cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Treatment outcomes and prognostic factors of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

The aim of the present study was to determine the treatment outcome and prognostic factors for survival in patients with peripheral intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). A retrospective chart review was performed for patients diagnosed with ICC between 2000 and 2009 at a single institution. We identified a total of 105 patients with ICC. Among them, 63.8% were older than 60 years of age, 50.5% were male and 88.6% were Caucasian. By preoperative imaging approximately half of the patients (50.5%) were surgical candidates and underwent resection. The other half of the patients (49.5%) were unresectable. The unresectable group received chemoradiotherapy (53%) and transarterial chemoembolization (7.7%) as palliative treatments while 23.0% of the patients (12/52) received best supportive care alone. The median survival rates were 16.1 months (13.1–19.2) for the entire cohort, 27.6 months (17.7–37.6) for curative resection, 12.9 months (6.5–19.2) for palliative chemoradiotherapy and 4.9 months (0.4–9.6) for best supportive care (P<0.001). Independent predictors on multivariate analysis were advanced stage at diagnosis and treatment received. In those patients who underwent resection, advanced AJCC stage and presence of microvascular invasion were also independent predictors of poor survival. We concluded that surgery offers the most beneficial curative option and outcome, emphasizing the importance of resectability as a major prognostic factor. The present study also revealed that use of chemoradiotherapy in the adjuvant setting failed to improve survival but its palliative use in those patients with unresectable ICC offered a modest survival advantage over best supportive care. The overriding factors influencing outcome were stage and the presence of microvascular invasion on pathology.
Same-Sex Domestic Violence: Prevalence, Unique Aspects, and Clinical Implications

Domestic violence is a significant public health issue. Prevalence rates for same-sex domestic violence vary because of methodological issues related to recruitment and definitions of sexual orientation. However, such prevalence rates are currently considered to be similar to slightly greater than other-sex prevalence rates. Research has identified differences between same-sex domestic violence and other-sex domestic violence, including internalized and externalized stressors associated with being a sexual minority that interact with domestic violence to create or exacerbate vulnerabilities, higher risk for complex trauma experiences, and difficulties accessing services. This review provides a critical review of the literature, focusing upon empirical findings regarding same-sex domestic violence.
Optical Properties Of Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) Silicon Nitride

Silicon nitride, prepared by the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method, transmits electromagnetic energy in the visible, infrared and radar frequency ranges. In this paper, the visible and infrared transmittance properties of polished flat plate and hemispherical shell geometries are described. Integrating sphere hemispherical and in-line specular transmittance measurements indicate near intrinsic levels are being achieved in the infrared wavelength region, however, a diffuse scattering component is limiting imaging capability. Current processing research is aimed at identifying deposition conditions which will eliminate major scattering sources such as the microcrack network found in all deposits made to date. Achievement of this research goal will broaden the optical applications of this unique refractory ceramic.© (1982) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The anniversary reaction: A meeting of Freud and Pavlov

Abstract Emotionally invested dates or times may trigger serious emotional, physical, or behavioral responses-anniversary reactions. Freud's concept of the repetition compulsion and Pavlov's conditioned response help to provide an understanding of such phenomena. The authors present illustrative case reports and make suggestions for treatment.
A new low-volume isosmotic polyethylene glycol solution plus bisacodyl versus split-dose 4 L polyethylene glycol for bowel cleansing prior to colonoscopy: A randomised controlled trial

Abstract Background 4-L polyethylene glycol preparations are effective for colon cleansing before colonoscopy. However, large volume and unpleasant taste reduce tolerability and acceptability limiting patient compliance. A new isosmotic low-volume polyethylene glycol preparation with citrates and simethicone plus bisacodyl has been developed to improve patient compliance and tolerability. Aim To compare the efficacy of 2 different regimens of preparation vs a split-dose of polyethylene glycol solution. Patients and methods In this randomised, blinded, comparative study, 153 patients were allocated to 3 arms. Arm 1 ( n = 52) received bisacodyl and 2-L polyethylene glycol with citrates and simethicone the day before the procedure. Arm 2 ( n = 50) received bisacodyl the day before and 2-L polyethylene glycol with citrates and simethicone on the day of colonoscopy. Control group ( n = 51) received a split-dose of 4-L polyethylene glycol. Cleansing was evaluated according to Ottawa scale. Results The mean Ottawa score was not different in the 3 groups. Excellent cleansing was observed more frequently in arm 2 (70%) than in controls (49%) ( p p Conclusions New low-volume preparations seem to be as effective as the split 4-L polyethylene glycol regimen, showing a better tolerability and acceptability.
Hard-scattering scaling laws for single-spin production asymmetries

The extraction of a scaling law of the form (({ital p}{sub {ital T}}{sup 2}+{mu}{sup 2})/{mu}{ital p}{sub {ital T}}){ital A}{sub {ital N}}{congruent}{ital g}({ital x}{sub {ital T}}) (where {ital x}{sub {ital T}}=2{ital p}{sub {ital T}}/ {radical}{ital s} ) from data on a single-spin production asymmetry such as {ital A}{sub {ital N}d}{sigma}({ital pp}{sub {up arrow}}{r arrow}{pi}{sup 0}{ital X}) at large transverse momentum can be used to argue for an underlying hard-scattering'' mechanism. Data from the upcoming Fermilab polarized beam experiment (E-704) can be used to test the scaling hypothesis.
Modeling bodies that can only undergo isochoric motions subject to mechanical stimuli but are compressible or expansible with respect to thermal stimuli

In this short note, we discuss a new constitutive approach to describing the response of bodies, both solid and fluid, that can only undergo isochoric motions in isothermal processes but which can undergo non-isochoric motions in arbitrary processes. Within this new framework, one finds that conditions that were perceived as constraints on the response of the body now arise naturally within the frame work of the constitutive definition of these bodies. For instance, a central approximation in fluid mechanics that is of great utility in the analysis of fluid flow problems in geophysics and astrophysics is that due to Oberbeck (Ann Phys Chem 1:271–292, 1879; Uber die bewengungsercheinungen der Atmosphare, Sitz Ber K Preuss Akad Miss, pp 383–395, 1129–1138, 1888) and Boussinesq (Theorie Analytique de la Chaleur. Gauthier-Villas, Paris, 1903) for describing the flow of fluids, which can undergo only isochoric motions in isothermal processes but which are otherwise capable of non-isochoric motions. A similar demand can be made concerning the response of solid bodies wherein one could carry out an approximation similar to that of the Oberbeck–Boussinesq equations, and such an approach might be of great value in the study of technologically relevant problems.
Applications of RICH detectors in astrophysics

Abstract Forefront measurements in astrophysics require relatively large instruments exposed above the atmosphere for extended periods of time. RICH detectors are being introduced to this field because of their capability for high accuracy measurements and well understood and quantified fluctuations. They also have a defined absolute response to particles at a particular velocity, an important requirement for the accurate determination of particle energy spectra. RICH detectors are especially suited to this type of experiment because of their low mass and the ease with which background can be identified and rejected. We report on a large RICH experiment that has been flown on a high altitude balloon in 1991 and discuss future applications of this technology.
Of Roots and Wings: Letting Go of the College‐Bound Child

This article examines how parents experience the process of “letting go” of their college-bound children. The focus of our analysis is on how the parents evaluate the meanings of their children's leaving home and adopt strategies to facilitate the process for both themselves and the departing child. Our analysis is based on interviews with thirty sets of parents. The interview materials allowed us to recognize and then parse the paradoxical task faced by parents of fostering “attached individuation” for both themselves and their children. We address four broad and persistent themes that emerged from our conversations with parents. First, we consider how parents manage the range of sometimes-conflicting emotions generated by the letting go process. Second, we analyze the content of parents' worries as a good unobtrusive measure of how they understand the transition to college as a ritual marker in their children's lives. Third, we show how negotiations about geography—about proper distance from home—in choosing a college reflect efforts to impose a measure of gradualism into the letting go process. Fourth, we report on how parents theorize the impact of a child's departure on family relationships in general.
Stock price reactions as surrogates for the net cash flow effects of corporate policy decisions

Abstract This paper adopts a rational market structure to examine the link between the cash flow effects of management policy decisions and the resulting stock price reactions. The focus is on testing cross-sectional associations between cash flow effects and the underlying characteristics of affected firms. We find that it is not possible to infer the sign of association between the stock price reaction and any characteristics of the firm that are observable before management announces its decision. Our methodological suggestions involve exploiting either a priori assumptions or sample information about the probability distribution of unobservable decision variables underlying the management decision process.
Simplicity and Properties: A Reply to Morris

The doctrine of divine simplicity, the doctrine that God has no physical or metaphysical complexity whatsoever, is not a doctrine designed to induce immediate philosophical acquiescence. There are severe questions about its coherence. And even if those questions can be answered satisfactorily in favour of the doctrine, there remains the question why anyone should accept it. Thomas V. Morris raises both sorts of questions about a version of the doctrine which I have put forward. In the following pages I shall respond to what I take to be the most serious of Morris's objections. I shall argue that the doctrine survives Morris's onslaught, but that one observation of his points it in a direction I had hitherto not taken seriously. The bulk of Morris's paper raises questions of the first sort; perforce the bulk of my paper will also. I shall offer, at the end, a reason for thinking that neither of us is yet in a position to pronounce categorically on the second question. My remarks in this paper constitute an interim report on how I think things presently stand with divine simplicity.
Changes in gene expression at the precursor --> stem cell transition in leech.

The glossiphoniid leech, Theromyzon trizonare, displays particularly large and accessible embryonic precursor/stem cells during its early embryonic cleavages. We dissected populations of both cell types from staged embryos and examined gene expression profiles by differential display polymerase chain reaction methodology. Among the ∼10,000 displayed cDNA fragments, 56 (∼0.5%) were differentially expressed at the precursor stem cell transition; 29 were turned off (degraded, precursor-specific); and 27 were turned on (transcribed, stem cell-specific). Several putative differentially expressed cDNAs from each category were confirmed by Northern blot analysis on staged embryos. DNA sequencing revealed that 19 of the cDNAs were related to a spectrum of genes including the CCR4 antiproliferation gene, Rad family members, and several transcriptional regulators, while the remainder encoded hypothetical (10) or novel (27) sequences. Collectively, these results identify dynamic changes in gene expression during stem cell formation in leech and provide a platform for examining the molecular aspects of stem cell genesis in a simple invertebrate organism.
A zymogen-like factor Xa variant corrects the coagulation defect in hemophilia

Effective therapies are needed to control excessive bleeding in a range of clinical conditions. We improve hemostasis in vivo using a conformationally pliant variant of coagulation factor Xa (FXa(I16L)) rendered partially inactive by a defect in the transition from zymogen to active protease. Using mouse models of hemophilia, we show that FXa(I16L) has a longer half-life than wild-type FXa and does not cause excessive activation of coagulation. Once clotting mechanisms are activated to produce its cofactor FVa, FXa(I16L) is driven to the protease state and restores hemostasis in hemophilic animals upon vascular injury. Moreover, using human or murine analogs, we show that FXa(I16L) is more efficacious than FVIIa, which is used to treat bleeding in hemophilia inhibitor patients. FXa(I16L) may provide an effective strategy to enhance blood clot formation and act as a rapid pan-hemostatic agent for the treatment of bleeding conditions.
Age and petrogenesis of plagiogranite intrusions in the Ankara mélange, central Turkey

The Ankara melange within the Izmir–Ankara–Erzincan suture zone in north-central Turkey includes ophiolitic fragments that represent the remnants of an oceanic basement evolved between the Sakarya and Kirsehir continental blocks in the early Mesozoic. The serpentinized upper mantle peridotites and lower crustal rocks in these ophiolites are cross-cut by dolerite and plagiogranite dykes, which show mutually intrusive relations indicating their synchronous emplacement into the pre-existing oceanic lithosphere. Zircon dating (U–Pb) of a plagiogranite dyke has revealed a concordia age of ∼179 ± 15 Ma that is interpreted here as the crystallization age of this differentiated rock. A fourth fraction of the zircon separates from this rock has also shown an inherited component greater than 1.7 Ga, possibly derived from the Precambrian core of the Rhodope–Strandja Metamorphic Massif in the Balkan Peninsula. Models for plagiogranite formation were tested and it is concluded that a high extent (<70%) of anhydrous or water-undersaturated, early amphibole-free fractionation of a basaltic melt source may have readily produced the observed REE concentrations for the Ankara melange plagiogranites. The trace element abundances and other geochemical features of the coeval dolerite dykes are similar to those of the plagiogranites, suggesting a common melt source. The Ta–Nb patterns shown by both the plagiogranite and dolerite dykes are typical of arc-related petrogenesis and can be explained by the addition of slab-derived components to a depleted mantle wedge. The Early Jurassic ophiolitic basement and the dyke intrusions were formed in a back-arc setting between the Paleo- and Neo-Tethyan domains in the eastern Mediterranean region. The Izmir–Ankara–Erzincan Sea developed in this back-arc environment and the related suture zone had a diachronous evolutionary history.
Structural correlations of the lanthanide halides and related compounds. Derivatives of the anti-nickel-arsenide structure

Abstract An examination of structural data for lanthanide halides and related compounds has shown that a substantial number of different structure types are conveniently described as layered structures derived from anti-NiAs by removal or shear of cation layers and distortion of the residual layers. The structural correlations of various MX, MX1.5, MX2, MXY, MX3, and MX2Y compositions (M = cation, X and Y = anions) are described by the presentation of a subgroup-supergroup diagram relating their space groups and by comparison of their structural projections. A close relationship between the CsCl- and NiAs-type structures is observed. The occurrence of displacive and order-disorder phase transitions, the formation ternary derivatives by ion accommodation processes and the possible formation of intermediate halides, M2X2n+1, by coherent intergrowth of MX2 and MX3 structures are discussed. The effects of radius ratio and cation coordination number on the stabilities of halide structures and on the formation of complex MX2 layers derived from hexagonal-closest-packed metal arrays are examined.
Structure-activity relationship for enhancement of paracellular permeability across Caco-2 cell monolayers by 3-alkylamido-2-alkoxypropylphosphocholines.

Paracellular permeability enhancers have been used to improve the oral bioavailability of hydrophilic drugs; however, the mechanism of action of many enhancers is poorly understood. In this study, highly potent enhancers of paracellular permeability were identified in the 3-alkylamido-2-alkoxypropylphosphocholine series, and a structure-activity relationship was developed for enhancement of paracellular permeability across Caco-2 cell monolayers. Compounds with short (<5 carbons) hydrocarbon chains at both C-2 and C-3 were generally inactive. The potency exhibited a parabolic relationship with respect to the chain length at either C-2 or C-3. Linear molecules (i.e., compounds with a short hydrocarbon chain at C-2 or C-3 and a long hydrocarbon chain on C-3 or C-2, respectively) were more potent than the corresponding branched molecules with the same carbon load. The efficacy of 3-alkylamido-2-alkoxypropylphosphocholines as enhancers of paracellular permeability was not dependent on their existence in micellar form or their ability to alter the fluidity of cell membrane. Previously, a correlation between the potency of alkylphosphocholines as enhancers of paracellular permeability and the inhibitors of phospholipase C (PLC) was established in Madine Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cell monolayers. The potencies of selected 3-alkylamido-2-alkoxypropylphosphocholines as inhibitors of PLC and enhancers of paracellular permeability fit well into this correlation. Therefore, phosphocholines are likely to increase paracellular permeability by modulating the signal transduction pathway initiated by a PLC-catalyzed reaction rather than by physically altering the cell membrane.
Stress engineering for free-standing SU-8 2002 thin film devices

In this paper we describe a process for creating thin SU-8 2002 films between 1.5 μm and 3.0 μm thick that are hardbaked and can withstand a release etch in either aqueous or plasma silicon etchants. Resulting films are characterized using both wafer bow and membrane bulge tests to monitor in-plane stress and Young's modulus. We explore the influence on final film stress of several process variables including hard bake temperature, exposure dose, film thickness, and various temperature profiles. We observe resultant film stress in the range of 13.8 to 32 MPa, and Young's modulus in the range of 2.1 to 5.2 GPa for free-standing membranes. Illustrative process recipes are described for both patterned and un-patterned SU-8 2002 membrane devices.
Postoperative fluid collection after hybrid debranching and endovascular repair of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.

Objective Hybrid thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (H-TEVAR) to include visceral and renal debranching has emerged as a potential therapeutic option for thoracoabdominal aneurysms (TAAA). This study was performed to characterize the frequently noted development of postoperative fluid collections surrounding the bypass grafts. Methods All patients undergoing H-TEVAR from 2000-2010 (n = 39, 43.6% male) were identified. One hundred thirty-two bypasses were constructed (median 4 per patient) using either polyester (30), thin-walled polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE, 100) or saphenous vein (2). Follow-up computed tomography (CT) imaging was routinely performed at 1 and 6 months, and annually thereafter. Results Of the 37 patients with one follow-up CT, 20 (54.1%) were found to have fluid collections. The natural history of the 17 patients with collections and further follow-up imaging was variable, with 2 resolving, 6 stable, and 9 enlarging. Two patients with collections developed evidence of graft infection requiring reoperation. Two patients with enlarging sterile collections required evacuation for symptoms. By multivariate analysis, both preoperative creatinine (P = .005) and number of bypasses constructed (P = .04) independently correlated with the development of a fluid collection. Conclusions Postoperative fluid collections following hybrid debranching procedures identified in this series represent a unique complication not previously described. The subsequent clinical course of these fluid collections is variable and ranges from benign to frank graft infection and relate both to patient factors, as well as specific operative strategies. Longer-term studies with more robust numbers of patient numbers are warranted to determine whether this complication may limit the long-term durability of this procedure.
How much is enough? Hunters and limited needs

Abstract The notion that hunter-gatherers need little and so limit what they take from available resources has been extremely influential in anthropology. We present an optimal foraging model that suggests testable predictions that are inconsistent with the postulate of "limited needs". We evaluate these predictions in light of data from the Ache of eastern Paraguay and other groups, and find that the hypotheses based on the limited needs postulate are generally falsified, whereas those derived from the optimal foraging model are generally supported.
Cholesterol Translocation in a Phospholipid Membrane

Cholesterol (CHOL) molecules play a key role in modulating the rigidity of cell membranes and controlling intracellular transport and signal transduction. Using an all-atom molecular dynamics approach, we study the process of CHOL interleaflet transport (flip-flop) in a dipalmitoylphosphatidycholine (DPPC)-CHOL bilayer over a time period of 15 μs. We investigate the effect of the flip-flop process on mechanical stress across the bilayer and the role of CHOL in inducing molecular order in bilayer leaflets. The simulations are carried out at physiologically relevant CHOL concentration (30%), temperature (323 K), and pressure (1 bar). CHOL flip-flop events are observed with a rate constant of 3 × 104 s−1. Once a flip-flop event is triggered, a CHOL molecule takes an average of 73 nanoseconds to migrate from one bilayer leaflet to the other.
Folding of viscous threads in microfluidics

We investigate microfluidic flow morphologies of miscible silicone oils having large viscosity contrasts. At small scales, viscosity dominates the flow behavior and strongly influences the flow patterns. To minimize dissipation, less viscous liquids tend to lubricate more viscous liquids, allowing for the formation of miscible, yet well-defined, threads by hydrodynamic focusing. Once formed, threads emerge from straight square microchannels of width and height h FIG. 1. Folding morphologies of miscible viscous threads. Liquids are index are in l /min; viscosities i are in cP. a Single folding strong diffusion : Q are convected outside the folding envelope. b Single folding weak diffusio Q1=12, Q2=50, 1=200, 2=0.5. d Heterogeneous chaotic deposition o Q1=5, Q2=5, Q3=15, 1= 3=6, 2=500. The threads fold initially in phas dendrites: Q2=10, Q3=25, 1=0.5, 2=500, 3=6. g Q1=15, h Q1=20, creating dendritic fingering and swirling morphologies enhanced online .
Pilot-symbol aided coherent M-ary PSK in frequency-selective fast Rayleigh fading channels

Pilot-symbol aided coherent M-ary PSK modems in digital cellular mobile radio systems are analyzed theoretically. The error-floors caused by the Doppler spread in a fast fading channel are removed in both flat and selective fading channels. However, the error-floors caused by the delay spread are lower-bounded by those that exist in the ideal coherent detection. The systems are modeled as frequency-selective fast Rayleigh fading channels, corrupted by co-channel interference (CCI) and additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN). In the proposed scheme, pilot symbols are inserted periodically to monitor the channel characteristics. The fading processes experienced by the pilot symbols are used to estimate those suffered by the data symbols using interpolation or filtering. The estimated fade characteristics are used to compensate the random phase variation caused by the Doppler spread, so that the signals can be demodulated coherently. The theoretical performances of the fade compensated coherent modems are evaluated. The results show that the fade compensated coherent demodulation with the least redundancy achieves the same performance as the ideal differential detection in a fading channel. The performance approaches that of the ideal coherent demodulation as more redundancy is allowed. The pilot-symbol-insertion (PSI) scheme is also applicable to M-ary QAM modems and Rician channels. The residual frequency offset can also be compensated by the PSI technique. >
Discordance of Species Trees with Their Most Likely Gene Trees: A Unifying Principle

A labeled gene tree topology that disagrees with a labeled species tree topology is said to be anomalous if it is more probable under a coalescent model for gene lineage evolution than the labeled gene tree topology that matches the species tree. It has previously been shown that as a consequence of short internal branches of the species tree, for every labeled species tree topology withfive or more taxa, and for asymmetric four-taxon species tree topologies, an assignment of species tree branch lengths can be made which gives rise to anomalous gene trees (AGTs). Here, I offer an alternative characterization of this result—a labeled species tree topology produces AGTs if and only if it contains two consecutive internal branches in an ancestor‐descendant relationship—and I provide a proof that follows from the change in perspective. The reformulation and alternative proof of the existence result for AGTs provide the insight that it is not merely short internal branches that generate AGTs, but instead, short internal branches that are arranged consecutively. For a labeled binary rooted species tree on n species, with one gene lineage sampled per species, an AGT is a labeled gene tree topology whose probability under the multispecies coalescent model exceeds the probability of the matching gene tree topology (Degnan and Rosenberg 2006). Denoting a la
Three dimensional imaging of computed tomography: Techniques and applications

The volumetric rendering technique, a method for creating 3D images of medical volume data sets, and its application to clinical medicine are discussed. Several features of this technique alleviate problems found in using other image generation techniques. It allows for the use of a mixture paradigm for representation of the volume to be rendered. It uses mathematical techniques which reduce or eliminate aliasing (a significant source of computer-generated artifacts). The volumetric rendering of computer tomography data can be broken into four steps: volume formation, classification, rotation, and projection. >
Souls in Transition: The Religious and Spiritual Lives of Emerging Adults. Christian Smith with Patricia Snell

Christian Smith and Patricia Snell provide a compelling and in-depth account of the religious and spiritual lives of emerging adults in their recent book, Souls in Transition. Based on three waves ...
Thin-Capped Atheromata With Reduced Collagen Content in Pigs Develop in Coronary Arterial Regions Exposed to Persistently Low Endothelial Shear Stress

Objective— The mechanisms promoting the focal formation of rupture-prone coronary plaques in vivo remain incompletely understood. This study tested the hypothesis that coronary regions exposed to low endothelial shear stress (ESS) favor subsequent development of collagen-poor, thin-capped plaques. Approach and Results— Coronary angiography and 3-vessel intravascular ultrasound were serially performed at 5 consecutive time points in vivo in 5 diabetic, hypercholesterolemic pigs. ESS was calculated along the course of each artery with computational fluid dynamics at all 5 time points. At follow-up, 184 arterial segments with previously identified in vivo ESS underwent histopathologic analysis. Compared with other plaque types, eccentric thin-capped atheromata developed more in segments that experienced lower ESS during their evolution. Compared with lesions with higher preceding ESS, segments persistently exposed to low ESS ( Conclusions— Eccentric thin-capped atheromata, lesions particularly prone to rupture, form more frequently in coronary regions exposed to low ESS throughout their evolution. By promoting an imbalance of attenuated synthesis and augmented collagen breakdown, low ESS favors the focal evolution of early lesions toward plaques with reduced collagen content and thin fibrous caps—2 critical determinants of coronary plaque vulnerability.
A simple method to stably float a coupled system of optics tables

We demonstrate that one may safely float a composite system of mechanically coupled heavy-duty optics tables with a stability of ±λ/10 for several months without requiring the presence of an air compressor in the building. Furthermore, we demonstrate a simple and non-disruptive method to mechanically couple two floating tables such that the two-table system has sufficient stability for most optics experiments, and describe precautions that need to be taken in order to avoid mechanical damage to the tables. We checked the stability of the coupled system by use of a Michelson interferometer that spanned across the two tables.
Exploration of the GM1 receptor-binding site of heat-labile enterotoxin and cholera toxin by phenyl-ring-containing galactose derivatives

Cholera toxin (CT) and the closely related heat-labile enterotoxin of Escherichia coli (LT) are responsible for numerous cases of diarrhea worldwide, leading to considerable morbidity and mortality. The B subunits of these heterohexameric AB5 toxins form a pentameric arrangement which is responsible for binding to the receptor GM1 of the target epithelial cells of the host. Blocking these B pentamer–receptor interactions forms an avenue for therapeutic intervention. Here, the structural characterization of potential receptor-blocking compounds are described based on the previously identified inhibitor m-nitrophenyl-α-d-galactoside (MNPG). The structure of a CTB–MNPG complex confirms that the binding mode of this inhibitor is identical in the two homologous toxins CT and LT and is characterized by a glycosyl linkage geometry that leads to displacement of a well ordered water molecule near the amide group of Gly33 by the O1-substituent of MNPG. This glycosyl geometry is not maintained in the absence of a substituent that can displace this water, as shown by a complex of LTB with p-aminophenyl-α-d-galactoside (PAPG). New compounds were synthesized to investigate the feasibility of maintaining the favorable binding interactions exhibited by MNPG while gaining increased affinity through the addition of hydrophobic substituents complementary to either of two hydrophobic regions of the receptor-binding site. The structural characterization of complexes of LTB with two of these compounds, 3-­benzylaminocarbonylphenyl-α-d-galactoside (BAPG) and 2-­phenethyl-7-(2,3-dihydrophthalazine-1,4-dione)-α-d-galactoside (PEPG), demonstrates a partial success in this goal. Both compounds exhibit a mixture of binding modes, some of which are presumably influenced by the local packing environment at multiple crystallographically independent binding sites. The terminal phenyl ring of BAPG associates either with the phenyl group of Tyr12 or with the hydrophobic patch formed by Lys34 and Ile58. The latter interaction is also made by the terminal phenyl substituent of PEPG, despite a larger ring system linking the galactose moiety to the terminal phenyl. However, neither BAPG nor PEPG displaces the intended target water molecule. Both of the designed compounds exhibit increased affinity relative to the galactose and to PAPG notwithstanding the failure to displace a bound water, confirming that additional favorable hydrophobic interactions can be gained by extending the starting inhibitor by a hydrophobic tail. The insight gained from these structures should allow the design of additional candidate inhibitors that retain both the glycosyl geometry and water displacement exhibited by MNPG and the favorable hydrophobic interactions exhibited by BAPG and PEPG.
Incorporating varying test costs and fault severities into test case prioritization

Test case prioritization techniques schedule test cases for regression testing in an order that increases their ability to meet some performance goal. One performance goal, rate of fault detection, measures how quickly faults are detected within the testing process. In previous work (S. Elbaum et al., 2000; G. Rothermel et al., 1999), we provided a metric, APFD, for measuring rate of fault detection, and techniques for prioritizing test cases to improve APFD, and reported the results of experiments using those techniques. This metric and these techniques, however, applied only in cases in which test costs and fault severity are uniform. We present a new metric for assessing the rate of fault detection of prioritized test cases that incorporates varying test case and fault costs. We present the results of a case study illustrating the application of the metric. This study raises several practical questions that might arise in applying test case prioritization; we discuss how practitioners could go about answering these questions.
The Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma Study Group (IRSG): Major Lessons From the IRS-I Through IRS-IV Studies as Background for the Current IRS-V Treatment Protocols.

Purpose. To enumerate lessons from studying 4292 patients with rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) in the Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma Study Group (IRSG, 1972± 1997). Patients. Untreated patients < 21 years of age at diagnosis received systemic chemotherapy, with or without irradiation (XRT) and/or surgical removal of the tumor. Methods. Pathologic materials and treatment were reviewed to ascertain compliance and to confirm response and relapse status. Results. Survival at 5 years increased from 55 to 71% over the period. Important lessons include the fact that extent of disease at diagnosis affects prognosis. Re-excising an incompletely removed tumor is worthwhile if acceptable form and function can be preserved. The eye, vagina, and bladder can usually be saved. XRT is not necessary for children with localized, completely excised embryonal RMS. Hyperfractionated XRT has thus far not produced superior local control rates compared with conventional, once-daily XRT. Patients with non-metastatic cranial parameningeal sarcoma can usually be cured with localized XRT and systemic chemotherapy, without whole-brain XRT and intrathecal drugs. Adding doxorubicin, cisplatin, etoposide, and ifosfamide has not significantly improved survival of patients with gross residual or metastatic disease beyond that achieved with VAC (vincristine, actinomycin D, cyclophosphamide) and XRT. Most patients with alveolar RMS have a tumor-specific translocation. Mature rhabdomyoblasts after treatment of patients with bladder rhabdomyosarcoma are not necessarily malignant, provided that the tumor has shrunk and malignant cells have disappeared. Discussion. Current IRSG-V protocols, summarized herein, incorporate recommendations for risk-based management. Two new agents, topotecan and irinotecan, are under investigation for patients who have an intermediate or high risk of recurrence.
Using Plants to Explore the Nature & Structural Complexity of Life

Use of real specimens brings the study of biology to life. This activity brings easily acquired plant specimens into the classroom to tackle common alternative conceptions regarding life, size, complexity, the nature of science, and plants as multicellular organisms. The activity occurs after a discussion of the characteristics of life and engages students in application of course content and utilization of scientific thinking. It is appropriate for any class in which the nature of life and its structural complexities are addressed and in which teachers want to help students gain familiarity with plants as multicellular organisms.
Anti-apoptotic actions of cytokines in mammalian cells.

AbstractApoptosis is now widely recognized as an important mode of cell death. Since the apoptotic pathway is an active process, modulation of apoptosis is important in our understanding of cell pathophysiology. Recent data have shown the inhibition of apoptosis in different cell types exposed to certain cytokines. Therapeutics that modulate the regulation of apoptosis provide an opportunity for the treatment of certain diseases. There are many reviews for apoptosis induction and the regulators involved. The present report selects important articles on the recent data showing the anti-apoptotic ability of cytokines in mammalian cells. Other novel compounds showing anti-apoptotic functions are also reviewed.
Subarachnoid spread of ependymoma: Diagnosis and evaluation of therapy by computerized tomography

The potential of ependymomas to spread throughout the intracranial subarachnoid space is well documented, though the incidence is disputed. This relates in part to the time required for such metastases to produce symptoms. The diagnosis of such spread, however, is important for therapeutic management. This report demonstrates the effectiveness of computerized tomography in diagnosing spread of ependy moma throughout the basal cisterns and cerebral fissures.
0228 Perceived Workplace Discrimination and Self Rated Health in the Chilean Workforce

Objectives Increased research shows that perceived discrimination adversely affects physical and psychological health. Even though discrimination or concealed racism is an important characteristic of the Chilean society, which can be confirmed historically, it is not perceived as an important social problem for mainstream Chile. This paper aims to estimate the prevalence rate of workplace perceived discriminatory experience (WPDE) and its association with self-rated health status in the Chilean workforce Method Data from the first national survey on employment, work, and health in Chile. Study population of 9720 selected by multistage random sampling drawn to be representative of the entire working population. Study participants were asked about their WPDE (multiple questions) and general self rated health status (one question). Adjusting by demographic and socioeconomic factors, multivariable Poisson-log generalised linear mixed models were used to estimate the association between WPED and self-rated health. Results Approximately 17% reported being a victim of WPDE. Age, income, education, and minority (nine ethnicities) were strongly associated with WDPE. Female workers showed higher rate (19.6%) of WPDE than male workers (15.6%). After simultaneously controlling for potential confounders, WPDE was positively associated with poor self-rated health (PR = 2.12, CI = 1.46–3.05). Conclusions There is positive association between WPDE and poor self-rated health in Chile. These results may be used to emphasise the importance of enacting preventive and protective workplace discrimination policies. Further research is required to study the causal mechanism of the link and best preventive and protective measures.
The once and future paradigm: alphabetic references return

The author shows how an alphabetically-arranged reference can solve the quick-lookup problem and still be task-oriented. The benefits and possible pitfalls of an alphabetic reference are described along with the issues that must be decided to prevent possible problems. >
Methods for understanding the stigma of AIDS in the United States: a review and future directions

Since AIDS was first diagnosed in the United States in 1982, people with AIDS have been severely stigmatized. In this article, we explore the origin of the AIDS stigma and offer an explanation for why individuals with AIDS are stigmatized. Then, we review studies that exemplify how the stigma of AIDS in the United States is typically investigated. Finally, we outline future research directions for studying the stigma of AIDS. Specifically, we argue that future research should disentangle the stigmas of homosexuality, IV drug use, and the stigma of AIDS; address the implications of the AIDS stigma in the workplace; and consider strategies for remediating the stigma.
Integrating disparate databases for composite-answers

The authors consider composite information systems, i.e. systems that require multiple independent databases to work together within and/or across organizational boundaries in order to increase productivity. They focus on logical connectivity, which deals with the process of accessing disparate databases in concert for composite answers. They present an approach to resolve the problems of contradiction, inconsistency, and ambiguity, which need to be overcome to attain logical connectivity. Their approach uses concepts drawn from frame-based knowledge representation and rule-based inferencing. An object-oriented prototype is presented to illustrate the process involved in formulating composite answers when different levels of abstraction are required. >
The Microbiology of Natural Soils

Soil microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, control ecosystem functioning through decomposition and nutrient cycling and may serve as indicators of land-use change and ecosystem health (Doran and Zeiss 2000; Waldrop et al. 2000; Yao et al. 2000). However, the study of soil microorganisms is difficult and our current understanding limited. The sheer number, astonishing diversity and small size of these communities become more apparent as our technologies to explore them have improved in recent years (Cardon and Gage 2006). With the rapid rise of molecular techniques, microbial ecologists are now able to walk through the world with the equivalent of the naturalist’s “field notebook,” cataloguing and classifying species. However, we often do not know what they do functionally or ecologically, or why they are found in some soils and not others (Balser et al. 2006). What we do know is that soil microbial communities are dynamic and diverse (Sylvia et al. 2005) almost beyond measure (Schloss and Handelsman 2006), and that some patterns seem to hold on a global scale.
Evaluation of the Nanosphere Verigene System and the Verigene F5/F2/MTHFR Nucleic Acid Tests.

Abstract Background Our ability to detect single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and gene mutations has become commonplace in the clinical laboratory setting. Molecular genetic testing for gene variants associated with hypercoagulability has become a standard of practice for Factor V and Factor II polymorphisms. Methods In this study, we evaluated a novel technology that allows for the routine assessment of these SNPs, the Verigene ® System (Nanosphere Inc, Northbrook, IL), as a low-density array that does not require PCR amplification prior to detection. Precision was assessed by using multiple operators for within and between run performance evaluations. Accuracy was assessed by evaluating 176 DNA samples from patients who had been previously tested for the SNPs of interest in this multicenter study. Results No mis-calls were made during the precision studies. Testing of the 176 DNA samples resulted in individual call rates for the F5, F2 and MTHFR genotypes of 98.3%, 94.9%, and 92.6%, respectively. Conclusions The Verigene ® F5/F2/MTHFR Nucleic Acid Tests for the Factor V (1691G>A), Factor II (20210G>A) and MTHFR (677C>T) genes were robust methods for SNP detection without the need for DNA amplification. The ease of use and performance of this system makes it suitable for the clinical laboratory setting.
STRATIGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION OF SAUROPODS IN THE UPPER CRETACEOUS OF THE SAN JUAN BASIN, NEW MEXICO, WITH COMMENTS ON NORTH AMERICA'S CRETACEOUS 'SAUROPOD HIATUS'

(2008). Stratigraphic distribution of sauropods in the Upper Cretaceous of the San Juan Basin, New Mexico, with comments on North America's Cretaceous ‘sauropod hiatus’. Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology: Vol. 28, No. 4, pp. 1218-1223.
Gain scheduling for H-infinity controllers: a flight control example

A new approach to gain scheduling linear dynamic controllers is illustrated for a pitch-axis autopilot design problem. In this application the linear controllers are designed at distinct operating conditions by H/sup infinity / methods. The gain scheduling procedure uses particular features of both the linear dynamic controllers and the controller configuration to remove so-called hidden coupling terms that can occur in scheduled controllers. Potential performance improvement is demonstrated by comparing simulation results to those for a naive gain scheduled controller that ignores the coupling terms. >
Peaceful nuclear explosions

Despite initial enthusiasm and much U.S. effort, their utility is yet to be demonstrated; in the meanwhile, they are hindering efforts to secure a comprehensive ban on nuclear weapons testing
Epinephrine for cardiac arrest: are we doing more harm than good?

Epinephrine for Cardiac Arrest: Are We Doing More Harm Than Good? Vijay Krishnamoorthy;Monica Vavilala;Michael Fettiplace;Guy Weinberg; Anesthesiology
Network Architecture Predisposes an Enzyme to Either Pharmacologic or Genetic Targeting

Chemical inhibition and genetic knockdown of enzymes are not equivalent in cells, but network-level mechanisms that cause discrepancies between knockdown and inhibitor perturbations are not understood. Here we report that enzymes regulated by negative feedback are robust to knockdown but susceptible to inhibition. Using the Raf-MEK-ERK kinase cascade as a model system, we find that ERK activation is resistant to genetic knockdown of MEK but susceptible to a comparable degree of chemical MEK inhibition. We demonstrate that negative feedback from ERK to Raf causes this knockdown-versus-inhibitor discrepancy in vivo. Exhaustive mathematical modeling of three-tiered enzyme cascades suggests that this result is general: negative autoregulation or feedback favors inhibitor potency, whereas positive autoregulation or feedback favors knockdown potency. Our findings provide a rationale for selecting pharmacologic versus genetic perturbations in vivo and point out the dangers of using knockdown approaches in search of drug targets.
Using The "Baccalaureate Essentials" To Create Context: Evaluation Of An Innovative Approach

The Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice (AmericanAssociation of Colleges of Nursing, 2008) seek to communicate standards that will prepare graduates to function within a complex healthcare system. The document highlights concepts from patient-centered care to evidence-based practice (Commission on CollegiateNursing Education). A service-learning experience was facilitated for junior-levelnursing students and they were asked to reflect on their learning outcomes using the nine essentials as a guiding framework. Themes were identified within the nine sub-categories and through overall analysis. By using standardized disciplinary outcomes to develop a sense of the bigger picture for students, it is possible to help them make connections between theory and practice.