cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
O-025 The WEB aneurysm embolization device: design, evolution and CFD evaluation

Experience with a variety of intra-luminal “flow diverters” has demonstrated the ability of these high-density, metallic mesh devices to disrupt flow into intracranial aneurysms to a degree where thrombosis will occur. Thus far, limitations in their use includes the inability to treat aneurysms of some geometries, for example, bifurcation, as well as the need for the use of dual antiplatelet therapy during, immediately after and for some months following treatment. Over the last 3 years Sequent Medical has designed and developed a novel intra-saccular flow diverter aimed at expanding the utility and ease of use of these devices in aneurysm treatment. In this presentation I will illustrate some of the steps in the development, testing and evolution of the WEB as well as describe and illustrate a computational comparison of the flow diversion achieved by use of a Sequent WEB device or a generic intra-luminal flow diverter in two human aneurysms. Since 2007 we have evaluated a variety of WEB designs using the canine bifurcation aneurysm model. Our aim in these studies was to identify a design which allowed: (1) controlled and reproducible device delivery, retrieval and detachment; (2) aneurysm isolation from the circulation within minutes of deployment; (3) stable aneurysm occlusion at follow-up. A final device design consisting of a high density, two-layer nitinol mesh with variable porosity was selected for clinical use. Using examples from our canine studies, I will discuss and illustrate how changes in pore distribution (density), pore size and the addition of an internal compartment impacted the WEBs performance. To assess the differences between the extent of flow diversion achieved by the WEB as compared to a generic intra-luminal flow diverter, we performed computational studies comparing the two devices imbedded in two human aneurysms from our in-house data base (one a ICA sidewall aneurysm and the other a basilar apex aneurysm). To reduce computational requirements a porous media approach was used for these simulations. In these two aneurysms a comparison of the TA-WSS, flow entering the aneurysms and, changes in a surrogate of kinetic energy before and after virtual “treatment” all indicated potential advantages of the WEB over the generic intra-luminal device. Over the course of our studies, the Sequent WEB evolved into a device that was effective in the treatment of the canine bifurcation aneurysm. Computational studies in two human aneuyrms illustrate the potential advantages of this intra-saccular flow diverter over a generic intra-luminal flow diverter.
Ray Wu's Golden Rules: how he achieved greatness in work, and in life.

When Ray Wu passed away on February 10, 2008, he was 79, working full-time in his lab at Cornell University, and was at or near the top of his long and noteworthy career. He had developed the first method for DNA sequencing and pioneered recombinant DNA technology. He had identified key genes related to stress tolerance in plants and was poised to apply these to boost crop yields of rice and other foods. All the while, he was helping colleagues in the life sciences and the field itself. He helped found scientific institutes in several countries. He initiated a large-scale exchange program in biology that enabled hundreds of students from China to obtain Ph.D. degrees in the United States. By any measure, his work was remarkable, his impact huge. What is less well-known is that at the same time he was building his career, he was also working, just as deliberately, at shaping a full and happy personal life. In the end, he achieved something few people attain: success in both the personal and the professional, and an enviable balance that seemed to power his whole life. Many may wonder how he did it, or ascribe it to the magic of his genes. But Ray Wu’s life reveals another story. He believed that if you worked at something, you could do it, whether it was something tangible, like science, or something intangible, like happiness. He took generic concepts that everyone admires, like discipline and optimism, and turned them into specific actions to be practiced every day. He never gave up, he never stopped making friends, and he always believed in his ability to change things for the better. In his notebooks and his everyday life, he left a blueprint for scientists and others who would aspire to similar success.
Role of information technology in reducing health care costs

The introduction of modern information technology into the US health care system has tremendous potential to reduce health care costs. The DOE National Laboratories and the DoD contractor base have substantial technology that may be useful in realizing cost reduction. This paper gives examples of some of the information technology that is available, show potential applications to the medical community and describes mechanisms for working with the National Labs.
REV1 and DNA polymerase zeta in DNA interstrand crosslink repair

DNA interstrand crosslinks (ICLs) are covalent linkages between two strands of DNA, and their presence interferes with essential metabolic processes such as transcription and replication. These lesions are extremely toxic, and their repair is essential for genome stability and cell survival. In this review, we will discuss how the removal of ICLs requires interplay between multiple genome maintenance pathways and can occur in the absence of replication (replication-independent ICL repair) or during S phase (replication-coupled ICL repair), the latter being the predominant pathway used in mammalian cells. It is now well recognized that translesion DNA synthesis (TLS), especially through the activities of REV1 and DNA polymerase zeta (Polf), is necessary for both ICL repair pathways operating throughout the cell cycle. Recent studies suggest that the convergence of two replication forks upon an ICL initiates a cascade of events including unhooking of the lesion through the actions of structure-specific endonucleases, thereby creating a DNA double-stranded break (DSB). TLS across the unhooked lesion is necessary for restoring the sister chromatid before homologous recombination repair. Biochemical and genetic studies implicate REV1 and Polf as being essential for performing lesion bypass across the unhooked crosslink, and this step appears to be important for subsequent events to repair the intermediate DSB. The potential role of Fanconi anemia pathway in the regulation of REV1 and Polf-dependent TLS and the involvement of additional polymerases, including DNA polymerases kappa, nu, and theta, in the repair of ICLs is also discussed in this
Stability measure for negative-resistance amplifiers

A measure of the stability of reflection-type negative-resistance amplifiers is defined as the distance between the actual driving-point immittance of the active one-port and its value that would cause instability. The measure has a simple physical interpretation and demonstrates the gain-stability trade-off.
A new computational search technique for AI based on the Cantor set

Abstract This paper discusses the development of a new search algorithm for artificial intelligence systems. The search technique is based on the mathematical theory of the Cantor set. The search algorithm will be efficient for specialized search domains where the distribution of the data elements to be searched is approximately normal. The approach uses the iterative procedure of deleted middle thirds. This facilitates quick pruning of a search space. The new search technique has potential applications in computational systems with large input-output data handling. Extensive experiments comparing the Cantor set search (CSS) to binary search indicate that the new search technique holds good promise.
Nondestructive imaging of an ultracold lattice gas

We demonstrate the nondestructive imaging of a lattice gas of ultracold bosons. Atomic fluorescence is induced in the simultaneous presence of degenerate Raman sideband cooling. The combined influence of these processes controllably cycles an atom between a dark state and a fluorescing state while eliminating heating and loss. Through spatially resolved sideband spectroscopy following the imaging sequence, we demonstrate the efficacy of this imaging technique in various regimes of lattice depth and fluorescence acquisition rate. Our work provides an important extension of quantum gas imaging to the nondestructive detection, control and manipulation of atoms in optical lattices. In addition, our technique can also be extended to atomic species that are less amenable to molasses-based lattice imaging.
Interventional treatment of acute ischemic stroke: introduction.

The only treatment shown to improve outcome in acute ischemic stroke is tissue-type plasminogen activator administered within 3 hours (and perhaps longer) after stroke onset.1–3 Definitive data to support a role for acute endovascular stroke therapy, however, are lacking. Despite this lack of data, endovascular therapy is being used much more widely and has become the standard of care …
Rotating scans for systematic error removal

Optical triangulation laser scanners produce errors at surface discontinuities and sharp features. These systematic errors are anisotropic. We examine the causes of these errors theoretically, and we study the correlation of systematic error with edge size and orientation experimentally. We then present a novel processing method for removing systematic errors, by combining scans taken at several different orientations. We apply an anisotropic filter to the separate scans, and use it to weight the data in a final combination step. Unlike previous approaches, our method does not require access to the scanner's internal data or firmware. We demonstrate the technique on data from laser range scanners by two different manufacturers.
Who's in Charge Here? Structures for Collaborative Governance in Children's Mental Health

Communities increasingly use community coalitions to promote collaborative action and community-based problem solving. This article presents research findings on governance structures and interagency collaboration in children's mental health. Specific governance structures are discussed, as well as lessons in collaborative governance applicable to coalitions serving a variety of community needs.
Influence of the endocrine system on tryptic activity in female Aedes aegypti

Abstract In MNC-ablated or ovariectomized mosquitoes, blood-fed by enema, the tryptic activity of midgut homogenates was reduced by half. By sealing the anus after the blood meal, we showed that the reduction in enzyme activity was not due to premature or increased excretion of active enzyme in operated females. The enzyme activity was restored to the level of unoperated controls by either reimplantation of an ovary or injection of 20-hydroxy-ecdysone in a large, single dose shortly before the blood meal. The reduction in tryptic activity in MNC-ablated or ovariectomized females did not alter the rate of protein digestion as measured by the decrease of protein in midgut homogenates. We conclude that the neurosecretory system and the ovaries are required for maximal tryptic activity in normal females, and that the enzyme apparently is secreted in excess of that required for complete digestion of the blood meal.
Design for Online Learning Using a Learner's Perspective Approach: A Review of Roderick Sims' Design Alchemy

A variety of instructional design models provide pathways for developing courses using different philosophical approaches. However, many design models tend to focus more on the teaching than on the learning portion of the process. Roderick Sims, in his book "Design Alchemy: Transforming the Way We Think About Learning and Teaching," provides an innovative approach to design online instruction that focuses primarily on the learning rather than the teacher or content. He uses the term "design alchemy" to explain how a designer can think about learning and teaching as a practical and effective means to creative online environments that maximize the educational experience. This approach allows for a more flexible and sustainable environment focused on the learner's growth and development.
Colchicine inhibits GABAA receptors independently of microtubule depolymerization

Colchicine is a microtubule depolymerizing agent used extensively in the study of cytoskeleton-dependent cell functions. In studying the possible functional interaction between the GABA(A) receptor and the cytoskeleton, we found that colchicine inhibits GABA(A) receptor function by mechanisms independent of microtubule depolymerization. Human GABA(A) receptor alpha1beta2gamma2L subunits were co-expressed in Xenopus oocytes and the effects of colchicine on GABA(A) receptor function was assessed using the two-electrode voltage-clamp technique. Co-application of GABA (10 microM) with colchicine (100 microM) resulted in a 59.9% inhibition of GABA-gated chloride currents. This effect was instantaneous in onset with no pre-incubation required and reversed within seconds. Other depolymerizing agents, such as nocodazole (20 microM) and vinblastine (200 microM), did not affect GABA(A) receptor function using the same co-application protocol used with colchicine. The polymerizing agent taxol (10-50 microM) did not affect colchicine inhibition of the GABA responses and did not itself alter GABA-gated chloride currents. The inhibitory effect of colchicine was present under conditions in which the oocyte microtubules had been depolymerized by cold temperature. These results indicate that colchicine inhibits the GABA(A) receptor via mechanisms unrelated to microtubule depolymerization. To further examine the inhibitory effect of colchicine on the GABA response, GABA (10-3000 microM) concentration-response curves were performed in the absence or presence of various concentrations of colchicine (30-300 microM). In the presence of colchicine, the GABA concentration-response curve was shifted to the right in a parallel fashion. A Schild plot of this data yielded a linear slope indicating that colchicine acts as a competitive antagonist at the GABA binding site. We conclude that colchicine is a competitive antagonist at the GABA(A) receptor and that studies using colchicine to examine the functional interaction between GABA(A) receptors and microtubules should be interpreted with caution.
Uncoupling of obesity from insulin resistance through a targeted mutation in aP2, the adipocyte fatty acid binding protein.

Fatty acid binding proteins (FABPs) are small cytoplasmic proteins that are expressed in a highly tissue-specific manner and bind to fatty acids such as oleic and retinoic acid. Mice with a null mutation in aP2 , the gene encoding the adipocyte FABP, were developmentally and metabolically normal. The aP2 -deficient mice developed dietary obesity but, unlike control mice, they did not develop insulin resistance or diabetes. Also unlike their obese wild-type counterparts, obese aP2 −/− animals failed to express in adipose tissue tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), a molecule implicated in obesity-related insulin resistance. These results indicate that aP2 is central to the pathway that links obesity to insulin resistance, possibly by linking fatty acid metabolism to expression of TNF-α.
Optimization by marker removal for δf particle simulations

Abstract A marker removal optimization technique is developed for δ f particle simulations. The technique uses the linear eigenmode structure in the equilibrium constant-of-motion space to construct an importance function, then removes some markers based on the importance function and adjusts the weights of the leftover markers to optimize the marker distribution function, so as to save markers and computing time. The technique can be directly applied to single-mode linear simulations. For multi-mode or nonlinear simulations, the technique can still be directly applied if there is one most unstable mode that dominates the simulation and δ f does not change too much in the nonlinear stage, otherwise special care is needed, which is discussed in detail in this paper. The technique’s effectiveness, e.g., marker saving factor, depends on how localized δ f is. The technique can be used for a phase space of arbitrary dimension, as long as the constants of motion in equilibrium can be found. In this paper, the technique is tested in a 2D bump-on-tail simulation and a 5D gyrokinetic toroidal Alfven eigenmode (TAE) simulation and saves markers by factors of 4 and 19, respectively. The technique is not limited to particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations but could be applied to other approaches of marker particle simulations such as particle-in-wavelet (PIW) and grid-free treecode simulations.
A current approach to the psychodynamic psychotherapy of substance-dependent individuals.

New concepts in the utilization of psychodynamics—including a contemporary developmental view, the integration of twelve-step programs, and evolving countertransference—have contributed to a new phase-specific method of psychodynamic psychotherapy for addictive disorders.
Surface melting in the heteroepitaxial nucleation of diamond on Ni

Abstract Surface melting associated with the heteroepitaxial nucleation of diamond on Ni was investigated. Scanning electron microscopy of quenched samples revealed flow patterns and a recrystallized surface morphology. A combination of techniques including in situ optical monitoring, differential thermal analysis, Auger depth profile analysis, and cross-section transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis were performed to identify the nature of the molten layer. Data obtained from different experiments were in good mutual agreement. All experimental results strongly indicated that a molten Ni–C–H surface layer was involved in the nucleation process. The presence of both carbon and atomic hydrogen played an important role in the depression of the melting point which was measured to be >300°C less than the melting point of pure Ni.
Clinical and functional outcomes of laminoplasty and laminectomy.

Abstract Objective: Laminoplasty has become a common alternative to laminectomy for cervical spondylotic myelopathy or radiculopathy. The procedures have been compared before, but data on functional recovery are limited. We aim to compare the safety and short-term clinical and functional outcomes of cervical laminoplasty and cervical laminectomy. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of the outcome of 72 patients who had laminoplasty and 49 patients who had laminectomy at our hospital from 1999 to 2005. Patients had cervical spondylotic myelopathy or radiculopathy. All of the patients were similar in age and pre-operative functional status. All patients were assessed pre-operatively and 4 months post-operatively with the Rankin disability score, Glasgow outcome scale and Karnofsky and Nurick scales. Results: Laminoplasty resulted in greater improvement than laminectomy on the Rankin scale (p<0·0001, chi-square test), GOS (p<0·0027, chi-square test) and Karnofsky scores (p<0·01, Wilcoxon test). Nu...
Lattice dynamical theory of thermal expansion and mode Grüneisen parameters in cubic BP

Lattice dynamical theory of thermal expansion and mode Gr\"uneisen parameters in cubic boron monophosphide is reported in the quasiharmonic approximation within the framework of a second-neighbor rigid-ion model. In this scheme, we optimized the involved force constants by using nonlinear least-squares procedures with constrained parameters and weighting of the available data on critical-point phonons and elastic and lattice constants. Theoretical results of the phonon dispersion curves along high-symmetry directions (both at ambient and 89 kbar pressures), mode Gr\"uneisen parameters, and thermal expansion coefficient {\ensuremath{\alpha}(T)} are compared and discussed with the existing experimental and ab initio calculations. Consistent with x-ray data, our calcualtion for the variation of \ensuremath{\alpha}(T) with temperature in BP is found to be remarkably similar to that of \ensuremath{\mathrm{B}}-SiC, and unlike most other III-V-compounds, it does not attain negative values at lower temperatures.
Precision measurement of the orthopositronium decay rate using the vacuum technique

A focused beam of 700-eV positrons is used to form orthopositronium (o-Ps) in evacuated, MgO-lined cavities of different sizes. The o-Ps decay rate ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{\mathit{T}}$ is determined to be 7.0482\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.0016 \ensuremath{\mu}${\mathrm{s}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$ after extrapolation to infinite cavity size. This 230-ppm result is 4 times more accurate than previous measurements utilizing the vacuum technique. Subject to radically different systematic effects, it corroborates at the 6.2\ensuremath{\sigma} level the discrepancy between theory and a recent 200-ppm measurement of ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{\mathit{T}}$ in gases.
Narcissism and self-handicapping: Linking self-aggrandizement to behavior

Abstract Two experiments tested the hypothesis that narcissistic men as defined by the NPI (Narcissistic Personality Inventory; Raskin & Hall, 1979 ) would self-handicap more than low-NPI individuals because it makes it easy to claim potentially undeserved credit for success. In both experiments, high and low narcissistic men received either response contingent or noncontingent success feedback on a test of intelligence and then provided an opportunity to self-handicap prior to a second evaluation. In both studies, high-NPI men self-handicapped significantly more than low-NPI men regardless of the contingency of the performance feedback. Narcissistic self-handicapping appeared to be motivated by a self-aggrandizing attributional style rather than by self-presentational concerns or the desire to self-enhance. Findings are discussed with regard to the role of self-esteem instability and the motive to self-protect in both narcissism and self-handicapping.
Some extensions of the collective optical model for inelastic scattering

Abstract It is suggested that the concept of collective oscillations of the optical-model potential be extended to more general shape oscillations and to oscillations involving the spins and isospins of the target nucleons. Some simple examples are discussed. A very simple model suggests that a phenomenological interaction with the same surface-peaked radial shape as that presently used would be reasonable also for excitation of spin and isospin oscillations.
Analytical model for investigation of interior noise characteristics in aircraft with multiple propellers including synchrophasing

A simplified analytical model of transmission of noise into the interior of propeller-driven aircraft has been developed. The analysis includes directivity and relative phase effects of the propeller noise sources, and leads to a closed form solution for the coupled motion between the interior and exterior fields via the shell (fuselage) vibrational response. Various situations commonly encountered in considering sound transmission into aircraft fuselages are investigated analytically and the results obtained are compared to measurements in real aircraft. In general the model has proved successful in identifying basic mechanisms behind noise transmission phenomena.
Town Born: The Political Economy of New England from Its Founding to the Revolution

Barry Levy, Town Born: The Political Economy of New England from Its Founding to the Revolution (2009), 360 (University of Pennsylvania Press, Philadephia, $45.00). Town Born is an important book t...
Optics manufacturing: mechanics and materials issues

To understand and further develop techniques for the deterministic microgrinding of glass, issues in both the materials science and mechanics fields need to be addressed. As part of our efforts at the Center for Optics manufacturing we are working with researchers from the center, other universities, government, and industry in both areas and at the interface between them. In this report we wish to give an overview of some of the efforts we are involved in, including specific examples of the experiments and analyses being performed.
Glucose intolerance in the progeny of rats treated with single subdiabetogenic dose of alloxan.

Abstract A single subdiabetogenic dose of alloxan administered to the weanling rat induces a persistent state of carbohydrate intolerance (latent diabetes) which does not progress to frank diabetes mellitus in such animals with either aging or multiple pregnancies. Alloxan-induced latent diabetes, in the rat, is transmissable to offspring either through the male or female parent with increasing glucose intolerance through the generations so far studied. This persistence of glucose intolerance in successive generations cannot be explained fully as yet, but may be attributed to alloxan-induced genetic changes. These changes are postulated to be persistent suppressive modifications of the action of genes concerned with glucose utilization. A significant sex difference in glucose disappearance occurs in the rat, given alloxan or not. This sex difference persists throughout succeeding generations until the latent diabetes becomes severe. Pregnancy increases the rate of glucose disappearance in the rat. Latent diabetic females of parent and F1 generations show a greater degree of increase than control animals.
The conversion of Paul

This essay extrapolates from recent psychological data on the phenomena of guilt and splitting to possible implications for the understanding of the experience of the Apostle Paul.
Nuclear challenges and progress in designing stellarator fusion power plants

Abstract Over the past 5–6 decades, stellarator power plants have been studied in the US, Europe, and Japan as an alternate to the mainline magnetic fusion tokamaks, offering steady-state operation and eliminating the risk of plasma disruptions. The earlier 1980s studies suggested large-scale stellarator power plants with an average major radius exceeding 20 m. The most recent development of the compact stellarator concept delivered ARIES-CS – a compact stellarator with 7.75 m average major radius, approaching that of tokamaks. For stellarators, the most important engineering parameter that determines the machine size and cost is the minimum distance between the plasma boundary and mid-coil. Accommodating the breeding blanket and necessary shield within this distance to protect the ARIES-CS superconducting magnet represents a challenging task. Selecting the ARIES-CS nuclear and engineering parameters to produce an economic optimum, modeling the complex geometry for 3D nuclear analysis to confirm the key parameters, and minimizing the radwaste stream received considerable attention during the design process. These engineering design elements combined with advanced physics helped enable the compact stellarator to be a viable concept. This paper provides a brief historical overview of the progress in designing stellarator power plants and a perspective on the successful integration of the nuclear activity into the final ARIES-CS configuration.
Freedom and constraint: Generative expectations in the US stream restoration field

The modern holistic wave of stream restoration was born in the 1970s from the combined support of a strong grassroots movement and new federal environmental legislation, most notably the Clean Water Act. Before holistic stream restoration could properly start, however, it was stopped in its tracks by two big issues: were the far more intensive interventions necessary to holistic restoration actually doable; and was it possible to reconcile the ecological goals of setting streams and rivers free with the powerful economic demands to minimize impacts from flooding and erosion? Taken together, these two issue called the whole project of stream restoration into doubt. But then a consultant, Dave Rosgen, stepped up with a restoration approach that promised both freedom and constraint: picturesque rivers teaming with game fish in a channel that stayed where it was put. Drawing on the sociology of expectations literature within STS, I argue that it was the expectations raised by this apparent resolution of the contradiction at the heart of stream restoration that transformed both Rosgen and the restoration field from shaky prospects into contenders, setting the stage for the exponential growth of stream restoration, and Rosgen’s success within in it.
WITHDRAWN: Cognitive effects of androgen deprivation therapy in an older cohort of men with prostrate cancer

This article has been withdrawn from Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology. With the permission of the authors, it has been published in Volume1, issue 1 of the Journal of Geriatric Oncology (www.geriatriconcology.net). The full Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at http://www.elsevier.com/locate/withdrawalpolicy.
Making Music as Embodied Dialogue

This essay explores music’s value as a meaningful modality of self-expression that makes possible dialogic relationships with implications for the conduct of qualitative inquiry. To perform music’s dialogic contours, I draw from my experiences making music with members of a non-profit drop-in center for persons living with mental illness. Specifically, I share two vignettes that perform autoethnographically the musical relationship that unfolded between one member, Jordan, and myself. Through our act of making music together, we were able to dwell in the spirit of edifying individuation and edifying participation that created the possibility for the outward sharing of consequential life experiences. Finally, the implications of music’s capacity to voice embodied meanings for qualitative inquiry are discussed.
The politics of nuclear waste: An analysis of a public hearing on the proposed yucca mountain nuclear waste repository

A variety of literature exists on environmental impact statements (EIS) and their relative success or failure in providing the basis for fall and fair discussion of environmental issues. Existing studies have generally examined printed copies of either draft or completed EISs. This study examines a public hearing held prior to the printing of a first draft, proposed EIS to determine how government‐citizen interaction at an initial hearing might impact the proposed draft EIS. It analyzes the public scoping hearings held in Salt Lake City, Utah, to determine the potential environmental impact of the proposed national nuclear waste repository at Yucca Mountain, Nevada. It provides background on political action prior to the hearings, and focuses on governmental/political‐citizen interaction at the hearings to examine the practical implications of political involvement in the process.
Haematozoan parasites of mourning doves in Florida.

A total of 918 mourning doves (Zenaida macroura) collected from six localities in Florida over a three year period (1973-1976) was examined for haematozoan infections. Three species of haematozoans were encountered: Haemoproteus maccallumi (92% prevalence), H. sacharovi (3% prevalence), and Leucocytozoon marchouxi (0.1% prevalence). No trypanosome or Plasmodium infections were found. Adult doves did not show sexually or seasonally-related differences in infection intensity. Immature doves, however, had parasitemias which showed cyclic seasonal fluctuations, but since these decreased with age, this seasonal fluctuation was interpreted to be due to changes in age composition of the population and not season itself. Doves from northern Florida showed significantly lower parasitemias than doves from the southern part of the state.
Variables related to the selection of psychiatric residents. II. A replication study.

Abstract The primary purpose of this study was to attempt to replicate an earlier investigation concerned with the variables related to the selection of psychiatric residents. 1 For that study, a 32-item rating scale, the Resident Applicant Scale (RAS), was developed. The content of the items was based both on discussions with senior faculty members (psychiatrists and clinical psychologists) at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and a review of the literature. The reason for constructing the scale was to determine whether a brief, structured instrument was capable of discriminating between those applicants who were accepted and those who were rejected for residencies on the basis of global, clinical judgments made by psychiatrists using interviews, letters of reference, and past academic record. Fifteen of the 32 items were found to discriminate between the two groups. These items were concerned with such characteristics as creativity, curiosity, general range of knowledge, and intellectual grasp of psychiatry. In addition to their evaluation on the rating scale, the applicants' values and personality characteristics were studied. In order to determine whether the Resident Applicant Scale would continue to discriminate between those applicants who are accepted and those who are rejected and whether the same items would continue to have discriminating power, the present evaluation was undertaken with the following year's applicants for psychiatric residencies at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. A replication of the previous findings would increase the likelihood that there are stable criteria used by a variety of psychiatrists in evaluating applicants for residency training. Personality and value characteristics were again assessed using different measures.
Hypoxia Activates the K-Ras Proto-Oncogene to Stimulate Angiogenesis and Inhibit Apoptosis in Colon Cancer Cells

The KRAS proto-oncogene plays a key role in the development of many human tumors and is commonly activated by somatic mutation or signaling through specific growth factor receptors. However, the interaction between the micro-environment and K-ras activity has not been defined. Hypoxia invariably develops as tumors outgrow their supply of oxygen. A series of well-orchestrated cellular adaptations occur that stimulate angiogenesis and enhance survival of the tumor in hypoxic conditions. Our previous studies demonstrated that mutant KRAS alleles can interact with hypoxia to induce vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in colon cancer. We sought to determine whether similar hypoxic responses are also present in tumors without a KRAS mutation. Hypoxia consistently increased the levels of activated, GTP-bound K-ras in colon cancer cell lines with a wild-type KRAS gene, and this depended upon the activation of c-Src. Inhibition of c-Src by PP2 treatment or siRNA knockdown blocked the hypoxic activation of K-ras. This activation of K-ras did not depend upon EGFR and resulted in the phosphorylation of Akt and induction of VEGF expression. In addition, activation of K-ras significantly blocked apoptosis in hypoxic conditions. These studies reveal a unique adaptive mechanism in hypoxia that activates K-ras signaling in the absence of a mutant KRAS oncogene.
Identification of Incinerated Root Canal Filling Materials After Exposure to High Heat Incineration

With the increase in global terrorism there is a higher probability of having to identify victims of incineration events secondary to incendiary explosive devices. The victims of incineration events challenge forensic odontologists when coronal restorations are no longer present to compile postmortem data. With 40 million root canals being completed annually in the United States, a very large pool of antemortem data is available to the forensic odontologist to make positive identifications. When complete and thorough dental records exist, individuals that have undergone surgical and nonsurgical root canal therapy may have materials present in the canal that may aid in identification. This study provides elemental fingerprints of root canal obturation materials to be utilized as a forensic identification aid. This study used scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) to assess the elemental composition of materials before and after high temperature incineration. Sixteen endodontic materials were analyzed pre-incineration and placed in extracted teeth. The filled teeth were subjected to incineration at 900 degrees C for 30 min to simulate incineration events or cremation. Incinerated materials were radiographed and re-analyzed to determine if they retained their original elemental composition. Endodontic sealers, gutta percha, root-end filling materials, silver points, and separated files were distinguishable in the canal and traceable after incineration. The authors present a fingerprint of the endodontic obturation materials that are capable of withstanding high heat incineration to be used as an aid for postmortem identification. This work represents the initial stage of database generation for root canal filling materials for use as an aid in forensic identification.
An equilibrium-point model of electromyographic patterns during single-joint movements based on experimentally reconstructed control signals

The purpose of this work has been to develop a model of electromyographic (EMG) patterns during single-joint movements based on a version of the equilibrium-point hypothesis, a method for experimental reconstruction of the joint compliant characteristics, the dual-strategy hypothesis, and a kinematic model of movement trajectory. EMG patterns are considered emergent properties of hypothetical control patterns that are equally affected by the control signals and peripheral feedback reflecting actual movement trajectory. A computer model generated the EMG patterns based on simulated movement kinematics and hypothetical control signals derived from the reconstructed joint compliant characteristics. The model predictions have been compared to published recordings of movement kinematics and EMG patterns in a variety of movement conditions, including movements over different distances, at different speeds, against different-known inertial loads, and in conditions of possible unexpected decrease in the inertial load. Changes in task parameters within the model led to simulated EMG patterns qualitatively similar to the experimentally recorded EMG patterns. The model's predictive power compares it favourably to the existing models of the EMG patterns.
GRAMA: genetic mapping analysis of temperature gradient capillary electrophoresis data.

Temperature gradient capillary electropho- resis (TGCE) is a high-throughput method to detect segregating single nucleotide polymorphisms and InDel polymorphisms in genetic mapping populations. Exist- ing software that analyzes TGCE data was, however, designed for mutation analysis rather than genetic mapping. Genetic recombinant analysis and mapping assistant (GRAMA) is a new tool that automates TGCE data analysis for the purpose of genetic map- ping. Data from multiple TGCE runs are analyzed, integrated, and displayed in an intuitive visual format. GRAMA includes an algorithm to detect peaks in electropherograms and can automatically compare its peak calls with those produced by another software package. Consequently, GRAMA provides highly accurate results with a low false positive rate of 5.9% and an even lower false negative rate of 1.3%. Because of its accuracy and intuitive interface, GRAMA boosts user productivity more than twofold relative to previ- ous manual methods of scoring TGCE data. GRAMA is written in Java and is freely available at http:// www.complex.iastate.edu.
The Role of Human Cytochrome P450 Enzymes in the Formation of 2-Hydroxymetronidazole: CYP2A6 is the High Affinity (Low Km) Catalyst

Despite metronidazole's widespread clinical use since the 1960s, the specific enzymes involved in its biotransformation have not been previously identified. Hence, in vitro studies were conducted to identify and characterize the cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in the formation of the major metabolite, 2-hydroxymetronidazole. Formation of 2-hydroxymetronidazole in human liver microsomes was consistent with biphasic, Michaelis-Menten kinetics. Although several cDNA-expressed P450 enzymes catalyzed 2-hydroxymetronidazole formation at a supratherapeutic concentration of metronidazole (2000 μM), at a "therapeutic concentration" of 100 μM only CYPs 2A6, 3A4, 3A5, and 3A7 catalyzed metronidazole 2-hydroxylation at rates substantially greater than control vector, and CYP2A6 catalyzed 2-hydroxymetronidazole formation at rates 6-fold higher than the next most active enzyme. Kinetic studies with these recombinant enzymes revealed that CYP2A6 has a Km = 289 μM which is comparable to the Km for the high-affinity (low-Km) enzyme in human liver microsomes, whereas the Km values for the CYP3A enzymes corresponded with the low-affinity (high-Km) component. The sample-to-sample variation in 2-hydroxymetronidazole formation correlated significantly with CYP2A6 activity (r ≥ 0.970, P 99%). Chemical and antibody inhibitors of other P450 enzymes had little or no effect on metronidazole 2-hydroxylation. These results suggest that CYP2A6 is the primary catalyst responsible for the 2-hydroxylation of metronidazole, a reaction that may function as a marker of CYP2A6 activity both in vitro and in vivo.
Genetic and environmental effects on daily life stressors: more evidence for greater variation in later life.

People vary in the occurrence and perceived severity of stressors experienced in their daily lives. In the current study, the authors examined the extent to which individual differences in these relatively minor occurrences are determined by genetic endowment as well as environmental influences and how these effects vary by age. Identical (npairs 111) and fraternal (npairs 99) twin adults ranging from 25 to 73 years old reported the occurrence and severity of their daily stressors on 8 consecutive evenings. Both genetic and unique environmental effects accounted for the variance in stressor occurrence, whereas shared family and unique environmental effects accounted for the variance in the perceived severity of these stressors. In addition, the influence of unique environment on perceived stress exerted a stronger influence among the older adults than the younger adults.
Combined Effects of Behavioral Intervention and Tolterodine in Patients Dissatisfied With Overactive Bladder Medication

Purpose: We assessed the effect of tolterodine extended release plus behavioral intervention on treatment satisfaction and bladder diary variables in patients with overactive bladder who had been previously treated and were dissatisfied with tolterodine or other antimuscarinics.Materials and Methods: This 16-week, multicenter, open label study included eligible patients 18 years old or older who reported overactive bladder symptoms 3 months or greater in duration, 8 or greater micturitions and 2 or greater urgency related micturitions per 24 hours, and 1 or greater urgency urinary incontinence episodes in a 5-day bladder diary at baseline as well as dissatisfaction with prior antimuscarinic medication. Patients received tolterodine extended release plus self-administered behavioral intervention, consisting of an educational pamphlet with verbal reinforcement, for 8 weeks. Satisfied patients continued with this therapy and dissatisfied patients received tolterodine extended release plus individualized beha...
Note---Nested Decomposition of a Dynamic Energy Model

This paper reports computational experience in using a nested decomposition staircase algorithm to solve a version of Manne's linear programming model of U. S. energy options. Nested decomposition is found to be 28% to 52% faster than a direct simplex approach for our test problems. Effects of various computational strategies are also investigated. Our results indicate the applicability of nested decomposition to the important class of staircase linear programs arising from dynamic energy models.
Reduced order of electrochemical model for a pouch type high power Li-polymer battery

A two dimensional model for a single cell is developed by connecting one dimensional electrochemical micro cell models by current collectors. The model is capable of representing terminal behavior along with internal physical variables that include temperature, potentials and ion flows. However, the model is very computational intensive and needs to be reduced for implementation into real time applications. The order reductions are carried out applying polynomial and state space approach for estimation of concentrations in electrolyte and electrodes. The potentials in the components are solved by iterative method and combined with the reduced order to substantially reduce the computational time. The two models are compared with respect to static and dynamic behavior at terminal voltage at different current rates as a function of state-of-charge (SOC) as well as concentrations of ions in electrodes and electrolyte in the cell. In addition, voltage responses of step current at charging and discharging processes are also compared.
Comparison of Prescription and Medical Records in Reflecting Patient Antihypertensive Drug Therapy

OBJECTIVE:To determine the completeness of prescription records, and the extent to which they agreed with medical record drug entries for antihypertensive medications.SETTING:Three clinics affiliated with two staff model health maintenance organizations (HMOs).PARTICIPANTS:Randomly selected HMO enrollees (n=982) with diagnosed hypertension.METHODS:Computer-based prescription records for antihypertensive medications were reviewed at each location using an algorithm to convert the directions-for-use codes into an amount to be consumed per day (prescribed daily dosage). The medical record was analyzed similarly for the presence of drug notations and directions for use.RESULTS:There was a high level of agreement between the medical record and prescription file with respect to identifying the drug prescribed by drug name. Between 5 and 14 percent of medical record drug entries did not have corresponding prescription records, probably reflecting patient decisions not to have prescriptions filled at HMO-affiliat...
Issue Networks, Information, and Interest Group Alliances: The Case of Wisconsin Welfare Politics, 1993-99

Interest group scholars have long emphasized the importance of group alliances in the policymaking process. But little is known about how groups choose specific alliance partners; that is, who works with whom? Social embeddedness theory suggests that the social location of groups in issue networks affects the information available to them about potential partners and the desirability of particular alliances. To test this hypothesis, I use data from interviews with representatives of 57 interest groups and 46 other significant political actors involved in Wisconsin's 1993-99 welfare policy debate to model alliance formation with two-stage conditional maximum likelihood regression (2SCML). I find substantial support for my social embeddedness hypotheses that alliance formation is encouraged by previous network interaction, contact with mutual third parties, and having a central position in a network. In short, the placement of groups in networks serves to facilitate alliances among some pairs of groups and to cut off potential connections among others.
Rapid Diagnosis of Sepsis and Bacterial Meningitis in Children with Real-Time Fluorescent Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction Amplification in the Bacterial 16S rRNA Gene

A method for the detection of bacterial pathogens in sepsis and bacterial meningitis with 16S rRNA gene- based real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction (FQ-PCR) is developed. A total of 190 blood specimens and 5 cerebrospinal fluid specimens from neonates with suspected sepsis or bacterial meningitis were evaluated with 16S rRNA gene-based real-time FQ-PCR assay. The positive rate of the real-time FQ-PCR assay was significantly higher (25/195, 12.82%) than that of bacterial culture (15/195, 7.69%; P = .002). When bacterial culture was used as a control, the sensitivity of the real-time FQ-PCR was 100%, the specificity was 94.4%, and Youden's index was 0.944. This study suggests that 16S rRNA gene-based real-time FQ-PCR assay is an important and accurate method in the detection of bacterial pathogens of sepsis and bacterial meningitis and should have a promising usage in the diagnosis of sepsis and bacterial meningitis.