cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An evaluation of food addiction as a distinct psychiatric disorder.

Objective To evaluate the state of the literature for whether food addiction may warrant consideration as a distinct psychiatric disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) using Blashfield et al.'s (1990; Comprehensive Psychiatry, 31(1), 15-19) five criteria. This framework was utilized because it has recently been applied to examine the diagnostic utility of several eating disorder phenotypes. The criteria are: (a) at least 50 journal articles published on the proposed syndrome in the past 10 years; (b) proposal of diagnostic criteria and assessment measures; (c) clinician reliability in diagnosis; (d) cohesiveness of the proposed diagnostic criteria; and (e) differentiation from similar, existing diagnostic categories. Method For each criterion, a literature review was conducted to examine if the minimum qualification had been met, and key findings were discussed. Results Two of the criteria (literature and differentiation) have been empirically supported to extent specified. Two criteria (diagnostic criteria and syndrome) have been partially fulfilled, due to only having self-report assessment measures and no examination of the odds ratios for meeting more than one symptom, respectively. Clinician reliability has not yet been evaluated. Discussion The existing literature suggests that food addiction may warrant consideration as a proposed diagnostic category in the DSM, though future research is needed to fulfill Blashfield et al.'s (1990; Comprehensive Psychiatry, 31(1), 15-19) criteria. The development of a semi-structured interview would be an impactful contribution for addressing these gaps.
Performance and acceptability of self-collected human papillomavirus testing among women living with HIV.

Abstract Objective To assess the validity, reliability, and acceptability of self-collected human papillomavirus (HPV) tests in women living with HIV (WLHIV) in the United States. Methods WLHIV ≥30 years of age underwent self-collected (clinic and home) and clinician-collected HPV tests. Sensitivity and specificity analyses were performed using the clinician-collected HPV tests as the comparator. The unweighted kappa statistic was used to evaluate the validity and reliability of self-collected HPV testing, and the level of agreement between the clinician-collected mRNA test and a DNA test that was used for routine care. A 13-question survey was used to assess acceptability. Results Among the 70 participants, the median age was 50 years, 75% had an undetectable HIV RNA, and 11% had a CD4 count of Conclusions Among WLHIV, self-collected HPV tests had good sensitivity and moderate specificity compared to clinician-collected HPV tests. The reliability between self-collected testing locations was good. Self-collected HPV testing had high acceptability.
Liver transplant for inherited metabolic disease among siblings

Liver transplantation is a successful option for inherited metabolic disease yet little is published on the outcome among siblings. We report outcomes of siblings who have undergone liver transplantation for metabolic disease in a single program. Seventy-one siblings (35 males) from 33 individual families underwent liver transplantation since 1982. Outcomes were compared over three consecutive eras. Twenty-eight families had two siblings, four had three siblings, and one had four siblings. In half of families where dates of listing were known, siblings were listed simultaneously. Mean (SD) age at listing for the oldest and second sibling was 13.2 (7.1) and 9.8 (5.7) years, respectively (p < .01). In 18/33 families, the oldest sibling underwent transplantation first. Mean (SD) age at transplant fell from the oldest to second sibling from 12.9 (7.2) to 9.5 (6.3) years, respectively (p < .001). Ten-year patient survival was 83.5% which improved over the eras: era 1 (1982-1994) 65.0%, era 2 (1995-2007) 87.5%, and era 3 (2008-2019) 93.8%: p < .03. Sex, age at transplant, order of transplant, and presence of structural liver disease did not significantly impact survival. When siblings undergo liver transplant for inherited metabolic disease, later siblings are listed and transplanted at a significantly younger age.
Delayed diagnosis and disparity in hepatitis C virus-infected immigrants in North America: A call for action.

We read with interest the recent paper by Lapointe-Shaw et al. (1) , which reported that peri-complication HCV diagnosis which occurred within +/- 6 months of developing decompensated cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), or undergoing a liver transplant occurred in 4.2 % of those with HCV diagnosis (1,645/39,515), which was 31.6 % of the total cases with end-stage complications (1,645/5,202). In addition, they found only 2.9% (n=133) of those with peri-complication diagnoses were immigrants and that immigrants were less likely to have been diagnosed with HCV as a result of presenting with end-stage liver complications.
Inhaled Tranexamic Acid for Massive Hemoptysis in the Setting of Oral Anticoagulation: A Case Report

Author(s): Dempsey, Jacqueline M.; Jones, Mandy; Bronner, Jonathan; Greer, Connor; Howington, Gavin T. | Abstract: Introduction: We discuss a case of massive hemoptysis in the setting of a direct-acting oral anticoagulant (DOAC) successfully managed with nebulized tranexamic acid (TXA).Case Report: Per the American College of Cardiology and the American Society of Hematology, it is recommended that significant bleeding associated with a DOAC be treated with either 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate or andexanet alfa. However, our patient was at high risk for thrombotic complications given a recent pulmonary embolism.Conclusion: We demonstrate that it is reasonable to trial nebulized TXA given its low cost, ease of administration, and safety profile. Additionally, this report discusses a unique dosing strategy and a previously unreported complication associated with nebulization of undiluted TXA.
Insurance Coverage and Use of Hormones Among Transgender Respondents to a National Survey

PURPOSE We undertook a study to assess the associations between barriers to insurance coverage for gender-affirming hormones (either lack of insurance or claim denial) and patterns of hormone use among transgender adults. METHODS We used data from the US Transgender Survey, a large national sample of 27,715 transgender adults, collected from August to September 2015. We calculated weighted proportions and performed multivariate logistic regression analyses. RESULTS Of 12,037 transgender adults using hormones, 992 (9.17%) were using nonprescription hormones. Among insured respondents, 2,528 (20.81%) reported that their claims were denied. Use of nonprescription hormones was more common among respondents who were uninsured (odds ratio = 2.64; 95% CI, 1.88-3.71; P <.001) or whose claims were denied (odds ratio = 2.53; 95% CI, 1.61-3.97; P <.001). Uninsured respondents were also less likely to be using hormones (odds ratio = 0.37; 95% CI, 0.24-0.56; P <.001). CONCLUSIONS Lack of insurance coverage for gender-affirming hormones is associated with lower overall odds of hormone use and higher odds of use of nonprescription hormones; such barriers may thus be linked to unmonitored and unsafe medication use, and increase the risks for adverse health outcomes. Ensuring access to hormones can decrease the economic burden transgender people face, and is an important part of harm-reduction strategies.
CEOs’ educational background and investments in software

In the latter half of Japan’s Two Lost Decades (1990–2010), Japanese firms failed to undergo a thorough information and communications technology (ICT) revolution. In this study, we investigate the...
Spontaneous Congenital Perilabyrinthine Cerebrospinal Fluid Fistulas.

Objectives:To report a recalcitrant spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula arising from multiple, anatomically-linked lateral skull base defects, and to review the available literature to de...
Industry Payments to Rheumatologists Ought to Be Going Down, Not Up.

In the current issue of Arthritis & Rheumatology, Putman et al report findings regarding the distribution and temporal trends of industry payments to US rheumatologists [cite ar-21-0182]. Their findings are in line with similar reports from other medical and surgical specialties, and highlight the overarching concern regarding the ability of industry payments to adversely affect care quality within the specific context of rheumatology practice.
Bio-Degradable Stents: Primary Experience in a Tertiary Hepatopancreaticobiliary Center in the United Kingdom.

BACKGROUND Management of benign biliary strictures (BBS) post bilioenteric anastomoses requires a multidisciplinary approach including surgical, radiological, and/or endoscopic input. Patients often need multiple hospital visits for treatment with the long-term possibility of restenosis. Conventionally BBS have been treated with serial percutaneous transhepatic biliary dilatations necessitating repeat procedures for drain exchange or removal. Surgery may become necessary in refractory strictures. In the last decade, there have been increasing reports of the use of biodegradable stents (BDS) in treating biliary strictures mainly to address the need for repeated procedures for drain exchange. AIM This study aimed to report the early outcomes in patients with BBS treated with BDS. METHODS Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was performed in patients who had a bilioenteric anastomosis presenting with an anastomotic stricture and were intended to be treated with BDS. The primary endpoints reported were technical success (defined as a successful resolution of stricture on repeat cholangiogram) and clinical success (defined as the absence of repeated cholangitis). Clavien-Dindo (CD) grade of complication was reported. RESULTS Twelve patients presented with BBS and nine patients had BDS. Three patients were not considered suitable for BDS due to a non-traversable stricture and had surgery. The male-female ratio was 1:2. There was 100% technical and clinical success with one patient having stent migration not needing intervention. The procedure took an average of 45 min. In seven (77.7%) patients, it was safely performed under local anesthesia with sedation. Two patients preferred general anesthesia. There was no restenosis noted at a median follow-up of 11 months. CONCLUSION The use of BDS in the treatment of BBS is a safe and effective procedure. Longer-term follow-up with multi-institutional reporting on a national database is needed to assess its long-term benefits.
Acute Autonomic Symptoms with Anti-MAG Neuropathy as a Presentation of Small B Cell Lymphoma (P03.023)

OBJECTIVE: We report the case of 68 year old female who presented with distal symmetric sensorimotor polyneuropathy developed acute onset urinary retention, orthostatic hypotension, bradycardia and was found to have Anti-MAG antibody neuropathy (MAN). Further work up including a bone marrow biopsy revealed a small B cell lymphoma. BACKGROUND: MAN classically presents with distal symmetric sensorimotor polyneuropathy. Autonomic symptoms are uncommon with MAN. Few cases have reported a small B cell lymphoma presenting with MAN associated autonomic symptoms. DESIGN/METHODS: Case Report. RESULTS: 68 year old lady presented with progressive ascending numbness, weakness of her extremities and balance problems. On exam she was diffusely weak (MRC grading 4/5), had reduced perception to all modalities of sensation with marked impairment of vibration and position sense in lower limbs. Reflexes were diminished throughout and Romberg was positive. Initial lab work including TSH, Vitamin B12, Hb1c, routine labs was normal. Patient then developed acute urinary retention; severe orthostatic hypotension and symptomatic bradycardia so much so that she needed temporary pacing. Work up during this time revealed M spike on serum electrophoresis with IgM kappa on immunofixation. IgM titers were 568mg/dl (normal 40 - 230 mg/dl). Initially she was thought to have MGUS related neuropathy but further work up showed anti MAG antibody titers >1:102400 (normal CONCLUSIONS: Acute autonomic symptoms can be a rare and a confusing clinical manifestation of anti-MAG distal symmetric polyneuropathy.Thorough work-up including bone marrow biopsy is needed to rule out underlying B cell lymphoma in the presence of a monoclonal gammopathy. Disclosure: Dr. Reyes has nothing to disclose. Dr. Govindarajan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Salgado has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity from Belvoir Media Group as Consulting Editor of A Special Report published by the editors of Heart Advisor Cleveland Clinic STROKE: Advances in Prevention and Treatment of Cerebrovascular Disease.
Nonthermal Plasma Synthesis of Nanocrystals: Fundamentals, Applications, and Future Research Needs

Nonthermal plasma synthesis has emerged as a viable alternative to nanocrystal synthesis in the liquid phase or by other gas phase based methods. The nonequilibrium environment containing free charge carriers enables the synthesis of nanocrystals with excellent crystallinity and narrow size distributions. This paper reviews the fundamental mechanisms involved in the synthesis of nanocrystals with nonthermal plasmas. It discusses the luminescent properties of plasma-produced silicon nanocrystals and their application in devices such as light emitting diodes. The ability of plasma synthesis to generate doped nanocrystals is a particularly appealing attribute. We present boron and phosphorous doped silicon nanocrystals and review their applications as near infrared plasmonic materials. Finally, the author presents his view of some important research needs in the area of nonthermal plasma synthesis of nanocrystals.
Teaching Business Ethics: Theory and Practice

Business ethics teaching can be improved when ethicists integrate the ethical theories they apply to business with the organizational design of the course. By utilizing three techniques – implementing a Total Quality Management-style survey and review, “nominating” and “electing” class virtues, and telling personal stories of moral action – classes can be organized to operate by the social contract, rights, stakeholder, and virtue theories that dominate business ethics literature. Classes then become laboratories for the practical articulation and application of the theories as well as providing “real” examples of the theories in action. This methodology produces benefits for the particular class and for the development and refinement of the theories themselves. This paper describes each of the three pedagogical techniques; and then explicitly relates them to these leading business ethics theories to demonstrate how the integration can lead to a “community” seeking and discovering moral truth in the classroom.
A novel graph algorithm for circuit recognition

This paper presents novel subcircuit recognition and verification algorithms based on a new technique for circuit graph coding. This coding uniquely identifies each subcircuit and is ideal for applications requiring circuit graph isomorphism in the presence of parasitics. These algorithms use a new circuit graph and graph isomorphism techniques to generate a unique code for each subcircuit, which has led to an improved circuit recognition algorithm.
Abstract 11915: Clinical Gadolinium-Free Magnetic Resonance Imaging With Magnetization Transfer Contrast Detects Cardiac Fibrosis With High Sensitivity and Specificity Compared to Late Gadolinium Enhanced Imaging

Intro: Cardiac fibrosis identified by late gadolinium enhanced (LGE) cardiac MRI (CMR) is prognostic of adverse cardiac events, but is contraindicated in high-risk patients with impaired renal function. The signal intensity of balanced steady state free precession (bSSFP) CMR images is weighted by magnetization transfer (MT) from extracellular matrix macromolecules as a function of flip angle. We hypothesized that changes in the MT ratio (MTR) from pairs of differentially MT-weighted bSSFP cine images can enable identification of cardiac fibrosis without gadolinium. Methods: Patients (n=47) referred for CMR were imaged on a 1.5T Siemens Aera scanner (Erlanger, Germany). Pairs of differentially MT-weighted bSSFP images (excitation flip angles of 5° or 45°), native T1 maps and T2 maps were acquired in one mid-ventricular slice. LGE images and post-contrast T1 maps were acquired after injection of gadolinium-DTPA (0.2 mmol/kg) and gadolinium partition coefficient (GPC) was calculated. MTR maps were calculated as (S45-S5)/S5*100 (%), where Sflip_angle is the voxel signal intensity. A feature tracking algorithm was used to measure peak endocardial circumferential strain, systolic and diastolic strain rates. Voxels were classified as healthy or enhanced at LGE and applied to maps of MTR, native T1, T2, and GPC for each patient. Results: In 22 patients with fibrosis MTR maps and LGE revealed similar enhancement patterns (Fig A, B). Mean MTR, native T1, T2, and GPC were higher and peak strain was reduced in fibrotic tissue (p<0.05 healthy v. fibrotic for all). While MTR (R = 0.82), T1 (R = 0.55), and T2 (R = 0.75) correlated with GPC, receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed higher area under the curve values for MTR (0.96) compared to native T1 (0.78), T2 (0.84), peak strain (0.66), systolic (0.64) and diastolic (0.65) strain rates (Fig C, p<0.05 MTR v. all). Conclusion: MT-weighted bSSFP cine CMR identified cardiac fibrosis comparable to LGE but without gadolinium. ![][1] [1]: /embed/graphic-1.gif
Equality and non-discrimination under international law

Contents: Introduction. Part I Concepts of Equality and Non-Discrimination: Equality, Jarlath Clifford Equality and nondiscrimination, B.G. Ramcharan Equality and non-discrimination, Daniel Moeckli The principle of equality or non-discrimination in international law, Anne F. Bayefsky Non-discrimination and equality, Matthew Craven. Part II Development of International Legal Standards: Colonies, minorities, and women's rights, Johannes Morsink The racial convention, Michael Banton Becoming human: the origins and development of women's human rights, Arvonne S, Fraser The disabilities convention: human rights of persons with disabilities or disability rights?, FrA(c)dA(c)ric MA(c)gret Sexual orientation, gender identity and international human rights law: contextualising the Yogyakarta principles, Michael Oa (TM)Flaherty and John Fisher. Part III Interpreting and Applying the Law: Prohibited discrimination in international human rights law, Dinah Shelton The CEDAW committee and violence against women, Christine Chinkin Violence against women as sex discrimination: judging the jurisprudence of the United Nations Human Rights Treaty bodies, Alice Edwards A critical evaluation of international human rights approaches to racism, Kevin Boyle and Anneliese Baldaccini The European Court of Justice and anti-discrimination law: some reflections on the experience of gender equality jurisprudence for the future interpretation of the Racial Equality Directive, Sejal Parmar. Part IV Non-Legal Measures for Achieving Equality and Non-Discrimination: Article 10, Fareda Banda The neglected pillar: the a "teaching tolerancea (TM) provision of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, Stephanie Farrior Using culture to achieve equality, Ingrid Westendorp. Name index.
Rewarding and stimulating creativity and innovation in technology companies

The author presents survey results regarding the current use of reward systems for creativity and innovation in technology companies. The survey also investigated various company culture attributes affecting innovation and creativity. The survey's findings and the literature showed that companies use visibility through recognition and awards most frequently as rewards of creativity. The survey also found that many companies encourage autonomous idea teams and provide access to resources to pursue new ideas. However, internal funding of ideas (entrepreneurship) has not been broadly adopted or implemented. Internal funding is seen as the way of the future, since it allows innovative employees the time and money required to come up with and implement truly innovative ideas. >
'Race' and the human genome

This supplement has its origins on May 15, 2003, when the National Human Genome Center at Howard University held a small but important workshop in Washington DC. The workshop, Human Genome Variation and 'Race', and this special issue of Nature Genetics were proposed by scientists at Howard University and financially supported by the Genome Programs of the US Department of Energy, through its Office of Science; the Irving Harris Foundation; the National Institutes of Health, through the National Human Genome Research Institute; and Howard University. As summarized by Francis Collins, director of the National Human Genome Research Institute, the workshop focused on several key questions: "What does the current body of scientific information say about the connections among race, ethnicity, genetics and health? What remains unknown? What additional research is needed? How can this information be applied to benefit human health? How might this information be applied in nonmedical settings? How can we adopt policies that will achieve beneficial societal outcomes?" This supplement, supported by the Department of Energy through a grant to Howard University, contains articles based on the presentations at this workshop.
Mayo Clinic Consensus Recommendations for the Depth of Excision in Primary Cutaneous Melanoma

Currently, no data from randomized controlled clinical trials are available to guide the depth of resection for intermediate-thickness primary cutaneous melanoma. Thus, we hypothesized that substantial variability exists in this aspect of surgical care. We have summarized the literature regarding depth of resection and report the results of our survey of surgeons who treat melanoma. Most of the 320 respondents resected down to, but did not include, the muscular fascia (extremity, 71%; trunk, 66%; and head and neck, 62%). However, significant variation exists. We identified variability in our own practice and have elected to standardize this common aspect of routine surgical care across our institution. In light of the lack of evidence to support resection of the deep muscular fascia, we have elected to preserve the muscular fascia as a matter of routine, except when a deep primary melanoma or thin subcutaneous tissue dictates otherwise.
EVIDENCE FOR THREE SEPARATE ELECTRON FLOW PATHWAYS THROUGH COMPLEX I : AN INHIBITOR STUDY

The mammalian mitochondrial electron transport chain catalyzes the oxidation of NADH at pH 8.0 and pH 6.5, and the oxidation of NADPH at pH 6.5. The pH-dependencies of the rate of steady-state oxidation of NADPH and NADH by Complex I as well as by its flavoprotein fraction have been extensively studied by the laboratory of Hatefi. One model to explain these pH-dependent oxidations was proposed by Bakker and Albracht (Biochim. Biophys. Acta 850 (1986) 413-422 and 423-428, modified by Van Belzen and Albracht (Biochim. Biophys Acta 974 (1989) 311-320), which predicts that Complex I is a heterodimer with promoter B, containing FMN and Fe-S clusters 1-4 in stiochiometric amounts, catalyzing NADH oxidation at pH 8, and Protomer A, containing FMN and Fe-S clusters 2, 4, catalyzing NAD(P)H oxidation at pH 6.5. A pH-dependent transfer of electrons from protomer A Fe-S clusters 2, 4 to protomer B Fe-S clusters 2, 4 is an obligate step in the oxidation of NAD(P)H at low pH. Strict interpretation of this model allows for only three types of inhibitor: one which inhibits all three oxidase activities (type 1); one which inhibits NADH oxidase, pH 8.0 (type 4) and a third which inhibits NAD(P)H oxidase, pH 6.5 (type 5). Another possibility is that there are three separate pathways of oxidation of NAD(P)H, which would allow for a total of seven different types of inhibitor, e.g., the three types above plus type 2 inhibiting NADH oxidase pH 8.0 and pH 6.5; type 3 inhibiting NADH oxidase pH 8.0, and NADPH oxidase pH 6.5; type 6 inhibiting NADH oxidase pH 6.5; and type 7 inhibiting NADPH oxidase pH 6.5. Using a series of thirteen inhibitors of Complex I activity and the chemical modification reagent ethoxyformic anhydride (EFA), four different inhibitor types were found: seven inhibitors of type 1, four inhibitors of type 2, one inhibitor of type 3 and one inhibitor of type 4. Treatment of submitochondrial particles (SMP) with EFA abolished NADH-dependent reduction of coenzyme Q at both pH 8.0 and 6.5, while inhibiting NADPH-dependent reduction of coenzyme Q at pH 6.5 by only 30%. These results do not support the heterodimer model of Complex I electron transport of Bakker and Albracht, but do support three separate electron flow pathways through complex 1 from reduced pyridine nucleotides to coenzyme Q. A new model of electron flow through Complex I based on these finding is proposed.
Synthesis of Silicon-Containing Unsaturated Polymers by Hydrosilylation Reactions. Photophysical Studies

Silicon-containing unsaturated polymers have been synthesized using the Pt(acac)2-catalyzed photoactivated hydrosilylation of alkynes. These polymers fluoresce at 360 nm when excited at 270 nm due ...
Age, growth and hatch dates of ingressing larvae and surviving juveniles of Atlantic menhaden Brevoortia tyrannus

Ages, growth and hatch dates of ingressing Brevoortia tyrannus larvae were determined in a 3 year sampling survey at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, U.S.A. To determine if otolith-aged cohorts had variable relative survival, hatch dates of summer-caught young-of-the-year (YOY) juveniles collected throughout the Chesapeake Bay were compared with hatch dates of ingressing larvae. Modal total length of ingressing larvae was similar among years: 28 mm in 2005-2006 and 2007-2008, and 30 mm in 2006-2007. Ages of ingressing larvae ranged from 9 to 96 days post hatch (dph); mean ages were similar among years, but significantly older in 2006-2007 (50 dph) than in 2005-2006 (44 dph) and 2007-2008 (46 dph). Larval growth rates differed among years. Earliest growth, when larvae were offshore (0-20 dph), was faster in 2006-2007 (0·62 mm day(-1)), than in 2005-2006 and 2007-2008 (0·55 mm day(-1) in these years). Subsequently, from 30 to 80 dph, growth was slowest in 2006-2007. Hatch dates of ingressing larvae occurred from September to March and 90% (2007-2008) to 98% (2006-2007) had hatched prior to 31 December. In contrast, most surviving YOY juvenile B. tyrannus had hatched in January to February, suggesting selective mortality of early-hatched individuals, apparently during the overwinter, larval to juvenile transition period.
Evidence of Temporal Variation of Titan Atmospheric Density in 2005-2013

One major science objective of the Cassini mission is an investigation of Titan's atmosphere constituent abundances. Titan's atmospheric density is of interest not only to planetary scientists but also to mission design and mission control engineers. Knowledge of the dependency of Titan's atmospheric density with altitude is important because any unexpectedly high atmospheric density has the potential to tumble the spacecraft during a flyby. During low-altitude Titan flyby, thrusters are fired to counter the torque imparted on the spacecraft due to the Titan atmosphere. The denser the Titan's atmosphere is, the higher are the duty cycles of the thruster firings. Therefore thruster firing telemetry data could be used to estimate the atmospheric torque imparted on the spacecraft. Since the atmospheric torque imparted on the spacecraft is related to the Titan's atmospheric density, atmospheric densities are estimated accordingly. In 2005-2013, forty-three low-altitude Titan flybys were executed. The closest approach altitudes of these Titan flybys ranged from 878 to 1,074.8 km. Our density results are also compared with those reported by other investigation teams: Voyager-1 (in November 1980) and the Huygens Atmospheric Structure Instrument, HASI (in January 2005). From our results, we observe a temporal variation of the Titan atmospheric density in 2005-2013. The observed temporal variation is significant and it isn't due to the estimation uncertainty (5.8%, 1 sigma) of the density estimation methodology. Factors that contributed to this temporal variation have been conjectured but are largely unknown. The observed temporal variation will require synergetic analysis with measurements made by other Cassini science instruments and future years of laboratory and modeling efforts to solve. The estimated atmospheric density results are given in this paper help scientists to better understand and model the density structure of the Titan atmosphere.
Eliminating Glugea gasti (Protozoa : Microsporidia) from genetic stocks of the boll weevil.

We eliminated the microsporidian Glugea gasti McLaughlin from genetic stocks of the boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis Boheman, capitalizing on the fact that the disease is not transmitted by males, although the gonads are infected. We crossed diseased, mutant males with healthy, wild-type females and recovered the healthy mutants in the F2 generation. Techniques designed to eliminate the disease and to insure recovery of healthy mutants in the F2 generation were superimposed on the genetic procedure. The method is applicable to diseases of other insects in which one sex does not transmit the disease during mating.
New Strategies in Acute Myelogenous Leukemia: Leukemogenesis and Personalized Medicine

Recent advances in molecular technology have unraveled the complexity of leukemogenesis and provided the opportunity to design more personalized and pathophysiology-targeted therapeutic strategies. Despite the use of intensive chemotherapy, relapse remains the most common cause for therapeutic failure in acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). The interactions between leukemia stem cells (LSC) and marrow microenvironment appear to be critical in promoting therapeutic resistance through progressive acquisition of genetic and epigenetic changes within leukemia cells and immune evasion, resulting in leukemia cell survival. With advances in genomic sequencing efforts, epigenetic and phenotypic characterization, personalized therapeutic strategies aimed at critical leukemia survival mechanisms may be feasible in the near future. Here, we review select novel approaches to therapy of AML such as targeting LSC, altering leukemia/marrow microenvironment interactions, inhibiting DNA repair or cell cycle checkpoints, and augmenting immune-based anti-leukemia activity.
Tectonic geomorphology of the Ash Hill fault, Panamint Valley, California

Panamint Valley, in eastern California, is an extensional basin currently bounded by active, dextral-normal oblique-slip faults. There is considerable debate over the tectonic and topographic evolution of the valley. The least-studied structure, the Ash Hill fault, runs for some 50 km along the valley’s western edge, and active strands of the fault continue south into the neighbouring Slate Range. Vertical displacement on the fault is valley-side up, creating topography that conflicts with the gross morphology of the valley itself. We use this topography, along with kinematic and geological markers, to constrain the Quaternary slip rate and orientation of the Ash Hill fault. The fault offsets all but the active channel deposits in the valley, and slickenlines indicate a strike-slip to dip-slip ratio of 3.5:1. An offset volcanic unit dated at 4 Ma provides a minimum slip rate of 0.3±0.1 mm yr−1, and a long-term strike-slip to dip-slip ratio of 5.2:1. Slip on the fault has warped a palaeolake shoreline within the valley. Simple elastic dislocation modelling of the vertical deformation of the shoreline suggests total fault slip of ≈60 m, valley-side up. The shoreline probably dates to 120–150 ka, implying a late Quaternary slip rate of 0.4–0.5 mm yr−1. We suggest two possible mechanisms for the apparently anomalous slip behaviour of the Ash Hill fault. The fault may be a listric structure related to the proposed low-angle fault underlying Panamint Valley. Alternatively, the Ash Hill fault is a high-angle fault, implying that the valley is currently bounded by high-angle dextral-slip faults. Lack of detailed subsurface information precludes any knowledge of the true relationships between the presently active faults.
Differentiating agents and the treatment of prostate cancer: Vitamin D3 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma ligands.

Abstract Much interest has developed recently in the use of differentiating agents in the management of solid tumors, specifically prostate cancer. Two classes of drugs that have shown particularly intriguing results are vitamin D 3 and its analogs and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) ligands. Both the vitamin D 3 receptor and the PPARs are members of the nuclear receptor superfamily of ligand-dependent transcription factors and both are widely expressed by prostate cancer cells. This article reviews in detail the preclinical and clinical data available supporting the use of these agents in the treatment of prostate cancer. The proposed mechanisms of action of these agents and potential future therapeutic roles for these drugs are discussed as well.
A Qualitative Study of Web-Based Knowledge Communities: Examining Success Factors

Web-based knowledge communities (WKCs) have become prevalent in recent years for individuals with similar interests to collectively engage in knowledge acquisition and exchange in a global context. The growing popularity of WKCs and their fast penetration into almost all aspects of life call for more research on this important area. In this study, we explore and examine success factors of WKCs. To accomplish this research objective, we conducted a qualitative study to uncover a list of success factors that would affect the success of WKCs. Through open and axial data coding techniques using a grounded theory approach, we identified four main success factors: information quality, system quality, community governance, and pro-sharing norms. We further categorized dimensions of information quality, system quality, and community governance. Based on the results, we proposed a conceptual framework to examine WKC success. The implications are also discussed.
Metal-activated C-peptide facilitates glucose clearance and the release of a nitric oxide stimulus via the GLUT1 transporter.

Proinsulin C-peptide has been implicated in reducing complications associated with diabetes and also in improving blood flow. We hypothesised that incubation of erythrocytes with C-peptide would improve the ability of these cells to release ATP, a stimulus for nitric oxide production. Erythrocytes obtained from rabbits (n = 11) and both healthy and type 2 diabetic humans (n = 7) were incubated with C-peptide in the absence and presence of Fe2+ and Cr3+, and the resulting ATP release was measured via chemiluminescence. This release was also measured in the presence and absence of phloretin, an inhibitor of GLUT1, and also of mannose, a glycolysis inhibitor. To determine glucose transport, 14C-labelled glucose was added to erythrocytes in the presence and absence of the C-peptide–metal complex and the aforementioned inhibitors. The release of ATP from the erythrocytes of patients with diabetes increased from 64 ± 13 to 260 ± 39 nmol/l upon incubation of the cells in C-peptide. The C-peptide activity was dependent upon binding to Fe2+, which was extended upon binding to Cr3+. The increase in ATP release from the erythrocytes is due to metal-activated C-peptide stimulation of glucose transfer into the erythrocytes via the GLUT1 transporter. In the presence of C-peptide complexed to Cr3+, the amount of glucose transferred into the erythrocyte increased by 31%. When complexed to Fe2+ or Cr3+, C-peptide has the ability to promote ATP release from erythrocytes. This release is due to an increase in glucose transport through GLUT1.
Shape considerations in spatial optimization

Abstract The land allocation problem is one of selecting, from a set of available land units or parcels, a subset of units displaying certain desirable characteristics or having special morphology. Several discrete programming models are presented for the problem of allocating an area of land for development when the shape of the resulting land area is a primary concern. The solution procedure is shown to be satisfactory for small to medium sized problems and can accommodate simple (rectangular) shapes.
LONG-TERM AND SHORT-TERM CAUSAL RELATIONS BETWEEN DIVIDENDS AND STOCK PRICES: A TEST OF LINTNER'S DIVIDEND MODEL AND THE PRESENT VALUE MODEL OF STOCK PRICES

In this paper we test the joint implications for the intertemporal behavior of stock prices and dividends expressed in the Lintner dividend model and the present value model of stock prices. We use macro data corresponding to quarterly S&P 500 index prices and dividends for January 1930–December 1990. The methodology used is the error correction model (ECM), which allows testing for long-term and short-term relations between the two variables. Results from the ECM indicate that a long-term equilibrium relation exists between dividends and stock prices, and that an error correction mechanism is at work when a disequilibrium exits between the two variables. Stock prices and dividends also influence each other in the short term. Finally, the results show that dividends and stock prices exhibit a contemporaneous causal relation.
Mitochondrial damage and radiation carcinogenesis

Although radiation is a well-established human carcinogen, the mechanism of how radiation induces cancer is not clear. High linear energy transfer (LET) particles such as those used in radiotherapy and found in the natural radiation environment in space are potent clastogens that induce chromosomal breakages and present a potential mechanism for the loss of tumor suppressor genes. Indeed, using an immortalized human bronchial epithelial cell line, we show previously that high LET radiation, including alpha and HZE particles, induces a stepwise neoplastic transformation of these cells and a consistent downregulation of the tumor suppressor TGFBI gene. Furthermore, there is recent evidence that targeted cytoplasmic irradiation induces changes in mitochondrial morphology. Mitochondria are the energy center of a cell and normal mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles that move along microtubules or microfilaments and continuously fuse and divide in healthy cells. A balance between mitochondrial fusion and fission is essential to maintain normal mitochondrial function. In contrast, irradiated cells show shortened and fragmented mitochondria together with a reduction in mitochondrial functions. These included reduced cytochrome C-oxidase as well as succinate dehydrogenase activities when compared with non-irradiated controls, suggestive of reduced respiratory metabolism. Furthermore, irradiated airway epithelial cells showed an increase in mitochondrial superoxide production that was quenched by the radical scavenger, dimethyl sulfoxide. This acute mitochondrial response caused by cytoplasmic irradiation may result in the release of several stress mediators, which are necessary for mitochondria to preserve cellular homeostasis. The observation that progeny of mammalian cells that are irradiation through the cytoplasm show evidence of genomic instability highlights the functional role of mitochondrial damage in radiation carcinogenesis.
Internal ribosomal entry site scanning of the poliovirus polyprotein: implications for proteolytic processing.

Abstract Based on previous studies of dicistronic polioviruses carrying two internal ribosomal entry sites (IRESes), we performed a novel experiment of IRES scanning through a polypeptide by inserting sequentially the IRES of encephalomyocarditis virus into the open reading frame (ORF) of the poliovirus polyprotein at selected 3C pro -specific Q*G cleavage sites. No cytopathic effects were observed after transfection of HeLa cells with any of the dicistronic constructs, and no virus was recovered. In vitro translation of the dicistronic RNA transcripts in HeLa cell-free extracts revealed that multiple defects in the processing of the P2–P3 domain of the polyprotein is the primary reason for the lethal phenotypes. Surprisingly, the interruption of 3C pro -catalyzed cleavages downstream of 2C interfered with the 2A pro -catalyzed, primary cleavage between P1 and P2. In contrast, insertion of a foreign coding sequence (V3 loop of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 gp120) into the ORF of the polyprotein at the 2C–3A junction yielded a viable virus that appeared to be genetically stable over several passages. The results of these experiments, which are generally applicable to analyses of viral polyproteins or multidomain polypeptides, suggest that processing of the P2–P3 domain by 3C–3CD pro is rapid and accurate only in the context of the unperturbed P2-P3 precursor; this is consistent with cleavages occurring in cis. Moreover, an intact 2C–3A precursor is not required for viral proliferation.
Cognition, functional capacity, and self-reported disability in women with posttraumatic stress disorder: Examining the convergence of performance-based measures and self-reports

Abstract Individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experience cognitive impairments and disability in everyday activities. In other neuropsychiatric disorders, impairments in cognition and functional capacity (i.e., the ability to perform everyday tasks) are associated with impairments in real-world functioning, independent of symptom severity. To date, no studies of functional capacity have been conducted in PTSD. Seventy-three women with moderate to severe PTSD underwent assessment with measures of cognition (MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery: MCCB), functional capacity (UCSD Performance-Based Skills Assessment-Brief: UPSA-B), PTSD (Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale and PTSD Symptom Scale–Self-report (PSS-SR)), and depression (Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale). Patients also reported their subjective level of disability (Sheehan Disability Scale). Over-reporting of symptom severity was assessed using six validity items embedded within the PSS-SR. Results indicated that on average PTSD patients manifested mild impairments on the functional capacity measure, performing about 1/3 standard deviation below healthy norms, and similar performance on the MCCB. Both clinician-rated and self-rated PTSD symptom severity correlated with self-reported disability but not with functional capacity. Self-reported disability did not correlate with functional capacity or cognition. Greater self-reported disability, depression, and PTSD symptoms all correlated with higher scores on the PSS-SR validity scale. The divergence between objective and subjective measures of disability suggests that individuals' distress, as indexed by symptom validity measures, may be impacting self-reports of disability. Future studies of disability should incorporate objective measures in order to obtain a broad perspective on functioning.
In situ transmission electron microscopy study of ordering in a splat-cooled Ni-20 at.% Mo alloy

Abstract Using transmission electron microscopy, the microstructure of splat-cooled (through hammer and anvil) Ni-20 at.% Mo specimens has been examined for the as-cooled condition and for heated samples. In the as-cooled condition, the structure consisted of columnar grains with a cell structure of about 0.2nm. The cooling rate was estimated to be about 106 K/s; but even for this rapid cooling, weak short-range order (SRO) was present. Specimens were step-heated in situ in the transmission electron microscope to a specific temperature, held for 5 minutes, cooled to 25 °C for observation, then reheated to a higher temperature, and the process repeated for increasingly higher temperatures. At 500 °C, the intensity of the SRO diffraction spots increased. At 665 °C, these SRO spots split into the long-range order (LRO) positions. At 765 °C, LRO was established with a fine (about 0.05 μm) domain structure. As the heating temperature increased, the cell structure became weak and disappeared at about 765 °C.
Public sector use of the Delphi technique

Abstract The Delphi Technique is gaining extensive use as a multipurpose tool by government planners and policy makers. This paper begins by briefly discussing the historical development of Delphi and some of its advantages and disadvantages. A considerable number of Delphis conducted in the public sector for the purposes of forecasting, communication, budgeting, and goal setting are then reviewed. Additionally, three prior reviews of Delphi use in the field of education are discussed. In reviewing these studies every attempt was made to detail the research intentions, special features and modifications, cautions, and benefits of each study. These characteristics are provided in tabular form in the summary section as a ready reference for the potential Delphi user. It is recommended that one should take full advantage of what has been learned from earlier research before undertaking a new Delphi.
Size-dependent plasticity and fracture of a metallic glass in compression

A specimen size effect related to elastic spring-back and strain softening is reported on the deformation and fracture behavior of bulk metallic glass (BMG). Unlike in large specimens where unstable shear band propagation usually leads to catastrophic fracture, in small specimens yielding is followed by stable shear band propagation and extensive plastic deformation. Additionally, the fracture surfaces of the small specimens are smooth without the characteristic vein patterns seen in large specimens. The present results demonstrate that it is important to take specimen size into account when interpreting plasticity and fracture of BMGs, especially when considering the effects of composition on ductility.
Purification and characterization of encystment-induced glucosamine 6-phosphate isomerase in Giardia.

Giardia intestinalis encystment results in the incorporation of galactosamine (GalN) (a cyst- wall specific sugar) into outer cyst wall filaments [1,2]. GalN is synthesized during encystment from endogenous glucose by an inducible enzyme pathway [3] and the first reaction unique to GalN synthesis is the conversion of fructose-6-phosphate (F6P) to glucosamine 6-phosphate (G1cN6P) [4,5].
New directions for 2006.

The Pharmacogenomics Journal is now in its sixth year. Many changes are occurring in our field, which are reflected in the journal, both in terms of content and format.
Development Of An Effective Black Layer For Electroluminescent (EL) Displays

A high contrast emitter using AC thin film electroluminescence has been developed in which an absorbing black backing is in optical contact with the transparent emitter. The unique features of this development over the previous state of the art is preservation of the steep brightness-voltage characteristics such as required for matrix addressed displays and provision for a pinhole open circuit failure mechanism so that long life emitters can be achieved.