cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Radiology of Fractures in Intoxicated Emergency Department Patients: Locations, Mechanisms, Presentation, and Initial Interpretation Accuracy

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship of alcohol intoxication to time-to-presentation following injury, fracture type, mechanism of injury leading to fracture, and initial diagnostic radiology interpretation performance of emergency physicians versus diagnostic radiologists in patients who present to the emergency department (ED) and are subsequently diagnosed with fracture. Medical records of 1286 patients who presented to the ED and were diagnosed with fracture who also underwent plain film or computed tomography (CT) imaging were retrospectively reviewed. The subjects were divided into intoxicated and sober groups. Patient characteristics, injury-to-presentation time, fracture location, and discrepancies between initial clinical and radiological evaluations were compared. Of 1286 subjects, 181 patients were included in the intoxicated group. Only intoxicated patients presented with head/neck fractures more than 24 hours after injury. The intoxicated group showed a higher rate of head/neck fractures (skull 23.2% vs 5.8%, face and orbit 30.4% vs 9.5%; P < 0.001) and a lower rate of extremity injuries. The rate of nondiagnosis of fractures by emergency physicians later identified by radiologists was the same in both groups (7.7% vs 7.7%, P = 0.984). While the same proportion of intoxicated patients presented more than 24 hours following injury, only intoxicated patients presented with craniofacial and cervical spinal fractures during this period. Alcohol-related injuries are more often associated with head/neck fractures but less extremity injuries. The rate of fractures missed by emergency physicians but later diagnosed by radiologists was the same in intoxicated and sober patients.
Ecto-ATPase mRNA is regulated by FSH in Sertoli cells.

A putative messenger RNA (mRNA) sequence, des- ignated C8, that was up-regulated in Sertoli cells prepared from hy- pophysectomized rats treated with testosterone, was isolated from a Sertoli cell complementary DNA (cDNA) library. The coding region of C8 exhibited 99% identity with rat brain ecto-ATPase and ex- pressed a 60-kilodalton protein following in vitro transcription/trans- lation. Transfection of COS7 cells with C8 cDNA resulted in a marked increase in Ca2- and Mg2-dependent ATPase activity in both whole cells and cell homogenates, which is consistent with lo- calization of this enzyme in the plasma membrane. C8 ecto-ATPase steady state mRNA levels were increased within 6 hours and for 3 days by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in Sertoli cells but not in peritubular cells. In contrast, dibutyryl-cyclic adenosine monophos- phate (cAMP) increased ecto-ATPase in both Sertoli and peritubular cells. Testosterone had no significant effect under these conditions. These data indicate that ecto-ATPase mRNA is positively regulated by FSH in Sertoli cells and by cAMP in both Sertoli and peritubular cells. This enzyme may play a role in the control of extracellular signaling by ATP, adenosine, or both in the cells of the seminiferous
Powdery mildews (Microsphaera Diffusa) on Godji Beri (Lycium chinense) in the Republic of Macedonia

Goјi berry (Lycium chinense Mill) is a shrub from the family Solanaceae, which includes potatoes and tomatoes, and their main feature is the presence of the alkaloid solanine, which is removed by peeling and thermal processing. Goјi berry originates came from Southeast Asia and mostly grown in China. This culture grows from 1 to 3 meters height, the fruit is reddish in color, with a length of 2 inches and contains 20 to 40 tiny seeds. Studies of the importance of fruits goјi berry confirmed that they contain 18 amino acids that are essential for the body, 21 minerals, all main and secondary vitamins and other ingredients needed to build up the immune system that are prerequisite healthy and long life of man. According to all these, features that this culture brings in medicine known as “RED DIAMONDS”. Bearing in mind the importance of culture as goji berry with many quality fruit, this research gives special emphasis on the appearance of the powdery mildews (Microsphaera diffusa) in goji berry, monitoring during the development of the disease and laboratory diagnosis of the pathogen. This is the first study to highlight the importance of culture as goji berry and problems that occur during its breeding in the Republic of Macedonia. Breeding goji berry on our territory is a newborn and deserves greater attention to the health condition, lest serious consequences occur in production.
"The Savage Heart beneath the Civilized Exterior": Race, Citizenship, and Mental Illness in Washington, D.C., 1900-1940

During the early decades of the twentieth century, William Alanson White and the medical staff at St. Elizabeths Hospital in Washington, D.C. developed an ambitious program for U.S. psychiatry in which the profession would be dedicated to the reconstitution of mentally-fit and socially-productive American citizens. The racist assumptions beneath this program led most psychiatrists at the institution to expect little more than deference, dependence, and common labor from their black patients, preventing them from comprehending the impact of substandard and racially-segregated care. Black men and women were acutely aware of the injustices they faced. When they rejected elements of the hospital's medical regimen, these patients were also rejecting a social vision that consigned them to the margins of American civic life.
Efficacy and feasibility of a novel tri-modal robust exercise prescription in a retirement community : A randomized, controlled trial

Objectives: To test the feasibility and efficacy of current guidelines for multimodal exercise programs in older adults. Design: Randomized, controlled trial. Setting: Retirement village. Participants: Thirty-eight subjects (14 men and 24 women) aged 76.6 +/- 6.1. Intervention: A wait list control or 10 weeks of supervised exercise consisting of high-intensity (80% of one-repetition maximum (1RM)) progressive resistance training (PRT) 3 days per week, moderate-intensity (rating of perceived exertion 11 to 14/20) aerobic training 2 days per week, and progressive balance training 1 day per week. Measurements: Blinded assessments of dynamic muscle strength (1RM), balance, 6-minute walk, gait velocity, chair stand, stair climb, depressive symptoms, self-efficacy, and habitual physical activity level. Results: Higher baseline strength and psychological well-being were associated with better functional performance. Strength gains over 10 weeks averaged 39+/-31% in exercise, versus 21+/-24% in controls (P=.10), with greater improvements in hip flexion (P=.01), hip abduction (P=.02), and chest press (P=.04) in the exercise group. Strength adaptations were greatest in exercises in which the intended continuous progressive overload was achieved. Stair climb power (12.3+/-15%, P=.002) and chair stand time (-7.1+/-15%, P=.006) improved significantly and similarly in both groups. Reduction in depressive symptoms was significantly related to compliance (attendance rate r=-0.568, P=.009, PRT progression in loading r=-0.587, P=.02, and total volume of aerobic training r=-0.541, P=.01), as well as improvements in muscle strength (r=-0.498, P=.002). Conclusion: Robust physical and psychological adaptations to exercise are linked, although volumes and intensities of multiple exercise modalities sufficient to cause significant adaptation appear difficult to prescribe and adhere to simultaneously in older adults.
Stochastic statecharts and rapid prototype software architecture

Stochastic statecharts are introduced as an attractive means for precisely representing the reactive behavior of complex nondeterministic systems. Such representation centers on absolute real time, concurrency, and stochastic effects. The characterization of stochastic effects entails modest yet significant higher-level statechart notational changes to both the statechart graphical conventions and the transition rule syntax extensions. Appreciable latitude is afforded in expressing differing probability distributions and parameters, for the primary emphasis is on modeling power rather than on analytical tractability. An example of an on-line transaction processing system is used to illustrate the inclusion of stochastic effects. These are in the form of absolute timing variability and probabilistic process decisions. The richness and complexity of such models, moreover, suggest the need for prototyping as a practical necessity in their assessment. Although the modularity of statecharts yields naturally partitioned specifications, their mapping to highly modular prototypes can be rather problematic for higher-level statecharts. This stems largely from the appreciable coupling among distinct threads of control, and in turn the complexity of prototype software interfaces. To redress such difficulties, a new software prototype structuring approach and architecture are described. They facilitate software prototype development as well as software component reuse. >
Urinary cytology in female genital cancer.

Abstract Stimulated by a report that 89 per cent of patients with cancer of the uterine cervix showed malignant cells in the urine sediment, the present study was undertaken to evaluate urinary cytology as a means of early cancer detection. In 350 patients both vaginal smears and urinary sediments were examined; of 69 cases of genital cancer, 67 revealed significant findings on vaginal smear as compared to 29 in urine specimens. The urine cytology was of little diagnostic value in noninvasive cervical carcinomas—only one case was reported positive and one as doubtful from the 13 cases in this class. Eighteen of 38 invasive cervical carcinomas revealed malignant cells in the urine specimens. For other tumors also the urine cytology was found to be of limited value. The procedure may be of use as a supplement to and not as a substitute for more direct cytologic examination.
The DEEP Project

DEEP is a multi-institutional program designed to undertake a major new spectroscopic survey of faint field galaxies with the Keck II 10-m telescope. The scientific goals are broad and include exploring galaxy formation and evolution, mapping the large scale structure at moderate to high redshifts, and constraining the nature and distribution of dark matter and cosmology. Besides the primary goal of securing large numbers of redshifts (10, 000 + ) to very faint limits of I ~ 23, DEEP intends to acquire spectra of high enough quality and spectral resolution to extract rotation curves, velocity dispersions, age estimates, and chemical abundances for a brighter subset of galaxies. A new imaging spectrograph for Keck called DEIMOS has been specifically designed to achieve these goals and is currently scheduled for completion by the end of 1998. DEIMOS will provide anoverall gain for multi-object spectroscopy of about 7x compared to the current low-resolution spectrograph (LRIS). While awaiting for DEIMOS to be operational, the interim DEEP science programs have been diverse, but largely concentrated on spectroscopy of faint galaxies observed with HST, especially in the “Groth Strip” and Hubble Deep Field (HDF) and its flanking fields. Recent highlights include redshift and kinematic studies of compact galaxies, high redshift (z ~ 3) galaxies, and distantspirals.
Execution of a high level real-time language

Prototype system description language is a high-level real-time language with special features for hard real-time system specification and design. It can be used to firm up requirements through execution of its software prototypes. The language design is based on a real-time model merging data and control flow, and its implementation is beyond conventional compiler technology because of the need to meet real-time constraints. A special scheme used to meet the hard real-time constraints and the guidelines used to implement such a language in the target language Ada are described and illustrated. The required software tools for automated translation and scheduling are also discussed. These tools have been designed, and a prototype version has been partially implemented. >
Approaching Lincoln's second inaugural address

(1988). Approaching Lincoln's second inaugural address. Communication Reports: Vol. 1, No. 1, pp. 9-13.
Transport modelling of biological tracers from septic systems

The potential of contamination of individual ground water supplies from septic systems was investigated. Chloride (Cl) and electrical conductivity (Ce) as tracers of chemicals and indicator bacteria—total coliforms (TC), fecal coliforms (FC) and fecal streptococci (FS)—were determined for 7 months in septic tank effluent and ground water samples collected downgradient from 17 new or replacement septic systems. Indicator bacteria were also determined occasionally in ground water samples from wells near the systems for a continuing period of 2 years. Following 5 years of system operation a last round of analyses was conducted. Water table fluctuations in the vicinity of the septic systems were monitored for 2 years. As a model for viruses, poliovirus in feces from babies who had received the trivalent Sabin oral poliovirus vaccine was introduced into one septic system as a single dose by flushing stools down the toilet. Effluent and ground water were assayed for poliovirus over a period of approx. 6 months. The data were evaluated statistically and a biological contaminant transport model was tested to simulate ground water contamination by the tracers of pathogens. No tracer bacteria reached ground water from any of the 17 septic systems. Presumably, the bacteria were removed by the soil under the seepage bed; mean transport was < 1 count/100 ml for each bacterial type, in keeping with U.S. drinking water regulations. Poliovirus entered and spread in ground water from the one septic system tested, even though this system was functioning properly. Of 3.3 × 108 PFU of poliovirus inoculated into the septic tank, a mean of 70 PFU/100 ml escaped from the tank with the effluent and an overall mean of 62 PFU/100 ml were transported to ground water. Septic systems had little influence on water table fluctuations in their vicinity, compared to the seasonal climatic factors.
The testing method of data transmission services of IEC 61850 based client

Substation Automation System based on IEC 61850 mainly is working its own performance throughout data communication among human machine interface as a client and a number of IEDs as servers. Both of them need verifying the conformance of IEC 61850 communication services because SAS can work under the strict assurance of their interoperability. UCA has already established conformance test procedures for IEC 61850 based server, otherwise, there is no test way for the client. So this paper presents the testing method of data transmission services such as client report function.
Studies on mutagenesis and repair induced by platinum analogs.

Abstract Mutagenesis and cytotoxicity were studied in Escherichia coli by iproplatin and carboplatin, two analogs of cisplatin (CDDP) currently undergoing clinical trial. As with CDDP, mutagenesis by these agents was mediated by the umuDC gene product. In contrast to CDDP, however, mismatch repair did not substantially contribute to survival of cells after exposure to these agents since dam-3 E. coli were not more sensitive than wild type E. coli, UvrA − E. coli , however were more sensitive to these analogs demonstrating that as with CDDP, uvr endonuclease-mediated excision contributes to the repair of DNA damage induced by platinum compounds.
The Epidemiology of Pancreatitis and Pancreatic Cancer

Acute pancreatitis is one of the most frequent gastrointestinal causes of hospital admission in the United States. Chronic pancreatitis, although lower in incidence, significantly reduces patients' quality of life. Pancreatic cancer is associated with a high mortality rate and is one of the top 5 causes of death from cancer. The burden of pancreatic disorders is expected to increase over time. The risk and etiology of pancreatitis differ with age and sex, and all pancreatic disorders affect the black population more than any other race. Gallstones are the most common cause of acute pancreatitis, and early cholecystectomy eliminates the risk of future attacks. Alcohol continues to be the single most important risk factor for chronic pancreatitis. Smoking is an independent risk factor for acute and chronic pancreatitis, and its effects could synergize with those of alcohol. Significant risk factors for pancreatic cancer include smoking and non-O blood groups. Alcohol abstinence and smoking cessation can alter the progression of pancreatitis and reduce recurrence; smoking cessation is the most effective strategy to reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer.
Package technology evaluation and optimization for high-speed applications

This paper analyzes the electrical performance of standard and coreless packages up-to 100Gbps data rate. The impact of package design attributes e.g. substrate core thickness, plated through hole (PTH) pad dimension and geometry of second level interconnect (SLI) on insertion loss performance are explored in this study. This study also evaluates the electrical performance of an alternative coreless package solution with metal grid array (MGA) SLI to enable ultra-thin and small form factor electronic devices. In addition to the advantages of configurable and scalable SLI geometry, the full-wave electromagnetic simulation results shows significant insertion loss performance improvement with MGA coreless package as the frequency increases. The root-causes of insertion loss degradations among the evaluated packaging solutions were identified and further discussed in this paper.
The rationale behind the use of diet and dietary ingredients to lower blood cholesterol levels

Abstract High blood cholesterol levels are one of the major controllable risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Reducing dietary fat intake or increasing dietary fiber intake can decrease blood cholesterol levels and, hence, susceptibility to cardiovascular disease. Reducing dietary cholesterol intake will also influence blood cholesterol levels, but not as effectively as reducing fat intake. However, dietary modification alone is not sufficient for all people. Nor are optimum dietary cholesterol levels a simple matter of ‘the lower the better’; extremely low blood cholesterol levels also appear to be harmful. Whether and how best to lower blood cholesterol levels remains a subject of intense discussion.
Locomotion, cognition and influences of nutrition in ageing

Gait and cognitive impairments in older adults can reflect the simultaneous existence of two syndromes that affect certain brain substrates and pathologies. Nutritional deficiencies, which are extremely common among elderly population worldwide, have potential to impact the existence and rehabilitation of both syndromes. Gait and cognition are controlled by brain circuits which are vulnerable to multiple age-related pathologies such as vascular diseases, inflammation and dementias that may be caused or accentuated by poor nutrition or deficiencies that lead to cognitive, gait or combined cognitive and gait impairments. The following review aims to link gait and cognitive classifications and provide an overview of the potential impact of nutritional deficiencies on both neurological and gait dysfunctions. The identification of common modifiable risk factors, such as poor nutrition, may serve as an important preventative strategy to reduce cognitive and mobility impairments and moderate the growing burden of dementia and disability worldwide.
Theory of melting of the triple helix poly (A + 2U) for a 1 : 2 mixture of Poly A to Poly U

The Zimm-Bragg theory is extended to treat the melting of the triple helix poly (A + 2U) for a solution with a 1 : 2 mole ratio of poly A to poly U. Only the case for long chains is considered. For a given set of parameters the theory predicts the fraction of segments in the triple helix, double helix, and random coil states as a function of temperature. Four nucleation parameters are introduced to describe the two order–disorder transitions (poly (A + 2U) ⇄ poly A + 2 poly U and poly (A + U) ⇄ poly A + poly U) and the single order–order transition (poly (A + 2U) ⇄ poly (A + U) + poly U). A relation between the nucleation parameters is obtained which reduces the number of independent parameters to three. A method for determining these parameters from experiment is presented. From the previously published data of Blake, Massoulie and Fresco8 for [Na+] = 0.04, we find σT = 6.0 × 10−4, σD = 1.0 × 10−3, and σσ* = 1.5 × 10−3. σT and σD are the nucleation parameters for nucleating a triple helix and double helix, respectively, from a random coil region. σσ* is the nucleation parameter for nucleating a triple helix from a double helix and a single strand. Melting curves are generated from the theory and compared with the experimental melting curves.
Multiagent systems and semantic services for very large-scale participatory design

There are a number of important societal problems that resist conventional, i.e., centralized, solutions. The problems affect the management of our economic systems, climate, energy systems, transportation systems, telecommunication systems, and infrastructure. They are characterized as being distributed and many-faceted, with a large number of interdependent components. For example, the routes of trains and automobile traffic are designed centrally and statically by transportation engineers, rather than designed in real time by the passengers being transported. Allowing the passengers to be responsible for the transportation system constitutes a form of design that is: • Large-scale, because of the size of the system being designed and the number of designers • Spatially distributed, in terms of both the system and the designers • Temporally distributed, because the design of the system evolves over time and the designers interact with it over a long time period • Participatory, although not necessarily cooperative. There are many similar examples where design is typically done in a centralized manner, but could be done much better in a distributed manner. How can this sort of design be supported? It requires a form of consensus, semantic mediation, and intelligent distributed support. In this talk I will describe how large-scale distributed design can be done with the aid of multiagent systems that produce consensus.
Incidental findings on CT for suspected renal colic in emergency department patients: prevalence and types in 5,383 consecutive examinations.

Abstract Purpose This study aimed to determine the prevalence, importance, and types of incidental findings (IF) in non-enhanced CT scans performed for suspected renal colic, based on ACR white papers and other accepted radiographic recommendations. Methods Retrospective review of 5,383 consecutive finalized reports of nonenhanced CT using renal colic protocol performed on adult patients at 2 emergency departments over a 5.5-year period. IF were defined as those unrelated to symptoms (as opposed to alternate causes of symptoms) and were categorized as "important" if follow-up was recommended based on recently published consensus recommendations. Subsets of reports of those with important IF were blindly re-reviewed to calculate inter-rater variability for presence and categorization of important IF. Results Important IF were identified in 12.7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 11.8%-13.6%) of scans. Prevalence of important IF increased with age: important IF in individuals age >80 years were 4 times more common than for those aged 18-30 years: 28.9% (95% CI: 22.4%-36.4%) versus 6.9% (95% CI: 5.5%-8.6%), respectively, P ≤ .05. Women had a higher prevalence of important IF compared with men: 13.4% (95% CI: 12.2%-14.7%) versus 11.9% (95% CI: 10.7%-13.2%), but the difference was not statically significant ( P = .09). There was substantial inter-rater agreement (kappa ≥ 0.69) regarding presence and classification of important IFs using published guidelines. Conclusions Important IF occurred in 12.7% of non-enhanced CT scans performed for suspected renal colic in the emergency department and are more common in older individuals. Prospective studies that use radiographic recommendations to characterize IF and examine the outcome and cost of their workup are encouraged.
Emeritus Professors, undergraduates and sensors systems

This celebration for Professor Ingemar Lundstrom on the occasion of his commencement as a Professor Emeritus deservedly recounts his distinguished career as educator, innovator and leader in the development of sensor science and technology. We discuss the potentially important contributions that emeritus professors can make through involving undergraduates in multi-disciplinary, cross-cutting (MDCC or 1700) research areas. Some examples are presented.
How to judge a tumor marker.

Evaluating the prognostic value of a tumor marker is an important component of oncology research and has an important impact on treatment decisions. The authors discuss whether the usual statistical approach used to assess prognostic markers can enhance predictive accuracy, and they describe the merits of a more direct approach.
CT Angiography of Renal Arteriovenous Fistulae: A Report of Two Cases

Renal arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are rare abnormal communications between the arterial and venous circulations that can be congenital or acquired. We describe the multidetector computed tomography angiography (MDCTA) appearance of 2 cases of renal AVF, one with the cirsoid and one with the aneurysmal subtype, and the impact of these findings on therapeutic decision making and treatment follow-up.
Measurements of Combustor Velocity and Turbulence Profiles

The axial and swirl velocity and turbulence profiles downstream of a small-scale combustor were measured using a Laser Doppler Velocimeter. The effects of combustor geometry (nozzle swirl and liner mixing and dilution holes), operating conditions (mass flow and pressure) and combustion were independently examined. For the combustion tests, the combustor exit temperature profiles were also measured with an insertion thermocouple.The normalized velocity profiles showed no effect of mass flow, pressure or overall velocity on the combustor exit profiles. For the low-swirl fuel nozzle, levels of turbulence were fairly constant without or with combustion. However, with the high-swirl fuel nozzle, the level of swirl decreased as the firing temperature increased (to conserve angular momentum). The effect of swirl reduction could also be seen in the turbulence levels which also decreased. This showed that the mean swirl was generating much of the turbulence. It was also found from testing various combustor geometries that the dilution jets significantly disrupted and thereby reduced the level of swirl exiting from the combustor.Copyright © 1993 by ASME
An analysis of the role of the study of the African Diaspora within the field of Atlantic history

This article is a quantitative study of the percentage of recent Atlantic World scholarship that focuses on the African Diaspora. This is accomplished by analyzing monograph, article, and PhD dissertation production in the fields of Atlantic and African Diaspora history. The article begins with an overview of the origins of Atlantic History and African Diaspora History and concludes with some thoughts on what the data reveal for both fields.
The family experience of deinstitutionalization: Insights from the closing of central state hospital

Since the early 1970s, policy makers and researchers have expressed concern about the potential negative consequences of deinstitutionalization on families. This article summarizes results of a survey of family and lay caregivers of patients discharged from Central State Hospital, which closed in June 1994. The survey was designed to assess the impact of the closing on family members, including their attitudes, caregiving responsibilities, and involvement in the treatment of the patients. Results indicate that family members have mixed feelings about the closure. Family caregivers also reported that they have not been asked to take on significant amounts of the caregiving responsibilities since the clients were moved from the hospital. Family members described a significant reduction in the frequency of contact they had with their loved ones and with professional caregivers since the closure. Implications for behavioral health policy makers considering or planning closing or downsizing long-term care facilities are discussed.
Integrating Other Subject Matter Without Jeopardizing Physical Education Goals: The Content Linkage Approach

(2008). Integrating Other Subject Matter Without Jeopardizing Physical Education Goals: The Content Linkage Approach. Strategies: Vol. 22, No. 1, pp. 10-17.
Item-based analysis of delayed reward discounting decision making

Delayed reward discounting (DRD) is a behavioral economic index of time preference, referring to how much an individual devalues a reward based on its delay in time, and has been linked to a wide array of health behaviors. It is commonly assessed using a task that asks participants to make dichotomous choices between two monetary rewards, one available immediately and the other after a delay. This study sought to shorten an extended iterative DRD assessment to increase its versatility and efficiency. Data were drawn from two young adult samples, an exploratory sample (N = 130) and a confirmatory sample (N = 247). In the exploratory sample, eight items were identified as predicting the majority of the variance in the full task area under the curve (AUC) (R2 = .821; p < .001). In the confirmatory sample, the same eight items similarly predicted the majority of variance in the full task AUC (R2 = .844, p < .001). These results provide initial support for the validity of a brief 8-item assessment of DRD. Priorities for further validation and potential applications are discussed.
Perilipin Expression in Human Adipose Tissues: Effects of Severe Obesity, Gender, and Depot

Objective: Perilipins are phosphoproteins that are localized to the surface of triacylglycerol droplets within adipocytes where they regulate the rate of lipolysis. We sought to determine the effects of severe obesity and depot [omental (Om) vs. subcutaneous (Sc)] on perilipin expression in the adipose tissue of individuals. Research Methods and Procedures: Samples of Om and Sc adipose tissues obtained at surgery from severely obese subjects and fat aspirations from nonobese subjects were analyzed for perilipin protein and mRNA levels by Northern and Western analysis. Results: Perilipin A (periA) was the major perilipin expressed in adipose tissues. periA mRNA relative abundance was significantly lower in Sc adipose tissue from severely obese compared to that from nonobese subjects. Western blotting of adipose tissue extracts showed that periA protein levels expressed relative to tissue protein or fat cell surface area were significantly lower (∼ −40%) in abdominal Sc adipose tissue from severely obese compared to that from nonobese subjects. However, the calculated mass of perilipin per fat cell did not differ between the two groups. Perilipin mRNA levels were higher in Sc compared to Om adipose tissue from obese individuals (p < 0.025; n = 26; 17 women, 9 men); however, periA protein levels did not differ. In addition, perilipin protein, but not mRNA, levels were higher in Sc adipose tissue from obese men than from women (p < 0.025). Discussion: Variations in perilipin expression may contribute to the higher basal lipolytic rates observed in obese compared to nonobese individuals and in obese women compared to obese men.
Impact of Anti-Thymocyte Globulin During Immunosuppression Induction in Patients with Hepatitis C After Liver Transplantation

Induction immunosuppression with anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) provides potential benefits after liver transplantation (LT). However, its use in patients with LT and hepatitis C (HCV) is controversial. To evaluate the 1- and 2-year patient survival and HCV recurrence rate in patients receiving ATG during the induction phase of immunosuppression (IPI) after LT. A total of 49 patients undergoing their first LT for HCV were randomized to receive ATG during IPI. Patient survival and HCV recurrence were determined at 1 and 2 years. The frequency of acute cellular rejection (ACR), infections, and neoplasms was also evaluated. Twenty-six patients were randomized to receive ATG (Arm-1) and 23 to standard induction therapy (Arm-2). Those given ATG had lower HCV recurrence (26.9 vs 73.9 %, p = 0.001). The 1- and 2-year patient survival rates were similar for both arms (p = 0.33). Infections occurred in 46.1 % subjects in Arm-1 and 34.7 % in Arm-2 (p = 0.562). There was a greater proportion of fungal infections in Arm-1 (19.2 vs 0 %, p = 0.032). ATG during the IPI was associated with lower frequency of recurrence of HCV in patients undergoing LT. This, however, did not affect the 1- and 2-year survival and the frequency of ACR, infections, or neoplasms.
An existence theorem for a singular third-order boundary value problem on [0,+∞)

Abstract An existence result for a singular third-order boundary value problem is proved in this work. Here the nonlinearity is of the form f ( y ) = ( 1 − y ) λ g ( y ) , where λ > 0 and g ( y ) is continuous and positive on ( 0 , 1 ] , and the boundary conditions are y ( 0 ) = 0 , y ( + ∞ ) = 1 , y ′ ( + ∞ ) = y ″ ( + ∞ ) = 0 . The problem arises in the study of draining and coating flows.
N-Cadherin-Mediated Signaling Regulates Cell Phenotype for Nucleus Pulposus Cells of the Intervertebral Disc

Juvenile nucleus pulposus (NP) cells of the intervertebral disc (IVD) are large, vacuolated cells that form cell clusters with strong cell–cell interactions. With maturation and aging, NP cells lose their ability to form these cell clusters, with aging-associated changes in NP cell phenotype, morphology, and proteoglycan synthesis that may contribute to IVD degeneration. Therefore, it is important to understand the mechanisms governing juvenile NP cell cluster behavior towards the goal of revealing factors that can promote juvenile, healthy NP cell phenotypes. N-cadherin has been identified as a cell–cell adhesion marker that is present in juvenile NP cells, but disappears with age. The goal of this study was to reveal the importance of N-cadherin in regulating cell–cell interactions in juvenile NP cell cluster formation and test for a regulatory role in maintaining a juvenile NP phenotype in vitro. Juvenile porcine IVD cells, of notochordal origin, were promoted to form cell clusters in vitro, and analyzed for preservation of the juvenile NP phenotype. Additionally, cadherin-blocking experiments were performed to prevent cluster formation in order to study the importance of cluster formation in NP cell signaling. Findings reveal N-cadherin-mediated cell–cell contacts promote cell clustering behavior and regulate NP cell matrix production and preservation of NP-specific markers. Inhibition of N-cadherin-mediated contacts resulted in loss of all features of the juvenile NP cell. These results establish a regulatory role for N-cadherin in juvenile NP cells, and suggest that preservation of the N-cadherin mediated cell–cell contact is important for preserving juvenile NP cell phenotype and morphology.
Natural structure in the man-made environment

The paper contains examples of design elements and natural symmetries that have appeared and are now being used in man-made works. The pleasing principles of symmetric structures have been shown in examples of architectural ornament, planning of towns and university campuses. These same symmetries are shown to give coherence to the growth of forms in nature. The paper further discusses how different artists have arrived at their particular choices of natural symmetries to be used whether in planning, architectural structures, town clusters or painting.
Community‐based justice and violence against women: Issues of gender and race

In Canada, as in numerous other countries, the criminal justice system has been increasingly criticized. Numerous calls for reforms to the system and for community‐based alternatives have been advanced. This article explores various issues surrounding the responses to violence against women. The first section highlights the enormity of the problem of battered women. The second section briefly examines some of the issues surrounding the criminal justice system in responding to violence against women. The third and largest section will explore issues concerning violence against women and community‐based justice initiatives. This section is divided into three subsections which relate to the three key issues that will be discussed: inclusion of women; protection and safety of women; and power and control. The discussion will draw upon insights from feminists and women's advocates, particularly in relation to their critiques of mediation. I will also draw upon materials concerning violence against Aboriginal w...
Focal Spot Size Of X-Ray Tubes: A Systems Approach

I must assume that all of us here are fully aware that the prevailing practice with manufacturers of x-ray tubes is to mislabel their products. Similarly, I am sure that all or most of us here know that appallingly few radiologists have been aware of this practice of mislabeling of x-ray tubes with regard to focal spot size. For many years I was one of the vast majority of radiologists who believed what I read on the label. I accepted the label designation "1.0-2.0" or "0.3" as a mathe-matically accurate description of focal spot size of the x-ray tube to which the label was affixed. Some 4 years ago I discovered otherwise. For the past three years I have been probing the boundaries of the practical consequences of this mis-labeling. Important facets of mislabeling include the clinical side effects: The important need for informing the profession, and, inevitably, the process of redress necessary to attain accurate or real world labeling of x-ray tubes.© (1975) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Helping patients with diabetes: Resources from the National Diabetes Education Program

Abstract Objectives To familiarize pharmacists with the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) and to demonstrate the value of NDEP materials in the care of patients with diabetes. Data sources The NDEP website (www.ndep.nih.gov) and PubMed (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed). Summary NDEP is a collaboration between the National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and many organization partners. Since 1997, a large number of materials have been created byNDEP using an evidence-based, expert- and patient-reviewed approach to development. Materials are nonbranded and reflect current medical knowledge and practice. Educational materials are available for persons at risk for diabetes, those with diabetes, family members of persons with diabetes, employers, and professionals. The Pharmacy, Podiatry, Optometry, and Dentistry (PPOD) workgroup ofNDEP promotes the value of pharmacists and other professionals in diabetes education and management. Resources are available to educate about the value of the PPOD professionals. Conclusion NDEPprovides evidence-based, high-quality educational materials that pharmacists will find useful in the counseling of persons with diabetes.
Melodramatic Music in the Western

The Western film developed from a variety of sources, including written and visual sources, such as the classic and dime novels, as well as paintings and photographs. Eventually these were dramatized with live action in the rodeo, Wild West shows, and on stage, particularly in melodramas. In his history of the Western film, David Lusted points out, “Whether gunfighter or outlaw criminal, cowboy or sheriff, the Western hero is invariably a romantic hero of melodrama.” The Western owes a great deal to melodrama, not the least of which is the music that usually accompanies it. Owing to the substantial amount of action and infrequent dialogue, Westerns particularly rely on music to convey excitement, tension, and all the other emotions so necessary to their popularity. As exhibited in the collections of photoplay music and silent film cue sheets, the Western film score appropriated many of the musical cliches that accompanied the staged works of the late nineteenth century. This presentation will begin to trace the history of the music that accompanied the Western narrative from the stage to the screen, demonstrating how many of the aural clues that enhance our enjoyment of this genre today have their roots in late nineteenth century melodrama.
Evaluation of Four Intermediate Wheatgrass Populations under Grazing

The grazing season in the central and northern Great Plains could be extended by use of adapted cool-season grass pastures for spring and fall grazing to augment the native warm-season range. A grazing trial was conducted to evaluate the forage quality of four intermediate wheatgrass [Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkw. & D.R. Dewey] populations for use in forage-livestock systems. The cultivars Slate and Oahe and two populations selected for improved IVDMD, 'Manska'and NE TI 1, were evaluated. Each population was seeded in the fall of 1987 in three replicated 0.4-ha pastures arranged in a randomized complete block design. Pastures were stocked with three beef yearlings for 28 d in spring 1989 and 42 d in spring 1990 to provide a stocking rate of 7.5 steers ha -1 . Duration of grazing was shorter in 1989 because of inadequate soil moisture. Average daily gain (ADG) and gain per hectare were higher (P ≤ 0.10) in 1989 than 1990, despite the lower (P ≤ 0.10) forage availability and lesser number of grazing days in 1989. Steers grazing Manska in 1989 gained 1.59 kg d -1 , compared with 1A2, 1.27, and 1.43 for Oahe, Slate, and NE TI 1, respectively. There were no differences (P > 0.10) in ADG or gain per hectare among populations in 1990. The improvement in ADG resulted in 30 to 65 kg more gain per hectare from Manska compared with the other populations in 1989. These results demonstrate the excellent quality of intermediate wheatgrass for grazing livestock and the impact that modest improvements in forage quality can have on animal performance.
Human Cerberus prevents nodal-receptor binding, inhibits nodal signaling, and suppresses nodal-mediated phenotypes.

The Transforming Growth Factor-s (TGFs) family ligand Nodal is an essential embryonic morphogen that is associated with progression of breast and other cancers. It has therefore been suggested that Nodal inhibitors could be used to treat breast cancers where Nodal plays a defined role. As secreted antagonists, such as Cerberus, tightly regulate Nodal signaling during embryonic development, we undertook to produce human Cerberus, characterize its biochemical activities, and determine its effect on human breast cancer cells. Using quantitative methods, we investigated the mechanism of Nodal signaling, we evaluated binding of human Cerberus to Nodal and other TGFs family ligands, and we characterized the mechanism of Nodal inhibition by Cerberus. Using cancer cell assays, we examined the ability of Cerberus to suppress aggressive breast cancer cell phenotypes. We found that human Cerberus binds Nodal with high affinity and specificity, blocks binding of Nodal to its signaling partners, and inhibits Nodal signaling. Moreover, we showed that Cerberus profoundly suppresses migration, invasion, and colony forming ability of Nodal expressing and Nodal supplemented breast cancer cells. Taken together, our studies provide mechanistic insights into Nodal signaling and Nodal inhibition with Cerberus and highlight the potential value of Cerberus as anti-Nodal therapeutic.
Nest-site selection in Savannah sparrows: using gulls as scarecrows?☆

Abstract Savannah sparrows, Passerculus sandwichensis breeding on Kent Island, New Brunswick, Canada, have two types of nest predators, one of them (herring gulls, Larus argentatus ) abundant but relatively ineffective, the other (American crows, Corvus brachyrhynchos ) scarce but highly effective. We hypothesized that the net effect for Savannah sparrows of nesting near gulls would be to reduce the overall risk of nest predation. Despite being surrounded by predators, the eggs and offspring of sparrows that nested among gulls survived as well during the incubation and post-fledging periods as did those of sparrows that did not nest among gulls. During the nestling period, sparrows nesting among gulls had significantly lower predation rates. In defending their own nests from predatory crows, gulls apparently shielded nearby sparrows from the more dangerous predator. Experiments with model predators demonstrated that sparrows reacted to gulls as potential predators of their eggs and nestlings. Sparrows apparently recognized crows as a far greater threat, however. The tendency to nest near gulls appeared not to be heritable or influenced by early experience. Sparrows nesting among gulls were indistinguishable from sparrows nesting away from gulls in terms of body size, age and date of nesting. By choosing nest sites in microhabitats that gulls avoided, such as dense patches of goldenrod and blueberry, and by adopting more cautious approaches to their nests, sparrows nesting near gulls reduced their risk of predation by gulls. The density of Savannah sparrow nests was inversely correlated with the density of gull nests, which suggests that sparrows avoided gulls despite the apparent advantage in terms of reduced nest predation by crows. A strong nesting association between gulls and birds like Savannah sparrows is unlikely to evolve because of the low heritability of the trait, gene flow from other populations where avoiding gulls and other potential predators is selectively advantageous, and constraints on short-lived birds in learning to differentiate situations in which a predator presents a threat from those in which it provides protection.