cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nanofluidics with phase separated block-copolymers: Glassy dynamics during capillary flow

A recently developed experimental platform in polymer nanofluidics [, ] is used to investigate the glassy dynamics of phase-separated block-copolymers during capillary flow into cylindrical nanopores. The flow process is monitored by means of broadband dielectric spectroscopy. Due to the break in the symmetry induced by the geometrical confinement, a structural transition in the polymer morphology is observed, no shifts in the position of the dynamic glass transition are detected.
Growth and properties of triglycine sulfate (TGS) crystals: Review

Abstract The present status of data on growth and properties of pure and doped single crystals of triglycine sulfate (TGS) is reviewed. The results of growth and characteristics of TGS crystals grown in the low-gravity environment of the space shuttle for infrared detector applications are presented. Applications of crystals in various devices are also described.
Colonization of mutans streptococci in 8- to 15-month-old children.

Objective The age at which a child becomes colonized with mutans streptococci (MS) is important for understanding early childhood caries. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship of age with MS colonization in infants. Methods Inner-city children (n = 149) between the ages of 8 months and 15 months, inclusive, who reportedly were still using a baby bottle, were sampled for MS. Results Evidence of MS colonization was seen as early at 10 months of age. For children 12 months old or younger (n = 80), 25 percent had detectable levels of MS; in the 15-month age group, 60 percent were colonized. Conclusion This study suggests that prevention of MS colonization in some populations may need to be initiated prior to the child's first birthday.
Comparison of Drug Dosing Recommendations Based on Measured GFR and Kidney Function Estimating Equations

Background Kidney disease alters the pharmacokinetic disposition of many medications, requiring dosage adjustment to maintain therapeutic serum concentrations. The Cockcroft-Gault (CG) equation is used for pharmacokinetic studies and drug dosage adjustments, but the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study equation is more accurate and more often reported by clinical laboratories than the CG equation. Study Design Diagnostic test study. Settings & Participants Pooled data set for 5,504 participants from 6 research studies and 4 clinical populations with measured glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Index Test Estimated kidney function using the MDRD Study and CG equations incorporating actual (CG) or ideal body weight (CG IBW ) and standardized serum creatinine concentrations. Reference Test Measured GFR assessed by using iodine-125–iothalamate urinary clearance. Outcome Concordance of assigned kidney function categories designated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Guidance for Industry for pharmacokinetic studies and recommended dosages of 15 medications cleared by the kidneys. Results Concordance of kidney function estimates with measured GFR for FDA-assigned kidney function categories was 78% for the MDRD Study equation compared with 73% for the CG equation ( P IBW equation ( P IBW equations was 78% and 75%, respectively ( P P IBW equation ( P IBW equations and MDRD Study equation were 89% and 88%, respectively ( P Limitations Results based on simulation rather than pharmacokinetic studies. Outcome was drug dosage recommendations, rather than observed drug efficacy and safety. Conclusions The MDRD Study equation can also be used for pharmacokinetic studies and drug dosage adjustments. As more accurate GFR-estimating equations are developed, they should be used for these purposes.
Analysis of Energy and Momentum Transport for Fluid Flow Through a Porous Bed

This paper presents an analysis for the forced convective flow of a gas through a packed bed of spherical solid particles, and the associated heat transport processes. Ergun's correlation was used as the vapor phase momentum equation in order to account for the inertia effects as well as the viscous effects. No local thermal equilibrium was assumed between the solid and the vapor phases. A thorough discussion of the thermal interactions between the solid and vapor phases and their effect on the fluid flow as well as the pressure and density fields is presented. The analysis shows that the local thermal equilibrium condition was very sensitive to the particle Reynolds number (Re{sub p}) and the Darcy number (Da) while thermophysical properties did not have a very significant effect on this condition. On the other hand, two-dimensional behavior of certain variables was found to be very sensitive to thermophysical parameters but insensitive to Re{sub p} and Da.
Piezoresistive Strain Gages and Transducer Elements

The piezoresistive effect, the change in resistivity caused by mechanical stress, is large enough in semiconductors for use in strain gages and other transducer elements. This paper reviews the piezoresistive effect in semiconductors having diamond or zincblende crystal structures and discusses applications. Definitions and typical values are given for the important material properties such as stress sensitivity, strain sensitivity, temperature dependence of sensitivity, and effect of crystal orientation. In addition, new information is given on piezoresistive properties of diffused layers on semiconductors, and diffused sensing elements of several types are analyzed. The advantages of increased design flexibility and improved sensitivity over uniformly doped gages are shown.
Development and validation of an LC/MS/MS procedure for the quantification of endogenous myo-inositol concentrations in rat brain tissue homogenates.

myo-Inositol is being investigated as a biomarker to monitor disease states involving the central nervous system. We have developed and validated a quantitative method to study endogenous myo-inositol metabolism in rat brain tissue. Tissue samples were homogenized, and their myo-inositol content was determined using spiked calibration curves and mass spectrometry. The assay was validated on an LC/MS/MS platform, and specificity was evaluated using accurate mass measurements. A novel chiral LC/MS/MS method was also developed to resolve myo-inositol from other endogenous inositol epimers and confirm the selectivity of the quantitative procedure. The validated method is selective, convenient, precise (<15% RSD), accurate (<15% RE), and sensitive over a linear range of 0.100−100 μg/mL. This method could potentially be used as an instrument for monitoring pathological conditions related to psychotherapeutics, as well as a tool for screening curative pharmaceuticals for efficacy.
Optical rotatory dispersion studies of poly‐O‐acetyl‐γ‐hydroxy‐L‐proline forms I and II

Poly-O-acetyl-hydroxy-L-proline, forms I and II have been studied by optical rotatory dispersion (ORD) and ultraviolet spectrophotometry in solution and in the solid state. Cotton effects of opposite sign, but not mirror images, were observed in the 250 mμ region for the two forms (Form I, peak 278 mμ; crossover, 254 mμ; trough, 244 mμ: Form II, trough 270 mμ; crossover, 248 mμ; peak, 238 mμ). Thus, the Cotton effects for a right-handed and left-handed helix have been shown to be opposite for the proline type helices I and II. The ORD of films of form I was found to have a positive Cotton effect further into the ultraviolet region with peak at 218 mμ. Absorption spectra showed a shift of 8 mμ in the absorption peak in the 200 mμ region for the two forms (form. I, 211 mμ; form II, 203 mμ). A shoulder was demonstrated in the film absorption spectra in the 250 mμ region where the Cotton effects are found. The mixing of the n, π* and π, π* states of the amide chromophore and n, π* state of the ester chromophore was suggested as being responsible for the Cotton effects in the 250 mμ region.
Long-term patterns of microhabitat use by fish in a southern Appalachian stream from 1983 to 1992: effects of hydrologic period, season and fish length

We quantified microhabitat use by members of a southern Appalachian stream fish assemblage over a ten-year period that included both floods and droughts. Our study site (37 m in length) encompassed riffle, run and pool habitats. Previous research indicated that species be- longed to either benthic or water-column microhabitat guilds. Most spe- cies exhibited non-random microhabitat use in all seasons, and benthic and water column species generally were over-represented in the deeper portions of the site. In addition, water column species generally were over- represented in microhabitats with lower average velocities. The majority of seasonal shifts in microhabitat use were passive (i.e. correlated with changes in microhabitat availability), whereas, most shifts associated with hydrological periods appeared to be active responses to changing en- vironmental conditions. Most species exhibited length-related shifts in microhabitat use, which were strongly affected by hydrologic period for four of ten species. Microhabitat use patterns of assemblage members appeared to be a consequence of species-speci fic responses to changing environmental conditions. The highly flexible patterns of microhabitat use exhibited by these species necessitate that decisions regarding their manage- ment be based on data covering a range of environmental conditions.
Increased Food Insecurity Among Mothers of 2 Year Olds with Special Health Care Needs

The objective of this study is to explore the association between having a child with special health care needs (CSHCN) and food insecurity when the child is 2 years old. We studied women who had a live birth in 2004-2005 and responded to Oregon's Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) survey 3 months postpartum (Time 1) and the follow-up survey (PRAMS-2), when the child was 2 years old (Time 2). Women answering affirmatively to the PRAMS-2 question, "In the last 12 months, did you ever eat less than you felt you should because there was not enough money for food?" were considered food insecure. CSHCN status was identified by affirmative responses to questions about needs for ongoing services (Time 2). PRAMS and PRAMS-2 responses were weighted for study design and non-response. Results report weighted analyses, unless noted. Among 1812 mothers completing PRAMS-2, 13.6 % (unweighted) had a 2-year-old CSHCN and 11.9 % (unweighted) were food insecure at Time 2. The estimated prevalence of food insecurity at 2-year follow-up was 20.7 % among families of CSHCN and 9.7 % for others. After adjustment for Time 2 marital status, education, lifetime U.S. residence, income and health conditions, multivariable logistic regression revealed that odds of food insecurity were more than two times as great for CSHCN mothers 2 years post-partum compared to non-CSHCN mothers (adjusted odds ratio 2.6, 95 % confidence interval 1.3, 4.6). Families of CSHCN face increased risk for food insecurity. Improved understanding of causal determinants of food insecurity among households of CSHCN is needed.
Preparation of iron amido complexes via putative Fe(IV) imido intermediates.

The isolation and characterization of monomeric Fe(III) amido complexes with hybrid ureate/amidate ligands is described. An aryl azide serves as the source of the amido ligand in preparing the complexes from trigonal monopyramidal Fe(II) precursors. Aryl azides more commonly react with transition metal complexes by a two-electron oxidation process to yield imido complexes, suggesting that the Fe(III) amido complexes may be formed from high valent species by hydrogen atom abstraction from an external species. The mechanistic basis for formation of the amido complexes is investigated using substrates that readily donate hydrogen atoms. Results from these experiments suggest that the Fe(III) amido complexes are generated from Fe(IV) imido intermediates that can facilitate homolytic X−H bond cleavage. The Fe(III) amido complexes are high spin (S = 5/2) with a strong absorbance band at λmax ≈ 600 nm and extinction coefficients between 2000 and 3000 M-1 cm-1. These complexes are hygroscopic, reacting with 1 equ...
Facilitation of transposition and reversal learning in children by prior perceptual training.

Abstract First-grade children who received either perceptual pretraining or the identical perceptual experience plus verbal labeling training were significantly and equally facilitated in performance on a discrimination reversal and a transposition test as compared to nonpretrained children. These results are discussed in terms of their implications for perceptual, attentional and verbal mediation theories of learning.
What to consider when conducting a cost-effectiveness analysis in a clinical setting

More data are needed providing strong evidence that nutrition services are cost-effective. Economic evaluations, such as cost-effectiveness analyses, are excellent practice-based research projects. We conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis in a clinical setting to compare the cost-effectiveness of lipid-lowering medications plus diet therapy (medication + diet) with diet therapy alone (diet alone) for treating patients with hypercholesterolemia. Twenty-five adults with hypercholesterolemia (13 receiving medication + diet, 12 receiving diet alone) either participated in an 8-week, home-based, step 1 intervention or were counseled about diet and lifestyle by their care provider. Diet, cost, and laboratory data were collected at baseline, at 9 months, and at 19 months after participation in the intervention (follow-up). Cost per unit change in outcome was evaluated for each group. The diet-alone group made only small changes in dietary intake, changes that were smaller in magnitude than those made by the medication + diet group. Nevertheless, at 9 months, costs per unit change in total serum cholesterol level and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level were approximately $24 and $83 less, respectively, for the diet-alone group. At follow-up, however, the cost per unit change in LDL-C level was approximately $17 less for the medication + diet group, which can be explained by the medication + diet group's greater decrease in LDL-C level. The following elements should be considered when conducting a cost-effectiveness analysis of medical nutrition therapy: effectiveness of the nutrition intervention, adequate sample size, confounding variables, compliance with diet and drug therapy, direct and indirect costs of care, and follow-up evaluation.
Minimizing attrition in longitudinal studies of special populations: An integrated management approach

Abstract Whilst statistical techniques are available to estimate effects for missing subjects in longitudinal designs, minimizing subject attrition is a major goal in longitudinal research. This may be particularly difficult when attempting to follow individuals who have special characteristics or disabilities. The Colorado Treatment Outcome Study, a longitudinal study of individuals with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI), developed an integrated management approach that resulted in average re-contact rates of 95% in each follow-up year. This integrated management approach emphasized the partnership of all key parties to the research, including the community, the respondents, the field interviewers, and management. Guided by a set of values that emphasized respect for the respondent, confidentiality and community relationships, procedures were developed that included an information system, office protocols, staff selection, supervision, staff training, and subject location and engagement techniques. While each element is explicated with attention to special populations, it is their coordination and integration that is critical for success.
Examining CDOM fluorescence variability using principal component analysis: seasonal and regional modeling of three-dimensional fluorescence in the Gulf of Mexico

Alterations in colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM) characteristics were examined for an extensive fluorescence data set generated by excitation emission matrix spectroscopy (EEMS). Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to assess changes in fluorescence bandwidth and wavelength shifts of entire peak regions, enhancing previous CDOM characterization that was based on changes observed at a few excitation and emission wavelength pairs. Variability within the data set is expressed as a series of linear terms, which can be used to quantitatively evaluate changes in CDOM fluorescence within the perspective of a single cruise or a large geographic region. In this paper we will present PCA results from a comprehensive fluorescence data set examining seasonal and regional CDOM variability within the Gulf of Mexico.
Physician supply policies and health reform.

A LOOK BACKWARD IN A PERIOD like the present when the debate over health care reform becomes ever more insistent, recourse to history may provide some perspective, not so much to chart the way to the future but rather to deter the nation from advancing down unproductive paths. In the decade and a half following World War II there was mounting pressure from the public and the medical education establishment for congressional appropriations to expand the output of physicians on grounds that the existing medical school capacity was insufficient to meet the needs of a rapidly expanding population for access to health care services. By the early 1960s, key policy analysts of the American Medical Association (AMA) recognized that the Association's unremitting opposition to direct federal support for either the enhancement or the expansion of medical education could no longer be sustained. Its public relations efforts were now shifted to
On the recording of sample times and parameter estimation from repeated measures pharmacokinetic data.

A pharmacokinetic screen has been advocated for the characterization of the population pharmacokinetics of drugs during Phase 3 clinical trials. A common perception encountered in the collection of such data is that the accuracy of sampling times relative to dose is inadequate. A prospective simulation study was carried out to evaluate the effect of error in the recording of sampling times on the accuracy and precision of population parameter estimates from repeated measures pharmacokinetic data. A two-compartment model with intravenous bolus input(s) (single and multiple doses) was assumed. Random and systematic error in sampling times ranging from 5–50% using profile (block) randomized design were introduced. Sampling times were simulated in EXCEL while concentration data simulation and analysis were done in NONMEM. The effect of error in sampling times was studied at levels of variability ranging from 15–45% for a drug assumed to be dosed at its elimination half-life. One hundred replicate data sets of 100 subjects each were simulated for each case. although estimates of clearance (CitCL) and variability in clearance were robust for most of the sampling time errors, there was an increase in bias and imprecision in overall parameter estimation as intersubject variability was increased. If there is interest in parameters other thanCL, then the design of prospective population studies should include procedures for minimizing the error in the recording of sample times relative to dosing history.
Right Ventricular Sarcoidosis: Is It Time for Updated Diagnostic Criteria?

A 55-year-old woman with a history of complete heart block, atrial flutter, and progressive right ventricular failure was referred to our tertiary care center to be evaluated for cardiac transplantation. The patient's clinical course included worsening right ventricular dysfunction for 3 years before the current evaluation. Our clinical findings raised concerns about arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. Noninvasive imaging, including a positron emission tomographic scan, did not reveal obvious myocardial pathologic conditions. Given the end-stage nature of the patient's right ventricular failure and her dependence on inotropic agents, she underwent urgent listing and subsequent heart transplantation. Pathologic examination of the explanted heart revealed isolated right ventricular sarcoidosis with replacement fibrosis. Biopsy samples of the cardiac allograft 6 months after transplantation showed no recurrence of sarcoidosis. This atypical presentation of isolated cardiac sarcoidosis posed a considerable diagnostic challenge. In addition to discussing the patient's case, we review the relevant medical literature and discuss the need for updated differential diagnostic criteria for end-stage right ventricular failure that mimics arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy.
Percutaneous Cystolithotomy in the Pediatric Augmented Bladder

ABSTRACTPurpose: Bladder stones are a common problem following augmentation cystoplasty. With the addition of Mitrofanoff channels for intermittent catheterization and more aggressive bladder neck tightening procedures, the incidence of stones has increased and endoscopic access to the bladder has become more complicated. We present our results of percutaneous endoscopic cystolithotomy in children with bladder augmentation.Materials and Methods: We performed percutaneous extraction of bladder calculi in 13 children with bladder augmentation. All patients performed catheterization either via a Mitrofanoff channel, artificial urinary sphincter or plicated ileal limb of an ileocecal reservoir. The prior suprapubic tube site was dilated with an Amplatz set for access, and stones were removed intact or fragmented by laser or electrohydraulic lithotripsy.Results: Percutaneous extraction was successful in 12 of the 13 patients (92%). The remaining patient had a small posterior bladder perforation and open cystol...
Synthesis and assessment of date palm genetic diversity studies

A thorough assessment of genetic diversity and population differentiation of Phoenix dactylifera are critical for its dynamic conservation and sustainable utilization of its genetic diversity. Estimates of genetic diversity based on phenotypic, biochemical and molecular markers; and fruit quality traits were utilized in assessing the population differentiation of date palm populations throughout its center of diversity. Some phenotypic traits may not exhibit variation in response to environmental or management factors and can be used as stable descriptors of date palm cultivars and for cultivar identification. The majority of analyzed studies based on isozyme and microsatellite markers, reported larger within-population than among-population genetic diversity levels. Most variation estimated for fruit quality traits was found among populations; however, substantial differences in genetic diversity components were found among and within populations. The overall partitioning of genetic diversity, based on phenotypic, biochemical, molecular, and fruit quality traits suggested that date palm cultivars represent a complex gene pool within which historical movement of germplasm, recent introductions and human selection are shaping their genetic structure. The empirical evidence derived from this assessment suggested that the genetic structure of date palm populations is controlled by the environment, isolation by distance, and the biological characteristics of the tree.
A strongly graded ring that is

We construct a ring that is strongly graded by the integers such that it is not graded equivalent to a skew group ring. This is in contrast to the finite case and the results of Cohen and Montgomery, in which every strongly graded ring is graded equivalent to a skew group ring 2
THE TEMPOROPARIETAL FASCIAL FLAP IN HEAD AND NECK RECONSTRUCTION: THE WORKHORSE FROM ABOVE

Just as the pectoralic myocutaneous flap has become the flap of choice for a variety of head and neck defects within its range, the temporoparietal fascial flap (TPF flap) is remarkably dexterous to many types of tissue at distinct ear, nose, throat, and facial positions. Whether it is a soft-tissue, bony, cartilage, or combination reconstructive deficit, the TPF flap is adaptable. Furthermore, it supplies blood flow in poor healing situations such as in irradiated or infected fields—even for maxillary or mandible bony tissue.
An environmental investigation of the mineralogical, geotechnical, hydrogeologic and botanical properties of subsurface flow constructed wetlands in Akumal Mexico

Akumal is one of the few locations where subsurface flow constructed wetland systems can be compared directly without major differences in environmental setting. These systems in Akumal have highly variable geotechnical properties and performance and most systems are not well functioning. A basic water quality survey indicates SFCW effluent in no case meets UNEP or USEPA guidelines for ammonia or phosphate for sensitive waters. Systems are undersized and many are planted with less than optimal vegetation. Aggregate is generally too coarse and pores are commonly occluded with organic matter. The mineralogy of the locally sourced aggregate used in the systems is dominated by calcite, aragonite, quartz, boehmite and chlorite and is generally beneficial for improving the water quality of the systems; however, dissolution is observed and is of some concern. Major systematic retrofit efforts to improve these systems are warranted and should focus on better vegetation choices, use of locally sourced smaller and less soluble aggregate, exclusive use of the local limestone source containing boehmite, more frequent exchange of the aggregate, and an increase of overall cell size. The systems in Akumal are a classic example of a technological solution to an environmental problem caused by human development that has outpaced the designed capacity for wastewater treatment. This investigation serves as a baseline for numerous future interdisciplinary investigations and outlines challenges facing coastal communities attempting to use subsurface flow constructed wetlands.
Wireless power technology for application-specific scenarios of high-altitude airships

A new power concept has been contemplated for High Altitude Airship (HAA) under the consideration of direct energy conversion cycles, such as photovoltaic (PV) cells and advanced thermoelectric (ATE) generator. The HAA has various potential applications and mission scenarios that require onboard energy harvesting and power distribution systems. Both PV cells and an ATE system were briefly compared to identify the advantages of ATE for HAA applications in this study. Utilizing the estimated high efficiency of a threestaged ATE in a tandem mode, the ATE generates a higher quantity of harvested energy than PV cells for mission scenarios. The ATE's performance figure of merit of 5 was considered to estimate the cascaded efficiency of a three-staged ATE system. The estimated efficiency of a tandem system appears to be greater than 60%. Based on this estimated efficiency, the configuration of a HAA and the power utility modules are defined. Conventional photovoltaic cells have been used for NASA's long duration airplanes, the solar-powered Pathfinder, and remotely piloted aircraft [1]. However, the cost and weight of high efficiency photovoltaic cells pose a shortcoming for wide and unlimited applications. Among others is the fuel cell, but it is a fuel-carrying power generation system. A conceptual study for the HAA power budget plan has been done at NASA Langley Research Center by utilizing new nanomaterials for solar power harvesting.
A Framework Using Two-Factor Price Lattices for Generation Asset Valuation

In this paper, we use a real-options framework to value a power plant. The real option to commit or decommit a generating unit may be exercised on an hourly basis to maximize expected profit while subject to intertemporal operational constraints. The option-exercising process is modeled as a multistage stochastic problem. We develop a framework for generating discrete-time price lattices for two correlated Ito processes for electricity and fuel prices. We show that the proposed framework exceeds existing approaches in both lattice feasibility and computational efficiency. We prove that this framework guarantees existence of branching probabilities at all nodes and all stages of the lattice if the correlation between the two Ito processes is no greater than 4/√35 ≈ 0.676. With price evolution represented by a lattice, the valuation problem is solved using stochastic dynamic programming. We show how the obtained power plant value converges to the true expected value by refining the price lattice. Sensitivity analysis for the power plant value to changes of price parameters is also presented.
Is there a role for routine screening MRI in women with LCIS

Women with lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) have an elevated breast cancer risk, yet the benefit of MRI screening is unclear. We examined cancer detection rates with mammography alone versus mammography plus MRI in this high-risk population. From a prospectively maintained, single-institution database, we identified 776 patients diagnosed with LCIS after the adoption of screening MRI in April 1999. In addition to annual mammography and breast exam, MRI was used at the discretion of the physician and patient. Kaplan–Meier methods and landmark analyses at 1, 2, and 3 years following LCIS diagnosis were performed to compare rates of cancer detection with or without MRI. MRI screening was performed in 455 (59 %) patients (median, 3/patient). Median time from LCIS diagnosis to first MRI was 9 months (range 0.3–137 months). Patients undergoing MRI were younger (p < 0.0001), premenopausal (p < 0.0001), and more likely to have ≥1 first-degree relative with breast cancer (p = 0.009). At a median follow-up of 58 months, 98/776 (13 %) patients developed cancer. The crude cancer detection rate in both screening groups was 13 %. MRI was not associated with earlier stage, smaller size, or node negativity. Landmark analyses at 1, 2, and 3 years after LCIS diagnosis failed to demonstrate increased cancer detection rates among women having MRI (p = 0.23, 0.26, and 0.13, respectively). Although a diagnosis of LCIS remains a significant risk factor for breast cancer, the routine use of MRI does not result in increased cancer detection rates (short-term), nor does it result in earlier stage at diagnosis, illustrating the importance of defining optimal screening strategies for high-risk patients based on tumor biology rather than numerical risk.
Maintenance of the Classroom Health Education Curricula: Results from the Catch-on Study

Maintenance of the interactive Child and Adolescent Trial for Cardiovascular Health (CATCH) third- to fifth-grade curricula was studied in the 56 original intervention schools and 20 of the original control schools 5 years postintervention in four regions of the United States. Target grade teachers completed a self-administered survey that included questions regarding use of the CATCH materials, training in CATCH or other health education, barriers and perceived support for health education, and amount of health education currently taught. Percentage of teachers who continued to teach CATCH in the classroom was low; however, percentages were significantly higher in former intervention compared with control schools, even though control schools received training and materials following the main field trial. The results of this study can provide useful information for future development of classroom health promotion materials with a higher level of sustainability.
Evolutionary genetics: CCR5 mutation and plague protection.

A recent and prevalent mutation in the chemokine receptor CCR5 in humans of northern European ancestry has been proposed to provide protection against bubonic plague1,2. Here we infect both normal and CCR5-deficient mice with the bacterium Yersinia pestis, the cause of the plague epidemics that wiped out one-third of Europeans in the Middle Ages3, and find no difference in either bacterial growth or survival time between the two groups. Unless the pathogenesis of Yersinia infection differs markedly between mice and humans, our results indicate that CCR5 deficiency in people is unlikely to protect against plague.
Evaluating quality of primary care using the electronic medical record.

: Healthcare organizations are under increasing pressure to evaluate and report the level of quality in their health services. The electronic medical record (EMR) has been used in acute care settings to provide clinical data for quality evaluations. The implementation of the EMR in primary care settings is a more recent development, and as a result, the EMR has not been widely used to evaluate quality in primary care. Little research exists that uses the primary care medical record as a source of data. What remains to be seen is the extent to which EMRs contain the variables needed to address quality of primary care. This article describes a study that investigated the viability of the EMR as a database for evaluating quality in a women's primary health clinic.
Relationship of Sialyl-Lewisx/a Underexpression and E-Cadherin Overexpression in the Lymphovascular Embolus of Inflammatory Breast Carcinoma

Inflammatory breast carcinoma (IBC) is characterized by florid tumor emboli within lymphovascular spaces called lymphovascular invasion. These emboli have a unique microscopic appearance of compact clumps of tumor cells retracted away from the surrounding endothelial cell layer. Using a human SCID model of IBC (MARY-X), we, in previous studies, demonstrated that the tumor cell embolus (IBC spheroid) forms on the basis of an intact and overexpressed E-cadherin/α,β-catenin axis that mediates tumor cell-tumor cell adhesion. In the present study we examine the mechanism behind the apparent lack of binding of the tumor embolus to the surrounding endothelium. We find that this lack of tumor cell binding is because of markedly decreased sialyl-Lewisx/a (sLex/a) carbohydrate ligand-binding epitopes on its overexpressed MUC1 and other surface molecules that bind endothelial E-selectin. Decreased sLex/a is because of decreased α3/4-fucosyltransferase activity in MARY-X. The decreased sLex/a fail to confer electrostatic repulsions between tumor cells, which further contributes to the compactness of the MARY-X spheroid by allowing the E-cadherin homodimeric interactions to go unopposed. MARY-X spheroids were retrovirally transfected with FucT-III cDNA, significantly raising their levels of fucosyltransferase activity and surface sLex/a. In parallel experiments, enzymatic transfers with a milk α1,3-fucosyltransferase and an α2,3-sialyltransferase (ST3GalIV) were performed on the MARY-X spheroids and increased surface sLex/a. The addition of sLex/a by either manipulation caused disadherence of the MARY-X spheroids and the disruption of the E-cadherin homodimers mediating cell adhesion. Our findings support the cooperative relationship of sLex/a underexpression and E-cadherin overexpression in the genesis of the lymphovascular embolus of IBC.
An Extraction Replica Method for the Study of Surface Films

An extraction replica method is described by means of which thin solid film on worn surfaces may be removed from selected areas for examination in the transmission electron microscope. A scratch or several scratches are made on the worn surface with a pointed stylus. Displaced or loosened fragments of material are removed by means of a plastic extraction replica. After subsequent processing of the replica, sufficiently thin fragments can then be examined by transmission electron microscopy, electron diffraction, and the allied methods of x-ray energy dispersive analysis and electron energy loss spectroscopy. The latter two methods permit the determination of chemical composition which can then be correlated with crystallographic and microstructural observations. Application of the scratch extraction replica method is illustrated with examples of films removed from worn 52100 steel surfaces. Presented at the 39th Annual Meeting in Chicago, Illinois, May 7–10, 1984
Cervical vessel injury after blunt trauma

Abstract Blunt trauma accounts for 3% to 10% of cervical vessel injuries. Death and severe neurologic impairment have been reported in more than 80% of blunt carotid injuries. In our recent experience, 10 patients sustained 18 blunt cervical arterial injuries: two internal carotid artery (ICA) dissections, three ICA transections with pseudoaneurysm, five ICA thromboses, two vertebral artery dissections, one vertebral artery transection with pseudoaneurysm, one vertebral artery thrombosis, one minimal vertebral artery injury, and three caroticocavernous fistulas. A delay of more than 12 hours in making the diagnosis occurred in seven of the 10 patients. The mental status was initially normal in seven patients. The subsequent development of focal neurologic findings incongruent with CT scanning of the head prompted four-vessel angiography. Treatment was individualized and included supportive management, intravenous heparin, ligation, extracranial-intracranial bypass, and radiologic embolization. We have developed an angiographic classification that may aid management. Early angiography in patients with neurologic findings incongruent with head CT scan or in whom a normal sensorium and hemiparesis are present may permit improved outcomes. We advocate direct operative repair for accessible lesions of recent onset. For surgically inaccessible lesions, those with delayed presentation or in some cases with a fixed neurologic deficit, intravenous heparin can be started and follow-up angiography, head CT scanning, and the patient's clinical status determine further therapy. (J VASC SURG 1988;8:501-8.)
Patient selection in non-small cell lung cancer: Histologic versus molecular subtypes?

Until recently, the selection of systemic therapy has not varied according to histologic subtypes of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and is largely empirical. Thus, the diagnosis of “non-smallcell lung cancer not otherwise specified” (NSCLC-NOS) has been a frequently-used, acceptable term for clinical decision-making, despite the fact that it is not recognized by the World Health Organization Classification of Lung Tumors (1). This paradigm has been challenged by new generation of rational cancer therapeutics. The first emphasis on histology in treatment decision in NSCLC came from safety concerns about the first-in-class angiogenesis inhibitor bevacizumab. A randomized Phase II trial of carboplatin and paclitaxel alone or with lowor high-dose bevacizumab revealed a severe (and even fatal) occurrence of pulmonary hemorrhage in NSCLC patients with squamous histology receiving bevacizumab (2). Thus, patients with squamous histology were subsequently excluded from Phase III trials of bevacizumab and most of anti-angiogenesis inhibitors in advanced NSCLC (3-6). The identification of molecularly-defined cohorts of NSCLC patients who demonstrate dramatic clinical response to targeted agents has changed the landscape of lung cancer therapy. An epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR TKI), gefinitb or gefitinib, was the first targeted therapy used for the treatment of NSCLC patients (7,8). Initial clinical experiences suggested that high tumor responses were observed among patients with adenocarcinoma and a light or never smoking history (9-11). These clinical observations led to the development of a Phase III trial of gefinitb compared with first-line chemotherapy doublets in this clinically selected patient population (12). Surprisingly, correlative molecular analyses in this Phase III study reveals that the key driver of response to EGFR TKIs is the presence of TK-activating EGFR mutations rather than histology, Asian ethnicity or clinical characteristics (13). The higher clinical responses observed in never or light smokers and NSCLC patients with adenocarcinoma rather than squamous histology are due to the higher prevalence of TK-activating EGFR mutations present in these patients. These results led to world-wide clinical testing for EGFR mutations for selecting those NSCLC patients for first-line therapy of an EGFR TKI in 2009 (14). Of note, papillary and micropapillary adenocarcinoma subtypes have been correlated with lung adenocarcinomas with EGFR mutations (15). However, the clinical value of subtyping histologic-genetic correlations in NSCLC remains to be determined as the genetic features for the majority of NSCLC have yet to be characterized and the histologic diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma or squamous carcinoma could vary significantly between pathologists. Nevertheless, the cancer armentarium that might be selected by molecular biomarker status is quickly increasing. The echinoderm microtubule-
Development assistance for neglected tropical diseases: progress since 2009

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) is an umbrella term for a diverse group of debilitating infections that represent the most common afflictions for 2.7 billion people living on less than US$2 per day. Major efforts have recently re-focused attention on NTDs, including structured advocacy by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, technical and political support by WHO and large-scale drug donation programs by pharmaceutical companies. An analysis of the Official Development Assistance (ODA) for NTDs in 2009 showed that Development Assistance Committee members and multilateral donors had largely ignored funding NTD control projects. This study reviews the changes since 2009 and finds an increased engagement by pharmaceutical manufacturers through drug donation programs substantially increased by the 'London Declaration' in 2012, a focused effort of 77 public and private partners on control or elimination of the 10 most common NTDs, but no increase in ODA for NTDs between 2008 and 2012. The allocation of ODA still does not reflect the respective importance of these diseases.
Histone demethylase JMJD5 is essential for embryonic development.

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Histone demethylase JMJD5 is essential for embryogenesis. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Transcription of tumor suppressor p53 is upregulated in JMJD5 knockout embryos. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer JMJD5 may antagonize p53-dependent growth inhibition and apoptosis. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer JMJD5 is overexpressed in leukemias and breast cancer. -- Abstract: Histone lysine methylation is pivotal in regulating chromatin structure and thus profoundly affects the transcriptome. JMJD5 (jumonji C domain-containing 5) is a histone demethylase that specifically removes methyl moieties from dimethylated lysine 36 on histone H3 and exerts a pro-proliferative effect on breast cancer cells. Here, we generated JMJD5 knockout mice in order to study the physiological significance of this enzyme. Whereas heterozygous knockout mice displayed no overt phenotype, homozygous JMJD5 knockouts died around day 10 of embryonal development. JMJD5{sup -/-} embryos showed delayed development already at E8.5 and were actively resorbed at E10.5. While strong JMJD5 expression was observed only in the yolk sac at E8.5, JMJD5 was robustly expressed in E10.5 embryos at several sites, including the heart and eye. Lack of JMJD5 resulted in transcriptional upregulation of the tumor suppressor p53. Concurrently, the cell cycle inhibitor p21 and the pro-apoptotic molecule Noxa, both of which are prominent p53 target genes, became strongly upregulated in JMJD5{sup -/-}more » embryos. Collectively, our data indicate that JMJD5 is essential during embryonal development and a repressor of p53 expression. The latter suggests that JMJD5 has oncogenic activity and accordingly JMJD5 is upregulated in leukemias and breast cancer.« less
The coat protein leads the way: an update on basic and applied studies with the Brome mosaic virus coat protein

The Brome mosaic virus (BMV) coat protein (CP) accompanies the three BMV genomic RNAs and the subgenomic RNA into and out of cells in an infection cycle. In addition to serving as a protective shell for all of the BMV RNAs, CP plays regulatory roles during the infection process that are mediated through specific binding of RNA elements in the BMV genome. One regulatory RNA element is the B box present in the 5' untranslated region (UTR) of BMV RNA1 and RNA2 that play important roles in the formation of the BMV replication factory, as well as the regulation of translation. A second element is within the tRNA-like 3' UTR of all BMV RNAs that is required for efficient RNA replication. The BMV CP can also encapsidate ligand-coated metal nanoparticles to form virus-like particles (VLPs). This update summarizes the interaction between the BMV CP and RNAs that can regulate RNA synthesis, translation and RNA encapsidation, as well as the formation of VLPs.
Implementing a Real-Time Hough Transform on a Mobile Robot

Robotic vision is a challenging problem due both to the uncertain nature of real-world environments and the computational constraints of mobile platforms. Many standard computer vision algorithms have high computational requirements and are often seen as unsuitable for use in an embedded system such as the Aldebaran Nao. Many current approaches use fragile algorithms and reduced resolutions to achieve a low processing latency. We implement the Hough Transform, a standard line detection algorithm, for real-time use in the RoboCup Standard Platform League. Using assembly language instructions to expose the processor’s full potential, this project implements a real-time Hough transform for line detection on 320x240 pixel images.
How Do American Students Measure Up? Making Sense of International Comparisons.

In response to frequent news media reports about how poorly American students fare compared with their peers abroad, Daniel Koretz takes a close look at what these comparisons say, and do not say, about the achievement of U.S. high school students. He stresses that the comparisons do not provide what many observers of education would like: unambiguous information about the effectiveness of American high schools compared with those in other nations. Koretz begins by describing the. two principal international student comparisons-the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). Both assessments, he stresses, reflect the performance of students several years before they complete high school. PISA, which targets fifteen-year-old students, measures students' abilities to apply what they have learned in school to real-world problems. By contrast, TIMSS tests fourth and eighth graders. Unlike PISA, TIMSS follows the school curriculum closely. Because the findings of the two tests are sometimes inconsistent, Koretz stresses the importance of considering data from both sources. He cautions against comparing U.S. students with an "international average," which varies widely from survey to survey depending on which countries participate, and recommends instead comparing them with students in other nations that are similar to the United States or that are particularly high-achieving. Many observers, says Koretz, speculate that the lackluster average performance of American students in international comparisons arises because many, especially minority and low-income U.S. students, attend low-performing schools. But both TIMSS and PISA, he says, show that the performance of American students on the exams is not much more variable than that of students in countries that are socially more homogeneous or that have more equitable educational systems. Koretz emphasizes that the international comparisons provide valuable information and are a useful source of hypotheses about American secondary schooling to be tested by researchers. Studies designed to explain differences between U.S. students and those in very similar countries, he says, might provide especially useful suggestions for changes in policy and practice.