cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Estimating Absorbed Dose to Breast Adipose Tissue from Mammograms.

Purpose Breast cancer usually originates in the glandular tissue of the breast. However, inflamed adipose tissue surrounding glandular tissue may expedite the local growth of cancerous cells. Exposing adipose tissue to radiation during mammography might cause inflammation in adipose tissue. This inflammation depends on the dose, and thus on the energy deposited from the X-ray mammography. Therefore, estimating the absorbed dose to adipose tissue during mammography is essential in breast cancer research. Materials and Methods Absorbed dose to adipose tissue in the breast is determined using a new geometrical (semi-elliptical) model and Monte Carlo N-Particle transport code (MCNP6). X-ray mammogram images of patient breasts were taken as the basis of the new compressed breast geometry. The source probability density used in the MCNP6 code was generated from a published X-ray spectrum corresponding to tube voltage and air kerma. The relationship between various mammogram parameters such as peak tube voltage, compressed breast thickness, and adipose tissue weight fraction versus estimated absorbed dose is established for analysis. Results Significant influences of adipose tissue weight fraction on absorbed dose were observed. Conclusion Estimating the absorbed dose to breast adipose tissue during mammography and patients' degree of obesity are important factors in breast cancer research.
Abstract 19710: Causes for Increased Cardiac Troponin I Using Gender-Specific 99th Percentiles From a High Sensitivity Assay in a US Population

Introduction: High-sensitivity cardiac troponin (hs-cTn) assays have not yet been FDA cleared for clinical use in the United States (US). Pending expected approval of hs-cTn assays, which will use gender-specific cutoffs (GSC), it is relevant to recognize the causes of cTn increases using hs-cTnI assays in a US population. Our purpose was to describe the frequency of distinct etiologies of hs-cTnI assay increases using GSC. Methods: Retrospective study of 310 patients with serial hs-cTnI (Abbott ARCHITECT, 99th percentiles: F:16 ng/L; M:34 ng/L) measurements. Patients with an increased hs-cTnI were adjudicated into categories according to the 3rd Universal Definition of MI. Categories included, A: primary myocardial ischemia (i.e. plaque rupture); B: injury secondary to supply/demand imbalance; C: injury not related to myocardial ischemia (i.e. cardiac contusion, ablation, shock, surgery); D: multifactorial or indeterminate myocardial injury (i.e. heart failure, critically ill, pulmonary HTN, sepsis, stro...
How Spoken Language and Signed Language Structure Space Differently

Linguistic research to date has determined many of the factors that structure the spatial schemas found across spoken languages. It is now feasible to integrate these factors and to determine the comprehensive system they constitute for spatial structuring in spoken language. This system is characterized by several features: It has a relatively closed universally available inventory of fundamental spatial elements that are combined to form whole schemas. It has a relatively closed set of categories that these elements appear in. And it has a relatively closed small number of particular elements in each category, hence, of spatial distinctions that each category can ever mark. An examination of signed language shows that its structural representation of space systematically differs from that in spoken language in the direction of what appear to be the structural characteristics of scene parsing in visual perception. Such differences include the following: Signed language can mark finer spatial distinctions with its inventory of more structural elements, more categories, and more elements per category. It represents many more of these distinctions in any particular expression. It also represents these distinctions independently in the expression, not bundled together into "pre-packaged" schemas. And its spatial representations are largely iconic with visible spatial characteristics. The findings suggest that instead of some discrete whole-language module, spoken language and signed language are both based on some more limited core linguistic system that then connects with different further subsystems for the full functioning of the two different language modalities.
Implications of Abundance Measurements of the Intracluster Medium

The potential implications of future measurements of the heavy-element abundances in intracluster gas are considered in the framework of the cold-dark-matter scenario of structure formation in the early universe (Blumenthal et al., 1984). Particular attention is given to the correlation between the M(gas)/M(stellar) ratio and the gas temperature in groups and clusters of galaxies found by Jones et al. (1989) and its relationship to the efficiency of galaxy formation. Quantitative predictions for the correlation between Fe abundance and gas temperature are presented in graphs and discussed in detail.
Content-Based Mining of Query Replacements

Keyword searching is the most common form of product search on the Web. Most search engines do their text query and retrieval using keywords. The average keyword query length is under three words (2.2 words). Online advertisers are eager to find all relevant popular search phrases to promote their products. However, features in natural language such as synonymy, relations of terms, and perceptions of terms pose difficulties for advertisers. Vendors cannot anticipate all possible ways in which shoppers search for their products. The ultimate aim of search engines is to increase the number of relevant results and to reduce irrelevant results as much as possible. Many times, users' search query may not be a perfect description of their information needs. Even when the information is somewhat well described, a search engine or information retrieval system may not be able to retrieve documents matching the query as stated. For example, if the shopper uses motorcycle jacket then unless the publisher knows that every leather jacket can be a motorcycle jacket it cannot produce all matches for the user's search. Thus, for certain phrases, there is a semantic gap between the search phrase used and the way the corresponding matching products are described. A serious consequence of this gap is that the users are not satisfied. Thus there is a critical need to boost product findability by bridging the semantic gap that exists between search phrases and product descriptions. Closing this gap has the strong potential to translate web traffic into higher conversion rates and more satisfied user experience. In this dissertation, a model for terms correlation is introduced and a robust automated algorithm for exploring definition rules is presented. This algorithm can use a small corpus of keyword matching product descriptions for an advertiser's search-phrase to effectively mine and rank alternative but highly relevant search-phrase definitions. These definitions, which are search-phrases themselves, can then be provided as alternative phrases to an advertiser. Experimental evaluations are also provided with large datasets to demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach.
Hematopoietic cell transplantation for primary systemic amyloidosis: what have we learned.

Dose-intensive therapy with hematopoietic cell transplantation is effective at reversing AL amyloidosis but is not without risk. Guidelines have been developed for patient selection in order to maximize benefit and minimize treatment-related mortality. Identification of a - patient's clonal germline light chain variable region gene may become relevant to patient selection, and development of less morbid approaches to stem cell mobilization and collection would be helpful. While there is room for discussion regarding the design of future therapeutic trials, it is reasonable to attempt to improve the complete response rate for good risk patients by continuing efforts on the phase II level. Attempts to improve outcomes for patients with symptomatic cardiac or advanced multisystem disease may require serial solid organ and stem cell transplantation as well as the development of less toxic approaches using lower doses of melphalan, improved supportive care measures and specific organ-system prophylaxis. If out...
Effects of DC Preionization Voltage and Radial Location on Pulsed Inductive Plasma Formation

The effects of dc preionization (PI) voltage and radial location on plasma formation repeatability are presented for argon prefills of 20–200 mtorr with a discharge energy of 79.5 J at 15 kV. Current profiles of a ringing theta-pinch are compared with circuit simulation in SPICE to estimate plasma resistance and inductance and quantify plasma formation uncertainty. Plasma thickness is calculated using axial imaging and experimental geometry and used to determine the mutual inductance coupling of the plasma and the theta-pinch coil. At all pressures tested, plasma formation failed to occur in the absence of dc PI. At pressures less than 100 mtorr, PI voltage has a significant impact on plasma formation, repeatability, and energy coupling into the plasma. At 20 mtorr, 0.20 W of dc power is sufficient to stabilize plasma formation at the first zero-crossing of the current. With 1.5 W, an additional 39% of inductive energy is coupled into the plasma. Increasing pressure also increased plasma repeatability and resulted in a convergence of plasma circuit parameters.
Insulin-induced β-Arrestin1 Ser-412 Phosphorylation Is a Mechanism for Desensitization of ERK Activation by Gαi-coupled Receptors

Beta-arrestin1 is an adapter/scaffold for many G protein-coupled receptors during mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling. Phosphorylation of beta-arrestin1 at position Ser-412 is a regulator of beta-arrestin1 function, and in the present study, we showed that insulin led to a time- and dose-dependent increase in beta-arrestin1 Ser-412 phosphorylation, which blocked isoproterenol- and lysophosphatidic acid-induced Ser-412 dephosphorylation and impaired ERK signaling by these G protein-coupled receptor ligands. Insulin treatment also led to accumulation of Ser-412-phosphorylated beta-arrestin1 at the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor and prevented insulin-like growth factor 1/Src association. Insulin-induced Ser-412 phosphorylation was partially dependent on ERK as treatment with the MEK inhibitor PD98059 inhibited the insulin effect (62% reduction, p = 0.03). Inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase by wortmannin did not have a significant effect (9% reduction, p = 0.41). We also found that the protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) was in a molecular complex with beta-arrestin1 and that the PP2A inhibitor okadaic acid increased Ser-412 phosphorylation. Concomitant addition of insulin and okadaic acid did not produce an additive effect on Ser-412 phosphorylation, suggesting a common mechanism. Small t antigen specifically inhibited PP2A, and in HIRcB cells expressing small t antigen, beta-arrestin1 Ser-412 phosphorylation was increased, and insulin had no further effect. Insulin treatment caused increased beta-arrestin1 Ser-412 phosphorylation, which blocked mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling and internalization by beta-arrestin1-dependent receptors with no effect on beta-adrenergic receptor Gs-mediated cAMP production. These findings provide a new mechanism for insulin-induced desensitization of ERK activation by Galphai-coupled receptors.
Mindfulness for irritable bowel syndrome: protocol development for a controlled clinical trial

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a functional bowel disorder with symptoms of abdominal pain and disturbed defecation experienced by 10% of U.S. adults, results in significant disability, impaired quality of life, and health-care burden. Conventional medical care focusing on pharmacological approaches, diet, and lifestyle management has been partially effective in controlling symptoms. Behavioral treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and hypnosis, are promising. This paper describes an on-going feasibility study to assess the efficacy of mindfulness training, a behavioral treatment involving directing and sustaining attention to present-moment experience, for the treatment of IBS. The study design involves randomization of adult women with IBS according to Rome II criteria, to either an eight-week mindfulness training group (based on a Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction [MBSR] format) or a previously validated IBS social-support group as an attention-control condition. The primary hypothesis is that, compared to Support Group participants, those in the Mindfulness Program will demonstrate significant improvement in IBS symptoms as measured by the IBS Symptom Severity Scale [1]. 214 individuals have been screened for eligibility, of whom 148 were eligible for the study. Of those, 87 were enrolled, with 21 withdrawing after having given consent. 66 have completed or are in the process of completing the interventions. It is feasible to undertake a rigorous randomized clinical trial of mindfulness training for people with IBS, using a standardized MBSR protocol adapted for those experiencing IBS, compared to a control social-support group previously utilized in IBS studies. Clinical Trials.gov Identifier: NCT00680693
Precision measurement of transition energies and Lamb shifts in two-electron argon and potassium in solar-flare spectra.

The wavelengths of $1{s}^{2}^{1}S_{0}\ensuremath{-}1\mathrm{snp}^{1}P_{1}$ transitions in the two-electron ions Ar xvii and K xvii have been measured in solar-flare spectra. The QED contributions to the transition energies are determined by comparison of the measured transition energies to the calculated values. The ionization limit of Ar xvii is also determined.
Serum Erythropoietin Levels and Hematocrit in End-Stage Renal Disease: Influence of the Mode of Dialysis

Serum etythropoietin (Ep) levels were measured by radioimmunoassay in 70 patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) to evaluate the influence of the mode of dialysis on the relationship between serum Ep levels and the severity of anemia. Thirty-five patients were on hemodialysis (HD), seven were on intermittent peritoneal dialysis (IPD), and 28 were on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Compared to HD, CAPD patients had higher serum Ep (CAPD), 46.1 ± 13.4 v HD, 16.9 ± 2.2 mU/mL) and hematocrit (CAPD, 33.9 ± 2.5 v HD, 24.8 ± 1.4%; P n = 6) than later (39 ± 6.4 mU/mL, n = 24). A significant fluctuation in serum Ep and Hct values was noted in patients on all three modes of dialysis, when multiple samples were obtained at different time intervals. There was a weak correlation between serum Ep and Hct in the three groups of dialysis patients; r = 0.36, P
Analytical inversion of symmetric tridiagonal matrices

In this paper we present an analytical formula for the inversion of symmetrical tridiagonal matrices. The result is of relevance to the solution of a variety of problems in mathematics and physics. As an example, the formula is used to derive an exact analytical solution for the one-dimensional discrete Poisson equation with Dirichlet boundary conditions.
The extent and nature of television reception difficulties associated with CB radio transmissions

The Federal Communications Commission's (FCC), Field Operations Bureau (FOB) has released the results of a study on interference with television reception associated with Citizens Band Radio. The report is based on investigation of a random selection of interference complaints received by six FCC field offices -- Baltimore, Buffalo, Kansas City, Norfolk, San Francisco and Seattle -- over a one year period. These complaints were analyzed through technical measurements on the complainant's TV receiver and the CB equipment, as well as through interviews with other residents in the CB operator's neighborhood. The report is unique in that it represents "real-life" television interference situations rather than predictions based on laboratory data. The findings of the study are discussed in this paper in the hope that the empirical data will provide new insight as to the causes of the CB-TV interference problem and will lead to preventative actions by involved parties.
Mortality attributable to obesity among middle-aged adults in the United States.

Obesity is considered a major cause of premature mortality and a potential threat to the longstanding secular decline in mortality in the United States. We measure relative and attributable risks associated with obesity among middle-aged adults using data from the Health and Retirement Study (1992–2004). Although class II/III obesity (BMI _ 35.0 kg/m2) increases mortality by 40% in females and 62% in males compared with normal BMI (BMI = 18.5-24.9), class I obesity (BMI = 30.0-34.9) and being overweight (BMI = 25.0-29.9) are not associated with excess mortality. With respect to attributable mortality, class II/III obesity (BMI _ 35.0) is responsible for approximately 4% of deaths among females and 3% of deaths among males. Obesity is often compared with cigarette smoking as a major source of avoidable mortality. Smoking-attributable mortality is much larger in this cohort: about 36% in females and 50% in males. Results are robust to confounding by preexisting diseases, multiple dimensions of socioeconomic status (SES), smoking, and other correlates. These findings challenge the viewpoint that obesity will stem the long-term secular decline in U.S. mortality.
The structure of the Escherichia coli hemB gene.

Abstract The Escherichia coli hemB gene, which encodes 5-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase, and was cloned into pTZ 18U, a multicopy plasmid, was sequenced. The hemB insert was double-digested with restriction enzymes and recloned back into pTZ 18U and pTZ 19U to allow for sequencing in two directions. In a second procedure, used to fill in gaps and to confirm the sequence derived from the first procedure, the whole insert was cloned into M13 phages. A nested set of deletions was constructed and recloned into M13. Both the double-digested fragments cloned into plasmids pTZ 18U and pTZ 19U and the overlapping fragments contained in M13 phages were sequenced using the dideoxy procedure with [35S]dATP. Computer software was used to identify coding regions and the correct reading frame. Two promoter regions, two Shine-Dalgarno sequences and two possible start sites were identified. Extensive homologies with yeast (36%), human liver (40%) and rat liver (40%) amino-acid (aa) sequences were observed, especially in the 16-aa Zn-binding region (75%) and the 4 aa surrounding the essential lysine at the active site (100% for rat and human proteins). Computer analysis of promoter strength and two independent analyses of codon usage indicated that the hemB gene is moderately expressed.
Herpes simplex encephalitis.

Summary A virus, identified as a strain of herpes simplex, was isolated from the brain of an infant who died during an illness characterized by signs of encephalitis. Acidophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies and encephalitic changes were seen in histologic sections of the brain. The absence of herpes simplex neutralizing antibodies in the patient's serum on the eighth day of illness indicated that the encephalitis represented a primary infection with the virus.
What is the role of sofosbuvir in treating hepatitis C infection

Sofosbuvir, a nucleotide polymerase inhibitor, was approved in 2013 for treating hepatitis C infection in adults. This article reviews the use of sofosbuvir in combination with ribavirin with or without pegylated interferon.
Heterogeneity of Ion Exchange Resins

The density gradient method of Linderstrom-Lang has been used to study density variations among swollen beads in batches of cation exchange resin. Solutions of salts such as sodium tungstate which have dense anions are used. Certain commercial resins appear to be very uniform in cross linking and sulfonation.
Specialty choice and attitudes toward medical specialists.

Abstract Sixty-two graduating medical students characterized four kinds of specialists and expressed their choice of specialty. The final stereotypes were: Surgeon —a decisive and efficient man of action driving forcefully to achieve his goals in an impersonal and autocratic manner; Pediatrician —a responsible person who actively relates to others in a warm and friendly manner; Internist —an intelligent and responsible person; Psychiatrist —a placid and self-concerned person who is compliant and emotionally uninvolved in his relations with others. Specialty choice showed little relationship to the stereotypes but was related to the image of members of the chosen specialty.
Polycyclic Musks in Water, Sediment, and Fishes from the Upper Hudson River, New York, USA

Synthetic musks are used in many consumer products for their pleasant odor and their binding affinity for fabrics. In the early 1990s, polycyclic musks were reported to occur in air, water, sediment, wildlife, and humans from many European countries. Concentrations of polycyclic musks, particularly 1,3,4,6,7,8-hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8-hexamethyl-cyclopenta-[γ]-2-benzopyran (HHCB) and 7-acetyl-1,1,3,4,4,6-hexamethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronapthalene (AHTN), have been reported to increase over time in the environment. In this study, concentrations of musks in water, sediment, fish, and mussel were determined from three locations along the upper Hudson River. HHCB and AHTN were detected in water (n = 5; 3.95–25.8 and 5.09–22.8 ng/L, respectively), sediment (n = 3; 72.8–388 and 113–544 ng/g, dry weight), fish (n = 30; <1–125 and <1–32.8 ng/g, lipid weight), and zebra mussel (n = 4; 10.3–19.3 and 42.2–65.9 ng/g, lipid weight) samples. Bioaccumulation factors of HHCB calculated for white perch, catfish, smallmouth bass, and largemouth bass were in the range of 18 to 371, when the concentrations in fish were expressed on a wet weight basis; the factors were in the range of 261 to 12,900, when the concentrations in fish were expressed on a lipid weight basis.
Cavity-enhanced multispectral photodetector using phase-tuned propagation: theory and design

We propose and theoretically analyze what we believe to be a novel design of cavity-enhanced photodetectors capable of sensing multiple wavelengths simultaneously in a single pixel. The design is based on phase-tuned propagation of resonant modes in cascaded planar resonant cavities. We show that this concept can be generalized to detect multiple wavelength combinations covering the entire near to far infrared spectrum. Besides its multispectral detection capability, the design also features minimal spectral cross talk and significantly suppressed noise. The intrinsic design versatility and scalability, as well as process compatibility with planar microfabrication, suggest the design's wide application potential for telecommunications, infrared imaging, and biochemical sensing.
Minor head injuries in American football. Prevention of long term sequelae.

The most common head injury in sports is the minor head injury or concussion — estimated to occur at a rate of 250 000 per year in contact sports.
Two-color mid-infrared thermometer with a hollow glass optical fiber

We have developed a low-temperature optical-fiber-based two-color infrared thermometer. A single 700-μm-bore hollow glass optical fiber collects and transmits radiation that is then modulated and split into two paths by a reflective optical chopper. Two different thermoelectrically cooled mid-infrared HgCdZnTe photoconductors monitor the chopped signals that are recovered with lock-in amplification. With the two previously obtained blackbody calibration equations, a computer algorithm calculates the true temperature and emissivity of a target in real time, taking into account reflection of the ambient radiation field from the target surface. The small numerical aperture of the hollow glass fiber and the fast response of the detectors, together with the two-color principle, permit high spatial and temporal resolution while allowing the user to dynamically alter the fiber-to-target distance.
ROLE OF ADJUVANT CHEMORADIOTHERAPY FOR RESECTED EXTRAHEPATIC BILIARY TRACT CANCER

Purpose To evaluate the effect of adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) on locoregional control (LRC), disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS) for patients with extrahepatic biliary tract cancer treated with curative resection. Methods and Materials The study involved 168 patients with extrahepatic biliary tract cancer undergoing curative resection between August 2001 and April 2009. Of the 168 patients, 115 received adjuvant CRT (CRT group) and 53 did not (no-CRT group). Gender, age, tumor size, histologic differentiation, pre- and postoperative carbohydrate antigen 19-9 level, resection margin, vascular invasion, perineural invasion, T stage, N stage, overall stage, and the use of adjuvant CRT were analyzed to identify the prognostic factors associated with LRC, DFS, and OS. Results For all patients, the 5-year LRC, DFS, and OS rate was 54.8%, 30.6%, and 33.9%, respectively. On univariate analysis, the 5-year LRC, DFS, and OS rates in the CRT group were significantly better than those in the no-CRT group (58.5% vs. 44.4%, p = .007; 32.1% vs. 26.1%, p = .041; 36.5% vs. 28.2%, p = .049, respectively). Multivariate analysis revealed that adjuvant CRT was a significant independent prognostic factor for LRC, DFS, and OS ( p .05). Conclusion Our results have suggested that adjuvant CRT helps achieve LRC and, consequently, improves DFS and OS in patients with extrahepatic biliary tract cancer.
Element-specific detectors for liquid chromatography: The determination of arsenic compounds

Abstract Systems for the determination of trace element compounds consisting of liquid chromatographs (LC) (high pressure liquid chromatographs, ion chromatographs) and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometers (GFAAS) or inductively coupled argon plasma emission spectrometers (ICP) as single- or multi-element-specific detectors are described. The applications of these systems to the determination of arsenic compounds are reviewed. The absolute detection limits of these systems for arsenic are in the low nanogram range. These detection limits can probably be improved by two-three orders of magnitude by coupling an inductively coupled argon plasma-mass spectrometer instrument to the liquid chromatograph. The advantages and drawbacks of the LC-GFAAS and LC-ICP systems are outlined. These systems can separate and identify trace element compounds that are kinetically or thermodynamically stable under the conditions of the chromatography. Labile compounds cannot be determined by these systems. Wide application of these systems to problems of trace element research will lead to the identification of hitherto unknown trace element compounds, to a better understanding of the nutritional and toxic properties of trace element compounds, and to a better definition of trace element cycles.
ANSI N42. 17B-1989: Performance Testing of Workplace Air Monitors used to Measure Occupational Airborne Radioactivity

Abstract In 1990, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) published a standard on “Performance Specifications for Health Physics Instrumentation—Occupational Airborne Radioactivity Monitoring Instrumentation.” This standard specifies performance criteria and testing procedures for instruments and instrument systems designed to continuously sample and quantify concentrations of radioactivity in ambient air in the workplace. This article discusses specific criteria in the ANSI standard regarding instrument performance and design and the results from testing different air monitors using procedures based on the criteria in the standard. Criteria in the standard are divided into the following categories: general, electronic, radiation response, interfering responses, environmental, and air circuit. Testing results from each of these categories are given. Results from tests of response time, coefficient of variation, beta-energy dependence, and environmental conditions (i.e., temperature, humidity, amb...
Quantal analysis indicates an α-toxin-like block by lophotoxin, a non-ionic marine natural product

The effects of a structurally novel paralytic substance (lophotoxin) on quantal transmission parameters and the time course of synaptic potentials have been examined. This substance completely abolished potentials by reducing quantal size without affecting the release of quanta. Nerve conduction, membrane potential, and the passive electrical properties of the muscle end-plate remained unaffected. Lophotoxin appears to act directly on the acetylcholine receptor-channel complex, although perhaps not the cholinoreceptive site itself, as suggested by the unusual chemistry and onset kinetics of this toxin.
A Method of Orienting Paraffin Sections for Three-Dimensional Reconstructions

To make reconstructions from serial sections, reference points are needed to orient the sections. Such points can be provided after paraffin embedding by cutting the bottom face of the block to form a plane and adding a groove along the center of this plane. The plane and groove are coated with Mimeograph Correction Fluid and the block is built up by dipping in hot paraffin so that the marked plane lies inside the block. Each section will have a blue line with a notch in it representing the plane and groove. This line remains through staining and is used to orient each section with respect to an eyepiece reticle. The reticle, in effect, supplies X and Y coordinates for every point in the specimen while the number of each section counted from one end is a Z coordinate.
Letter by Glatz et al Regarding Article, “Cumulative Radiation Exposure and Cancer Risk Estimation in Children With Heart Disease”

We read with interest the recent article by Johnson et al1 describing cumulative radiation exposure and estimates of lifetime attributable risk (LAR) of cancer for a cohort of children ≤6 years of age undergoing 1 of 7 primary surgical procedures at their institution. With a wide range of exposures across the cohort, the authors report an overall median cumulative exposure of 2.7 mSv, the majority from cardiac catheterization. Similarly, a wide range of estimated LAR was reported. This article represents another valuable contribution to the literature on the important topic of cumulative radiation exposure from medical testing for pediatric patients with chronic medical conditions, such as congenital heart disease. However, we feel compelled to …
Extrapleural pneumonectomy in the multimodality therapy of malignant pleural mesothelioma. Results in 120 consecutive patients.

OBJECTIVE: The authors examine the feasibility and efficacy of trimodality therapy in the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma and identify prognostic factors. BACKGROUND: Mesothelioma is a rare, uniformly fatal disease that has increased in incidence in recent decades. Single and bimodality therapies do not improve survival. METHODS: From 1980 to 1995, 120 patients underwent treatment for pathologically confirmed malignant mesothelioma at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Boston, MA). Initial patient evaluation was performed by a multimodality team. Patients meeting selection criteria and with resectable disease identified by computed tomography scan or magnetic resonance imaging underwent extrapleural pneumonectomy followed by combination chemotherapy and radiotherapy. RESULTS: The cohort included 27 women and 93 men with a mean age of 56 years. Operative mortality rate was 5.0%, with a major morbidity rate of 22%. Overall survival rates were 45% at 2 years and 22% at 5 years. Two and 5-year survival rates were 65% and 27%, respectively, for patients with epithelial cell type, and 20% and 0%, respectively, for patients with sarcomatous or mixed histology tumors. Nodal involvement was a significant negative prognostic factor. Patients who were node negative with epithelial histology had 2- and 5-year survival rates of 74% and 39%, respectively. Involvement of margins at time of resection did not affect survival, except in the case of full-thickness, transdiaphragmatic invasion. Classification on the basis of a revised staging system stratified median survivals, which were 22, 17, and 11 months for stages I, II, and III, respectively (p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Extrapleural pneumonectomy with adjuvant therapy is appropriate treatment for selected patients with malignant mesothelioma selected using a revised staging system.
Surveying for hellbender salamanders, Cryptobranchus alleganiensis (Daudin): A review and critique

Wereview the wide array of techniques and their variants used in studying a cryptobranchid salamander and discuss their advantages and disadvantages. Electroshocking surveys are strongly discouraged because of the great potential for damaging reproductive success, immune systems, and their questionable effectiveness. Because successful Cryptobranchus alleganiensis nesting sites appear to be quite limited, the use of Peavy hooks and crowbars to breakup bedrock or dislodge large cover rocks should be restricted. Currently, skin-diving surveys coupled with turning objects is the only method shown to obtain all sizes of gilled larvae and multiple age groups of non-gilled and adult C. alleganiensis in brief periods.
Shared decision-making in dementia: A review of patient and family carer involvement:

This paper reviews empirical findings concerning the decision-making process of persons with dementia and their family carers, with a particular focus on the extent and determinants of involvement of persons with dementia in the decision-making process. To be included in this review, studies needed to be published in peer-reviewed journals between 1999 and 2014, report empirical data from participants with dementia and/or their family carers, and pertain to the involvement of persons with dementia and their family carers in decisions about everyday care, medical care and treatment, or long-term care. A total of 36 studies were included. Results indicated that not all persons with dementia are excluded from participating in the decision-making process, but there is a broad spectrum of what constitutes shared decision-making in dementia. Studies concerning the determinants of shared decision-making mostly focused on non-modifiable factors. Future research is needed to better promote shared decision-making among persons with dementia and their family carers.
Validity of Achievement Motivation Measures on the California Psychological Inventory

Summary.-As measures of achievement motivation, the Achievement via Conformance and the Achievement via Independence scales of the California Psychological Inventory, as well as the Achievement Orientation score developed by Carney, were administered to 113 college students. These scores were related to a diversity of achievement behaviors. While some significant relationships were obtained between achievement motivation and achievement behaviors, it was concluded that caution should be exercised in predicting specific achievement behaviors from more general motivation measures. In addition, the three motivation measures used in this study appeared to be measuring diverse aspects of achievement motivation. Achievement motivation research has been vigorous for the past two decades, beginning with McClelland and his associates (McClelland, Atkinson, Clark, & Lowell, 1953). McClelland, et al. defined need for achievement (n Ach) as the tendency to act in competition with some standard of excellence. The more common measure of n Ach used in studies within the McCleUand framework has been an adaptation by McClelland, et al. (1958) of the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT). Numerous investigations have examined the relationship of n Ach to various performance measures. Obviously the n Ach studies are not the only studies to look at achievement behavior. The history of psychological measurement is replete with attempts to predict achievement of one type or another. McClelland's work has focused on achievement per se; however, the questions asked in this type of research have been endeavors to understand a general tendency in individuals to act toward excellence, to succeed. Other instruments have been developed to study achievement orientation or motivation. The Edwards Personal Preference Schedule (Edwards, 1959) contains an n Ach scale, as does the Adjective Check List (Gough & Heilbrun, 1965 ) . During the 1950s, Gough ( 1975 ) developed two achievement scales for the California Psychological Inventory. The Achievement via Conformance scale has as its purpose to "identify those factors of interest and motivation which facilitate achievement in any setting where conformance is a positive behavior" (Gough, 1975, p. 11). The Achievement via Independence scale is described in the same terms except that the settings to which it relates require more autonomy and independence. The former scale is posited to be
Abstract 3973: Developing a public resource for structural biology and cancer pathway plasmids

Understanding the structure and function of the genes involved in cancer is crucial to dissecting the underlying mechanisms of cancer development, progression and treatment. The Protein Structure Initiative:Biology-Materials Repository (MR; http://psimr.asu.edu) connects researchers with both the genetic raw materials and the structural knowledge to better understand the roles of individual genes in cancer pathways. As a centralized plasmid repository, the MR is responsible for sequence-verification, archival, and distribution of plasmids created by the high throughput structural genomics efforts of the Protein Structure Initiative (PSI). Plasmid annotations such as the full length sequence, vector information, and associated publications are stored in a freely available, searchable database called DNASU (http://dnasu.asu.edu). Each plasmid also links to external resources, including the PSI Structural Biology Knowledgebase (http://sbkb.org) facilitating cross-referencing of plasmids to additional protein annotations and experimental data. In addition to the 50,000 protein expression plasmids and empty vectors from the PSI, DNASU distributes over 151,000 plasmids including collections of human kinases, 1,000 breast cancer-related genes, over 10,000 human genes in several cloning and expression vectors, and over 800 glyco-enzyme plasmids that were created by or in collaboration with the MR, the ORFeome Collaboration, or individual laboratories. Furthermore, the MR strives to expedite and simplify plasmid requests through its expedited material transfer agreement (EP-MTA) network, where researchers from network institutions can order and receive PSI plasmids without institutional delays. By providing these plasmids to the research community, the MR is able to facilitate and accelerate the study of the biological function of proteins involved in cancer and whose structures have been solved by the PSI. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3973. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-3973
Towards Heterogeneous Composition of Distributed Real-Time and Embedded (DRE) Systems Using the CORBA Component Model

This paper presents a method for using the CORBA Component Model (CCM) to integrate heterogeneous DRE systems. It has been realized in a extensible C++ template framework named CCM++. Experience from applying CCM++ on an example DRE shows can simplify heterogeneous DRE system composition while remaining spec-compliant. This therefore increases the portability of the solution to existing tools and frameworks that are CCM-compliant.
Changing paradigms in dermatology: topical immunomodulators within a permutational paradigm for the treatment of atopic and eczematous dermatitis.

Abstract The first formulation of a class of products called t opical i mmuno m odulator s (TIMS) was approved for clinical use in December 2000 and released in February 2001. This product is tacrolimus in an ointment base, prescribed under the trademark Protopic™. The next TIM, pimecrolimus cream, was FDA approved in December 2001 and launched February 2002 in a cream vehicle under the trademark Elidel®. TIMs are becoming a significant component in the topical treatment paradigm for atopic dermatitis, introducing a useful alternative to, or complement for, high- and low-potency topical steroid therapy.
Leptin is not necessary for gestation and parturition but regulates maternal nutrition via a leptin resistance state

Leptin levels are significantly elevated in pregnant mice, rats and humans suggesting a critical role for leptin during gestation. To address whether leptin plays a putative role in the physiology of pregnancy, we asked whether a mouse pregnancy would be affected by the complete absence of leptin from both the mother and fetuses. Thus, leptin-deficient ob/ob females were first treated with exogenous leptin and then mated to similarly treated ob/ob males. All resulting fetuses have an ob/ob genotype and lack like their mothers any endogenous leptin production. Withdrawal of leptin treatment at 0.5, 6.5, 10.5 and 19.5 days p.c. did not affect any stage of the pregnancy despite a gradual return of the mothers to an obese state. However, some mice had delayed gestation periods of 21-23 days which were associated with prolonged parturition. The pups were normally delivered with no obvious signs of deformities although none survived beyond a day after delivery due to failure of lactation. Monitoring daily food intake of pregnant ob/ob females treated throughout gestation with leptin revealed significantly elevated levels of food intake from day 10 p.c. and onward demonstrating an attenuation of a leptin response during pregnancy and a leptin resistance effect. These studies demonstrate that in the mouse, leptin is not a critical molecule for implantation, gestation, fetal growth and parturition but that the leptin resistance effect at mid-gestation aims to stimulate food intake thus providing sustained energy resources for pregnancy.
Crystal and molecular structure of bis(pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)dicarbonyldicobalt

The compound (η 5 -Me 5 C 5 )Co(μ-CO) 2 Co(η 5 -Me 5 C 5 ) has been prepared and characterized. The crystal structure has been determined and the CoCo distance found to be 2.327(2) A. This structure completes the information on MM distances in the series of compounds CpM(EO)(E′O)MCp, where Cp = C 5 H 5 or Me 5 C 5 , M = Fe or Co and E = C or N, several members of which were previously studied by others. The EAN rule would predict a double bond here as in the isoelectronic compound CpFe(NO) 2 FeCp and the MM distances are virtually identical in the two molecules. Disordered packing of the molecules limits the accuracy with which the molecular dimensions, other than CoCo, may be determined. However, the structure is in generally close agreement with those of the other molecules in the set previously mentioned. The crystals are monoclinic with a 7.433(2) A, b 14.704(8) A, c 9.671(2) A, β 101.84(2)° and V 1034.6(7) A 3 ; Z = 2. The structure was refined to R 1 = 0.062 and R 2 = 0.074 using a disordered model in space group P 2 1 / m .
CONDENSATION OF GLYCINE WITH PHENOL DURING PAPER CHROMATOGRAPHY.

Abstract Three products formed during the paper chromatography of glycine with water-saturated phenol as a solvent have been investigaetd. These unknowns were stable condensation products whose formation was dependent upon the presence of glycine ad formaldehyde. They were ninhydrin sensitive. Alkaline hydrolysis yielded glycine. For chromatographic practices, the amount of glycine or formaldehyde which may be converted into the condensation products will depend upon the amount of the other component in the mixture. Addition of 1% formaldehyde normally complexes all of the glycine. In usual chromatographic experiments part of the glycine may be complexed by residual formaldehyde present in chromatographic phenol. Glycine condensation may be minimized by redistilling the phenol solvent with aluminum turnings and sodium bicarbonate and by washing the filter paper with 1% oxalic acid.
Prevalence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) by Nugent’s criteria in a non-clinic national sample of young women entering the military: relationships with sexual experience, vaginal symptoms and signs

rency, partners having more than one partner during a time period, has been found to increase the risk of STIs. Purpose: To determine whether the association of sex partner concurrency and risk for current STIs varies by STI prevalence in geographic areas among female adolescents in Baltimore City. Methods: Sexually active 14–19 year olds were recruited for a longitudinal study between August 2000 and June 2002 from two urban clinics. Trained interviewers conducted face-to-face structured interviews eliciting information on participants and their most recent main sex partner. Urine specimens were collected for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) LCR testing. Each participant’s primary residential address was geocoded to a Census 2000 census block group. STD surveillance information from 1994–1999 of gonorrhea case rates per census block group per 15–39 year olds per 100,000 were linked to the participant’s census block group information. Univariate associations between current CT and/or GC infection and sex partner concurrency and gonorrhea rate (categorized into 25th percentiles) in the participant’s census block group were conducted on baseline information. Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio of CT and/or GC infection of the participant (dependent) associated with the main effects of and interactions between sex partner concurrency and STI prevalence in geographic areas. Results: Univariate associations between CT and/or GC infection were not significant for sex partner concurrency and gonorrhea rate per census block group. However, multivariate logistic regression identified concurrency and an interaction between concurrency and STI prevalence in geographic areas as being significantly associated with current CT and/or GC infection. The interaction showed that among participants living in high prevalence geographic areas, having a concurrent sex partner was significantly associated with a current STI. Among participants living in low prevalence geographic areas, having a concurrent sex partner was not significantly associated with current STI in the index participant. Conclusions: The results show geographic context and sex partner concurrency have combined effects on current STI risk. The literature holds that sex partner behaviors are associated with risk of acquiring an STI, however, our results suggest an adolescent’s geographic context moderates the effect of partner behaviors. Our research adds to the basic understanding of STD transmission and acquisition in a high prevalence inner city. Further research is warranted into the effect of geography on STI acquisition.
Width of a planetary ring system and the C-ring of Saturn

The growth of particles in a planetary ring system is considered with reference to the C-ring of Saturn. Small particles arising from various sources collide with and temporarily adhere to larger particles, and the paper presents a mathematical analysis of the conditions under which the small particles will stay long enough on the surface of the larger ones so that a permanent bond will develop. It is initially assumed that the only force acting between the particles is gravitational attraction, and upper and lower limits for the width of a planetary ring are determined. The effects of van der Waals forces are then considered.
Magnetic measurements of CeAl3 to below 1 mK

The magnetic susceptibility of a polycrystalline, single-phase sample of CeAl{sub 3} has been measured from 10 K to below 800 {mu}K. Above 40 mK, the temperature dependence of the susceptibility is consistent with the results of other groups and possesses a broad peak around 500 mK. Using standard rf superconducting-quantum-interference-device detection techniques operating at 16 Hz, the sample, which was located in a shielded environment having a residual static field of less than 2 nT, was not observed to show any magnetic anomaly from 40 mK down to the lowest achievable temperature.