cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Redefining the fluoroscopic landmarks for common femoral arterial puncture during cardiac catheterization: Femoral angiogram and computed tomography angiogram (FACT) study of common femoral artery anatomy

Background The mid-femoral head (F50 ) is a common fluoroscopic target for common femoral artery (CFA) puncture during cardiac catheterization. Punctures above the inguinal ligament (marking the proximal end of CFA) increase the risk of retroperitoneal hemorrhage and are classified as high punctures. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 114 CT angiograms for the anatomic relationship of the inguinal ligament to the femoral head (FH) and inferior epigastric artery (IEA). We analyzed 114 CT angiograms and 500 femoral angiograms, for the relation of the mid-point of CFA to F50 and F75 (the junction of upper 3/4th and lower 1/4th of FH). Results The proximal third of femoral head (F33 ) (-1.4 mm) and IEA nadir (-2.9 mm) were closer approximations to the inguinal ligament than the IEA origin (-12.8 mm) or cranial end of FH (-15.2 mm). The inguinal ligament correlated better with the IEA nadir than F33 (R2 = 0.49 vs. 0.001). F75 was a closer approximation for the mid-point of the CFA than F50 (0.3 mm vs. -9.2 mm). Using F75 as the target for CFA puncture carried the lowest risk for non-CFA punctures (18.6%), while using F50 had a 41.2% risk for non-CFA punctures. F75 had an increased risk for low punctures (14.2%) but F50 had a far higher risk for high punctures (36.6%). Conclusions The nadir of IEA is the best landmark for identifying the inguinal ligament (the proximal end of CFA) and defining high punctures. F75 is a more accurate target for successful CFA puncture than F50.
Illness Perceptions in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Testing Leventhal's Self-regulatory Model.

BACKGROUND Leventhal's Self-regulatory Model proposes that somatic characteristics of a health threat (e.g., symptom severity), and prior experience with the threat (e.g., unsuccessful treatment), are determinants of illness perceptions. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is appropriate for test of these postulates, having three phases differing in symptom severity and prior treatment experiences: indolent disease requiring no treatment (active surveillance; AS), symptomatic disease requiring a first treatment (FT), and highly symptomatic disease in those who have relapsed and/or failed to respond to prior treatments (relapsed/refractory; RR). PURPOSE To test symptom severity and prior treatment experiences as determinants of illness perceptions, illness perceptions were characterized and contrasted between CLL groups. METHODS Three hundred and thirty CLL patients (AS, n = 100; FT, n = 78; RR, n = 152) provided illness perception data on one occasion during a surveillance visit (AS) or prior to beginning treatment (FT, RR). RESULTS Analysis of variance with planned comparisons revealed that consequences, identity, and concern were least favorable among RR patients, followed by FT, then AS (ps < .01). AS patients endorsed the lowest levels of coherence (ps < .01), and the most chronic illness timeline (ps < .01). FT patients endorsed the highest levels of personal and treatment control (ps < .01). CONCLUSIONS Data provide preliminary empirical support for Self-regulatory Model postulates that symptom severity and prior disease experiences influence illness perceptions. Unique knowledge needs for AS patients and elevated psychological/physical symptoms for later-stage CLL patients may warrant clinical attention.
Improving Hurricane Analyses and Predictions with TCI, IFEX Field Campaign Observations, and CIMSS AMVs Using the Advanced Hybrid Data Assimilation System for HWRF. Part I: What is Missing to Capture the Rapid Intensification of Hurricane Patricia (2015) when HWRF is already Initialized with a More Realistic Analysis?

AbstractAssimilating inner-core observations collected from recent field campaign programs such as Tropical Cyclone Intensity (TCI) and Intensity Forecasting Experiment (IFEX) together with the enh...
Consolidation in the North American Organic Food Processing Sector, 1997 to 2007.

Significant structural changes have accompanied the phase-in of a national organic standard in the United States over the last decade. The organic processing sector was particularly amenable to change due to its location downstream from production, where concentrations of capital encounter fewer biological barriers, and currently benefit from greater economies of scale. Consolidation of this emerging industry in the US and neighboring Canada is characterized visually using information graphics. These graphics provide a broad overview of the current industry structure by depicting the processes of horizontal integration and concentric diversification. Horizontal integration has occurred through acquisitions and strategic alliances, although these transactions are often hidden from consumers through ‘stealth’ ownership. Concentric diversification has occurred through the introduction of organic versions of mainstream brands, and the introduction of private label organics. These trends are expected to continue, and strongly support the conventionalization thesis as it applies to off-farm segments of the organic food industry.
ATG5 cancer mutations and alternative mRNA splicing reveal a conjugation switch that regulates ATG12-ATG5-ATG16L1 complex assembly and autophagy

Autophagy is critical for maintaining cellular homeostasis during times of stress, and is thought to play important roles in both tumorigenesis and tumor cell survival. Formation of autophagosomes, which mediate delivery of cytoplasmic cargo to lysosomes, requires multiple autophagy-related (ATG) protein complexes, including the ATG12-ATG5-ATG16L1 complex. Herein, we report that a molecular ATG5 "conjugation switch", comprised of competing ATG12 and ubiquitin conjugation reactions, integrates ATG12-ATG5-ATG16L1 complex assembly with protein quality control of its otherwise highly unstable subunits. This conjugation switch is tightly regulated by ATG16L1, which binds to free ATG5 and mutually protects both proteins from ubiquitin conjugation and proteasomal degradation, thereby instead promoting the irreversible conjugation of ATG12 to ATG5. The resulting ATG12-ATG5 conjugate, in turn, displays enhanced affinity for ATG16L1 and thus fully stabilizes the ATG12-ATG5-ATG16L1 complex. Most importantly, we find in multiple tumor types that ATG5 somatic mutations and alternative mRNA splicing specifically disrupt the ATG16L1-binding pocket in ATG5 and impair the essential ATG5-ATG16L1 interactions that are initially required for ATG12-ATG5 conjugation. Finally, we provide evidence that ATG16L2, which is overexpressed in several cancers relative to ATG16L1, hijacks the conjugation switch by competing with ATG16L1 for binding to ATG5. While ATG16L2 stabilizes ATG5 and enables ATG12-ATG5 conjugation, this endogenous dominant-negative inhibitor simultaneously displaces ATG16L1, resulting in its proteasomal degradation and a block in autophagy. Thus, collectively, our findings provide novel insights into ATG12-ATG5-ATG16L1 complex assembly and reveal multiple mechanisms wherein dysregulation of the ATG5 conjugation switch inhibits autophagy.
Endometrial thickness as a predictor of ectopic pregnancy in 1125 in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer cycles: a matched case-control study.

The ectopic pregnancy (EP) rate after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) is higher than after spontaneous conception. The reason for the increased risk of EP is not clear. We aimed to determine the risk factors associated with EP in patients undergoing IVF-ET. This was a 1:4 matched case–control study that enrolled 225 EP patients and 900 matched intrauterine pregnancy patients from the ART center of Northwest Women’s and Children’s Hospital from January 2014 to April 2018. Conditional logistic regression was used to analyze the association between risk factors and EP, and a receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve was generated for the predictors of EP. Our findings showed that tubal factor (OR 1.61; 95% CI 1.12–2.31) and pelvic surgery other than cesarean section (OR 2.04; 95% CI 1.26–3.29) were associated with a higher risk of EP (p = 0.001). An endometrial thickness > 12 mm prior to embryo transfer (OR 0.27; 95% CI 0.13–0.56) and the number of transferable embryos (OR 0.71; 95% CI 0.65–0.78) were protective factors against EP (p 12 mm is a strong protective factor against ectopic pregnancy. Attention should be paid to women with specific characteristics who have undergone IVF-ET.
Mixed Methods? Do They Really Work? A Commentary

In this short commentary, I comment on the state and popularity of mixed methods in social sciences in recent decades. While quantitative and qualitative methods are considered complementary, I question the use of mixed methods by scholars without deeper reflections on the epistemological and methodological foundations of these two methods. My contention is that researchers cannot simply combine qualitative and quantitative methods without explicating how they reconcile and negotiate their different foundations. These two methods are not just tools. The act of mixing them without reflections is simply not sufficient. Reconciling and reflecting upon the foundational differences between these two methods would be an essential step. Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";}
Development and Validation of a Next-Generation Sequencing Panel for Syndromic and Nonsyndromic Hearing Loss.

BACKGROUND Deafness and hearing loss are common conditions that can be seen independently or as part of a syndrome and are often mediated by genetic causes. We sought to develop and validate a hereditary hearing loss panel (HHLP) to detect single nucleotide variants (SNVs), insertions and deletions (indels), and copy number variants (CNVs) in 166 genes related to nonsyndromic and syndromic hearing loss. METHODS We developed a custom-capture next-generation sequencing (NGS) reagent to detect all coding regions, ±10 flanking bp, for the 166 genes related to nonsyndromic and syndromic hearing loss. Our validation consisted of testing 52 samples to establish accuracy, reproducibility, and analytical sensitivity. In addition to NGS, supplementary methods, including multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification, long-range PCR, and Sanger sequencing, were used to ensure coverage of regions that had high complexity or homology. RESULTS We observed 100% positive and negative percentage agreement for detection of SNVs (n = 362), small indels (1-22 bp, n = 25), and CNVs (gains, n = 8; losses, n = 17). Finally, we showed that this assay was able to detect variants with a variant allele frequency ≥20% for SNVs and indels and ≥30% to 35% for CNVs. CONCLUSIONS We validated an HHLP that detects SNVs, indels, and CNVs in 166 genes related to syndromic and nonsyndromic hearing loss. The results of this assay can be utilized to confirm a diagnosis of hearing loss and related syndromic disorders associated with known causal genes.
Effects of a health management intervention program using WeChat platform in a hypertensive population aged under 45

Objective This study aims to determine the effects of a health management program based on WeChat platform on a hypertensive population aged under 45. Methods 1 128 hypertensive patients aged between 18 and 44 received a health examination from January 2016 to December 2016 and they were divided into intervention （n=561） and control （n=567）groups. The two groups were followed up after 1 year, and initially both the intervention group （n=521） and the control group （n=510） completed a lifestyle questionnaire, and their systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C)，body mass index (BMI), and pulse wave velocity (PWV) were recorded. For the control group, lifestyle health management programs were conducted. For the intervention group, a learning platform was arranged on WeChat, which uploaded questionnaires, and provided medical information to create electronic health records. The group gained hypertension-related knowledge, dynamically monitored blood pressure and lifestyle, and participated in interactive question-and-answer sessions. Both groups were followed up after a year, and their systolic pressure, diastolic blood pressure, TG, TC, HDL-C, LDL-C，BMI, and PWV levels were measured. The changes in their daily exercise time, vegetable intake, sleep time, weekly blood pressure reading, smoking, and salt intake were recorded. Results The mean age of the WeChat intervention group was 33.1 (+10.6) years, which had 319 males (61.2%), and the mean age of the control group was 32.8 (+10.2) years, with 307 males (60.1%). No difference of clinical data was found between the two groups at baseline. The systolic and diastolic blood pressure of the intervention group, （142.4±10.4） mmHg （1 mmHg=0.133 kPa） （85.1±8.2） mmHg was significantly lower than that of the control group （149.6±10.1）mmHg, （92.3±9.1） mmHg （t=3.67, 2.33, P 0.05）. Conclusions The health management program based on WeChat platform can improve diet, exercise compliance, and lifestyle, and effectively reduce blood pressure and blood lipid levels for a hypertensive population under the age of 45.
Testosterone treatment for transgender (trans) men

Abstract The mainstay of medical therapy for transgender men is testosterone treatment that induces hematological, hormonal, metabolic, physical, psychological, and reproductive/sexual changes. Serum concentrations of testosterone, hemoglobin, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides increase while concentrations of estrogen, gonadotropins, prolactin, and HDL-cholesterol decrease. Physical changes include body and facial hair growth, acne, an increase in muscle mass, a decrease in fat mass, and changes to the vocal cords resulting in a lower voice. Gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression, and perceived stress usually improve. Reproductive/sexual changes consist of amenorrhea and increased sexual desire. While many formulations of testosterone can be used, there is limited data comparing the effects of the different methods of delivery. Optimal serum levels of testosterone and the long-term effects of treatment have not been well established. Further research is needed on older transgender men and on individuals of different races and ethnicities outside of Europe and North America.
Experimental Models for Fungal Keratitis: An Overview of Principles and Protocols

Fungal keratitis is a potentially blinding infection of the cornea that afflicts diverse patient populations worldwide. The development of better treatment options requires a more thorough understanding of both microbial and host determinants of pathology, and a spectrum of experimental models have been developed toward this end. In vivo (animal) models most accurately capture complex pathological outcomes, but protocols may be challenging to implement and vary widely across research groups. In vitro models allow for the molecular dissection of specific host cell-fungal interactions, but they do so without the appropriate environmental/structural context; ex vivo (corneal explant) models provide the benefits of intact corneal tissue, but they do not provide certain pathological features, such as inflammation. In this review, we endeavor to outline the key features of these experimental models as well as describe key technical variations that could impact study design and outcomes.
Airway Management in out of the Operating Room Environments

This review explores the expanding considerations and techniques for airway management of patients in remote settings outside of the operating room (OR). These environments bring various challenges for the patient as well as practitioner and it is essential to proceed safely. New developments in patient monitoring, oxygen delivery, and airway adjuncts have provided solutions to the many challenges involved in management of the airway in remote environments. These devices and techniques may have had their origins in the operating room but are uniquely applicable to outside locations. Currently, few studies are available but clinical experience is leading the way. Diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in remote locations constitute a significant portion of anesthetic care that is required increasingly for patient management. Given the frequent number of complex patients involved, it becomes necessary to employ the safest and most efficient techniques to accomplish these goals. The goals for airway management continue to be oxygenation and ventilation with the protection from gastric aspiration when at risk.
Cascaded Third Harmonic Generation in Dielectric Metasurfaces

In this work, we investigate cascaded third harmonic generation in a dielectric metasurface by exploiting high quality factor Fano resonances obtained using broken symmetry unit cells.
The Tubular Striatum.

In the mid-19th century, a misconception was born, which understandably persists in the minds of many neuroscientists today. The eminent scientist Albert von Kolliker named a tubular-shaped piece of tissue found in the brains of all mammals studied to date, the tuberculum olfactorium - or what is commonly known as the olfactory tubercle (OT). In doing this, Kolliker ascribed "olfactory" functions and an "olfactory" purpose to the OT. The OT has since been classified as one of several olfactory cortices. However, further investigations of OT functions, especially over the last decade, have provided evidence for roles of the OT beyond olfaction, including in learning, motivated behaviors, and even seeking of psychoactive drugs. Indeed, research to date suggests caution in assigning the OT with a purely olfactory role. Here, I build on previous research to synthesize a model wherein the OT, which may be more appropriately termed the "tubular striatum" (TuS), is a neural system in which sensory information derived from an organism's experiences is integrated with information about its motivational states to guide affective and behavioral responses.
A Dual Mesh Finite Domain Method for Steady-State Convection–Diffusion Problems

Abstract The dual-mesh finite domain method (DMFDM) proposed by Reddy (2019)[1] is used to study the steady-state convection–diffusion problems in 1D and 2D. In the DMFDM, one mesh of finite elements for the approximation of the domain and primary variables and another mesh of control domains, which also covers the whole domain, to satisfy the governing differential equations are used. The approach is distinguished from both the finite element method and the finite volume method, although the method shares the desirable features of both methods. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the methodology and accuracy compared to the finite element and finite volume solutions.
Applying Environmental Context to Rehabilitation Research Using Geographic Information Systems and Global Positioning Systems Geospatial Technologies.

Background The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health includes important considerations of environmental context in understanding disability, but the environmental impact is often difficult to measure. Purpose Demonstrates the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) in rehabilitation research in assessing accessibility and participation; describes how to use these methods, and presents several considerations in using GIS and GPS in research. Method Using methods from public health and medical geography, this article describes how to apply GIS and GPS technologies to rehabilitation research to measure community participation and accessibility to resources. Findings Directions for using ArcGIS functions and case examples joining these mapping technologies with rehabilitation measures are provided. Conclusions Together with traditional measures, these technologies may provide rehabilitation researchers a more comprehensive approach to assessing accessibility and participation.
Manganese transport by Streptococcus sanguinis in acidic conditions and its impact on growth in vitro and in vivo

Streptococcus sanguinis is an oral commensal and an etiological agent of infective endocarditis. Previous studies have identified the SsaACB manganese transporter as essential for endocarditis virulence; however, the significance of SsaACB in the oral environment has never been examined. Here we report that a ΔssaACB mutant of strain SK36 exhibits reduced growth and manganese uptake under acidic conditions. Further studies revealed that these deficits resulted from the decreased activity of TmpA, shown in the accompanying paper to function as a ZIP-family manganese transporter. Transcriptomic analysis of fermentor-grown cultures of SK36 WT and ΔssaACB strains identified pH-dependent changes related to carbon catabolite repression in both strains, though their magnitude was generally greater in the mutant. In strain VMC66, which possesses a MntH transporter, loss of SsaACB did not significantly alter growth or cellular manganese levels under the same conditions. Interestingly, there were only modest differences between SK36 and its ΔssaACB mutant in competition with Streptococcus mutans in vitro and in a murine oral colonization model. Our results suggest that the heterogeneity of the oral environment may provide a rationale for the variety of manganese transporters found in S. sanguinis and point to strategies for enhancing the safety of oral probiotics.
A Conceptual Overview

Using the Btonfenbrenner (1979) social ecoIogical hierarchy, this overview considers developmental, social, ethical, and legal issues relating to the prevention, management, and control of physical assaultiveness.
Device Middleware for Mobile Applications

The paper discusses implemention of high-performance computing at Contra Costa College, a community college near Berkeley. We established a two-year vocational-training program for future Linux cluster administrators. Unfortunately, CCC has temporarily suspended its HPC degree program owing to a lack of students. The dot-com bust caused a downturn in all high-tech fields, particularly in Northern California. Further complicating matters is the lack of a consistent job title for cluster administrators, which makes it hard to point people to available jobs. Consequently, students don't know how bright a future the HPC job field has, and only a few students seek HPC training.
ADAR gene family and A-to-I RNA editing: diverse roles in posttranscriptional gene regulation

Publisher Summary The biological process of A-to-I RNA editing mediated by ADAR is discussed with new directions on potentially novel targets, including the widely expressed Alu retrotransposable elements found in noncoding regions of mRNA. Many events take place after the de novo synthesis of an RNA transcript, leading to alterations from its gene-encoded origin. In addition to posttranslational modification, which occurs after the production of the polypeptide chain, RNA can be modified in several ways as to vary the amino acid sequence before it is even translated. Once transcription has commenced, the newly formed pre-mRNA must be processed by several mechanisms that operate posttranscriptionally. The RNA itself plays a role in this regulatory process by forming an assortment of secondary structures. These complex elements in part are formed by the RNA sequence itself producing double-stranded (ds) RNA, creating a configuration of bulges, stem loops, and hairpins.
Artificial microRNA (amiRNA) induced gene silencing in alfalfa (Medicago sativa)

Gene silencing is a powerful technique that allows the study of the function of specific genes by selectively reducing their transcription. Several different approaches can be used, however they al...
Biosynthesis of collagen and other matrix proteins by articular cartilage in experimental osteoarthrosis

Osteoarthrosis was induced in one knee joint of dogs by an established surgical procedure. Changes in the articular cartilage in the biosynthesis of collagen and other proteins were sought by radiochemical labelling in vivo, with the following findings. (1) Collagen synthesis was stimulated in all cartilage surfaces of the experimental joints at 2, 8 and 24 weeks after surgery. Systemic labelling with [3H]proline showed that over 10 times more collagen was being deposited per dry weight of experimental cartilage compared with control cartilage in the unoperated knee. (2) Type-II collagen was the radiolabelled product in all samples of experimental cartilage ranging in quality from undamaged to overtly fibrillated, and was the only collagen detected chemically in the matrix of osteoarthrotic cartilage from either dog or human joints. (3) Hydroxylysine glycosylation was examined in the newly synthesized cartilage collagen by labelling dog joints in vivo with [3H]lysine. In experimental knees the new collagen was less glycosylated than in controls. However, no difference in glycosylation of the total collagen in the tissues was observed by chemical analysis. (4) Over half the protein-bound tritium was extracted by 4 M-guanidinium chloride from control cartilage labelled with [3H]proline, compared with one-quarter or less from experimental cartilage. Two-thirds of the extracted tritium separated in the upper fraction on density-gradient centrifugation in CsCl under associative conditions. Much of this ran with a single protein band on sodium dodecyl sulphate/polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis under reducing conditions. The identity of this protein was unknown, although it resembled serum albumin in mobility afte disulphide-bond cleavage.
Contextual Factors Predict Patterns of Change in Functioning over 10 Years Among Adolescents and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders

In the present study, we jointly employ and integrate variable- and person-centered approaches to identify groups of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) who have similar profiles of change over a period of 10 years across three critical domains of functioning: maladaptive behaviors, autism symptoms, and daily living skills. Two distinct developmental profiles were identified. Above and beyond demographic and individual characteristics, aspects of both the educational context (level of inclusion) and the family context (maternal positivity) were found to predict the likelihood of following a positive pattern of change. Implementing evidence-based interventions that target the school and home environments during childhood and adolescence may have lasting impacts on functioning into adulthood for individuals with ASD.
High Blood Pressure, Hypertension, and High Pulse Pressure Are Associated with Poorer Cognitive Function in Persons Aged 60 and Older: The Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Stroke and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) prevalence increase at comparable rates with advancing age. Hypertension is increasingly recognized as a risk factor for stroke and AD.1–5 Ischemic stroke, silent ischemic white-matter lesions, and vascular dementia are sequelae of hypertension that increase with higher blood pressure and may contribute to risk of AD. Thus, hypertension may have a causal role in cognitive decline (vascular cognitive impairment) and AD.6,7 A few longitudinal studies have emphasized the connection between high blood pressure in midlife and dementia in late life.6,7 A recent work reported an association between systolic blood pressure (SBP) and pulse pressure (PP) and medial temporal lobe atrophy, a hallmark of AD, especially when coexisting with white matter changes, in individuals with late-onset dementia.8 These reports suggest that hypertension not only results in multi-infarct dementia, but may also influence the development of AD. Even if hypertension results in only a moderately greater risk of AD or overall dementia, better treatment and optimization of blood pressure may have a significant public health effect in primary prevention of AD or other dementia.2 In spite of increasing evidence showing an association between high blood pressure and cognitive dysfunction and specifically greater risk of AD, the recommended blood pressure for optimal cognitive performance has yet to be quantified. Because cerebral hypertension can cause low cerebral perfusion, treatment of blood pressure may prevent arterial stiffness and improve cerebral perfusion and cognitive function. Conversely, excessive blood pressure reduction, especially in elderly people, may cause cerebral hypoperfusion and poorer cognitive function. Given the high prevalence of hypertension in the United States, substantial cognitive gains might be realized from the optimization of blood pressure. Therefore, identification of optimal blood pressure for best cognitive performance and reduction in risk of AD is of considerable scientific, clinical, and public health interest. Using data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III), the hypotheses that normal blood pressure (defined as systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≤119 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≤79 mmHg) would be associated with best cognitive performance; age-related increase in SBP, DBP, hypertension, and PP would be associated with lower cognitive performance; and medication and lifestyle alterations would be associated with the attenuation of hypertension-related cognitive loss were tested.
Social work's future: triumph or disaster?

this article are paraphrased from working papers produced by Christ opher Dede and Gail Washchuck, who served as consultants to the Futures Commission and who, at the time that group began its work, were on the fac ulty of the University of Houston, Houston, Texas. It is not possible to make an accusional Futures Commission consisting rate prediction concerning employment of fifteen participating members and conditions in the human services during thirty-one corresponding members, the next twenty years without dealing The commission, under this authors with national and international condichairmanship, has had meetings and is tions that are likely to exist in those now producing a document that will be years. Failure to deal with the changes circulated to NASW chapters through created by the interrelationship of out the nation for discussion and reac trends and the impact of events yet to tion. Consensus will be sought con come has, in the past, led to substantial cerning which actions are appropriate expenditures on studies predicting perfor social workers to take in response sonnel needs that never emerged. Into certain projected events. A moni effective studies of this kind demontoring plan will be recommended so strate that mere statistical extrapolathat the profession can be proactive tion is a simplistic and essentially nonrather than merely reactive, productive method of predicting. Today, most large organizations concerned with the future employ FOUR SCENARIOS
LOCALIZATION OF ANGIOTENSIN II RESPONSES IN THE TROUT CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM

The renin/angiotensin system (RAS) is a tonic anti-drop regulator of arterial blood pressure in many teleosts. In trout, angiotensin II (ANG II) has no direct constrictor effect on large arteries or veins and the identity of specific cardiovascular pressor effectors is unknown. Potential targets of angiotensin activation were examined in the present experiments using perfused organs and isolated tissues from the rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss. Perfused gill (arches 2 and 3), perfused skeletal muscle-kidney (via the dorsal aorta; PDA) and perfused splanchnic (via the celiacomesenteric; PCM) circulations vasoconstrict in response to salmonid ANG II in a dose-dependent manner. ANG II was significantly (Pf0.05) more potent in the PCM than in the PDA, and both preparations were more responsive than the gills: pD2=8.0p0.20 (10) for PCM; pD2=7.5p0.07 (13) for PDA; pD2=6.9 p0.21 (8) for gill arch 3; pD2=6.7p0.23 (8) for gill arch 2; mean p s.e.m. (N), respectively. Salmonid angiotensin I (ANG I) also produced a dose-dependent constriction of the PDA and PCM. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activated nearly 100 % of ANG I to ANG II in a single pass through the PDA, whereas PCM conversion was estimated to be less than 10 %. Inhibitors of adrenergic constriction partially prevented ANG II responses in the PDA but did not affect PCM responses. ANG II did not affect paced rings of ventricular muscle in the presence of high or low [Ca2+] or epinephrine concentrations, nor did it have any inotropic or chronotropic effects in the in situ perfused heart. Red blood cell swelling was unaffected by ANG II. Similarly, the effects of ANG II on gut, urinary bladder and gall bladder smooth muscle were negligible or non-existent; thus, an increase in splanchnic resistance due to extravascular compression can be discounted. These results indicate that, in trout, the systemic microcirculation is the major cardiovascular effector of angiotensin-mediated pressor responses. In addition, the RAS has little direct effect on non-vascular smooth muscle or the heart. From an evolutionary perspective, the initial site of direct systemic RAS action appears to be the vascular microcirculation.
Caution in leaping from functional imaging to functional neurosurgery.

Illes and[3pc] Racine raise a number of challenging and interesting points about emerging functional neuroimaging technologies. A recurring theme throughout their article deals with the “proper int...
Beyond clergy: congregations' sponsorship of social services for people with mental disorders.

This study examines U.S. congregations’ sponsorship of social services for people with mental disorders using data from a nationally representative sample of congregations. The analysis finds that 8.0 % of congregations sponsor social services for people with mental disorders, and that congregations’ religious tradition influences the likelihood that they sponsor them. Most of the services assist people with substance use disorders. Coupled with findings from previous studies, we conclude that most of the support and care people with mental disorders receive from congregations comes from clergy rather than formal social services. Organizations interested in partnering with congregations to provide social services for people with mental disorders should take note of the findings about the programs already underway and their patterning in order to accurately pinpoint nexuses of congregational receptivity.
Thyrotropin Secretion in Rats after Hypothalamic Electrical Stimulation or Injection of Synthetic TSH-Releasing Factor

Plasma thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, as measured by radioimmunoassay, begin to rise within 5 minutes after initiation of electrical stimulation of the medial-basal hypothalamus, become significantly elevated at 10 minutes, and reach a peak at 10 to 25 minutes. Intravenous administration of synthetic thyrotropin-releasing factor induces a marked rise in plasma thyroidstimulating hormone which is maximal within 5 minutes after administration. These data are interpreted to indicate that there are neuronal structures within the medial-basal hypothalamus which release preformed thyrotropin-releasing factor. The claim (based on bioassay data) that pyroglutamyl-histidyl-proline amide is a potent thyrotropin-releasing factor has also been confirmed by using a highly specific immunoassay system.
The σ receptor ligand 1,3-di(2-tolyl)guanidine is anticonvulsant in the rat prepiriform cortex

Abstract Unilateral focal injection of 1,3-di(2-tolyl)guanidine (DTG) caused a dose-dependent and potent (ED 50 = 5.25 nmol, 95% confidence limits 1.1 to 25.0 nmol) suppression of generalized motor seizures induced by (−)-bicuculline methiodide in the rat prepiriform cortex. These findings indicate that DTG is equipotent to the noncompetitive NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 ((+)-5-methyl-10,11-dihydro-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5,10-imine hydrogen maleate) as an anticonvulsant. This potent pharmacological effect of DTG distinguishes it from two other prototypic σ ligands, haloperidol and (+)-pentazocine, which are ineffective as anticonvulsants. Pretreatment of animals with haloperidol failed to block the anticonvulsant effects of DTG. These data therefore document a novel anticonvulsant action of DTG in vivo by a mechanism that does not involve σ receptors.
Low friction and fault weakening revealed by rising sensitivity of tremor to tidal stress

At subduction zones, deep parts of the fault can slip slowly, generating tremor. Analysis of tremor in Cascadia reveals increasing sensitivity of slip to tidal stresses over several days, implying that the fault is weak, and weakens as it slips.
A Conserved Cys-loop Receptor Aspartate Residue in the M3-M4 Cytoplasmic Loop Is Required for GABAA Receptor Assembly

Members of the Cys-loop superfamily of ligand-gated ion channels, which mediate fast synaptic transmission in the nervous system, are assembled as heteropentamers from a large repertoire of neuronal subunits. Although several motifs in subunit N-terminal domains are known to be important for subunit assembly, increasing evidence points toward a role for C-terminal domains. Using a combination of flow cytometry, patch clamp recording, endoglycosidase H digestion, brefeldin A treatment, and analytic centrifugation, we identified a highly conserved aspartate residue at the boundary of the M3-M4 loop and the M4 domain that was required for binary and ternary γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor surface expression. Mutation of this residue caused mutant and partnering subunits to be retained in the endoplasmic reticulum, reflecting impaired forward trafficking. Interestingly although mutant and partnering wild type subunits could be coimmunoprecipitated, analytic centrifugation studies demonstrated decreased formation of pentameric receptors, suggesting that this residue played an important role in later steps of subunit oligomerization. We thus conclude that C-terminal motifs are also important determinants of Cys-loop receptor assembly.
The feminist critique of Willa Cather's fiction: A review essay

(1993). The feminist critique of Willa Cather's fiction: A review essay. Women's Studies: Vol. 22, No. 3, pp. 263-279.
The accuracy of alternative stochastic models of participation in group discussion

Four related models of participation in group discussion are presented and compared in the accuracy with which they predict proportional participation, mean run length, mean recurrence time and the variances of runs and recurrences. For some quantities, such as proportional participation and mean run length, the most restricted model does virtually as well as the least restricted model; for other quantities it does not. None of the models does a good job of predicting variances of runs or recurrences.
Secondary Analysis and Science Education Research.

This essay argues that the secondary analysis of existing data sets provides an important opportunity for researchers concerned with science education. The traditional arguments for the secondary analysis of large data sets-quality, costs, and the “science” of multiple analyses of the same data-are reviewed. The increasing number and quality of databases available, the introduction of new statistical technologies, and the severe reduction of federal support for science education are three new forces fostering secondary analysis in science education. Some cautions for secondary analysts are shared and three model secondary analyses are described. The essay concludes that the forces favoring secondary analysis in science education are increasing and that the completion of some secondary analysis prior to new data collection may become the normative expectation in the science education community.
The multidimensional fundamental theorem of calculus

On compact oriented differentiable manifolds, we define a well behaved Riemann type integral which coincides with the Lebesgue integral on nonnegative functions, and such that the exterior derivative of a differentiable (not necessarily continuously) exterior form is always integrable and the Stokes formula holds.
Do Obesity and/or Stripe Wear Increase Ceramic Liner Fracture Risk? An XFEM Analysis

Background Hypothesized risk factors for fracture of ceramic liners include impingement, edge-loading, and cup malpositioning. These risk factors are similar to those for generation of stripe wear. However, it is unclear whether the biomechanical conditions contributing to stripe wear generation also increase the risk for ceramic liner fracture
Pre-rendered stereoscopic movies for commodity display systems

Immersive stereoscopic display systems built from commodity PCs and equipment are becoming increasingly common. Although such systems are generally used for interactive experiences, it is occasionally useful to instead display stereoscopic movies. This paper discusses a method of creating pre-rendered stereoscopic movies for display with an inexpensive, commodity-based, passive stereoscopic display wall. Playback methods, possible uses, and experiences with early movies are also discussed. We first describe our display system, which uses the spanned desktop mode of video cards with dual video outputs, and a pair of projectors with polarizing filters. We then explain our method for creating stereo pair movies (left/right or top/bottom) using video compositing software. While the concept is straightforward, one difficulty that must be addressed is using an appropriate video codec that can be displayed in full screen, across two displays, at the desired resolution, file size, playback rate, and visual quality. A number of tests were performed to find video codecs that would be suitable for stereo movies based on these attributes. Results are provided in a comparison of multiple codecs that can aid in the successful implementation of this method. Several codecs are recommended, but specific codecs should be chosen based on individual needs.
On the duality principle of conservation laws in finite elastodynamics

Abstract The duality principle of conservation laws which holds in finite elastodynamics is studied using the two-point tensor method. Based on the general Noether's theorem, two basic equations of variational invariance are first derived, which correspond to the action integrals given, respectively, in Lagrangian and Eulerian representations for a finite motion of an elastic body. The dual relations between the conservation laws in both representations are given. The procedure for constructing these dual relations is to apply simultaneously the same infinitesimal transformation of either time or position coordinates as well as field variables to the dual equations of variational invariance, where the position coordinates could be taken either from the reference configuration or from the deformed configuration of the material body. Based on these dual relations it is shown that the conservation equations of material momentum and moment of material momentum possess the same structure as those of physical momentum and physical moment of momentum. Furthermore, three pairs of dual relations between stress tensors and material momentum tensors of various kinds are derived based on the duality principle by using the two-point tensor method. Finally, using the dual integral forms of conservation laws the concepts of dynamic material force and moment acting on defects are introduced and analyzed. The force and moment can be decomposed into a pure kinetic part and a pure deformation part, the latter corresponding to the path-independent integral as suggested in elastostatics.
Abstract 4684: Medical providers perceive a lack of trust in the medical system leads to suboptimal esophageal cancer care for African American patients

Background: Although patient outcomes for esophageal cancer have improved, there remains a reduced survivorship among African Americans compared to Caucasians, possibly due to lower use of surgery in African Americans. While various factors contribute to this disparity, we noted a decreased referral of African American patients to thoracic surgeons in our institution. We hypothesized that interviews with medical providers would provide the reasons behind the barriers that hinder the ability of minority patients to receive optimal care for esophageal cancer. Methods: Providers (n=20) in the Detroit Metro area that treat African Americans with esophageal cancer participated in 30-minute semi-structured interviews to elicit their perspectives regarding barriers and facilitators in their care for this population. The interview inquired into the challenges faced and techniques employed by providers in establishing trust within this population. Interviewed providers included thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, gastroenterologists, and radiation oncologists. Results: Most providers suggested that socioeconomic status, not race, was the primary barrier to accessing adequate cancer care. Within the African American population, 80% of providers reported that mistrust was not an issue in their personal experiences in treating minorities with esophageal cancer, but 95% of providers cited mistrust in the medical system as a contributing factor to unfavorable outcomes. Providers who indicated mistrust in the medical system referred to historical instances that may deter African American patients from trusting the medical system. Many also cited techniques for establishing trust including honesty and patient empowerment. Finally, 3 of 20 respondents referred to direct experiences where patient refusal to participate in clinical trials may have contributed to poorer outcomes. Conclusions: Medical providers believe that mistrust in the medical system is a key barrier for African American patients with esophageal cancer to receive optimal care. Further investigation to elicit patient perspectives should be explored through direct patient surveys. Particular attention should be directed toward how African Americans9 trust of the medical community affects the use of surgical treatment for esophageal cancer. Citation Format: Sumaiya Sarwar, Michael T. Kemp, Sha9Shonda L. Revels, Benjamin M. Eilender, Steven R. Houtschilt, Clifford Akateh, Rishindra M. Reddy. Medical providers perceive a lack of trust in the medical system leads to suboptimal esophageal cancer care for African American patients. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 4684. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-4684
Keeping the "Household Machine" Running: Attendant Nursing and Social Reform in the Progressive Era

Le developpement d'un secteur professionnel de soins preventifs et le point sur une pauvrete urbaine au tournant du XX e siecle redonnent de l'importance aux relations entre soins, devoir feminin et charite
Evaluation of the influence of pit-like defects on the strength of D16T sheet alloy

We have analyzed quantitatively parameters of pit-like defects on the surface of corroded D16 sheet alloy by methods of statistical processing of their metallographic images. The depth of penetration of corrosion damages has been determined by 3D-optical profilometry and by measuring sizes on crosssections. We have determined the relation between the geometric parameters of the corrosion damage of the surface and the decrease in the yield strength of the corroded alloy.