cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Heart Rate Turbulence in Patients with Systolic Heart Failure

Objective: To assess the heart rate turbulence (HRT) in patients with systolic dysfunction. Methods: From Shinken Database 2004-8 including all the new patients (n=11123), 68 patients (aged 58.9 years; 12 women) with low EF (EF 0% and TS<2.5 ms/RR) was found in 21% of low EF patients. During the follow-up period, ventricular tachycardia tended to occur frequently in these patients with abnormal HRT (38.7% vs. 52.5%). However, no significant differences were observed in the mortality and admission rate for heart failure in our particular small number of patients and during relatively short follow-up period. Conclusion: In low EF patients, TO was significantly higher and TS was significantly lower than in normal controls. However, in our study population, we could not observe any significant relations of these variables to cardiac mortality and morbidity. Future studies are needed to evaluate the validity and availability of HRT in clinical practice.
Differential acute phase immune responses by Angus and Romosinuano steers following an endotoxin challenge.

Our primary objective of this experiment was to evaluate potential genetic differences between two diverse Bos taurus breeds [Angus (AG) and Romosinuano (RO)] in response to an endotoxin challenge. Eighteen steers (n = 9 steers/breed; 299.4 ± 5.2 kg BW) were acclimated to environmentally controlled chambers maintained at thermoneutrality (19.7 °C) and then fitted with indwelling jugular catheters and rectal temperature (RT) recording devices 1 d before the endotoxin challenge. The next day, blood samples were collected at 30-min intervals from −2 to 8 h, and RT was measured continuously at 1-min intervals throughout the study. At time 0, all steers received an intravenous bolus injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 2.5 μg/kg BW). Serum samples were stored at −80 °C until analyzed for cortisol, proinflammatory cytokines [tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), IL-6, and interferon gamma (IFN-γ)], and acute phase proteins (serum amyloid A, acid soluble protein, ceruloplasmin, and α-acid glycoprotein). Rectal temperatures increased in both breeds within 1 h after LPS, with RO producing a greater increase in RT than AG steers (P < 0.001). Serum cortisol and TNF-α increased (P < 0.01) in both breeds within 1 h after the LPS challenge. For cortisol, an overall breed effect (P < 0.02) was detected, such that AG steers had a higher cortisol response than RO steers. A breed × time interaction (P < 0.01) was observed for TNF-α, such that the response was delayed and extended in the RO steers compared with the AG steers. At 2 and 2.5 h after LPS, TNF-α concentrations were greater (P < 0.03) in RO steers than in AG steers. For IL-1β, a breed × time interaction (P < 0.04) was also observed. At 3 h after LPS, IL-1β concentrations were greater (P < 0.01) in RO steers than in AG steers. Serum IL-6 and IFN-γ increased (P < 0.01) in a similar manner in both groups after the LPS challenge. These data show differences in the innate immune response between two diverse Bos taurus breeds which may provide insight about differences observed in productivity, heat tolerance, disease resistance, and longevity among cattle breeds.
Trace determination of rhodium using proton activation followed by X-ray counting

The reaction103Rh(p, n)103Pd was investigated for the trace detection of Rh. Maximum activation of Rh with minimal interferences was achieved with protons of 11 MeV. The detection limit for the nondestructive assay of Rh is 0.03 ppm.
Solid‐state reaction kinetics in single‐phase polymerizations

The kinetics of single‐phase solid‐state polymerization reactions are evaluated using two different approximations for the effect of structural changes at intermediate conversions. Conversion curves are calculated for monomer phases which undergo large dimensional changes in the reaction direction (crystal strain approximation) and for monomer phases which are essentially dimensionally invariant during reaction (nearest neighbor approximation). Using the crystal strain approximation and experimentally derived elastic constants, the different autocatalytic reaction curves observed for thermal and radiation‐induced polymerization of a diacetylenic monomer are successfully predicted. The dramatic autocatalytic effect for thermal polymerization can be explained quantitatively by a strain‐dependent rate of chain initiation and chain propagation, while the weaker autocatalytic effect for γ‐ray induced polymerization suggests that radiation‐induced chain initiation is relatively insensitive to crystal strain. Chain propagation lengths as a function of conversion and the effects of external stress and impurities on reaction kinetics are also predicted using the model.
Linking emergency management networks to disaster resilience: bonding and bridging strategy in hierarchical or horizontal collaboration networks

Disaster scholars have investigated the nature of organizational resilience, but extant research has not examined various network strategies within hierarchical and horizontal collaboration structures. The question of how the structural arrangements for collaboration within emergency management networks influence disaster resilience remains unanswered. This study begins to fill this lacuna by analyzing a bonding and bridging strategy for interorganizational collaboration to determine how these patterns of organizational relations might enhance the level of organizational resilience in each hierarchical and horizontal emergency management network. Bonding strategies highlight the importance of trust and information redundancy to emergency preparedness and response. Bridging strategies capture the tendency for local actors to seek partners to obtain crucial information and resources across the region. The results support the study hypothesis that bridging strategies in hierarchical emergency management networks have a positive effect on the level of organizational resilience. Neither type of network strategy influenced resilience in horizontal network structures. The findings confirm that the coordinating role of the national and provincial governments is critical to the building of a resilient community in terms of interorganizational collaboration, and demonstrate the steering role of the national and provincial governments with regard to resilience.
IRON SUPPLEMENTATION IN VITRO AND THE STATE OF AGGREGATION AND FUNCTION OF RETICULOCYTE RIBOSOMES IN HEMOGLOBIN SYNTHESIS.

Abstract It has been established that the availability of iron for formation of heme ( Kruh and Borsook, 1956 ; Borsook et , al. , 1957 ) or heme itself ( Bruns and London, 1965 ) regulates the capacity of the rabbit reticulocyte not only for synthesis of hemoglobin but also for formation of the protein moiety, globin. Some characteristics of the control of globin synthesis by a non-protein component, iron, and its influence on the state of aggregation and activity of the ribosomes in the intact reticulocyte are considered in this communication.
To Fair Value or Not to Fair Value: A Broader Perspective

Fair value is considered here with respect to the two primary objectives of financial statements proposed in the joint conceptual framework that is under development by the FASB and the IASB, namely (a) informativeness—to assist providers of capital in predicting, evaluating, and comparing the amounts, timing and uncertainty of future cash flows, and (b) stewardship—to assist in evaluating how efficient and effective managers have been in enhancing shareholders’ value. More specifically, a comprehensive set of accounting measures and a set of corporate governance reforms intended to align corporate insiders’ and auditors’ behaviour and decisions with the interests of investors is outlined. Suggested reforms show how to present a mix of effectively historical quantifications, exit values, and the discounted values of future cash flows expected from the particularized use of combinations of assets within the firm. Additionally, the article describes how markets can be reformed in order to align the interests of the officers who prepare such accounts, and the auditors who certify them, with those of investors. These market-based reforms would require auditors to insure misrepresentations, and managers to take equity to induce truthful reporting. Also included is a radical extension to earlier proposals by the author, requiring an officer of the company to make the market in shares in a way that would place limits upon the value of the insider's private information.
In situ mechanistic characterisations of granular pavement foundation layers

This paper presents experimental test results comparing in situ point test measurements using falling weight deflectometer (FWD), light weight deflectometer (LWD), dynamic cone penetrometer and static piezocone, and near continuous roller-integrated continuous compaction control measurements on a granular pavement foundation embankment. Piezoelectric earth pressure cells buried in the pavement foundation layers were used to compare vertical and horizontal stresses during vibratory roller compaction, and LWD and FWD impulse loading. The resulting total stress paths are compared with standard laboratory resilient modulus stress paths. Insights into differences in measurement influence depths and comparison of vertical stress profiles for the different measurements are discussed and relationships between the various measurements in terms of elastic modulus are presented. Some practical considerations for interpreting the relationships and implementation are discussed.
The Kur in West Germany as an interface between naturopathic and allopathic ideologies

In countries where biomedicine developed from earlier medical knowledge, medical pluralism provides unusual cultural parameters and perspectives on biomedical epistemologies. Past therapy traditions, which are still salient in the biomedical system of West Germany today, are examined historically and ethnomedically. The Kur, now part of a complex system of rehabilitation medicine utilizing medical bathing and environmental stimuli, illustrates divergent ideologies in the contemporary German health care system. The influence of cultural, social, and political-economic factors on therapeutic eclecticism and directions are discussed as cultural dynamics of the biomedical system in general.
Sprouting side chain conformations

Abstract 27 Examples of sprouting side chains using x-plor are discussed in relation to rotamer search procedures.
Night sky brightness in Maryland and Greenland during 1949

The measurements relate chiefly to the light ascribed to the upper atmosphere, as a function of altitude above the horizon. They do not show any important changes with latitude. Night-to-night and long-term fluctuations are revealed by the studies, which are still in progress. Possible correlations with other cosmic data have been examined; the only correlations thus far developed are with the long-term trends of solar coronal indices as observed at Climax, Colorado.
Even Data Bases That Lie Can Be Compromised

Users can compromise data bases by asking a series of questions, even when the data bases are allowed to lie.
Primer on Reforms in a Second-Best Ambiguous Environment: A Case for Gradualism

Ambiguity, as opposed to uncertainty, reflects lack of sufficient information about distribution and payoffs of infrequent events. Reforms are infrequent events, undertaken in ambiguous second-best environments where bad reform outcomes are feasible. A general case for the gradualist reform strategy is that it may pay to defer some reforms until relevant information about possible reform outcomes and associated probabilities is revealed, and ambiguity is reduced over time. Gradualism may dominate the big bang strategy, if some of the reforms in a reform sequence are not sure bets and waiting costs do not dominate reversal costs under some information sets forthcoming over time. The relation to Ellsberg's Paradox is discussed. Some cases for and against gradualism are reviewed.
Teaching Interviewees Employment Interviewing Skills: A Test of Two Alternatives

Instructors of business and technical communication courses continually search for ways to improve their classroom and professional training exercises. Toward that end, this investigation examines two methods of conducting an employment interviewing training exercise for interviewees. Specifically, instructor-facilitated and peer-facilitated interviewing exercises are compared. Data collected from interviewing classes show that students preferred the instructor-facilitated over the peer-facilitated training exercise. Advantages and disadvantages of the instructor-facilitated exercise are discussed, and suggestions for further examination are offered.
Stable reduction of thymidine kinase activity in cells expressing high levels of anti-sense RNA.

Summary Anti-sense thymidine kinase (TK) RNA was expressed as part of a chimeric dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) anti-sense TK transcript. High level expression was obtained by selection of cells resistant to progressively higher levels of methotrexate, provided by over-production of DHFR. The result was a concomitant increase in intracellular anti-sense TK RNA level owing to its presence on the same transcription unit as DHFR. In several cell lines expressing high levels of anti-sense TK RNA, thymidine kinase activity was reduced by 80%–90%. RNA:RNA duplexes were detected in the nuclear fraction. The results suggest a mechanism for diminution of TK activity; anti-sense RNA hybridizes with sense TK RNA in the nucleus, and duplex containing TK transcripts fail to enter the cytoplasm with normal efficiency.
The alignment of ice crystals in changing electric fields

Abstract Orientation of ice crystals in the form of thin plates (diameter up to 30 μm, thickness 0.5 to a few μm) was investigated optically for crystals nucleated in a supercooled cloud in a laboratory cold chamber. Random orientation caused by Brownian rotation of small crystals (apparent as twinkling) and alignment caused by airflow resulting from fall motion of larger crystals was changed by application of an electric field either as a step or as an oscillating square wave of variable frequency of order 1–10 Hz. Video records and time exposed still photographs demonstrated crystal fall, oscillation, and orientation changes with electric field magnitude and frequency. Thin film interference colours provided crystal thickness, mass, and moment of inertia. Realignment began for electric fields greater than 0.5–1 kV/m and was complete above 10 kV/m. Measurements of degree of alignment (from random orientation to completely parallel to the electric field) and its time dependence (of order tenths of seconds) are consistent with predictions of a theoretical oscillator model based on electrical torques on ellipsoids in viscous air. In a changing electric field at low frequency, the crystal realignment varies along with the variation field and at high frequency they remain aligned along the average field. These results are applied to larger crystals as occur in the atmosphere with implication for remote sensing of ice by radar and lidar as influenced by local electric fields and with the possibility of their remote measurement by optical observation of changing crystal orientations.
Multifamily farms and America's farm structure: A new perspective on an old issue

This study examined the extent and nature of multifamily farms in Iowa. Based on a random sample phone survey conducted in 1997, it was found that over one-fourth (26%) of Iowa's farms would be classified as multifamily farms. Multifamily farms showed significant differences from their single-family farm counterparts in several areas. They tended to have younger operators and larger operations, and the operators were more likely to consider farming as their principal occupation. In addition, they had more diverse operations and generated larger farm and family incomes. The farms were further classified based on their annual sales. As expected, non-commercial farms (sales less than $50, 000) had the lowest percentage of multifamily farms (21%). Small-commercial farms with sales from $50,000 to $250,000 were 30% multifamily, while large-commercial farms were 35% multifamily. The study also addressed whether or not policy restrictions based on age and income would discriminate against farms due to the multifamily farm phenomenon. A logit regression analysis was performed to determine if a multifamily structure was significant in predicting whether or not a farm was small. The results showed that multifamily relations were not a significant predictor. A growing phenomenon in U.S. agriculture, namely the multifamily farm, was examined. A significant percentage of Iowa farms was found to be multifamily. There were many differences between multifamily and single-family farms, but these differences did not display any predictive power. More research is needed in order to understand multifamily farms, a structure that will likely continue to grow and influence U.S. agriculture and outreach programs.
Advancements in SQL/XML

Since we last wrote about SQL/XML in [2], the first edition of that new part of the SQL standard has been officially published as an international standard [1], commonly called SQL/XML:2003. At the time of that earlier column, SQL/XML was just entering its first official ballot, meaning that (possibly significant) changes to the text were expected in response to ballot comments submitted by the various participants in the SQL standardization process.
Steroidogenesis in Fundulus heteroclitus: III. Evidence for involvement of cAMP and protein synthesis in the gonadotropic modulation of ovarian steroid production and aromatase activity

The role of cAMP and the involvement of protein synthesis in ovarian steroidogenesis and aromatase activity of the killifish Fundulus heteroclitus were examined by using isolated prematurational follicles (1.2–1.4 mm diameter) cultured in vitro. Addition of dibutyryl cAMP (dbcAMP) or cAMP in combination with an inhibitor of its catabolism [3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX)] promoted a dose-dependent increase of media 17α-hydroxy,2β-dihydroprogesterone (17α-OH,20β-DHP), testosterone (T), and 17β-estradiol (E2) levels, comparable to the response invoked by a F.heteroclitus pituitary extract (FPE). In addition to steroid production, there was a two-fold increment in follicular 3H-leucine incorporation following FPE treatment, probably due to stimulation of protein synthesis. Cycloheximide blocked both 3H-leucine incorporation and steroid production in a dose-related manner. FPE also promoted a dose-related enhancement (more than an additive effect) of E2 accumulation when T was included in the culture media. Results obtained with dbcAMP or cAMP + IBMX in combination with T were essentially the same as with FPE and T, indicating that FPE or increasing levels of cAMP are able to modify aromatase activity. When the endogenous production of E2 caused by FPE or cAMP (dbcAMP or cAMP + IBMX) treatment was suppressed by the use of trilostane (an inhibitor of Δ5-3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase), the conversion of exogenous T to E2 was still significantly enhanced. However, no such stimulatory effect on aromatase activity was observed under the same conditions in the presence of cycloheximide. Taken together these results suggest that FPE-stimulated follicular steroid production by large, prematurational follicles is likely mediated by an intracellular increase in cAMP levels and involves protein synthesis, including that of aromatase. Also, the production of maturation-initiating steroid by F. heteroclitus follicles does not appear to be affected by physiological levels of E2, unlike the situation reported for other fish and amphibians.
Clinical Profile And Long-Term Implications of Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy

Of 196 patients with anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, 169 had the nonarteritic form and 27 had the arteritic type. Visual acuities were 20/40 or better in 83 of 184 eyes with nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy but only eight of 45 eyes with the arteritic type. We found systemic disease associations for hypertension and diabetes mellitus only for patients with nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy who were between 45 and 64 years of age. After a mean follow-up period of five years, 92 nonarteritic patients showed no changes in the first affected eye; there was eventual involvement of the second eye in 20 patients.
Differences in mating propensities: some models for examining the genetic consequences.

Several models of mating behavior are described. The rates at which matings occur are described by differential equations. When several types of males are present with several types of females, the rates are described by a system of such equations. Different modes of pair formation result in different equations, and differences in mating propensities result in different constants in the equations. Two types of pair formation are examined: promiscuous pair formation and permanent pair formation. These models are found satisfactory when tested against observations of mating in flour beetles and houseflies. Some ways in which different mating propensities may affect the genetic structure of populations are examined in the light of these models.
Learning regularization functionals—a supervised training approach

We consider the solution of a distributed parameter estimation problem where the data are contaminated by noise. A common approach to solve such a problem is to use Tikhonov style regularization; however, it is not always clear what type of regularization penalty should be used for a given problem as different regularization operators may yield very different solutions. Here we use supervised learning techniques to determine a regularization functional given a training set of feasible solutions. Our approach leads to a constraint optimization problem that we solve using inexact sequential quadratic programming type methods. We illustrate the methodology with two examples.
Protease inhibitors: A new weapon and a new strategy against HIV

Until recently, reverse transcriptase inhibitors have been the mainstay for treating HIV infection. Now, three protease inhibitors have been approved. Early evidence suggests that triple therapy delays the progression of HIV infection. An understanding of these new drugs and treatment strategies is imperative for clinicans. This article (1) reviews HIV's structure and replication process, (2) discusses currently approved reverse transcriptase and protease inhibitors, (3) describes the antiretroviral drugs' modes of action, (4) discusses important nursing implications for monitoring clients on these drugs, and (5) presents current scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of combination therapy strategies.
Forever young: SIRT3 a shield against mitochondrial meltdown, aging, and neurodegeneration.

Caloric restriction, fasting, and exercise have long been recognized for their neuroprotective and lifespan-extending properties; however, the underlying mechanisms of these phenomena remain elusive. Such extraordinary benefits might be linked to the activation of sirtuins. In mammals, the sirtuin family has seven members (SIRT1-7), which diverge in tissue distribution, subcellular localization, enzymatic activity and targets. SIRT1, SIRT2, and SIRT3 have deacetylase activity. Their dependence on NAD+ directly links their activity to the metabolic status of the cell. High NAD+ levels convey neuroprotective effects, possibly via activation of sirtuin family members. Mitochondrial sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) has received much attention for its role in metabolism and aging. Specific small nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in Sirt3 are linked to increased human lifespan. SIRT3 mediates the adaptation of increased energy demand during caloric restriction, fasting and exercise to increased production of energy equivalents. SIRT3 deacetylates and activates mitochondrial enzymes involved in fatty acid β-oxidation, amino acid metabolism, the electron transport chain, and antioxidant defenses. As a result, the mitochondrial energy metabolism increases. In addition, SIRT3 prevents apoptosis by lowering reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibiting components of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Mitochondrial deficits associated with aging and neurodegeneration might therefore be slowed or even prevented by SIRT3 activation. In addition, upregulating SIRT3 activity by dietary supplementation of sirtuin activating compounds might promote the beneficial effects of this enzyme. The goal of this review is to summarize emerging data supporting a neuroprotective action of SIRT3 against Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Huntington’s disease (HD), Parkinson’s disease (PD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Simulation for maintenance of certification in anesthesiology: The first two years

The ultimate goal of physician education is the application of knowledge and skills to patient care. The Maintenance of Certification (MOC) for Anesthesiologists program incorporates mannequin-based simulation to help realize this goal. Results from the first 2 years of experience suggest that 583 physician participants transferred knowledge and skills from their simulated experiences into real-world practice. Participants consistently found the experience educationally valuable and clinically relevant, and reported that it led to changes in practice. This first experience with mannequin-based simulation for MOC indicates that physicians accept this teaching modality, many with enthusiasm. Simulation education addresses many of the identified intentions of current continuing medical education (CME) and can help educators realize goals for educating physician-learners.
A Comparative Evaluation of Job Techniques in the Tree Nursery Industry

A pilot study was conducted as part of a larger project to assist a labor/management ergonomics team at a bareroot tree nursery in Washington State in developing potential solutions for reducing or eliminating risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Measurements were collected of employees performing the jobs of Bin Unloading, Grading/Counting and Bag Closing using two different work techniques and workstation settings. Muscle activity (electromyography) of the distal upper extremity and back motion (Lumbar Motion Monitor) on three axes were recorded to determine differences in the WMSD risk factors between techniques. Bin unloading was performed with a bin flat on the stand and with the bin raised and tilted towards the worker. For grading/counting, the conveyor belts used to move trees were arranged in a stacked configuration and a side-by-side configuration. Closing the bags was performed by rolling the bag with two people and by folding the bags with one person. Paired t-tests...
Evolving subduction zones in the Western United States, as interpreted from igneous rocks.

Variations in the ratio of K2O to SiO2 in andesitic rocks suggest early and middle Cenozoic subduction beneath the western United States along two subparallel imbricate zones dipping about 20 degrees eastward. The western zone emerged at the continental margin, but the eastern zone was entirely beneath the continental plate. Mesozoic subduction apparently occurred along a single steeper zone.
Risk of Catecholamine Crisis in Patients Undergoing Resection of Unsuspected Pheochromocytoma

PURPOSE: To report the risk of catecholamine crisis in patients undergoing resection of unsuspected pheochromocytoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Over a four-year period, we retrospectively identified four patients who underwent resection of adrenal pheochromocytoma in whom the diagnosis was unsuspected based on preoperative clinical, biochemical, and imaging evaluation. RESULTS: None of the patients exhibited preoperative clinical features of catecholamine excess. Preoperative biochemical screening in two patients was normal. CT scan performed in all patients demonstrated a nonspecific enhancing adrenal mass. During surgical resection of the adrenal mass, hemodynamic instability was observed in two of four patients, and one of these two patients also suffered a myocardial infarct. CONCLUSION: Both surgeons and radiologists should maintain a high index of suspicion for pheochromocytoma, as the tumor can be asymptomatic, biochemically negative, and have nonspecific imaging features. Resection of such unsuspected pheochromocytomas carries a substantial risk of intraoperative hemodynamic instability.
Child spacing and birth order: effect on intellectual ability in two-child families

The effect on intellectual ability of the spacing of the birth of siblings was studied in two series of young men from two-child families: (i) 535 pairs of brothers and (ii) 1511 unrelated firstborn and secondborn. Birth-order effect and level of ability were not influenced by length of interval between firstborn and secondborn.
A Computer Model for Stress Analysis of Spherically Curved Solar Panels

Construction d'un modele d'ordinateur pour l'analyse des contraintes mecaniques dans un reflecteur solaire hemispherique au cours de sa mise en forme. Comparaison des resultats obtenus a l'aide de ce modele avec des donnees theoriques et experimentales disponibles
L-CARNITINE FOR CYSTIC FIBROSIS

A fatty acid abnormality has been suggested for cystic fibrosis (CF) because CF secretions have 1) excess fatty acids bound to glycoprotein and 2) high levels of leukotrienes, a specific group of fatty acids. Carnitine transports fatty acids into mitochondria where they are oxidized. Serum free and acyl carnitines in 10 CF patients averaged 46.27 and 6.35 nmol/ml respectively, and could not be distinguished from control levels. However, the basis for the research was that excess carnitine may increase pulmonary metabolism of fatty acids. We have given oral carnitine to 3 CF patients with recent clinical deterioration and 6 stable CF patients.
LYMPHOCYTE CYTOTOXICITY: A POSSIBLE IN-VITRO TEST FOR CONTACT DERMATITIS

Abstract Lymphocytes from guineapigs with contact sensitivity to dinitrofluorobenzene (D.N.F.B.) damaged target cells (chicken red blood-cells) conjugated with D.N.F.B. This phenomenon is shown only with peripheral circulating lymphocytes and not with lymph-node lymphocytes. Circulating lymphocytes cytotoxic to carrier cells coated with the hapten were present in the circulation from the twelfth day after one contact with D.N.F.B.
Clinical outcomes of intensity-modulated pelvic radiation therapy for carcinoma of the cervix.

Purpose To evaluate disease outcomes and toxicity in cervical cancer patients treated with pelvic intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). Methods and Materials We included all patients with Stage I–IVA cervical carcinoma treated with IMRT at three different institutions from 2000–2007. Patients treated with extended field or conventional techniques were excluded. Intensity-modulated radiation therapy plans were designed to deliver 45 Gy in 1.8-Gy daily fractions to the planning target volume while minimizing dose to the bowel, bladder, and rectum. Toxicity was graded according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group system. Overall survival and disease-free survival were estimated by use of the Kaplan-Meier method. Pelvic failure, distant failure, and late toxicity were estimated by use of cumulative incidence functions. Results The study included 111 patients. Of these, 22 were treated with postoperative IMRT, 8 with IMRT followed by intracavitary brachytherapy and adjuvant hysterectomy, and 81 with IMRT followed by planned intracavitary brachytherapy. Of the patients, 63 had Stage I–IIA disease and 48 had Stage IIB–IVA disease. The median follow-up time was 27 months. The 3-year overall survival rate and the disease-free survival rate were 78% (95% confidence interval [CI], 68–88%) and 69% (95% CI, 59–81%), respectively. The 3-year pelvic failure rate and the distant failure rate were 14% (95% CI, 6–22%) and 17% (95% CI, 8–25%), respectively. Estimates of acute and late Grade 3 toxicity or higher were 2% (95% CI, 0–7%) and 7% (95% CI, 2–13%), respectively. Conclusions Intensity-modulated radiation therapy is associated with low toxicity and favorable outcomes, supporting its safety and efficacy for cervical cancer. Prospective clinical trials are needed to evaluate the comparative efficacy of IMRT vs. conventional techniques.
Virtual Thermal Sensing and Control of Heat Distribution Using State Estimation

Many industrial applications require or can be improved by strict control of the temperature distribution on a surface. This initial investigation presents modeling and control of heat flow on an aluminum plate. Temperature distribution is modeled using a dense equivalent electrical circuit. An observer is designed based on the model to estimate the temperature distribution on the plate. The estimation is used in a controller to regulate the temperature of a desired point on the plate, given discrete heat input elements but no cooling elements. Experiments are conducted to compare the realism of the heat flow model and efficacy of the control method with experimental data. Results show that the steady state error between the actual and estimated temperatures at different points on the surface is always less than 0.5°C, which indicates accurate estimation of the temperature. The RMS error between desired and actual temperatures through all experiments is less than 2°C which indicates fast regulation and low steady state error.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Sclerostin antibody improves skeletal parameters in a Brtl/+ mouse model of osteogenesis imperfecta

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic bone dysplasia characterized by osteopenia, easy susceptibility to fracture, and skeletal deformities. Current treatment options for OI focus on antiresorptive bisphosphonates which have been shown to be effective at increasing vertebral areal bone mineral density and height in clinical trials. However, bisphosphonate effects in long bones are less evident and most pediatric OI trials observe little or no functional benefit. New treatments for OI are needed to increase bone mass throughout the skeleton. Sclerostin is a negative regulator of the Wnt pathway, and a neutralizing sclerostin antibody (Scl-Ab) therapy has proven to be strongly anabolic in other rodent fragility models as well as initial clinical trials. Whether Scl-Ab therapy is capable of stimulating osteoblast activity in animals harboring a typical OI-causing mutation has yet to be demonstrated. The purpose of this project was to evaluate Scl-Ab in a Brtl/+ mouse model of type IV OI with a Gly349Cys mutation on col1a1. We initially sought to determine whether Brtl/+ osteoblasts would respond to short-term Scl-Ab therapy in vivo . Starting with the most well-characterized age in Brtl/+, we treated 8-week old WT and Brtl/+ for 2 weeks with 25mg/kg of Scl-Ab. Scl-Ab proved anabolic and significantly elevated serum osteocalcin levels and also increased periosteal cortical bone-formation rate as measured by dynamic histomorphometry in both WT and Brtl/+ mice. Despite the short-term treatment, Scl-Ab significantly improved cortical bone mass as measured by microCT, which led to greater whole-bone femoral strength as measured by mechanical testing. Fluorescent-guided nanoindentation revealed that Scl-Ab did not change the tissue elastic modulus of the bone formed during the treatment period. These positive results led us to pursue studies of longer term Scl-Ab therapies (5 weeks) at both adult (6 months) and pediatric (3 weeks) ages in Brtl/+. Initial results from these studies in both 6-month and 3-week old Brtl/+ mice indicate that Scl-Ab is strongly anabolic and significantly increases cortical bone mass as well as whole-bone mechanical strength in the femur. In conclusion, Scl-Ab was successfully anabolic in Brtl/+ mice harboring a typical OI-causing collagen mutation and represents a potential new therapy to improve bone mass and reduce fractures in OI.
Thermoanalytical characteristics of polycarboxylic acids investigated as durable press agents for cotton textiles

Polycarboxylic acids are of great interest to the cotton textile industry as durable press agents because they do not release substances that require mandatory monitoring. Differential scanning colorimetric (DSC), thermogravimetric (TG), and differential thermogravimetric (DTG) techniques were used to study the thermal characteristics of a series of 10 polycarboxylic acids. Samples included di-, tri-, and tetra-functional compounds some of which contained olefinic linkages, hydroxyl substituents, and cyclic structure. Thermogravimetric data at simulated fabric cure temperatures was used to assess the potential of a compound for use as a textile finishing agent. In high-temperature studies the compounds were readily distinguishable in DSC analyses. General characteristics such as increases in total heats of reactions were found to be related to the number of functional groups. These results also provided support for a mechanism for the reaction of polycarboxylic acids with cellulose through an anhydride intermediate.
U.S. Kiwifruit Industry Model: Annual Supply and Monthly Demand

A dynamic econometric model of the U.S. kiwifruit industry provides a framework for empirical analysis of small-scale commodities, particularly those used by producers for diversification. Production and marketing processes are explained by annual and monthly components, respectively. Results confirm that plantings were speculative and that economic feasibility critically impacts acreage retention as the industry matures. Prices at alternative outlets and fruit quality in storage affect monthly shipments. Flexibilities of monthly f.o.b. prices imply elastic kiwifruit demand, and imports are found to be substitutes. The industry could increase its average annual gross revenue by marketing the crop earlier in the season.
Real-time roadway emissions estimation using visual traffic measurements

Monitoring the state of our roadways has become increasingly important in order to better manage traffic congestion. Sophisticated traffic management systems are being developed that are able to process both static and mobile sensor data that provide traffic information for the roadway network. In addition to typical traffic data such as flow, density, and average traffic speed, there is now strong interest in environmental factors such as greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions from traffic. It is now possible to combine real-time traffic data along with instantaneous emission models to estimate these environmental measures in real-time. In this paper, we describe a system that can more accurately determine average traffic fuel economy, CO 2 , CO, HC, and NO x emissions using a computer vision-based methodology that also incorporates energy/emission profiles from the comprehensive modal emissions model CMEM and EPA's MOVES emission factor database. The vision system provides information not only on average traffic speed, density, and flow, but also on individual vehicle trajectories and recognized vehicle categories. The vehicle trajectories for the specific identified categories are used by the emissions model to predict environmental parameters. This estimation process provides far more dynamic and accurate environmental information compared to static emission inventory estimation models.
A CLASS OF CHARACTER SUMS

asterisk (*) meansthat the singularities (modp) of r, and r2 are excluded and in the sum 1 lo (o f 0 (modp)) is to be interpreted as the unique integer w (modp) such that ow = 1 (modp)). Perel'muter has given conditions under which this sum is O(pf), thus generalizing the earlier deep work of Weil [4] and Carlitz and Uchiyama [2]. It is the purpose of this note to show that Perel'muter's work can be applied to estimate the character sum
Detection of Mixed Populations of Clostridium difficile from Symptomatic Patients Using Capillary-Based Polymerase Chain Reaction Ribotyping

Molecular epidemiologic studies of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) are possible, in part, because of low-cost typing techniques that differentiate between genotypes. For C. difficile, restriction endonuclease analysis typing,1 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) ribotyping,2 and multilocus variable number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA)3 have been the most broadly applied. In practice, funds for molecular typing (eg, personnel and reagents) are almost always limited, so most studies consider only a single C. difficile isolate per patient stool sample. This practice conflicts with reports of mixed CDI cases (we refer to mixed CDI as the simultaneous occurrence of more than 1 genotype of C. difficile in a patient's gastrointestinal tract, where at least 1 of the genotypes encodes for a C. difficile toxin).4–7 Recently described high-throughput protocols for PCR ribotyping make it possible to screen thousands of isolates at relatively low cost.8,9 This technologic advance, however, has yet to gain widespread use and has not been applied to examine mixed CDI cases. Previous studies of mixed CDI have either narrowly focused on community-acquired disease7 or considered only a few isolates (5 or fewer) per patient sample.4–6 Three important questions to be addressed are as follows: (1) What level of sampling is needed to adequately detect genotype mixtures? (2) How frequently can genotype mixtures be detected in patient stool samples? (3) At what ratio, if any, is a genotype mixture clinically important? In this study, we address the first 2 questions using high-throughput PCR ribotyping so that adequately powered studies can be designed to address the third question.
HER2 status and breast cancer therapy: recent advances

The phenotype imparted by expression of the HER2 gene in breast cancer and progress made in modifying the disease's natural history through pharmacologically modulating its function has served as a paradigm for rationally targeted therapy and personalized medicine. About 20–25% of breast cancer cases are associated with HER2 gene amplification and overexpression, creating a distinct subtype of breast cancer that is associated with more aggressive behaviour, higher likelihood of overall and brain metastases, and differential responsiveness to certain hormonal and chemotherapeutic agents. Anti-HER2 monoclonal antibodies have led to significant improvements in survival for both advanced and early stage HER2+ breast cancer, while newer agents, including other antibodies and HER2 receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors and signal transduction modulators, are also demonstrating clinical activity and represent further opportunities to improve curability and quality of life.
An Adaptive Low Rank Algorithm for Semispherical Antenna Arrays

Adaptive algorithms have been applied in beam-forming applications with adaptive linear and planar arrays. In this paper, we are concerned with adaptive beamforming algorithms for 3D semispherical arrays. We present a low rank adaptive algorithm, which we call the 3D low rank recursive least squares approximate power iteration. The algorithm uses a high performance subspace tracker integrated with a low rank RLS beamformer. The algorithm is computationally efficient compared to the RLS beamformer with better steady state performance and, in certain situations, equally fast convergence. The algorithm is evaluated in terms of computational complexity and adaptation speed with comparative results to the RLS beamformer.
Active lens control for high precision computer imaging

Lenses used in computer vision systems have many nonideal behaviors that can have a significant effect on vision tasks if not taken into account or compensated for. The authors show how two nonideal lens behaviors, chromatic aberration and focus magnification, can cause significant problems in color image analysis and focus ranging respectively. They show how precise active lens control can be used to reduce these effects significantly. >
Dietary Blueberries Attenuate Atherosclerosis in Apolipoprotein E-Deficient Mice by Upregulating Antioxidant Enzyme Expression

Protective effects of blueberries (BB) against atherosclerosis and potential underlying mechanisms in reducing oxidative stress were examined in apoE-deficient (apoE(-/-)) mice. ApoE(-/-) mice were fed an AIN-93G diet (CD) or CD formulated to contain 1% freeze-dried whole BB for 20 wk. The mean lesion area for apoE(-/-) mice fed BB was reduced by 39% (P < 0.001) in the aorta sinus and 58% (P < 0.001) in the descending aorta compared with CD-fed mice. These atheroprotective effects were independent of the serum lipid profile or total antioxidant capacity (as measured by oxygen radical absorbance capacity). The concentration of a biomarker of lipid peroxidation, F(2)-isoprostane, was lower in liver of BB-fed mice (P < 0.05). Genes analyzed by RT-PCR array showed that 4 major antioxidant enzymes in aorta [superoxide dismutase (SOD) 1, SOD2, glutathione reductase (GSR), and thioredoxin reductase 1] were upregulated in BB-fed mice. Enzyme activities of SOD and GSR were greater (P < 0.05) in liver and/or serum of BB-fed mice than those of CD-fed mice. In addition, serum paraoxonase 1 activity in serum of BB-fed mice was also greater than that of CD-fed mice (P < 0.05) at the end of the study. These results suggest a protective effectiveness of BB against atherosclerosis in this apoE(-/-) mouse model. The potential mechanisms may involve reduction in oxidative stress by both inhibition of lipid peroxidation and enhancement of antioxidant defense.
Public Confidence in Charitable Nonprofits

There has been much talk in recent years of a “crisis of confidence in charities” in the United States. This article presents a conceptual framework for analyzing the issue and reviews attitudinal and behavioral data relevant to public confidence in the nonprofit sector generally and major nonprofit subsectors. The article concludes that the “crisis of confidence” hypothesis is not supported by the evidence.
Biochemical characterization of plant biotin-containing enzymes

3-Methylcrotonyl-CoA carboxylase has been purified to near homogeneity from maize leaves. The resulting preparations of 3-methylcrotonyl-CoA carboxylase have a specific activity of between 200 and 600 nmol-min'l-mg"l protein, representing an approximately 5,000-fold purification of the enzyme. The purified 3-methylcrotonyl-CoA carboxylase has a molecular weight of 853,000 + 34,000 and is composed of two types of subunits, a biotin-containing subunit of 80 ± 2 kDa and a nonbiotin-containing subunit of 58.5 ±1.5 kDa. These data suggest that the enzyme has an a6b6 configuration. The optimum pH for activity is 8.0. The kinetic constants for the substrates 3-methylcrotonylCoA, ATP and HCO3" are 11 |iM, 20 |iM, and 0.8 mM, respectively. Kinetic studies of the 3-methylcrotonyl-CoA carboxylase reaction with variable concentrations of two substrates confirmed that ATP and HCOs' bind sequentially to the enzyme and that ATP and 3methylcrotonyl-CoA bind in ping-pong fashion. However, similar analyses indicate that the binding of HCO3" at the first site is affected by 3-methylcrotonyl-CoA. Kinetic studies of ^Reprinted with permission from Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics 1994, 310, 64-75. ^Recipient of a Fulbright-LASPAU Doctoral Scholarship. ^To whom correspondence should be addressed. *Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and ^Department of Botany, Iowa State University, Ames, lA 50011
Reflections on the Opportunities and Challenges of Disaster Response

This reaction article applauds the authors of the Major Contribution for their thoughtful and thorough consideration of the myriad issues that accompany disaster mental health work. The reaction highlights three themes that emerged in the articles of the contribution: opportunities for collaboration, opportunities for the application of social justice, and opportunities for bioecological research and interventions. In addition, suggestions are made for future exploration of prevention opportunities, separating the reality of disaster response from popular media images, and ethical considerations for counseling psychologists working as disaster responders.