cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TISSUE ANALYSIS AS A MEASURE OF NUTRIENT AVAILABILITY FOR THE GROWTH OF ANGIOSPERM AQUATIC PLANTS1

A tissue analysis technique was used to evaluate nitrogen and phosphorus supplies in natural waters for the growth of angiosperm aquatic plants. Tissue content of nitrogen and phosphorus was employed as an index of element availability in lakes from which plants were collected. This required establishment in the laboratory of the critical level for each element, that is, the minimum tissue content associated with maximum growth. To establish critical levels, a system was developed for culturing algae-free plants in a synthetic nutrient medium. The critical nitrogen content for the several species studied was approximately 1.3%; the comparable phosphorus value was 0.13%. The nitrogen and phosphorus contents of 13 species of aquatic plants collected during the summer from nine lakes were compared with the critical concentrations. In nine samples obtained mostly during periods of heaviest plant growth, the phosphorus content was at or below the critical level; in no sample was the nitrogen content less than the critical concentration. The results indicated that in all but one of the lakes, phosphorus supply was more likely to limit higher aquatic plant growth than was nitrogen. The primary importance of this study is as an initial step in the development of a satisfactory technique for evaluating nutrient supplies in natural waters.
Rate constants for reactions of ClO/x/ of atmospheric interest

Chemical kinetics measurements on 82 gas phase reactions of chlorine containing species are reviewed. Recommended rate constants are given. The principal species of interest are Cl, Cl2, ClO, Cl2O, ClOO, OClO, CINO, HCl and halo derivatives of methane and ethane. Absorption spectra are given for 21 species. In addition the chemical kinetics methods used to obtain these data are discussed with regard to their applicability and reliability.
In silico analogues of epithelial cell growth and morphogenesis

We present simulation models of in vitro cell culture systems and their application in systematic exploration of the simulated cell growth mechanisms and their impairment in epithelial morphogenesis. Our referent systems are in vitro cell cultures commonly used for studies of morphogenetic processes that underlie the development of the embryo and its organ systems. We have constructed discrete event, agent-based models with agent rules that capture posited processes of cell proliferation and death involved in the formation of multicellular epithelial structures such as cysts and tubules. We report on their application in exploring the phenotypic consequences of disabling the simulated processes, and show that varying degrees of the disablement cause different growth patterns to emerge, including a cancer-like phenotype.
Militarized, laser-welded optoelectronic device packaging

A technique is described for packaging commercial lasers, ELEDs, and detectors for military environments with a wide range of temperatures. Laser welding and gradient-index lenses are combined in the packaging design, and stable coupling efficiency is achieved by utilizing both pigtailed single-mode fiber packages and SMA connectorized multimode fiber packages. The coupling efficiency is demonstrated to be high, and packages are described which are suitable for commercial devices with diameters of 9 and 5.6 mm.© (1990) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A TREM-1 Polymorphism A/T within the Exon 2 Is Associated with Pneumonia in Burn-Injured Patients

Background. The triggering receptor expressed in myeloid cells (TREM-1) is a key mediator in the activation of the local inflammatory response during lung infections. We aimed to evaluate the effect of a functionally relevant TREM-1 single nucleotide polymorphism within the exon 2 (A→T) on the development of pneumonia in burn patients. Objective. To determine whether a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) within the exon 2 (A→T) in the TREM-1 gene is associated with ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in burn-injured patients. Methods. 540 patients with ≥10% total body surface area (TBSA) burn injuries or inhalation injury were prospectively enrolled. The influence of a polymorphism (A→T) in exon 2 of the TREM-1 gene was evaluated for association with increased risk of pneumonia by logistic regression analysis. Measurements and Main Results. 209 patients met criteria for VAP. Multivariate regression analysis showed that, after adjustment for potential confounders, we found that carriage of the TREM-1 T allele is associated with more than a 3-fold increased risk of VAP (OR 6.3, 95% CI 4–9). Conclusions. A TREM-1 single nucleotide polymorphism within the exon 2 (A→T) is associated with the development of pneumonia in burn patients.
Electron-stimulated desorption of neutral NO from Ni: State-specific resonance-ionization detection.

Laser resonance-ionization spectroscopy of nitric oxide (NO) molecules desorbed by electron impact from a polycrystalline nickel surface is discussed. This is the first time that ground-state rotational and vibrational populations have been probed for neutrals in electron-stimulated desorption. The results support previous studies that indicate that shallow valence-level excitations dominate the neutral desorption mechanism.
Imidazo[1,2‐α]pyrimidines and 1,2,4‐triazolo[1,5‐α]pyrimidines: Two new examples of mesoionic xanthine analogs

Several derivatives of mesoionic imidazo[1,2-α]pyrimidine-5,7-dione and 1,2,4-triazolo[1,5-α]pyrimidine-5,7-dione, two new examples of mesoionic xanthine ring systems, were prepared and characterized. These compounds were conveniently prepared by the condensation of bis-(2,4,6-trichlorophenyl) malonates with the appropriately substituted alkylaminoimiazole or 1,2,4-triazole.
Ultrasound versus anatomic guidance for intra-articular and periarticular injection: a systematic review.

AbstractObjective: To investigate the clinical efficacy of ultrasound when compared with anatomic standard injection using palpation/anatomic landmarks. Methods: PubMed, Ovid Medline/Cochrane Reviews, BIOSIS Previews®, and SPORTDiscus™ databases were searched to January 2011. To narrow the search, the following key search terms were used: ultrasound, guided, injection, joint, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle. Fifteen articles were determined to be relevant, and an additional 2 articles were added after bibliography sections of the 15 articles were reviewed, resulting in a total of 17 articles meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Accuracy was greater in the ultrasound-guided group, independent of anatomic site. An improvement in time to symptom onset in the short term (< 6 weeks) was greatest with the use of ultrasound-guided intra-articular injection. Long-term outcomes are not proven to be different between intra-articular injection with ultrasound or anatomic guidance. The grea...
The QCD equation of state

Abstract The quark–gluon plasma (QGP), the deconfined high-temperature phase of QCD, is currently under extensive investigation in heavy-ion collision experiments at RHIC and LHC. The transition from the hadronic, low-temperature phase to the QGP is a rapid crossover, manifested by a significant change in bulk thermodynamic quantities. A fundamental characteristics of QCD is the equation of state, which is also an essential ingredient of hydrodynamic modeling of heavy-ion collisions. We report our final result [1] for the 2 + 1 flavor QCD equation of state in the continuum limit. We calculate the pressure, energy density and other thermodynamic quantities in the experimentally relevant temperature range 130–400 MeV. We use the highly improved staggered quark (HISQ) action with the Goldstone pion mass tuned to about 160 MeV in the continuum limit. To perform the continuum extrapolation we use lattices with temporal extent N τ = 6 , 8 , 10 and 12 .
Differential responses of an invariant region in the ectodomain of three glycoprotein hormone receptors to mutagenesis and assay conditions.

The glycoprotein hormone receptors—luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR), follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), and thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR)—are G-protein-coupled receptors with an invariant 10-amino acid residue sequence in the ectodomain proximal to transmembrane helix 1. A Glu-ASP, located at the midpoint of this conserved sequence, has been suggested to be important in ligand-mediated signaling of LHR and/or receptor expression or stability, but not binding. One goal of this study was to expand the studies on LHR and determine whether the invariant Glu and Asp residues were functional in FSHR and TSHR as well. Another goal was to investigate systematically the role of ionic strength, particularly Na+, which appears to have enigmatic functions in the three receptors regarding ligand binding and receptor activation, and to ascertain whether any of the purported effects of Na+ could involve the conserved pair of acidic side chains in the ectodomain. COS-7 cells were transiently transfected with cDNAs to the wild-type (WT) receptor (rat) and identical single and double mutants of each (Glu→Ala, Asp; Asp→Ala, Glu; and Glu-Asp→Asp-Glu), followed by characterization of cognate ligand binding and signaling (basal and hormone mediated) in two commonly used buffer systems: Waymouth’s medium, containing a near-physiologic concentration of Na+ (132 mM); a low ionic strength buffer with a 1 mM concentration of Na+. The three receptors exhibited differential responses to mutagenesis and the two buffers. Notably, a comparison of basal cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) production showed that the buffer of lower ionic strength resulted in increased basal cAMP production in WT TSHR but not LHR and FSHR; that the maximal ligand-mediated cAMP production was greatest in the buffer of higher ionic strength for the three WT receptors; that functionality of the conserved Glu and Asp residues in ligand-mediated signaling was buffer dependent in LHR, whereas it did not appear to be particularly important in FSHR and TSHR signaling; and that apparent ligand binding in WT and mutant TSHRs seemed to be particularly diminished in the buffer of higher ionic strength. These results demonstrate that identical amino acid residues in homologous receptors can exhibit distinct functions; moreover, the role of ionic strength (Na+) on signaling differs in the three receptors.
Electronic Signatures: They're Legal, Now What?

In the USA, electronic signatures recently became as legally binding as printed signatures. But the legislation that made electronic signatures legal did nothing to specify how they should be implemented, or what precautions must be taken to ensure the security and validity of the signature process. This paper first reviews the status of electronic signatures in the USA, and compares it to work done by the United Nations. Next, the technology that can be used to implement electronic signatures is summarized. The paper concludes with a discussion of problems and open issues surrounding the use of electronic signatures.
Fixed versus variable reference points in the risk-return relationship

Abstract Researchers using prospect theory in explaining Bowman's risk-return paradox have typically assumed a single fixed reference point, normally the industry median, in defining two decision contexts: gain and loss. Our findings suggest this reference point is elevated above industry median performance, and varies over time and across industries independent of industry performance. Consistent with the prospect theory, firms above this reference point were risk averse and those below it were risk seeking. We found no evidence of a second survival reference point for firms in trouble.
Requirement of DNA Polymerase Activity of Yeast Rad30 Protein for Its Biological Function

The RAD30 gene of Saccharomyces cerevisiae encodes a DNA polymerase, Polη. The Rad30 protein shares homology with the yeast Rev1 and the Escherichia coli DinB and UmuC proteins. Although these proteins contain several highly conserved motifs, only Rad30 has been shown to possess a DNA polymerase activity. To determine whether the DNA polymerase activity of Rad30 was essential for its biological function, we made a mutation in the highly conserved SIDE sequence in Rad30, in which the aspartate and glutamate residues have each been changed to alanine. The mutant Rad30 protein lacks the DNA polymerase activity, and the mutant gene does not complement the rad30Δ mutation. These findings indicate that DNA polymerase activity is indispensable for the biological function of RAD30.
The association between Medicaid status and broken orthodontic appointments is not clearly established.

Article Title and Bibliographic Information Appointment keeping behavior of Medicaid vs non-Medicaid orthodontic patients. Horsley BP, Lindauer SJ, Shroff B, Tufekci E, Abubaker AO, Fowler CE, Maxfield BJ. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2007;132: 49-53. Level of Evidence Level 3 (Other evidence) Strength of Recommendation Grade Not applicable Purpose/Question To determine if differences exist in the rates of broken appointments between Medicaid and non-Medicaid orthodontic patients. Source Of Funding Medical College of Virginia Orthodontic Education and Research Foundation. Type Of Study/Design Cross-sectional study
The eye in sleep apnea syndrome

Sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) is a disease characterized by recurrent complete or partial upper airway obstructions during sleep. The majority of patients with SAS demonstrate this obstruction either at the nasopharynx or the oropharynx. Risk factors for SAS include obesity, male gender, upper airway abnormalities, alcohol use, snoring, and neck girth of more than 17 in. in men or 16 in. in women. Reported ophthalmic findings in patients with SAS include floppy eyelid syndrome (FES), glaucoma, and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).
Blood pyruvate and lactate during febrile human infections.

Abstract Reduced diphosphopyridine nucleotide (NADH) was oxidized at abnormally rapid rates when mixed with sera from febrile infected patients. The pyruvate in sera, acting as a substrate for NADH-dependent serum enzymes, was found to be a critical determinant for this reaction. These data, which suggested abnormal levels of pyruvate and lactate in blood during infection, were confirmed by the determination of pyruvate and lactate in whole venous blood. Abnormally elevated levels of pyruvate were frequently found in the blood of infected patients, and the levels of pyruvate and lactate were significantly higher in the acute phase blood than those from the convalescent period. These findings are discussed in relation to the host's reaction to infection.
Variation-Aware Voltage Level Selection

In this paper, we address the problem of variation-aware selection of voltage levels for system-on-chips (SoCs) that are organized into multiple frequency and voltage domains. Conventionally, the voltage levels for each domain, as well as the mapping between frequencies and voltages, are determined without considering variations. In the presence of variations, these choices are often suboptimal since the frequency versus voltage characteristics vary from one SoC instance to another and across different voltage domains within an instance. We present a two-pronged approach to address this problem. First, we propose breaking the conventional fixed coupling between voltage levels and frequencies and demonstrate that performing this association based on the characteristics of individual chip instances can lead to significant improvements in power and performance. Second, we show that voltage levels that are computed while accounting for variations can lead to further improvements. We present a methodology to determine a set of discrete voltage levels in a variation-aware manner by generating and quantizing the ideal voltage distribution for a given SoC. Our experiments on an 802.11 MAC processor SoC indicate that the proposed techniques lead to significant improvements in power and performance characteristics in the presence of variations. We obtained an improvement of up to 68% in parametric yield (number of chips meeting power and performance targets) compared to conventional voltage scaling.
An existential approach to speech therapy

Abstract As a clinical experiment we attempted to reshape for our needs current psychotherapeutic approaches based upon existentialism. Drawing material from case studies of aphasic, laryngectomized and hard of hearing patients, specific examples are cited to support judgements of positive and negative results in therapy which appear to be directly related to the existential process. The philosophical history of the present existential school in psychotherapy is outlined briefly in order to clarify the rationale for the selective use of the existential point of view in speech therapy. Criteria are summarized for a decision to adopt existential methods with particular patients. Possible pitfalls contingent upon such a decision are also delineated.
Multiple complications and short length of stay are associated with postoperative readmissions.

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to characterize patients readmitted following inpatient general surgery procedures. We hypothesized that a decreased length of stay would increase risk for readmission. Methods We utilized our institutional National Surgical Quality Improvement Project database from 2006 to 2011. The main outcome of interest was 30-day readmission. Univariate and logistic regression analyses identified risk factors for readmission. Results We identified 3,556 patients, with 322 (9%) readmitted within 30 days after discharge. Multivariable analysis demonstrated age, dyspnea, and American Society of Anesthesiologists class to be independent risk factors for readmission. In addition, patients who suffered multiple complications had a decreased risk for readmission as length of stay increased. Patients with Conclusions Contributors to postoperative readmissions are multifactorial. Perioperative factors predict risk for readmission and may help determine a target length of stay. Prevention of postoperative complications may reduce readmission rates.
Erectile haemodynamic status after radical prostatectomy correlates with erectile functional outcome.

OBJECTIVE To define haemodynamic changes after radical retropubic prostatectomy (RP) and the predictive value of these for the outcome of erectile function (EF), as although there are predictors of the recovery of EF, penile vascular changes might also affect the recovery of EF. PATIENTS AND METHODS Prospective data were analysed from men who had RP followed by duplex penile Doppler ultrasonography (DUS) within 6 months of RP. All men had functional erections before RP, based on self-report and partner corroboration, and all completed the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire serially after RP. The EF, based on IIEF scores, was then correlated with the penile DUS results. RESULTS In all, the study included 111 patients; 32 (29%) had normal erectile haemodynamics after RP, while 79 (71%) had abnormal haemodynamics. Twelve patients (11%) had a venous leak. There were no differences in mean patient age or comorbidity profile between those with and without haemodynamic changes. Comparing those with normal and abnormal haemodynamics, the mean IIEF EF domain scores were 25 and 17 (P = 0.025), the percentages of erectile rigidity at 18 months was 66% vs 35% (P = 0.013), the percentage of patients with normal EF domain scores was 28% vs 6% (P < 0.01), the percentage of patients with functional erections permitting sexual intercourse unassisted by pharmacological agents was 47% vs 22% (P = 0.018), and the percentage of patients responding to sildenafil citrate, as defined by vaginal penetration, was 72% vs 43% (P = 0.03), respectively. CONCLUSIONS The results of this prospective study indicate that a patient’s penile vascular status is correlated with their EF after RP.
Estimation of series system reliability for exponentially distributed component life times

Abstract The reliability of a series system with P components which have exponential life times is estimated using Type II censored samples. The series system reliability is a function of μ( λ )= ∑ j=1 P λ j , where λj is the hazard rate constant for the jth component, j=1,2,…P. An estimator of μ( λ ) which dominates the MLE in terms of the risk is derived. This improved estimator of μ( λ ) is used for estimating the series system reliability. Monte Carlo simulation is used to estimate the risks of the proposed estimators, and comparisons with the ML estimators are made.
The survival times of malaria-infected mice are prolonged more by several new two-carbon-linked artemisinin-derived dimer carbamates than by the trioxane antimalarial drug artemether.

Sixteen new artemisinin-derived 2-carbon-linked trioxane dimers were prepared to study chemical structure/antimalarial activity relationships (SAR). Administering a very low single oral dose of only 5 mg/kg of dimer secondary alcohol 6a or 6b plus 15 mg/kg of mefloquine hydrochloride prolonged the lives of Plasmodium berghei-infected mice to an average of 25 days after infection. This ACT chemotherapy result is of high medicinal significance because the antimalarial efficacy of the popular trioxane drug artemether (2) plus mefloquine under the same conditions was significantly lower (only 20 day average survival). NH-aryl carbamate derivatives 7e, 7i, and 7j of 2-carbon-linked dimer alcohol 6b also significantly outperformed artemether (2) in prolonging the survival times (25–27 days) of malaria-infected mice.
APPROACHES TO TREATMENT DECISIONS FOR PSYCHIATRIC COMORBIDITY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF THE CHRONIC PAIN PATIENT

A number of different types of comorbidities have been described within psychiatric patients. These comorbidity types are reviewed and their application to the chronic pain population is discussed. These various types of comorbidities are then utilized to generate an approach for treatment decisions in the management of the chronic pain patient.
Feasibility of preparing and analyzing gas standards containing heavy hydrocarbons (C10-C16).

State and federal agencies are beginning to monitor ambient air for compounds related to diesel exhaust. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) was asked to develop standards containing heavy (C10–C16) alkanes which could then be used in air monitoring and exhaust studies. Several primary gravimetric standards, containing heavy (C10–C16) alkanes in nitrogen, were developed and analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) with flame-ionization detection (FID). The results of this research indicate that accurate gas standards containing these hydrocarbons can be prepared. However, the analytical results show that the temperature of the transfer system from the gas cylinder to the GC column (including the gas-sample valve) must be heated in order to prevent adsorption of these compounds within the analytical system. The results indicate that even at elevated temperatures these compounds are being absorbed within the system. The results show that quantitative results cannot be obtained by using one compound such as hexane, as an internal standard to determine the concentration of other hydrocarbons. Quantitative and accurate results are best obtained if standards for each hydrocarbon of interest are used to determine concentrations of unknowns for the respective hydrocarbon.
Analogy, systems, and intelligence

Although the study of analogy is a common interest for researchers in general systems theory and in artificial intelligence (AI), the research disciplines in these two areas are quite different. In this paper we provide a brief comparison study for these two fields: analogy as the study of systems and analogy as the study of intelligence. We show that these two fields of study are complementary. We also propose the use of logic specification for systems description. A study of analogy that combines perspectives of general systems theory and AI thus becomes evident.
Quantitative measurement of local cerebral metabolic rate for glucose utilizing tritiated 2-deoxyglucose

Abstract The [14C]2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) technique has been widely utilized for quantitative measurement of local cerebral metabolic rate for glucose (1CMRG) in animals. The technique as presently used is limited by the energy of14C beta-particles, which can travel relatively great distances in tissue. This results in limited audiographic resolution and in computed14C concentrations which are a function of tissue section thickness. [3H]2-DG has less energetic beta-particles; hence, autoradiographs have better resolution and optical densities are independent of tissue thickness for sections greater than 5 μm. We have developed a method for quantitation of 1CMRG in rats using [3H]2-DG and a newly developed ultrasensitive X-ray film. Autoradiographic tissue standards were prepared by injecting rats with [3H]2-DG and assaying micro-samples of brain for3H concentration. Ten rats were used in this study. Five rats received [3H]2-DG (300 μCi/100 g) and 5 rats received [14C]2-DG (7.5 μCi/100g). The mean 1CMRG values for selected areas of the central nervous system demonstrated no significant difference (P > 0.05) between the [14C]2-DG and the [3H]2-DG groups. Values for 1CMRG from the [3H]2-DG group showed no variation attributable to inadequate microtome precision. The improved resolution obtained by utilizing [3H]2-DG is especially evident where gray matter (high 1CMRG) is immediately adjacent to white matter (low 1CMRG).
MUC-6 mucin is a major component of ‘blood group substance’ from human ovarian cyst fluid

Ovarian cyst fluid has been a valuable source of the mucins (traditionally termed "blood group substances") that were used for the elucidation of the structures of the ABO Lewis blood group determinants, but the identity of the mucin peptide core(s) carrying these carbohydrate specificities is not known. An ovarian cyst fluid mucin was purified, deglycosylated with HF and digested with trypsin or chymotrypsin to yield a number of peptides. Amino acid sequencing of these peptides yielded five different sequences which showed complete or partial homology to the MUC-6 apomucin deduced from DNA sequencing. As no other sequences were identified, it is concluded that MUC-6 is the major mucin core structure of ovarian cyst fluid mucin.
Interfacial segregation in polymer blends driven by acid-base interactions.

Infrared-visible sum frequency generation spectroscopy (SFG) was used to measure the interfacial concentrations of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)/polystyrene (PS) blends next to a sapphire substrate. The acid–base interactions of carbonyl groups of PMMA with the hydroxyl groups on the sapphire drive the interfacial segregation of PMMA next to the sapphire substrate. Using the shift of sapphire surface OH peaks, we have determined the difference in interfacial energy between the PMMA/sapphire and the PS/sapphire to be ∼44–45 mJ/m2. These results highlight the importance of acid–base interactions and their role in controlling the interfacial segregation next to solid substrates in polymer blends.
Hepatopathology of diethylnitrosamine in the medaka (Oryzias latipes) following short-term exposure.

ABSTR4CT The effect of short-term exposure (48 hr) of 14-day-old medaka (Oryzias latipes) to diethylnitrosamine (DEN) was tested on 4 groups of fish at 0, 100,200, and 400 mg/L, with interim sacrifices of up to 6 months post exposure. Many of the lesions seen were similar to those seen in other fish DEN carcinogenicity studies using longer term, adult exposures, including a cytotoxic phase with cystic degeneration of the hepatic parenchyma, cellular vacuolation, globular acidophilic cytoplasmic inclusions, spongiosis hepatis, foci of cellular alteration, adenomas, and cholangiomas. There were also several proliferative lesions of uncertain origin which occurred throughout the study. There appeared to be a direct relationship between exposure level and the incidence and seventy of the lesions seen, including aggressiveness and invasiveness of the neoplasms seen. However, there was a possible difference from other studies in the types of neoplasms seen with this protocol, which may be related to age at exposure, exposure level, duration of exposure, or a combination of these factors. Similarities ip lesions seen in this study and in rodent and other fish studies is an indication of promise for the use of this model in carcinogenicity testing. Differences indicate the variety of ways the fish liver can respond to toxic injury, and lend flexibility to the model.
Development of coherent laser radar

Over the past 25 years many coherent laser radar systems have been developed and applied to a variety of problems, including military systems to image solid objects and map their velocities. This paper addresses primarily civilian applications of coherent lidar systems for observations of the atmosphere. >
Racial/ethnic disparities in the treatment of localized/regional prostate cancer.

ABSTRACTPurpose: Racial/ethnic disparities in the utilization of definitive therapy for prostate cancer are well recognized in the United States. The effect of race on the use of contemporary definitive therapies, including brachytherapy, and the assessment of Hispanic men with regard to racial/ethnic disparity has not been fully characterized.Materials and Methods: We evaluated treatment patterns using Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results registry data on 142,340 localized/regional stage cases between 1992 and 1999 in white, black and Hispanic American men. Definitive therapy was defined as radical prostatectomy, external beam radiation, brachytherapy or combinations thereof. Logistic regression models were constructed to determine the odds of receiving definitive treatment, adjusting for age, marital status, tumor grade, and Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results site.Results: Black and Hispanic men were less likely to receive definitive therapy than white men (p <0.001). Higher tumor grade wa...
A randomized, flexible-dose, quasi-naturalistic comparison of quetiapine, risperidone, and olanzapine in the short-term treatment of schizophrenia: The QUERISOLA trial

This was a randomized, flexible-dose, rater-blind, parallel-group, quasi-naturalistic trial comparing the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of quetiapine, risperidone, and olanzapine in patients with schizophrenia hospitalized for severe psychotic symptoms. Seventy-five patients were randomized to quetiapine (n=25), risperidone (n=25), or olanzapine (n=25). Mean doses at Week 8 were: 590.0 mg/day quetiapine; 5.1 mg/day risperidone; 15.1 mg/day olanzapine. Four quetiapine, five risperidone, and five olanzapine patients discontinued prior to Week 8. There were no significant differences between groups in the primary efficacy measures of improvement from baseline in Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) total score at Week 8 in the per protocol (PP) population and the number of completers who experienced >or=40% improvement on the same scale. PP and intent-to-treat analyses showed significant improvement from baseline in each component of a PANSS-derived battery, without significant differences between treatments. No quetiapine patients, one risperidone, and four olanzapine patients reported an adverse event (AE) of moderate intensity; no severe AEs were reported. A linear mixed model for repeated measures showed an effect of treatment on body weight, with significant differences favoring quetiapine over risperidone and olanzapine. Simpson-Angus Scale scores were significantly worse with risperidone compared with both olanzapine and quetiapine at Week 3 and compared with quetiapine thereafter. Use of concomitant medications for anxiety or tension was significantly less frequent with quetiapine. In conclusion, quetiapine, risperidone, and olanzapine have similar efficacy in schizophrenia, but there are drug-specific differences for some AEs and in the use of concomitant medication that differentiate these agents.
Anti-Thrombin III in the Management of Hematopoietic Stem-Cell Transplantation—Associated Toxicity

OBJECTIVE:To describe the evidence assessing the use of anti-thrombin III (AT-III) in the management of toxicity associated with hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT)—conditioning regimens.DATA SOURCES:Clinical literature was accessed through conference proceedings, EMBASE, the Cochrane database, and MEDLINE (1966-December 2003).STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:Case reports, small case series, case—control and cohort studies, and randomized controlled trials of AT-III in HSCT were evaluated. Publications examining AT-III use in the non-HSCT setting were also explored. Key search terms included AT-III, transplantation, and veno-occlusive disease (VOD).DATA SYNTHESIS:Severe VOD and ensuing multiple organ dysfunction is associated with high mortality in HSCT. A low AT-III level has been shown to correlate with the development of organ dysfunction. Phase II trials, case series, and one small, randomized, placebo-controlled study suggest a benefit when AT-III therapy is instituted early in the cour...
Coordinated replication timing of monoallelically expressed genes along human autosomes

A number of genes in the mammalian genome are expressed from only one of two alleles in either an imprinted or random manner. Those belonging to the random class include X-linked genes subject to X inactivation, as well as a number of autosomal genes, including odorant receptors, immunoglobulins, T-cell receptors, interleukins, natural killer-cell receptors and pheromone receptors. Monoallelically expressed genes display the unusual property of asynchronous replication and for those genes whose transcription is randomly monoallelic, the asynchronous replication is also random. In mice, recent work has shown that the random asynchronous replication of distributed autosomal genes is coordinated at the whole chromosome level, indicative of chromosome-pair non-equivalence. Here, we show that autosome-pair non-equivalence is present in human cells, and demonstrate its ability to cross the centromere. Additionally, by examining the replication of these genes in a number of human trisomies, we consistently find one allele replicating early and the other two alleles replicating late, similar to previous observations in X trisomies.
Statistical Mechanics Approach To Image Differencing Based Inspection

ABSTRACT Image differencing based inspection allows the comparison of a prior reference image with a subsequent in-speciion image to detect changes that can be attributed to flaw induced damage between inspection periods. Inour application, the inspection system is required to find new flaws to orbiting space structures that might ariseas a result of micro-meteorites, space debris, effects of atomic oxygen damage etc. Direct differencing of these"before" and "after" signals for the flaw detection problem is complicated by changes that are not the result offlaws. These benign changes result from the image noise, mis-registration effects induced by non-repeatability inthe imaging viewpoint at each inspection period, and variability of ambient illumination resulting from change ofsolar angle induced by orbital motioi. In this paper we discuss the methods by which some of these effects arehandled and suggest a modeling framework using statistical mechanics techniques. 1 INTRODUCTION
Evaluation of Modal and FEMA Pushover Analyses: SAC Buildings

This paper comprehensively evaluates the Modal Pushover Analysis (MPA) procedure against the ‘‘exact’’ nonlinear response history analysis (RHA) and investigates the accuracy of seismic demands determined by pushover analysis using FEMA-356 force distributions; the MPA procedure in this paper contains several improvements over the original version presented in Chopra and Goel (2002). Seismic demands are computed for six buildings, each analyzed for 20 ground motions. It is demonstrated that with increasing number of ‘‘modes’’ included, the height-wise distribution of story drifts and plastic rotations estimated by MPA becomes generally similar to trends noted from nonlinear RHA. The additional bias and dispersion introduced by neglecting ‘‘modal’’ coupling and P-D effects due to gravity loads in MPA procedure is small unless the building is deformed far into the inelastic range with significant degradation in lateral capacity. A comparison of the seismic demands computed by FEMA-356 NSP and nonlinear RHA showed that FEMA-356 lateral force distributions lead to gross underestimation of story drifts and completely fail to identify plastic rotations in upper stories compared to the values from the nonlinear RHA. The ‘‘Uniform’’ force distribution in FEMA-356 NSP seems unnecessary because it grossly overestimates drifts and plastic rotations in lower stories and grossly underestimates them in upper stories. The MPA procedure resulted in estimates of demand that were much better than from FEMA force distributions over a wide range of responses—from essentially elastic response of Boston buildings to strongly inelastic response of Los Angeles buildings. However, pushover analysis procedures cannot be expected to provide satisfactory estimates of seismic demands for buildings deforming far into the inelastic range with significant degradation of the lateral capacity; for such cases, nonlinear RHA becomes necessary. [DOI: 10.1193/1.1646390]
Sensor Management Fusion Using Operating Conditions

System control includes sensor management, user refinement, and mission accomplishment (SUM). An example of simultaneous tracking and identification includes (1) mission goals of resource appropriation and goal priorities, (2) user selection of targets and areas of coverage, and (3) fusion of data and sensory information. Many sensor management (SM) approaches are data-driven which includes filtering, aggregation, and normalization; however that does not include intelligent design. A top-down approach would facilitate the use of the right sensor, collecting the needed information, at the correct time. In order to better design SM algorithms, we utilize sensor, target, environmental, and automatic target recognition performance models for automatic target exploitation (ATE) prediction. Similar to pruning nodes in a Bayes net aggregation, a sensor manager can utilize the operating conditions (OCs) {i.e. sensor, target, environment} to condition the cost function, sensor-to-target assignment constraints, and scheduling times. An example is presented of determining task value of electro-optical sensor selection and scheduling based on the range to target, target size, and environmental conditions (e.g. occlusions). The key aspect of the SMOC provides accurate assignment and scheduling based on up-to-date database information, a capabilities matrix, and pragmatic sensor use to improve task satisfaction.
Alloantigen systems L and P influence phagocytic function independent of the major histocompatability complex (B) in chickens

Abstract Synthetic parent stocks were designed to produce progeny among which alleles were simultaneously segregating for nine alloantigen systems, including the MHC (B). Chicks from Ancona-derived B19B19 females crossed with White leghorn B19B21 males were blood typed, resulting in genotypic categories for the A-E, C, D, H, I, L, and P loci with the objective of determining which, if any, of the eight non-MHC alloantigen systems influence or interact with the B system genotypes for blood monocyte phagocytic activity. Leukocytes obtained from whole blood at 2 and 4 wk were separated on a Fico/Lite LymphoH,TM density gradient and were allowed to adhere to glass coverslips. The resulting adherent monocyte monolayers were incubated with viable Escherichia coli for 1 h and stained with Leukostat,TM and the phagocytic monocytes and numbers of internalized bacteria per phagocytic monocyte were scored microscopically. The combined results from two separate trials demonstrated that the genotypes of the A-E, C, D, H, and I systems did not differ in the percentage of monocytes exhibiting phagocytosis, whereas significant differences were noted relative to the B system genotype at 2 wk of age (B19B21 > B19B19; P = 0.049), L at 4 wk (L1L1 > L1L2; P = 0.009), and P at 4 wk (P4P4 > P1P1; P = 0.047). The data were further analyzed to determine any interactions of P and L alloantigen genotypes with the B system genotypes; no such interaction was observed. These studies suggest that the L and P non-MHC alloantigen systems have the potential to influence immune responses by modulating phagocytic function in chickens. Furthermore, this modulation seems to be independent of the B (MHC) system.
Use of reference frame in haptic virtual environments: implications for users with visual impairments

Reference frame is key in explaining the relationship between two objects. This paper focused on the orientation parameter of a reference frame in use of projective spatial terms, and its use by visually impaired participants using a haptic device to explore a haptic virtual environment. A total of nine visually impaired participants between 12 and 17 years of age participated in this study. After exploring the 3D virtual environment with a haptic device, participants answered questions about the frame they had utilized. Overall results indicated that the participants used relative frame of reference slightly more than the intrinsic frame of reference. This inclination was especially clear when both the target object and the reference object were on the horizontal plane. Only when objects were on horizontal plane but intrinsically vertical to the reference object, the intrinsic frame of reference was preferred. We also found evidence that participants used a reflective subtype of the relative frame, and vertically aligned objects were easy to be perceived with the relative reference frame. We concluded that the virtual environment and haptic input had influence on the result by separating the user from the computer, only allowing one point of contact. Thus it would be possible to apply the result of this study to the development and assessment of assistive technology for people with visual impairment, especially in regard to how spatial information between the systems and the user is communicated.
Remembrances of contributions of Philip Smith and Bernardo Houssay to the development of neuroendocrinology.

Two endocrinologists whose work I always greatly admired, starting in my early graduate student days, and whom I later came to know personally were Philip Smith and Bernardo Houssay. Although both have been universally esteemed and honored as preeminent endocrinologists, their pioneer efforts in neuroendocrinology have not always been recognized as such. Both exerted tremendous influence not only from the importance of their own research, but also because of the many students they trained. Both possessed warm, modest, friendly personalities and were happy to discuss the work of younger colleagues with them. Both lived well past their 80th birthdays, but died in the early 1970s, too early to prepare a chapter for the 1975 volume of Pioneers in Neuroendocrinology. A major component of Smith's success lay in his remarkable ability to devise and execute precise techniques for clean hypophysectomy that did not damage the hypothalamus.
Can virtue be taught and how? Confucius on the paradox of moral education

In this paper I shall first examine an apparent paradox in Confucius’ view on whether everyone is perfectible through education: on the one hand, he states that education should be provided to all, on the other hand, he says that common people cannot be made to know things. To understand this apparent paradox, I shall argue that education for Confucius is primarily moral education, as he teaches his students to become virtuous persons. So the apparent paradox is really one about whether virtue can be taught. I shall argue in the last section that while Confucius’ answer to the question is affirmative, he does not think that virtue can be taught in the same way as theoretical knowledge or technical skills are taught. For Confucius, the most effective way to teach people to be virtuous is through personal example.
DNA-Wrapped Carbon Nanotubes as Potential Optoelectronic Materials

In the frame of tight-binding theory, we investigate modulation of the optical properties of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) helically wrapped with single-stranded DNA. We predict that certain wraps may qualitatively change the one-electron absorption spectrum for light polarized across the SWNT. Lifting of the optical selection rules is due to nanotube symmetry-breaking in the Coulomb potential of the ionized DNA backbone.
Adrenal Suppression with Aminoglutethimide. I. Differential Effects of Aminoglutethimide on Glucocorticoid Metabolism as a Rationale for Use of Hydrocortisone12

The morbidity resulting from surgical adrenalectomy in patients with metastatic breast carcinoma has limited the use of this procedure to highly selected patients. Consequently, a chemical method of adrenal inhibition was developed which used aminoglutethimide to block cholesterol to pregnenolone conversion and dexamethasone as replacement glucocorticoid. This regimen effectively lowered urinary free cortisol excretion but was complicated by a drug interaction in which aminoglutethimide accelerated the metabolism of dexamethasone and reduced its bioavailability. Theoretically, replacement of dexamethasone with a glucocorticoid not subject to drug altered degradation would eliminate this drug interaction and simplify therapy. In order to determine whether hydrocortisone could be used, the metabolism and biological activity of this glucocorticoid was evaluated before and during aminoglutethimide administration. The plasma half-life, volume of distribution and metabolic clearance rate of hydrocortisone as de...
Correlates of Self-Reported Nocturia Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Background Nocturia is a common and bothersome problem with multifactorial etiology. This study examines clinical factors that are associated with nocturia among community-dwelling older adults.
Direct kinetics study of the temperature dependence of the CH2O branching channel for the CH3O2 + HO2 reaction

A direct kinetics study of the temperature dependence of the CH2O branching channel for the CH3O2 + HO2 reaction has been performed using the turbulent flow technique with high-pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry for the detection of reactants and products. The temperature dependence of the CH2O-producing channel rate constant was investigated between 298 and 218 K at a pressure of 100 Torr, and the data were fitted to the following Arrhenius expression: 1.6 × 10−15 × exp[(1730 ± 130)/T] cm3 molecule−1 s−1. Using the Arrhenius expression for the overall rate of the CH3O2 + HO2 reaction and this result, the 298 K branching ratio for the CH2O producing channel is measured to be 0.11, and the branching ratio is calculated to increase to a value of 0.31 at 218 K, the lowest temperature accessed in this study. The results are compared to the analogous CH3O2 + CH3O2 reaction and the potential atmospheric ramifications of significant CH2O production from the CH3O2 + HO2 reaction are discussed. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 33: 363–376, 2001
One Server, Finite Queue (M/M/1/N)

This chapter explores the one-server, finite capacity system with exponential inter-arrival and service times. Could be, a one-man barbershop with three seats for the waiting customers. The difference, equilibrium and reduced equations are listed, and the probability on the number of units in the system are developed, along with the performance measures. Examples are presented.