cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Defining, Designing, and Evaluating Civic Values in Human Computationand Collective Action Systems

Collective action is often described in terms of the relationships, learning, principled processes, and community capacities it fosters. Despite this, human computation and collective action systems are often designed and evaluated with system outputs in mind: the quality of answers, the number of votes, the accuracy of content created. In this proposal, we review literature on the design values of "citizen-x” systems, put forward a series of models for describing the civic values in “citizen-x," and classify systems by those models. We conclude by urging greater attentiveness to civic values when designing and evaluating human computation and collective action systems.
Paraneoplastic pemphigus. A distinct autoimmune vesiculobullous disorder associated with neoplasia.

Abstract A vesiculobullous disease termed paraneoplastic pemphigus with distinct autoantibodies was newly described in 1990. All reported cases have occurred in patients with a history of neoplasia, including lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, poorly differentiated sarcoma, and benign thymoma. As in pemphigus vulgaris, intraepithelial clefts with acantholysis are noted hisopathologically, and intercellular binding of immunoreactants is seen with direct immunofluorescence studies of mucous membrane and skin biopsies. However, immunoreactants may also be found along the basement membrane zone in paraneoplastic pemphigus. Indirect immunofluorescence using rat bladder epithelium as substrate shows an intercellular pattern that appears to be highly specific for paraneoplastic pemphigus. We report a patient with non-Hodgkins lymphoma of 8 years duration who developed severe erosive stomatitis and lichenoid dermatitis after receiving chemotherapy for a relapse of lymphoma. Her case illustrates the typical features of the disorder described as paraneoplastic pemphigus. Neoplasia-associated pemphigus may be a more precise term for this disorder because the course of the blistering eruption does not always parallel the course of the underlying cancer. The clinical features, histopathologic findings, and immunofluorescence findings of this unique syndrome are reviewed.
A Study of Radar Echo Clusters over Southeastern Montana

Data recorded by the Skywater radar during the Cooperative Convective Precipitation Experiment were used to produce echo cluster statistics. The average echo cluster is initiated in the mid-afternoon (15:18 MDT) and continues for 1.8 hours. It has a maximum reflectivity of 45.4 dBz, and produces 296 km^2*mm of rainfall. The storm moves from the west to east at a speed of 12.5 m/s. Analysis revealed a bimodal distribution of maximum echo heights with the low mode at 6.9 km and the upper mode at 9.4 km. Comparison of predictors for radar estimated rainfall confirmed the value of the Area-Time-lntegral (ATI). Echo statistics were in good agreement with those obtained from a different project in North Dakota for the same year, with greater differences obtained for statistics from projects in more humid climates. The importance of year-to-year variability is affirmed.
Organ Transplantation: Meanings and Realities

Organ Transplantation: Meanings and Realities. Stuart J. Youngner. Renee C. Fox. and Laurence J. O'Connell. eds. Madison: University of Wisconsin Press, 1995.290 pp.
Interaction potentials from arbitrary multi-particle trajectory data

Understanding the complex physics of particle-based systems at the nanoscale and mesoscale increasingly relies on simulation methods, empowered by exponential advances in computing speed. A major impediment to progress lies in reliably obtaining the interaction potential functions that control system behavior – which are key inputs for any simulation approach – and which are often difficult or impossible to obtain directly using traditional experimental methods. Here, we present a straightforward methodology for generating pair potential functions from large multi-particle trajectory datasets, with no operational constraints regarding their state of equilibration, degree of damping or presence of hydrodynamic interactions. Using simulated datasets, we demonstrate that the method is highly robust against trajectory perturbations from Brownian motion and common errors introduced by particle tracking algorithms. Given the recent rapid pace of advancement in high-speed and three-dimensional microscopy and associated particle tracking algorithms, we anticipate a near future experimental regime where easily collected high-dimensional trajectory sets can be rapidly converted to the detailed interaction and hydrodynamic force fields required to replicate the system's physics in simulation.
Role of HGF/MET axis in resistance of lung cancer to contemporary management

Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer related mortality with over 1 million cancer deaths worldwide. Numerous therapies have been developed for the treatment of lung cancer including radiation, cytotoxic chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Histology, stage of presentation and molecular aberrations are main determinants of prognosis and treatment strategy. Despite the advances that have been made, overall prognosis for lung cancer patients remains dismal. Chemotherapy and/or targeted therapy yield objective response rates of about 35% to 60% in advanced stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Even with good initial responses, median overall survival of is limited to about 12 months. This reflects that current therapies are not universally effective and resistance develops quickly. Multiple mechanisms of resistance have been proposed and the MET/HGF axis is a potential key contributor. The proto-oncogene MET (mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor gene) and its ligand hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) interact and activate downstream signaling via the mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK/ MAPK) pathway and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K/AKT) pathways that regulate gene expression that promotes carcinogenesis. Aberrant MET/HGF signaling promotes emergence of an oncogenic phenotype by promoting cellular proliferation, survival, migration, invasion and angiogenesis. The MET/ HGF axis has been implicated in various tumor types including lung cancers and is associated with adverse clinicopathological profile and poor outcomes. The MET/HGF axis plays a major role in development of radioresistance and chemoresistance to platinums, taxanes, camtothecins and anthracyclines by inhibiting apoptosis via activation of PI3K-AKT pathway. DNA damage from these agents induces MET and/or HGF expression. Another resistance mechanism is inhibition of chemoradiation induced translocation of apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) thereby preventing apoptosis. Furthermore, this MET/HGF axis interacts with other oncogenic signaling pathways such as the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway and the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) pathway. This functional cross-talk forms the basis for the role of MET/HGF axis in resistance against anti-EGFR and anti-VEGF targeted therapies. MET and/or HGF overexpression from gene amplification and activation are mechanisms of resistance to cetuximab and EGFR-TKIs. VEGF inhibition promotes hypoxia induced transcriptional activation of MET proto-oncogene that promotes angiogenesis and confers resistance to anti-angiogenic therapy. An extensive understanding of these resistance mechanisms is essential to design combinations with enhanced cytotoxic effects. Lung cancer treatment is challenging. Current therapies have limited efficacy due to primary and acquired resistance. The MET/HGF axis plays a key role in development of this resistance. Combining MET/HGF inhibitors with chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapy holds promise for improving outcomes.
Treatment of Systolic and Diastolic Heart Failure in the Elderly

Underlying causes, risk factors, and precipitating causes of heart failure (HF) should be treated. Drugs known to precipitate or aggravate HF should be stopped. Patients with HF and an abnormal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (systolic heart failure) or normal LVEF (diastolic HF) should be treated with diuretics if fluid retention is present; with an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor or an angiotensin receptor blocker if the patient cannot tolerate an ACE inhibitor because of cough, angioneurotic edema, rash, or altered taste sensation; and with a beta blocker unless contraindicated. If severe systolic HF persists, an aldosterone antagonist should be added. If HF persists, isosorbide dinitrate plus hydralazine should be added. Calcium channel blockers should be avoided if systolic HF is present. Digoxin should be avoided in men and women with diastolic HF if sinus rhythm is present and in women with systolic HF. Digoxin should be given to men with systolic HF if symptoms persist, but the serum digoxin level should be maintained between 0.5 and 0.8 ng/mL. A multidisciplinary approach should be used with nurse monitoring of the condition. In a home-bound patient, a homemaker should be hired.
Spatial patterns from EOF analysis of soil moisture at a large scale and their dependence on soil, land-use, and topographic properties

We hypothesize that the spatial and temporal variation in large-scale soil moisture patterns can be described by a small number of spatial structures that are related to soil texture, land use, and topography. To test this hypothesis, an empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis is conducted using data from the 1997 Southern Great Plains field campaign. When considering the spatial soil moisture anomalies, one spatial structure (EOF) is identified that explains 61% of the variance, and three such structures explain 87% of the variance. The primary EOF is most highly correlated with the percent sand in the soil among the regional characteristics considered, but the correlation with percent clay is largest if only dry days are analyzed. When considering the temporal anomalies, one EOF explains 50% of the variance. This EOF is still most closely related to the percent sand, but the percent clay is unimportant. Characteristics related to land use and topography are less correlated with the spatial and temporal variation of soil moisture in the range of scales considered.
Time-slot interchange of 40 Gbits/s variable length optical packets using conversion–dispersion-based tunable delays

We demonstrate tunable time-slot interchange of 40 Gbits/s optical data packets using a conversion-dispersion-based tunable optical delay element. Odd and even data packets are extracted from an input signal, delayed relative to one another in a highly dispersive medium, and then multiplexed back together. Tunability is demonstrated by operating with two different packet lengths, 182 and 288 bits/packet, and a bit error rate of <10−9 is achieved.
Dressing Shrinkages of Bronze Turkeys

Abstract DRESSING percentages of food animals are of considerable economic importance to the producers, distributors, and consumers of them. This paper is a compilation of original data relating to the determination of weight losses sustained by turkeys during their preparation for cooking. The data were obtained from more than twelve hundred birds of the Bronze variety. The birds were raised and prepared for market on the U. S. Range Livestock Experiment Station at Miles City, Montana, during the years of 1929, 1930, 1931 and 1932. The turkeys used in this study were reared on limited range with access to feed at all times from hatching to marketing. The young birds were slaughtered, in the great majority of cases, between the ages of 26 and 32 weeks, during November and December. A few were slaughtered at 22 to 26 weeks of age, during November and December. A few were held as long . . .
Executive Insights: The Global Network Communications Agency:

Abstract Cross-ownership of brand-name agencies, spin-offs of functional areas, and incorporation of nontraditional marketing communications services are the structural foundations of the global network communications agency. Global capabilities are the new criteria for managing agency-client partnerships. In response, agencies differentiate themselves, increase input, and assure clients of uniform decision-making processes across their network by using “branded” decision tools and agency-client intranets. The core competencies expected from the global network communications agency include brand-planning skills, understanding of relevant consumers, decision aids that facilitate decision processes, information systems that maximize experiences and communications, and an ability to bridge cultures. These changes highlight the need to improve human resources management and the competitive appeal of service portfolios, as well as institutionalized knowledge sharing within networks.
A numerical solution of a model for a superconductor field problem

A model of a magnetic field problem occurring in connection with Josephson junction devices is derived, and numerical solutions are obtained. The model is of mathematical interest, because the magnetic vector potential satisfies inhomogeneous Helmholtz equations in part of the region, i.e., the superconductors, and the Laplace equation elsewhere. Moreover, the inhomogeneities are the gauge constants for the potential, which are different for each superconductor, and their magnitudes are proportional to the currents flowing in the superconductors. These constants are directly related to the self and mutual inductances of the superconducting elements in the device. The numerical solution is obtained by the iterative use of a fast Poisson solver. Chebyshev acceleration is used to reduce the number of iterations required to obtain a solution. A typical problem involves solving 100,000 simultaneous equations, which the algorithm used with this model does in 20 iterations, requiring three minutes of CPU time on an IBM YM/370/168. Excellent agreement is obtained between calculated and observed values for the inductances.
Flame retardants and organochlorine pollutants in bald eagle plasma from the Great Lakes region

We report measurements of polybrominated diphenyl ethers and of emerging flame retardants in the plasma of nestling bald eagles sampled from early May to late June of 2005. Concentrations of total PBDEs ranged from 0.35 ng g(-1) ww to 29.3 ng g(-1) ww (average=5.7+/-1.9 ng g(-1) ww). The most abundant congeners were BDE-47, BDE-99, and BDE-100. The fully brominated congener, BDE-209, was detected in approximately one third of the samples at an average concentration of 1.2+/-0.72 ng g(-1) ww. Several emerging flame retardants, such as pentabromoethylbenzene (PBEB), hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs), and Dechlorane Plus (DP), were detected in these samples. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides were also detected at levels close to those previously published. A statistically significant relationship was found between total PBDE concentrations and total PCB and p,p'-DDE concentrations, suggesting that these compounds share a common source, which is most likely the eagle's food.
A Method of Inferring the Preferences and Mood of Mobile Phone Users by Analyzing Pictograms and Emoticons Used in their Emails

As the ubiquitous communication environment advances, there is a demand for services that deliver the type of content appropriate for the preferences of the user. Services are already available that identify the user’s preferences by analyzing his/her log information, and recommend items of content suitable for him/her. Methods of inferring the user’s mood by partially analyzing pictograms frequently used in his/her emails have been proposed. In this paper, we extend such methods in order to enhance the accuracy of mood inference. Specifically, we propose a method of inferring the user’s mood from emoticons, a set letters to form a face that graphically expresses the user’s emotion, used in his/her multiple emails, and a method of identifying the user’s preferences by analyzing pictograms that are used in his/her single email. We extract mood elements and preference elements and their intensities from pictograms and emoticons, and register them in respective databases. We developed a prototype system for evaluation. The study of the sample emails collected using this system confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Fundamental limits of positron emission mammography

We explore the causes of performance limitation in positron emission mammography cameras. We compare two basic camera geometries containing the same volume of 511 keV photon detectors, one with a parallel plane geometry and another with a rectangular geometry. We find that both geometries have similar performance for the phantom imaged (in Monte Carlo simulation), even though the solid angle coverage of the rectangular camera is about 50 percent higher than the parallel plane camera. The reconstruction algorithm used significantly affects the resulting image; iterative methods significantly outperform the commonly used focal plane tomography. Finally, the characteristics of the tumor itself, specifically the absolute amount of radiotracer taken up by the tumor, will significantly affect the imaging performance.
Multistage separator column for ortho-hydrogen and para-deuterium production

Abstract A simple, seven-stage desorption column of activated alumina with independent thermal control of each stage has been used to provide highly enriched samples of ortho-hydrogen (97%) and para-deuterium (92%).
Fame and the social self: The need to belong, narcissism, and relatedness predict the appeal of fame

The present online survey study (Amazon’s MTurk; n = 371) investigated links between three different social self-concepts (the need to belong, narcissism, and relatedness) and the appeal of fame. We examined fame attitudes using a newly-devised fame appeal scale (yielding three factors: Visibility, Status and Prosocial), as well as with two items probing frequency of fame fantasizing and perceived realism of becoming famous. Results show that higher belongingness needs were associated with increased appeal of all three fame factors, as well as increased frequency of fantasizing about fame (accounting for age and gender). Narcissism was associated with increased appeal of Visibility and Status, more time spent engaged in fame fantasy, and greater perceived realism of future fame. Finally, Relatedness predicted increased appeal of the Prosocial fame factor only. Findings illuminate the socioemotional underpinnings of fame appeal and the individual differences that may render certain aspects of fame particularly alluring.
Activation of protein kinase C isozymes is associated with post-mitotic events in intestinal epithelial cells in situ.

The mechanisms underlying control of cell growth and differentiation in epithelial tissues are poorly understood. Protein kinase C (PKC) isozymes, members of a large family of serine/threonine kinases of fundamental importance in signal transduction, have been increasingly implicated in the regulation of cell growth, differentiation, and function. Using the rat intestinal epithelium as a model system, we have examined PKC-specific activity as well as individual PKC isozyme expression and distribution (i.e., activation status) in epithelial cells in situ. Increased PKC activity was detected in differentiating and functional cells relative to immature proliferating crypt cells. Immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis using a panel of isozyme-specific antibodies revealed that PKC alpha, beta II, delta, epsilon, and zeta are expressed in rat intestinal epithelial cells and exhibit distinct subcellular distribution patterns along the crypt-villus unit. The combined morphological and biochemical approach used permitted analysis of the activation status of specific PKC isozymes at the individual cell level. These studies showed that marked changes in membrane association and level of expression for PKC alpha, beta II, delta, and zeta occur as cells cease division in the mid-crypt region and begin differentiation. Additional changes in PKC activation status are observed with acquisition of mature function on the villus. These studies clearly demonstrate naturally occurring alterations in PKC isozyme activation status at the individual cell level within the context of a developing tissue. Direct activation of PKC in an immature intestinal crypt cell line was shown to result in growth inhibition and coincident translocation of PKC alpha from the cytosolic to the particulate subcellular fraction, paralleling observations made in situ and providing further support for a role of intestinal PKC isozymes in post-mitotic events. PKC isozymes were also found to be tightly associated with cytoskeletal elements, suggesting participation in control of the structural organization of the enterocyte. Taken together, the results presented strongly suggest an involvement of PKC isoforms in cellular processes related to growth cessation, differentiation, and function of intestinal epithelial cells in situ.
Interstitial solute trapping by edge dislocations

Abstract Interstitial solute trapping in the stress field of edge dislocations is considered when solute atoms interact among each other. The Fermi-Dirac statistics are used to account for the short-ranged repulsive interactions which prevents dual site occupancy. The elastic interaction between solute atoms is described in terms of a mean-field attaction plus a macroscopic interaction mediated by the coherency stress field associated with the nonuniform solute distribution. The enhancement of hydrogen solubility in Pd and α-Fe due to trapping in the strain field of edge dislocations is evaluated and compared with experimental results.
Hydrogen termination for extended queue times for low temperature epitaxy

Abstract We investigated the oxidation of hydrogen terminated Si (1 0 0) surfaces stored in Fab air environment. Hydrogen termination for extended queue times with wet and dry clean techniques is investigated. Comparison of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) data and empirical results from Si capping layer are used to determine re-oxidation of the Si surface over extended queue times. H2 pre-bake efficiency with the best clean method, 100:1 HF, in situ rinsed with degasified DI water was tested. 2 min 850 °C and 900 °C H2 bakes, at 10 Torr pressure, both resulted in atomically clean surfaces below SIMS detectable for up to 96 h queue time in lab ambient (controlled 35–40% relative humidity and temperature range of 22–25 °C).
SCHOUTEN IN THE DARK: MISSING THE FOREST AND THE TREES

The present article is a response to a paper by Schouten in the January, 1994 issue of the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy entitled, “A Scale in Search of a Construct: Comments on Gavin and Wamboldt” (Schouten, 1994) in which he comments on our 1992 paper entitled “A Reconsideration of the Family-of-Origin Scale” (Gavin & Wamboldt, 1992). We respond to Schouten's allegations of lack of methodological rigor and “unsubstantiated claims” (Schouten, 1994, p. 59). We systematically address ways in which Schouten has taken our work out of context, missed the essence of our study, and used faulty and/or vacuous logic in an attempt to discredit our findings. Despite the appearance of rigor in Schouten's work, closer scrutiny brings into question the contribution of Schouten's article to the field of family theory or measurement.
Utility of Clysis for Hydration in Nursing Home Residents

OBJECTIVES: To determine the utility of hypodermoclysis in the management of dehydration in nursing home residents and to review the recent literature on the use of clysis in older adults. DESIGN: A retrospective chart review. SETTING: Two continuing care retirement community nursing home units in Cincinnati. PARTICIPANTS: Thirty-six nursing home residents with a mean age of 85 years. MEASUREMENTS: A standard chart auditing form was used to collect demographic and clinical data from the patients' nursing home charts. Clinical outcomes were assessed at 1 week following the cessation of clysis. RESULTS: The study subjects were functionally impaired, with 86% having significant cognitive impairment and 81% totally dependent with transfer. The most common indication for clysis was in association with an infection. Clysis was frequently initiated upon nursing observation of inadequate oral intake before obtaining laboratory results and discontinued upon resumption of adequate oral intake. The use of clysis was associated with the return to clinical/functional baseline in 71% of the cases. In the subset of subjects with pre- and post-clysis measurements of serum sodium and BUN/creatinine ratios, improvement in laboratory values was not significant. The use of clysis was not associated with significant complications, but in nine cases minor local skin reactions were documented. CONCLUSIONS: Hypodermoclysis is a relatively safe and effective procedure in a nursing home. The use of clysis in the nursing home is an alternative to intravenous hydration. The use of clysis for short-term hydration has the potential to reduce cost and transfers to the hospital. J Am Geriatr Soc 44:969–973, 1996.
Cultured cells from renal cortex of hibernators and nonhibernators. Regulation of cell K+ at low temperature

Cells were grown as primary monolayer cultures from kidney cortex of guinea pigs (nonhibernators), hamsters and ground squirrels (both hibernating species). When plates of cells were placed at 5 °C, cells of guinea pigs lost 37% of their K+ in 2 h and those of the hibernator lost about 10%. Uptake of 42K into the cells exhibited a simple, single exponential time course at both temperatures. Unidirectional efflux of K+ was equal to K+ influx in all cultures at 37 °C and, within limits of error, in hibernator cells at 5 °C. Efflux was 3- to 5-fold greater than influx in guinea pig cells at 5 °C. After 2 h in the cold the ouabain-sensitive K+ influx remaining (7–15% of that at 37 °C) was about the same in the cells of the 3 species. Cells from active hamsters and from hibernating ground squirrels, however, exhibited significantly greater pump activity after 45 min in the cold (19 and 14%, respectively). The stimulation of K+ influx by increasing [K+]o did not show an increase in Km+ at 5 °C in cells of guinea pigs and ground squirrels. Lowering [K+]c and/or raising [Na+]c by treatment in low- and high-K+ media caused only slight stimulation of K+ influx, except in cells of ground squirrels at 5 °C in which the stimulation was at least 11-times greater than at 37 °C or in cells of guinea pigs at either temperature. This altered kinetic response of K+ transport to cytoplasmic ion stimulation with cooling accounted for about one-third of the improved regulation of K+ at 5 °C in ground squirrel cells; the other two-thirds was attributable to a greater decrease in K+ leak with cooling. The inhibition of active transport by cold in all 3 species was much less severe than that previously seen in any (Na+ + K+)-ATPase of mammalian cells.
Properties of alcohol dehydrogenase and ethanol oxidation in vivo and in hepatocytes

Studies in this laboratory have been concerned with testing the properties of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) in vitro as predictors of ethanol oxidation in the rat in vivo. With the kinetic constants for the extracted enzyme determined under physiological conditions (pH 7.3, ionic strength = 0.25, 38 degrees C), it was possible to predict rates of ethanol elimination in the rat in vivo within +/- 15%. The results indicate that the level of ADH is the major rate determining factor and that physiological levels of free cytosolic NADH have a minor influence (less than or equal to 20%) on the rate of ethanol oxidation in vivo. Those conclusions are supported by results with isolated hepatocytes which, when incubated without other substrates, oxidize ethanol at 1/3 the rate in vivo. Under that condition, titrations with 4-pentylpyrazole show that ADH is not rate determining, and acceleration of NADH reoxidation stimulates ethanol removal. When hepatocyte incubations are supplemented with substrates, ethanol oxidation proceeds at rates similar to those in vivo, and the rates are, as in vivo, determined largely by the cellular content of ADH.
The University of Washington electronic medical record experience

The Health Sciences Library at the University of Washington initiated and continues to develop a role in the electronic medical record, starting with the development of the first integrated web-based interface, called MINDscape. An Integrated Academic Information Management System (IAIMS) grant in 1992 began the process, which also led to the development of a clinical medical librarian position. Over the years, the librarian's role in the clinical environment became more established, and with the advent of clinical online resources, it offered further opportunities for librarians to provide the expertise needed to incorporate the appropriate resources. The collaborative journey continues as librarians, now able to directly access the EMRs, provide information about what resources to use and where best to place them and design how best to provide notes or feedback to clinicians.
Red to blue upconversion in Tm-doped sol–gel silicate glasses

Abstract In thulium-doped glasses derived from the hydrolysis of orthosilicates we worked with different annealing conditions so as to enhance the fluorescence yield. In addition, we observed blue upconverted fluorescence from both the 1 G 4 and 1 D 2 levels of thulium when the glasses were excited with red laser light. Two-step absorption mechanisms with different intermediate levels are responsible for populating the two emitting levels.
Clinical Foundation for Efficient Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Only a few decades ago, the entity known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) was unknown and untreated. Now, there is a rush to put literally millions of Americans on continuous positive airway pressure devices. Community practice standards are changing yearly under pressure from strong forces based on economic incentives for industry, government, and physicians, independent of the actual medical evidence supporting treatment and efficacy. Medicare has lowered the diagnostic threshold for diagnosis and reimbursement; the International Classification of Sleep Disorders, Revision 2 (2005) has allowed OSA to be diagnosed exclusively by a laboratory test without the patient having clinical symptoms of excessive daytime sleepiness; and industry is poised to have the public buy computer-assisted continuous positive airway pressure machines without need of a physician prescription. Because of this paradigm shift away from physician-directed diagnosis and treatment, this article will critically evaluate the present state of medical evidence regarding the clinical foundation for treatment of OSA.
The interactive effect of anxiety sensitivity and frequency of marijuana use in terms of anxious responding to bodily sensations among youth

Abstract Marijuana use is associated with anxiety, particularly among those anxiety conditions in which panic is common. It may therefore be that risk factors for panic increase the likelihood that marijuana users will experience problematic anxiety symptoms. The current study investigated the role of one such risk factor, anxiety sensitivity (AS), or the extent to which an individual is frightened of anxiety symptoms. We examined whether AS interacts with frequency of marijuana use to increase anxious responding (using a three-minute voluntary hyperventilation procedure). The sample consisted of 153 adolescents (46.4% female) ages 11–17 ( M =14.92, S.D.=1.49). As predicted, AS moderated the link between lifetime marijuana use frequency and both post-challenge physiological anxiety (as indexed by skin conductance) and post-challenge subjective anxiety in female (but not male) adolescents such that those with high AS and more frequent marijuana use demonstrated the highest level of challenge-induced fear response. This effect remained even after controlling for relevant variables (e.g., age, trait anxiety, lifetime alcohol and cigarette use). Present findings suggest AS appears to serve as an important and potentially specific anxiety-related variable that deserves serious attention as a potential vulnerability factor among frequent marijuana-using females.
Recovery of functional proteins from sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels.

Abstract A simple method and apparatus are described for the efficient recovery of proteins from sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel systems after electrophoretic resolution. This procedure provides for high yields of proteins which are free of sodium dodecyl sulfate and in certain cases, exhibit significant levels of biological activity.
Fluctuations in the pace of labor reallocation

Familiar observations: The pattern and distribution of production opportunities change constantly in a modern economy. These changing opportunities spur a time-consuming, and otherwise costly, reallocation of specialized resources. In the case of labor, this reallocation process often manifests itself as unemployment. Most readers will agree that these observations are quite pertinent to an economic explanation of the underlying rate of unemployment in a market economy. Upon turning to an explanation of unemployment-rate fluctuations, or the broad pattern of fluctuations in aggregate economic activity, I suspect that the same readers will attach small weight to fluctuations in the magnitude of specialized resource reallocation. The main reason that most economists assign a backseat status to the reallocation process when explaining aggregate economic fluctuations is set forth succinctly by Lucas (1977, p. 20): A new technology, reducing costs of producing an old good or making possible the production of a new one, will draw resources into the good which benefits, and away from the production of other goods. Taste shifts in favor of the purchase of one good involve reduced expenditures on others. Moreover, in a complex modern economy, there will be a large number of such shifts in any given period, each small in importance relative to
Alteration of Brain Neurotransmitters in Female Rat Offspring Induced by Prenatal Administration of 16 and 64 mg/kg of 2,2',4,4',5,5'-hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB153)

PCB153 (2,2',4,4',5,5'-hexachlorobiphenyl), a non-coplanar PCB and the congener most widely distributed in the environment, was orally administered to pregnant Sprague-Dawley (Crj: CD (SD) IGS) rats from gestation day 10 through 16 at doses of 0 (control), 16 and 64 mg/kg body weight. Female pups were sacrificed at 1, 3, 6, and 9 wk, and at 1 yr of age to evaluate the differences in brain neurotransmitters and their metabolites between PCB153-exposed and control groups. Brain levels of norepinephrine (NE), 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG), dopamine (DA), 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), homovanillic acid (HVA), serotonin (5HT), 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5HIAA), acetylcholine (ACh), and choline (Ch) in discrete brain regions or in whole brain were measured. At 1 to 3 wk after birth, brain levels of DA, DOPAC, HVA, 5HT and 5HIAA in PCB-exposed groups were higher than those of the control group. At 9 wk after birth, DA turnover was reduced in half of the four brain areas examined (forebrain and hindbrain), and 5HIAA levels were increased in all brain areas in the PCB-treated group compared to those of the control group. At 1 yr after birth, the levels of DA, DOPAC, and HVA in the hippocampus, hypothalamus, and medulla oblongata were lower in the PCB-exposed groups than in the control group. Prenatal exposure to PCB153 stimulated the turnover of 5HT neurons in the brain of female offspring at early stages (1 to 9 wk) of development. On the other hand, the turnover of DA neurons in the PCB-exposed groups was reduced in late stages (9 wk to 1 yr) of development compared with that of the control group. The brain neurotransmitters of dams treated with PCB were assayed at 3 wk after delivery (15 wk old), and decreases in DA, DOPAC, and HVA were observed. PCB153 reduced the activity of DA neurons in the brain of dams. These results are discussed in relation to health effects observed in humans exposed to PCBs.
Nanocomposites based on cellulose whiskers and (semi)conducting conjugated polymers

Two examples of a new class of functional nanocomposites derived from cellulose nanofibers (referred to as “whiskers”) and (semi)conducting π-conjugated polymers were prepared and studied. The conjugated polymers used were polyaniline (PANI) and a poly(p-phenylene ethynylene) (PPE) derivative with quaternary ammonium side chains. Cellulose whiskers with a typical diameter of around 20 nm, a length of around 1–2 µm, and anionic surface charges were combined with the positively charged π-conjugated polymers to form stable dispersions in polar solvents such as formic acid. Thin films were produced by solution-casting. Their composition was systematically varied to comprise between 65 and 99.4% w/w of the whiskers. Measurements of electrical conductivity, photoluminescence, and mechanical properties reveal that the nanocomposites synergistically combine the electronic characteristics of the conjugated polymers with the outstanding mechanical characteristics of the cellulose scaffold.
Three-dimensional structures of HIV-1 and SIV protease product complexes.

Strain is eliminated as a factor in hydrolysis of the scissile peptide bond by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), based on the first eight complexes of products of hydrolysis with the enzymes. The carboxyl group generated at the scissile bond interacts with both catalytic aspartic acids. The structures directly suggest the interactions of the gemdiol intermediate with the active site. Based on the structures, the nucleophilic water is displaced stereospecifically by substrate binding toward one catalytic aspartic acid, while the scissile carbonyl becomes hydrogen bonded to the other catalytic aspartic acid in position for hydrolysis. Crystal structures for two N-terminal (P) products and two C-terminal (Q) products provide unambiguous density for the ligands at 2.2−2.6 A resolution and 17−21% R factors. The N-terminal product, Ac-S-L-N-F/, overlaps closely with the N-terminal sequences of peptidomimetic inhibitors bound to the protease. Comparison of the two C-te...
Preeclampsia and antioxidants: decreased placental tissue and maternal serum levels of carotenoids

Abstract Objective: To compare the levels of four major dietary carotenoids (α-carotene, β-carotene, lycopene and canthaxanthin) in maternal and umbilical cord blood and in placental tissue in normal pregnancy and in patients with preeclampsia. Methods: Using high-performance liquid chromatography, levels of α-carotene, β-carotene, lycopene, and canthaxanthin were assayed in maternal and umbilical cord blood and in placental tissues obtained from normal pregnant women (n = 22) and women with preeclampsia (n = 19). Results: All four carotenoids were detectable in human placental tissue, and their levels in placentas of preeclamptic women were significantly (P Conclusion: The findings of a reduction in various placental carotenoid levels in women with preeclampsia suggest that oxidative stress and placental antioxidant protection may play a role in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia.
AMELIORATION OF CARDIOTOXIC EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL BY VITAMIN E

AbstractInjection of mice with a single ip dose of 2g/kg of ethanol leads to time dependent increases of lactic dehydrogenase plasma isoenzymes indicative of myocardial damage. Electron microscopic analysis of the myocardium shows changes in mitochondrial structure, endoplasmic reticulum and myofibrils. Pretreatment of the animals with 86 units of a tocopherol partially prevented the changes in isoenzyme patterns and reduced the electron microscopic evidence of myocardial damage. The study supports previous findings that some of the toxic effects of alcohol might be mediated through free radical mechanisms leading to lipid peroxidation and that the ameliorating effect of a tocopherol could relate to its function as antioxidant and free radical scavenger.
IS personnel: do they form an occupational community?

The purpose of this paper is to determine the extent to which information system (IS) personnel form an occupational community. To this end, a model of an occupational community is developed. Occupational communities are hypothesized to form when people are highly involved in and identify with their work, when the work itself is inclusive, and when people are isolated (in terms of geography and/or time.) Data was obtained on the strength of the IS occupational community, and on the three antecedents of involvement, inclusivity, and isolation, through semi-structured interviews with IS personnel. The results show that IS personnel form a weak occupational community, if they can be said to form an occupational community at all.
Asthma severity, atopic status, allergen exposure and quality of life in elderly persons.

Background Although asthma can be associated with significant airflow obstruction in those over the age of 65, it is often underdiagnosed and undertreated. Objective To describe severity of asthma, allergy skin test sensitivities, indoor allergen exposures, and the impact on quality of life (QOL) and health status in elderly persons with asthma. Methods A cross-sectional data analysis with 80 elderly persons with asthma recruited from medical, geriatric, and allergy/immunology tertiary care centers. Asthma severity was determined by symptoms and measurements of lung function. House dust specimens were collected from mattresses and bedroom carpets and analyzed separately for the major allergens of house dust, using monoclonal antibody-based immunoenzymetric assays. QOL was measured using Juniper's Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire. Health status was measured using the Short Form Health Survey Medical Outcome Questionnaire which included Ferrans and Powers' Quality of Life Index subscales. Results Two-thirds of participants had either moderate or severe persistent asthma. Skin tests to a battery of common airborne allergens were positive to at least one allergen in 56 of the 75 participants tested (74.7%). Reservoir dust allergen levels were often high enough to place participants at risk of symptoms or at risk of developing sensitization. Increased asthma severity was associated with significantly lower QOL and a trend toward decreased health status. Conclusions Asthma is a significant chronic problem in the elderly. Atopy was common. Asthma severity impacts on these participants' QOL and health status. Results support interventions aimed at identifying allergens precipitating attacks and reducing them in the home.
Sophisticated Information Processing Technology: Its Relationship with an Organization's Environment, Structure, and Culture

This study examined the sophistication of information processing technology in an organization in relation to the organization's environment, its structure, and its culture. The relationships were examined by using both archival and questionnaire data from 298 public human resource departments. Human resource departments are important users of information technology because they require large amounts of data and because sophisticated software is available to them. The results indicate that both the presence of computer hardware and the sophistication of the information processing technology were associated with the organization's environmental and structural characteristics. Organization culture, however, was related only to the sophistication of information technology.
The 14.2 and 14.5 MeV levels of 15O formed via 3He bombardment of 12C

Abstract The alpha-particle core-excited threshold state (APCETS) model indicates that the 14.2 and 14.5 MeV levels in 15 O are formed by coupling an L = 1 alpha particle to the 1 2 − first excited state of 11 C. Detailed measurements of the cross section as a function of energy and angle for the 12 C( 3 He, 3 He) 12 C and the 12 C ( 3 He, a0) 11 C reactions have been obtained for incident 3 He energies of 2.3 to 3.3 MeV. The elastic data were analyzed by means of an optical model plus resonance (OMPR) formulation. A Legendre polynomial analysis was performed on the a0 data. The results indicate a 1 2 + assignment for the level at 14.2 MeV and a ( 3 2 + , 5 2 + ) assignment for the 14.5 MeV level. These assignments are in accord with the APCETS model.
Mice Lacking Dad1, the Defender against Apoptotic Death-1, Express Abnormal N-Linked Glycoproteins and Undergo Increased Embryonic Apoptosis

Dad1 has been shown to play a role in preventing apoptotic cell death and in regulating levels of N-linked glycosylation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the BHK hamster cell line. To address the in vivo role of Dad1 in these processes during multicellular development, we have analyzed mice carrying a null allele for Dad1. Embryos homozygous for this mutation express abnormal N-glycosylated proteins and are developmentally delayed by embryonic day 7.5. Such mutants exhibit aberrant morphology, impaired mesodermal development, and increased levels of apoptosis in specific tissues. These defects culminate in homozygous embryos failing to turn the posterior axis and subsequent lethality by embryonic day 10.5. Thus, Dad1 is required for proper processing of N-linked glycoproteins and for certain cell survival in the mouse.
Breakthroughs in cancer gene therapy

Abstract Objectives: To give oncology nurses an overview on the vectors and selected approaches used in the current clinical trials involving gene transfer to cancer patients. Data sources: Peer-reviewed scientific papers, review articles, and book chapters. Conclusion: Significant progress has been made in the field of cancer gene therapy. Different phases of clinical protocols derived from new generations of vectors and novel approaches are being tested for use in the treatment of patients with cancer. Implications for nursing practice: Oncology nurses need to be familiar with current advances in the field of cancer gene therapy to expand their role as health care professional, patient educator, and advocate for the treatment of patients with cancer.
Novel reactivity of ruthenium alkylidenes in protic solvents: degenerate alkylidene proton exchange.

A novel organometallic transformation is reported in which the alkylidene protons of water-soluble ruthenium alkylidenes 1 and 2 undergo nondestructive, degenerate exchange with solvent-derived deuterons in perdeuterated protic solvents such as D_2O and CD_3OD. Deuterated alkylidene complex (1-D) was isolated from a solution of alkylidene 1 in D_2O, and the new alkylidene was fully characterized by ^1H, ^2H, ^(13)C, and ^(31)P NMR spectroscopy and fast-atom bombardment mass spectroscopy (FAB-MS). The rate of alkylidene proton exchange for this transformation was found to correlate with the bulk dielectric constant of the solvent or solvent mixtures employed. The data support a mechanism for proton exchange involving the dissociation of a chloride ion from the ruthenium metal center. The rate of alkylidene H/D exchange for alkylidene 2 was faster than the rate of exchange for alkylidene 1, demonstrating that relative rates of exchange are influenced by the electron densities at the metal centers of these complexes. Several additional ruthenium alkylidenes were found to undergo analogous alkylidene H/D exchange reactions, including parent alkylidene (Cy_3P)_2Cl_2Ru═CHPh (3) in CD_2Cl_2/CD_3OD mixtures. These data suggest that this novel reactivity may be general for an entire class of ruthenium alkylidenes provided that protic species are available in solution and that the dielectric constant of the reaction medium is sufficiently high to ionize the halide ligands.