cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MINIATURIZED ANAEROBIC CULTIVATION METHODS FOR RECOVERY OF CLOSTRIDIUM SPOROGENES FROM MEAT

Two new miniaturized methods (sandwiched microtiter plate [SMP] and mini-tube) for recovery of Clostridium sporogenes from food samples were developed and evaluated. One hundred microliter of SFP (Shahidi Ferguson Perfringens) agar and 10 uL of diluted food sample were used in the SMP anaerobic system. The samples were sandwiched between two sterile microtiter plates to create an anaerobic environment. Black colonies in the sandwiched wells were counted as C. sporogenes. In case of mini-tube system, 1 mL of SFP agar (45C) containing diluted food sample was aspirated into a 1.2 mL sterile pipet and allowed to solidify in place. The two ends are sealed to create an anaerobic environment. Black colonies were counted directly through the plastic tube. C. sporogenes was inoculated into ground beef samples for recovery study. The recovery rates in SFP agar, using the SMP and mini-tube method were compared with the double-tube method. Organisms were recovered more in the double-tube than with SMP method and mini-tube method after 24–30 h incubation. However, the final counts at 48 h were similar in all methods from the food samples. These new simple methods have potential use for recovery of Clostridium spp.
Parameter Uncertainty and Simple Yield-per-Recruit Analysis

Abstract Simple yield-per-recruit analysis is a useful stock assessment tool for fishery management. We present a Monte Carlo-based method that incorporates available knowledge of parameter uncertainty on the three-parameter yield-per-recruit model of Beverton and Holt. The uncertainty associated with planning specific changes in yield per recruit due to regulation can thus be examined, conditional on the uncertainty in the model's inputs. The application of the method is illustrated with available information on the Florida fishery for red drum Sciaenops ocellatus. The results clearly show that this method is superior to traditional types of analyses in which only the midpoint and extreme input parameter estimates are used.
Identifying the cause of sediment toxicity in agricultural sediments: The role of pyrethroids and nine seldom-measured hydrophobic pesticides

Few currently used agricultural pesticides are routinely monitored for in the environment. Even if concentrations are known, sediment LC50 values are often lacking for common sediment toxicity testing species. To help fill this data gap, sediments in California’s Central Valley were tested for nine hydrophobic pesticides seldom analyzed: abamectin, diazinon, dicofol, fenpropathrin, indoxacarb, methyl parathion, oxyfluorfen, propargite, and pyraclostrobin. Most were detected, but rarely at concentrations acutely toxic to Hyalella azteca or Chironomus dilutus. Only abamectin, fenpropathrin, and methyl parathion were found at concentrations of potential concern, and only in one or two samples. One-quarter of over 100 samples from agriculture-affected waterways exhibited toxicity, and in three-fourths of the toxic samples, pyrethroids exceeded concentrations expected to cause toxicity. The pyrethroid Bi-fen-thrin in particular, as well as lambda-cyhalothrin, cypermethrin, esfenvalerate, permethrin, and the organophosphate chlorpyrifos, were primarily responsible for the observed toxicity, rather than the more novel analytes, despite the fact that much of the sampling targeted areas of greatest use of the novel pesticides.
A Distributed Routing Algorithm for Networks with Data-Path Services

Many next-generation Internet architectures propose advanced packet processing functions in the data path of the network. Such "services" are typically performed on some nodes along the path of a packet. We present a novel decentralized algorithm that can determine an allocation of services to network nodes. The algorithm can obtain globally optimal solutions for a single service and approximate solutions for two or more services. In our simulation results, we validate the correctness of the algorithm, quantify the quality of the approximations, and compare the results to those of a centralized algorithm. Our results show that the proposed algorithm presents an effective solution to the service placement problem that can be implemented in a realistic network.
Synthesis and evaluation of magnetic thin films

A simple, economic chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method for the coating of substrates with high quality homogeneous thin metal films is developed. The physical and magnetic properties of these magnetic films are evaluated. The results show that the film quality achieved is equivalent to that of other techniques. >
Characteristics of mantle fabrics beneath the south-central United States: Constraints from shear-wave splitting measurements

New shear-wave splitting measurements at permanent broadband seismic stations in the south-central United States reveal the orien- tation and degree of polarization of mantle fabrics, and provide constraints on models for the formation of these fabrics. For stations on the stable North American craton, correspon- dence between observed polarization direc- tion of the fast wave and the trend of Protero- zoic and Paleozoic structures associated with rifts and orogenic belts implies a lithospheric origin for the observed anisotropy. The larg- est splitting times (up to 1.6 s) are observed at stations located in the ocean-continent transi- tion zone, in which the fast directions are par- allel to the Gulf of Mexico continental margin. The parallelism and the geometry of the keel of the craton beneath the study area suggest that asthenospheric fl ow around the keel of the North American craton, lithospheric fab- rics developed during Mesozoic rifting, or a combination of these factors are responsible for the observed anisotropy on stations above the transitional crust.
The Energy Budget of the NCAR Community Climate Model: CCM3*

The energy budget of the latest version of the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Community Climate Model (CCM3) is described. The energy budget at the top of the atmosphere and at the earth’s surface is compared to observational estimates. The annual mean, seasonal mean, and seasonal cycle of the energy budget are evaluated in comparison with earth radiation budget data at the top of the atmosphere and with the NCAR Ocean Model (NCOM) forcing data at the ocean’s surface. Individual terms in the energy budget are discussed. The transient response of the top-of-atmosphere radiative budget to anomalies in tropical sea surface temperature is also presented. In general, the CCM3 is in excellent agreement with ERBE data in terms of annual and seasonal means. The seasonal cycle of the top-of-atmosphere radiation budget is also in good (,10 Wm 22) agreement with ERBE data. At the surface, the model shortwave flux over the oceans is too large compared to data obtained by W. G. Large and colleagues (;20‐30 W m22). It is argued that this bias is related to a model underestimate of shortwave cloud absorption. The major biases in the model are related to the position of deep convection in the tropical Pacific, summertime convective activity over land regions, and the model’s inability to realistically represent marine stratus and stratocumulus clouds. Despite these deficiencies, the model’s implied ocean heat transport is in very good agreement with the explicit ocean heat transport of the NCOM uncoupled simulations. This result is a major reason for the success of the NCAR Climate System Model.
Coach, Are You Ready to Save a Life? Injury and Care Knowledge Check for Sudden Cardiac Arrest.

Coaches need to become familiar with foundational knowledge on sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), while becoming confident, competent, and proficient in their emergency action plans for using CPR and an AED to provide immediate and appropriate care to athletes. This article refers to a 2011 position statement that examines the importance of a coach's proper emergency response to SCA in athletic programs. The purpose of this article is to provide coaches with mock scenarios that will help expose them to SCA events and test their knowledge on how to provide immediate and appropriate care for this potentially catastrophic condition.
Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Induces Fetal Wound Fibrosis

The fetal response to cutaneous injury differs markedly from that of the adult, proceeding with only minimal inflammation, minimal fibroblast proliferation, and only essential collagen deposition. Although the sequence of events in adult wound healing is well defined and thought to be controlled in part by potent polypeptide cytokines, relatively sparse information exists regarding growth factor involvement in fetal wound repair. Thus, the authors sought to examine the effect of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), a putative adult wound healing regulator, on the cellular and extracellular matrix events at a fetal wound site. SILASTIC wound implants containing 0, 1.0, 5.0, or 10.0 ng of human PDGF were placed subcutaneously on the backs of 24-day-gestation fetal rabbits (full term, 31 days) and then harvested after either 1, 3, or 5 days in utero. The specimens underwent standard histological processing and were evaluated in a blinded fashion. Compared with controls, PDGF-treated implants had a marked increase in acute inflammation, fibroblast recruitment, and collagen and hyaluronic acid deposition; these differences appeared to be largely time- and PDGF dose-dependent. Thus, the fetal system is responsive to an adult wound healing mediator, and these data suggest that fetal repair proceeds in the absence of PDGF.
Menschen wie Marionetten

Wenn Menschen etwas vorspielen sollen, legen sie ihre Seele in dieses Spiel hinein. Wir beobachten sie beim Drahtziehen. Mit Marionetten.
Degenerate four-wave mixing in the presence of nonuniform pump wave fronts

We derive the set of coupled equations that describes the process of degenerate four-wave mixing in the presence of spatially nonuniform pump-beam wave fronts. We investigate the influence of phase mismatch between plane-wave pump beams on the efficiency and on the fidelity of the phase-conjugation process, and we furnish, in the near-collinear geometry, the expression of the spatial degree of coherence of the phase-conjugate wave in terms of those of the input signal and of the pump beams.
Small glints as an aid for imaging geosats using an optical Michelson interferometer

A Michelson optical interferometer, such as an upgraded version of the Navy Precision Optical Interferometer, could image geosynchronous satellites (geosats) with resolution of roughly 1 m. Baselines that sample features as small as 0.2 m can be built, however, the fringes would be swamped by the resolved component. Recent observations have shown that small glints known as “glintchen,” aside from being a nuisance, serve to isolate and highlight the signal from these structures. Imaging of geosats during glintchen events can determine the dimensions of these structures and can also play a critical role in determining if these glintchen are due to a previously undetected companion satellite. An approach for performing this glint-aided imaging of geosats and the wealth of detail it would yield, is discussed.
Group-Based Formative Summative Assessment Relates to Improved Student Performance and Satisfaction

In this study, I examined the effectiveness of a group exam review activity on students' long-term retention of concepts and satisfaction. As part of a formative summative assessment activity (FSA; Wininger, 2005), students worked either individually or collaboratively on an exam review activity in the class periods following the 2 unit exams. Students indicated that both activities were useful and enjoyable; however, the group activity had a more positive effect on retention of concepts and student satisfaction. At the 5-week posttest, students who completed the group activity scored 10% higher (on average) than their original exam scores, whereas the students who completed the individual activity scored only 1.2% higher. I discuss these results with regard to a multidimensional FSA framework.
Pediatrician Interview Style and Mothers' Disclosure of Psychosocial Issues

Objective. Primary care pediatricians play an important role in the detection, diagnosis, treatment, and referral of children with mental health problems. Some parents, however, are reluctant to discuss behavioral and emotional symptoms with their child9s pediatrician. Studies of patient-physician communication suggest that specific aspects of pediatrician interview style (asking questions about psychosocial issues, making supportive statements, and listening attentively) increase disclosure of sensitive information. We hypothesized that disclosures of parent and child psychosocial problems would be more likely to occur during visits when pediatricians used these techniques. Design. Cross-sectional analysis of a systematic sample of pediatric primary care visits. Population. Two hundred thirty-four children ages 6 months to 14 years and their mothers or female guardians attending an inner-city hospital-based pediatric primary care clinic; 52 physicians in their second or third year of pediatric residency training. Methods. Visits audiotaped and dialogue coded using the Roter Interactional Analysis System. Independent variables included counts of pediatrician utterances in the following categories: (a) questions about psychosocial issues, (b) statements of support and reassurance, and (c) statements indicating sympathetic and attentive listening. Dependent variables were the disclosure of information about: (a) parental medical or emotional impairment, (b) family disruption, (c) use of physical punishment, and (d) aggressive or overactive child behavior. Results. Use of psychosocially oriented interviewing techniques was associated with a greater likelihood of disclosure for all four of the topic areas studied. Odds ratios for disclosure, adjusted for parental concerns and child age, ranged from 1.09 to 1.22 depending on the interview technique and outcome involved. Positive associations were observed both for topics raised primarily in response to pediatrician questions (family and parent problems) and for topics raised primarily by mothers (behavior and punishment). Conclusions. Three simple communication skills were associated with disclosure of specific concerns relevant to child mental health. Training pediatricians to use these skills would help to better detect and diagnose children9s mental health problems.
Characterization of the high-Z 0.9- to 1.0-MA x-pinch source in the 0.15- to 500-keV region: possible applications of the high-current x-pinch as the sub-keV to 10-keV radiation driver and the 50- to 100-keV backlighter

Experimental results of complex studies of x-ray/EUV radiation from hot dense x-pinch Ti, Fe, Mo, and W plasmas generated by a pulse-powered z-pinch machine with Imax~0.9 ÷ 1.0 MA and a current rise time of 100 ns are overviewed. Structures and spatial dimensions of 0.9-1.0 MA x-pinch sources in a wide energy range of 0.15 - 0.6 keV, 1-10 keV and 10-100 keV are analyzed. Generation of different types of hot spots in high-current multiburst x-pinches are described and a possible explanation of observed effects based on generation of shockwaves in plasmas are discussed. Hard x-ray x-pinch spectra are analyzed. The analysis of time and energy scaling of 0.9 - 1.0 MA x-pinch x-ray/EUV pulses indicate the possible existence of competing mechanisms of the dissipation of the initial discharge x-pinch energy. The future applications of the high current x-pinch as the sub-keV-10 keV radiation driver and the 50 - 100 keV backlighter are discussed.
An Integrated Frequency Response Characterization System With a Digital Interface for Analog Testing

Current and future integrated systems demand cost-effective test solutions. In response to that need, this work presents a very compact mixed-signal test system. It performs the characterization of the magnitude and phase responses over frequency at multiple nodes of an analog circuit. The control inputs and output of this system are digital, enabling the test of the analog components in a system-on-chip (SoC) or system-in-package (SiP) through a low-cost digital automatic test equipment. Robust and area-efficient building blocks are proposed for the implementation of the test system, including a linearized analog multiplier for accurate magnitude and phase detection, a wide tuning range voltage-controlled oscillator and a low-power algorithmic analog-to-digital converter. Their individual design considerations and performance results are presented. A complete prototype in TSMC CMOS 0.35-mum technology employs only 0.3mm2 of area. The operation of this test system is demonstrated by performing frequency response characterizations up to 130 MHz at various nodes of two different fourth-order continuous-time filters integrated in the same chip
Characterizing Liver Hemangiomas on Ferumoxides-Enhanced Dynamic Tl-Weighted Imaging

In a phase III clinical trial undertaken to determine the safety of rapid (2 cc/min) administration of ferumoxides (Feridex IV; Advanced Magnetics Inc, Cambridge, Mass), we examined five liver hemangiomas with dynamic T1weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Our preliminary experience suggests that Tl effects of superparamagnetic iron oxides (SPIO) can be exploited to characterize liver hemangiomas.
Rate distortion theory and the volatility of asset prices

A market with many traders clears at a single price. The intuition that such a market can be modeled as a multiple access channel with many source inputs and a single output is confirmed and supported by single stock trading data. If all stocks in an exchange with a price index are so traded, then the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) of the index should find the index a prediction of future returns to holding a portfolio of the indexed stocks. This inference is shown to be true by applying Shannon's rate distortion theorem to the CAPM, and thereby ending the decade-old controversy that the CAPM cannot explain stock and bond price volatility. Data from the NYSE are found to be compatible with the CAPM rate distortion function. In contrast to communication system channels, market channels cannot operate at channel capacity, but rather at a mutual information rate demanded by trader profit taking. This rate compared to the trader information source rate distortion function determines the minimum price distortion that can be expected of markets.
Dietary protein requirements of younger and older adults

Background For older men and women, the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) and Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein are not known with confidence. Data from the limited research studies available suggest that the EAR and RDA might be greater than the assumed 0.66 and 0.80 g protein x kg body wt(-1) x d(-1), respectively. Objective This study assessed the effect of age on the EAR and RDA for protein. Design Twenty-three younger (age: 21-46 y; 11 men, 12 women) and 19 older (age: 63-81 y; 8 men, 11 women) persons completed three 18-d trials with protein intakes of 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00 g protein x kg body wt(-1) x d(-1). Nitrogen balance was determined by using data from total nitrogen analyses of duplicate food composites and complete urine and feces collections from days 14 to 17 of each trial. Each subject's protein requirement was estimated by using linear regression of protein intake and nitrogen balance data from all 3 trials and inverse prediction. Results The mean (+/- SD) protein requirement was not different between the younger and older subjects: 0.61 +/- 0.14 compared with 0.58 +/- 0.12 g protein x kg body wt(-1) . d(-1). On the basis of individual requirement estimates from the younger and older subjects combined (2.5% trimming from each tail and variation estimated by the bootstrap), an adequate protein allowance for these subjects was calculated to be 0.85 +/- 0.21 g protein x kg body wt(-1) x d(-1). Conclusions These short-term nitrogen balance results suggest that the requirement for total dietary protein is not different for healthy older adults than for younger adults and that the allowance estimate does not differ statistically from the RDA.
Simple MaxEnt models explain food web degree distributions

Degree distributions are widely used to characterize networks, including food webs, and play a vital role in models of food web structure. To date, there have been no mechanistic or statistical explanations for the form of food web degree distributions. Here, I introduce models for food web degree distributions based on the principle of maximum entropy (MaxEnt) and show that the distributions of the number of consumers and resources in 23 (45%) and 35 (69%) of 51 food webs are not significantly different at a 95% confidence level from the MaxEnt distribution. These findings offer a new null model for the most probable degree distributions in food webs and other networks. They suggest that there is relatively little pressure favoring generalist or specialist consumption strategies but that biological drivers or methodological bias may force the consumer distribution away from the MaxEnt form.
Comparing Simple Insulin Sensitivity Indices to the Oral Minimal Model Postexercise.

AB Purpose: This study aims to establish whether changes in indices of insulin sensitivity (Si) derived from fasting glucose and an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) are comparable to Si determined by the oral minimal model (OMM) in response to acute moderate-intensity exercise (MIE) and high-intensity exercise (HIE). Methods: Eighteen prediabetic subjects completed three conditions: control (no exercise), ~200 kcal of MIE (~50% of V[spacing dot above]O2peak), and ~200 kcal of HIE (~80% V[spacing dot above]O2peak). One hour postexercise (or control), subjects underwent a 75-g OGTT; plasma glucose and insulin were measured to determine Si using several OGTT-based indices (OMM, Belfiore index, Cederholm index, Matsuda index, Gutt index, oral glucose insulin sensitivity index, Stumvoll metabolic clearance rate, Stumvoll insulin sensitivity index, 1/mean OGTT insulin, and 1/insulin incremental area under the curve) and fasting indices (1/homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, 1/adipose tissue insulin resistance, 40/fasting insulin, and Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index). ANOVA and Pearson's correlations were used to examine relationships between changes in Si ([DELTA]Si) among various indices compared to the OMM. Results: Exercise resulted in a significant increase in Si, according to OGTT-based indices ranging from 11% to 51% (MIE, P 0.29) and a decrease in Si following HIE (P < 0.001). OGTT-based and fasting indices underpredicted [DELTA]Si-OMM by ~40% and ~90% following MIE and HIE, respectively. [DELTA]Si-OMM following MIE was moderately correlated with [DELTA]Si estimated by OGTT-based indices, but not fasting indices. In contrast, [DELTA]Si-OMM following HIE was not significantly correlated with any Si index. Conclusions: Insulin sensitivity increases postexercise, according to most Si models. However, there is high variability between indices under each condition, and these measures only correlate with the OMM following MIE. Caution should be exerted when drawing conclusions about the insulin-sensitizing effects of exercise based on OGTT and fasting indices.
Kant’s Deconstruction of the Principle of Sufficient Reason

On three occasions in the Critique of Pure Reason , Kant takes credit for having finally provided the proof of the “principle of sufficient reason” that his predecessors in post-Leibnizian German philosophy had sought in vain. They could not provide such a proof, he says, because they lacked the transcendental method of the Critique of Pure Reason . According to this method, one proves the truth of a synthetic a priori principle (for instance, the causal principle) by proving two things: (1) that the conditions of possibility of our experience of an object are also the conditions of possibility of this object itself (this is the argument Kant makes in the Transcendental Deduction of the Categories); (2) that presupposing the truth of the synthetic principle under consideration (for instance, the causal principle, but also all the other “principles of pure understanding”) is a condition of possibility of our experience of any object, and therefore (by virtue of [1]), of this object itself. What Kant describes as his “proof of the principle of sufficient reason” is none other than his proof, according to this method, of the causal principle in the Second Analogy of Experience, in the Critique of Pure Reason (cf. A200–1/B246–7, A217/B265, A783/B811). Now this claim is somewhat surprising. In Leibniz, and in Christian Wolff – the main representative of the post-Leibnizian school of German philosophy discussed by Kant – the causal principle is only one of the specifications of the principle of sufficient reason.
Pink Bollworm: Response of Released APHIS Strain and Native Moths to Ratios of Z,Z and Z,E Isomers of Gossyplure in the Field

Native male Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) showed a statistically significant preference for bait containing 60% of the Z,Z isomer of gossyplure and 40% of Z,E isomer early and late (May and Oct., respectively) in the 1977 cotton-growing season in Phoenix, AZ. The same preference was shown by released irradiated moths produced by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), USDA (same production released in the San Joaquin Valley of California during the 1977 season). During the intervening months, the 50% baits caught as many or more of both types of moths than the 60% baits. Early in the season, the 50 and 60% baits accounted for 78% of the total catches of native males; in Aug., the comparable catch was 34%, indicating an increased acceptance of less than optimum ratios during mid-season. Recovery of APHIS moths ranged from 0–29% during the season; lowest recoveries occurred in Aug. and Sept. when native populations were greatest.
Basal serum prolactin levels and prolactin responses to constant infusions of thyrotropin releasing hormone in healthy aging men.

We measured serum prolactin (PRL) levels by RIA before and during a 240-min constant infusion of TRH (0.4 microgram/min iv) in three similarly sized groups of healthy aging men 30 to 49, 50 to 69, and 70 to 96 years. Basal data were evaluated by analysis of variance with Duncan's multiple range test and regression analysis. Mean basal serum PRL level was elevated (p less than .05) in the oldest group, attributable to PRL elevations (between 20 and 40 ng/ml) in 4 men over 75 years. Serum PRL levels decreased (p less than .001) from -30 min to 0 min before TRH infusion in all groups, but there was no age-dependent difference (p greater than .3) in the magnitude of the reduction. Repeated measures analysis of variance showed increased serum PRL levels (p less than .001) during TRH infusion in all age groups, and an age-dependent increase (p less than .05) in magnitude of peak PRL response. This significant difference was between the two oldest age groups early in the infusion. Chi-square analysis revealed an increased (p less than .05) frequency of early (less than 120 min) peak responses in the oldest age group. The present data suggest that basal and TRH-stimulated PRL secretion may be augmented in some healthy older men.
Albumin Evolution and Subfamilial Relationships among New World Leaf-Nosed Bats (Family Phyllostomidae)

Subfamilial relationships within the New World leaf-nosed bats, family Phyllostomidae, and intergeneric relationships within the subfamily Phyllostominae are examined with the use of albumin immunology. Phylogenetic relationships indicated by the albumin data show a high level of congruence with those suggested by both anatomical and chromosomal studies. Immunological data indicate that the subfamily Phyllostominae is a paraphyletic unit containing lineages from which other phyllostomid subfamilies have been derived. The albumin data further suggest that diversification within the Phyllostomidae proceeded rather rapidly with three and possibly four extant lineages originating as part of the basal phyllostomid radiation. The phylogenetic associations of currently recognized subfamilies and genera revealed by the immunological data together with chromosomal and morphological data suggest the need for a taxonomic revision of the family Phyllostomidae.
Leading and Motivating Peer Teams

Managing a project team with critical outcomes and strong personalities is a complex task. It’s also one that librarians end up doing frequently: leading teams of peers on critical, shortor medium-term projects without necessarily having training or support in leading teams. So, with the stakes high and experience low, how do you avoid blundering into error? Ideas listed here are inspired by the Harvard Business Review article “Are you sure you’re not a bad boss?” as well as a Daniel Goleman article in the New York Times on emotional intelligence and library-specific articles such as Steven Bell’s Good Leaders Learn What Not to Do and Jennifer Bartlett’s The Power Deep in Org Chart: Leading from the Middle. This list, though, is a library-focused take on how to lead peers when you are not in a formal managerial role.
The Unexpected Leader: Challenges of Having Leadership Thrust Upon You

Sometimes leadership is unexpected. While in the ideal case, a leader enters the office with time for him or her to prepare fully for the job, some of the best opportunities arise with an element of surprise and even risk associated with them. While it can be a rough way to start, there are things you can do to mitigate the risk that you are doomed to failure because of the odd nature of your entree into the role of leader. In fact, for the right person in the right place it can help to focus your energy on doing the right things first as you put together a crash program and get started.
Visual elements in direct-to-consumer advertising: Messages communicated to patients with arthritis

ABSTRACTDirect-to-consumer (DTC) advertising saturates popular health magazines, communicating persuasive messages to readers that may influence attitudes and behaviors. This research used a two-prong approach to investigate the visual elements used in DTC advertising and their influence on consumers’ understanding of a disease and its treatment options. An analysis was conducted of DTC advertisements (N = 62) from a population sample of Arthritis Today magazine, 2000–2010. Three panels of people with arthritis were used to validate the findings and discuss implications for health literacy. Pharmaceutical companies have an opportunity to communicate tailored messages to readers of niche publications and improve disease management.
Abstract P194: A Novel Signalosome in the Alpha1a-Adrenergic Receptor and its Genetic Variant Signaling Pathway

Objectives : Human α1adrenergic receptors (AR), members of G protein-coupled receptor superfamily (GPCR) regulate blood pressure via smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation and vasoconstriction. We showed that α1aAR-G247R (247R) genetic variant, identified in a hypertensive patient, constitutively couples to β-arrestin1/MMP/EGFR transactivation pathway leading to hyperproliferation in fibroblasts, cardiomyoblasts and SMCs. A scaffolding protein spinophilin (SPL) serves as a docking site for many regulatory proteins including RGS2 (negative R egulators of G -protein S ignaling). SPL also binds 3rd intracellular loop of some GPCRs. Hypothesis: differential interaction of 247R or α1aAR-WT (WT) with SPL/RGS2/β-arrestin signalosome mediates unique signaling of 247R and hyperproliferation in cardiovascular cells. Methods: Receptor-protein interactions were determined by co-immunoprecipitation from HEK293 cells expressing HA-α1ARs and full length Myc-SPL, its fragments or Flag-RGS2. Protein levels were analyzed by Western. SPL knockdown or RGS2 overexpression was performed using SPL-specific or scrambled siRNA or Flag-RGS2. Results: Our results reveal that in SMCs or cardiomyoblasts 247R but not WT upregulates endogenous SPL. SPL exhibits stronger (~2-fold) interaction with WT compared to 247R or α1b, recruits RGS2 and inhibits receptor signaling. In contrast, weak SPL-247R interaction diminishes RGS2 inhibitory effect permitting hyperproliferation of 247R cells. SPL knockdown inhibits 247R-induced proliferation by allowing RGS2 directly bind to 247R as observed with RGS2 overexpression. Overexpression of SPL with RGS2 restores hyperproliferation suggesting that in 247R cells SPL binds RGS2 preventing RGS2-247R interaction. Conclusions: We present SPL/RGS2/β-arrestin as a novel signalosome responsible for α1aAR-247R genetic variant triggered hyperproliferation in different cardiovascular cells. We reveal that SPL regulates α1aAR signaling by differentially binding WT or 247R receptors and recruiting RGS2 protein to the receptor. These novel findings unravel critical roles of SPL and RGS2 in α1AR signaling, as well as identify SPL as a potential novel target for treatment of α1AR-mediated cardiovascular disorders.
Inventing China: The American Tradition of Translating Chinese Poetry

T.S. Eliot called Ezra Pound the “inventor of Chinese poetry of our time.” With this observation as the premise for the discussion, this chapter focuses on the reception of classical Chinese poetry as manifest in English translations from Ezra Pound to contemporary American translators (many of whom are also poets). Exploring the nature of the paradigm shift from Pound to the later generations of translators, the question addressed here is: “[W]ho are the inventors of Chinese poetry of our time since Pound?”
Maternal exercise upregulates mitochondrial gene expression and increases enzyme activity of fetal mouse hearts.

Maternal exercise during pregnancy has been shown to improve the long-term health of offspring in later life. Mitochondria are important organelles for maintaining adequate heart function, and mitochondrial dysfunction is linked to cardiovascular disease. However, the effects of maternal exercise during pregnancy on mitochondrial biogenesis in hearts are not well understood. Thus, the purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that mitochondrial gene expression in fetal myocardium would be upregulated by maternal exercise. Twelve-week-old female C57BL/6 mice were divided into sedentary and exercise groups. Mice in the exercise group were exposed to a voluntary cage-wheel from gestational day 1 through 17. Litter size and individual fetal weights were taken when pregnant dams were sacrificed at 17 days of gestation. Three to four hearts from the same group were pooled to study gene expression, protein expression, and enzyme activity. There were no significant differences in litter size, sex distribution, and average fetal body weight per litter between sedentary and exercised dams. Genes encoding mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics, including nuclear respiratory factor-1 (Nrf1), Nrf2, and dynamin-related GTPase termed mitofusin-2 (Mfn2) were significantly upregulated in the fetal hearts from exercised dams. Cytochrome c oxidase activity and ATP production were significantly increased, while the hydrogen peroxide level was significantly decreased in the fetal hearts by maternal exercise. Our results demonstrate that maternal exercise initiated at day 1 of gestation could transfer the positive mitochondrial phenotype to fetal hearts.
Beyond Sensitivity. LGBT Healthcare Training in U.S. Medical Schools: A Review of the Literature

ABSTRACTPurpose: Training future physicians to address the health needs of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) population can potentially decrease health disparities faced by such individuals. In this literature review, we examine the characteristics and impact of current LGBT healthcare training at U.S. medical schools.Methods: We performed a comprehensive literature search to identify studies on LGBT healthcare training in U.S. medical schools. Studies published between January 2000 and September 2016 that described the program and reported on at least one quantitative evaluative measure were included in our review.Results: We found 13 studies meeting our inclusion criteria. The programs had high levels of variability in curricular content, educational strategies used, duration, and evaluation methods. Many programs utilized an interactive experience involving a standardized patient. The majority of participants in such programs felt this approach was an effective learning strategy. All p...
Body Dissatisfaction and Mental Health Across Ethnic/Racial and Immigrant Groups: Implications for Marriage and Family Therapists

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this effort is to broaden the scope with which body dissatisfaction (BD) is viewed to inform the practices of MFTs. Associations between college students' BD and measures of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and body image were tested using mean-level comparisons, path analysis, and multi-group tests by sex, across ethnic/racial groups, and across immigration status. Data were collected from N = 10,573 youth. There was evidence of significant mean level differences, and BD predicted internalizing symptoms while multi-group tests were largely invariant suggesting a more universal impact than dominant theoretical explanations (i.e. Objectification theory) posit.
How to make persistent micelle templates in 24 hours and know it using X-ray scattering

The controlled fabrication of nanoscale materials can enable new behaviors and properties as well as improved performance. For example, many electrochemical devices are made from porous materials where the architecture of both the porosity and the material each affect distinct processes. Recently, persistent micelle templating (PMT) emerged as a unique nanofabrication technique that enables decoupled control over the porosity and wall material dimensions via self-assembly. PMT control relies upon kinetic entrapment to preserve the micelle diameter while adding material. However, the development of PMT is currently cumbersome where time-intensive polymerizations and solution parameter searches are both required. Here we report simple SAXS based geometric models that significantly expedite the identification of the PMT window with a one-pot titration-approach. The models also quantitatively predict the nominal template diameter and wall-thickness within the PMT window. This approach yielded the first PMT criteria for a low molar mass block copolymer with ∼13 nm mesopores and continuously tunable wall-thickness with 2 A increments. Furthermore, we demonstrate an accelerated synthesis that includes custom polymer fabrication and micelle templating within 24 h. The polymer synthesis was demonstrated without high-vacuum equipment and only used low-cost, commercially available reagents. These advances will ease and accelerate the use of PMT for a wide gamut of nanomaterials investigations.
Energy-dense diet triggers changes in gut microbiota, reorganization of gut­brain vagal communication and increases body fat accumulation.

Obesity is associated with consumption of energy-dense diets and development of systemic inflammation. Gut microbiota play a role in energy harvest and inflammation and can influence the change from lean to obese phenotypes. The nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) is a brain target for gastrointestinal signals modulating satiety and alterations in gut-brain vagal pathway may promote overeating and obesity. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that high-fat diet‑induced changes in gut microbiota alter vagal gut-brain communication associated with increased body fat accumulation. Sprague-Dawley rats consumed a low energy‑dense rodent diet (LFD; 3.1 kcal/g) or high energy‑dense diet (HFD, 5.24 kcal/g). Minocycline was used to manipulate gut microbiota composition. 16S Sequencing was used to determine microbiota composition. Immunofluorescence against IB4 and Iba1 was used to determine NTS reorganization and microglia activation. Nodose ganglia from LFD rats were isolated and co-cultured with different bacteria strains to determine neurotoxicity. HFD altered gut microbiota with increases in Firmicutes/Bacteriodetes ratio and in pro-inflammatory Proteobacteria proliferation. HFD triggered reorganization of vagal afferents and microglia activation in the NTS, associated with weight gain. Minocycline-treated HFD rats exhibited microbiota profile comparable to LFD animals. Minocycline suppressed HFD‑induced reorganization of vagal afferents and microglia activation in the NTS, and reduced body fat accumulation. Proteobacteria isolated from cecum of HFD rats were toxic to vagal afferent neurons in culture. Our findings show that diet‑induced shift in gut microbiome may disrupt vagal gut‑brain communication resulting in microglia activation and increased body fat accumulation.
Bifurcation of the respiratory response to lung inflation in anesthetized dogs

Numerous studies have demonstrated the effect of lung volume on prolongation of duration of expiration (TE) with limited understanding of the TE shortening and termination of expiration as observed in newborn. In 14 dogs, the effects of varied onset of lung inflation during expiration on the TE were evaluated. When lung inflation was applied in the first part of expiration (20-60% of TE) TE was lengthened. However, in the second portion (60-80% of TE) of expiration, lung inflation either terminated or prolonged TE; whereas in the last portion of expiration (80-90% of TE), lung inflation tended to terminate expiration prematurely. The effects were abolished after bilateral vagotomy. We postulate that prolongation of TE relates to the Breuer-Hering inflation reflex, which increases the time needed for a passive expiration; whereas the ability to shorten TE could relate to Head's paradoxical reflex acting to initiate inspiration or to activate inspiratory motor activity to brake expiratory flow as occurs in the newborn.
Hope Takes the Field: Mind Matters in Athletic Performances

Publisher Summary Research support for the hope theory is gaining acceptance among coaches, athletes, and sport psychology researchers. This sport research builds on the literature indicating that high- as compared to low-hope people, as measured by both trait and state indices, have advantages in a variety of goal pursuit activities. These studies have used the Trait Hope Scale and the State Hope Scale, the validities and reliabilities of which are detailed in earlier research. The chapter describes a series of studies that explores the usefulness of the hope theory for understanding athletes' academic and sport achievements. Individual differences in Hope Scale scores may help identify those student athletes who are at risk for dropping out of school and their sports as well. The higher hope female athletes appeared to have more previous sport achievements and future sport goals suggesting that a more engaged attitude accompanies their higher hope. Given the importance of completing high school as a means of opening up a myriad of other life opportunities, as well as the beneficial effects provided by participating in sports, the predictions offered via the Hope Scale scores may offer crucial information to counselors in identifying those students who are more likely to drop out.
Ethics and the Elderly

The elderly are most often the focus of ethical dilemmas, not only because of the increased frequency of illness, but also because of the reality that death is an impending inevitability. Of all the health care professionals, it is the primary care physician who is best situated to assist the elderly patient in exercising his or her own autonomy in matters concerning health care decisions. Both intrinsic factors, such as the presence of dementia and delerium associated with acute illness, and extrinsic factors, including the family's wishes, the settings of care, and financial consideration, may influence decision making. Limited diagnostic and therapeutic interventions should be addressed as separate entities in the development of the patient care plan.
Organic Synthesis. Use of Alkynes as a Key to Innovation in Designing Structure for Function

A personal perspective of one aspect of what needs to be done to fulfill the scientific objective of improving the world in which we live is presented. One specific goal of this journey is to enable the best design of molecular structure for function regardless of complexity. Meeting this objective requires improvements in the fundamental tools of constructing synthetic reactions. What is presented is just one part of our journey which started with a fundamental question; do the unique features of alkyne building blocks provide an unusual opportunity to achieve the noted objectives? The story begins with the discovery of new synthetic tools and concludes with numerous illustrations of the broad potential these tools appear to possess.
Pain After Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant worldwide public health problem. The annual incidence of TBI in the United States has been cited as 1.7 million cases, but this is likely an underestimate due to underreporting and misdiagnosis, and does not take into account the increasing number of military patients with TBI. It is a contributing factor in nearly one-third of all injury-related deaths in the United States. Total lifetime costs are estimated to be over $60 billion per year. The hallmark features of TBI include head injury with loss of consciousness or alteration of mental status. Consequences of TBI include cognitive deficits, mental health issues, as well as physical pain complaints. Chronic pain is a common complication of TBI and may be exacerbated by psychiatric conditions such as depression and posttraumatic stress disorder. In this chapter, we will emphasize a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating physical, pharmacologic, and psychological modalities for the treatment of pain associated with TBI. Further research into the pathophysiology and diagnosis of TBI and its complications may lead to improved treatments.
OPEN INNOVATION : AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF ONLINE CONTESTS

Online contests for open innovation – seekers posting innovation projects to which solvers submit solutions – have been developed into a new online commerce model. This study is one of the first to lift the veil of online contests. We identify that real world online contests are very different from what is assumed by previous studies. A real world online contest has uncertain number of solvers due to dynamic participation process. Feedback can encourage solvers to contribute more than the equilibrium effort. With a given award, if the seeker's feedback effort is high enough, the emerging number of solvers is a proxy measure of contest performance. By examining large-scale data from an online contest marketplace, we find that a contest with higher award, longer duration, shorter description, lower time cost, and higher popularity will attract more solvers. Specifically simple and ideation based projects are the most efficient in capturing solvers.
An Introduction to Cardiovascular Disease

The term cardiovascular disease refers to any disorder of the heart and blood vessels, including hypertension, coronary artery disease (CAD), cardiac dysrhythmias, cerebrovascular disease, valvular heart disease, cardiomyopathies, peripheral vascular disease, and congenital cardiac abnormalities. Each disorder has been characterized epidemiologically; incidence and prevalence rates vary widely by country and culture. Because hypertension, coronary artery disease, cardiac dysrhythmias, and cerebrovascular disease account for the majority of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in developed countries, those topics are the focus of this chapter. For each of the disease categories, the epidemiology, etiology, risk indicators and primary prevention, diagnostic assessment, and treatment and prognosis are discussed.