cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
RESOURCES AND UNDERSEA THREATS (RUST) DATABASE: AN ASSESSMENT TOOL FOR IDENTIFYING AND EVALUATING SUBMERGED HAZARDS WITHIN THE NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARIES

In order be proactive in identifying potential risk of oil or chemical releases from submerged sources, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has developed the Resources and UnderSea Threats (RUST) database. This paper describes the development, structural content and data analysis tools incorporated in the database. The RUST database integrates data from federal, state and private sources. It is used to inventory, analyze and provide resource managers and responders with the necessary information to assess risk, and to plan and respond to a variety of submerged releases. Initial population of the RUST database for all U.S. waters will occur by 2006.
Two modes of case management: Assessing their impact

This is a study of two strategies of case management-Community Treatment Teams (CTTs) and Intensive Case Management Teams (ICMTs). A random sample of 30 cases from the CTT group were matched with 30 cases from the ICMT group using 4 criteria. Data were collected from case records and verified with case managers. The analysis revealed that although the CTTs engaged in more case management activities, there were few significant differences in the outcomes of the two approaches. The results are discussed in relation to a possible "ceiling effect" of case management, cost effectiveness, and limitations in the sample.
Thermodynamics of solution of SO 2 (g) in water and of aqueous sulfur dioxide

A consistent set of thermochemical property values at 298.15K is given for the known constituents of aqueous sulfur dioxide. Also tabulated are values of the mean ionic activity coefficients, osmotic coefficients, partial pressure of SO/sub 2/(g), and the relative apparent molar enthalpy as a function of concentration of SO/sub 2/(aq) at 298.15K. The data analysis considered a wide variety of measurement techniques: calormetric enthalpies of solution and reaction, heat capacities, equilibrium constants, solubilities, and vapor pressure measurements, both partial and total, over aqueous solutions of SO/sub 2/ for the temperature range 278 to 393K. All auxiliary data have been taken from the most-recent set of CODATA values which were converted to a standard-state pressure of one bar (0.1 MPa). Parameters are given which extend the predictions to temperatures up to 373K.
Review: Interferon and nucleoside/tide analogues reduce risk for hepatocellular cancer in patients with chronic hepatitis B

Source Citation Sung JJ, Tsoi KK, Wong VW, Li KC, Chan HL. Meta-analysis: Treatment of hepatitis B infection reduces risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2008;28:1067-77. 18657133
Expression of estrogen receptor α and β transcripts in female monkey hippocampus and hypothalamus

Understanding mechanisms of estrogen effects on cognition is critical for designing therapies for post-menopausal women and others with dementia. Hippocampus, an area important to cognitive function, responds robustly to estrogen. ERβ and ERα transcripts were detected in the hippocampus and hypothalamus of an ovariectomized female monkey at a relatively high ERβ/ERα ratio. These results suggest that ERβ may play a role in mediating estrogen effects in the primate hippocampus and hypothalamus.
Comparative ethometrics: Congruence of different multivariate analyses applied to the same ethological data

Abstract Five statistically appropriate multivariate analyses were applied to the same data on burrowing in the sea hare Aplysia brasiliana to: (1) identify homogeneous subject-related subgroups within a heterogeneous sample, and (2) compare the extent of congruency among the analyses in terms of the number of extracted subgroups and each subject's placement within the subgroups. Raw scores from 32 subjects on ten burrowing parameters were origin-corrected, standardized to z -scores, and normalized in order to facilitate comparisons among the analyses. One to five identified subgroups were extracted which indicated sensitivity differences to sampling variability among the methods. These results suggested that selecting a biologically interpretable analysis represents the subjective aspect of quantitative data treatment. Q -factor analysis (three subgroups) and linear typal analysis (four subgroups) yielded the most biologically interpretable subgroups for these data. Multidimensional scaling (one group) and principal-components analysis (two subgroups) tended to “lump” subjects, while simple distance-function cluster analysis (five subgroups) tended to “split” subjects into additional groups. As a diagonistic tool, multivariate analyses provide insight into underlying dimensions of individual variation and help generate testable hypotheses for guiding future research.
Estrogen targets fat mass and glucose metabolism by acting in the brain.

currently, about 66% of adults are overweight, and approximately ∼33% of adults are clinically obese. Excess weight is a risk factor for numerous conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, stroke, cancer, adverse reproductive outcomes, osteoarthritis, and
Alteration of intersubunit acid-base pair interactions at the quasi-threefold axis of symmetry of Cucumber mosaic virus disrupts aphid vector transmission.

In the atomic model of Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), six amino acid residues form stabilizing salt bridges between subunits of the asymmetric unit at the quasi-threefold axis of symmetry. To evaluate the effects of these positions on virion stability and aphid vector transmissibility, six charged amino acid residues were individually mutated to alanine. All of the six engineered viruses were viable and exhibited near wild type levels of virion stability in the presence of urea. Aphid vector transmissibility was nearly or completely eliminated in the case of four of the mutants; two mutants demonstrated intermediate aphid transmissibility. For the majority of the engineered mutants, second-site mutations were observed following aphid transmission and/or mechanical passaging, and one restored transmission rates to that of the wild type. CMV capsids tolerate disruption of acid–base pairing interactions at the quasi-threefold axis of symmetry, but these interactions are essential for maintaining aphid vector transmissibility.
Examining effects of television news violence on college students through cultivation theory

This investigation explored relationships between viewing television news coverage of the September 11, 2001 attacks and perceptions of violence initiated by people outside the United States, negative personal emotions, and personal relationships. Results suggest that amount of television news viewing in the wake of the attacks is related to negative personal emotions, positive views of Islamic individuals in general, and negativity of personal relationships with Islamic peers. These results extend work of Rossler and Brosius (2001) and others arguing that cultivation effects may be genre and/or content specific.
Obesity and cognitive dysfunction in heart failure: The role of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and physical fitness:

Background:Cognitive impairment is common in heart failure. Obesity is a known risk factor for cognitive dysfunction in heart failure, though the mechanisms remain unclear. Obesity increases risk for conditions like hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) as well as poor fitness levels, and this may serve as one possible pathway accounting for association between obesity and cognitive dysfunction.Aims:We used structural equation modeling to test whether the combination of hypertension, T2DM, and reduced fitness mediate the association between obesity and cognitive dysfunction.Methods:Two hundred heart failure patients completed neuropsychological testing and a physical fitness assessment. Hypertension and T2DM were ascertained via self-report and medical records. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated.Results:Forty-three percent of the sample was obese. Hypertension (70%) and T2DM (36%) were common, and fitness levels were reduced. The structural equation model with these factors as mediators betwe...
Layerwise Analysis of Thermal Shape Control in Graded Piezoelectric Beams

A layerwise finite element formulation developed for piezoelectric materials is used to investigate the displacement and stress response of a functionally graded piezoelectric bimorph actuator. The formulation is based on the principles of linear thermopiezoelectricity and accounts for the coupled mechanical, electrical, and thermal response of piezoelectric materials. The layerwise laminate theory is implemented into a linear beam element in order to provide a more accurate representation of the transverse and shear effects that are induced by increased inhomogeneities introduced through-the-thickness by using functionally graded materials. The accuracy of the formulation is verified with previously published experimental results for a piezoelectric bimorph actuator. Additional studies are conducted to analyze the impact of electric and thermal loads on the deflections and stresses in a bimorph actuator. Results of the study help demonstrate the capability of the layerwise theory to provide a more complete representation of shear effects that are no longer negligible even in thin piezoelectric beams. In addition, the effects of varying piezoelectric properties through-the-thickness of the beam are shown to provide additional benefits in minimizing the induced deformations and stresses.
Optimal production runs of processes subject to systematic trends

This article describes how to fit a non-linear model to the process mean of processes subject to systematic trends. Determination of the optimal length of the production run is discussed for single and double specification limits. The results are also applicable for linear trends. Illustrative examples show how the optimal production run is calculated.
Regulation of Cardiovascular Development and Physiology by Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1a

Hypoxia is an essential pathophysiologic component of ischemic cardiovascular disease. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying adaptive responses to hypoxia may lead to novel therapeutic strategies. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) is a heterodimeric basic-helix-loop-helix-PAS domain transcription factor that mediates changes in gene expression in response to changes in O2 concentration. Genes that are transcriptionally activated by HIF-1 in hypoxic cells encode proteins that increase O2 delivery or allow metabolic adaptation to limited O2 availability. HIF-1 target genes include those encoding vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), erythropoietin, glucose transporters, and glycolytic enzymes. In anemic fetal sheep, increased myocardial vascularization was associated with concomitant increases in the expression of HIF-1 and VEGF. Expression of HIF-1 target genes was not induced by hypoxia in embryonic stem cells lacking expression of the O2-regulated HIF-1 alpha subunit. Mouse embryos lacking HIF-1 alpha expression arrested in their development by E9.0 and died by E10.5 with cardiovascular malformations and massive cell death throughout the embryo. These studies indicate that HIF-1 functions as a master regulator of O2 homeostasis that controls the establishment of essential physiologic systems during embryogenesis as well as their subsequent utilization during fetal and postnatal life.
Compact Wilkinson power divider based on novel via-less composite right/left-handed (CRLH) transmission lines

We present the design and development of a compact Wilkinson power divider based on novel via-less composite righ/left-handed (CRLH) transmission lines. The power divider is designed by replacing all conventional right-handed quarter-wavelength transmission lines by CRLH transmission lines. The experimental results demonstrate that the power divider operates at center frequency of 1.75 GHz with occurred area 89.8% smaller than that of the conventional design at the same frequency. Based on 15 dB input return-loss criteria, the power divider has measured bandwidth from 1.4 to 2.1 GHz or 40% fractional bandwidth. Within this operating band, the measured insertion loss of the divider is better than 0.7 dB; the measured isolation is better than 15 dB up to 1.85 GHz and better than 12.7 dB up to 2.1 GHz.
Haptics using a smart material for eyes-free interaction in personal devices

We present a proof of concept (POC) for haptic interaction when audio or visual feedback is not practical. The POC includes addressable arrays of two-way Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) springs which can operate at a lower voltage and temperature compatible with mobile devices. They will form different shapes due to the thermal effect as current travels through the springs. The POC can simultaneously realize multiple methods for conveying haptic information such as dimension, force, texture and temperature due to the flexible array design. The haptic interface can go back to the original shape by itself after the current is off due to the advance of two way SMA. We are developing applications with different POC designs for tangible interactions.
Modal expansions for resonance scattering phenomena

This paper very briefly reviews certain approaches commonly used to predict scattering in the region between those amenable to either high or low frequency approximations. As an alternative to extensions of such approximations into this so-called "resonance region," the suggestion is made that the concept of modal expansions of fields be investigated. The existence of such characteristic modes is reasoned heuristically and certain speculations are presented concerning their properties and their determination.
Private speech: a study of language for thought in the collaborative interaction of language learners

This article analyzes the speech of English-speaking college students of Spanish working in pairs to produce compositions in Spanish. Although there was considerable variability in the frequency of private speech from one dyad to another, the main goal of the study was to analyze those instances of private speech that could be clearly identified by both linguistic and paralinguistic evidence. Eight such excerpts are analyzed and discussed here. The analysis reveals that private speech of the participants facilitated two fundamental cognitive operations: focusing of attention and the creation of psychological distance. That is, private speech enabled the participants to concentrate on the task at crucial moments and to distance themselves from the problems they encountered, thereby achieving a perspective that in turn helped them to gain control in the performance of the task. It is argued that private speech that occurs in a social context can be identified and analyzed, and ultimately distinguished from social speech.
Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Activities in Academic Departments of Medicine

Academic departments of internal medicine have traditionally focused on their mission to provide clinical services, educate the next generation, and conduct research. As requirements to engage in formal quality improvement and patient safety (QI/PS) activities increase, academic departments provide an important setting to design, implement, and critically evaluate care delivery systems, as well as lead the science and application of QI/PS efforts nationally. Academic departments traditionally have played a passive role in QI/PS activities, which were predominantly carried out by the hospital. More often than not, governance structures for the medical school and the hospital are separated, with distinct cultures, finances, and reward systems. Quality and safety leaders often reside organizationally within the hospital’s quality departments, with little connection to the medical school or graduate medical education. This organizational dichotomy makes it challenging to engage department chairs, clinicians, and educators in QI/PS efforts. As the role of academic department in QI/PS activities evolves, the organizational structure around these activities (eg, where QI/PS leaders reside, who owns these activities, how they are funded and supported) will change. Currently, little information is available on the organizational structure of QI/PS activities within academic departments. It is unclear the types of QI/PS activities in which departments are involved and how much ownership they assume. A recent review of the literature revealed only 2 articles that provide a comprehensive overview of how QI/PS activities are organized within a single academic department. To learn about the current organizational structure of QI/PS activities in academic departments in US medical schools, we surveyed chairs and QI/PS managers about the scope and content of QI/PS activities in their departments. The goal of this article is to describe the current state of involvement and ownership for QI/PS activities in academic departments, including how these activities are supported and funded.
A Generalized Least Significant Change for Individuals Measured on Different DXA Systems

In this article, we derive a generalized expression for the least significant change (LSC), which we call the generalized LSC (GLSC), to be used when an individual is measured on 2 different systems. The commonly used LSC is defined as the least amount of change between 2 measurements over time that must be exceeded before a change can be considered true (with 95% confidence). The LSC has clinical applications in monitoring disease progression or treatment effects in bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content. Mathematically, the "ideal" LSC (ILSC) is 2.77 times the precision errors for measures on a single system. When BMD values of an individual are measured by 2 different systems, the LSC will depend not only on the precision errors of both systems but also on the calibration relationship between the systems. Like the ILSC, the GLSC is a simple equation applicable for inter machine comparisons. The GLSC can be defined for any 2 systems with measures obtained from cross-calibration and precision studies using the protocols recommended by the International Society for Clinical Densitometry. We validated the GLSC using 10,000 simulated measurements taken between 2 systems and offer several common uses of the GLSC such as system upgrades within a single manufacturer and replacement of 1 manufacturer by another. We found that when upgrading a Hologic QDR-2000 to a QDR-4500, GLSC was twice as large as the QDR-2000 LSC (0.0432 and 0.0215 g/cm2, respectively). The GLSC was 2.6 (spine) to 3.6 (total hip) times larger than the LSC when comparing scans between the Hologic Delphi and the GE Lunar Prodigy. We also explore how the magnitude of the correlation coefficient and sample size change the GLSC and show that a correlation coefficient less than 0.95 increases the %GLSC to above 10%, and that increasing study sample sizes beyond 30 in the cross-calibration studies can only decrease the magnitude of the GLSC accuracy by 4%. We conclude that the GLSC, defined using commonly used clinical cross-calibration and precision assessments, is the most accurate method to compare scans between dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry systems.
DNA repair by articular chondrocytes. III. Unscheduled DNA synthesis following ultraviolet light irradiation of resting cartilage

Abstract Unscheduled DNA synthesis (UDS) was demonstrated both in fresh slices of rabbit articular cartilage and in resting chondrocytes dissociated from it. Uptake of [ 3 H]thymidine by chondrocytes treated with 10 mM hydroxyurea and irradiated with 254 nm ultraviolet light (20 J/m 2 ) was measured by autoradiography. The UDS in the resting chondrocytes was minuscule compared with that of chondrocytes growing in monolayer culture. It was greater in resting cells from 3- than in 18-month old rabbits but persisted in animals up to 52 months of age. In both resting and cultured chondrocytes, UDS was greatly inhibited by aphidicolin (5 μg/ml). The finding of age-related decrease in UDS of resting chondrocytes, contrasted with previously demonstrated lack of it in dividing ones, raises questions about in vitro artefacts in studies of cellular senescence.
Content-based document enhancement by fuzzy clustering with spatial constraints

In this paper, we present a new system to segment and label the contents of scanned documents as either text or image, using a modified fuzzy c-means (FCM) algorithm. Each pixel is assigned a feature pattern extracted from the gray level distribution and computed at different scales. The invariant feature pattern is then assigned to a specific region using fuzzy logic. Our algorithm is formulated by modifying the objective function of the standard FCM algorithm to allow the labeling of a pixel to be influenced by the labels in its immediate neighborhood. The neighborhood effect acts as a regularizer and biases the solution towards piecewise-homogeneous labelings. Such a regularization is useful in segmenting scans corrupted by scanner noise.
Magnetic Scattering of Slow Neutrons

According to well-known theoretical results, atomic or ionic magnetic moments should per se contribute to the cross section for the scattering of slow neutrons. It is suggested that this contribution may be separated from that due to nuclear scattering by a comparison of the scattering of a metal with the scattering from the corresponding ions of different valence. This magnetic scattering should occur in unmagnetized paramagnetic bodies and, in favorable cases, should be several times as great as the nuclear scattering. Accepting the present value for the magnetic moment of the neutron such experiments will yield information concerning the velocity distribution of the incident neutrons.
Inhibition of Dopamine Transporter Activity by G Protein βγ Subunits

Uptake through the Dopamine Transporter (DAT) is the primary mechanism of terminating dopamine signaling within the brain, thus playing an essential role in neuronal homeostasis. Deregulation of DAT function has been linked to several neurological and psychiatric disorders including ADHD, schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, and drug addiction. Over the last 15 years, several studies have revealed a plethora of mechanisms influencing the activity and cellular distribution of DAT; suggesting that fine-tuning of dopamine homeostasis occurs via an elaborate interplay of multiple pathways. Here, we show for the first time that the βγ subunits of G proteins regulate DAT activity. In heterologous cells and brain tissue, a physical association between Gβγ subunits and DAT was demonstrated by co-immunoprecipitation. Furthermore, in vitro pull-down assays using purified proteins established that this association occurs via a direct interaction between the intracellular carboxy-terminus of DAT and Gβγ. Functional assays performed in the presence of the non-hydrolyzable GTP analog GTP-γ-S, Gβγ subunit overexpression, or the Gβγ activator mSIRK all resulted in rapid inhibition of DAT activity in heterologous systems. Gβγ activation by mSIRK also inhibited dopamine uptake in brain synaptosomes and dopamine clearance from mouse striatum as measured by high-speed chronoamperometry in vivo. Gβγ subunits are intracellular signaling molecules that regulate a multitude of physiological processes through interactions with enzymes and ion channels. Our findings add neurotransmitter transporters to the growing list of molecules regulated by G-proteins and suggest a novel role for Gβγ signaling in the control of dopamine homeostasis.
Nucleotide sequences of the PA and PB1 genes of B/Ann Arbor/1/66 virus: comparison with genes of B/Lee/40 and type A influenza viruses

Abstract The complete sequences of the PA and PB1 genome RNA segments of B/Ann Arbor/1/66 virus have been determined. The PA vRNA is 2308 bases long. Its complementary RNA has a single open reading frame of 2187 bases, capable of encoding a PA protein of 726 amino acids with a molecular weight of 83,175 Da. The predicted PA polypeptide has an overall net charge of — 7.5 at pH 7.0. The PB1 vRNA is 2369 bases long. Its complementary RNA has a single open reading frame of 2277 bases, capable of encoding a PB1 protein of 752 amino acids with a molecular weight of 84,332 Da. The predicted PB1 polypeptide has an overall net charge of + 18.5 at pH 7.0. Sequence homology comparisons of the PA and PB1 polypeptides from B/Ann Arbor/1/66 virus to the PA and PB1 polypeptides of type A influenza virus reveal respective homologies of approximately 38 and 60%. This high cross-type homology (61%) was previously reported for the PB1 protein of B/Lee/40 virus (Kemdirim et al., 1986). The cross-type homology for the PA protein is similar to that of other non-polymerase proteins, but is substantially lower than that seen for the PB1 protein. Thus, the high cross-type homology that exists for the PB1 gene does not appear to be a characteristic of all polymerase genes.
Average effects of forced convection over a flat plate with an unheated starting length

Abstract Parallel flow over a flat plate with an unheated starting length is a good approximation of actual conditions in many engineering applications. A single general closed-form analytical solution for the average heat transfer coefficient for either an isothermal or isoflux boundary condition and for either laminar or turbulent flow is presented. For a smooth surface experiencing a uniform heat flux, the average surface temperature is also of interest. Individual analytical expressions are presented for the average temperature of a flat plate with an isoflux boundary condition for both laminar and turbulent flow. These expressions provide an expeditious means of determining average conditions for convective flow over a partially heated flat plate.
Generalized Fokker-Planck Kinetic Model

We study some consequences of a nonlinear kinetic model that has the structure of a constant-collision-time, Fokker-Planck equation. The collision operator, however, satisfies momentum and energy conservation in addition to particle conservation. One can find the relaxation spectrum for the nonlinear as well as linear problem. It consists of an infinite sequence of decays with the spectrum of the quantum harmonic oscillator. It is also possible to solve exactly the initial-value problem for the linearized kinetic equation. The Green's function for the complete operator obeys a degenerate integral equation containing the Green's function of the usual Fokker-Planck equation. We find the exact time-dependent density correlation function and thus the inelastic scattering cross section that determines the neutron scattering and the Brillouin scattering of light from the system.
Impact of Patient and Caregiver Transfer Training Provided by a Physical Therapist in the Hospice Setting: A Case Study

Background:As patients in hospice become increasingly dependent upon caregivers, physical therapy interventions can minimize the risk of injury to the patient or caregiver that may occur during transfers between surfaces.Case Description:A 68-year-old male hospice patient was referred to physical therapy for strengthening and transfer training after a fall that resulted in the patient remaining in bed for 5 weeks due to an increased fear of falling. Treatments focused on caregiver training for correct transfer techniques.Outcome:During 10 treatment sessions, the patient and caregiver became independent and safe with all transfers. Although the patient’s health declined, his risk for and fear of falling decreased. Confidence with transfers improved for the patient and caregiver.Discussion:Physical therapy “benefits were immeasurable” for the patient and caregiver by teaching them how to safely perform patient transfers with reduced risk of injury.
Conditional Party Government and Member Turnout on Senate Recorded Votes, 1873-1935

According to the conditional party government thesis, party members bond or precommit themselves to supporting party positions under certain circumstances. A test of this thesis asks whether party members are more likely to participate in a roll call vote when the question has been identified by party leaders as important to the party. We show that party leadership signals systematically affected member turnout levels in the U. S. Senate during 1873-1935. On average, two-party turnout on party-salient votes rose by more than five members during 1873-1923 and more than three members during 1923-35 relative to "nonsalient" votes. These results also provide evidence of cohesive partisan behavior in the Senate well before the parties began the regular practice of designating floor leaders and whips.
7210 Patient anxiety in the preprocedure endoscopy area: effect of music on anxiety levels.

Patient anxiety levels before impending endoscopy can lead to increased blood pressure and heart rate, apprehension and anxiety. As a result, patients may require additional sedatives and experience greater discomfort during a procedure. This study evaluated the effectiveness of listening to music in the preprocedure area as a means of decreasing patient anxiety. Method: Ninety-five patients undergoing a variety of endoscopies, including EGDs, flexible sigmoidoscopies and colonoscopies were randomly assigned to music intervention (N=48) or a control group (N=47). Demographic characteristics were similar in each group. Patients with hearing loss, diagnosed psychiatric disorders, and diagnosed hypertension were excluded. Patients' anxiety levels were obtained using the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and by vital signs both before and after music intervention. Subjects listened to a selected tape from among several categories of music (classical, new age, or easy listening) for 15 minutes using cassette players with headphones. Controls rested or read during this period also with headphones (but without music) to minimize extraneous noise. All study subjects completed a patient satisfaction survey at the end of the intervention period. Results: Both the music group and controls showed improvement from baseline state anxiety scores as measured by STAI, but the improvement in state anxiety levels in the music group was significantly higher over controls (change in mean score of -5.6 vs. -2.4, p=0.039). Respiration rate improved dramatically in the music group (-1.8 breaths/min) while no change was experienced by controls (p=0.0002). Both groups also experienced decreased heart rates and systolic and diastolic blood pressures in the post-intervention period, but no significant differences were found between groups. Finally, 93% of the music group said on the patient satisfaction survey that music helped relax them, and they felt that music would be beneficial to them if repeat endoscopy was needed. Conclusion: Patients preparing to undergo endoscopy who were exposed to relaxing music experienced lowered state anxiety levels and respiration rates. Exposure to music also resulted in high levels of patient satisfaction. The findings from this study suggest that the use of music can be a cost-effective, noninvasive intervention for preparing patients for endoscopic procedures.
Paclitaxel albumin-bound particles (abraxane) in combination with bevacizumab with or without gemcitabine: early experience at the University of Miami/Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute.

Abstract Background Paclitaxel albumin-bound particles (nab-paclitaxel, ABRAXANE™) (nab-P) improve outcomes when compared against single agent cremophor-based paclitaxel, as do the addition of bevacizumab (B) or gemcitabine (G) to the same agent. There are no available data regarding combinations of nab-P with B and/or G. Ongoing investigational efforts are evaluating various doublets with these agents, but, to the best of our knowledge, not all 3 of them in the same regimen. All drugs are currently FDA-approved in the treatment of cancer. Methods Review of single-institution experience, evaluating safety and preliminary evidence of activity with the use of nab-P and B with and without G in heavily pretreated her2neu-negative metastatic breast cancer patients. Assessment of response was undertaken by the investigators independently of treating physician. RECIST criteria were used. Results Six women have been evaluated. Three patients received nab-P and B at the following doses: nab-P 100 mg/m 2 , B 10 mg/kg and 3 patients also received G at 1000 mg/m 2 ; all 3 drugs were given every 2 weeks. Median age was 51 (range, 34–69). Two patients had hormone-receptor positive disease and 3 had ER/PR/her2neu-negative cancer. Median prior number of regimens was 3 (range, 2–7). Five patients had been previously treated with a taxane. One received both paclitaxel and docetaxel, and 4 received docetaxel only. A median of 16 weeks of treatment has been administered (range 8+–32+). First-cycle grade 3/4 toxicity was seen in only one patient who had a baseline grade 2 thrombocytopenia that progressed to grade 3. The thrombocytopenia resolved without transfusion or hemorrhagic complication. Other treatment related toxicities were as follows: grade 2 peripheral neuropathy, 1 patient; grade 2 nausea, 1 patient. One patient had a blood pressure of 210/140 mmHg while non-compliant with her prior anti-hypertensive therapy. Two patients had confirmed partial responses and 4 patients had stable disease. Conclusion These very preliminary data suggest that nab-P in combination with B with and without G is a safe regimen and a formal phase II trial has been developed at the University of Miami to confirm its safety and clinical activity.
Suppression of epidermal growth factor–induced phospholipase C activation associated with actin rearrangement in rat hepatocytes in primary culture

Hepatocytes maintained in primary culture for periods of 1 to 24 hours exhibited a rapid decline in epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced activation of phospholipase C (PLC), as was evident in a loss of EGF-induced inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3 ) formation and mobilization of Ca2+ from intracellular Ca2+ stores. The loss of PLC activation was not the result of a decrease in EGF receptor or phospholipase C-γ1 (PLCγ1) protein levels, nor the result of a loss of tyrosine phosphorylation of these proteins, but was associated with a decrease in EGF-induced translocation of PLCγ1 to the Triton-insoluble fraction, presumably reflecting binding to the actin cytoskeleton. Disruption of F-actin by treatment of cultured hepatocytes with cytochalasin D recovered the EGF-induced IP3 formation and Ca2+ mobilization to the same level and with the same dose-response relationship as was obtained in freshly isolated cells. Analysis of PLCγ1 colocalization with F-actin by confocal microscopy showed that PLCγ1 was mostly distributed diffusely in the cytosol, both in freshly plated cells and in cells in culture for 24 hours, despite marked differences in actin structures. EGF stimulation caused a modest redistribution of PLCγ1 and a detectable increase in colocalization with cortical actin structures in freshly plated cells or in cytochalasin D-treated cells, but in cells that had been maintained and spread in culture only a limited PLCγ1 relocation was detected to specific actin-structure associated with lamellipodia and membrane ruffles. We conclude that actin cytoskeletal structures can exert negative control over PLCγ1 activity in hepatocytes and the interaction of the enzyme with specific actin structures dissociates PLCγ1 tyrosine phosphorylation from activation of its enzymatic activity. (Hepatology 2000;32:947-957.)
Unconventionally sharp dynamic resonances from a disordered Wigner crystal

Motivated by puzzling results of recent experiments, we re-examine the response of a weakly pinned two-dimensional Wigner crystal to a uniform AC electric field. We confirm that at some disorder and magnetic field dependent frequency wp, an inhomogeneously broadened absorption line emerges. Although the line is conventionally broad in zero magnetic field, in strong fields it appears as a sharp resonance whose width is related to the density of states in the low-frequency tail of the zero-field phonon spectrum. This behavior originates due to the long-range Coulomb interactions.
Cloning, overexpression, purification, and spectroscopic characterization of human S100P

The calcium-binding protein S100P has been found to be associated with human prostate cancer. We have overexpressed S100P in Escherichia coli using a T7 expression system. A rapid two-step procedure for the isolation of overexpressed S100P leads to a preparation of >95% pure protein with a yield of approximately 150 mg per liter of culture. The structural integrity of recombinant S100P was analyzed using CD and fluorescence spectroscopic techniques. The far-UV CD shows that secondary structure of recombinant S100P consists predominantly of a-helical structure. Both near-UV CD and tyrosine fluorescence spectra show that aromatic residues are involved in the formation of a specific, well packed structure, indicating that the recombinant S100P protein adopts a compact folded conformation. Ca2+ has a profound effect on S100P structure. Near-UV CD and fluorescence intensity of both internal (tyrosine) and external (ANS) probes suggest significant structural rearrangements in the tertiary structure of the molecule. The similarity of far-UV CD spectrum of S100P in the presence and in the absence of Ca2+ suggests that Ca2+ binding has only minor effects on secondary structure.
NMR dipole-dipole refocusing with shaped pulses

Sequences of shaped pulses have been successfully used in a number of applications of nuclear magnetic resonance and laser spectroscopy ( I ) . These shaped pulses have been designed by analytic calculations, perturbative expansions, or simple computerized optimization. In all of the experimental applications published to date, however, the spin or molecular Hamiltonian could be accurately approximated by a distribution of uncoupled and unrelaxed two-level systems. This is, of course, a stringent assumption, and even in the most favorable cases (high-resolution NMR, magnetic resonance imaging) it provides an ultimate limitation to pulse sequence performance. We show here, for the first time, that shaped pulses provide improved performance in strongly coupled systems as well. Multiple-pulse sequences have been used to eliminate magnetic dipole-dipole cou
Parametric Empirical Bayes Estimates of Truck Accident Rates

The two common approaches to estimation of truck accident rates are an aggregate method, in which the data from all available road segments are pooled, and a segment-specific method, in which separate accident-rate estimates are obtained for each road segment. The aggregate method benefits from the use of a relatively large data set, but fails to capture the variation across road segments that can potentially be measured with the segment specific approach. In this paper, we describe an empirical Bayes. procedure for obtaining reliable accident-rate estimates through use of an optimal compromise between the aggregate and the segment-specific estimation methods. We then examine two methods of determining accident probabilities from the empirical Bayes accident rates, an approximate method and an exact method. The empirical Bayes technique is applied to accident data from a regional network in northeast Ohio. Results show that the Bayes estimator behaves rationally; the estimates tend to balance the prior aggregate beliefs with segment-specific data while maintaining continuity between what were previously two separate estimation philosophies. Language: en
Grandparental investment as a function of relational uncertainty and emotional closeness with parents

Several theoretical perspectives have generated research on grandparental investment, notably socialization and evolutionary psychological perspectives. Using data collected from more than 200 older adults (mean age 67 years), we test three hypotheses derived from socialization and evolutionary perspectives about grandparents’ relationships with and investment in grandchildren. Results indicate that (1) emotional closeness with both children and children-in-law is positively related to reports of emotional closeness with grandchildren; (2) maternal grandmothers invest more in grandchildren than do other grandparents; and (3) grandparents invest more in daughters’ children than in sons’ children. Discussion addresses limitations of self-report methodology in this context and situates the current findings within the body of research indicating the existence of psychological mechanisms designed to guide differential nepotism.
Antipsychotic drugs are associated with pulseless electrical activity: The Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death Study

Background There has been a paradigm shift in the manifestation of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), with steadily decreasing rates of ventricular fibrillation/tachycardia (VF/VT) and a significant increase in the proportion of pulseless electrical activity (PEA) and asystole. Objective Since PEA is marked by failure of myocardial contractility, we evaluated the potential role of drugs that affect cardiac contractility in the pathophysiology of human PEA. Methods Subjects with out-of-hospital SCA (aged≥18 years) who underwent attempted resuscitation were evaluated in the ongoing Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death Study (2002–2009). Specific classes of medications with either negative or positive cardiac inotropic effects were evaluated for association with occurrence of PEA vs VF/VT by using Pearson χ 2 tests and logistic regression. Results PEA cases (n = 309) were older than VF/VT cases (n = 509; 68±14 years vs 64±15 years; P P P Conclusions When drugs modifying myocardial contractility were evaluated in a comprehensive analysis of patients who suffered SCA, use of antipsychotic agents was a significant and independent predictor of manifestation with PEA.
Quantum frequency translation: efficient single-photon counting at 1.55 /spl mu/m

We have achieved continuous-wave operation of efficient single-photon detection at 1.55 mum by sum-frequency mixing with a strong pump at 1064 nm in bulk periodically-poled lithium niobate followed by photon counting in the visible
Lessons from a Federal Grant for School Diversity: Tracing a Theory of Change and Implementation of Local Policies

In 2009, the U.S. Department of Education made grants to eleven school districts under the Technical Assistance for Student Assignment Plans (TASAP) program. The impetus for the program came from the Council of Great City Schools, which was concerned that school districts would respond to a recent Supreme Court decision by dismantling policies with integrative aims. We analyze the design of the TASAP program, its implementation by the USED, and how the grantee districts used the funds, and find that TASAP’s effects were mixed. Five districts represented examples of “successful” implementation, using the grant funds in ways that prioritized diversity. Six demonstrated “subverted” implementation, using funds in ways that met local needs but moved away from the diversity goal.
Diabetic myonecrosis of the thigh.

A46-yr-old man with a history of long-standing type 2 diabetes, hypertension, chronic atrial fibrillation, hemodialysis-requiring end-stage renal disease, and left below-the-knee amputation due to severe peripheral arterial disease presented with a 2-d history of atraumatic acute-onset and then progressively worsening right anteromedial thigh pain, which was constant, aching, and aggravated with motion. He was an ex-smoker and a social drinker, and he denied use of illicit drugs. Medications included sitagliptin, amlodipine, metoprolol, lisinopril, aspirin, simvastatin, erythropoietin, and warfarin. Physical examination was remarkable for weak distal pulses and severe tenderness, erythema, and edema of the affected thigh without paresthesia or focal weakness. He had a normocytic normochromic anemia without leukocytosis, serum creatinine of 12.4 mg/dl, normal alanine and aspartate aminotransferases, normal thyroid function, creatine kinase of 228 U/liter (normal range, 30– 200), and aldolase of 13.9 U/liter (normal range, 1.2–7.6). Blood cultures and tests for autoimmune myositis were negative. Magnetic resonance imaging showed extensive edema through the entire extent of vastus medialis (Fig. 1, A and B). A muscle biopsy was performed, which showed muscle fibers undergoing active necrosis with extensive perivascular and endomysial lymphohistiocytic infiltrate, consistent with a diagnosis of diabetic myonecrosis (Fig. 1, C and D). The patient was discharged on analgesics. Diabetic myonecrosis is a rare complication of diabetes with advanced microvasculopathy and presents most commonly with acute pain and swelling of the thigh (1). Other reported risk factors are antiphospholipid antibodies (2) and cirrhosis (3). Differential diagnosis includes pyomyositis, primary muscle lymphoma/sarcoma, necrotizing fasciitis, soft tissue abscesses, deep vein thrombosis, dermatomyositis, focal/proliferative/nodular myositis, and cellulitis (1). Pathogenesis involves muscle infarction due to arteriosclerosis or diabetic microangiopathy (4). Diabetic myonecrosis predicts a poor prognosis.
Renewable gasoline from aqueous phase hydrodeoxygenation of aqueous sugar solutions prepared by hydrolysis of maple wood

In this paper we demonstrate an integrated process for the production of high octane gasoline from maple wood by hydrolysis of maple wood into aqueous carbohydrate solutions followed by aqueous phase hydrodeoxygenation of the sugar solutions. The aqueous carbohydrate solutions were prepared by both hydrolysis in hot water and hydrolysis with dilute acids (H2SO4, oxalic acid). The aqueous carbohydrate solutions were a mixture of xylose, water soluble hemicellulose oligomers, acetic acid, glucose, glucose oligomers, and probably some lignin polymers. Hydrolysis with hot water produced primarily hemicellulose oligomers whereas hydrolysis with acids produced mainly xylose and acetic acid. The hydrolysis co-product was a solid enriched in cellulose and lignin. The aqueous streams were hydrodeoxygenated by a two step catalytic process in which the first catalyst bed contained a Ru/C catalyst at 393 K and the second catalyst bed contained a Pt/zirconium phosphate (Pt/ZrP) catalyst at 518 K. The Ru/C catalyst was able to selectively hydrogenate xylose into xylitol but could not selectively hydrogenate the xylose oligomers. The two stage process was able to convert the aqueous carbohydrate streams derived from maple wood into gasoline range products with carbon yields of up to 57% and an estimated octane number of 96.5. No significant catalyst deactivation was observed indicating that the catalysts are very stable. The highest gasoline yield from this two stage process was obtained from the stream produced by acid hydrolysis of maple wood with 0.5 wt% oxalic acid at 433 K for 0.5 h. These results suggest that aqueous phase processing of sugars obtained by hydrolysis is a promising option for the production of fuels and chemicals from lignocellulosic biomass.
SEVEN CRITERION-RELATED VALIDITY STUDIES CONDUCTED WITH THE NATIONAL POLICE OFFICER SELECTION TEST '

This is a summary of seven criterion-related validation studies conducted in the United States with The National Police Officer Selection Test (POST), a content-valid, entry-level, basic skills examination used by law enforcement agencies for preemployment screening. Correlations between POST scores and various training and work performance criteria are presented. The results provide additional evidence for the criterion-related validity of the POST as a preemployment selection instrument for law enforcement candidates.