cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Identifying tumor-related risk factors for simultaneous adrenalectomy in patients with cT1 - cT2 kidney cancer during robotic assisted laparoscopic radical nephrectomy.

Background In some cases, preservation of adrenal gland could be at risk in patients with cT1 and cT2 RCC. The aim of this study was to evaluate tumor-related factors that can potentially increase the risk of simultaneous adrenalectomy during robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (RALRN) in patients with cT1-cT2 disease and the impact of performing such procedure on recurrence-free survival (RFS) and complication rates. Methods We used a multi-institutional kidney cancer database where we identified patients who underwent RALRN with or without adrenalectomy. We evaluated the tumor-related characteristics that could potentially increase the risk of adrenal gland resection of these patients. We also reported RFS at 12-24 months of follow-up, which was compared with an inverse probability of treatment weighted (IPTW) multivariable cox proportional hazards regression model and postoperative complications, which was compared with an IPTW multivariable logistic regression model. Results Tumor size, cT stage, pT stage, histologic subtype, sarcomatoid differentiation, BMI, lymph node involvement, metastatic disease, Fuhrman grade do not increase the risk of simultaneous adrenalectomy during RALRN. Moreover, RALRN with adrenalectomy had no significant benefit in RFS. No differences in post-operative complications were noted. Conclusions Our evaluated tumor-related characteristics did not show to impact the incidence of simultaneous adrenalectomy. Adrenal gland resection T does not provide significant benefit in recurrence-free survival. We consider that RALRN with adrenalectomy should be reserved only for patients with adrenal compromise as stated previously regardless that it has shown to be a safe procedure.
Training of Paraeducators for Physical Education for Children with Visual Impairments.

IntroductionChildren with visual impairments are often behind their peers in physical and motor skills. It is often necessary for these children to work one to one with a paraeducator to gain the b...
Automated Analysis of Medial Gastrocnemius Muscle-Tendon Junction Displacements During Isolated Contractions and Walking Using Deep Neural Networks

Abstract Direct measurement of muscle-tendon junction (MTJ) position is important for understanding dynamic tendon behavior and muscle-tendon interaction in healthy and pathological populations. Traditionally, obtaining MTJ position during functional activities is accomplished by manually tracking the position of the MTJ in cine B-mode ultrasound images – a laborious and time-consuming process. Recent advances in deep learning have facilitated the availability of user-friendly open-source software packages for automated tracking. However, these software packages were originally intended for animal pose estimation and have not been widely tested on ultrasound images. Therefore, the purpose of this paper was to evaluate the efficacy of deep neural networks to accurately track medial gastrocnemius MTJ positions in cine B-mode ultrasound images across tasks spanning controlled loading during isolated contractions to physiological loading during treadmill walking. Cine B-mode ultrasound images of the medial gastrocnemius MTJ were collected from 15 subjects (6M/9F, 23 yr, 71.9 kg, 1.8 m) during treadmill walking at 1.25 m/s and during maximal voluntary isometric plantarflexor contractions (MVICs). Five deep neural networks were trained using 480 labeled images collected during walking, and were then used to predict MTJ position in images from novel subjects 1) during walking (novel-subject), and 2) during MVICs (novel-condition). We found an average mean absolute error of 1.26±1.30 mm and 2.61±3.31 mm in the novel-subject and novel-condition evaluations, respectively. We believe this approach to MTJ position tracking is an accessible and time-saving solution, with broad applications for many fields, such as rehabilitation or clinical diagnostics.
Facile preparation of a novel Ga-67-labeled NODAGA-conjugated lactam-cyclized alpha-MSH peptide at room temperature for melanoma targeting.

Abstract In this study, the melanoma targeting property of 67Ga-NODAGA-GGNle-CycMSHhex {1,4,7-triazacyclononane,1-gluteric acid-4,7-acetic acid-GlyGlyNle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-CONH2} was determined on B16/F10 melanoma-bearing C57 mice to demonstrate the feasibility of NODAGA as a radiometal chelator for facile room temperature radiolabeling of NODAGA-GGNle-CycMSHhex. The IC50 value of NODAGA-GGNle-CycMSHhex was 0.87 ± 0.12 nM on B16/F10 melanoma cells. 67Ga-NODAGA-GGNle-CycMSHhex was readily prepared at room temperature with greater than 98% radiolabeling yield and displayed MC1R-specific binding on B16/F10 melanoma cells. The B16/F10 melanoma uptake of 67Ga-NODAGA-GGNle-CycMSHhex was 10.31 ± 0.78, 14.96 ± 1.34, 13.7 ± 3.33 and 10.4 ± 2.2% ID/g at 0.5, 2, 4 and 24 h post-injection, respectively. Approximately 85% of the injected dose was cleared out the body via urinary system at 2 h post-injection. 67Ga-NODAGA-GGNle-CycMSHhex showed high tumor/blood, tumor/muscle and tumor/skin uptake ratios after 2 h post-injection. Overall, 67Ga-NODAGA-GGNle-CycMSHhex could be easily prepared at room temperature and exhibited favorable melanoma targeting property, suggesting the potential use of NODAGA as a radiometal chelator for facile room temperature radiolabeling of α-MSH peptides.
A Dyadic Analysis of Grandparent and Adult Grandchildren Solidarity and Topic Avoidance

The grandparent-adult grandchild relationship is integral to the health and preservation of the family. The intergenerational relationship makes several transformations as each party ages and exper...
When the Bad is Good and the Good is Bad: Understanding Cyber Social Health Through Online Behavioral Change

In spite of significant progress in technologies to fight negative uses of social media, it has been challenging to detect, monitor, counter, and overcome the malevolent behaviors and use by illintentioned actors. The following topics are first discussed in brief: thick data modeling for understanding message content; flow of harmful information, trust, and provenance; the diffusion of new harmful content; contextualized big data analysis to combat malicious behaviors; and fairness and ethical considerations. We received 23 submissions for this special issue, which were reviewed by at least three reviewers. Nine articles were accepted based on the quality of the analysis, results, and presentation. In this issue, the following four articles will appear, while the remaining five articles will appear in the upcoming issue. The articles are briefly summarized here.
The relationship between active, balanced participation and well-being in older adults in the United States: A time-use perspective

The purpose of the study was to investigate the association between occupational balance and well-being in older adults. The sample was 2,142 older adults (aged 65 and older; mean age=73.4; 59.6% f...
Generation of higher harmonics and their application to material characterization

Predictive health monitoring will require the development of advanced sensing techniques capable of providing quantitative information on the damage state of structural materials. Second harmonic generation techniques can measure absolute, strength-based material parameters which can be coupled with uncertainty models to enable accurate and quantitative life prediction. Starting at the material level, this talk will examine a combination of sensing techniques and physics-based models to characterize damage in metals. These second harmonic techniques are acoustic-wave-based, so component interrogation can be performed with bulk, surface, and guided waves using the same underlying material physics. The talk will consider applications to characterize fatigue damage, thermal embrittlement, irradiation damage, and sensitization.
Drug Trafficking and Organized Crime in Mexico

This chapter examines drug trafficking and organized crime in Mexico. It begins with a history of drug trafficking and how it has evolved over time. It focuses on the 71-year rule by a single political party and the transition to democracy in 2000, which had an impact on the relationship between the state and organized crime. This chapter then examines Felipe Calderon’s war on drugs and the Merida Initiative, a U.S.-funded plan, to help the Mexican government combat drug trafficking and organized crime. It then examines recent trends in drug trafficking, organized crime, and counternarcotic policies, focusing on the Pena Nieto and Lopez Obrador governments. It examines opium production and the evolution of organized crime in the State of Guerrero. Finally, this chapter analyzes the impact of the Coronavirus on organized crime and the challenges combating corruption and impunity.
Observations and Considerations for Implementing Remote Acoustic Voice Recording and Analysis in Clinical Practice.

SUMMARY Objectives/Hypothesis Remote voice recording and acoustic analysis allow for comprehensive voice assessment and outcome tracking without the requirements of travel to the clinic, in-person visit, or expensive equipment. This paper delineates the process and considerations for implementing remote voice recording and acoustic analysis in a high-volume university voice clinic. Study Design Clinical Focus. Methods Acoustic voice recordings were attempted on 108 unique patients over a 6-month period using a remote voice recording phone application. Development of the clinical process including determining normative data in which to compare acoustic results, clinician training, and clinical application is described. The treating Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) were surveyed 2 months after implementation to assess ease of application, identify challenges and assess implementation of potential solutions. Results Of 108 unique patients, 83 patients were successful in completing the process of synchronous remote acoustic voice recording in conjunction with their SLP clinician. The process of downloading the application, setting up, and obtaining voice recordings was most commonly 10-20 minutes according to the 8 SLPs surveyed. Challenges and helpful techniques were identified. Conclusions Remote acoustic voice recordings have allowed SLPs to continue to complete a comprehensive voice evaluation in a telepractice model. Given emerging knowledge about the viability of remote voice recordings, the success in obtaining acoustic data remotely, and the accessibility of a low-cost app for SLPs makes remote voice recordings a viable option to facilitate remote clinical care and research investigation.
Admission Lymphocytopenia is Associated with Urinary Tract Infection and Nosocomial Infections in Hemorrhagic Stroke.

Abstract Objective Growing evidence suggests that lymphocytopenia on admission (LOA) is associated with infectious complications and poor outcomes in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Whether LOA preferentially increases the risk for community acquired infections or nosocomial infections is unknown. This study investigates the relationship between LOA and nosocomial infections in a cohort of patients with ICH in a safety-net hospital. Material and methods This is a single center, observational, retrospective study of 213 patients with non-traumatic ICH admitted to the neurocritical care unit between 2008 and 2014. Patients’ clinical, demographic, lab and radiologic data were retrieved from institutional electronic medical records. Nosocomial infection was defined as clinical onset 48 h after admission. Results Prevalence of LOA was 24.8%. Patients with LOA showed significant associations with mechanical ventilation (67.9% versus 49.4%; p= 0.019), higher median ICH score (2 versus 1; p=0.006), nosocomial infection (43.4% versus 28.0%; p=0.038), nosocomial UTI (24.5% versus 8.9%; p=0.003). Adjusting for baseline covariates in a multivariate logistic regression, we observed an association of LOA with nosocomial UTI (OR, 3.66 [95% CI, 1.36-9.88], p=0.010). From the Cox proportional model, patients with LOA had 1.76 times the hazard of developing of nosocomial infection, compared to those without LOA ([95% CI: 1.01, 3.07], p=0.046) and had 3.27 times the hazard of developing nosocomial UTI, compared to those without LOA ([95% CI: 1.39, 7.67], p=0.007). Conclusions This study is the first to show that LOA is associated with nosocomial urinary tract infections and significantly shorter times to develop nosocomial infections.
Syndemics and the history of disease: Towards a new engagement.

Abstract Historians of medicine and disease have yet to think through a syndemic lens. This commentary aims to point out why they should. Although there are several hurdles to overcome, our histories of disease and our understanding of current syndemics both stand to gain should historians begin to explore episodes of cooccurring diseases that share root causes.
An Endoscopic Concentric Ring Sector-Vortex Ultrasound Phased Array Applicator for Pancreatic Tumor Ablation

An endoscopic ultrasound phased array applicator is introduced, consisting of a phased array transducer enclosed in a distensible reflector balloon that is filled with water. The applicator can be collapsed for delivery and expanded close to the target position to enhance its therapeutic capabilities. Acoustic and biothermal simulations were performed for a 64-element cylindrical phased array transducer composed of 8 tubular transducers, each divided into 8 sectors, in water medium and 3D generalized tissue medium. The transducer-reflector design mimics the focal quality of a large diameter combined concentric-ring sector-vortex phased array. Simulation results indicated that transducer arrays (1.5 MHz, 9 mm OD x 20 mm length, 8 rings, 8 sectors), balloon sizes (42 – 50 mm expanded diameter, 20 – 60 mm focal depth), phasing mode (0 – 4) and sonication durations (120 s) can produce spatially-localized focal intensity patterns (Axial FWHM: 3 – 19 mm, Transverse FWHM: 2 – 8 mm) and ablative thermal lesions (width: 3.6 – 27 mm, length: 5 – 22.5 mm) in generalized pancreatic tissue across a 20 – 70 mm depth range. The results of this study demonstrated the feasibility of a novel ultrasound applicator design that can be collapsed for compact endoluminal or laparoscopic delivery and deployed close to the target to emulate a large concentric-ring sector-vortex phased array capable of focusing, deep penetration, electronic steering and volumetric thermal ablation.
Theorem proving modulo based on Boolean equational procedures

Deduction with inference rules modulo computation rules plays an important role in automated deduction as an effective method for scaling up. We present four equational theories that are isomorphic to the traditional Boolean theory and show that each of them gives rise to a Boolean decision procedure based on a canonical rewrite system modulo associativity and commutativity. Then, we present two modular extensions of our decision procedure for Dijkstra-Scholten propositional logic to the Sequent Calculus for First Order Logic and to the Syllogistic Logic with Complements of L. Moss. These extensions take the form of rewrite theories that are sound and complete for performing deduction modulo their equational parts and exhibit good mechanization properties. We illustrate the practical usefulness of this approach by a direct implementation of one of these theories in Maude rewriting logic language, and automatically proving a challenge benchmark in theorem proving.
Characteristic dynamic energy equations for Stirling cycle analysis

The gas in a Stirling cycle machine is subject to heating and cooling and to compression and expansion as it oscillates with the compression and expansion pistons. The effect on the gas is described by the conservation equations for mass, for density, and for momentum. An analytical expression for the gas velocity is derived. 12 refs.
Development of a relevant cell culture model to examine lutein absorption in vitro (645.12)

Lutein bioavailability is influenced by dietary fat which facilitates absorption via micelles. Permeable support systems are employed in in vitro nutrient absorption studies but data are absent on whether this approach generates results more relevant to in vivo absorption than a monolayer system (MONO). We used Caco-2 colorectal cells to compare the efficacy of lutein uptake in a MONO and a permeable support Transwell® system (TRAN) to examine the role of micelles. After plating for 2 and 21 d to attain confluence and differentiation in MONO and TRAN, respectively, cells were treated with 4 µg/mL lutein in 0.8% ethanol or synthetic micelles. After 36 h, lutein in cell lysate and basolateral medium was quantified by HPLC. Lutein in the cell lysate after ethanol was 220% greater than after micelle solubilization in MONO (3.0 vs. 1.4 µg/mg protein) but in the TRAN, lutein after ethanol was 77% lower (0.3 vs. 1.3). In TRAN, <1% (14.6 ng) of the micellized lutein was secreted to the basolateral medium while no...
Wear and Related Evaluations of Partially Stabilized ZrO2

Pin-on-disk (POD) tests show partially stabilized ZrO2 (PSZ) crystals to have about the same wear as fully stabilized ZrO2 crystals, until stabilizer contents are low enough (e.g., 4.5 wt pct Y2O3) so that some monoclinic ZrO2 is present. Then wear increases substantially, as stabilizer content is further reduced, and monoclinic content increases. Tests of PSZ-crystal cutting tools have not proved particularly successful, and rolling-contact fatigue tests of various PSZ materials showed them to be poor candidates for rolling-element bearings, with the latter results indicating a Petch-type dependence. Possible reasons for such limited or poor performance of PSZ, despite its good toughness, are discussed. Poor performance with concentrated loads is noted in particular, indicating limitations due to plastic flow. 9 references.
A College’s Role in Developing and Supporting an Entrepreneurship Ecosystem

From the earliest oil pioneers to today’s business startups, entrepreneurs have paved the road to success for Oklahoma. Small businesses account for more than 80% of the business community in each of the state’s two largest cities. Higher education must take a leadership role in developing and sustaining a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem for small business. Community colleges are uniquely designed to nourish an entrepreneurial ecosystem in light of their ability to quickly respond to business and community needs, design curriculum to meet industry demands, and generate meaningful advances in the community’s economic development. Budding entrepreneurs often look to the community college as the most flexible and accessible means to reach their goal of starting a new business. A college involved in cultivating and nurturing an entrepreneurial ecosystem must exhibit its own entrepreneurial spirit while creating an environment where discoveries are made, learning is emphasized, and lives are changed.
Gravitational Lensing Corrections in Flat LambdaCDM Cosmology

We compute the deflection angle to order (m/r_0)^2 and m/r_0*Lambda r_0^2 for a light ray traveling in a flat LambdaCDM cosmology which encounters a completely condensed mass region. We use a Swiss cheese model for the inhomogeneities and find that the most significant correction to the Einstein angle occurs not because of the non-linear terms but instead occurs because the condensed mass is embedded in a background cosmology.The Swiss cheese model predicts a decrease in the deflection angle of ~2% for weakly lensed galaxies behind the rich cluster A1689, and that the reduction can be as large as ~5% for similar rich clusters at z\approx 1. Weak lensing deflection angles caused by galaxies can likewise be reduced by as much as ~4%. We show that the lowest order correction in which Lambda appears is proportional to m/r_0*\sqrt{Lambda r_0^2} and could cause as much as a ~0.02% increase in the deflection angle for light that passes through a rich cluster. The lowest order non-linear correction in the mass is proportional to m/r_0*\sqrt{m/r_0} and can increase the deflection angle by ~0.005% for weak lensing by galaxies.
Use of Monoclonal Antibodies Against Two 75,000-Molecular-Weight Glycoproteins Specified by Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 in Glycoprotein Identification and Gene Mapping

Abstract We produced two monoclonal antibodies that precipitate different glycoproteins of similar apparent molecular weight (70,000 to 80,000) from extracts of cells infected with herpes simplex virus type 2. Evidence is presented that one of these glycoproteins is the previously characterized glycoprotein gE, whereas the other maps to a region of the herpes simplex virus type 2 genome collinear with the region in herpes simplex virus type 1 DNA that encodes gC.
Production of Ultrafiltered Skim Milk Retentate Powder. 2. Functional Properties

Abstract High protein skim milk retentate powders with modified functional properties were produced using UF and spray drying. Different heat treatments (65°C for 30 min, 75°C for 28 s, and 85°C for 28 s) and pH adjustments (6.4, 6.7, and 7.0) were applied before spray drying. The pH adjustment affected gel water-holding capacity, acid gel strength, emulsifying capacity, and foaming capacity. Heat treatment also affected gel water-holding capacity, acid gel strength, and emulsifying capacity, but not foaming capacity. The interaction of heat treatment and pH adjustment affected gel water-holding capacity, acid gel strength, emulsifying capacity, and foaming capacity.
Natural history of somatic growth in infants born to women infected by human immunodeficiency virus

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the nature and magnitude of the effect of congenitally or perinatally acquired human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection on somatic growth from birth through 18 months of age. STUDY DESIGN: Anthropometry was performed serially in 282 term infants born to HIV-infected women in a multicenter prospective natural history cohort study. Repeated measures analysis was used to compare z-score anthropometric indexes of weight-for-age, length-for-age, weight-for-length, and head circumference-for-age between infected and uninfected infants, with adjustment for covariates including infant gender; maternal education; prenatal alcohol, tobacco, and/or illicit drug exposure; and mean prenatal CD4+ T-lymphocyte count. A separate repeated measures model was used to assess the effect of infant zidovudine treatment on growth. RESULTS: Infants infected with HIV were an estimated average 0.28 kg lighter and 1.64 cm shorter than uninfected infants at birth, were 0.71 kg lighter and 2.25 cm shorter by 18 months of age, and had a sustained estimated average decrement of 0.70 to 0.75 cm in head circumference. Patterns of growth were similar in male and female infants. Infected infants had a progressive decrement in body mass index from birth through 6 months of age. Infection with HIV was associated with significant decrements across all standardized growth outcome measures after adjustment for covariates. Mean z scores were lower for weight by 0.612 (p EDIATR 1996;128:58-69)
The diversity among us: Puerto Ricans, Cuban Americans, Caribbean Americans, and Central and South Americans

Research on Latino college students is largely based on the experiences of Mexican Americans. In this chapter, diverse experiences of other groups in terms of immigration, educational achievement, and economic attainment are highlighted, and implications for student services are explored.
Mesofauna associated with the marine sponge Amphimedon viridis. Do its physical or chemical attributes provide a prospective refuge from fish predation

Abstract Marine sponges often harbor an abundance of associated organisms. We characterized mesofauna associated with the common tropical sponge Amphimedon viridis, and then tested whether physical (spicules) or chemical (lipophilic or hydrophilic extracts) properties of this sponge provide a prospective refuge for mesofauna from fish predation. Sponge analyses revealed a moderately diverse and numerically rich community of sponge-associated mesofauna comprised primarily of mesocrustaceans (82% of total fauna). Eighty-nine percent of these were amphipods, but smaller numbers of tanaids, decapods, and isopods also occurred. Quantitative sampling of outer surfaces and interstices of fifteen A. viridis yielded a total mean ± 1 SD density of sponge–associated mesofauna of 53 ± 9.3 individuals per 100 cm3 wet sponge tissue. Among the numerically dominant amphipods, 65% occurred on outer sponge surfaces where they are most vulnerable to fish predators. We evaluated whether A. viridis provides a prospective refuge from predation by assessing the palatability of this sponge to the sympatric generalist pinfish Lagodon rhomboides. When presented small (2 mm) bite-size pieces of whole sponge tissue, similar in size to what fish might incidentally ingest should they attempt to consume sponge-mesofaunal associates, pinfish displayed strong feeding deterrence. Alginate food pellets containing tissue-level concentrations of sponge spicules caused a weak but significant deterrent response. In contrast, alginate pellets containing tissue-level concentrations of either lipophilic or hydrophilic extracts of A. viridis were highly deterrent to pinfish. Thus, chemical, and to a considerably lesser degree, physical defenses (spicules) may contribute to this sponge serving as a protective refuge for associated mesofauana.
Collaborative Discourse, Argumentation, and Learning: Preface and Literature Review.

Abstract This article serves two functions. First, it addresses why studying collaborative discourse and collaborative argumentation is important for promoting students’ deep-level understanding of content. A literature review is presented examining the evidence for this claim, concluding that engaging in collaborative discourse and argumentation might have long-term effects in consolidating learning gains. Second, the various articles in this special issue are introduced. The articles address important directions for research, including (a) how to promote pedagogically useful collaborative discourse in the classroom and in workplace setting (for example by modeling and soliciting elaborative discourse moves or by engendering “polite” behavioral norms), (b) understanding the role of joint representations and mental models in collaborative discourse, and (c) methodological difficulties with analyzing nonindependent and categorical data. The importance for educational psychologists in understanding the interaction of cognitive and social processes is highlighted.
Planetary properties leading to liquid water and through it to life

Though alternative chemistries for life can not be totally excluded, the large cosmic abundances of hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon, their strong chemical affinities, the ability of carbon to form the complex chemical compounds required by the high organizational needs of life, and the excellent properties of water as a solvent and medium for chemistry, strongly suggest that life based on carbon and water would be by far the most likely form of life in the Universe. Liquid water, however, cannot be a common cosmic commodity because it can exist only in specific ranges of temperature and pressure. Low gas pressures and tempera-tures, e.g., prevent liquid water from existing in free space. Planets near their star lack water due to the high temperatures of their formation, while planets at large distances would have water as ice. Subterranean pools of liquid water in cold, solid planets, such as a larger Mars, are possible and could even harbor life in these underground pools that would use chemical rather than solar energy, as do organisms on Earth around deep-sea vents. Solar energy, however, is by far the most abundant and hence the most logical form of energy for life, but requires liquid water on the surface of the planet, which presupposes a planetary atmosphere of considerable pressure and therefore a planet of considerable gravity and hence, mass. It would also require other conditions, such as an effective Cold Trap, a reasonable Ozone Layer, a modest Greenhouse Effect, and the avoidance of temperature extremes which could lead to an irreversible run-away glaciation or run-away greenhouse effect. All these planetary requirements are directly related to the mass of the planet, the mass of the star, the distance of the planet from the star,and the different orbital parameters of the planet (spinning rate, inclination of the axis, eccentricity of the orbit, precession, etc.). The complexity of these requirements might make planets like ours, that are able to retain liquid water on their surfaces for billions of years, a rare occurence in the Cosmos, w~th obvious implications on the frequency of life-harboring solar systems in the Galaxy.
Science and treatment development: Lessons from the history of behavior therapy

The behavior therapy movement has led psychology in the development of empirically validated treatment approaches. Three features of the behavior therapy movement distinguish it from other applied approaches and have contributed to its success: (a) defining problems in terms of identifiable behavioral excesses and deficits, (b) derivation of treatment strategies from the findings of basic psychological science, and (c) rigorous examination of treatment efficacy and mechanisms of action. Each of the three defining features are discussed as central to the continued success of behavior therapy. Recent years have witnessed some drift from this tradition. Arguments for adherence to this formula will be provided. Examples of adherence and drift will be discussed.
Effect of total knee arthroplasty on type II diabetes mellitus and hypertension: A prospective study

Advanced osteoarthritis of knee joint if bilateral, severely restricts patient mobility. This acts as an aggravating factor for pre existing comorbid elements of metabolical syndrome (MS) like Type II diabetes mellitus and hypertension as patients are unable to carry out therapeutic walks. Successfully implanted total knee arthroplasty (TKA) increases physical activity and enables to carry out therapeutic walks thus may help in better control of type II diabetes mellitus and hypertension. The objective of this prospective study was to find whether TKA for osteoarthritis knee had any effect to improve blood glucose levels and reduce blood pressure. A prospective study was done in which patients operated for tricompartmental osteoarthritis of knee with associated comorbidities like Type II diabetes mellitus or hypertension during a period of 2008 and 2009 were studied. One hundred and twenty patients were enrolled (55 diabetics, 65 hypertensives) who met our inclusion criteria. Preoperative knee society score, lower extremity activity scale fasting blood glucose level and systolic and diastolic blood pressure were compared with one year followup values. The KSS and LEAS scores were analysed by the Wilcoxon signed ranked test, while the fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels and systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels were analysed by paired ‘t’ test. The reduction of systolic blood pressure by 8 mmHg (t = 5.6, P value <0.05) and diastolic blood pressure by 6 mmHg (t = 7.6, P value <0.05) was recorded which was statistically significant. However, no statistically significant effect on fasting blood glucose levels was observed (t = -0.77, P value = 0.442). KSS improved in DM from preoperative 29 to 86 and LEAS improved from 6.7 to 11.3. Authors are of the opinion that successful total knee replacement results in increased physical activity and reduces blood pressure (systolic and diastolic) in hypertensives. However, the same is not seen in blood glucose level. Increased physical activity and reduced dependence on NSAIDS postoperatively, may be contributing in reduction of systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Further studies in this aspect are necessary.
Chlorine-Induced Mortality in Fish

Abstract Chlorine and chlorine-ammonia compounds have been reported to be toxic to various species of freshwater fish. We have found that the basis of this toxicity in at least one species is the oxidation of hemoglobin to methemoglobin, producing death of the fish due to anoxia.
Loss of adenylate cyclase hormonal sensitivity in chemically transformed epithelial cells

The hormonal sensitivity of adenylate cyclase from a normal rat liver epithelial cell line (K16) and its chemically transformed derivative (W8) were compared. Intact normal rat liver cells had markedly increased cAMP levels after brief exposure to epinephrine, isoproterenol, norepinephrine or prostaglandin E1. In contrast, the cAMP levels of chemically transformed cells were relatively unaffected by these same compounds even after prolonged incubation. A comparison of broken cell adenylate cyclase activities revealed a decreased basal activity in the chemically transformed cells; the response to NaF was similar in the two cell lines, while the response to catecholamines and prostaglandins paralleled the intact cell studies. These data suggest that one reason for loss of adenylate cyclase hormonal responsiveness in chemically transformed rat liver epithelial cells may be a dysfunction or loss of hormone binding sites.
On simultaneous straight-line grid embedding of a planar graph and its dual

Simultaneous representations of planar graphs and their duals normally require that the dual vertices to be placed inside their corresponding primal faces, and the edges of the dual graph to cross only their corresponding primal edges. Erten and Kobourov [C. Erten, S.G. Kobourov, Simultaneous embedding of a planar graph and its dual on the grid, Theory Computer Systems 38 (2005) 313-327] provided a linear time algorithm on simultaneous straight-line grid embedding of a 3-connected planar graph and its dual such that all the vertices are placed on grid points and each edge is drawn as one straight-line segment except for one which is drawn using two segments. Their drawing size is (2n-2) × (2n-2), where n is the total number of vertices in the graph and its dual. They raised an open question on whether there is a large class of planar graphs that allows this simultaneous straight-line grid embedding on a smaller grid. We answer this open question by giving a linear time simultaneous straight-line grid embedding algorithm for a 3-connected planar graph and its dual on a grid of size (n-1) × n.
Public Theology, the Ethics of Belief and the Challenge of Divine Hiddenness

This article considers the claim made by William Clifford that no belief should be held without sufficient reason and its implications for belief in God and public theology. Responses to Clifford, notably by William James, have tended to emphasize the personal side of religious belief. Public theology assumes a means for settling disputes through rational argument. However, David Hume and Immanuel Kant raised significant challenges to belief in God, and this developed during the nineteenth century into a rejection of public theology. This article traces the intellectual history behind Clifford's claim, and argues that, by the time that Freud offers his claim that belief in God is immature, the justification for public theology has been undermined. By clearly identifying the challenge facing public theology, this article lays the framework for constructing a response to the critique of reason given by Kant and the scepticism of Hume. If public theology is to be defended, this response is both necessary and timely.
CONTROL IMPROVEMENT FOR ADVANCED CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT

Advancements in the control of construction equipment can have significant benefits in the industry. Better control can lead to improvements in safety, cost, labor turnover, and productivity. It is helpful to characterize improvements in a control system using performance tests. Results of such tests provide a means of comparing control systems. Research at the University of Texas at Austin has resulted in the development of tests to characterize improvements in the control of a large-scale manipulator (LSM). Tests have shown that autonomous control of the LSM has better performance capability than manual control for well-defined movements or simple tasks. However, computer-enhanced manual control is still required for operation in a typical construction environment. Object-oriented programming was used to implement computer-assisted operation modes that enhance the LSM's performance. This paper discusses the development of performance tests for characterizing control systems for LSMs. The new computer-assisted operation modes also are explained. A description is included identifying lessons learned during this research that should be considered during future development of LSMs.
Expansion of the neuropil of the mushroom bodies in male honey bees is coincident with initiation of flight

The mushroom bodies (MB), the insect brain structures most often associated with learning, have previously been shown to exhibit structural plasticity during the adult behavioral development of female worker and queen honey bees. We now show that comparable morphological changes occur in the brains of male honey bees (drones). The volume of the MB in the brains of drones was estimated from tissue sections using the Cavalieri method. Brains were obtained from six groups of drones that differed in age and flight experience. Circulating levels of juvenile hormone (JH) in these drones were determined by radioimmunoassay (RIA). There was an expansion of the neuropil of the MB that was temporally associated with drone behavioral development, as in female queens and workers. The observed changes in drones were maintained in the presence of low levels of JH, also as in females. These results suggest that expansion of the neuropil of the MB in honey bees is associated with learning the location of the nest, because this learning is the most prominent aspect of behavioral development common to all members (workers, drones, queen) of the honey bee colony.
Lyme disease: diagnostic issues and controversies.

The diagnosis of Lyme disease is a controversial topic. Most practitioners and scientists recognize that Lyme disease is associated with certain objective clinical manifestations supported by laboratory evidence of infection with Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (the etiologic agent). There are others, however, who believe that patients with Lyme disease may have a wide variety of entirely nonspecific symptoms without any objective clinical manifestation and that laboratory evidence of infection by B. burgdorferi is not required to support the diagnosis. In reality, this perspective is not evidence based and would inevitably lead to innumerable misdiagnoses, given the high frequency of medically unexplained symptoms, such as fatigue and musculoskeletal pains, in the general population. Although those espousing this viewpoint do not believe that a positive laboratory test is required, nevertheless, they often seek out and promote alternative, unapproved testing methods that frequently provide false-positive...
Identification, amplification and characterization of miR-17-92 from canine tissue.

Abstract Recently, a novel group of genes encoding small RNA molecules, termed microRNAs (miRNAs), has been discovered to play a vital role in eukaryotic gene expression. Known to act in a post-transcriptional fashion, miRNAs can inhibit translation by binding to messenger RNA (mRNA) or by targeting mRNA for degradation. A search of genetic databases revealed significant conservation of miRNA genes between the domestic dog and the human. This finding suggests that expression patterns may also be conserved. Proof of principle experiments, including serial dilutions and sequencing, were performed to verify that primers made to amplify human mature miRNAs can be used to amplify canine miRNAs, providing that the mature sequences are conserved. TaqMan® Real-time PCR techniques were used to isolate the first miRNA mature products from canine tissues. The expression levels of miR-17-3p, miR-17-5p, miR-18, miR-19a, miR-19b, miR-20, and miR-92 were evaluated in five canine tissues (heart, lung, brain, kidney, and liver) using the delta-delta Ct (critical threshold) method.
Susceptibility genes in movement disorders.

During the last years, remarkable progress in our understanding of molecular genetic mechanisms underlying movement disorders has been achieved. The successes of linkage studies, followed by positional cloning, have dominated the last decade and several genes underlying monogenic disorders have been discovered. The pathobiological understanding garnered from these mutations has laid the foundation for much of the search for genetic loci that confer risk for, rather than cause, disease. With the introduction of whole genome association studies as a novel tool to investigate genetic variation underlying common, complex diseases, a new era in neurogenomics has just begun. As the field rapidly moves forward several new challenges and critical questions in clinical care have to be addressed. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the discovery of susceptibility loci underlying major movement disorders, explain the newest methodologies and tools employed for finding and characterizing genes and discuss how insights into the molecular genetic basis of neurological disorders will impact therapeutic concepts in patient care. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Multi-layer plastic/glass microfluidic systems containing electrical and mechanical functionality

This paper describes an approach for fabricating multi-layer microfluidic systems from a combination of glass and plastic materials. Methods and characterization results for the microfabrication technologies underlying the process flow are presented. The approach is used to fabricate and characterize multi-layer plastic/glass microfluidic systems containing electrical and mechanical functionality. Hot embossing, heat staking of plastics, injection molding, microstenciling of electrodes, and stereolithography were combined with conventional MEMS fabrication techniques to realize the multi-layer systems. The approach enabled the integration of multiple plastic/glass materials into a single monolithic system, provided a solution for the integration of electrical functionality throughout the system, provided a mechanism for the inclusion of microactuators such as micropumps/valves, and provided an interconnect technology for interfacing fluids and electrical components between the micro system and the macro world.
Intraperitoneal Cisplatin and Intravenous Paclitaxel in the Treatment of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Patients with a Positive Second Look

Abstract Objective. The aim of this study was to review the role and safety of intraperitoneal (IP) cisplatin and intravenous (IV) paclitaxel in platinum-sensitive epithelial ovarian cancer patients who were found to have small-volume disease ( Methods. In a retrospective review, 32 patients with small-volume disease had an IP Bardport catheter placed at the time of second look at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (1995–1998). Patients received IP cisplatin (75 mg/m 2 ) every 3 weeks and either IV paclitaxel (135 mg/ m 2 ) every 3 weeks or IV paclitaxel (80 mg/m 2 ) weekly for a maximum of five cycles. Results. Twenty-four (75%) of 32 patients received IP cisplatin/IV paclitaxel every 3 weeks and 8 (25%) received IP cisplatin every 3 weeks with weekly IV paclitaxel. Seven (21.9%) of 32 patients required interruption of treatment secondary to neuropathy. Of these, 4 (15.6%) were changed to another IV chemotherapeutic agent, and 3 (9.3%) required discontinuation of IV paclitaxel only. Two (6%) patients required IP port removal secondary to malfunction and were changed to IV therapy and 1 (3%) requested discontinuation of IP therapy secondary to abdominal pain. Median follow-up was 19 months (mean, 20.1 months; range, 6–36 months). Progression of disease after completion of IP therapy was documented by clinical exam, abnormal CT, and/or rising CA-125 levels. The median progression-free interval was 13 months (mean, 15.1 months; range, 2–33 months). Median overall survival was 27 months (mean, 34.2 months; range, 10–42 months). At the time of review, 13 (40.6%) of the 32 patients were alive with disease, 7 (21.9%) were without evidence of disease, and 12 (37.5%) were dead of disease. Conclusion. IP cisplatin in combination with IV paclitaxel appears to be no more effective than other reported regimens as second-line therapy for patients with persistent small-volume disease. Neurotoxicity is dose limiting, and the combination cannot be recommended for the routine care of persistent peritoneal cancers.
Fmoc mediated synthesis of Peptide Nucleic Acids

Abstract The syntheses of the Fmoc-protected Peptide Nucleic Acid (PNA) monomer pentafluorophenyl esters of adenine (26), cytosine (23), guanine (29) and thymine (20), and their oligomerization are described. The Fmoc PNA backbone 1 is prepared as a stable hydrochloride salt. The base acetic acids of adenine (4) and cytosine (3) were prepared by Cbz protection of the exocyclic amino groups followed by alkylation with t-butylbromoacetate and subsequent acid hydrolysis of the t-butyl ester. Allylation of 6-chloro-2-aminopurine followed by acid hydrolysis, Cbz protection with N-(benzyloxycarbonyl)imidazole, ozonolytic cleavage, and oxidation afforded the Cbz-protected guanine acetic acid (5). The base acetic acids (2, 3, 4 and 5) were coupled to the backbone (1) with either EDC (2 and 3) or BOP reagent (4 and 5). Acid hydrolysis of the resulting t-butyl esters and transesterification afforded the corresponding pentafluorophenyl esters (20, 23, 26 and 29). Oligomerization is conducted on a 0.05 mmol scale with a mere 2 fold excess of monomer in each coupling cycle. The N-terminal Fmoc group is retained on the final oligomer, following HF cleavage and deprotection, providing a convenient lipophilic handle for HPLC purification.
Selective β-elimination in the reaction of 2-propanol to acetone on Rh(111)-p(2 × 1)-O

Abstract The formation of acetone from 2-propanol and Rh(111)-p(2 × 1)-O has been investigated by temperature programmed reaction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies and isotopic labeling experiments under ultrahigh vacuum conditions. Some 2-propanol forms 2-propoxide on Rh(111)-p(2× 1)-O below 250 K and selective β (with respect to the metal in 2-propoxide) C-H bond breaking at ∼ 270 K is the primary path for acetone evolution. A minor amount of reversible C-H bond activation is also observed. β-carbon-hydrogen bond breaking is proposed to be the rate-limiting step for the initial acetone evolution from 2-propanol on Rh(111)-p(2× 1)-O at high coverage based on kinetic isotope effects. The rate of acetone evolution is in part rate-limited by desorption, however, for low 2-propanol exposures. In addition, there is some oxygen exchange between the surface and the acetone at ∼ 320 K. Combustion to H 2 O, CO and CO 2 is a competing pathway. Irreversible γ-C-H bond breaking primarily leads to combustion. The reactivity of 2-propanol on the (2 × 1)-O surface is dramatically different from that on clean Rh(111), where nonselective decomposition to CO and H 2 is induced. The inhibition of extensive, nonselective C-H and C-C bond breaking is a crucial factor in determining the selectivity for β-dehydrogenation to produce acetone.