cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development of Forodesine Hydrochloride (FH), an Inhibitor of Purine Nucleoside Phosphorylase, for Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL).

Mammalian purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP) catalyzes the cleavage of inosine, deoxyinosine, guanosine, and deoxyguanosine (dGuo) to their corresponding base and sugar 1-phosphate by phosphorolysis. PNP deficiency in humans produces a relatively selective depletion of T cells without much effect on normal B cells. FH, a potent inhibitor of PNP, was designed based on the transition-state analog structure stabilized by the enzyme. Previous studies demonstrated that FH in the presence of dGuo inhibits the proliferation of T-lymphocytes (Kicska et al. PNAS 2001). Based on these observations, we conducted a phase I clinical trial of FH in patients with advanced T-cell malignancies. Significant antileukemic activity was correlated with an increase in plasma FH (median 5 μM) and dGuo (median 14 μM), and an accumulation of intracellular dGuo triphosphate (dGTP) (Gandhi et al, Blood, in press, 2005). High accumulation of dGTP in T-cells may be dependant on activity of deoxynucleoside kinases. Because B-CLL cells have high activity of deoxycytidine kinase, we hypothesized that they would be sensitive to FH. This postulate was tested in primary CLL lymphocytes during in vitro investigations. Lymphocytes from patients with CLL were incubated in vitro with FH (2 μM) in the presence of 10 μM dGuo. Lymphocytes from 3 of 4 patients showed an elevation in the intracellular dGTP levels to a median 30-fold at 8 hr, without any effect on other deoxynucleotides. This increase in dGTP was associated with phosphorylation of p53 at ser15, stabilization of p53, and an increase in p21 protein. The dGTP accumulation was related to induction of apoptosis measured by activation of caspase 8, 9, and 3 and cleavage of PARP. Incubation with either FH or dGuo alone did not result in dGTP accumulation or cell death suggesting that PNP inhibition by FH and phosphorylation of dGuo to dGTP are essential for CLL cell death. Based on these encouraging results, availability of oral formulation and to validate these in vitro data during clinical trial, a phase II study of FH in patients with advanced, fludarabine-refractory CLL has been initiated. FH is administered orally at a dose of 200 mg/day for 7 days each week for 4 weeks (cycle 1). Patients are evaluated after 1 full cycle of therapy and in the absence of serious side effects, or disease progression, they continue the treatment for up to 5 more cycles. Laboratory endpoints such as level of FH and dGuo in plasma, PNP activity, dGTP levels in cells, will be measured and correlated with cytoreduction. It is postulated that a high kinase/low nucleotidase activity leading to the accumulation of intracellular dGTP in target CLL cells and apoptosis (akin to what has been seen in T-cells) will result in response to therapy. This is the first trial of a PNP inhibitor for treatment of B-CLL.
Investigating the physiological effects of 10.5 Tesla static field exposure on anesthetized swine

Purpose In this work, we investigated the relative effects of static magnetic field exposure (10.5 Tesla [T]) on two physiological parameters; blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR). Methods In vivo, we recorded both BP and HR in 4 swine (3 female, 1 male) while they were positioned within a 10.5T magnet. All measurements were performed invasively within these anesthetized animals by the placement of pressure catheters into their carotid arteries. Results We measured average increases of 2.0 mm Hg (standard deviation [SD], 6.9) in systolic BP and an increase of 4.5 mm Hg (SD, 13.7) in the diastolic BPs: We also noted an average increase of 1.2 beats per minute (SD, 2.5) in the HRs during such. Conclusion Data regarding changes in BP and HR in anesthetized swine attributed to whole-body 10.5T exposure are reported. Magn Reson Med 79:511–514, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Survey data reflecting popular opinions of the causes and mitigation of climate change

Abstract The data presented within this manuscript reports the results of a 20-question opinion survey concerning popular beliefs regarding the causes of and possible mitigation of climate change. The results and opinions from 746 survey respondents are presented. The data reflects certain misconceptions of climate change, and is useful for investigators to begin forming opinions of the public's knowledge regarding the potentially inflammatory topics of climate change, greenhouse gases, and geo-engineering.
Effect of preparation methods on the properties of titania nanoparticles: solvothermal versus sol–gel

Titania (TiO2) nanoparticles (NP’s) have been prepared by solvothermal and sol–gel techniques using different surfactants such as acetic acid (AA), oleylamine (OM), and AA + OM. The solution was thermally treated at growth temperature 180 °C in solvothermal method. TiO2 powder, prepared using both methods, was subjected to post heat treatment at 550 and 950 °C. The effect of surfactants on the morphology of TiO2 NP’s was studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The structural and thermal properties of titania NP’s are investigated by means of X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry (TGA/DSC). TEM and FESEM images illustrated various shapes of titania NP’s such as irregular spherical, rounded rectangular, truncated rhombic, oval, and rod-like structure in presence of different surfactants. Moreover, TiO2 particles prepared by sol–gel method were almost 40 times greater than those prepared by solvothermal method. In addition to the improvement in the crystallinity, thermal stability has been enhanced due to consolidation of individual particles at higher annealing temperature in solvothermal technique. Furthermore, a reduction in the degradation temperature and phase transformation of TiO2 NP’s were conspicuously corroborated after post-heat treatment.
Recent cocktail beam developments at the 88-inch cyclotron for SEE testing

Electron Cyclotron Resonance (ECR) Ion Sources at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory's (LBNL) 88-Inch Cyclotron produce heavy ion cocktails to test the radiation hardness of spacecraft electronics. A 20 MeV/u cocktail is underway and the 10 MeV/u cocktail has been expanded to include gold.
A simplified field protocol for genetic sampling of birds using buccal swabs

ABSTRACT DNA sampling is an essential prerequisite for conducting population genetic studies. For many years, blood sampling has been the preferred method for obtaining DNA in birds because of their nucleated red blood cells. Nonetheless, use of buccal swabs has been gaining favor because they are less invasive yet still yield adequate amounts of DNA for amplifying mitochondrial and nuclear markers; however, buccal swab protocols often include steps (e.g., extended air-drying and storage under frozen conditions) not easily adapted to field settings. Furthermore, commercial extraction kits and swabs for buccal sampling can be expensive for large population studies. We therefore developed an efficient, cost-effective, and field-friendly protocol for sampling wild birds after comparing DNA yield among 3 inexpensive buccal swab types (2 with foam tips and 1 with a cotton tip). Extraction and amplification success was high (100% and 97.2% respectively) using inexpensive generic swabs. We found foam-tipped swab...
A Model Study of the Effect of the Intercalated Discs on Discontinuous Propagation in Cardiac Muscle

There is considerable evidence (1,13,14,22,23) to support the existence of low resistance end-to-end junctions (gap junctions or connexons (10,12,17) which lie in the intercalated discs that make up the associated end-to-end plasma membranes of cardiac muscle cells. Even though these gap junctions are low resistance, they represent a significant discontinuity in the conductive medium. Indeed, while these low resistance contacts are low in the sense of permitting an adequate current to flow and excite the postjunctional cell, an often quoted value for the intercalated disc resistance, 1 ohm-cm2, would be an impediment to axial current flow comparable to the entire myoplasm of the cell. In order to study the effects of these discontinuities due to the intercalated discs on propagation in cardiac muscle a “microscopic” discontinuous cable model which includes the intercalated discs was developed.
Cardiac allograft vasculopathy following fecal microbiota transplantation for recurrent C. difficile infection.

We report the case of a 3-year-old male who developed recurrent Clostridium difficile infection after receiving an orthotopic heart transplant. Despite multiple courses of antibiotics, C. difficile infection was persistent and he underwent a fecal microbiota transplant. The patient responded with resolution of his diarrhea. However, within 2 months he developed severe mixed rejection with high circulating donor-specific antibodies and significant coronary vasculopathy. Organ dysfunction led to the need for re-transplantation. The patient's postoperative course has since been complicated by pneumatosis intestinalis and recurrent C. difficile infection.
Substance use disorders and their effect on the psychiatric and justice systems

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES A high proportion of persons in institutionalized settings such as the criminal justice system and psychiatric hospitals have substance use disorders (SUDs). We explored the association between substance use, demographics, and criminal justice involvement in a population of patients placed on involuntary 72-h holds in a psychiatric facility. METHODS We retrospectively identified patients aged 18 through 57 years who had been placed on 72-h holds during an acute psychiatric hospitalization during a 1-year period. Data were analyzed with standard descriptive statistics, and data collection was reviewed by 2 randomly assigned psychiatrists. RESULTS We identified 336 patients placed on 72-h holds during an acute psychiatric stay. Of these, more than two-thirds (68.5%; n = 230) had an SUD. Compared with patients not using substances, those with SUDs were significantly more likely to be younger (p = .003), male (p = .005), and unmarried (p < .001) and to have criminal justice involvement before (p < .001) and after hospitalization (p < .001). The rate of unemployment was similarly high in both users (67.4%) and nonusers (69.2%). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Most patients on involuntary psychiatric holds have comorbid SUDs. These patients are more likely to have interacted with the criminal justice system and less likely to have social support in the form of marriage. Unemployment was common among all patients. SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE When SUDs are not treated by the criminal justice or mental health system, rehospitalization and criminal recidivism may result. (Am J Addict 2018;27:574-577).
Structural insight into Wnt signaling inhibition by Clostridium difficile toxin B

The incidence of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) has increased significantly worldwide, causing substantial morbidity and mortality. One of the major virulence factor, TcdB, manages to enter the colonic epithelia via the human frizzled proteins (FZDs), which are physiological receptors for Wnt morphogens. Binding of TcdB to FZDs inhibits Wnt signaling, which may contribute to pathogenesis of CDI. Here, we review the structural mechanism by which TcdB exploits to recognize FZDs for cell entry and inhibiting Wnt signaling, which reveals new strategies to modulate Wnt signaling for therapeutic interventions.
Clinical risk-based associations of lymph node dissection and detection of metastasis among men treated with radical prostatectomy.

284Background: Pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) is recommended for most men at risk for lymph node involvement at the time of radical prostatectomy (RP) yet is frequently omitted. We aimed to ex...
Suburbs around the Czech provincial city of České Budějovice – territorial arrangement and problems

The article is a contribution to discussions about the territorial arrangement of suburbs, their types and other settlements in suburban zones around post-socialist CEE provincial cities, based on the example of the South Bohemian “one-hundred-thousand” city of Ceske Budějovice, including territorial development problems of suburbs and other settlements. Suburbs, separated from the city by free space, originate there from the original villages. These suburbs are population-growing settlements with the majority of flats in newer houses, immigrants from the city and economically active people working in the city (based on census data and ongoing registrations). Nearby, moderately distant and more distant suburbs occur in three concentric suburban sub-zones around the examined city, in which the population and spatial size of the suburbs gradually diminish. Semi-suburbs with partial suburbanisation and small towns also occur there. The territorial development problems of some suburbs are mainly associated with the disordered (sub)urban sprawl, the inadequate architecture of new houses, the poor quality and capacity of the technical infrastructure, the lack of public transport connections to the city, the absence and low capacity of kindergartens and elementary schools, clashes with recreational second homes, the lack of greenery and the losses of agricultural land.
Race relations in the U.S. Virgin Islands: St. Thomas–a centennial perspective

Like so many other colonizing imperial governments (British, Dutch, French, Spanish, and Portuguese), Denmark also engaged in claiming Caribbean islands (namely St. Thomas in 1671, St. John in 1718...
HPV-ISH-Negative Invasive Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Histologic and Pap Test Results.

Introduction A causal link between infection with a high-risk strain of human papilloma virus (hrHPV) and the development of cervical squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is well established. However, a small number of SCCs are hrHPV-negative by either HPV co-DNA testing and/or HPV-in situ hybridization (HPV-ISH) at the time of diagnosis. These apparently hrHPV-negative lesions are poorly understood, specifically whether hrHPV-positive precursor lesions exist, which would be detected through hrHPV-based screening. Methods A search of the pathology archives at the Johns Hopkins Hospital identified women with a diagnosis of hrHPV-negative cervical SCC on surgical specimen. All prior pathologies, including cervical cytology and surgical pathology specimens, and associated hrHPV DNA test results, p16 immunohistochemistry, and HPV-ISH were reviewed. Results A total of 25 women were identified having a surgical specimen diagnosed as SCC with either negative or equivocal HPV-ISH. Fifteen had a Pap test in the 6 months preceding a diagnosis of SCC, with cytology diagnoses as follows: high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion n = 14/15; atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion n = 1/15. hrHPV co-testing was performed for 5 of these 15 women and was negative in 2/5 cases. Cervical biopsy was performed for 24 women. HPV-ISH testing, performed on 14 of the biopsy specimens, was negative for 11/14 patients. Of 15 specimens stained for p16, 14 were positive. Conclusion A subset of patients exist in whom hrHPV is not detectable at or near the time of progression to SCC. Additional research is necessary to further describe this population and determine whether maintaining cytological screening would provide benefit.
A Critical Assessment of Published Tests for Elementary School Mathematics.

JL his paper is intended as an aid to the elementary school mathematics teacher who uses published tests for evaluating student achievement in elementary school mathematics. ("Published tests" in this paper refers to standardized tests and to published criterion-referenced tests.) Often teachers must administer to their students tests that do not directly assess the teacher's objectives. The almost certain outcome of such a procedure is that average student achievement is revealed to be unexpectedly low. Such an outcome may result in pressure to modify the instructional objectives so that instruction becomes consistent with the behaviors assessed by the achievement tests. Over a period of years this process could lead to a situation where mathematics course objectives are in effect determined by test content. Stated tritely perhaps, but accurately, we could end up "with the cart before the horse." This writer believes that when published tests are used to assess student achievement, the teacher should be given a choice of the test to be used. However, if teachers are to be able to make good choices then they must become better acquainted with appropriate uses of published tests, appropr ate interpretations of test data, and the availability of different kinds of tests.
Mary Wollstonecraft’s Female Imbeciles

ABSTRACTMary Wollstonecraft’s invectives against women in A Vindication of the Rights of Woman, ostensibly an argument for improved female education, have long troubled readers. Why does Wollstonec...
Solutions for Ono-Dimensional Structural Lattices

Advantages of using closed form solutions to difference equations as tool for structural analysis; in solving directly, difference equations are obtained by substituting standard force joint deformation relations into general joint equilibrium equations, complete solutions are obtained for regular parallel chord Vierendeel and triangulated trusses with n panels.
Using a “Teaching Tolerance” Learning Plan in the Political Science Classroom

Using the concept of racial capitalism, as well as several articles focusing on racism and the global environmental crisis both spurred by capitalism, I attempt to have students link materials from an introductory political science class on race and ethnicity politics via a “Teaching Tolerance” Learning Plan. “Teaching Tolerance” is a project of the Southern Poverty Law Center dedicated to critical race consciousness in K-12 classroom, but I make use of the learning plan in the university classroom as a means of increasing racial consciousness amongst university students and teaching them how to connect sociopolitical racial histories to the concept of racial capitalism.
Adding an imaging score in the armamentarium: Pediatric ASPECTS for outcome prediction.

At least one-third of newborns with symptomatic neonatal arterial ischemic stroke (SNAIS) develop cerebral palsy or impaired development. The clinical factors associated with poor outcomes after SNAIS are poorly characterized. Given the associated large lifelong burden, outcome prediction in the setting of SNAIS is important when considering whom to target with early intervention. Previous research identified predictive variables such as infarct topography and infarct volume, but these are time-consuming to calculate for a practicing physician. There is a need for simple, reliable, quantitative scoring systems to predict outcomes after SNAIS so that resources can be allocated effectively. Current literature suggests that early intervention after SNAIS might steer corticospinal tract development toward a normal pattern, providing a unique opportunity to influence outcome.1
Study of the beta-delayed alpha-particle emission of 16 N

The beta-delayed alpha-particle emission of $^{16}\mathrm{N}$ has been studied, with $^{16}\mathrm{N}$ nuclei produced using 80 MeV/nucleon $^{18}\mathrm{O}$ beams on $^{9}\mathrm{Be}$ targets. The $^{16}\mathrm{N}$ secondary nuclei were mass analyzed and separated from the reaction products using the Michigan State University A1200 isotope separator. A detector array, including four thin surface barrier detectors, a p-i-n diode, a Ge gamma-ray detector, and a two-dimensional position sensitive parallel plate avalanche counter, was used for implantation and study of the separated nuclei. A beta-decay branching ratio of (1.3\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.3)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}5}$ to the ${1}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ state at 9.6 MeV and a centroid of 2.35\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.05 MeV for the beta-delayed alpha-particle emission were measured. These results are essential for the analysis of a high sensitivity measurement at Yale University of the low-energy beta-delayed alpha-particle emission of $^{16}\mathrm{N}$, and for understanding the $^{12}\mathrm{C}$(\ensuremath{\alpha},\ensuremath{\gamma}${)}^{16}$O reaction in the helium burning process in massive stars.
The relationship ageing of the population and saving in an unemployment context: Empirical evidence using an autoregressive distributed lag bounds testing approach

In this article, we emphasised that ageing population does not systematically depress savings by drawing attention to the factors that may distort that prediction of the life‐cycle hypothesis (LCH). To demonstrate it, we used two indicators for ageing: the total and aged dependency ratios and we looked at the economic context influence on national saving evolution through considering the labour market imbalance interference. By applying the autoregressive distributed lag approach, with Tunisian data during 1970–2018, a dynamic long‐run relationship between ageing and national saving is found, although it seemed to be sensitive to the used ageing indicator and the economic context. Indeed, the LCH is proved only by the total dependence ratio whereas the aged dependence ratio puts a significant long‐run upward pressure on saving. Further, in a context of unemployment without any benefit scheme, the LCH prediction cannot be endorsed by the two indicators. Hence, the social and economic conditions limit the LCH scope, bearing out that elderly not depress systematically savings. Therefore, to sustain saving major economic and financial reforms are needed, as to postpone the retirement age, to move from pay‐as‐you‐go system towards funded pension system, to promote life insurance and to diversify the long‐run savings products.
Hazy: Making it Easier to Build and Maintain Big-data Analytics: Racing to unleash the full potential of big data with the latest statistical and machine-learning techniques.

The rise of big data presents both big opportunities and big challenges in domains ranging from enterprises to sciences. The opportunities include better-informed business decisions, more efficient supply-chain management and resource allocation, more effective targeting of products and advertisements, better ways to "organize the world’s information," faster turnaround of scientific discoveries, etc.
Heart rate variability as a biomarker for anorexia nervosa: A review.

OBJECTIVE Anorexia nervosa (AN) typically begins in early adolescence and other than weight status has few reliable biomarkers. Early diagnosis is a critical prognostic factor, but this can be clinically challenging. Heart rate variability (HRV), the beat-by-beat variance in heart rate (HR), may provide a unique assessment for the presence of AN because it has clinical utility as a biomarker of cardiac autonomic control in various populations (e.g., athletes, the aged, those with cardiovascular diseases, etc.). We present a review of the literature examining HRV in those with AN. METHOD Relevant publications were selected from PubMed using the search terms 'anorexia nervosa AND (HR OR HRV)'. Twenty papers were selected and reviewed. RESULTS The majority of studies suggest that those with AN have markedly and consistently elevated HRV compared to controls, even greater than among young athletes. However, no studies have explored HRV as a biomarker for AN. DISCUSSION Future studies on HRV should elucidate its role as a diagnostic biomarker for AN as well as its responsiveness with serial measurement to track response rates and predict relapse.
Be Strong and of Good Courage: How Israel’s Most Important Leaders Shaped Its Destiny: by Dennis Ross and David Makovsky. New York: Public Affairs, 2019. 360 pp., index, $30.00 hardcover.

This book is about decision-making by four of Israel’s Prime Ministers: David Ben-Gurion, Menahem Begin, Yitzhak Rabin and Ariel (Arik) Sharon. In each case, the authors, Dennis Ross, a seasoned an...
A Bleeding Eye in a Pediatric Case of Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis

Intro Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is an ANCA positive vasculitis affecting small and medium blood vessels. GPA can present during any age, most commonly occurring in older adults. It is well known to cause granulomatous inflammation in any organ system, however, a pediatric patient with GPA having ophthalmological symptoms as the initial complaint has never been reported. Our case is aimed to aid physicians in recognizing pediatric patients with GPA who may present with only bleeding eyes. Case A 15 year old caucasian male presented …
A study of microstructure-driven strain localizations in two-phase polycrystalline HCP/BCC composites using a multi-scale model

Abstract In this work, we present a 3D microstructure-based, full-field crystal plasticity finite element (CPFE) model using a thermally activated dislocation-density based constitutive description and apply it to study the deformation of a two-phase hexagonal close packed (HCP)-body center cubic (BCC) Zr/Nb composite. The microstructure models were created using a synthetic grain structure builder (DREAM.3D) and a meshing toolset for the 3D network of grains, grain boundaries, and bimetal interfaces. The crystal orientations, grain shapes, and grain sizes for each phase were initialized based on the measured data. With this novel technique, we aspire to couple the evolution of microstructural heterogeneities with the evolution of spatially resolved mechanical fields during the deformation of complex composites. Here, we apply it to understand the role that microstructure plays in the development of the local concentrations in strain and strain rate that can trigger plastic instabilities, such as shear banding. Our chief findings are that 1) local areas of relatively high (and relatively very low) strain concentration occur at triple junctions or quadruple points and then connect via straining to create a banded configuration that extends across the polycrystalline layer, 2) this event starts in the Zr phase and not in the Nb phase, and 3) the triggering hot spots in strain occur at junctions that join grains with very dissimilar reorientation propensities and vice versa for cold spots. In order to determine how such influential localizations can be prevented during processing via application of intermediate annealing treatments, we used the model to also explore the effects of annealing-induced changes in accumulated dislocation density, crystallographic texture and grain shape on the development of strain localizations during subsequent deformation. We found that while it is difficult to avoid strain localizations at grain junctions, when provided a microstructure containing a few large grains spanning the thickness, elongated grain shapes, and reduced dislocation density, the linkage of hot spots in the form of a band can be postponed. At the end we show that when an additional softening mechanism is introduced, these localized strain concentration areas can lead to shear bands.
Previous weight loss as a predictor of weight loss outcomes after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding

Weight loss after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) can be influenced by a variety of factors. The objective of this study is to investigate whether the maximum amount of previous weight loss with diet and exercise, prior to evaluation for bariatric surgery, is predictive of postoperative weight loss success among primary LAGB patients. A retrospective cohort study was designed from a prospectively collected database at a single institution. Inclusion criteria consisted of age ≥18 years, initial body mass index (BMI) ≥35 kg/m2, intake information on the maximum weight loss at any time prior to referral to our bariatric practice, and at least 2 years of postoperative follow-up. Patients with prior bariatric surgery were excluded. Outcomes included mean % excess weight loss (EWL), percent that achieved weight loss success (%EWL ≥ 40), and percent with suboptimal weight loss (%EWL 50 lb) for analysis. In adjusted multivariate analyses, patients with >50 lb of maximum previous weight loss had a significantly higher mean %EWL, (p < 0.0001) and %BMIL (p < 0.0001), were more likely to reach weight loss success (≥40 % EWL, p = 0.047), and were less likely to experience suboptimal weight loss (<20 % EWL, p = 0.027) at 2 years postoperatively. Previous weight loss appears to be a significant predictor of weight loss after LAGB. With multiple options for weight loss surgery, this study helps elucidate which patients may be more likely to achieve greater weight loss with the LAGB, allowing clinicians to appropriately counsel patients preoperatively.
CLINICAL CONFERENCE: The Role of Adrenal Steroids in the Treatment of Tuberculosis

Dr. Margaret H. D. Smith: We have been using adrenal steroids in the treatment of tuberculosis in children. We have a relatively small number of cases, not enough to set up a controlled, randomized, case study. We decided a couple of years ago, when we embarked on this study, to treat consecutive cases for certain indications, and see where we got, hoping to find out in the first place whether steroids seemed to do good or whether they seemed to do harm; in the second place, if they did seem to do good, to try and find out what sort of treatment dosage, what treatment schedule, and so forth, might be indicated. We thought then that, if we actually ended up with some sort of positive experience and data, that perhaps we might, under other circumstances, be able to do a properly controlled study. Our observations on the use of steroids in the treatment of tuberculosis have really been patterned on the experience of various European investigators, who started us on our way. I am not going to say very much about the use of steroids in tuberculous meningitis because that is an indication for the use of steroids which is fairly generally accepted. I think that the data which have been gathered in Italy, in South Africa, and in many other parts of the world, as well as in the few cases that we have had occasion to treat here, make one realize that steroids are a very valuable adjunct in the treatment of tuberculous meningitis.
Who Will Treat Medicaid and Uninsured Patients? Retired Providers Can Help

By many accounts, the three key measures of a health care system are access, quality, and cost. As for access, the focus of policy makers has been almost exclusively on the coverage of individuals under public and private health plans. This simplistic view of access equating with insurance coverage overlooks the importance of such non-financial barriers to health care as the lack of transportation, translation services, child care, convenient hours, accessible facilities, and health literacy, which prevent many individuals from obtaining timely and effective health care.1 Most importantly, focusing solely on health insurance ignores the crucial question of whether there are adequate numbers of physicians and other health care providers who are ready, willing, and able to provide the necessary care. Unfortunately, the current shortage of available providers is likely to increase significantly over the next decade, regardless of the fate of the health reform legislation enacted in 2010.
The virtual library and digital image programs

During the past ten years, the Dahlgren Memorial Library at the Georgetown University Medical Center has designed and developed several educational software programs. The programs integrate images, text, sound and even simulation to facilitate learning and comprehension. The programs were created jointly by the library and the School of Medicine with the Office of Medical Informatics. They operate on Macintosh computers, and where possible, they were developed with similar format to facilitate use. The programs include five educational projects in varying medical disciplines and a problem-based learning series of case studies. The programs demonstrate use of different technological and imaging capabilities.
Theoretical development of m-shell spectroscopy for Z-pinch plasma diagnostics

Tungsten wire explosions are being intensively studied at Sandia National Laboratories. Any available x-ray spectral data accumulated in Z experiments with appropriate theoretical modeling can lead to better understanding of plasma evolution during a wire explosion. The present work focuses on the theoretical development of M-shell spectroscopy of W ions in the spectral range from 4 up to 8 A. The majority of line emissions in this spectral region is composed of 31 → 41′, 51″ transitions. Atomic data were calculated using Cowan and MBPT codes for all isoelectronic sequences contributing into this spectral range. The non-LTE kinetic model was developed based on these atomic data. The sensitivity of this model to the number of included ions, configurations and levels, the electron density, ionization balance, and electron distribution function is discussed. The complete modeling of this spectrum allows a detailed diagnostic of a hotter plasma core in z-pinch experiments involving heavy ions.
Elevation of Serum Protein-Bound Carbohydrates and Haptoglobin in Schizophrenia

The mean concentration of each of the serum protein-bound carbohydrates (hexose, hexosamine, fucose, and sialic acid) was significantly elevated in a group of 60 male schizophrenic patients. The total serum protein was elevated, ceruloplasmin was normal, and C-reactive protein was absent. Serum haptoglobin was significantly elevated. The distribution of haptoglobin types was normal. Haptoglobin concentration variation was significantly correlated with each of the carbohydrates and, to a lesser degree, with ceruloplasmin. In a group of 13 patients with normal erythrocyte sedimentation rate, the fibrinogen and haptoglobin concentrations were significantly elevated. There was no correlation between haptoglobin and fibrinogen concentrations in this group.
A quasi-similarity analysis of the turbulent boundary layer on a flat plate

The partial differential equation of the boundary layer on a flat plate are simplified by using the universal variables for turbulent flow. For laminar flow this gives boundary layer having a finite thickness and a friction coefficient differing by a few percent from the Blasius value. For a turbulent flow a differential equation for the velocity distribution is obtained with a parameter which varies slowly with the streamwise coordinate. The numerical value of this parameter is determined as an eigenvalue of the differential equations giving a velocity profile which evolves as the boundary layer thickens. Numerical calculations using a simple eddy viscosity model gave results in very good agreement with experiment.
Polymer Nanoparticle Superlattices for Organic Photovoltaic Applications

In this Perspective, we discuss the possibility of constructing binary nanoparticle superlattices for organic photovoltaic applications and some of the interesting new photophysics emerging from preliminary studies. We summarize recent advances in nanoparticle preparation and photophysical characterization and some of the very interesting observed departures from thin-film photoluminescence dynamics. We conclude by discussing some of the challenges ahead and the possibility of new emergent physics in the assembly of polymer nanoparticles into functional devices.
Bis-thallium(I) porphyrin complexes

Abstract Treatment of octaethylporphyrin ( 1 ) or tetraphenylporphyrin ( 2 ) with more than two equiv of thallium(I) ethoxide gives the corresponding stable bis[thallium(I)] porphyrin complexes ( 5 ) and ( 6 ), respectively; these thallium(I) porphyrins are shown to have very different chemical and spectroscopic properties than do the corresponding thallium(III) porphyrin complexes.
Improving delivery reliability by a new due-date setting rule

We study the dynamic due-date setting problem where the objective is to improve delivery performance. Since the problem is NP-hard, we propose a simple, new, general, heuristic due-date setting procedure called the SL rule. For the classical M/M/1 queuing model, we analytically determine the optimum parameter for the proposed rule to achieve best due-date performance. We then show that the optimized SL rule outperforms the work-content-based TWK rule in terms of fraction tardy, mean tardiness, and mean earliness. Additional numerical and simulation analysis for a range of conditions, covering different shop workload levels and priority regimes, confirms that the proposed rule produces best due-date performance, compared to the work-content-based rule, under most of the conditions studied.
Aircraft noise-abatement and mitigation strategies

Abstract This paper compares and contrasts aviation noise policies and noise-abatement measures currently in effect around the world. With local, national, and regional governments attempting to refine and update their policies towards aircraft and airport noise, this detailed review provides a contextual background to complement aviation noise policy research.
In Memoriam: Dr H. Fred Clark (1937–2012)

Dr H. Fred Clark, a colleague and friend, passed away on April 28, 2012. Drs Frederick Murphy, Stanley Plotkin, and Paul Offit, who knew Fred at different stages of his career, recall his life.
An AMI study of the cope rearrangements of bullvalene, barbaralane, semibullvalene, and derivatives of semibullvalene

Abstract AMI calculations are reported for the Cope rearrangements of [3,3,2,0 2,8 ] tricyclodeca-3,7,9-triene (bullvalene; 6), (3,3,1,0 2,8 ] tricyclonona-3,7-diene (barbaralane; 7), [3,3,0,0 2,8 ] tricyclonona-3,7-diene (semibullvalene; 8), and 12 derivatives of 8. All the reactions were predicted to take place via typical aromatic pericyclic transition states, unlike chair Cope rearrangements but like the boat rearrangement of 1,5-hexadiene. A second biradicaloid transition state of higher energy was found for 6 and 8. CN or F in 8 at C 2 , C 4 , C 6 , or C 8 is predicted to accelerate the reaction.
Alternative evidence for nonnegativity

Abstract Sufficient conditions for definiteness of a real polynomial other than the positivstellensatz are defined and illustrated by example.
Pharmacy access to emergency hormonal contraception in Jacksonville, FL: a secret shopper survey

Abstract Objective Emergency hormonal contraception (EC) has the potential to reduce the number of unintended pregnancies and induced abortions, but many barriers to more prevalent usage exist. We evaluated one aspect of access — pharmacy availability of levonorgestrel EC (Plan B) or alternatives — in Jacksonville, FL. Method Female “secret shoppers” presented in person and by telephone to pharmacies in Jacksonville, FL, and inquired if Plan B would be available if they were to return with a prescription. Availability of the medication, as well as offers of EC alternatives or alternate methods of obtaining EC, was noted. Furthermore, pharmacist and pharmacy staff knowledge regarding appropriate use of the product was assessed. Results Of 54 pharmacies visited by secret shoppers, 21 (39%) had Plan B in stock and were willing to dispense it. Sixteen pharmacies (29%) could order it and have it available within 24 h, or knew of nearby pharmacies that stocked the medication. Neither Plan B nor other EC options were offered by 17 pharmacies (31%). One hundred thirty-three pharmacies, including those that were visited in person, were contacted by telephone. Forty-two (32%) of these had Plan B in stock. Another 22 pharmacies (17%) offered to order Plan B for availability within 24 h or less. Furthermore, 11 pharmacies suggested other stores that were more likely to carry it. Of 40 pharmacy staff members asked how long following unprotected intercourse a patient had to take the product, 20 (50%) correctly stated 72 h. Conclusion Plan B was not in stock in a majority of pharmacies within this large city. Availability was increased by offers to order the medication or by suggestions to seek the prescription at nearby pharmacies. Many pharmacists and their staff were unfamiliar with the medication and its correct usage.
Dynamic Gravimetry in Studying The Adsorption of Proteins Onto Metal Surfaces: Analysis and Limitations

The paper describes the physical and mathematical fundamentals of dynamic gravimetry in liquid phase. First, a relation is developed to calculate the apparent weight of a vertical thin cylinder partially immersed Into a liquid. It emphasizes the magnitude of buoyancy forces and surface-tension forces (which act upon fine threads used to suspend a solid object completely immersed into a liquid). Next, the basic relation of dynamic gravimetry is derived to estimate the absolute mass of adsorbed material onto the surface of a submerged solid object. This relation encompasses, apart from the term related to the measured output signal of the balance, three correction terms which originate from the surface tension effects, buoyancy effect of the submerged object, and buoyancy effect due to the adsorbed material.The following sections address adsorption at the air-liquid interface as well as the molecular diffusion process (both being intermingled with concentration and density gradients in the system). Special attention is given to the errors connected with a series of relaxation processes in which the external menisci, the plate-beam system, and the surface tension are involved once their equilibrium conditions are disturbed. The time constants of these relaxation processes can not be exactly predicted. The paper concludes with an experimental illustration of dynamic gravimetry, with the adsorption of beta-lactoglobulin onto stainless steel plates. The validity of predictions based upon the physico-mathematical fundamentals is reconciled with the analytical and technical aspects and difficulties specific to dynamic gravimetry.
PERTURBATION THEORY OF MANY-BOSON SYSTEMS

A noncanonical transformation of the boson creation and annihilation operators is performed in order to obtain a Hamiltonian which can be treated by the standard methods of field-theoretic perturbation theory. The standard results of Belyaev (with a slight modification) are rederived by this technique. (auth)
Controlling interruptions: awareness displays and social motivation for coordination

Spontaneous communication is common in the workplace but can be disruptive. Such communication usually benefits the initiator more than the target of the disruption. Previous research has indicated that awareness displays showing the workload of a target can reduce the harm interruptions inflict, but can increase the cognitive load on interrupters. This paper describes an experiment testing whether team membership influences interrupters' motivation to use awareness displays and whether the informational-intensity of a display influences its utility and cost. Results indicate interrupters use awareness displays to time communication only when they and their partners are rewarded as a team and that this timing improves the target's performance on a continuous attention task. Eye-tracking data shows that monitoring an information-rich display imposes a substantial attentional cost on the interrupters, and that an abstract display provides similar benefit with less distraction.
Characterization of phases formed between U–Pu–Mo fuels and Fe–12Cr cladding

Abstract Exposure to high temperatures and irradiation can lead to interaction between fuel and cladding constituents, inter-diffusion, and formation of brittle or low-melting phases. Therefore, understanding of fuel-cladding interaction (FCCI) is critical for evaluation of fuel performance in a reactor environment. In this contribution, phases formed between U–22Pu–4Mo and U–25Pu–15Mo (in wt%) fuel alloys and Fe–12Cr cladding were characterized using scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM) techniques. Phases formed within FCCI layers in both alloys were identified by implementing selective area diffraction pattern analysis as Cr 0.3 Mo 0.7 (Im-3m), Fe 2 U (Fd-3m), UCrFe (Fd-3m), and Fe 2 Pu (Fd-3m). Phases formed at the end of the FCCI layer in the U–22Pu–4Mo alloy included UCrFe (Fd-3m), Fe 2 U (Fd-3m), and Cr 2 FeO 4 (Fd-3m) while in the U–25Pu–15Mo alloy the phases were consistent with Cr 0.49 Fe 0.51 (P4 2 /mnm), Cr 0.8 Fe 0.2 (Im-3m), and UCrFe (Fd-3m).
Profile Analysis of Variance as a Tool for Analyzing Correlated Responses in Experimental Ecology

In ecological studies experiments are often designed in which the variables to be compared are not statistically independent. Examples include repeated measures of the same response by the same individual at different times, measurement of several traits on the same individual, and measurements taken from two or more types of organisms present together in the same experimental unit (e.g.) plot, cage, pond, etc.). This type of design violates several assumptions of the standard analysis of variance. These assumptions are examined and profile analysis, a modification of the standard analysis of variance which does not depend upon these assumptions, is presented. Simple instructions for performing profile analysis of variance using two common statistical packages for mainframe computers are provided in an appendix.
Comparison of enantioselective reductions using bead and monolith ‘disk’ polymer formulations of CBS catalysts

Two polymer-supported versions of the Corey, Bakshi, and Shibata (CBS) catalyst were prepared and examined. Polymeric beads, with the auxiliary bound in pendant and crosslinked fashion, were prepared utilizing an improved procedure based upon earlier work. Optimization of a procedure for ketone reduction gives results that match those in solution. Attempted reuse gave mixed results. For comparison purposes, CBS functionalized monoliths were formed and tested but performed poorly.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist administration suppresses both water and saline intake in rats.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) plays an important role in energy homeostasis. Injections of GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists suppress food intake, and endogenous GLP-1 is released when nutrients enter the gut. There is also growing evidence that the GLP-1 system is involved in the regulation of body fluid homeostasis. GLP-1R agonists suppress water intake independent of their effects on food intake. It is unknown, however, whether this suppressive effect of GLP-1R agonists extends to saline intake. Accordingly, we tested the effect of the GLP-1R agonists liraglutide (0.05 μg) and exendin-4 (0.05 μg) on water and saline intake, as stimulated either by angiotensin II (AngII) or by water deprivation with partial rehydration (WD-PR). Each agonist suppressed AngII-induced water intake; however, only exendin-4 suppressed saline intake. WD-PR-induced water and saline intakes were both attenuated by each agonist. Analysis of drinking microstructure after WD-PR found a reliable effect of the agonists on burst number. Furthermore, exendin-4 conditioned a robust taste avoidance to saccharine; however, there was no similar effect of liraglutide. To evaluate the relevance of the conditioned taste avoidance, we tested whether inducing visceral malaise by injection of lithium chloride (LiCl) suppressed fluid intake. Injection of LiCl did not suppress water or saline intakes. Overall, these results indicate that the fluid intake suppression by GLP-1R activation is not selective to water intake, is a function of post-ingestive feedback, and is not secondary to visceral malaise.
Transfer RNA in reticulocyte maturation

The disappearance of tRNA during the maturation of rabbit reticulocytes under the stress of phenylhydrazine-induced hemolysis was studied. The tRNA content of reticulocytes and of erythrocytes derived from them was compared. The results show that tRNA persists longer after reticulocyte maturation than ribosomes and than the ability to incorporate amino acids into protein. Considerable uniformity of tRNA degradation was noted with about 15% of the tRNA for most amino acids remaining after reticulocyte maturation. The half-life of tRNA in the maturing cells is estimated to be 50--60 h. There is little tRNA lacking the 3'-terminal pCpCpA moiety in cells derived from reticulocytes.