largely upon the immunity of the system to incomplete and erroneous sensory information. This paper introduces a six module, 3D model based robot vision system, which utilizes 3D geometric models of the objects expected to appear in a scene and can tolerate incomplete and noisy image features. Object identification is independent of the particular robot pose and object pose, as long as the object is within view of the camera. The system effectively utilizes topology during the object identification phase to reduce the number of mappings between the domain of image features to that of the object features (object models). Geometric information is then employed by the Pose Determination Module to decipher the identified objects unconstrained position and orientation. Continuing experimentation is giving valuable insight into the characteristics of our strategy and has verified the system performance when using incomplete image feature sets.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Lack of correlation between gas-liquid chromatograph and UV absorption indicators of petroleum pollution in organisms

An attempt was made to see if simple liquid-solid chromatography with a UV absorption detector could be used to monitor non-point source petroleum pollution in organisms instead of gas-liquid chromatography (GLC). Petroleum derived material in nine algal communities and in 10 invertebrate populations on the rocky shores of Bermuda was analyzed by both methods.
A New Type of Crystal Fine-Structure: Lithium Ferrite (Li 2 O . Fe 2 O 3 )

The interpretation of the x-ray diffraction obtained from the isometric modification of lithium ferrite resulted in the conclusion that the smallest "unit" of this structure contains four anions and four cations. The anions, oxygens, occupy the four equivalent points $4b$ while the cations, iron and lithium, occupy together the four equivalent points $4c$. The large difference in the scattering power of iron and lithium makes it possible to arrive at the definite conclusion that in the structure of lithium ferrite the same set of equivalent positions is occupied by the two chemically different elements (variate atom equipoints). It is shown that the distribution of iron and lithium in this set of equipoints is not regular, that is, there are not always two of each cation present in the "unit"; the distribution is one of chance, which, however, must comply with the requirement that an equal number of each of the cations is always present within a relatively small space. In view of these findings the conception of the unit cell loses its traditional chemical significance and becomes strictly a geometric conception. The "unit cell" of lithium ferrite has a meaning only if its lattice be regarded as geometric points in space. The lattice of lithium ferrite is then identical with the one of the "sodium chloride" structure (4b, 4c); the unit cube contains one molecule of ${\mathrm{Li}}_{2}$O\ifmmode\cdot\else\textperiodcentered\fi{}${\mathrm{Fe}}_{2}$${\mathrm{O}}_{3}$, and the length of its edge is 4.141\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.005A. The density of lithium ferrite is 4.368 and its refractive index ${n}_{\mathrm{Li}}=2.40\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.04$.
A Pathway and Genetic Factors Contributing to Elevated Gene Expression Noise in Stationary Phase

Previous studies have identified factors associated with transcription and translation efficiency, such as promoter strength and mRNA sequences, that can affect stochasticity in gene expression. Here we present evidence for a pathway and associated genetic factors (namely, the ribosome modulation factor RMF and ppGpp) in Escherichia coli that contribute to heightened levels of gene expression noise during stationary phase. Endogenous cellular mechanisms that globally affect gene expression noise, such as those identified in this study, could provide phenotypic diversity under adverse conditions such as stationary phase.
How To Apply Case Series Review Results To Evaluation Of Individual Cases In Diagnostic Radiology

Probability theory provides a simple method for physicians to use their "intellectual linkages" to their past clinical experience in making current diagnoses. Only a pencil and paper are required for making a few likelihood calculations. To illustrate this method, evaluation was done of a new diagnostic sign (presence of knee ossification centers) for differentiating rubella from cytomegalic inclusion infection in young infants. Two practical questions can be answered by use of this likelihood method: 1) How certain can one be about either diagnosis when centers are present or absent? 2) How can other radiologists apply these results to their individual cases?© (1979) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Site control of hazardous waste facilities

Although it controls disposal of hazardous wastes, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 leaves the details of site selection and control to the states. Twelve states have passed site selection laws, but their implementation shows that there are problems still to be worked out. Georgia's law, which goes beyond those of many other states by providing for eminent domain, still has not fully resolved difficulties of state-local relations, liability, and representation of the public. 8 references.
Crystals of modified bovine neurophysin II

An enzymatically modified form of bovine neurophysin II has been crystallized in three unique crystal forms. The orthorhombic form crystallizes in space group P21212 with a= 15.33 nm, b= 6.92 nm, c= 3.63 nm, with four molecules in the asymmetric unit. The monoclinic form crystallizes in space group P21 with a= 6.22 nm, b= 9.55 nm, c= 5.45 nm and β= 110.2°, with eight molecules in the asymmetric unit. The tetragonal form crystallizes in space group P41212 or P43212 with a= 14.1 nm and c= 14.2 nm, with twelve molecules in the asymmetric unit. We report here the crystallization conditions, as well as the crystal data.
Factors Influencing the Biogeochemistry of Sedimentary Carbon and Phosphorus in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta

This study characterizes organic carbon (Corganic) and phosphorus (P) geochemistry in surface sediments of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, California. Sediment cores were collected from five sites on a sample transect from the edge of the San Francisco Bay eastward to the freshwater Consumnes River. The top 8 cm of each core were analyzed (in 1-cm intervals) for Corganic, four P fractions, and redox-sensitive trace metals (uranium and manganese). Sedimentary Corganic concentrations and Corganic: P ratios, decreased, while reactive P concentrations increased moving inland in the Delta. The fraction of total P represented by organic P increased inland, while that of authigenic P was higher bayward than inland reflecting increased diagenetic alteration of organic matter toward the bayward end of the transect. The redox indicator metals are consistent with decreasing sedimentary suboxia inland. The distribution of P fractions and C:P ratios, reflect the presence of relatively labile organic matter in upstream surface sediments. Sediment C and P geochemistry is influenced by site-specific particulate organic matter sources, the sorptive power of the sedimentary material present, physical forcing, and early diagenetic transformations presumably driven by Corganic oxidation.
Effects of intrauterine growth retardation in premature infants on early childhood growth.

Abstract Objective: To evaluate in preterm infants the role of intrauterine growth retardation and infant body proportionality on subsequent childhood growth. Methods: Preterm infants (818) prospectively enrolled in the Infant Health and Development Program were studied from birth to 36 months of corrected age. Weights and lengths were recorded at eight intervals. Growth parameters were compared in preterm infants with differing body symmetry at birth, defined by length-for-age and weight-for-age. Infants with both low length-for-age and low weight-for-age at birth were categorized as symmetrically growth retarded, and infants with normal length-for-age and low weight-for-age were categorized as asymmetrically growth retarded. Results: Infants born with low length-for-age demonstrated increased growth velocity until 8 months of corrected age ( p p p Conclusions: Preterm infants with both symmetric and asymmetric intrauterine growth retardation demonstrate limited catch-up growth. Intrauterine growth deficits persist into early childhood. (J Pediatr 1997;130:95-102)
If a finite extension of a Bernoulli shift has no finite rotation factors, it is Bernoulli

We show here that a finite extension of a Bernoulli shift either has a finite rotation factor or is Bernoulli. The proof lifts to this more general case the “nesting” technique we used previously to prove this for two point extensions.
Exercise testing and training in physically disabled men with clinical evidence of coronary artery disease

A prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and a concurrent physical disability evaluated the effects of a home exercise training program on cardiovascular function and blood lipids. Eighty-eight men between the ages of 42 and 72 years (mean 62) with documented CAD and a physical disability with functional use of > or = 2 extremities including 1 arm were randomized to either a 6-month home exercise training program using wheelchair ergometry or to a control group that received usual and customary care. Both groups received dietary instructions and were requested to follow a fat-controlled diet. Exercise test variables with echocardiography and blood lipids were measured at baseline and at 6 months. The home exercise training group significantly improved both peak exercise left ventricular ejection fraction (p = 0.007) and fractional shortening (p = 0.01) between baseline to 6 months, whereas the control group showed no significant changes. Exercise training effects of decreased resting heart rate (p = 0.03) and decreased peak rate pressure product (p = 0.03) were also found in the treatment group. No exercise-related cardiac complications occurred. Both groups significantly (p < or = 0.01) increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. These results indicate that physically disabled men with CAD can safely participate in a home exercise training program which may result in intrinsic cardiac benefits. The metabolic cost of activities of daily living imposed on this disabled population may also have a positive effect on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.
Discovery of the principal specific transcription factors of Apicomplexa and their implication for the evolution of the AP2-integrase DNA binding domains

The comparative genomics of apicomplexans, such as the malarial parasite Plasmodium, the cattle parasite Theileria and the emerging human parasite Cryptosporidium, have suggested an unexpected paucity of specific transcription factors (TFs) with DNA binding domains that are closely related to those found in the major families of TFs from other eukaryotes. This apparent lack of specific TFs is paradoxical, given that the apicomplexans show a complex developmental cycle in one or more hosts and a reproducible pattern of differential gene expression in course of this cycle. Using sensitive sequence profile searches, we show that the apicomplexans possess a lineage-specific expansion of a novel family of proteins with a version of the AP2 (Apetala2)-integrase DNA binding domain, which is present in numerous plant TFs. About 20-27 members of this apicomplexan AP2 (ApiAP2) family are encoded in different apicomplexan genomes, with each protein containing one to four copies of the AP2 DNA binding domain. Using gene expression data from Plasmodium falciparum, we show that guilds of ApiAP2 genes are expressed in different stages of intraerythrocytic development. By analogy to the plant AP2 proteins and based on the expression patterns, we predict that the ApiAP2 proteins are likely to function as previously unknown specific TFs in the apicomplexans and regulate the progression of their developmental cycle. In addition to the ApiAP2 family, we also identified two other novel families of AP2 DNA binding domains in bacteria and transposons. Using structure similarity searches, we also identified divergent versions of the AP2-integrase DNA binding domain fold in the DNA binding region of the PI-SceI homing endonuclease and the C-terminal domain of the pleckstrin homology (PH) domain-like modules of eukaryotes. Integrating these findings, we present a reconstruction of the evolutionary scenario of the AP2-integrase DNA binding domain fold, which suggests that it underwent multiple independent combinations with different types of mobile endonucleases or recombinases. It appears that the eukaryotic versions have emerged from versions of the domain associated with mobile elements, followed by independent lineage-specific expansions, which accompanied their recruitment to transcription regulation functions.
On the significance of radiation trapping in the inductively coupled plasma

Abstract On the basis of an intuitive argument and experimental evidence, the authors suggest that the populations of radiating states ( 3 P 1 , 1 p t ) and metastable states ( 3 P 2 , 3 P 0 ) of atomic argon are collisionally equilibrated in the ICP discharge. A mechanism for allowing suprathermal populations to exist in the analytical region of the ICP is proposed based on the “trappin” of resonance radiation within the discharge boundaries. The possible consequences of this model are discussed.
Environmental and policy approaches to increasing physical activity Improving access to places for physical activity and dissemination of information

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) program funded 40 communities in the United States during 1999-2007. Three of these communities implemented interventions to increase physical activity among African Americans. This case study looks at these interventions and the evidence-based recommendations from the CDC's Community Guide for Preventive Services. These recommendations address creating or improving access to physical activity and the dissemination of information via media campaigns. Findings suggest that although the evidence could not be applied in every respect, culturally-tailored change strategies can meet unique characteristics of African Americans with or at risk for heart disease and may contribute to increased physical activity. Language: en
Continuous Reporting and Continuous Assurance: Opportunities for Behavioral Accounting Research

The movement to more continuous reporting (CR) and continuous assurance (CA) of financial statements appears to be a matter of when and how such changes will take place, rather than if they will occur. Research evidence suggests that computing infrastructures and software applications have advanced to the point where it is now technically and economically feasible to begin preparing and disseminating financial statements on at least a monthly basis (Hunton, Wright, and Wright 2003), and someday it is likely that full or partial financial and nonfinancial disclosures will be processed and presented in real time. Additionally, information consumers are demanding, and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), and International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) are contemplating reporting and assurance changes of this nature. Thus, whether “continuous” is defined in terms of monthly, daily, hourly, or real‐time reporting, rapidly converging marke...
Cordierite in the Pre-Cambrian rocks of the south savannas, British Guiana

The mineral cordierite occurs in Pre-Cambrian gneisses, granulites, and granites of the Guyana shield in British Guiana. In the acid biotite gneisses and acid granulites forming the Kanuku group, the mineral was formed during regional metamorphism. Considerable enrichment of cordierite occurs in the contact aureole around the South Savanna granite. Cordierite of xenocrystal origin also occurs in the South Savanna granite and its apophyses. The 2V and optic sign of the mineral varies widely, and no definite pattern in relation to the paragenesis of the mineral is recognized. Untwinned cordierites are predominant in regionally metamorphosed rocks while lamellar, interpenetration and sector twins are characteristic of cordierites in contact hornfelsed aureole rocks.
Networked infomechanical systems: a mobile embedded networked sensor platform

Networked infomechanical systems (NIMS) introduces a new actuation capability for embedded networked sensing. By exploiting a constrained actuation method based on rapidly deployable infrastructure, NIMS suspends a network of wireless mobile and fixed sensor nodes in three-dimensional space. This permits run-time adaptation with variable sensing location, perspective, and even sensor type. Discoveries in NIMS environmental investigations have raised requirements for 1) new embedded platforms integrating many diverse sensors with actuators, and 2) advances for in-network sensor data processing. This is addressed with a new and generally applicable processor-preprocessor architecture described in this paper. Also this paper describes the successful integration of R, a powerful statistical computing environment, into the embedded NIMS node platform.
Reduction of Plasma NEFA Concentration by Nicotinic Acid Enhances the Response to Insulin in Feed-Restricted Holstein Cows

Abstract The objective was to investigate the relationship between elevated plasma nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentration and insulin resistance in Holstein cows. Six nonlactating, nongestating, ruminally cannulated Holstein cows were blocked by body condition score and randomly assigned to a sequence of 2 treatments in a crossover design. Cows were offered legume and grass hay ad libitum supplemented with minerals and vitamins and were allowed free access to water and a trace mineralized salt block. Mobilization of body reserves was stimulated by withdrawing forage for 48h before initiation of treatments. Treatments consisted of 11 hourly abomasal infusions of water (control) or nicotinic acid (NA; 6 mg/h per kg of body weight) as an antilipolytic agent. Infusions of NA decreased plasma NEFA concentration from 545μEq/L to approximately 100μEq/L within 2h after initiation of treatments, and differences were maintained throughout infusions. Intravenous glucose tolerance test was performed 8h after initiation of treatments and was followed by 3h of blood sampling. The reduction of plasma NEFA concentration led to significantly greater glucose clearance rate (1.9 vs. 1.2%/min) and to decreased glucose half-life (37 vs. 58min), time to reach basal concentration (81 vs. 114min) and glucose response area under the curve during 180min of sampling [6,942 vs. 10,085 (μIU/mL)×180 min]. Enhanced glucose clearance was achieved when plasma NEFA was reduced by NA, despite lower insulin concentration (70.0 vs. 97.9±13.4μIU/mL) and a tendency for smaller insulin response area under the curve during 180min of sampling [7,646 vs. 12,104±2,587 (μIU/mL)×180 min], reflecting an increased response to endogenous insulin. Based on literature, we do not expect NA to have altered glucose metabolism directly; therefore, this experiment demonstrates a cause and effect relationship between elevated NEFA and insulin resistance in Holstein cows.
Traffic statistics and performance evaluation in optical burst switched networks

Optical burst switching (OBS) is a promising switching technology to exploit the potential benefits of optical communication and, at the same time, support statistical multiplexing of data traffic at a fine granularity. To quantify its benefits, the paper describes several typical burst assembly algorithms and studies their impact on the assembled burst traffic characteristics as well as the performance of TCP traffic. Also described is a proactive burst scheduling algorithm, called burst overlap reduction algorithm (BORA), which schedules locally assembled bursts in such a way as to reduce burst contention at downstream nodes in OBS networks. Furthermore, to provide analytical insights into performance evaluation of OBS networks, a burst loss model at an OBS node and its extension to different reservation protocols are presented.
Singlet oxygen reactions of 2-carbalkoxy-3-methoxypyrroles

Abstract The reactions of singlet oxygen with 3-methoxy-2-carbalkoxypyrroles lead to 2,5-oxygenation, 2,3-epoxides, or 2,3-oxidative cleavage, depending on substitution patterns and reaction conditions.
Paleosecular variation models for ancient times: Clues from Keweenawan lava flows

Abstract Statistical paleosecular variation models predict distributions of paleomagnetic vectors as a function of geographic position. Such models have been used in a variety of applications that test whether a given data set fairly represents the variability and average properties of the geomagnetic field. The simple relationship between inclination of the geomagnetic field and latitude predicted by geocentric axial dipole (GAD) models has been a cornerstone for plate reconstructions for decades, yet many data sets exhibit a tendency to be shallower than expected for a dominantly axial geocentric magnetic field. Too shallow inclinations have variously been interpreted as plate motion, permanent non-dipole field components or bias in inclination from sedimentary processes. Statistical PSV models could in principle be used to resolve the cause of inclination anomalies because there is a simple relationship between the elongation of the distribution of directions in the vertical plane and the average inclination. Shallowing of inclinations from sedimentary processes results in a progressive transformation of the elongation direction in the vertical plane containing the average direction into a pronounced elongation in the plane perpendicular to that. However, the applicability of statistical models based on the last 5 million years for more ancient times is an open question. Here we present new data from the Keeweenawan North Shore Volcanics ( ∼ 1.1 Ga). These data are consistent with statistical PSV model predictions and are less well fit by models that include a 20% axial octupole component. We also find evidence for a pervasive overprinting by hematite in a shallower direction and find support for the contention that the asymmetric reversal(s) observed in Keweenawan aged rocks along the North shore of Lake Superior can be explained as an age progression, with the reverse directions being older than the normal directions. Finally, we re-consider implications from an analysis of inclinations from the Global Paleomagnetic Database for the Paleozoic and Pre-Cambrian. We find that the data are inconsistent with a random sampling of any simple geomagnetic field model and conclude that the data set under-samples the field in a spatial sense.
Roles of 3-nitrotyrosine- and 4-hydroxynonenal-modified brain proteins in the progression and pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease.

AbstractProteins play an important role in normal structure and function of the cells. Oxidative modification of proteins may greatly alter the structure and may subsequently lead to loss of normal physiological cell functions and may lead to abnormal function of cell and eventually to cell death. These modifications may be reversible or irreversible. Reversible protein modifications, such as phosphorylation, can be overcome by specific enzymes that cause a protein to ‘revert’ back to its original protein structure, while irreversible protein modifications cannot. Several important irreversible protein modifications include protein nitration and HNE modification, both which have been extensively investigated in research on the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). From the earliest stage of AD throughout the advancement of the disorder there is evidence of increased protein nitration and HNE modification. These protein modifications lead to decreased enzymatic activity, which correlates directly to pro...
Overcoming chemophobia: A key factor in solving the Missouri dioxin problem

Abstract This paper discusses measures taken by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Region VII, to deal with the problem of dioxin contamination in Missouri.
Functional Significance of Aurora Kinase A Regulatory Interactions with p53-ERα Complex in Human Breast Cancer Cells

Aurora kinase A (Aurora-A), a proto-oncogenic mitosis-regulating serine/threonine kinase, is frequently overexpressed in human breast cancer. While the kinase has been shown to cause functional inactivation of tumor suppressor protein p53, which binds estrogen receptor α (ERα) and downregulates its transcriptional activation function, significance of Aurora-A overexpression on p53 regulatory interactions in breast cancer cells has not been investigated. We describe in this report functional consequences of Aurora-A phosphorylation of p53 tumor suppressor protein on its subcellular distribution and binding with ERα that may be important in downregulating the transcription of p53-responsive growth inhibitory genes and development of resistance to DNA damage-induced apoptosis in Aurora-A overexpressing human breast cancer cells. Our results demonstrate that while estrogen activates Aurora-A expression in ERα-positive cells through ERα-GATA-3 signaling cascade, Aurora-A forms a ternary complex with p53 and ERα. Phosphorylation of p53 by Aurora-A sequesters the protein in the cytoplasm and enhances its interaction with ERα, thus repressing the transactivation functions of both p53 and ERα. These findings have significant clinical implications and suggest that prolonged estrogen exposure-mediated Aurora-A overexpression may be directly contributing to deregulated proliferation and resistance to DNA damage-induced apoptosis in breast cancer cells.
Promoting smoking cessation in pregnancy with Video Doctor plus provider cueing: a randomized trial

Objective. This study examined the use of a Video Doctor plus provider cueing to promote provider advice and smoking cessation outcomes in pregnancy. Design. A randomized clinical trial was conducted from 2006 to 2008. Setting. Five community prenatal clinics in the San Francisco Bay Area of the United States. Participants. A total of 410 pregnant patients completed screening for behavioral risks including tobacco use in the past 30 days. Pregnant smokers (n = 42) were randomized regardless of their intention to quit smoking. Methods. Participants were assigned to either usual care or intervention. Intervention participants received 15-minute Video Doctor sessions plus provider cueing, at baseline and one month, prior to their routine prenatal visit. The Video Doctor delivered interactive tailored messages, an educational worksheet for participants, and a cueing sheet for providers. Main outcome measures. Receipt of advice from the provider and 30-day smoking abstinence, both by self-report. Results. Intervention participants were more likely to receive provider advice on tobacco use at both prenatal visits during the intervention period (60.9 vs. 15.8%, p = 0.003). The intervention yielded a significantly greater decrease in the number of days smoked and in cigarettes smoked per day. The 30-day abstinence rate at two months post baseline was 2.5 times greater in the intervention group; the difference was not significant (26.1 vs. 10.5%, p = 0.12). Conclusions. The Video Doctor plus provider cueing is an efficacious adjunct to routine prenatal care by promoting provider advice and smoking reduction among pregnant smokers.
Geometric maneuverability with applications to low reynolds number swimming

A mobile system's maneuverability describes the scale and span of the velocities with which it can move. In this paper, we present a new geometric framework for describing the maneuverability of kinematic locomoting systems, inspired by the manipulability analysis of robotic arms. This framework describes both the local maneuverability in the neighborhood of each shape the system can assume and the cyclic maneuverability achieved by executing gaits from a library. Additionally, the gait-level analysis includes tools that direct the search for gaits whose inclusion into the library will usefully improve the maneuverability. Throughout, we provide examples based on a swimming system operating at low Reynolds number.
Relationship between expression of Pad1 homologue and multidrug resistance of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome.

BACKGROUND Multidrug resistance is an occasionally seen phenomenon in children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS), but the mechanism of multidrug resistance is not clear as yet. The purpose of the present study was to investigated whether expression of Pad1 homologue (POH1) plays a role in the onset of multidrug resistance of INS. METHODS Comparison was done of the mRNA level of POH1 on real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in peripheral blood mononuclear cells among children with multidrug-resistant INS, children with steroid-sensitive INS and healthy controls. RESULTS The POH1 mRNA level of the onset INS group (5852.3 +/- 2676.4 copies/microg) was significantly lower than that of the control group (10 877.1 +/- 2386.6 copies/microg; P 0.05), but significantly higher than that of the onset INS group without multidrug resistance after treatment (436 579.6 +/- 99 727.4 copies/microg vs 38 438.2 +/- 16 772.5 copies/microg; P 0.05), but was significantly higher than that of the onset INS group without multidrug resistance after treatment (38 438.2 +/- 16 772.5 copies/microg; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Disorder of POH1 expression is involved in the onset of INS, and confers multidrug resistance in children with INS.
Short Paper: Toward Self Organizing Grids

The potential of truly large scale grids can only be realized with grid architectures and deployment strategies that lower the need for human administrative intervention, and therefore open the grid to wider participation from resources and users. Self-organizing grids (SOGs) are characterized by services, protocols, and deployment strategies that promote true scalability by eliminating administrative bottlenecks. We describe four enabling mechanisms for SOGs - automatically inferring grid structure, tracking and making available dynamic resource state information, unifying the grid service deployment model, and making effective use of intermittently connected grid hosts via lightweight fault tolerance mechanisms that take advantage of the resource fault characteristics