cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Association of hospital volume with conditional 90-day mortality after cystectomy: an analysis of the National Cancer Data Base.

Objective To examine the association of hospital volume and 90-day mortality after cystectomy, conditional on survival for 30 days. Patients and Methods The National Cancer Data Base was used to evaluate 30- and 90-day mortality for 35 055 patients who underwent cystectomy for bladder cancer at one of 1118 hospitals. Patient data were aggregated into hospital volume categories based on the mean annual number of procedures (low-volume hospital: <10 procedures; intermediate-volume hospital: 10–19 procedures; high-volume hospital: ≥20 procedures). Associations between mortality and clinical, demographic and hospital characteristics were analysed using hierarchical logistic regression models. To assess the association between hospital volume and 90-day mortality independently of shorter-term mortality, 90-day mortality conditional on 30-day survival was assessed in the multivariate modelling. Results Unadjusted 30- and 90-day mortality rates were 2.7 and 7.2% overall, 1.9 and 5.7% among high-volume hospitals, and 3.2 and 8.0% among low-volume hospitals, respectively. Compared with high-volume hospitals, the adjusted risks among low-volume hospitals (odds ratio [95% CI]) of 30- and 90-day mortality, conditional on having survived for 30 days, from the hierarchical models were 1.5 (1.3–1.9), and 1.2 (1.0–1.4), respectively. Conclusions A low hospital volume was associated with greater 30- and 90-day mortality. These data support the need for further research to better understand the relatively high mortality rates seen between 30 and 90 days, which are high and less variable across hospital volume strata. The stronger association between volume and 30-day mortality suggests that quality-reporting efforts should focus on shorter-term outcomes.
Counting CSP solutions using generalized XOR constraints

We present a general framework for determining the number of solutions of constraint satisfaction problems (CSPs) with a high precision. Our first strategy uses additional binary variables for the CSP, and applies an XOR or parity constraint based method introduced previously for Boolean satisfiability (SAT) problems. In the CSP framework, in addition to the naive individual filtering of XOR constraints used in SAT, we are able to apply a global domain filtering algorithm by viewing these constraints as a collection of linear equalities over the field of two elements. Our most promising strategy extends this approach further to larger domains, and applies the so-called generalized XOR constraints directly to CSP variables. This allows us to reap the benefits of the compact and structured representation that CSPs offer. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our counting framework through experimental comparisons with the solution enumeration approach (which, we believe, is the current best generic solution counting method for CSPs), and with solution counting in the context of SAT and integer programming.
Characterization of a plasmid from the ruminal bacterium Selenomonas ruminantium.

A 4.8-kilobase-pair plasmid was isolated from the ruminal bacterium selenomonas ruminantium HD4 by using a sodium carbonate-EDTA washing buffer to improve cell lysis (R.G. Dean, S.A. Martin, and C. Carver, Lett. Appl. Microbiol. 8:45-48, 1989). This plasmid, designated pSR1, appears to be quite stable. No evidence of plasmid DNA was detected in S. ruminantium D or GA192. All three strains were tested for antibiotic resistance, and all were kanamycin resistant (MIC, 25 to 50 micrograms/ml). Only strain D was tetracycline resistant (MIC, 25 micrograms/ml), and all strains were sensitive to ampicillin (MIC, 1 microgram/ml). pSR1 was cloned into pBR322, and a map of pSR1 was constructed by using HindIII, ClAI, BamHI, and PvuII. Although ClaI, BamHI, ScaI, and EcoRV digested recombined plasmid isolated from Escherichia coli, these restriction endonucleases were not effective in digesting plasmid isolated directly from S. ruminantium HD4.
Comparative analysis of lipopolysaccharides of pathogenic and intermediately pathogenic Leptospira species.

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are complex, amphipathic biomolecules that constitute the major surface component of Gram-negative bacteria. Leptospira, unlike other human-pathogenic spirochetes, produce LPS, which is fundamental to the taxonomy of the genus, involved in host-adaption and also the target of diagnostic antibodies. Despite its significance, little is known of Leptospira LPS composition and carbohydrate structure among different serovars. LPS from Leptospira interrogans serovar Copenhageni strain L1-130, a pathogenic species, and L. licerasiae serovar Varillal strain VAR 010, an intermediately pathogenic species, were studied. LPS prepared from aqueous and phenol phases were analyzed separately. L. interrogans serovar Copenhageni has additional sugars not found in L. licerasiae serovar Varillal, including fucose (2.7 %), a high amount of GlcNAc (12.3 %), and two different types of dideoxy HexNAc. SDS-PAGE indicated that L. interrogans serovar Copenhageni LPS had a far higher molecular weight and complexity than that of L. licerasiae serovar Varillal. Chemical composition showed that L. interrogans serovar Copenhageni LPS has an extended O-antigenic polysaccharide consisting of sugars, not present in L. licerasiae serovar Varillal. Arabinose, xylose, mannose, galactose and L-glycero-D-mannoheptose were detected in both the species. Fatty acid analysis by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) showed the presence of hydroxypalmitate (3-OH-C16:0) only in L. interrogans serovar Copenhageni. Negative staining electron microscopic examination of LPS showed different filamentous morphologies in L. interrogans serovar Copenhageni vs. L. licerasiae serovar Varillal. This comparative biochemical analysis of pathogenic and intermediately pathogenic Leptospira LPS reveals important carbohydrate and lipid differences that underlie future work in understanding the mechanisms of host-adaptation, pathogenicity and vaccine development in leptospirosis.
Facilitation of reform based teacher identity development in pre-service teachers using post-activity reflection debriefs

An exploratory case study approach was used to study twenty pre-service secondary science teachers to learn: What impact does post-activity reflection debriefs have on teacher identity development as a reform-minded science teacher? Analysis of debrief video and audio recordings revealed that debriefs provide opportunities for pre-service teachers to wrestle with issues related to practice and the struggle to enact the reform-based practices that they are learning about and believe they should implement.
Coulomb scattering of an electron by a monopole

The Coulomb scattering of an electron by a magnetic monopole is analyzed using a lowest-order quantum perturbation approximation suggested by a two-potential Lagrangian form for classical electromagnetism, generalized through the use of spacetime algebra to include magnetic monopoles. Good agreement with existing conventional analyses of this problem is demonstrated.
Switched-mode systems: gradient-descent algorithms with Armijo step sizes

This paper concerns optimal mode-scheduling in autonomous switched-mode hybrid dynamical systems, where the objective is to minimize a cost-performance functional defined on the state trajectory as a function of the schedule of modes. The controlled variable, namely the modes' schedule, consists of the sequence of modes and the switchover times between them. We propose a gradient-descent algorithm that adjusts a given mode-schedule by changing multiple modes over time-sets of positive Lebesgue measures, thereby avoiding the inefficiencies inherent in existing techniques that change the modes one at a time. The algorithm is based on steepest descent with Armijo step sizes along Gâteaux differentials of the performance functional with respect to schedule-variations, which yields effective descent at each iteration. Since the space of mode-schedules is infinite dimensional and incomplete, the algorithm's convergence is proved in the sense of Polak's framework of optimality functions and minimizing sequences. Simulation results are presented, and possible extensions to problems with dwell-time lower-bound constraints are discussed.
Alterations of protein 4.1 family members in ependymomas: a study of 84 cases

Ependymomas are common pediatric and adult CNS malignancies with a wide biologic spectrum that is often hard to predict using classic prognostic variables. The molecular pathogenesis is also poorly understood and few reproducible genetic alterations have been identified. The most common genetic alteration has been the loss of the Protein 4.1 family member, NF2, predominantly in spinal ependymomas. In contrast, a pilot study suggested that 4.1B deletions might be more common in intracranial ependymomas. These findings prompted us to study Protein 4.1 family members (NF2, 4.1B, 4.1R, 4.1G) in a larger cohort of 84 ependymomas (51 intracranial and 33 spinal; 11 WHO grade I, 43 grade II, 30 grade III). Fluorescence in situ hybridization was performed using NF2, 4.1B, 4.1R and 4.1G probes and immunohistochemical staining was performed in a subset using merlin, Protein 4.1B and Protein 4.1R antibodies. Additionally, frozen tissue from nine ependymomas (four intracranial and five spinal) was obtained for Western blot analysis for merlin, 4.1B and 4.1R expression. The majority of cases harbored one or more detectable genetic alterations, but we found that 4.1B gene deletions and 4.1R loss of expression were statistically more common in the pediatric vs adult, intracranial vs spinal, and grade III vs grade I/II subsets (P-values of 0.038 to <0.001). Also, 4.1G deletions were seen in 11/27 (41%) patients who either died of disease or had residual/recurrent tumor vs 5/41 patients with no evidence of disease at last follow-up (P=0.009). We conclude that alterations of Protein 4.1 family members are common in ependymal tumors and that specific alterations are associated with distinct clinicopathologic subsets.
Antarctic atmospheric temperature trend patterns from satellite observations

[1] Tropospheric temperatures in the Antarctic are retrieved by linearly combining satellite-borne Microwave Sounding Unit (MSU) channels 2 and 4 observations. We show good agreement between satellite-inferred temperature trends and radiosonde observations. It is illustrated that the Antarctic troposphere has cooled in the summer and fall seasons since 1979, in agreement with Thompson and Solomon (2002). It is shown that significant tropospheric warming prevails during Antarctic winters and springs, but we also find significant winter cooling over half of East Antarctica. We find the largest winter tropospheric warming of about 0.6 K/decade for 1979–2005 between 120°W and 180°W. Homogeneous winter tropospheric warming over Antarctica from the ERA-40 reanalysis is not supported by the MSU observations. While MSU stratospheric temperatures exhibit the expected large cooling during the spring and summer seasons, we also find large stratospheric warming over half the southern hemisphere high latitudes in the winter and spring seasons.
Bundling sport events with the host destination

Abstract An emerging challenge in sport event tourism is to incorporate events more strategically into the host destination's overall mix of tourism products and services. An effective means is to bundle event elements with the host destination's attractions using a mixed bundling strategy. Appropriate event elements include activities that support the subculture of the sport, as well as complementary cultural events. Appropriate destination attractions include sightseeing, visits to destination‐specific attractions, opportunities to shop, and activities consistent with the values or interests of the sport subculture. The potential for bundling sport event elements with the host destination's attractions is illustrated for eight bundle components and two destination features at the Gold Coast Marathon. Conjoint analysis followed by clustering identified four distinct market segments among a sample of 277 distance runners from two large domestic source markets. On the basis of cluster profiles, the segment...
Depression, Stigma, and Suicidal Ideation in Medical Students

Context There is a concerning prevalence of depression and suicidal ideation among medical students, a group that may experience poor mental health care due to stigmatization. Objective To characterize the perceptions of depressed and nondepressed medical students regarding stigma associated with depression. Design, Setting, and Participants Cross-sectional Web-based survey conducted in September-November 2009 among all students enrolled at the University of Michigan Medical School (N = 769). Main Outcome Measures Prevalence of self-reported moderate to severe depression and suicidal ideation and the association of stigma perceptions with clinical and demographic variables. Results Survey response rate was 65.7% (505 of 769). Prevalence of moderate to severe depression was 14.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 11.3%-17.3%). Women were more likely than men to have moderate to severe depression (18.0% vs 9.0%; 95% CI for difference, −14.8% to −3.1%; P = .001). Third- and fourth-year students were more likely than first- and second-year students to report suicidal ideation (7.9% vs 1.4%; 95% CI for difference, 2.7%-10.3%; P = .001). Students with moderate to severe depression, compared with no to minimal depression, more frequently agreed that “if I were depressed, fellow medical students would respect my opinions less” (56.0% vs 23.7%; 95% CI for difference, 17.3%-47.3%; P Conclusions Depressed medical students more frequently endorsed several depression stigma attitudes than nondepressed students. Stigma perceptions also differed by sex and class year.
Islamic literature: Problems in collection development

Abstract This article highlights two aspects of the development of collections of Islamic literature: the conceptual problem, that is, the nature of an Islamic collection, and practical problems of selection and acquisition. A definition of Islamic literature is provided, then the question is posed: why is the Islamic collection to be developed? The main components of Islamic literature are discussed. Problems of collection development are examined in terms of what to select, how to acquire it, and how to process the material. Solutions to some of these problems and recommended procedures, based on long experience in research libraries, are offered.
4/5D Integrated Mapping for Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

The majority of AF ablative cases are guided by 2D fluoroscopy with an additional dimensionality added by circular lasso-type catheters. While this may be sufficient for simple pulmonary vein isolation, recurrence rates in paroxysmal patients remain as high as 20–30%. Many patients have extensive underlying disease and more chronic atrial fibrillation not amenable to simple pulmonary vein isolation. Four/five dimensional imaging provides the venue for the chronicling of physiology (such as CAFE and ganglion plexus activity) within the context of 3 spatial dimensions. In addition, real-time registration may be of even greater importance in guiding the ablation of more complicated atrial fibrillation types. This may be even more important, as more sophisticated energy sources are developed, including those to be delivered from outside of the body. Studies have already demonstrated an improvement in procedure times with a mapped approach, while others demonstrate a reduction in fluoroscopic exposure. The use of 4/5D imaging is also critically important to realize the full potential of robotics, which can be programmed to deal with complicated structures. The same is true in the full integration of contact force sensing for ablative intervention. This report will chronicle experience to date with 3/4D mapping systems, as well as the progression in their application for contact sensing, complex electrogram-based ablation, robotic interventions, and for guiding extracorporeal energy deliveries.
A Comparison of the Immune Performance of a 1991 Commercial Broiler with a 1957 Randombred Strain When Fed “Typical” 1957 And 1991 Broiler Diets

The general objective of the present study was to assess the contribution that changes in genetic selection and dietary regimen have made on the immune performance of broilers. Chicks were hatched from 1991 and 1957 strains and placed on diets thought to be typical of those fed during 1957 and 1991. Immune responses were measured as total, IgM, and IgG antibody production, macrophage, and natural killer (NK) cell functions. Significant differences were observed between strains in antibody production. For example, 1957 males fed 1957 diets had the highest total (P < .0001), IgM (P < .0016), and IgG (P < .015) anti-sheep red blood cell antibodies as compared with all other strain-diet-sex groups. Both strains behaved similarly in terms of inflammatory macrophage recruitment, substrate adherence potential, and in the phagocytosis of sheep red blood cells. A greater percentage of the 1991 strain birds exhibited NK cell activity than all other groups. These studies suggest that genetic selection towards enhanced performance traits has negatively influenced the adaptive arm of the immune system (antibody production) with little or no effect on the nonadaptive components (macrophage and NK functions).
Cloning and thyroid hormone regulation of albumin mRNA in Rana catesbeiana tadpole liver.

Thyroid hormones are responsible for the specific biochemical and structural changes that occur during amphibian metamorphosis. In this study we screened a series of cDNAs from a. library constructed from T4-treated premetamorphic tadpole liver poly(A)+ RNA in order to identify a clone that could be used to study the influence of T3 on liver-specific gene expression during Rana catesbeiana metamorphosis. The cDNA from one clone exhibited a greater degree of hybridization to liver RNA from thyroid hormone-treated tadpoles than untreated tadpoles and no hybridization to RNA from tail fins of tadpoles of either group. On Northern blots, the mRNA to which the cDNA hybridized was 2.3 kilobases in size. The pattern of hybridization to genomic DNA digested by various restriction enzymes was consistent with the presence of a single gene. Using slot blot analysis we found that the mRNA levels first rose above basal levels only after 5 days of immersion of tadpoles in 12.5 μ9/liter T3. The mRNA levels increased app...
"Just be There for Them": Perceptions of Fathering Among Single, Low-Income Men

Using an interpretive life course perspective, we explore how men define their role as fathers based on experiences with their own fathers in the past. Based on qualitative interview data collected from thirty-six low-income fathers, we consider men’s relationships with their own fathers in terms of residence and affective evaluations. Our investigation reveals how men negotiate the demands of fatherhood in light of economic constraints and the absence of marriage, focusing on fathering role models and men’s perceptions of fathering roles. Overall, men not close to their fathers defined fathering primarily in terms of the breadwinner role as opposed to the nurturing role, which was more apparent in the narratives of men close to their fathers.
Photoelectron branching ratios and angular distributions for the valence levels of SF/sub 6/ in the range 16< or =h. nu. < or =30 eV

Photoelectron branching ratios and angular distributions have been measured for the six outermost levels of S${\mathrm{F}}_{6}$ in the range $16\ensuremath{\le}h\ensuremath{\nu}\ensuremath{\le}30$ eV with the use of synchrotron radiation. These results are discussed in the framework of the large variety of experimental and theoretical studies of S${\mathrm{F}}_{6}$ with the dual objective of resolving the long-standing problem of the ordering of the valence shells and of gaining some insight into the role of shape-resonant behavior in the low-energy photoionization continua of S${\mathrm{F}}_{6}$. These objectives are met with partial success in that we tentatively conclude the valence configuration $5{a}_{1g}^{2}4{t}_{1u}^{6}1{t}_{2g}^{6}3{e}_{g}^{4}(1{t}_{2u}^{6}+5{t}_{1u}^{6})1{t}_{1g}^{6}^{1}A_{1g}$ is most consistent with the available body of evidence and that it is plausible to invoke channel interaction near the strong resonant feature at $h\ensuremath{\nu}\ensuremath{\sim}23\ensuremath{-}24$ eV to help account for some of the apparently contradictory evidence. Further experimental and theoretical work is suggested to clarify these issues.
Structure in relation to behavior of mutant hemoglobins in citrate agar electrophoresis.

The comparative mobilities, in citrate agar electrophoresis, of 91 mutant hemoglobins are presented in relation to their molecular structure and in some cases, to their mobilities in other types of electrophoresis. More than a third of the a chain mutants (11 of the 27 examined) and half of the β chain mutants (29 of 55) differ to some extent from Hb A. The helical location of the substituted residue is an important determinant of hemoglobin mobility. which is also affected by a complex interplay of other factors. When the data are combined with those of several other types of electrophoresis, they often provide presumptive (or in some cases highly specific) identifications of mutant hemoglobins and hemoglobinopathies.
Central neuronal plasticity, low back pain and spinal manipulative therapy.

Abstract Objective Recent experimental evidence demonstrating neuronal/synaptic plasticity and, in particular, long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) in spinal neurons is reviewed. The implications of these studies for possible mechanistic explanations of low back pain and its remediation by spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) are explored. Brief descriptions of LTP and LTD and elaboration of the key roles of calcium, glutamate, and glutamate receptors in LTP/LTD are provided as separate appendices. Data Sources The referenced articles regarding LTP/LTD in spinal cord neurons and neuronal plasticity, in general, were identified from accumulated review of the neuroscience literature. Publications cited from chiropractic sources relevant to central neuronal plasticity and LTP/LTD were identified using the Index to Chiropractic Literature and informal review. Study Selection Experimental studies examining LTP/LTD mechanisms in spinal neurons and more general references useful as an introduction to central neuronal plasticity and LTP/LTD are included. Data Extraction Experimental evidence presented in this review has been previously published and illustrates neuronal plasticity from an animal model for low back pain. Data Synthesis Both in vitro and in vivo evidence identifying LTP and LTD in dorsal horn nociceptive neurons is reviewed. Of special interest are studies showing LTP in response to intense noxious stimulation and reports that Aδ-mechanosensitive afferent activation can reverse an existing LTP condition in dorsal horn neurons. Conclusions The potential involvement of LTP in low back pain is discussed and a role for LTD in spinal manipulative therapy is proposed. The need for future studies is identified in the areas of spatial and temporal changes in symptomatology post-SMT of the low back; combining, sequencing, and comparing several therapeutic approaches; and demonstrating LTD in spinal cord neurons post-SMT-like stimulation.
A physiologic basis for red blood cell transfusion decisions.

Abstract Identification of a universal “transfusion trigger” has eluded surgeons for years. Optimization of cardiopulmonary hemodynamics should precede the decision to transfuse red blood cells. Red blood cell transfusion should be considered when global oxygen delivery falls below a critical point with increasing oxygen extraction and lactate levels. At present, these parameters must be monitored with invasive techniques. This article addresses some aspects of global oxygen delivery physiology that appear to correlate with cardiac function, metabolism, and tissue perfusion.
Effects of obstacles on Rayleigh wave dispersion obtained from the SASW test

This study investigates the effects of underground obstacles on a Rayleigh Wave dispersion curve obtained by spectral analysis of surface waves (SASW) testing. The SASW test is simulated by a transient response analysis of an axisymmetric finite element method. Both rigid obstacles and cavities with a variety of shapes and embedment depths are considered. Results show strong fluctuations in the dispersion curve obtained from the signals recorded by receivers in the vicinity of an obstacle. The fluctuations are primarily a result of wave reflections from the near and far faces of an obstacle. Results obtained from a finite element model are explained through a comparison with a simple theoretical model and experimental results are published. Fluctuations shown in the dispersion curve can result in misinterpretation of the shear wave velocity profile. Wherever obstacles are known to exist, an SASW test should be performed in a way that minimizes these effects. The parameters that will reduce or aggravate these effects were studied and are discussed.
Health-care reforms and the pharmaceutical industry

As governments look ever more critically at the costs of drugs, those working in the pharmaceutical industry must become aware of the effects on their own career prospects.
Meconium-stained amniotic fluid and neonatal morbidity in near-term and term deliveries with acute histologic chorioamnionitis and/or funisitis.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the incidence of meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) and neonatal morbidity in near-term and term deliveries with histologic acute chorioamnionitis and/or funisitis compared to those with normal placental histology. STUDY DESIGN: In a retrospective case-control design, we compared the incidence of MSAF and neonatal outcome in 45 cases of acute histologic chorioamnionitis and/or funisitis with 89 cases of normal placental histology. We reviewed the obstetric and neonatal records for perinatal complications and neonatal morbidity. RESULTS: Mean birthweights (3372+/-473 vs 3287+/-518 g) were similar in infants born to mothers with histologic chorioamnionitis and/or funisitis compared to infants born to mothers with normal placental histology. The incidence of MSAF was significantly higher in the group with acute chorioamnionitis/funisitis (p<0.05). Similarly, the incidence of admissions to newborn intensive care unit, respiratory distress, meconium aspiration syndrome, and presumed sepsis was also significantly higher (p<0.05) in this group. CONCLUSION: The incidence of MSAF and neonatal morbidity is higher in the presence of acute inflammation of placental membranes. The presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid should alert the physician to the potential for infection and increased neonatal morbidity.
Lattice Dynamics of CsCl, CsBr, and CsI

In a recent paper we had calculated the phonon dispersion of CsCl, CsBr, and CsI using the modified-rigid-ion model. Subsequently, phonon data on these crystals have become available from neutron scattering measurements. We find our predictions to agree remarkably well with the experimental data. Certain other advantages of our simple model are also pointed out.
Oligosaccharides from Phytophthora infestans enhance the elicitation of sesquiterpenoid stress metabolites by arachidonic acid in potato

Abstract Poly and oligosaccharides isolated from the mycelium of Phytophthora infestans enhanced the elicitation of sesquiterpenoid stress metabolites by AA in potato tubers. One fraction markedly enhanced the elicitation activity of AA and suppressed the elicitation activity of an incompatible and compatible race of the fungus. The saccharides were partially characterized as branched chain β-linked glucans. Of 18 unsaturated and saturated fatty acids tested, only ricinoleic acid enhanced the elicitation by arachidonic acid. Of 12 sugars tested only N, N′-diacetyl- d -chitobiose and stachyose enhanced elicitor activity of AA. The two sugars also suppressed elicitor activity to race 4 of P. infestans. The activity of these compounds was considerably less than that of fungal glucans. Of the acids and sugars tested, only AA elicited accumulation of sesquiterpenoids. Malto-oligosaccharides isolated from Karo syrup did not affect elicitation activity by arachidonic acid or the fungus.
Substance Use, Self-Esteem, and Depression among Asian American Adolescents.

The relationship of self-esteem and depression with alcohol, tobacco, and other drug (ATOD) use was tested in a California statewide sample of more than 4,300 Asian American high school students comprising five subgroups: Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Filipino, and Vietnamese. Estimated prevalence rates of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use among males and females from these Asian American subgroups are presented. Correlations revealed that cigarette, alcohol, and marijuana use were generally more related to high depression and low self-esteem in females than in males. Logistic regression analysis with only the female subjects investigated whether the relationship between the psychological variables and ATOD use was maintained even after controlling for traditionally important constructs in ATOD use (grade level in school, born in the United States, ethnicity, and ATOD use by friends). These results indicated that for females, depression was significantly related to alcohol and tobacco use, but self-esteem was not. Neither self-esteem nor depression was a significant contributor to marijuana use. Issues related to the application of these results are discussed.
The effect of prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors on renal function: studies in normal rats during sodium or water diuresis and in rats with chronic renal insufficiency.

Abstract The effect of acute infusion of the prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors — meclofenamate or indomethacin — was examined in awake rats. Studies were performed in normal rats undergoing either sodium or water diuresis and in salt-replete rats with chronic renal insufficiency. Prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors had no effect on renal plasma flow, glomerular filtration rate or fractional excretion of sodium in any of the groups. Absolute urinary excretion rates for sodium and potassium decreased only in the normal, salt-replete rats. In contrast, prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors consistently decreased urinary flow and osmolar clearance under all experimental conditions studied. In the normal, salt-replete rats the fall in urine flow was preceded by an increase in urinary excretion of cyclic AMP. These results show that inhibitors of prostaglandin synthesis enhance the ability of the kidney to reabsorb water. This effect may be secondary to increased cyclic AMP generation and to increased urea recirculation resulting in higher urea accumulation in the renal medulla.
The social organization of computing: the university and the sociology department

The following material is extracted from a paper presented at the meetings of the American Sociological Association, Montreal, August, 1974. We have concentrated on giving a survey of the positive proposals, and the discussion of problems involved in them, contained in the full paper. Parenthetic comments show where material has been deleted that is not a continuation of the preceding text. Copies of the full paper are available from the authors; it is a working draft, and they earnestly solicit reactions. The general purpose is to stimulate discussion of effective organization of computing for social and behavioral scientists in colleges and universities, and to provide some useful aids for presentation of the case for better computational support to administrative personnel. It may have some wider relevance, both for other settings and for substantive analysis.
Religiosity and Health Behavior— What Does Research Tell Us?

Abstract This article is based on the AAHPERD Research Consortium Scholar Lecture delivered at the 2010 AAHPERD National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. Dr. Young's various projects are five-time winners of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Award for Outstanding Work in Community Health Promotion. His drug education program, Keep A Clear Mind, authored with Chudley Werch, is a winner of the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention's (CSAP) Exemplary Program Award. It has also been promoted as a Model Program by CSAP, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, and is on the National Registry of Effective Programs. He has received a number of other awards from professional organizations and institutions.
The taxonomic status of saxifraga palmeri

An examination of the type collection of Saxifraga virginiensi& var. subintegra Goodman (Rhodora 52: 138. 1950) leaves no doubt that it is conspecific with S. palmeri Bush (Am. Midl. Nat. 11: 220, 221. 1928). The type of S. virginiensis var. subintegra was based upon Goodman & Waterfall 4748 from MeSpadden Falls, Cherokee Co., Oklahoma, whereas Bush based his description of S. palmeri on a syntype, citing various collections from Van Buren, Arkansas, collected by E. J. Palmer (20731, April 10, 1922; 29710, April 19, 1926; 21020, April 30, 1922). Bush, in addition, cited various other collections from Arkansas made by Palmer. The problem is whether to accept this taxon as a variety of S. virginiensis or as a distinct species. This has involved a study of available material of S. virginiensis, S. texana, and S. palmeri. I wish to thank the curators for the loan of their material from the following herbaria: Chicago Natural History Museum (F); Gray Herbarium, Harvard University (GH); Missouri Botanical Garden (MO); University of Oklahoma (OKL); Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College (OKLA); New York Botanical Garden (NY); Southern Methodist University (SMU); University of Arkansas (UARK); and United States National Museum (US). In his effort to elucidate more fully the detailed ranges of certain Saxifraga species, especially in the southern and midwestern United States, as treated by Johnson (Minn. Stud. Biol. Sci. 4: 1-109. 1923), Bush attempted to distinguish between a northern and eastern S. virginiensis Michx. and a southern and midwestern S. pilosa Haworth (Am. Midl. Nat. 11: 213-220. 1928). In this study he did not take into consideration the closely related Pacific Coast and northwestern states complex confused with S. virginiensis.1 Bush differentiated S. pilosa mainly on its very obtusely dentate, i.e. crenate, leaf blades, racernosely arranged infloreseence, and solitary short scapes, as opposed to the sharply serrate leaf blades, eymosely arranged infloreseence, and several or many scapes of S. virginiensis. While, admittedly S. virginiensis is variable in several characters (color, size, and number of petals, number of stamens, pubeseence and glandularity of scapes and pedicels, length of pedicels, size and shape of leaf blades, relative length of petioles, and number and length of scapes), there does not appear to be any definite correlation in the concomitant variations, nor any justification for maintaining segregated a southern and midwestern S. pilosa from a more northern and eastern S. virginiensis, as held by Bush. Some of the variations in length of petioles, size and shape of leaf blades, number and length of scapes, and length of pedicels, appear to be correlated with relative growth and maturity of the plant (i.e., plants in early spring generally
Does IRISIN Have a BRITE Future as a Therapeutic Agent in Humans

The epidemic of obesity has contributed to the rapid rise in comorbid conditions such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and hypertension among others. Therefore, there is a critical need to develop therapeutic strategies to reduce the prevalence of the disease. Skeletal muscle cells secrete signaling cytokines/peptides (referred to as myokines) that act in autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine fashion. Myokines have been hypothesized to contribute to the immediate and chronic benefits of exercise and may thus serve as attractive therapeutic agents for the treatment of obesity. The recent discovery of the irisin, a proposed myokine, has gained much attention over the last two years as a potential therapeutic agent. Preliminary studies demonstrated that irisin has the potential to induce “browning” of white adipocytes in mice. If these findings in mice could be translated to humans, irisin could be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of obesity. Limitations with the available antibodies, however, have raised concerns regarding the detectability of irisin in circulation. Moreover, the gene encoding irisin, FNDC5, is expressed robustly not only in muscle but also in various white adipose tissues (WAT) in humans, raising the possibility for increased thermogenesis through autocrine mechanisms. Here we will discuss the browning of WAT, the discovery of irisin, and its potential role in improving metabolic health in humans.
Optical-resolution photoacoustic microscopy of angiogenesis in a transgenic mouse model

A major obstacle in studying angiogenesis is the inability to noninvasively image neovascular development in an individual animal. We applied optical-resolution photoacoustic microscopy (OR-PAM) to determine the kinetics of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1)-mediated angiogenesis in a transgenic mouse model. During continuous 30-day activation of HIF-1α, we used OR-PAM to monitor alterations in microvasculature in transgenic mice compared to nontransgenic mice. OR-PAM has demonstrated the potential to precisely monitor antiangiogenic therapy of human cancers, allowing for rapid determinations of therapeutic efficacy or resistance.
Index of myocardial performance is afterload dependent in the normal and abnormal left ventricle

Background The index of myocardial performance (IMP) has been used as a prognostic systolic-diastolic index for patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and postmyocardial infarction. To date, systematic evaluation of afterload alteration (arterial pressure) on IMP has not been performed with normal or reduced left ventricular (LV) function. Methods We studied 15 mongrel dogs at baseline, after the induction of acute ischemic LV dysfunction, and with chronic LV dysfunction. Each dog was atrially paced, and the arterial pressure was reduced with nitroprusside (NTP) (>10 mm Hg) and increased with methoxamine (Methox) (>30 mm Hg) in random order. Hemodynamics and transmitral and transaortic pulsed Doppler were obtained. Results With normal LV function, there were no changes in IMP with NTP. Methox reduced IMP (0.51 ± 0.12-0.45 ± 0.12, P P P P P P = .0006) and LV ejection fraction ( P = .0222) were independent predictors of IMP. Conclusion IMP is afterload dependent in the normal LV. IMP is afterload dependent with acute and chronic LV dysfunction by influencing the isovolumic indices and LV ejection time in opposite directions. Further systematic evaluation of IMP is needed if this index is to be useful as a prognostic indicator.
Thyrolipoma: Diagnostic pitfalls in the cytologic diagnosis and review of the literature

Thyrolipoma, or adenolipoma of the thyroid gland, is an uncommon neoplasm and thus not recognized by many cytopathologists. This is the first article to describe the fine-needle aspirate findings of a histologically confirmed thyrolipoma. The gross morphologic and computerized tomographic features of this entity are also discussed, and the literature is reviewed.
Understanding sexuality: implications of Rubin for relationship research and clinical practice

In Thinking Sex, Rubin called into question what Western societies have deemed appropriate sex behaviors, acts, and identities. The current piece is a collaboration between two psychologists, one a researcher and the other a clinician; we use Rubin's theory to examine the assumptions underlying how romantic relationship research is studied and applied. We suggest five ways in which psychological researchers and practitioners can avoid reinforcing mono- and hetero-normativity: (1) conduct research on sexual practices that fall outside the “charmed circle,” (2) avoid assuming that sexual exclusivity is a hallmark feature of a healthy romantic relationship, (3) include consensual non-monogamy in multicultural clinical training, (4) ask clients about their relationship structure on intake paperwork, and (5) separate the decision to deceit from the desire for sexual and/or romantic novelty when treating cases of infidelity. Our goals were to examine mainstream rhetoric surrounding sexuality and to illustrate c...
Affect Regulation, Social Context, and Sexual Intercourse in Adolescents

This study examined trajectories of positive and negative affect surrounding penile-vaginal sexual intercourse (sex) in adolescents and explored the influence of companionship on these trajectories. Using a handheld computer, sexually active adolescents (N = 67) reported momentary affect and sex events in response to several random signals each day for 1 week (1,777 reports, 266 sex events). Cubic spline regression analyses showed that positive affect began to increase before sex, peaked at the time sex was reported, and then returned to baseline. Negative affect did not differ from baseline before sex, but decreased following sex. Improvement in affect before and after sex varied according to companionship. Understanding the complex associations of affect, companionship, and sex has implications for interpreting and intervening on adolescent sexual behavior in social context.
Sentinel Node Biopsy After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Initial Node-Positive Patients: Why or Why Not?

Sentinel lymph node (SLN) dissection provides a minimally invasive approach for axillary staging in breast cancer and is the standard of care in patients with clinically node-negative disease. In patients with node-positive disease, the traditional approach has been axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). After neoadjuvant chemotherapy, approximately 40 % of patients will be converted from clinically node positive to pathologically node negative raising significant interest in evaluating the role of SLN dissection in this clinical setting. Several clinical trials have evaluated the feasibility and accuracy of SLN dissection after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with node-positive disease including ACOSOG Z1071, SENTINA, and SN FNAC. In these trials, the false negative rate of the procedure has been reported to be >10 % when SLNs are evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining. However, there are several factors which have been identified to be associated with improved accuracy including the number of SLNs examined and the use of dual tracer lymphatic mapping. The SN FNAC trial also reported improved accuracy when immunohistochemistry was used in SLN evaluation. Patient selection is an important consideration as those with a low likelihood for residual disease and high likelihood of pathologic complete response are the most likely to benefit from this approach. Although, ALND remains the standard of care in these patients, there may be a selective role for SLN dissection in this setting. An alternative approach targeting removal of the known axillary disease in addition to SLN dissection may improve accuracy and is the focus of current investigation.
Toward Effective Supervision of Classroom Instruction

Here's a long look at what supervision in today's schools ought to be. The author says that if we truly believe in the value of all individuals, we must afford everyone a good chance of winning.
CG dinucleotide clusters in MHC genes and in 5′ demethylated genes

Abstract In the DNA of higher vertebrates the dinucleotide CG is unique in two respects: it occurs far less frequently than would be expected on the basis of the content of cytosine and guanine in a given DNA segment ("CG suppression") and it contains predominantly 5-methyl-cytosine, the only modified nucleotide common in vertebrate DNA. Here we point out the existence of CG clusters, i.e. localized lapses in the usual CG suppression, in two categories of DNA segments from vertebrates: around the polymorphic exons of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes and in the 5' regions of certain other genes. These observations contradict the recent suggestion that CG frequency is uniform over long contiguous segments of DNA containing several genes. A model for the origin of these CG clusters as a consequence of regional demethylation of germline DNA is supported by analysis of other sequence features of these regions as well as by previously published data on the methylation status in sperm DNA of two of these CG-rich regions.
Case of the Season: Primary Pulmonary Collision Tumor Consisting of Carcinoid and High-Grade Spindle-Cell Sarcoma

61-year-old man self referred to our institution for a second opinion of an incidentally detected mass on a chestradiographobtainedaspartofaroutineannualphysical examination. The patient, an asymptomatic nonsmoker, had a noncontributory medical history. Chest radiograph demonstrated a well-defined mass in the right upper lobe. Computed tomography (CT) of the chest revealed a 4.5 x3.4-cm well-circumscribed, homogeneous and smooth right upper lobemassprotrudingintotherightmainstembronchus(Fig. 1). Positron emission tomography (PET)/CT demonstrated the mass to be hypermetabolic with a standard uptake value of 17.7. A right upper lobectomy with lymph node dissection was performed via video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. The histopathologic diagnosis was a primary collision tumor of the lung consisting of carcinoid and high-grade malignant spindle cell sarcoma, predominantly spindle cell sarcoma with a small carcinoid component (5% of the overall volume of the lesion). A peribronchial and an intralobar lymph node were positive for metastatic carcinoid. All sampled mediastinal lymph nodes were negative. The patient was clinically staged as having a T2AN1MO carcinoid and isolated sarcoma. No further therapy was recommended because the spindle cell sarcoma was localized. Only the carcinoid component, considered an indolent tumor, had metastasized to lymph nodes. Complete surgical resection was considered the treatment for the carcinoid component. Chemotherapy was not recommended because it has not been shown to significantly improve the mortality rate of a high-grade sarcoma. The patient was subsequently closely monitored with serial CTs. Approximately 1.5 years after surgery, the patient developed symptomsofdysequilibrium.Magneticresonanceimagingof the brain demonstrated a bone metastasis from the sarcoma inthetuberculumsellaandleftclivus.BrainPET/CTrevealed a hypermetabolic intrasellar lesion with a standard uptake value of 9.9 (Fig. 2). A CT of the chest demonstrated a new left upper lobe pulmonary nodule consistent with a metastasis (Fig. 3). Our diagnosis was primary pulmonary collision tumor consisting of carcinoid and high-grade spindle cell sarcoma.