cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Anthropometric Risk Factors for Colorectal Polyps in African‐American Women

Objective: Colorectal adenomas are thought to be precursor lesions to colorectal cancer, a leading cause of cancer incidence and mortality in African-American women. Studies suggest that obesity is associated with risk of adenomas in white women, but little is known about the relation in African-American women. We prospectively examined the association between selected anthropometric factors and colorectal polyps in African-American women. Methods and Procedures: Data were obtained from the Black Women's Health Study (BWHS), a prospective cohort study of African-American women. From 1997 to 2003, we followed 33,403 women aged ≥30 years with no prior diagnosis of cancer or polyps. Cox regression was used to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for risk of polyps, with adjustment for potential confounders. Results: After 211,797 person-years of follow-up, 1,189 cases of colorectal polyps were reported. The IRR comparing women with a current BMI ≥35 to <25 kg/m2 was 1.35 (95% CI = 1.12–1.62), after adjustment for covariates including waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). Women who gained ≥30 kg since age 18 were 1.76 times as likely as those who gained <5 kg to report polyps (95% CI = 1.33–2.33). The IRR comparing the highest (≥0.87) to lowest (<0.71) quintiles of WHR was 1.26 (95% CI = 1.04–1.54), after adjustment for covariates including BMI. BMI at age 18, adult height, and waist circumference (BMI-adjusted) were not materially associated with risk. Results were similar among women with a recent endoscopy. Discussion: Weight gain and obesity in adulthood may increase the risk of colorectal polyps in African-American women.
Mail and telephone shopping as a function of consumer self-confidence

Since Raymond Bauer set forth the concept of perceived risk, a relatively small body of research has emerged examining the relationship between this type of perception and various forms of in-home shopping behavior. Cox and Rich (1964) noted the frequency with which various products were ordered by telephone and they examined this order frequency relative to the amount of risk perceived by all respondents, if they were t3 order these products by telephone. Spence et al (1970) tested three hypotheses in an attempt to determine whether m o r e risk is perceived by the consumer in buying by mail than in buying in a retail store or from a salesman. In a more recent study, Reynolds (1974) examined"degree of risk" as one of three factors affecting catalog buying behavior. The premise which can be gleaned from these findings is that consumers perceive both mail and telephone shopping as being more risky than the more conventional in-store type. As in Reynolds' research, this study examined in-home shopping behavior relative to consumer self-confidence, the reciprocal of perceived risk. Measurements of both general and specific self-confidence are included.
Effect of Body Flexibility on Impacts Studied on Rods and Beams

The effect of body flexibility on the impact process is studied through longitudinal impacts on rods and transverse impacts on beams. An experimental setup is presented using Laser-Doppler-Vibrometers in order to measure the displacement and velocity of the colliding bodies during impact. For the numerical investigation, modally-reduced models are used in combination with local Finite Element contact models. Performed on a microscale, these experimental and numerical investigations yield a good understanding of the effect of flexibility influencing the impact, and therefore, the coefficient of restitution. The investigations show that impacts of steel spheres on rods and beams yield strong structural vibrations. In the case of the rod impacts, the coefficient of restitution decreases monotonically with increasing initial velocity. In the case of the beams, the strong bending vibrations which are initiated, cause multiple successive impacts within a very short time period. This results in highly nonlinear behavior and uncertainty for the coefficient of restitution.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Design, development, and assembly of sub-orbital space flight structural health monitoring experiment

The paper presents a discussion of the design, development, and assembly of Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) experiments launched in space on a sub-orbital flight. Onboard experiments were focused on investigating the utility of piezoelectric wafer active sensors (PWAS) as active elements of spacecraft SHM systems and the electro-mechanical impedance method as a promising SHM methodology for space systems. A Magneto-elastic active sensor (MEAS) was used to record in-flight dynamics of the payload. The list of PWAS experiments included a bolted-joint experiment, an adhesive endurance experiment, and an experiment to monitor PWAS condition during spaceflight. Electromechanical impedances of piezoelectric sensors were recorded in-flight at varying input frequencies using onboard microcontroller units. PWAS and MEAS data were recovered from the payload after landing. Details of the sub-orbital flight experiments are considered and conclusions pertaining to flight results are presented. The paper discusses issues encountered during design, development, and assembly of the payload and aspects central to successful demonstration of the SHM during sub-orbital space flight.
Determination of selenium in urine by isotope dilution gas chromatography-mass spectrometry using 4-nitro-o-phenylenediamine, 3,5-dibromo-o-phenylenediamine, and 4-trifluoromethyl-o-phenylenediamine as derivatizing reagents

Abstract An isotope dilution gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method for selenium determination in urine using 76 Se as an internal standard is described. Three different derivatizing reagents, 4-nitro- o -phenylenediamine (NPD), 3,5-dibromo- o -phenylenediamine (DBPD), and 4-trifluoromethyl- o -phenylenediamine (TFMPD) were investigated for their gas chromatographic behavior including memory and precision and accuracy of isotope ratio measurements. By these criteria, the performance of these reagents was TFMPD > DBPD > NPD. Overall precision values of 1 to 7% were observed in determining Se isotope ratios at the 10-ng level, with no significant difference in using any of the three reagents. Memory effect was observed in the order NPD > DBPD > TFMPD with TFMPD showing no measurable memory effect. Accuracy of the GC-MS method was verified by quantitation of selenium in the NIST freeze-dried urine reference material SRM 2670.
Depression of the synthesis of the intermediate and large forms of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase in Rhodopseudomonas capsulata

Rhodopseudomonas capsulata produces both an intermediate (I) and a large (L) form of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase. Both forms are derepressed under CO2-limiting conditions. The L-form of the enzyme is completely repressed when the culture is grown either photoautotrophically or photoheterotrophically with malate as the electron donor. The L-form is derepressed in the late logarithmic phase of growth when cells are grown photoheterotrophically with butyrate as the electron donor and the NaHCO3 supplement is 0.01%. The level of the I-form is increased about fivefold under latter growth conditions when compared to malate-grown cells. Analytical ultracentrifugation revealed the molecular masses of the I-and L-forms to be 300,000 and 542,000, respectively. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed the I-form to be composed of only one type subunit with a molecular weight of 64,000. The L-form possessed both large and small subunits with molecular weights of 58,000 and 10,000.
Real-time RGB-D camera relocalization

We introduce an efficient camera relocalization approach which can be easily integrated into real-time 3D reconstruction methods, such as KinectFusion. Our approach makes use of compact encoding of whole image frames which enables both online harvesting of keyframes in tracking mode, and fast retrieval of pose proposals when tracking is lost. The encoding scheme is based on randomized ferns and simple binary feature tests. Each fern generates a small block code, and the concatenation of codes yields a compact representation of each camera frame. Based on those representations we introduce an efficient frame dissimilarity measure which is defined via the block-wise hamming distance (BlockHD). We illustrate how BlockHDs between a query frame and a large set of keyframes can be simultaneously evaluated by traversing the nodes of the ferns and counting image co-occurrences in corresponding code tables. In tracking mode, this mechanism allows us to consider every frame/pose pair as a potential keyframe. A new keyframe is added only if it is sufficiently dissimilar from all previously stored keyframes. For tracking recovery, camera poses are retrieved that correspond to the keyframes with smallest BlockHDs. The pose proposals are then used to reinitialize the tracking algorithm. Harvesting of keyframes and pose retrieval are computationally efficient with only small impact on the run-time performance of the 3D reconstruction. Integrating our relocalization method into KinectFusion allows seamless continuation of mapping even when tracking is frequently lost. Additionally, we demonstrate how marker-free augmented reality, in particular, can benefit from this integration by enabling a smoother and continuous AR experience.
Increased adenosine in cerebrospinal fluid after severe traumatic brain injury in infants and children: Association with severity of injury and excitotoxicity

Objectives To measure adenosine concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid of infants and children after severe traumatic brain injury and to evaluate the contribution of patient age, Glasgow Coma Scale score, mechanism of injury, Glasgow Outcome Score, and time after injury to cerebrospinal fluid ade
Waiting for Landauer

Abstract Landauer's Principle asserts that there is an unavoidable cost in thermodynamic entropy creation when data is erased. It is usually derived from incorrect assumptions, most notably, that erasure must compress the phase space of a memory device or that thermodynamic entropy arises from the probabilistic uncertainty of random data. Recent work seeks to prove Landauer's Principle without using these assumptions. I show that the processes assumed in the proof, and in the thermodynamics of computation more generally, can be combined to produce devices that both violate the second law and erase data without entropy cost, indicating an inconsistency in the theoretical system. Worse, the standard repertoire of processes selectively neglects thermal fluctuations. Concrete proposals for how we might measure dissipationlessly and expand single molecule gases reversibly are shown to be fatally disrupted by fluctuations. Reversible, isothermal processes on molecular scales are shown to be disrupted by fluctuations that can only be overcome by introducing entropy creating, dissipative processes.
Fuel Processing for Portable Power Applications

Abstract The present work focuses on fuel processing at a very short contact time (GHSV=36,000–144,000 h−1) and a relatively lower temperature (
On the sources of ultraviolet absorption in spectra of Titan and the outer planets

In response to observations of the ultraviolet deficiencies shown by all of the outer planets and Titan, models have been proposed to explain the low albedos in terms of absorption by particles in the upper atmospheres of these objects. These particles are generally believed to be photochemically formed from gases in the upper atmospheres, primarily methane and hydrogen. Such processes may also be operative on Titan. Results of some laboratory experiments on proton irradiation of mixtures of gases including CH4, H2, and NH3 have shown that liquid and solid materials are produced that are strong ultraviolet absorbers. However, the material produced from the CH4 + H2 mixture was colorless, indicating that species containing elements other than carbon and hydrogen are necessary for the production of color. Two such elements are nitrogen (as NH3 or N2) and sulfur (as H2S); colored materials have been produced from such mixtures. None of these materials has spectral properties identical to those shown by the planets. Therefore it is necessary that mixtures (and/or cloud layers) of the photochemical materials be present.
Infection in ventricular assist devices: prevention and treatment

Infection is one of the most important challenges to the use of implanted mechanical circulatory support systems (MCSS), particularly as we enter the era of permanent device use in patients who are not candidates for cardiac transplantation. This paper describes the pathogenesis of MCSS infection, with particular attention to the role of biofilm-forming bacteria. Suggestions are presented for the prevention and treatment of infections in implanted MCSS.
Disciplining Nature: The Homogenising and Constraining Forces of Anti-Markets on the Food System

To understand the changing patterns within agriculture, it is important to look not only at social relations and organisational configurations. Also salient to such an analysis is an examination of how those formations give shape to nonhumans. Much attention has been placed recently on the political economy of agriculture when speaking of these emergent patterns. Yet in doing this, the natural environment is all too often relegated to the backdrop; where the agroeconomy is viewed as something that manoeuvres within the environment but never through it. The conceptual groundwork for this paper draws from two often unconnected scholars: Michel Foucault and Fernand Braudel. In Foucault, we find a framework, with a little conceptual development, through which to talk about how the economy (of both discipline and capital) enters into nature. Specifically, the argument is made that through the embodiment of discipline, nature too becomes disciplined. Yet in Foucault we find a discursive conception of socio-economic history; where capitalism is discussed, but always as an effect of the discursive structures of power/knowledge. Enter the work of Braudel, to provide us with a materialist counterweight to Foucaultʼs theorising. In Braudel, we find a detailed analysis on the emergence of capitalism, out of which then comes his distinction between markets and anti-markets. In short, when both accounts of history are overlaid, interesting connections between the emergence of Braudelian anti-markets and Foucaultian discipline are revealed. Two brief case studies are then examined to add further depth to the discussion: the first focusing on corn; the second centring on the cow. The paper then concludes speaking on the issue of resistance.
LAW SCHOOLS AND FAMILY COURT REFORM

Family courts are underfunded and overwhelmed, and the quality of representation provided by counsel in family court cases is problematic. This article discusses what role law schools can play in promoting family court reform. It argues that law school involvement in family court is consistent with the law school’s core missions of education, research, and public service. The article illustrates how law schools can he involved in family court reform by discussing interdisciplinary projects of the Center for Children, Families and the Law of Hofstra University and North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health Systems. Finally, the article identifies some lessons to be learned if law schools want to he involved in family court reform.
Computer-mediated scholarly discussion groups

Abstract Electronic discussion groups are playing an increasingly important role within the information culture. Computer-mediated discussion groups often serve as powerful tools in the retrieval and exchange of information, bringing together persons with similar interests regardless of geographic distance or the time constraints dictated by face-to-face meetings. This is true for activities in the classroom and for faculty and students out of the classroom. This article focuses on online discussion groups used by scholars and apprentice-scholars to participate primarily in some type of scholarly or academic discussion, as opposed to groups whose focus is primarily recreational or for the dissemination or discussion of technical information. Further, computer-mediated scholarly discussion groups (SDG) are positioned within the general context of scholarly communication. The significant functions, purposes, advantages, and limitations of SDGs are described. Also discussed is how this form of computer-mediated communication differs from other communication media, especially within the educational setting.
Structure of the San Andreas Fault at SAFOD from P-wave tomography and fault-guided wave mapping

[1] Fault-guided waves reveal a low-velocity fault segment a few hundred meters southwest of the main strand of the San Andreas Fault (SAF) system. In 2004, the San Andreas Fault Observatory at Depth (SAFOD) Main Hole was drilled 2.5 km underground and 0.7 km west of the SAF surface trace. A 3-component, 4.5-Hz seismograph was installed near the bottom of this hole. This instrument recorded fault zone guided (Fg) waves originating from earthquakes along the main SAF ∼2 km north and 3 km south of the SAFOD site. This ∼5 km length corresponds to a distinctive low-velocity structure imaged in 2003 using microearthquakes recorded on the Pilot Hole array. Because this structure transmits Fg-waves from the main fault, it is probably connected to the main SAF and is most likely a major, unmapped fault.
Molecular mimicry in channel-protein structure

Abstract The approach to probing the sequence—structure relationship of ion-channel proteins using small peptides stems from the abundance of sequence information and the virtual absence of structures at atomic resolution. It is anticipated that model peptides may fold predictably into stable structures and reproduce functional properties of specific proteins. Model peptides are well suited to the application of NMR methods to determine protein structure in a membrane environment or to high-resolution X-ray diffraction analysis. It is timely to ask what we have learned through this strategy and where it may lead in our quest to understand the sequence—structure determinism.
Compliance with recommendations of the urodynamic society for standards of efficacy for evaluation of treatment outcomes in urinary incontinence.

The Urodynamic Society (US) published (1997) minimal standards to assess the efficacy of therapy for urinary incontinence (UI). The standards were developed by a US committee and were approved by the American Urological Society. The objective of our study was to evaluate compliance with these standards in recent UI research studies. A MEDLINE search was conducted for all articles in which outcomes of treatment for UI were reported (November, 1997-October, 1999). Reported data were compared with the recommended minimum standards including pre- and posttreatment data. Compliance rates for each data field were calculated by percentages for (1) the individual article and (2) overall compliance rate among all articles. A total of 39 articles that reported treatment for UI were selected. The treatments included various surgical procedures, injectables, pharmacologic treatments, and mechanical valves. Overall compliance for each article varied between 0% and 100%. Only one article met all 100% of the recommendations and one met none. The overall mean compliance rate for each article was 29%. We conclude that there is far less than optimal reporting of outcomes for treatment of UI per the recommendations of the Urodynamic Society. This low compliance makes standardized evaluation of treatment outcomes of UI difficult if not impossible. We suggest that initiation of funded cooperative clinical trials may improve the standardization in UI.
Purification and Mutagenesis of LpxL, the Lauroyltransferase of Escherichia coli Lipid A Biosynthesis

Escherichia coli lipid A is a hexaacylated disaccharide of glucosamine with secondary laurate and myristate chains on the distal unit. Hexaacylated lipid A is a potent agonist of human Toll-like receptor 4, whereas its tetra- and pentaacylated precursors are antagonists. The inner membrane enzyme LpxL transfers laurate from lauroyl-acyl carrier protein to the 2′-R-3-hydroxymyristate moiety of the tetraacylated lipid A precursor Kdo2-lipid IVA. LpxL has now been overexpressed, solubilized with n-dodecyl β-d-maltopyranoside (DDM), and purified to homogeneity. LpxL migration on a gel filtration column is consistent with a molecular mass of 80 kDa, suggestive of an LpxL monomer (36 kDa) embedded in a DDM micelle. Mass spectrometry showed that deformylated LpxL was the predominant species, noncovalently bound to as many as 12 DDM molecules. Purified LpxL catalyzed not only the formation in vitro of Kdo2-(lauroyl)-lipid IVA but also a slow second acylation, generating Kdo2-(dilauroyl)-lipid IVA. Consistent with...
Environmental effects on the human immune system and the risk of cancer: Facts and fears in the era of AIDS

(1991). Environmental effects on the human immune system and the risk of cancer: Facts and fears in the era of AIDS. Journal of Environmental Science and Health, Part C: Vol. 9, No. 2, pp. 155-206.
Terrain-Aided Navigation Test Results in the AFTI/F-16 Aircraft

Sandia National Laboratories has developed a low-level attack aircraft terrain-aided navigation algorithm for the Air Force Wright Aeronautical Laboratories, Avionics Laboratory. This algorithm is based on the Sandia Inertial Terrain-Aided Navigation (SITAN) approach to terrain-aided navigation that was initially formulated at Sandia in the mid-1970s. Extended Kalman filter theory is used to provide essentially continuous terrain-aided navigation through estimation of inertial navigation system errors from radar altimeter ground clearance measurements and on-board digital terrain elevation data (DTED). The SITAN algorithm is integrated into the Advanced Fighter Technology Integration (AFTI)/ F-16 aircraft, and called AFTI/SITAN to distinguish it from other SITAN designs. AFTI/SITAN performance, as determined by Air Force tracking radar during real-time testing in the AFTI/F-16 aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base from September 1986 through April 1987, is presented. Required performance is less than 100 m median horizontal radial error over 200 nmi trajectories that are flown over gently rolling terrain with available DTED. The flight data support the conclusions that AFTI/SITAN reliably determines aircraft position within an initial 0.5 nmi, CEP horizontal position error, and tracks aircraft horizontal position with an accuracy of 75 m median radial error using DTED supplied by the Defense Mapping Agency. Although accurate estimation of absolute altitude is not required for proper SITAN operation, altitude is estimated with less than 17 m root-mean-square error.
Reducing Firearm-Related Violence on College Campuses—Police Chiefs' Perceptions and Practices

Abstract Context: Firearms are used in the majority of college aged suicides and homicides. With recent efforts by various gun lobbying groups to have firearms more accessible to college students on campuses, there is the potential for more firearm-related morbidity and mortality. Objective: This study assessed university police chiefs’ perceptions and practices concerning selected issues of firearm violence and its reduction on college campuses. Participants: The Directory of the International Association for College Law Enforcement Administrators was used to identify a national random sample of campus police chiefs (n = 600). The respondents were predominantly males (89%), 40 to 59 years of age (71%), Caucasian (85%), and worked for 21or more years in law enforcement (75%). Methods: In the fall of 2008, a 2-wave mailing procedure was used to ensure an adequate response rate to a valid and reliable questionnaire. Results: A total of 417 (70%) questionnaires were returned. A firearm incident had occurred ...
JAOCS News Feature biosynthesis of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids by maturingcarthamus tinctorius L. seeds

Recent advances in the biosynthesis of fatty acids by maturing safflower seeds are described. We now can define the systems responsible for (a) the conversion of CO2 to sucrose to acetyl CoA; (b) the condensation of acetyl CoA via the de novo acyl carrier protein pathway to the terminal product, palmityl acyl carrier protein; (c) the elongation of palmityl acyl carrier protein to stearyl acyl carrier protein by a specific malonyl acyl carrier proteinelongation system; (d) the desaturation of stearyl acyl carrier protein to oleic acid by a highly specific, soluble stearyl acyl carrier protein desaturase; (e) the further desaturation of oleyl CoA to linoleyl CoA; and (f) the transfer of acyl CoAs to glycerol-3-phosphate to the final product, a triacylglycerol and its coalescence to the typical high lipid containing mature seed, engorged with oil droplets. Future research should be directed to a fuller understanding of how the maturing seed triggers these complicated series of reactions, how all these enzymes are coordinated to allow a smooth flow of substrates for the formation of oil droplets, and, finally, how biochemical engineering can further improve oil crops in the ever growing demand for high yielding systems.
Attractive Interactions in Micelles and Microemulsions

We have used small-angle neutron scattering to study surfactant interactions in an inverted micellar and a related microemulsion system. The structure-factor fits imply an attractive interaction between micelles with a short-ranged potential due to the overlapping of the surfactant hydrocarbon tails. The linear increase in this interaction with size accounts for the critical transition observed in the microemulsion. This analysis is confirmed by Monte Carlo simulations.
Institutional mergers and access: The case of North-West University

Abstract This article examines how faculty and administrators of the newly merged institution, North-West University, understand issues of access and seek to foster an environment that enhances their achievement, given considerable reservations that are often associated with any organisational change process. In light of the reality that the merger between the two institutions – one historically white (advantaged), the pre-merger Potchefstroom University, and the other the historically black (disadvantaged), the pre-merger University of North West – is an involuntary arrangement ordered by the Minister of Education, how would the faculty and administrators of the newly merged organisation manage their competing, and in some cases conflicting, objectives to create a new institution whose mission aligns with national equity objectives? The perspectives illuminated by the participants in this study highlight the persistent tension between the historical values of these institutions and the national vision to...
The management of malfunctioning prosthetic arteriovenous accesses by interventional nephrologists and surgeons: a retrospective comparison of long-term outcomes.

PURPOSE To compare the outcomes of arteriovenous grafts (AVG) managed by interventional nephrologists (IN) to those managed by vascular surgeons (VS). METHODS Between January 2004 and February 2005, 106 forearm loop AVG were placed. Ten AVG did not meet inclusion criteria and thus were excluded from study. Forty-seven AVG were managed by IN using percutaneous interventional techniques. Vascular surgeons, using surgical techniques, cared for 49 AVG. High-risk AVG in the IN group were surveyed with fistulagrams, whereas AVG in the VS group were not. Outcomes of the IN and VS groups were retrospectively compared. RESULTS The secondary patency rates at 6 and 18 months were 84% and 69% in the IN group and 79% and 68% in the VS group, respectively (P=.38). Twenty-five (53%) AVG in the IN required at least one surgical procedure to achieve a patency equivalent to that of the VS group. The mean number of AVG interventions to final failure was 4.8 in the IN group and 3.0 in the VS group (P=.03). Infection requiring AVG removal occurred in six patients in the IN group and one patient in the VS group (P=.07). CONCLUSIONS Surveillance fistulagrams and percutaneous intervention for malfunctioning AVG by IN do not provide superior patency and may require more interventions over the "life" of the graft when compared to no surveillance and surgical intervention by VS. In order to achieve optimal vascular access outcomes, a collaborative relationship between nephrologist and surgeon is essential so as to ensure that the most appropriate intervention is selected and futile interventions are avoided.
Chandra Observation of Diffuse Gas and Low-Mass X-Ray Binaries in the Elliptical Galaxy NGC 4649 (M60)

We present an XMM-Newton X-ray observation of the X-ray-bright E2 elliptical galaxy NGC 4649. In addition to bright diffuse emission, we resolve 158 discrete sources, ~50 of which are likely to be LMXBs associated with NGC 4649. We find evidence for variability in three sources between this observation and a previous Chandra observation. Additionally, we detect five sources that were not detected with Chandra despite its better detection limit, suggesting that these sources have since brightened. The total X-ray spectrum of the resolved sources is well fit by a hard power law, while the diffuse spectrum requires a hard and a soft component, presumably due to the relatively soft diffuse gas and the harder unresolved sources. A deprojection of the diffuse emission revealed a radial temperature gradient that is hot in the center, drops to a minimum at about 20''-50'' (1.6-4.1 kpc), and rises again in the outer regions. The diffuse emission appears to require a two-temperature model with heavy-element abundance ratios that differ from the solar values. We have verified the existence of faint radial features extending out from the core of NGC 4649 that had previously been seen with Chandra. The fingers are morphologically similar to radial features seen in hydrodynamic simulations of cooling flows in elliptical galaxies, and although their other properties do not match the predictions of the particular simulations used, we conclude that the radial fingers might be due to convective motions of hot outflowing gas and cooler inflowing gas. We also find evidence for a longer, previously undetected filament that extends to the northeastern edge of NGC 4649. The diffuse gas in the region of the filament appears to have a lower temperature and may also have a higher abundance as compared to nearby regions. There also appears to be an excess of X-ray sources along the filament, although the excess is not statistically significant. We conclude that the filament may be the result of a tidal interaction, possibly with NGC 4647, although more work is necessary to verify this conclusion.
The variation of carbon-carbon bond lengths with environment as determined by spectroscopic studies of simple polyatomic molecules

Abstract A brief and critical review of the spectroscopic method of determining molecular structures is given. The difficulties and present experimental accuracies of the method are discussed and comparisons with available diffraction values are made. Spectroscopic data on carbon-carbon bond lengths (accurate to 0·005 A) which have been accumulated in recent years are summarized. These show a simple dependence on bond environment, namely, that bond lengths increase linearly with an increase in the number of adjacent bonds.
A framework for using benefit functions in complex real time systems

Researchers are currently investigating applying benefit, or utility functions for allocating resources in limited, soft real time systems [1,2,3]. While the future of real-time computing research and practice will likely exploit the utility of benefit-based models, this will not occur until a suitable system level benefit framework has been defined. This paper provides an overview of ongoing work to develop such an initial framework that can formalize the use of benefit functions in complex real time systems. It is easily shown that this framework can support traditional hard/firm/soft real-time paradigms as well as support newer proposed models for future real time operation [5,6]. We also show that our proposed framework unifies composition of benefit values derived from heterogeneous perspectives, including those derived from the application perspective.
TRIM E3 Ligases Interfere with Early and Late Stages of the Retroviral Life Cycle

Members of the TRIpartite interaction Motif (TRIM) family of E3 ligases have been shown to exhibit antiviral activities. Here we report a near comprehensive screen for antiretroviral activities of 55 TRIM proteins (36 human, 19 mouse). We identified ∼20 TRIM proteins that, when transiently expressed in HEK293 cells, affect the entry or release of human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV), murine leukemia virus (MLV), or avian leukosis virus (ALV). While TRIM11 and 31 inhibited HIV entry, TRIM11 enhanced N-MLV entry by interfering with Ref1 restriction. Strikingly, many TRIM proteins affected late stages of the viral life cycle. Gene silencing of endogenously expressed TRIM 25, 31, and 62 inhibited viral release indicating that they play an important role at late stages of the viral life cycle. In contrast, downregulation of TRIM11 and 15 enhanced virus release suggesting that these proteins contribute to the endogenous restriction of retroviruses in cells.
Lymphocyte GRK levels as biomarkers in heart failure.

This editorial refers to ‘Elevated myocardial and lymphocyte GRK2 expression and activity in human heart failure’† by G. Iaccarino et al ., on page 1752 Seven transmembrane (7-TM) receptors, also termed G-protein coupled receptors, represent one of the largest signalling families in the human genome. The β1- and β2-adrenergic receptors (β1- and β2ARs) are prototypic of many members of this family. In the classic paradigm, when occupied by agonist, both βAR subtypes couple to the stimulatory G-protein Gs, whose α subunit activates adenylyl cyclase, increasing intracellular cAMP and activating protein kinase A (PKA), which phosphorylates multiple proteins in the heart leading to enhanced inotropy and chronotropy. This scenario, however, is not a simple, series-type switch. Instead, it can be viewed as a network consisting of switches, potentiometers, amplifiers, and attenuators in series and in parallel. Indeed, we now know that adrenergic receptors can couple to multiple G-proteins and can even signal by direct interaction of their cytoplasmic tails with effectors without the need for G-proteins as transducers.1 Such complexity (and plasticity) in signalling is necessary for the cell to integrate the large number of signals presented to it, so as to respond appropriately to both physiologic and pathologic conditions. Of particular relevance to this network and the subject of a report by Iaccarino et al. 2 are G-protein coupled receptor kinases (GRKs). These kinases are known by several names: GRK2 (βARK or βARK1), GRK3 (βARK2), GRK4 (IT11), GRK5, GRK6, and the two phototransduction kinases GRK1 (rhodopsin kinase) and GRK7 (cone opsin kinase). The initial function of … *Corresponding author. Tel: +1 513 558 0484; fax: +1 513 558 0835. E-mail address : stephen.liggett{at}uc.edu
Fluoroscopically guided percutaneous gastrostomy and gastroenterostomy: analysis of 158 consecutive cases.

We reviewed our experience with 158 consecutive patients who underwent either percutaneous gastrostomy or percutaneous gastroenterostomy during a 2-year period. The catheters used included Foley catheters (36), Cope-type gastric catheters (86), or Carey-Alzate-Coons gastrojejunostomy catheters (36). Gastrojejunostomy tubes were placed in patients with gastroesophageal reflux or aspiration, gastric atony, or partial gastric obstruction. Ninety percent of the tubes were placed for feeding purposes. The technical success rate was 100%. Thirty-day follow-up was obtained in 89%. Thirty-day mortality was 26%, reflecting the substantial number of debilitated patients. No deaths were directly related to tube placement. Major morbidity was 6% and included hemorrhage, peritonitis, tube migration, and sepsis. Minor morbidity was 12%. There was no difference in 30-day mortality or feeding tolerance between the tube types (p less than .05). Patients with Foley catheters had more complications necessitating surgical in...
Engineered fetal cartilage: Structural and functional analysis in vitro

Abstract Background/Purpose: This study was aimed at characterizing the structure and function of engineered fetal cartilage in vitro. Methods: Chondrocytes from ovine specimens of fetal elastic, fetal hyaline, and adult elastic cartilage were expanded in culture and their growth rates determined. Cells were seeded onto synthetic scaffolds, which were then maintained in a bioreactor. Matrix deposition was determined by specific staining and quantitative assays for glycosaminoglycans (GAG), type II collagen (CII), and elastin, as well as compared with native tissue. Statistical analysis was by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Students' t test, with significance set at P less than.01. Results: Fetal elastic chondrocytes grew significantly faster than all other cell types. All fetal constructs resembled hyaline cartilage, regardless of the cell source. There were significantly higher levels of GAG and CII in fetal versus adult constructs, but no significant difference between fetal constructs from different sources. Unlike their adult counterparts, fetal constructs had GAG and CII levels similar to native tissues. Conclusions: Fetal chondrocytes can be rapidly expanded in culture. Compared with adult constructs, matrix deposition is enhanced in engineered fetal cartilage, which closely resembles native tissue, regardless of the cell source. Engineered fetal cartilage may be a preferable option during surgical reconstruction of select congenital anomalies. J Pediatr Surg 37:1720-1725. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
A comparison of graphical techniques for decision analysis

Recently, we proposed a new method for representing and solving decision problems based on the framework of valuation-based systems. The new representation is called a valuation network, and the new solution method is called a fusion algorithm. In this paper, we compare valuation networks to decision trees and influence diagrams. We also compare the fusion algorithm to the backward recursion method of decision trees and to the arc-reversal method of influence diagrams. Recently, we proposed a new method for representing and solving decision problems based on the axiomatic framework of valuation-based systems (Shenoy 1993, 1992a). The new representation is called a valuation network, and the new solution method is called a fusion algorithm. In this paper, we compare valuation networks to decision trees and influence diagrams. We also compare the fusion algorithm to the backward recursion method of decision trees and the arc-reversal method of influence diagrams. A popular method for representing and solving decision problems is decision trees. Decision trees have their genesis in the pioneering work of von Neumann and Morgenstern (1944) on extensive form games. Decision trees graphically depict all possible scenarios. The decision tree representation allows computation of an optimal strategy by the backward recursion method of dynamic programming (Raiffa and Schlaifer 1961). Raiffa and Schlaifer (1961) call the dynamic
Client factors associated with treatment completion in a substance abuse treatment facility

This study examined a sample (n = 415) of patients initiating short-term substance abuse treatment to determine if demographic factors, personality factors, presenting affect, or presenting symptom severity could predict treatment completion. A logistic regression was conducted and results indicated that men, individuals scoring lower on a measure of neuroticism, and patients who reported higher levels of presenting agitation were all less likely to successfully complete the treatment program; 12% of the variance in completion was accounted for by these constructs. Presenting symptom severity, other indicators of the Big Five personality constructs, and additional negative affect indictors were not significant predictors of treatment completion. The implications for research and practice are discussed.
Synthesis, Structures and Characterization of the Calcium Pyrrolates [Ca{(2‐(dimethylaminomethyl)pyrrolyl}2 donorn] (donor = THF and pyridine, n = 2; DME and TMEDA, n = 1) as Potential Precursors for Solid‐State Applications

The synthesis and characterization of novel alkaline earth metal pyrrolyl derivatives is described. The target molecules were synthesized using transamination and metallation protocols, involving either the treatment of calcium bis[bis(trimethylsilyl)]amide with two equivalents of 2-(dimethylaminomethyl)pyrrole (2-DMAMP) or the reaction of elemental calcium with two equivalents of 2-DMAMP. Different donors, namely THF, pyridine (py), DME (dimethoxyethane), and TMEDA (N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine) were utilized to study their influence on the structural chemistry of the target compounds. In order to compare the influence of the metal coordination on the pyrrole ligand, we included the crystal structure of the free 2-DMAMP ligand. All new compounds were characterized using 1H, 13C NMR and IR spectroscopy in addition to X-ray crystallography. Crystal data with Mo-Kα radiation (λ = 0.71073 A) are as follows: 1: [Ca(2-DMAMP)2(THF)2], a = 15.440(2) A, b = 14.992(2) A, c = 10.175(1) A, β = 94.9(3)°,V= 2346.6(6) A3, Z = 4, monoclinic, space group P21/c, R1(all data) = 0.0981; 2: [Ca(2-DMAMP)2(py)2], a = 9.168(6) A, b = 10.418(7) A, c = 13.329(8) A, α = 85.9(1)°, β = 72.9(1)°, γ = 86.2(1)°, V = 1212.2(1) A3, Z = 2, triclinic, space group P , R1 (all data) = 0.0711; 3: [Ca(2-DMAMP)2(DME)], a = 10.814(1) A, b = 12.907(1) A, c = 15.170(1) A, V = 2117.3(3) A3, Z = 4, orthorhombic, space group P212121, R1 (all data) = 0.0729; 4: [Ca(2-DMAMP)2(TMEDA)], a = 9.403(6) A, b = 15.810(1) A, c = 15.417(1) A, V = 2292.0(3) A3, Z = 4, orthorhombic, space group Pbcn, R1 (all data) = 0.0997; 5: 2-DMAMP, a = 10.8820(7) A, b = 15.2186(10) A, c = 9.7578(6) A, β = 109.736(2)°,V = 1521.05(17) A3, Z = 2, monoclinic, space group Cc, R1 (all data) = 0.0382. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2003)
DLFM: a transactional resource manager

The DataLinks technology developed at IBM Almaden Research Center and now available in DB2 UDB 5.2 introduces a new data type called DATALINK for a database to reference and manage files stored external to the database. An external file is put under a database control by “linking” the file to the database. Control to a file can also be removed by “unlinking” it. The technology provides transactional semantics with respect to linking or unlinking the file when DATALINK value is stored or updated. Further more, it provides the following set of properties: (1) managing access control to linked files, (2) enforcing referential integrity, such as referenced file cannot be deleted or renamed as long as it is referenced from the RDBMS, and (3) providing coordinated backup and recovery of RDBMS data with the file data.DataLinks File Manager (DLFM) is a key component of the DataLinks technology. DLFM is a sophisticated SQL application with a set of daemon processes residing at a file server node that work cooperatively with the host database server(s) to manage external files. To reduce the number of messages between database server and DLFM, DLFM maintains a set of meta data on the file system and the files that are under database control. One of the major decisions we made was to build DLFM on top of an existing database manager, such as DB2, instead of implementing a proprietary persistent data store. We have mixed feelings about using the RDBMS to build such a resource manager. One of the major challenges is to support transactional semantics for DLFM operations. To do this, we implemented the two-phase commit protocol in DLFM and designed an innovative scheme to enable rolling back transaction update after local database commit. Also a major gotchas is that the RDBMS' cost based optimizer generates the access plan, which does not take into account the locking costs of a concurrent workload. Using the RDBMS as a black box can cause “havoc” in terms of causing the lock timeouts and deadlocks and reducing the throughput of a concurrent workload. To solve the problem, we came up with a simple but effective way of influencing the optimizer to generate access plans matching the needs of DLFM implementation. Also several precautions had to be taken to ensure that lock escalation did not take place; next key locking was disabled to avoid deadlocks on heavily used indexes and SQL tables; and timeout mechanism was applied to break global deadlocks.We were able to run 100-client workload for 24 hours without much deadlock/timeout problem in system test. This paper describes the motivation for building the DLFM and the lessons that we have learned from this experience.
Locus of Control in India: A Cross-Cultural Perspective

Abstract A study of 376 high school graduates representing equal numbers of male-female, age groups of 20–30 and 40–50 years and Hindu, non-Hindu Indians were examined on Rotter's I-E Scale. Contrary to earlier reports (Carment 1974) the group was not more internal than previously reported scores of other cultures. A 2 × 2 × 2 ANOVA revealed that sex and religion contributed significantly. Belief in the theory of Karma and socioeconomic status also contributed significantly. Similar analyses of three subscales of I-E, Personal Control, Control Ideology and Systems Control showed some reversals of results of total I-E.
A comparison of a milieu-based Behavioural Activation Communication with treatment as usual for acute psychiatric inpatients

Aim Patient emotion, behaviour, and symptoms may explain avoidance of the daily programming on an acute psychiatric inpatient treatment milieu. We compared changes of emotion, behaviour, and symptoms among acutely ill psychiatric inpatients assigned to Behavioural Activation Communication (BAC), a newly designed milieu program, and those assigned to a unit representing treatment as usual (TAU). Method Participants included 144 adult inpatients treated between January 2011 and July 2011 at two similar psychiatric units at a medical centre. Psychiatric patients were assigned to either the BAC or the TAU unit based bed availability. At admission and discharge, patients completed the Brief Symptom Inventory, Positive Affect and Negative Affect Scale, and the Checklist of Unit Behaviors. Results A comparison of BAC and TAU patients showed greater relative change on positive affect and of behavioural activation with the daily programming. Conclusion The BAC program is associated with a significant increase of positive emotion and activation of inpatients.