cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Delayed prostate-specific antigen recurrence after radical prostatectomy: how to identify and what are their clinical outcomes?

OBJECTIVES To identify factors that predict delayed (> 5 years) prostate-specific antigen recurrence (PSAR) after radical prostatectomy (RP) and to analyze the associated clinical outcomes. METHODS A cohort of 4561 men who underwent RP between 1988 and 2008 was retrieved from the Duke University Prostate Center database. Among them, 1207 (26.5%) had PSAR and were included in this study. The cohort was then divided into 2 groups; PSAR before 5 years (early PSAR) and PSAR after 5 years (delayed PSAR), and Kaplan Meier analysis was performed. Univariate and logistic regression analysis was carried out to determine significant predictors of delayed PSAR, using factors such as race, age, body mass index, PSA, surgical margin status, pathologic Gleason sum, pathologic tumor stage, and prostate weight. RESULTS There was a marginal difference between the early and delayed PSAR groups with regard to metastasis-free survival (P = .062). A significant difference in disease-specific survival was found between the 2 groups (P = .025). Patients with pathologic Gleason sums 7 (OR = 2.38). Patients with a PSA 20 ng/mL (OR = 2.38). CONCLUSIONS Approximately 90% of PSAR occurred within 5 years after RP. Lower pathologic Gleason sums and lower PSA at diagnosis were associated with delayed PSAR. Patients with delayed PSAR have a disease-specific survival advantage as compared to men with early PSAR.
Impending recovery of Kirtland's warbler: Case study in the effectiveness of the endangered species act

). This particular recovery program actually began before passage of the federal ESA, when biologists alerted the Michigan Department of Natural Resources of the perilously low population of this bird, which only breeds under jack pine (Pinus banksiana) trees in Michigan. By the time an ESA Recovery Team was formed for this bird in 1975 (the first such team created under the ESA), a legacy of consensus and interagency cooperation was well established. This has led to successful efforts at habitat management and control of its nest parasite, the brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater). While the Kirtland's warbler is not yet recovered, its population is near an all-time high, and its recovery is possible within the next decade. When (and if) this happens, it will be clearly attributable to this successful model of federalism for natural resources management.
Bias: Considerations for research practice

Purpose. The concept of bias and its effects on study results are reviewed. Summary. Understanding bias is paramount for the conduct of sound research studies. In the context of research methodology, bias refers to the presence of systematic error in a study. This report serves as an introduction to the concept of bias and describes three major areas through which bias is introduced into research studies of health care interventions: (1) factors that relate to the exposure of patients to treatments in the population, (2) factors that influence inclusion of patients in the study, and (3) factors related to assessment and measurement. Methods to address bias in both design and analysis stages of a study are presented, including restriction, matching, multivariate analysis, instrumental variable estimation, and the prevention of misclassification of information. While some biases are specific to certain study designs and approaches, the general concepts of how bias is introduced into a study apply equally to randomized controlled trials, prospective observational or quasiexperimental studies, and retrospective studies. An important difference between the designs is how much opportunity the investigator has to avoid bias and influence accuracy of measurements, ranging from ideally full control in randomized controlled trials to almost no control in retrospective studies of automated databases. Conclusion. Investigators should aim to avoid bias in the design of a study, adjust for bias in the study analysis if bias cannot feasibly be avoided, and quantify and discuss the effects of residual bias on study results.
Ethanol Conversion on Cyclic (MO3)3 (M = Mo, W) Clusters

The reactions of ethanol (CH3CH2OD) over cyclic (MO3)3 (M = Mo, W) clusters were studied experimentally and computationally. The cyclic clusters were prepared by sublimation of MoO3 and WO3 powders in a vacuum. To evaluate the cluster activity in dehydration, dehydrogenation, and condensation reactions, they were suspended in an ethanol matrix on an inert substrate, graphene monolayer on Pt(111). The reaction products formed upon heating were followed and quantified using temperature-programmed desorption. The experimental results were corroborated using coupled cluster CCSD(T) calculations at DFT optimized geometries that provide quantitative molecular-scale information on the reaction mechanisms. The dehydration and dehydrogenation of ethanol probe both the Lewis/Bronsted acid/base and redox properties of the metal centers. The overall conversion of the alcohol is governed by the Lewis acidity of the metal center, and product selectivities, as determined by the relative weights of dehydrogenation and de...
Analysis of Genes Isolated from Plated Hemocytes of the Pacific Oyster, Crassostreas gigas

A complementary deoxyribonucleic acid library was constructed from hemocytes of Crassostrea gigas that had been plated on poly-lysine plates for 24 h. From this library, 2,198 expressed sequence tags (ESTs) of greater than or equal to 100 bp were generated and analyzed. A large number of genes that potentially could be involved in the physiology of the oyster hemocyte were uncovered. They included proteins involved in cytoskeleton rearrangement, proteases and antiproteases, regulators of transcription and translation, cell death regulators, receptors and their associated protein factors, lectins, signal transduction proteins, and enzymes involved in eicosanoid and steroid synthesis and xenobiotic metabolism. Based on their relationship with innate immunity, the expression of selected genes was analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction in gills from bacterial-challenged oysters. Several genes observed in the library were significantly upregulated by bacterial challenge including interleukin 17, astacin, cystatin B, the EP4 receptor for prostaglandin E, the ectodysplasin receptor, c-jun, and the p100 subunit of nuclear factor-kB. Using a similar approach, we have been analyzing the genes expressed in trout macrophages. While there are significant differences between the types of genes present in vertebrate macrophages compared with oyster hemocytes, there are some striking similarities including proteins involved in cytoskeletal rearrangement, proteases and antiproteases, and genes involved in certain signal transduction pathways underlying immune processes such as phagocytosis. Finally, C. virginica homologs of some of the C. gigas genes uncovered in the ESTs were obtained by aligning the ESTs reported here, against the assembled C. virginica ESTs at the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
Selective Surface Heat Treatment of Cr and CrN Coatings on Steel

AbstractChromium and chromium nitride coatings on steels have been prepared with pulsed dc magnetron sputter deposition at a frequency of 185 kHz and a duty cycle of 96%. The coating process was carried out at 150 W with the substrate temperature maintained at 200°C. For nitride coatings, reactive sputter deposition was carried out in Ar with 3, 5, or 7%N2. Heat treatments were performed for coated steels with an infrared (IR) processing technique in an attempt to modify the interfaces and change coating properties. T he heat treatment was carried out at 400°C for 2 and 5 min. Characterisation of coated samples included X-ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscopy, and microhardness tests to verify the effect of the heat treatment. Results from XRD analysis indicated that IR heat treatment at 400°C for 2 or 5 min did not change the phases present in the coatings. Optical images of the coating microstructure show that cracks were developed on coatings deposited under 7%N2 even after only 2 min heat treatmen...
Abstract B13: Cycloartane-3,24,25-triol: A cancer chemopreventive cycloartane inhibits MRCKα kinase and demonstrates anti prostate cancer activity in vitro

Abstract In our study of the Jamaican ball moss (Tillandsia recurvata L.) for its prostate cancer chemotherapeutic properties, we have identified a number of cycloartane-type compounds from the chloroform crude extract. Cycloart-23-ene-3,25-diol was isolated and characterized from the extract. Attempts to run this compound in our kinase and antiproliferative assays were unsuccessful because of solubility problems. A search of the literature led us to Cycloartane-3,24,25-triol, a close analog of Cycloart-23-ene-3,25-diol. Cycloart-23-ene-3,25-diol differs from Cycloartane-3,24,25-triol only in the presence of a third hydroxyl group in this compound while Cycloart-23-ene-3,25-diol has only two hydroxyl groups. We isolated Cycloartane-3,24,25-triol from its source plant (Chrysanthemum morifolium) and screened it against a 451 kinase panel for inhibitory properties as well as for anti- prostate cancer cell proliferation activity using DU145 and PC-3 cell lines. Cycloartane-3,24,25-triol inhibited MRCKα (Myotonic dystrophy kinase-related Cdc42–binding kinase) kinase at a Kd of 0.26μM and showed IC50 values of 1.56±0.18μM and 2.04±0.28μM against DU145 and PC-3 prostate cancer cell lines respectively. MRCK kinases are now known to contribute to the process of tumor progression and metastasis through the control of the cytoskeleton which regulates tumor cell motility and invasion. In prostate cancer, the MRCKα kinase indirectly contributes to tumor progression by activating other kinases including the Lim kinase 1 (LIMK 1) which is over-expressed in prostate cancer and known to contribute to tumor cell invasion and migration leading to metastasis to other organs. This is the first report on the anti-prostate cancer activity and kinase inhibitory activity of Cycloartane-3,24,25-triol. The combined kinase and in vitro antiproliferation activity of Cycloartane-3,24,25-triol makes it a good candidate for further studies to determine its in vivo efficacy against prostate cancer. Citation Format: Henry I.C. Lowe, Ngeh J. Toyang, Joseph Bryant. Cycloartane-3,24,25-triol: A cancer chemopreventive cycloartane inhibits MRCKα kinase and demonstrates anti prostate cancer activity in vitro [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Advances in Prostate Cancer Research; 2012 Feb 6-9; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(4 Suppl):Abstract nr B13.
Pollio's approach to existential phenomenology: A brief synopsis.

HERE IS A GROWING demand for evidence o support our nursing practice. Although uch of the research evidence has been quanitatively derived, not all research questions relvant to nursing can be reduced to statistical nalysis. Take, for example, questions of an thical or philosophical nature. Similarly, quesions that involve experience and the meanings hey have for people require a different aproach, namely qualitative. Qualitative and quanitative methodologies can be complementary o give nursing a more complete picture.
Pharmacological cardioversion of recent onset atrial fibrillation.

This editorial refers to “Flecainide versus ibutilide for immediate cardioversion of atrial fibrillation of recent onset”1 by J. Reisinger et al. on page 1318 Atrial fibrillation is the most common, clinically relevant arrhythmia with a prevalence of about 2% in the general population. The symptoms in atrial fibrillation are primarily caused by fast ventricular rates, which can be controlled by using the atrio-ventricular node blocking drugs or, even more effectively, by converting atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm. Although the traditional treatment options available to treat atrial fibrillation are rhythm control versus ventricular rate control, the best method to control ventricular rate, however, is by conversion to sinus rhythm. Even though the reported rate of spontaneous conversion is up to 50%, in the first 24 h after the onset of atrial fibrillation, the earlier restoration of sinus rhythm by cardioversion will result in an early alleviation of the patient's symptoms, will eliminate the need for the use of atrio-ventricular node blocking drugs for rate control, will decrease the chances of thromboembolism, will prevent tachycardia-related cardiomyopathy, and will lessen atrial mechanical dysfunction and electrophysiological remodelling. Atrial electrophysiological remodelling, which begins to take place within a few hours of the initiation of atrial fibrillation, results in a decreased atrial refractoriness that may facilitate atrial fibrillation and decrease the chances of successful cardioversion. Moreover, the post-conversion atrial stunning, a phenomenon clearly responsible for post-conversion thromboembolism, is also related to the duration of atrial fibrillation, which makes the case even stronger for an early conversion to sinus rhythm.1 Therefore, if it is decided to restore sinus rhythm, why not attempt it as soon as possible? The most efficient and immediate method of atrial fibrillation cardioversion is by direct electric current, which is successful in 80–90% of cases. The potential drawbacks of direct current … *Correspondence to: Ijaz A. Khan, Division of Cardiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 22 South Greene Street, S3B06, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA. Tel.: +1-410-328-2251; fax: +1-410-328-2255 E-mail address: ikhan{at}medicine.umaryland.edu
Reduction of ritual checking by a relaxation-delay treatment

Abstract A 27-yr-old male with a life-long history of ritual re-checking was treated by imposing increasingly lengthy scheduled durations of relaxation just prior to ritual performance. Although developed within the clinical situation, treatment was mainly performed in the natural setting. Within-session feedback and social reinforcement were employed to regulate and maintain progress. The re-checking behavior was completely extinguished over the course of 12 therapy weeks and did not recur in 28 follow-up weeks.
PtRu nanoparticle electrocatalyst with bulk alloy properties prepared through a sonochemical method.

Properties of PtRu nanoparticles prepared using high-intensity sonochemistry are reported. Syntheses were carried out in tetrahydrofuran (THF) containing Ru3+ and Pt4+ in a fixed mole ratio of either 1:10 or 1:1. X-ray diffraction measurements confirmed sonocation produces an alloy phase and showed that the composition of the nanometer scale metal particles is close to the mole fraction of Ru3+ and Pt4+ in solution with deviations that tend toward Ru enrichment in the alloy phase. The materials gave responses that are similar in terms of peak potential and current density, referenced to the catalyst active surface area, to those of bulk alloys in voltammetry experiments involving CO stripping and CH3OH electrochemical oxidation in 0.1 M H2SO4. The results show that sonochemical methods have the potential to produce nanometer scale bimetallic electrocatalysts that possess alloy properties. The materials have application in mechanistic studies of fuel cell reactions and as platforms for the development of C...
P-56 Does laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass improve quality of life in both adolescents and adult morbidly obese patients?

Results: There were 1,471 pts with LGB with avg. pre-op weight of 307 Lbs, EBW of 151 Lbs and BMI of 49.8kg/m2 and 1,368 pts with AGB with respective parameters of 275 lbs, 120 lbs, and 44.5kg/m. 30-day mortality was 0.07% and 0%, respectively. Post-op morbidity occurred in 7% and 1.5%, respectively. In LGB group 1.3% had reoperations compared to 0.3% in AGB group. Avg BMI in LGB pts decreased to 32.6 kg/m at 2 years with increase to 37.4 kg/m at 5 years. AGB pts had gradual decrease of BMI over 5 year period to 37.7 kg/m. %EBWL at 1, 2 and 5 yrs was 68%, 67% and 55% in LGB group and 35%, 40% and 45% in AGB group, respectively. Analysis between the group of pts with BMI 50 kg/m and mega-obese demonstrated %EBWL of 74%, 74% and 62% vs. 59%, 62% and 46% in LGB subgroups while in AGB subgroups these parameters were 36%, 35% and 50% compared to 28%, 35% and 40%, respectively. While the proportion of patients with EBWL 50% has decreased over 5 years in LGB group to 58%, in AGB group it went up from 21% at 1 year to reach 50%. Conclusion: LGB pts do exhibit higher %EBWL in first 2 years with weight regain at 5 years especially in mega-obese pts. AGB while producing lower avg %EBWL demonstrated more stable weight loss maintenance in pts who have succeeded and kept the band. While safety profile and effectiveness of LGB and AGB are different, and LGB being undisputed “standard of care”, at present both procedures have place in bariatric surgery.
Computational and experimental study of axisymmetric coflow partially premixed methane/air flames

Abstract Six coflowing laminar, partially premixed methane/air flames, varying in primary equivalence ratio from ∞ (nonpremixed) to 2.464, have been studied both computationally and experimentally to determine the fundamental effects of partial premixing. Computationally, the local rectangular refinement solution–adaptive gridding method incorporates a damped modified Newton’s method to solve the system of coupled nonlinear elliptic partial differential equations for each flame. The model includes a C2 chemical mechanism, multicomponent transport, and an optically thin radiation submodel. Experimentally, both probe and optical diagnostic methods are used to measure the temperature and species concentrations along each flame’s centerline. Most experimentally measured trends are well predicted by the computational model. Because partial premixing decreases the flame height when the fuel flowrate is held constant, computational and experimental centerline profiles have been plotted against nondimensional axial position to reveal additional effects of partial premixing. Heat release profiles, as well as those of several species, indicate that the majority of the partially premixed flames contain two flame fronts: an inner premixed front whose strength grows with decreasing primary equivalence ratio; and an outer nonpremixed front. As the amount of partial premixing increases, computational results predict a continual reduction in the amount of flow radially inward; the resulting decrease in radial transport is responsible for various effects observed both computationally and experimentally, including a cooling of the gases near the burner surface. At the same time, radiative losses decrease with increasing amounts of premixing, resulting in higher flame temperatures.
A 3-D Body Imaging and Measurement System for Apparel Customization

This paper reports the development of an automated, accurate system for 3-D body imaging and measurement. The system consists of a digital camera, a rotary stage, a lighting booth, and the software for 3-D body image analysis. The body dimensions that can be measured using this system include the length of a body surface curve (e.g. apex and crotch), the body circumference at a given height (e.g. bust and waist), and other dimensions useful for apparel pattern design. The paper also presents a multi-view algorithm for depth recovery, and the main procedures for body surface modeling based on the theory of differential geometry.
Multiple cytosolic forms of hepatic β-hydroxy-β-methyglutaryl coA synthase: Possible regulatory role in cholesterol synthesis

Summary Two cytosolic forms (I and II) of HMG CoA synthase have been obtained in homogeneous form from chicken liver. The two enzymes have distinctly different electrophoretic and chromatographic properties; synthase I is composed of a single polypeptide chain of about 52,000 daltons, whereas, two identical or similar polypeptide chains of about 55,000 daltons comprise synthase II. On the basis of their cytoplasmic localization and the fact that cholesterol feeding has a negative feed-back effect on cytosolic synthase activity, it appears that one or both of these enzymes carry out the committed step in hepatic cholesterol synthesis.
ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAPHIC CHANGES INDUCED BY STIMULATION OF THE CEREBELLUM OF MAN.

Abstract The human cerebellum was electrically stimulated and alterations in the EEG were observed in 20 out of 26 subjects. 1. 1. The usual response, when posterior cerebellar structures were stimulated, was a change from a low voltage alpha-like frequency or fast frequency patterns to high voltage slow ones. Frequency changes without voltage changes and vice versa could be observed. In each case the dura nearest to the active cerebellar points was stimulated in order to obtain data on possible spread of current. 2. 2. In an occasional patient a low voltage fast record was produced. This was seen more frequently when anterior rather than posterior cerebellar structures were stimulated. 3. 3. In one patient it was possible to induce EEG changes with single electrical shocks. In the other responding patients it was necessary to use bursts of 1 sec or more of stimuli ranging in frequency from 10–300/sec. 4. 4. Disturbances of consciousness were not observed, nor were sensory alterations in the auditory and tactile spheres noted. Changes in visual and proprioceptive sensation were not studied. 5. 5. Epileptiform discharges were not seen. There were no signs of muscular movement resulting from these electrical stimuli.
Healing the congregation: The dynamics of a congregation's process of recovery from its minister's sexual boundary crossing with parishioners

This article recounts and interprets one congregation's struggles to recover from the discovery that its highly-regarded, married male minister had been sexually involved with several female members of the congregation over an extended period of his ministry. It identifies four predictable phases and five polar tensions. Guidelines for justice-based resolutions are provided.
The Junior Fellows Program: motivating urban youth toward careers in health, science, and medicine.

Lack of diversity in the health, science, and medical professions has been documented as a contributor to health disparities in the United States, and early intervention is essential for the recruitment of underrepresented students into the health professions. The Junior Fellows Program, a partnership between the New York Academy of Medicine, New York City public schools, and regional academic medical centers, is designed to stimulate students' interest in health, science, medicine, and research. From seminars designed to advance Junior Fellows' skills in identifying concrete strategies for improving health and preventing illness, to understanding the research process and the nature of scientific inquiry, the program engages Junior Fellows in project-based learning, works to enhance their critical thinking skills, and helps them to foster positive interactions with practicing physicians and health professionals. Surveys of program graduates indicate the program has been influential in creating a high level of motivation to pursue carrers related to health, science, and medicine. The program continues to work on enhancing educational opportunities for urban public school students and promoting career awareness for the health professions, with a special emphasis on improving the proportion of minorities and women who enter these fields.
The influence of composition gradients on tensile properties of weld metal

In this study, the effects of weld metal microsegregation, as altered by post-weld heat treatments, on both low and high temperature tensile properties were investigated on an alloy system which exhibits significant segregation of the major alloying elements without complex transformations or precipitation. Monel alloy 400, which consists primarily of nickel and copper, was chosen as a model system. This system is a single phase FCC solid solution at all temperatures, and has a low distribution coefficient, k. On solidification, significant microsegregation occurs with copper segregating to the interdendritic boundaries.
The rate of treatment of chronic hepatitis C in patients co-infected with HIV in an urban medical centre.

Summary. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-infection is common. HIV co-infection results in a higher rate of histologic progression and shorter interval to HCV-related cirrhosis. Successful treatment of HCV with interferon-based therapy reduces the morbidity and mortality of patients. Significant factors may limit the availability of treatment in co-infected patients. The rate of treatment of HCV and limiting factors to treatment in a co-infected population in an urban setting were determined. A retrospective review of co-infected patients was conducted at our liver and gastrointestinal (GI) clinics for treatment of HCV from July 2001 to June 2002. Treatment of HCV and reasons for nontreatment were recorded. A total of 104 HCV/HIV co-infected patients were identified. Seventy-two per cent were males. Mean age was 47.2 years (32–72). Seventy-four of the 82 (90%) with identifiable risk factors for HCV infection had a history of intravenous drug use (IVDU). Twenty per cent (21/104) of the total underwent a liver biopsy. Sixty-seven per cent who had a liver biopsy were treated. Overall, sixteen patients were treated. Eighty-eight (85%) patients were not treated for the following reasons: 13 refused treatment, and 75 were ineligible. Of the ineligible patients, 40% were noncompliant with visits, 15% were active substance abusers, 13% had decompensated cirrhosis, 8% had significant active psychiatric conditions and 24% had significant co-morbid disease. A majority of patients co-infected with HCV/HIV had a IVDU history. Most co-infected patients were not eligible for HCV treatment. A majority of noncandidates had potentially modifiable psychosocial factors leading to nontreatment.
Lessons learned in the surgical management of renal cell carcinoma

Surgical excision, the mainstay of management of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), has evolved significantly over the last 4 decades. Radiological imaging is crucial to the diagnosis and staging of RCC, and technological advances have facilitated more precise preoperative assessment. Additionally, wider use of cross-sectional imaging modalities has led to increasing incidental diagnosis of small, early-stage RCC. Nephron-sparing surgery (NSS), originally developed to treat RCC arising in a solitary functioning kidney, has been demonstrated to be a safe and effective alternative to radical nephrectomy. NSS is now also applicable to tumors of suitable size and anatomy in patients with a normal contralateral kidney, thus facilitating preservation of renal function and management of metachronous contralateral pathology. Laparoscopic and percutaneous approaches have developed over the last decade, thus providing minimally invasive modalities, with shortened convalescence and improved cosmesis. Advanced RCC, involving venous extension or nodal spread, is increasingly amenable to surgical management, although appropriate patient selection is crucial. Furthermore, surgical excision of the primary lesion appears to be an integral part of systemic therapy for metastatic RCC.
Role of Thyroid in Increased Protein Metabolism ol Phlorhizin Diabetes.

Summary and ConclusionsThe administration of pholorhizin results in a stimulationof the thyroid gland which in turn is responsible for part of the increased protein metabolism observed in pholrhizin diabetes. Since this increased protein metabolism of the phlorhizinized animal continues ever after the removal of the kidneys, but does not occur when phlorhizin is administreed to previously nephrectomized animals,2 it is probable that this drug exerts some specific effect on the kidney, which is in turn responsible for the thyroid stimulation. Our observations do not offer evidence for the possibility that the blood sugar level is the responsible factor in the increased activity of the thyroid but suggest some primary renal factor.
Traditional scholarly publishers and Web 2.0: the case of Springer

Purpose – Many traditional commercial publishers realise that they need to rejuvenate at least the interface part of their software in order to keep up with the trends in online information retrieval, and information dissemination that cannot be sufficiently limited by the software equivalent of the “No solicitation” and “No trespass” signs. This paper aims to look at the case of Springer and its attempts to address this issue.Design/methodology/approach – The paper focuses on the new version of SpringerLink (launched in August 2010) and other partially free services offered by Springer, the second largest scholarly publisher. The data reported here were collected during the first week of 2011.Findings – The paper finds that many of the Springer services can significantly improve the efficiency of searching the SpringerLink databases. Most can be and should be directly incorporated in an upcoming release of the software. Others need more time for improvement, and to become practical and functional.Origina...
Relationship between circulating antisperm antibodies in women and autoantibodies on the ejaculated sperm of their partners.

Abstract The relationship between antibodies on the surface of ejaculated sperm and circulating antibodies in female partners was evaluated. Of 616 couples examined by the immunobead binding test, there was a 12.4% incidence of sperm-surface antibodies in men whose wives had antisperm antibodies in their sera, but only a 6.5% incidence in partners of women who lacked these antibodies (p
Excitation-energy redistribution in the cryptomonad alga Cryptomonas ovata

Abstract We have studied the redistribution of excitation energy in the cryptomonad alga Cryptomonas ovata . Low-temperature fluorescence emission spectra from cells preilluminated with light 1 and light 2 show that preferential excitation of Photosystem II (PS II) leads to decreased fluorescence emission from chlorophyll (Chl) a associated with PS II relative to the emission following the preferential excitation of Photosystem I (PS I). The fluorescence change is indicative of a light-state transition by the cells. However, comparision of measurements of the kinetics of P-700 photooxidation by cells fixed with glutaraldehyde following illumination with light 1 or light 2 shows that the relative activity of PS I is lower in cells fixed in light 2. This is in contrast to the expectation for cells in State 2. Excitation spectra for the fluorescence emission from PS II Chl a show that preferential excitation of PS II leads to a decreased probability for energy transfer from phycoerythrin and Chl c 2 to PS II when compared to cells in which PS I is preferentially excited. This result is in accordance with recent picosecond time-resolved fluorescence studies (Bruce, D., Biggins, J., Charbonneau, S. and Thewalt, M. (1987) in Progress in Photosynthesis Research (Biggins, J., ed.), Vol. II, pp. 777–780, Martinus Nijhoff, Dordrecht) and we, therefore, suggest that C. ovata does not undergo a classical light-state transition. However, preferential excitation of PS II or PS I appears to cause pigment-protein conformational changes which change the probability for energy transfer from phycoerythrin to PS II, and we suggest that this may be a mechanism for photoprotection of PS II. Studies of the kinetics of excitation-energy redistribution, and of the effects of electron-transport inhibitors and uncouplers of photophosphorylation indicate that the mechanism for excitation-energy redistribution in C. ovata and phycobilisome-containing organisms may be similar.
A BASIC STAINING MATERIAL ASSOCIATED WITH THE PENETRATION PROCESS IN RESISTANT AND SUSCEPTIBLE POWDERY MILDEWED BARLEY

Summary A possible mechanism for resistance has been observed in powdery mildewed barley (Erysiphe graminis f. sp. hordei on Hordeum vulgare). A substance which stains with basic protein staining procedures occurs in papillae of susceptible and resistant powdery mildew infected barley. It is first detectable after the infection peg penetrates the host cell wall. In susceptible host cells this substance is confined to the papilla, whereas in resistant host cells this substance spreads throughout the penetrated cell and to adjacent mesophyll cells beneath the infected cell. The spread of this substance correlates with the expression of resistance in the host cells.
Rat liver mitochondrial lysine tRNA (anticodon U∗UU) contains a rudimentary D-ARM and 2 hypermodified nucleotides in its anticodon loop

Abstract A lysine tRNA (anticodon U∗UU) was isolated from rat liver mitochondria and sequenced. The sequence, pCAUUGCGAm1Am2GCUUAGAGCm2GUUAACCU U ∗ UU -t6AAGUUAAAGUUAGAGACAACAAAUCUCCACAAUGACCAOH, can be written in cloverleaf form. It exhibits many unorthodox features, perhaps the most strikking of which is the small size of the D-arm consisting of only 9 nucleotides. The anticodon loop contains 2 hypermodified nucleotides, U∗27 (probably 5-methoxycarbonylmethyluridine) and t6A30 (N-[N-(9-β-D-ribofuranosylpurin-6-yl)carbamoyl]threonine). The presence of U∗ in the first (“wobble”) position of the anticodon probably prevents the lysine tRNA from reading asparagine (AAY) codons. t6A, which is 3′-adjacent to the anticodon in most tRNAs recognizing codons starting with A, and other modified nucleosides occupy expected positions. We hypothesize that enzymes modifying the wobble position and the position 3′-adjacent to the anticodon recognize specific nucleotides in the anticodon.
Disclosure of industry relationships by anesthesiologists: is the conflict of interest resolved?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Anesthesiologists are flooded with requests that they themselves reveal their associations with industry and other external sources of financial support and also with stories about adverse outcomes related to poorly managed conflict of interest (COI) in research, education, and clinical practice. Guidelines for evaluating COI in these areas are needed and provision of such guidelines is the goal of this review. RECENT FINDINGS The medical literature and lay press provide ample publications outlining the extent of the COI problem and recent efforts to manage COI with numerous opinions on how to best accomplish COI management. The Institute of Medicine has provided significant guidance with a recent exhaustive review with recommendations. The central theme of managing COI is disclosure. However, there remains an unsettling void in this simple approach, which is reviewed. Moreover, there is a rising chorus of opposing views suggesting that not all collaborations with industry constitute a conflict. SUMMARY A balanced review of the pros and cons of industry collaboration in research, education, and clinical practice is presented along with recommendations for evaluating potential COI in anesthesia practice. Current guidelines generally call for simple disclosure of the presence of COI and for sponsoring professional societies and institutions to evaluate and manage COIs. However, for the anesthesiologist reading an article or chapter or attending an oral presentation by a conflicted author or presenter, in attempting to ascertain the possibility of bias simple disclosure seems inadequate to enable reliable assessment of potential bias. Information should be made available regarding the extent of industry involvement in the activity and the actual amounts of remuneration rendered to supported authors and speakers.
Impact of 'Mad Cow Disease' publicity on trends in meat and total vitamin A consumption in Geneva between 1993 and 2000.

Impact of ‘Mad Cow Disease’ publicity on trends in meat and total vitamin A consumption in Geneva between 1993 and 2000
CCN formation from DMS oxidation without SO2 acting as an intermediate

An alternate pathway for generating cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) in the remote marine boundary layer (MBL) from the oxidation of biogenically-derived dimethyl sulfide (DMS) is proposed. This pathway invokes the production of H[sub 2]SO[sub 4] from DMS without SO[sub 2] serving as an intermediate in the oxidation sequence. The H[sub 2]SO[sub 4] thus produced then undergoes bimolecular nucleation to form tiny sulfate condensation nuclei (CN). These CN rapidly grow to size sufficiently large to act as CCN. While CCN production from SO[sub 2] appears to be inefficient, model calculations indicate that the alternate pathway is capable of generating significant numbers of new CCN in the MBL within a two to three day time period. The alternate pathway also suggests a strong coupling between oceanic emissions of DMS and the number of CCN in the MBL. 31 refs., 3 figs.
Momentum slits, collimators and masks in the SLC

The high specific power densities in the SLC (Stanford Linear Collider) give rise to problems in collimation and momentum analysis, beam containment, machine protection, and background control. The results of an extensive program to develop most of the devices deemed necessary for operation of the arc matching sections and the final focus region are presented. Emphasis is placed on materials selection and on unique features of remotely adjustable slits and halo clipper collimators which have to operate with great precision in a high-radiation, ultra-high-vacuum environment. Also covered are solutions for a few fixed-aperture machine protection collimators. >
Neural Modeling Fields for Multitarget/Multisensor Tracking

We describe a new approach for combining range and Doppler data from multiple radar platforms to perform multi-target detection and tracking. In particular, we assume azimuthal measurements are either coarse or unavailable, so that multiple sensors are required to triangulate target tracks using range and Doppler measurements only. The algorithm framework is based upon neural modeling fields, a biologically-inspired neural architecture, which yields advantages over conventional multi-target tracking algorithms by reducing the computational complexity during data association by several orders of magnitude. The algorithm is tested on synthetic multi-sensor data, and the results demonstrate that accurate tracks can be estimated by exploiting spatial diversity in the sensor locations. These results are promising, and demonstrate a surprising degree of robustness in the presence of nonhomogeneous clutter and uncertainty in the number of targets.
SmartDiet: A personal diet consultant for healthy meal planning

Effective personal dietary guidelines are essential for health management and preventing chronic diseases. The objective of this research is to achieve nutrient-balanced food recommendations for each individual, while considering individual's requirements at the same time. To reach this goal, we developed a location-aware interactive diet consultant named SmartDiet based on the multi-objective optimization. The proposed personalized diet planning approach not only translates nutrient recommendations into realistic dish choices, but also accepts feedbacks from users to fine-tune their meal plans. The results showed that daily nutrition needs can be fulfilled by the designated meals, and the interactive diet planning scheme helps a user adjust the plan in an easier way. The guidelines generated by SmartDiet are expected to potentially improve the overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases of individuals.
Fairness . . . fact or fable

The right of the broadcaster to advocate his own views over his station should be (depending upon who is doing the talking) anything from absolute to prohibited. This particular question will continue to worry and affect broadcasters, regulators, and citizen‐listener/viewers for years to come as it has in the past. The Journal has published numerous articles on this question, such as FCC Commissioner Ford's “The Fairness Doctrine” in the Winter 1963–64 issue. The following remarks, by a broadcaster whose ideas definitely do not coincide with Commissioner Ford's, were originally prepared for the 1964 NAB Fall Regional Conference in Los Angeles. Rex Howell has spent his entire adult life in radio and television, and is now President of KREX AM‐FM‐TV, Grand Junction, Colorado. During most of this period he has been fighting for the right to editorialize and for increased access by broadcast newsmen to courtrooms and other public proceedings. He has been a member of the APBE Board of Directors, and currently ...
DRAINAGE OF PAVEMENTS UNDER NONUNIFORM RAINFALL

A desk-top method is presented to predict the maximum runoff from pavement-gutter systems produced by temporally nonuniform rainfalls. The method is founded on the kinematic-wave solutions of the pavement and gutter flows. The governing equations are written in terms of three physically based nondimensional parameters. For a specified time pattern of rainfall intensity, the constant values of these parameters imply hydraulic similarity of an infinite number of different pavement-flow-gutter-flow situations. An implicit finite-difference technique is employed to solve the governing equations. The mathematical model is verified using a set of existing experimental data. Based on the concept of hydraulic similarity, a group of charts is developed to predict peak gutter-flow rates that are produced by triangular and Huff first-quartile-point rainfalls. The use of these charts is shown by a practical applications section. Similar charts can be developed for other types of rainfall hyetographs.
Utilization of geometric symmetries in 'edge' based boundary integral eddy current solutions

An efficient implementation of this simple layer integral equation procedure for eddy current computation is presented. Vector boundary elements of quadrilateral and trilateral shapes are constructed. These elements, based on facet finite elements, have unknowns associated with edges, and are useful for modeling vector surface currents. The simple layer integral procedure is then discretized via the method of moments. A procedure is implemented to fully utilize geometric symmetries of the interior domain. The symmetry planes are not necessarily perfect electric or magnetic conductors. Using symmetric vector shape functions and introducing symmetric components allows the coefficient matrix to be symmetrized and then reduced to smaller systems. This procedure is used to compute the eddy current profile of a conducting plate with a small slot. >
Density Reduction: A Mechanism for Amorphization at High Ion Doses

At cryogenic temperatures, the accumulation of vacancy-interstitial pairs in Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} from atomic displacements associated with ion implantation produces amorphization. At room temperature, these pairs recombine, and amorphization occurs only at high doses. X-ray reflectivity measurements show that amorphization of the surface of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} implanted at room temperature with 160 keV Cr{sup +} ions is preceded by a progressive reduction in near-surface density. Monte Carlo simulations show that this density reduction can be accounted for by high-energy-transfer collisions which knock atoms deep into the target, leaving widely separated vacancies and interstitials, which do not recombine. Electron microscopy shows that at least some of these vacancies condense into voids. We propose that this reduction in near-surface density can lead to amorphization at high doses. We present simple approximations for the density reduction expected for different ions and targets.
Restraint use in acute and critical care settings: changing practice.

Reduction of physical restraint use in the acute and critical care setting is a complex issue. Ethical considerations, regulatory and professional standards, legal liability concerns, healthcare team members’ knowledge and attitudes, and unit culture and practice traditions must all be considered. R
Pupil engagement in learning tasks: A fertile area for research in science teaching

This synthesis of research in academic engagement addresses studies in several academic areas. A general relationship of teacher performance and student engagement in learning tasks is noted. More importantly, a substantial relationship between degree of engagement and achievement has been reported in numerous studies. The paucity of engagement studies in science is surprising given the variation in engagement rates in science classrooms. Numerous research questions are suggested for science education researchers. A particularly fertile area for investigation is the categorization of engagement.
Point-of-Care Diagnostics in Low-Resource Settings and Their Impact on Care in the Age of the Noncommunicable and Chronic Disease Epidemic

The emergence of point-of-care (POC) diagnostics specifically designed for low-resource settings coupled with the rapid increase in need for routine care of patients with chronic diseases should prompt reconsideration of how health care can be delivered most beneficially and cost-effectively in developing countries. Bolstering support for primary care to provide rapid and appropriate integrated acute and chronic care treatment may be a possible solution. POC diagnostics can empower local and primary care providers and enable them to make better clinical decisions. This article explores the opportunity for POC diagnostics to strengthen primary care and chronic disease diagnosis and management in a low-resource setting (LRS) to deliver appropriate, consistent, and integrated care. We analyze the requirements of resource-appropriate chronic disease care, the characteristics of POC diagnostics in LRS versus the developed world, the many roles of diagnostics in the care continuum in LRS, and the process and economics of developing LRS-compatible POC diagnostics.
Image processing and interface for retinal visual prostheses

Controlled electrical stimulation of the retina can result in visual perception in blind patients. In contrast to the over 100,000,000 photoreceptors in a healthy retina, even hundreds of pixels/electrodes of a retinal implant may restore low-resolution vision for unaided mobility and large print reading. We describe the real-time application of image processing techniques, such as contrast and brightness enhancement, grayscale histogram equalization, edge detection, and grayscale reduction, to enhance the visual perception provided by a retinal implant. We discuss schemes for reducing the amount of data transmitted wirelessly to the implant, as well as the interface between the external imaging unit and retinal implant.
Campylobacter Species and Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Since the eradication of polio in most parts of the world, Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) has become the most common cause of acute flaccid paralysis. GBS is an autoimmune disorder of the peripheral nervous system characterized by weakness, usually symmetrical, evolving over a period of several days or more. Since laboratories began to isolate Campylobacter species from stool specimens some 20 years ago, there have been many reports of GBS following Campylobacter infection. Only during the past few years has strong evidence supporting this association developed. Campylobacter infection is now known as the single most identifiable antecedent infection associated with the development of GBS. Campylobacter is thought to cause this autoimmune disease through a mechanism called molecular mimicry, whereby Campylobacter contains ganglioside-like epitopes in the lipopolysaccharide moiety that elicit autoantibodies reacting with peripheral nerve targets. Campylobacter is associated with several pathologic forms of GBS, including the demyelinating (acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy) and axonal (acute motor axonal neuropathy) forms. Different strains of Campylobacter as well as host factors likely play an important role in determining who develops GBS as well as the nerve targets for the host immune attack of peripheral nerves. The purpose of this review is to summarize our current knowledge about the clinical, epidemiological, pathogenetic, and laboratory aspects of campylobacter-associated GBS.