cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
1719f Occupational health services in india: challenges and opportunities

The occupational safety and health (OSH) scenario in India is complex while catering to the needs of 63% productive age group with, 92.38% of this working in the informal economy, predominantly, agriculture and services and facing a triple burden of Non-communicable and Communicable diseases and Violence, Injuries. No comprehensive legislation for occupational health and safety exists that covers all the economic sectors except for mining, manufacturing, ports, and construction sectors. Factories Act, 1948 has been unable to build up the workers’ rights against occupational diseases and related hazards, with over 90% of Indian labour falling outside its purview. OSH services in informal sector are non-existent and dysfunctional, depriving these workers of basic occupational health care. Further, occupational health is not integrated with primary health care, falling under the Ministry of Labour, and not the Ministry of Health. Newer service industries like Information Technology (IT), Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) are increasing rapidly; so is the proportion of females in the workforce, multiple job changes/insecurity and increasing numbers of migrant workers adding to job-related stress. Major challenges are: Lack of National OSH Policy, legislation and mechanisms for provision of Occupational health services for Informal/unorganised sector and SMEs, Apathy & lack of sensitisation about OSH among stakeholders and stakeholder networks/linkages, Inadequate OSH infrastructure and OSH professional capacities to manage emerging health risks, Addressing the NCD burden through Workplace Wellness Movement. Opportunities are: Utilisation of primary health care ecosystem for delivery of BOHS for informal sector, Accreditation Mechanism under Ministry of Labour, Regulatory framework under Factories’ Act and governance apparatus under National Skills’ Mission to develop requisite OSH human resources, Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives to set up Risk Observatory Mechanisms with multi–sectoral linkages.
Infectious Bronchitis Virus S2 Gene Sequence Variability May Affect S1 Subunit Specific Antibody Binding

The S2 gene of several strains of infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) belonging to the Arkansas, Connecticut, and Florida serotypes was sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis of the S2 gene nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequence data resulted in groups of strains that were the same as groupings observed when S1 sequence data was used. Thus, it appears that S2 subunits are conserved within a serotype but not between serotypes. Although the sequence differences were small, we found that only a few amino acid differences were responsible for different secondary structure predictions for the S2 subunit. It is likely that these changes create different interactions between the S1 and S2 subunits, which could affect the conformation of the S1 subunit where serotype specific epitopes are located. Based on this sequence data, we hypothesize that the S2 subunit can affect specific antibody binding to the S1 subunit of the IBV spike glycoprotein.
Experimental Investigation of Surface Acoustic Wave Acoustoelectric Effect Using a Graphene Film on Lithium Niobate

Experimental results of the measured surface acoustic wave (SAW) acoustoelectric effect (AE) using single-layer thin-film graphene on 128°, $Y$ -cut, and $X$ -propagating lithium niobate (128-LN) are presented. The use of an AE amplifier in SAW communication devices, especially in gigahertz bands, could make fundamental advancements in radios, sensors, and other applications. Experimental results at 1350 MHz show the delay line asymmetry of 3 dB, given as the ratio of the forward versus reverse peak SAW frequency response, with an applied dc voltage on the graphene film.
American Evil: A Response to Kleinfeld on Punishment

Joshua Kleinfeld argues that American moral understandings are reflected in its system of criminal justice. Far more than Europeans, Americans regard those who have committed crimes as irretrievably defective people whom it is appropriate to lock away for many years. American law regards even minor and first-time criminals as having an unchangeable disposition of hostility or depraved indifference toward all that is good. This paper argues that under either of these understandings of the term, the American criminal justice system itself is evil.
Propagation Analysis in Support of Wireless Spacecraft Capability

Wireless technologies have been widely applied in many communication systems on Earth to enhance the transmission data rate, improve the receiving signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR), and increase the channel capacity. For flight mission and spacecraft design, reliable wireless systems will expand the scientific applications and research opportunities of planetary explorations. To retire key risks to use of wireless technologies in spacecraft design and space applications, in this research, we analyze its capability and propagation in the test and operational environments including thermal chamber and on-board of a rover at JPL Mars yard. The software-based wireless system consists a transmitting antenna, two receiving antennas, and a software defined radio, which enable one to transmit and receive multiple frequency band wireless signals with different modulations and a flexible data rate. Here, we summarize the signal propagation analysis of different test and operational scenarios. The propagation analysis demonstrates that the design of two receiving antennas provides about 20 dB improvement in the received power comparing to the single-antenna result. Additionally, the chamber test result shows significant multipath effects observed from the data collected from the two scenarios: 1) transmitting and receiving antennas are inside of the chamber, and 2) the inside-chamber receiving antennas receive signals from the outside-chamber transmitter. The statistical analysis of the Mars yard test indicates that signal power has relatively small standard deviation for the scenario in which transmitting and receiving antennas are aligned in the line of sight directiaon with a distance. The standard deviations increase for other scenarios that transmitter is set on rover's wheel, and receiving antennas are on the top of the rover probably due to multi-path effects. The investigation of propagation analysis will be beneficial to a design of a reliable wireless system toward the development of the spacecraft wireless networks in support of NASA's future flight missions (such as planetary aerobots, rovers, and spacecraft).
A developmental trajectory supporting the evaluation and achievement of competencies: Articulating the Mastery Rubric for the nurse practitioner (MR-NP) program curriculum.

Background Advanced practice registered nursing (APRN) competencies exist, but there is no structure supporting the operationalization of the competencies by APRN educators. The development of a Mastery Rubric (MR) for APRNs provides a developmental trajectory that supports educational institutions, educators, students, and APRNs. A MR describes the explicit knowledge, skills, and abilities as performed by the individual moving from novice (student) through graduation and into the APRN career. Method A curriculum development tool, the Mastery Rubric (MR), was created to structure the curriculum and career of the nurse practitioner (NP), the MR-NP. Cognitive task analysis (CTA) yielded the first of the three required elements for any MR: a list of knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) to be established through the curriculum. The European guild structure and Bloom’s taxonomy of cognitive behaviors provided the second element of the MR, the specific developmental stages that are relevant for the curriculum. The Body of Work method of standard setting was used to create the third required element of the MR, performance level descriptors (PLDs) for each KSA at each of these stages. Although the CTA was informed by the competencies, it was still necessary to formally assess the alignment of competencies with the resulting KSAs; this was achieved via Degrees of Freedom Analysis (DoFA). Validity evidence was obtained from this Analysis and from the DoFA of the KSAs’ alignment with principles of andragogy, and with learning outcomes assessment criteria. These analyses are the first time the national competencies for the NP have been evaluated in this manner. Results CTA of the 43 NP Competencies led to seven KSAs that support a developmental trajectory for instruction and documenting achievement towards independent performance on the competencies. The Competencies were objectively evaluable for the first time since their publication due to the psychometric validity attributes of the PLD-derived developmental trajectory. Three qualitatively distinct performance levels for the independent practitioner make the previously implicit developmental requirements of the competencies explicit for the first time. Discussion The MR-NP provides the first articulated and observable developmental trajectory for the NP competencies, during and beyond the formal curriculum. A focus on psychometric validity was brought to bear on how learners would demonstrate their development, and ultimately their achievement, of the competencies. The MR-NP goes beyond the competencies with trajectories and PLDs that can engage both learner and instructor in this developmental process throughout the career.
External-energy-assisted nanomachining with low-stiffness atomic force microscopy probes

Abstract Thermal atomic force microscope (AFM) nanolithography enables many nanofabrication applications, but it requires special thermal probes. In this paper, we developed a vibration-assisted sample heating approach to implement the nanomachining of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) with a regular AFM probe with low stiffness (~0.16 N/m). The joule heating softens the PMMA, which lowers the normal force. The in-plane vibration with high frequency was applied to reduce the adhesion force between the AFM tip and the PMMA with elevated temperature, which enhances nanomachining performances. By using this approach, uniform nanopatterns with controllable dimensions were fabricated on PMMA films with small setpoint force.
Combining regression and mixed-integer programming to model counterinsurgency

Counterinsurgencies are a type of violent struggle between state and non-state actors in which one group attempts to gain or maintain influence over a certain portion of the population. When an insurgency (i.e., non-state actor) challenges a host nation (i.e., state actor), often an external counterinsurgent force intervenes. While researchers have categorized insurgencies with social science techniques and United States Army doctrine has established possible counterinsurgency strategies, little research prescribes host nation and counterinsurgent force strength. To this end, we develop a mixed-integer program to provide an estimate of the number of forces required to maximize the probability of a favorable resolution to the counterinsurgent and host nation countries, while minimizing unfavorable resolutions and the number of counterinsurgent deaths. This program integrates: (i) a multivariate piecewise-linear regression model to estimate the number of counterinsurgent deaths each year and (ii) a logistic regression model to estimate the probability of four types of conflict resolution over a 15-year time horizon. Constraints in the model characterize: (i) upper and lower limits on the number of counterinsurgent and host nation forces and their annual rates of increase and decrease, (ii) the characteristics of the type of counterinsurgency, (iii) an estimation of the number of counterinsurgent deaths, and (iv) an estimation of the probability of one of four resolutions. We use Somalia as a case study to estimate how counterinsurgent strategies affect the probability of obtaining each conflict resolution. We conclude that a strategy focusing on building and empowering a stable host nation force provides the highest probability of achieving a positive resolution to the counterinsurgency. Senior leaders can use this information to guide strategic decisions within a counterinsurgency.
Patient frailty as a risk assessment tool in surgical management of long bone fractures.

Abstract Background Frailty is an important predictor of surgical outcomes and has been quantified by several models. The modified frailty index (mFI) has recently been adapted from an 11-item index to a 5-item index and has promise to be a valuable risk assessment tool in orthopedic trauma patients. We perform a retrospective analysis of the 5-item mFI and evaluate its effectiveness in predicting outcomes in patients with long bone fractures. Methods The National Surgery Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) 2006–2016 database was queried for surgical procedures in the treatment of long bone fractures by current procedural terminology (CPT) codes, excluding those performed on metacarpals and metatarsals. Cases were excluded if they were missing demographic, frailty, and variable data. The 5-item frailty index was calculated based on the sum of presence of 5 conditions: COPD/pneumonia, congestive heart failure, diabetes, hypertension, and impaired functional status. Chi square was used to determine variables significantly associated with each outcome. The significant variables were included in multivariate logistic regression along with the mFI. Significance was defined as p Results Of the 140,249 fixation procedures performed on long bone fractures in NSQIP, 109,423 cases remained after exclusion criteria were applied. The majority of patients were between the ages of 61 and 80 (34.0%), were female (65.6%) and Caucasian (86.3%). Multivariate analysis revealed that mFI scores ≥3 were predictive of unplanned reoperation (OR = 1.57), wound disruption (OR = 2.83), unplanned readmission (OR = 2.12), surgical site infection (OR = 1.90), major complications (OR = 3.04), and discharge destination (OR = 3.06). Conclusions Our study analyzed the relationship of frailty and postoperative complications in patients with long bone fractures. Patients had increased likelihood of morbidity, independent of other comorbidities and demographic factors. The mFI may have a role as a simple, easy to use risk assessment tool in cases of orthopedic trauma.
Biomass‐Derived Hybrid Hydrogel Evaporators for Cost‐Effective Solar Water Purification

Solar vapor generation has presented great potential for wastewater treatment and seawater desalination with high energy conversion and utilization efficiency. However, technology gaps still exist for achieving a fast evaporation rate and high quality of water combined with low-cost deployment to provide a sustainable solar-driven water purification system. In this study, a naturally abundant biomass, konjac glucomannan, together with simple-to-fabricate iron-based metal-organic framework-derived photothermal nanoparticles is introduced into the polyvinyl alcohol networks, building hybrid hydrogel evaporators in a cost-effective fashion ($14.9 m-2 of total materials cost). With advantageous features of adequate water transport, effective water activation, and anti-salt-fouling function, the hybrid hydrogel evaporators achieve a high evaporation rate under one sun (1 kW m-2 ) at 3.2 kg m-2 h-1 out of wastewater with wide degrees of acidity and alkalinity (pH 2-14) and high-salinity seawater (up to 330 g kg-1 ). More notably, heavy metal ions are removed effectively by forming hydrogen and chelating bonds with excess hydroxyl groups in the hydrogel. It is anticipated that this study offers new possibilities for a deployable, cost-effective solar water purification system with assured water quality, especially for economically stressed communities.
Workplace Bullying Laws in Asia

This chapter provides a detailed summary of the major labor laws in a few selected countries in Asia. The existing legal ordinances on workplace bullying in the Asian continent, within China, Hong Kong, India, Singapore, South Korea, and Japan, are mentioned in this chapter. It is revealed that the Asian continent with the exemption of Singapore lacks specific labor laws which protect employees from all forms of psychological, physical, and mental harassment and bullying faced at their workplaces. The legal system of Singapore is the most comprehensive, having legal enactments which safeguard employees from all forms of harassment, that is, racial and sexual, cyberbullying, and occupational hazards. While the legal measures for pawahara, or power harassment, provide legal protections for employees in Japan, the other countries in contrast just possess basic laws on sexual harassment and equal employment opportunity regardless of gender, age, and disability.
Prescription Opioid Abuse

Current statistics suggest that the abuse of prescribed opioids is a major problem that is resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. It behooves the oral and maxillofacial surgeon to mitigate this risk by reducing the number of opioid prescriptions. Furthermore, it is important to recognize patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) to ensure that they receive appropriate referral. Several modalities are available to reduce the need for postoperative opioids including multimodal therapy and long-acting local anesthesia.
An Elusive Seizure

We present a case of a healthy 62-year-old woman who developed recurrent seizures preceded by subacute cognitive slowing, ataxia, night sweats, and weight loss. She was found to have cytopenias, mu...
Next-Generation Sequencing as an Auxiliary Tool in Pediatric Laryngeal Lymphoma Diagnosis

Lymphomatous involvement of the larynx is a rare entity. We present a case of atypical laryngotracheitis as the initial manifestation of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in a pediatric patient. The diagnosis was aided through the use of microbial cell-free DNA (mcfDNA) testing, which detected the presence of Epstein-Barr virus in the patient's plasma. This enabled the consideration of an Epstein-Barr virus-related lymphoproliferative process, leading to additional workup and the final diagnosis of lymphoma. To our knowledge, this is the first case of mcfDNA testing leading not simply to an infectious organism, but further to a new oncologic diagnosis. Plasma mcfDNA testing has the potential to inform clinical practice beyond classic infectious disease manifestations. In this article, we review both the possible future applications and the areas of further investigation that remain.
Silicon carbide: A unique platform for metal-oxide-semiconductor physics

A sustainable energy future requires power electronics that can enable significantly higher efficiencies in the generation, distribution, and usage of electrical energy. Silicon carbide (4H-SiC) is one of the most technologically advanced wide bandgap semiconductor that can outperform conventional silicon in terms of power handling, maximum operating temperature, and power conversion efficiency in power modules. While SiC Schottky diode is a mature technology, SiC power Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistors are relatively novel and there is large room for performance improvement. Specifically, major initiatives are under way to improve the inversion channel mobility and gate oxide stability in order to further reduce the on-resistance and enhance the gate reliability. Both problems relate to the defects near the SiO2/SiC interface, which have been the focus of intensive studies for more than a decade. Here we review research on the SiC MOS physics and technology, including its brief history, the state-of-art, and the latest progress in this field. We focus on the two main scientific problems, namely, low channel mobility and bias temperature instability. The possible mechanisms behind these issues are discussed at the device physics level as well as the atomic scale, with the support of published physical analysis and theoretical studies results. Some of the most exciting recent progress in interface engineering for improving the channel mobility and fundamental understanding of channel transport is reviewed.
Targeting proteasomes in antiestrogen resistant breast cancer cells

AACR Annual Meeting-- Apr 14-18, 2007; Los Angeles, CA 1450 The majority of breast tumors are hormone receptors positive and estrogens stimulate their growth. The principle for treating this type of breast cancer is based on blocking the cancer cells from the hormone-induced growth, the goal of antiestrogen therapy. However, there is a sub-population of hormone receptor-positive breast tumors that do not respond to antiestrogen therapy. Almost all of the breast tumors that initially respond to the therapy become resistant. Designing effective treatment for antiestrogen resistance is a big challenge. The proteasome is a complex of proteins with several types of enzyme activities responsible for degradating of many important intracellular proteins. Inhibition proteasome activities would cause the protein accumulation, leading to cell malfunction, eventually cell growth inhibition and cell death. Proteasome inhibitors show anti-tumor activity in many malignancies, including breast cancer. However, the proteasome has not been tested as a therapeutic target in antiestrogen resistant breast cancer. To investigate if proteasome inhibitors exhibit effective anti-tumor activities in antiestrogen resistant breast cancer, we tested the effects of two proteasome inhibitors on proteasome activity and cytotoxicity in antiestrogen sensitive MCF-7, acquired antiestrogen resistant MCF-7/F and de novo antiestrogen resistant MDA-MB-231 cells. Two proteasome inhibitors used in this study are GSI (z-Leu-Leu-Nle-CHO) and MG132 (z-Leu-Leu-Leu-CHO). Cytotoxicity was measured using a MTT assay. The effect on cell growth was assessed by changes in expression of p21waf-1/cip1 and cyclin D1. Early apoptosis was evaluated by PARP cleavage. Proteasome activity was assessed by measuring ubiquitinated protein accumulation. Our results show that the proteasome inhibitors exhibited strong anti-tumor activity in MCF-7, MCF-7/F and MDA-MB-231 cells. The inhibitors inhibited proteasome activities, which correlates with induced p21 and decreased cyclin D1 protein levels in a concentration dependent manner in all three cell lines. However, the proteasome inhibitors might inhibit cell growth via different mechanisms in these cells. The inhibitors down-regulated ER, inhibited MAPK phosphorylation and increased AKT phosphorylation in MCF-7 cells. They induced apoptosis and increase AKT phosphorylation, but had no significant effect on MAPK phosphorylation in MCF-7/F cells. The inhibitors induced obvious apoptosis and inhibited MAPK phosphorylation, but had no detectable effect on AKT in MDA-MB-231 cells. In summary, antiestrogen resistance is a big pitfall of antiestrogen therapy for breast cancer. Here, our results suggest a possible therapeutic strategy by targeting proteasomes as a potential therapy for antiestrogen resistant breast cancer and proteasome inhibitors in combination with AKT/MAPK blockers might be superior to the single agent treatment in breast cancer.
Anthetic Inner Critic Work as a Method for Relapse Prevention

Abstract Relapse prevention is a primary concern in the alcohol and drug treatment fields, and a variety of relapse prevention approaches are currently in use. Cognitive-behavioral and lifestyle change approaches are among the most commonly used, offering strategies the recovering individual may employ. This paper presents Anthetic Inner Critic work, a new approach to relapse prevention that has been shown to be clinically effective because it teaches skills that the recovering individual can use the rest of his or her life.
The effect of structural modifications of the isoproterenol molecule on the stimulation of deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis in mouse salivary glands.

A single injection of dl -isoproterenol causes, after a lag period of 20 hr, a marked stimulation of DNA synthesis and cell division in the salivary glands of rodents. The ability to stimulate DNA synthesis can be altered by modifications in the isoproterenol molecule as follows. (a) Replacement of the isopropyl group at the end of the side chain by a—CH2CH3 group results in an almost inactive molecule. In contrast, bulkier groups, such as—C(CH3)3, do not greatly alter the capacity to stimulate DNA synthesis. (b) Substituents on the α- and β-carbon atoms of the side chain have little or no effect on the ability of the parent molecule to stimulate DNA synthesis. (c) At least one of the two —OH groups on the phenyl ring is necessary for full activity. When both —OH groups are absent, the compound is totally inactive in stimulating DNA synthesis. (d) The d - and l -isomers are equally active in stimulating DNA synthesis. The ability to stimulate DNA synthesis in the salivary gland is usually correlated with the capacity to stimulate α-amylase secretion in the same organ and to cause glycogenolysis in the liver. However, there are a number of exceptions: for instance, (a) when both —OH groups of the phenyl rings are absent, the compound is still capable of eliciting salivary gland secretion; (b) d -isoproterenol, although quite effective in stimulating DNA synthesis, does not produce glycogenolysis in the liver.
Table Settings: The Material Culture and Social Context of Dining, AD 1700–1900: Edited by James Symonds

(2013). Table Settings: The Material Culture and Social Context of Dining, AD 1700–1900: Edited by James Symonds. Food, Culture & Society: Vol. 16, No. 3, pp. 513-516.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type II: Implications in Pregnancy and Cesarean Delivery

Childbearing Poster Presentation Background We examined the care provided and the complications addressed for an expectant mother with spinal muscular atrophy type II (SMA II). We will discuss the preoperative testing and education provided, inpatient plan of care, and postoperative outcomes. We will focus on the woman's SMA II with chronic pain and neuromusculoskeletal complications and how it affected the pregnancy and outcome. Case A 29-year-old G3P1111woman presented for a repeat cesarean. Her case was significant for a history of SMA II that resulted in bilateral lower extremity contractures, surgical rods in spine, severe scoliosis, and chronic pain. The woman had no use of her lower extremities and was confined to a wheelchair. A multidisciplinary team consisting of members from anesthesia, maternal–fetal medicine, and neonatology, identified evidence-based interventions based on the patient's extensive medical history, prenatal records, and phone interview. Conclusion The woman had a cesarean and gave birth to a newborn who weighed 4 lbs 6 ounces and had an Apgar scores were 1/1/3 at 1, 5 and 10 minutes. The pediatric team was in attendance at birth and provided bedside resuscitation and intubation. The newborn was transferred to the neonatal intensive care unit for admission. The woman recovered in the perioperative area with an increased need of pain medicines but recovered appropriately and was transferred to the postpartum unit for the remainder of her hospital admission.
Conformer-specific photoconversion of 25-hydroxytachysterol to 25-hydroxyprevitamin D3: role in the production of vitamin Ds.

The photochemical goal in the production of vitamin Ds (Vit Ds) is to maximize the conversion of the provitamins (Pros) to the previtamins (Pres) while minimizing stoichiometric losses to undesirable over-irradiation products. The last step in the syntheses, the [1,7]-sigmatropic rearrangement of the Pres to the Vits, is thermally induced. The competition between cis−trans photoisomerization and photocyclization of the Pres is known to be highly excitation-wavelength specific. It inspired Havinga's nonequilibration of excited rotamers (NEER) principle and more recent alternative explanations. In contrast, the photochemistry of tachysterol has been reported to be relatively unexceptional with Tachy → Pre quantum yields in the 0.10−0.13 range, independent of λexc. Examination of the spectrum of the 25-hydroxy derivative of tachysterol (HOTachy) reveals vibronic structure between 295 and 260 nm and a broad structureless shoulder between 330 and 295 nm. These features are consistent with absorption by at leas...
Millstone Hill measurements on 26 February 1979 during the solar eclipse and formation of a midday F-region trough☆

On 26 February 1979, the Millstone Hill incoherent scatter radar was operated to observe the F-region over Canada along the path of the total eclipse of the sun. A continuous scanning mode was used with the radar elevation fixed at 4° and the azimuth swept continuously from 350° to 298°. Each scan required 20 min to complete and useful results were obtained at ranges up to 2992 km. The path of totality crossed the center of the region swept by the radar beam. The F-region electron density, ion temperature, electron temperature and ion line-of-sight drift were measured. Electric field components have been extracted from the radar line-of-sight component of the ion drift by assuming that the electric field may be represented by a quasi-static two-dimensional potential with the potential assumed constant along geomagnetic field lines. Electron density decreases were observed in association with the eclipse. At 300 km an ∼50% decrease occurred near the region of totality, but the variations were small above 450 km. However, apparently unrelated to the eclipse, very large electric fields developed in the region under view. Somewhat later a well defined trough formed north of Λ = 70°, whose equatorward edge is extremely sharp and appears to be approaching the radar with time. Large values of the electron and ion temperatures were observed in the trough and the trough formed where the drift was westwards and exceeded 1000 m s−1. It is suggested that the observed through may be due to an increase in the rate of the charge transfer reaction O+ + N2 → NO+ + N in the presence of a very large electric field impressed from the magnetosphere in association with a large magnetic disturbance.
Recent reimbursement changes and their effect on hospital and private office use of myocardial perfusion imaging.

Purpose The aims of this study were to examine recent trends in the utilization of radionuclide myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) and to reflect on their causes and their implications for radiologists. Methods Nationwide Medicare Part B databases for 2000 through 2010 were used. Codes for primary MPI studies (including PET) were selected. Medicare specialty codes were used to identify MPI examinations done by radiologists, cardiologists, and other physicians. Place-of-service codes were used to identify examinations performed in offices versus hospital settings. Utilization rates per 1,000 fee-for-service beneficiaries were calculated. Trends were assessed by place of service and specialty. Results The overall MPI utilization rate rose from 2000 through 2004, followed by a period of stabilization from 2005 to 2008. A peak of 88.0 per 1,000 was reached in 2006. In 2009 and 2010, a decline occurred, with the rate dropping by 13% to 76.9. In private offices, cardiologists' utilization grew rapidly from 2000 through 2006, but growth stopped thereafter. Their rate peaked in 2008 at 50.6 but dropped to 44.4 by 2010 (−12%). Radiologists' role in office MPI was minimal. In hospital settings, radiologists predominated in 2000. Their rate remained stable through 2004 but thereafter began to decline steadily, dropping by 35% by 2010. Cardiologists' hospital-based utilization rate rose gradually, then flattened, but began to rise in 2009 and 2010. By 2010, cardiologists performed more hospital MPI examinations than radiologists. Conclusions Radiologists' initially predominant role in hospital-based MPI has eroded recently, while that of cardiologists has strengthened. This seems related to a shift among cardiologists away from office practice and into hospital affiliations.
Microemulsion Characterization by the Use of a Noninvasive Backscatter Fiber Optic Probe

This paper demonstrates the utility of a noninvasive backscatter fiber optic probe for dynamic light-scattering characterization of a microemulsion comprising sodium dodecyl sulfate/1-butanol/ brine/heptane. The fiber probe, comprising two optical fibers precisely positioned in a stainless steel body, is a miniaturized and efficient self-beating dynamic light-scattering system. Accuracy of particle size estimation is better than ±2%.
Provocative MRI catheterization

Background Invasive right heart catheterization plays a central role in the investigation of patients with cardiac and pulmonary vascular disease. Physiological provocations during invasive heart catheterization augment the diagnostic yield and can provide useful prognostic information. MRI catheterization combines invasive hemodynamic measurements with MRI structural and functional evaluations thus providing superior diagnostic information than either test alone. An additional benefit to both patient and operator is no ionizing radiation, which is of particular value in pediatric patients.
Global gene expression profiling in Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer: a comparative analysis using cDNA microarrays

In order to identify and contrast global gene expression profiles defining the premalignant syndrome, Barrett's esophagus, as well as frank esophageal cancer, we utilized cDNA microarray technology in conjunction with bioinformatics tools. We hybridized microarrays, each containing 8000 cDNA clones, to RNAs extracted from 13 esophageal surgical or endoscopic biopsy specimens (seven Barrett's metaplasias and six esophageal carcinomas). Hierarchical cluster analysis was performed on these results and displayed using a color-coded graphic representation (Treeview). The esophageal samples clustered naturally into two principal groups, each possessing unique global gene expression profiles. After retrieving histologic reports for these tissues, we found that one main cluster contained all seven Barrett's samples, while the remaining principal cluster comprised the six esophageal cancers. The cancers also clustered according to histopathological subtype. Thus, squamous cell carcinomas (SCCAs) constituted one group, adenocarcinomas (ADCAs) clustered separately, and one signet-ring carcinoma was in its own cluster, distinct from the ADCA cluster. We conclude that cDNA microarrays and bioinformatics show promise in the classification of esophageal malignant and premalignant diseases, and that these methods can be applied to small biopsy samples.
Genetics of obsessive-compulsive disorders: new findings and challenges

A review of the current state of research in the genetics of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is presented. OCD is a neuropsychiatric condition that affects 1-2% of the population and often has an early age at onset of symptoms. OCD has been shown to be familial, and a major gene effect has been reported. However, phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity of OCD poses multiple challenges for locating susceptibility genes. Strategies such as the use of phenotypic subtyping (using tic disorders or other anxiety disorders) and endophenotyping based on brain mechanisms underlying OCD (functional brain imaging and neuropsychological measures) may open ways to understand the genetic components of OCD. Using child probands and extended families for linkage an association studies is another venue to obtain greater informative families for genetic studies. A better understanding of environmental triggers, OCD subtypes and OCD pathophysiology will lead to locating genes that confer risk to OCD.
The monotectic reaction in Cu-Nb alloys

The solidification of Cu-Nb alloys has been studied by a chill casting technique. Formation of small spherical particles, termed spheroids, was observed at compositions of 15 and 20 wt % Nb, and comparison to similar particles found in chill cast Cu-Pb alloys presents evidence that the spheroids are produced by a monotectic reaction. It is shown that the spheroids are induced by oxygen impurities in the alloys and that their formation is also promoted by high solidification rates. A mechanism for spheroid formation is postulated.
Mesothelin Virus-Like Particle Immunization Controls Pancreatic Cancer Growth through CD8+ T Cell Induction and Reduction in the Frequency of CD4+foxp3+ICOS− Regulatory T Cells

Our previous study has shown that mesothelin (MSLN) is a potential immunotherapeutic target for pancreatic cancer. Here, we further studied the immunogenicity of chimeric murine MSLN-virus-like particles (mMSLN-VLPs), their ability to break tolerance to mMSLN, a self-antigen, and deciphered the mechanism of immune responses elicited by mMSLN-VLP immunization using a pancreatic cancer (PC) mouse model. In addition to what we have found with xenogeneic human MSLN-VLP (hMSLN-VLP), mMSLN-VLP immunization was able to break the tolerance to intrinsic MSLN and mount mMSLN-specific, cytotoxic CD8+ T cells which led to a significant reduction in tumor volume and prolonged survival in an orthotopic PC mouse model. Furthermore, CD4+foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) were progressively decreased in both spleen and tumor tissues following mMSLN-VLP immunization and this was at least partly due to elevated levels of IL-6 production from activated plasmocytoid dendritic cell (pDC)-like cells following mMSLN-VLP immunization. Moreover, mMSLN-VLP treatment mainly reduced the frequency of the CD4+foxp3+ICOS− Treg subset. However, mMSLN-VLP induced IL-6 production also increased ICOSL expression on pDC-like cells which supported the proliferation of immunosuppressive CD4+foxp3+ICOS+ Treg cells. This study reveals that mMSLN-VLP immunization is capable of controlling PC progression by effectively mounting an immune response against mMSLN, a tumor self-antigen, and altering the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment via activation of pDCs-like cells and reduction in the frequency of CD4+foxp3+ICOS− Treg cells. However, combination therapies will likely need to be used in order to target residual CD4+foxp3+ICOS+ Treg cells.
Concepts in next generation photovoltaic devices - materials engineering perspective

Summary form only given. Over the next quarter century photovoltaic (PV) electricity generation is projected to grow at a double digit rate. Advancements in PV device architecture, improvements in processing technologies, manufacturing scale-up, and a broader adoption of grid-interconnection standards are expected to enhance this growth further. In this presentation current state of the art in PV device fabrication techniques will be reviewed as well as concepts for developing photovoltaic devices that are nano-architectured to achieve higher device efficiency and for lowering the manufacturing costs by the use of traditional processing techniques will be discussed.
Comparison of Epidermal Growth Factor Binding and Receptor Distribution in Normal Human Epidermis and Epidermal Appendages

To localize epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptors in normal human epidermis and other skin structures, two different light microscopic methods were used, EGF binding ([ 125 I]EGF/R) to the extracellular portion of the EGF receptor was studied by incubating intact skin samples with [ 125 I]EGF, sectioning the tissues, and performing autoradiography. Immunoreactive EGF receptor molecules (IR-EGF/R) were localized with a monospecific anti-EGF receptor antibody using a 2-step indirect immunocytoehemical method (horseradish peroxidase) and detergent permeabilized tissues. This latter method measured the total pool of EGF receptors: occupied and/or internalized forms, precursor forms, and partially degraded forms of the EGF receptor that retain immunoreactivity. Both the [ 125 I]EGF/R and IR-EGF/R localization studies indicated that EGF receptors were present in basal epidermal keratinocytes, sebocytes, outer root sheath cells in hair follicles, smooth muscle cells of arrector pili muscles, and dermal arteries. The highest levels of [ 125 I]EGF/R and IR-EGF/R were found in the dermal ducts of eccrine sweat glands. The distribution of both [ 125 I]EGF/R and IR-EGF/R was not consistent with the concept that EGF exclusively is involved in cellular division and proliferation in normal human epidermis and its appendages, i.e., EGF receptors were also found in tissues that do not undergo rapid proliferation. The present study indicates that EGF may have a more complex regulatory role in the skin than was previously thought.
Tuberculosis and periodontal disease, with special reference to the collagen fibers.

A NUMBER of chronic debilitating diseases, including tuberculosis, have t been considered predisposing or contributing factors in the development of periodontal disease.2 6,10, 31 Some authors28' 23, 3 have even claimed that the periodontal lesions associated with these systemic diseases are characteristic enough to be helpful in arriving at a diagnosis of the systemic disease. A mild, painless, specific type of gingivitis associated with pulmonary tuberculosis was described by Cahn," who also reported "roentgenographic evidence of enlarged, swollen intertrabecular spaces between and around the teeth." Cipes9 examined more than one thousand tuberculous patients and found a high incidence of characteristic gingivitis which varied in severity and extent proportionately to the pulmonary involvement. A definite association between pulmonary tuberculosis and periodontal lesions was also reported by Kramer21 and Brody.' They also reported periodontal bone changes, and were later supported by Goadby,14 who attributed these bone changes in the jaw to a loss of lime salts and a subsequent formation of granulation tissue. A general withdrawal of calcium salts from the bony system associated with pulmonary tuberculosis might, according to Miller,24 cause a horizontal wasting of the alveolar process. This theory of demineralization of bone in cases of pulmonary tuberculosis seems to be unfounded.36 A second group of investigators have found, in tuberculous patients, an increased occurrence and extent of the commonly recognized types of periodontal diseases.'13 32 These reports include a large number of clinical cases and a significant relationship is claimed between pulmonary tuberculosis and periodontal disease, utilizing healthy individuals as controls. In several textbooks of oral pathology" 7, 20 general statements are made about pulmonary tuberculosis causing lowered systemic and local resistance to irritation and infection, and thereby predisposing to periodontal disease. The third group of reports is headed by Tanchester and Sorrin's thorough investigation of 1,500 tuberculous patients plus a large number of healthy controls. They did not find any pathognomonic dental or periodontal signs of tuberculosis, nor did they observe more dental or periodontal disease in tuberculous than in healthy individuals. Roentgenographic examination of the teeth and their supporting structures did not reveal any changes which could be attributed to tuberculosis. Similar-statements have been made by Brodsky,4 Ordene,2' and Gruber'8 after examination of a large number of tuberculous patients.
Does the nitrate fraction account for differences between Dumas-N and Kjeldahl-N values in vegetable leaves?

Abstract With recent advances in nitrogen (N) analyzers, the Dumas method may replace the traditional Kjeldahl method for the routine diagnosis of N in plants. Because of its nature, the Dumas method truly determines total N. The Kjeldahl method only converts protein N and some nitrate (NO3‐N) into ammonium. Therefore, the N‐NO3 ‐ fraction may explain the difference observed between Kjeldahl‐N (Kn) and Dumas‐N (Dn) values. This study was conducted to (1) determine the Kn:Dn ratio for vegetable crops and (2) evaluate the effect of the size of the nitrate fraction on the Kn:Dn ratio. Over the 0.9–7.0% N range, Dn was a good predictor of Kn in vegetable samples. The Kn may be estimated from Dn as Kn=0.68 Dn (n=134 obs., R2=0.71, p<0.01). For all vegetable crops combined, the mean Kn:Dn ratio was 0.75. This ratio suggests that approximately 25% of N in the samples was recovered by the Dumas method but not by Kjeldahl digestion. This percentage is much higher than the actual N‐NO3 foliar content. These results...
Cardiovascular reactivity and left ventricular mass: an integrative review.

Left ventricular hypertrophy has been shown to be an independent predictor of risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Behavioral scientists have focused on how hemodynamic factors influenced by psychosocial stress may be associated with left ventricular mass (LVM). We reviewed existing studies examining stress-related cardiovascular reactivity (CVR) and LVM, with a goal of examining the moderating role of population (age and hypertensive status) and methodological factors (task type, sample size, and study design) explaining the observed results. Twenty-one studies met the criteria for this review. Results showed only a modestly consistent relationship between CVR and LVM. Forty-three percent of the studies reported 1 or more significant results linking systolic blood pressure reactivity with LVM, and 14% of the studies showed that diastolic blood pressure reactivity was significantly related to LVM. Hypertensive status, task type, and sample size did not play a major role in moderating the relationship between LVM and CVR. A somewhat larger percentage of positive results was shown in prospective and adult studies. The association between CVR and LVM may be real, although the effect size is modest, and we discuss methodological strategies for enhancing statistical power in future investigations. Additional sampling factors (e.g., race, gender) may also impact this relationship. Finally, greater attention is warranted to the role of the psychosocial environment, as this may interact with reactivity to influence LVM.
Ion Chromatographic Determination of Phosphorus in Eight U.S.G.S. Standard Rocks

Abstract A method is described for the analysis of phosphorus in geological samples involving the decomposition of the sample with hydrofluoric acid in a quartz tube and the measurement of phosphate ion concentration using an ion chromatograph (Dionex 10) with an anion separator column (Wescan anion 269-001). The detection limit is between 0.05-0.5% P2O5 in the original sample. Multiple analyses of eight U.S.G.S. standard rocks yielded a relative standard deviation range between 2.37-16.67%. In excess of 15 samples can be analyzed in an 8 hour day.