cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices and usefulness of a standardized strategy to reduce drive-line infections

Background Drive-line infection (DLI) is a common complication of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support, leading to significant morbidity that jeopardizes the benefits of these devices. It has been reported that DLI incidence is related to drive-line dressing strategies. The aim of this study was to determine whether implementation of a standardized drive-line care kit would reduce the incidence of DLIs. Methods DLI data were collected prospectively on all LVAD patients implanted between 2009 and 2013 at Columbia University Medical Center. Drive-line care was altered on June 1, 2011, from a dry sterile dressing without a standard anchoring device to a standardized kit, which included silver gauze dressing and a standard anchoring device. The silver dressing was used until the wound incorporated, with a minimum of 1 month. Results During the study period, 107 patients were implanted with LVADs before implementation of a standardized kit (Group A) and 159 thereafter (Group B). Median follow-up time (censoring at June 2011) for Group A was 8.73 (IQR 3.51 to 17.47) months and 11.65 (IQR 6.66 to 35.20) months for Group B ( p = 0.17). DLI event rate improved from 0.18 to 0.07 event per patient-year, corresponding to a relative risk reduction of 62.5%. In addition, the 1-year freedom from infection was significantly increased in Group B (92.46%) compared with Group A (81.94%) (log rank=0.036). Conclusion The use of a standardized kit, including silver dressing and a standard anchoring device, leads to decrease in DLI with an absolute risk reduction of 11%. Routine use of these dressing techniques is warranted based on our findings, and may lead to reduction of complications related to infections.
Comparisons of Positron And Electron Scattering By Gases

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews many of the interesting comparisons, primarily experimental measurements that can be made between positron and electron scattering by the same atoms and molecules with the hope that these comparisons may help to stimulate a better overall understanding of electron scattering processes. The chapter explains most of the experimental results. The e+ and e– cross section measurements of a given group have been made in the same experimental system with the same technique. The relative comparisons between e+ and e– measurements will be more meaningful than the actual quantitative values because many of the potential experimental errors would be the same for e+ and e– measurements, and as a result not affect the relative comparisons. An important motivation for investigating the scattering of positrons by atoms and molecules provides a better understanding of the scattering of electrons by atoms and molecules, the latter being of importance in many different fields of science and technology such as plasma physics, laser development, gaseous electronics, astrophysics, and aeronomy. As positrons differ from electrons only by the signs of their electric charge, comparison measurements of the scattering of positrons and electrons by the same atoms and molecules can reveal interesting similarities and differences that arise from the basic interactions contributing to e+ ,– scattering.
Real-Time Annotation Tool (RAT)

A variety of tools have been developed to bring about the realization of pervasive context-aware systems. However, there are still many challenges faced by such applications when trying to determine the context of who, what, when, where, why and how activities are being performed. One such challenge is obtaining the necessary data to train such context-aware systems. In this paper we present a real-time annotation tool which has been developed to streamline the process of collecting and annotating data in an experimental setting. By decreasing the amount of time needed to collect and annotate data, we can increase the rate at which applications can be developed and trained to recognize the current context and react accordingly. These applications can then deliver relevant information in a timely manner supporting a broad range of tasks.
Tail index estimation with a fixed tuning parameter fraction

Abstract Semi-parametric tail index estimators, such as the Hill, Harmonic Moment, Pickands, and Dekkers, Einmahl and de Haan estimators, rely upon a tuning parameter that typically grows with sample size n . Proper selection of this tuning parameter k = k ( n ) is crucial for good practical performance, although asymptotic theory dictates that 1 / k + k / n → 0 as n → ∞ . A similar issue presents itself in the bandwidth literature in spectral density estimation and recent research shows that the use of asymptotic distributions when the bandwidth is a fixed ratio of sample size yields improved approximations to finite-sample distributions. Here, we study some semi-parametric tail index estimators utilizing the same perspective where k = b n and b ∈ ( 0 , 1 ) is a fixed constant. This allows us to derive asymptotic bias and variance expressions which are compatible with the small- b conventional theory. Our simulations corroborate that the finite-sample bias and variance are well described by the asymptotic bias and variance quantities arising from our fixed bandwidth ratio theory.
Complement-Fixation Analysis of Four Subtypes of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Type A

Complement-fixation patterns were established for four subtypes of foot-and-mouth disease virus by block assays against homologous and heterologous antiserum. Inhibition of fixation by excess antigen was observed in most homologous systems but rarely in the heterologous systems. The heterologous antibody titers were, in all instances, considerably lower than those for the homologous systems. Although relatively high dilutions of antiserum may be desirable for subtyping, higher concentrations of antibody should be used for determining serological types.
Beginning and ending an actin filament: control at the barbed end.

Abstract Dynamic actin filaments contribute to cell migration, organelle movements, memory, and gene regulation. These dynamic processes are often regulated by extracellular and⧸or cell cycle signals. Regulation targets, not actin itself, but the factors that determine it's dynamic properties. Thus, filament nucleation, rate and duration of elongation, and depolymerization are each controlled with regard to time and⧸or space. Two mechanisms exist for nucleating filaments de novo, the Arp23 complex and the formins; multiple pathways regulate each. A new filament elongates rapidly but transiently before its barbed end is capped. Rapid capping allows the cell to maintain fine temporal and spatial control over F-actin distribution. Modulation of capping protein activity and its access to barbed ends is emerging as a site of local regulation. Finally, to maintain a steady state filaments must depolymerize. Depolymerization can limit the rate of new filament nucleation and elongation. The activity of ADF⧸cofilin, which facilitates depolymerization, is also regulated by multiple inputs. This chapter describes (1) mechanism and regulation of new filament formation, (2) mechanism of enhancing elongation at barbed ends, (3) capping proteins and their regulators, and (4) recycling of actin monomers from filamentous actin (F-actin) back to globular actin (G-actin).
Determination of Viability and Infectivity of Dictyocaulus viviparus Larvae after Storage

Infective third stage Dictyocaulus viviparus larvae were tested for viability by direct microscopic examination, ability to exsheath in pepsin HCl solution and ability to infect guinea-pigs, at intervals during storage for 12 weeks at 4°C. The percentage of larvae judged to be alive by visual examination remained high throughout the experiment. The ability to exsheath fell gradually, but only slightly, during the latter half of the period and was still 75% at 12 weeks. The ability to infect guinea-pigs, however, began to fall between 2 and 4 weeks and fell rapidly after 4 weeks, remaining at about 20% during the third month.
Genetic Basis of the Biodegradation of Salicylate in Pseudomonas

The genetic basis of the biodegradation of salicylate in Pseudomonas putida R1 has been studied. This strain utilizes the meta pathway for oxidizing salicylate through formation of catechol and 2-hydroxymuconic semialdehyde. The enzymes of the meta pathway are induced by salicylate but not by catechol, and the genes specifying these enzymes are clustered. The gene cluster can be eliminated from some salicylate-positive cells by treatment with mitomycin C and appears to exist inside the cell as an extrachromosomal element. This extrachromosomal gene cluster, termed the SAL plasmid, can be transferred by conjugation from P. putida R1 to a variety of other Pseudomonas species.
Quality of Care

Pressure ulcer prevention and care is an indicator of quality care across all healthcare settings. Evaluating pressure ulcer quality of care is complicated by multiple quality indicators developed by multiple organizations which are applied in different care settings. Regulations related to pressure ulcer care in different care settings creates further complexity. While a wealth of pressure ulcer clinical practice guidelines exist, evidence of implementation of practice guidelines with sustainability is lacking. This chapter explores pressure ulcer quality of care. We review outcome and process measures related to pressure ulcer prevention, present current pressure ulcer regulations and quality indicators, and recommend specific strategies for implementing pressure ulcer prevention programs all of which are essential for improving pressure ulcer quality of care.
Nickel allergy from a bed-wetting alarm confused with herpes genitalis and child abuse.

The evaluation of vesicular genital rashes can be challenging for the pediatrician. The presence of an unusual genital rash should raise the concern of sexual abuse. In recent years awareness of child sexual abuse and its various presentations has increased through both lay and medical literature. When the possibility of sexual abuse arises, historical data may be difficult to elicit and can be misleading. The decision to investigate further may be based on the clinical appearance and location of the rash and the physician9s level of suspicion. In this setting, the differential diagnosis of genital rashes in children assumes tremendous importance.
Enantioselective Microbial Transformation of the Phenylpyrazole Insecticide Fipronil in Anoxic Sediments

Fipronil, a chiral insecticide, was biotransformed initially to fipronil sulfide in anoxic sediment slurries following a short lag period. Sulfidogenic or methanogenic sediments transformed fipronil with half-lives of approximately 35 and 40 days, respectively. In all microbially active sediment slurries tested, the transformation of fipronil to fipronil sulfide was enantioselective. In the sulfidogenic sediment slurry, the enantiomeric fraction (EF) of fipronil decreased from an initial racemic EF value of 0.46 to a value of 0.22 during the incubation period of active fipronil transformation, indicating preferential transformation of the S-(+)-enantiomer. A previously unidentified product, 5-amino-1-[2,6-dichloro-4-(trifluoromethyl)-phenyl]-4-(trifluoromethylthio)-1-H-pyrazole-3-carboxyamide, or fipronil sulfide-amide, was detected in the sulfidogenic slurries and coincided with the loss of fipronil sulfide. Biota from methanogenic freshwater sediment slurries also transformed fipronil enantioselectively...
Proinflammatory cytokines in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases.

The cytokine responses characterizing the inflammatory bowel diseases are the key pathophysiologic elements that govern the initiation, evolution, and, ultimately, the resolution of these forms of inflammation. Studies during the last 2 decades now provide a detailed (but not yet complete) picture of the nature of these responses. The first tier of cytokine responses are governed by the T-cell differentiation patterns dominating the disease. In Crohn's disease, the major cytokines arise from T-helper cell (Th) 1 and Th17 CD4+ T-cell differentiation and consist of interferon-γ and interleukin (IL)-17/IL-22 generated by these types of differentiation. The relative importance of these cytokines to Crohn's inflammation is still unclear, although evidence is mounting that interferon-γ is primus inter pare (first among equals). In contrast, in ulcerative colitis, a Th2-like differentiation process is paramount, which results in expansion of natural killer T cells producing IL-13 (and perhaps IL-5). These disease-specific cytokine patterns give rise to a second tier of cytokines that span the Th1/Th17–Th2 divide and act as upstream facilitators and downstream mediators of inflammation. These cytokines include the well-known tumor necrosis factor–α, IL-1β, IL-6 triumphirate, as well as a more recently studied cytokine known as TL1A (tumor necrosis factor–like ligand). In this review, we will explore this cytokine landscape with the view of providing an understanding of how recent and future anticytokine therapies actually function.
Characteristics of arsenic accumulation by Pteris and non-Pteris ferns

This research was conducted to understand the mechanisms of arsenic hyperaccumulation in Pteris vittata by comparing the characteristics of arsenic accumulation in Pteris and non-Pteris ferns. Seven Pteris (P.vittata, P. Cretica Rowerii, P. Cretica Parkerii, P. Cretica Albo-lineata, P. Quadriavrita, P. Ensiformis and P. Dentata) and six non-Pteris (Arachnoides simplicor, Didymochlaena truncatula, Dryopteris atrata, Dryopteris erythrosora, Cyrtomium falcatum, and Adiantum hispidulum) ferns were exposed to 0, 1 and 10 mgL−1 arsenic as sodium arsenate for 14-d in hydroponic systems. As a group, the Pteris ferns were more efficient in arsenic accumulation than the non-Pteris ferns, with P. vittata being the most efficient followed by P. cretica. When exposed to 10 mg L−1 As, arsenic concentrations in the fronds and roots of P. vittata were 1748 and 503 mg kg−1. Though not all Pteris ferns were efficient in accumulating arsenic, none of the non-Pteris ferns was an efficient As accumulator (the highest concentration being 452 mg kg−1). The fact that frond arsenic concentrations in the control were highly correlated with those exposed to As (r 2 = 0.76–0.87) may suggest that they may be used as a preliminary tool to screen potential arsenic hyperaccumulators. Our research confirms that the ability of P. vittata to translocate arsenic from the roots to the fronds (73–77% As in the fronds), reduce arsenate to arsenite in the fronds (>50% AsIII in the fronds), and maintain high concentrations of phosphate in the roots (48–53% in the roots) all contributed to its arsenic tolerance and hyperaccumulation.
Lesions of the dopaminergic nigrostriatal system in neonatal rats: effects on the electrophysiological activity of striatal neurons recorded during adulthood.

Abstract The spontaneous activity of single striatal neurons was recorded extracellularly from 3–4 month-old adult rats that had been given dopamine (DA)-depleting brain lesions 3 days after birth. Behavioral observations made prior to recording indicated no gross sensorimotor deficits, yet subsequent biochemical analyses revealed that animals had sustained near-total DA depletions (>99%) . Electrophysiological results showed that the firing rates of type II striatal cells were greatly increased relative to control levels. This finding contrasts sharply with the effects of DA-depleting brain lesions given to adult animals, in which similarly high levels of striatal cell activity are invariably associated with akinesia.
Memory and personality: An information processing approach

Abstract A consensual model of memory, based on information processing theory is presented. The experimental literature on the interaction between memory and personality is reviewed in terms of this model. It is suggested that past study in this area has failed to utilize the knowledge and techniques of information processing theory, and as a result, has confounded experimental variables. Suggestions for more appropriate research are presented.
Structure and plastic deformation of polyethylene

A review is given of the structure of semi-crystalline polymers and the mechanisms of plastic deformation in them. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is taken as the specific example because of the large number of detailed studies performed on this material. The early findings are also compared and contrasted with very recent detailed large-strain deformation studies and computer simulations of deformation-induced texture development in HDPE.
Efficient and Robust Fitting of Lognormal Distributions

Abstract In parametric modeling of loss distributions in actuarial science, a versatile choice with intermediate tail weight is the lognormal distribution. Surprisingly, however, the fitting of this model using estimators that are at once efficient and robust has not been seriously addressed in the extensive literature. Consequently, typical estimators of the lognormal mean and variance fail to be both efficient and robust. In particular, the highly efficient maximum likelihood estimators lack robustness because of their limited sensitivity to outliers in the sample. For the two-parameter lognormal estimation problem, the author considers the problem of efficient and robust joint estimation of the mean and variance of a normal model. He introduces generalized-median-type estimators that yield efficient and robust estimators of various parameters of interest in the lognormal model. The paper provides detailed treatment of the lognormal mean and discusses extension of the approach to the much more complicat...
Successful pregnancies from cryopreserved human embryos produced by in vitro fertilization.

Abstract Sixty-three embryos produced after in vitro fertilization in 30 infertile couples were frozen and stored. Dimethylsuffoxide was used as a cryoprotectant and embryos were frozen from the two-cell stage to early blastocyst development. Replacement occurred during spontaneous ovulatory cycles 2 to 15 months after embryo freezing. Embryo replacement was performed 3 to 6 days following identification of the luteinizing hormone surge in the spontaneous cycle. Thirty-five embryos were replaced into 25 women and two viable pregnancies resulted.
Development and characterization of microsatellite markers for the canine hookworm, Ancylostoma caninum

Microsatellites are repetitive genomic elements that show high levels of variation and therefore provide excellent tools to study the genetics of eukaryotic organisms. Hookworms are extremely common and important nematode parasites of humans and animals, causing potentially serious disease morbidity. Control of hookworms in dogs is achieved by frequent treatment with anthelmintics, and in humans, anthelmintics are frequently administered in a mass-treatment community-wide approach. Understanding the population genetics of hookworms has important implications for studies on the development and spread of drug resistance. We investigated the genome of Ancylostoma caninum for microsatellites by developing and then screening an enriched genomic library as well as by data mining published sequences of a whole genome shotgun library. Investigations revealed a high abundance of trinucleotide repeats. Dinucleotide repeats were characterized by a high number of AT, GA, and GT repeats. After testing and optimization of 68 markers, a panel of 34 polymorphic microsatellite markers were selected. Microsatellite analysis of hookworm isolates revealed a high degree of polymorphism, which was not influenced by the length of the repeats. This panel of microsatellite markers makes it possible to pursue investigations on the population genetics of A. caninum. Furthermore, a number of the markers demonstrated suitability for analysis of the human hookworm species Necator americanus and A. duodenale.
An Extrapolated Yield Approximation Technique for Use in Yield Maximization

This paper is concerned with the computational problem of maximizing the yield of circuits. A statistical Monte Carlo based approach is taken in order to compute yield estimates directly and to decrease dimensionality dependence. The main contribution of this paper is a yield extrapolation technique which is very effective in maximizing the yield along a search direction. This technique is based upon a quadratic model of the circuit. Statistical yield estimates are computed from the model and correlated sampling is used to extrapolate along the search direction. Two simple methods for determining search directions are discussed and these are used to demonstrate the overall method through several examples.
Sleep Abnormalities and Treatment in Emphysema

Sleep abnormalities are common in severe emphysema, and include poor sleep quality, the development of nocturnal oxygen desaturation, and the presence of coexistent obstructive sleep apnea. With lower baseline oxygenation and abnormal respiratory mechanics in patients with severe emphysema, alterations in ventilatory control and respiratory muscle function that normally occur during sleep can have profound effects, and contribute to the development of sleep abnormalities. The impact on quality of life, cardiopulmonary hemodynamics, and overall survival remains uncertain. In addition, treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and its effect on sleep abnormalities have demonstrated conflicting results. More recently, as part of the National Emphysema Treatment Trial, lung volume reduction surgery has been shown to improve both sleep quality and nocturnal oxygenation in emphysema. Although indications for performing an overnight polysomnogram in patients with emphysema have been debated, recommendations have been presented. Future studies investigating disease mechanism and response to therapy in patients with sleep abnormalities and severe emphysema are warranted.
Fiber-Optic Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy of Small Renal Masses: Toward Real-Time Optical Diagnostic Biopsy

Purpose: The incidental detection of small renal masses is increasing. However, not all require aggressive treatments as up to 20% are benign and the majority of malignant tumors harbor indolent features. Improved preoperative diagnostics are needed to differentiate tumors requiring aggressive treatment from those more suitable for surveillance. We evaluated and compared confocal laser endomicroscopy with standard histopathology in ex vivo human kidney tumors as proof of principle towards diagnostic optical biopsy.Materials and Methods: Patients with a solitary small renal mass scheduled for partial or radical nephrectomy were enrolled in study. Two kidneys were infused with fluorescein via intraoperative intravenous injection and 18 tumors were bathed ex vivo in dilute fluorescein prior to confocal imaging. A 2.6 mm confocal laser endomicroscopy probe was used to image tumors and surrounding parenchyma from external and en face surfaces after specimen bisection. Confocal laser endomicroscopy images were ...
Pulse Injection, 13C Tracer Studies of Lactate Metabolism in Humans During Rest and Two Levels of Exercise

In order to determine the role of lactic acid as a metabolic substrate during exercise, the extent of its oxidation was studied using (13C) lactate under three different metabolic conditions in two subjects. During rest, easy exercise (work below the lactate inflection point), and hard exercise (work above the lactate inflection point), 100 mg of Na+-D,L(+)-2,3-(13C) lactate was injected via an indwelling catheter inserted in an antecubital vein. Blood as well as expired gas samples were collected up to 2 h post-injection. Subjects worked at average intensities of 53% and 74% VO2max during easy and hard exercise, respectively. During rest and easy exercise, blood lactate concentrations remained stable at 1-2 nM. During hard exercise, blood lactate increased to 3-4 times those observed at rest. Excretion of 13CO2 peaked much sooner and enrichment of 13C in CO2 was greater during both exercise intensities than during rest. Cumulative recovery of injected 13C as 13CO2 averaged 13.2 and 86.2% through 120 min during rest and easy exercise. Through 45 min of hard exercise, recovery of tracer as CO2 was the same as during a similar time point of easy exercise, 51.8%. The results support the contention that oxidation is the major fate of lactate during exercise.
Elastic fibers in the anulus fibrosus of the dog intervertebral disc.

A light microscopic investigation of the anulus fibrosus in cervical intervertebral discs of the dog was conducted to ascertain the arrangement and distribution of elastic fibers. Elastic fibers were
The effect of pressure on the phase diagram of mixed dipalmitoyl-dymyristoylphosphatidylcholine bilayers

Abstract The application of 136 atm of helium pressure to suspensions of mixed dipalmitoyl-dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine bilayers caused a 3–5°C elevation of points on the envelope of the binary phase diagram. Membrane bilayers containing lateral phase separations are able to respond to external pressure by converting fluid phase phospholipids to the more compact gel phase.
A Legionella pneumophila Peptidyl-Prolyl cis-trans Isomerase Present in Culture Supernatants Is Necessary for Optimal Growth at Low Temperatures

Several Legionella pneumophila proteins were highly expressed in low-temperature supernatants. One of these proteins was the peptidyl-prolyl isomerase PpiB. Mutants lacking ppiB exhibited reduced growth at 17°C. Since PpiB lacked a signal sequence and was present in 17°C supernatants of type II and type IV secretion mutants, this protein may be secreted by a novel mechanism.
An Improved Method to Extract Very‐Broadband Empirical Green’s Functions from Ambient Seismic Noise

The extraction of Green’s functions by cross correlation of continuous seismic records at station pairs is best achieved in a diffuse wave field, where energies radiated by random sources have equal power. To partially satisfy the diffuse wave‐field condition, original seismic records must be normalized as they are highly nonstationary and may have amplitude variations of orders of magnitude within the cross‐correlation time window. We adapt a frequency–time normalization method to obtain seismograms with an even spectrum at all times within the data‐processing unit. Compared with the commonly used one‐bit normalization, the new method improves the signal‐to‐noise ratio of empirical Green’s functions by a factor of ∼2 and increases the effective data‐recording duration by a factor of 4, assuming random local and instrument noise. It yields useful Rayleigh waves at periods up to 300 s for Program for Array Seismic Studies of the Continental Lithosphere (PASSCAL)–type deployments and 600 s for permanent stations with very‐broadband sensors. Thus, the new method makes it possible to extend surface‐wave signals to frequencies beyond those in traditional earthquake‐based surface‐wave tomography at both the high‐ and low‐frequency ends.
The Sertoli cell junctional specialization during spermiogenesis and at spermiation

The relationship between developing spermatids and Sertoli cell junctional specializations was studied with the electron microscope during spermiogenesis and at spermiation. At stage I of the seminiferous cycle, the newly formed spermatids are found in apposition to junctional specializations at the lateral surfaces of the Sertoli cell. Visualization of the junctional site of this early stage appears to be dependent on orientation and plane of section. As differentiation proceeds, the spermatids elongate and come to lie within deep recesses of the Sertoli cell. At this time the junctional specialization is limited to the acrosomal portion of the spermatid. During the maturation phase, the spermatids, while maintaining the same relationship to the junctional specialization, approach the lumen. When stage VIII of the cycle is reached, the stage in which spermiation occurs, the spermatids are at the luminal surface. The relationship of the spermatid head to the junctional specializations is quite variable during this stage. Some spermatids are observed still attached to the Sertoli cell at the junctional site, while others are found completely or partially surrounded by Sertoli cytoplasm, but with no evidence of the normally interposed junctional specialization. Yet, in other instances, the spermatids are observed in a position slightly removed from the junctional site. Also evident are profiles of junctional specializations at a free surface of the Sertoli cell, there being no attached spermatid. In some instances the junctional specializations appeared in apposition to a residual body. In the case of the free surface profiles, the junctional specialization at times lined an empty cleft or crypt-like recess, giving the impression that the spermatid head had just been dislodged from the junctional contact site. The findings indicate that the spermatid is in contact with a junctional specialization from its initial appearance and remains so until spermiation is initiated. It is postulated that spermiation is initiated through a physiological change in the junctional specialization resulting in loss of adhesion and consequent release of the sperm head from its attachment site. A similar mechanism is proposed in relation to the inter-Sertoli junctional complex to account for the means by which the spermatocytes cross this barrier to reach the adluminal compartment of the seminiferous epithelium.
Some Tests for Homoscedasticity

Abstract Two exact tests are presented for testing the hypothesis that the residuals from a least squares regression are homoscedastic. The results can be used to test the hypothesis that a linear [ratio] model explains the relationship between variables as opposed to the alternative that the ratio [linear] specification is correct. The first test is parametric and uses the F-statistic. The second test is nonparametric and uses the number of peaks in the ordered sequence of unsigned residuals. In conclusion, the results of some experimental calculations of the powers of the tests are discussed.
Calciumm-dependent release of endogenous serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine from nerve endings

Abstract The release of endogenous serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid was studied in static incubations of synaptosome (P 2 ) preparations from the telencephalon of the rat. Elevated potassium medium specifically stimulated the release of the biogenic monoamines while the deaminated metabolite of serotonin was not effected. The release of the monoamines was also sensitive in part to the presence of calcium in the incubation medium.
TH‐A‐BRA‐11: Treatment‐Induced Dosimetric/Volume Changes During the Course of Radiotherapy for Lung Cancer

Purpose: To investigate the necessity for adaptive radiation therapy (RT) in lungcancerIMRTtreatments by quantifying tumor changes during radiotherapy and the associated impact on target, lung and esophagus. Methods: As part of an IRB‐approved lungdose escalation study, contrasted CT scans were acquired on 15 patients prior to RT and in the 2nd and 5th week of treatment (total dose=58–70 Gy, 2Gy/fraction). Target, lung and esophagus volumes were segmented in all CT datasets. The original plan was recomputed on the subsequent CT sets and doses were accumulated by deformable registration to approximate the actual delivery. Five patients with the largest tumor shrinkage were selected and re‐planned on the 2nd and 5th week CT sets. The plans were summed to mimic adaptive radiation therapy. Comparisons were made between the approximated actual treatment, summation of the re‐optimized plans, and the original plan. Comparison metrics included QUANTEC dose parameters, equivalent uniform dose (EUD), maximum dose and target coverage (unless otherwise stated, all percentage changes in results are with respect to the original plan, averaged over all patients). Results: The approximated actual delivery had significantly increased lungdose‐ volume/EUD (V5 =8.19%, V20 = 4.14%, EUD = 5.95%). Tumor shrinkage‐ induced esophageal volume outside the originally segmented volume (3.4%–101.8%) was significant. Elevated esophagus EUD (7.27%) and spinal cord maximum dose (6.7%) were observed in most patients. PTV/GTV volumes receiving 100% of prescription dose decreased (week 2/5 PTV = −10.0%/‐ 6.88%, week 2/5 GTV = ‐6.7%/−4.1%), along with slightly increased dose to the highest 1 % of volume. Compared to the approximated actual delivery, re‐optimized plans overall showed superiority in lowered dose to the esophagus (V35=−40.32%, EUD =−13.42%), lungs (V5=−4.18%, V20=− 10.66%) and spinal cord (Dmax=−22.98%). Conclusions: RT‐induced esophageal volume displacement and increased lungdose during treatment are significant, warranting re‐plan in cases where large tumor changes are expected.
Neurocognitive Enhancement Therapy and Competitive Employment in Schizophrenia: Effects on Clients with Poor Community Functioning

Neurocognitive enhancement therapy (NET) has been shown to improve executive function and working memory and to improve work therapy outcomes. The current study applied NET to a vocational program (VOC) in the community that included transitional funds with supported employment. NET + VOC achieved higher rates of competitive employment and more total hours worked during the 12-month follow-up period, This report examines the relationship between community function at intake and vocational outcomes by condition. Method: 72 outpatients with diagnoses of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder were evaluated on Heinrich's Quality of Life Scale and randomized to NET + VOC or to VOC only. Active intervention was 12 months with 12-month follow-up. Follow-up rate was 100% for the intent-to-treat sample. Results: When the sample was divided into higher and lower community functioning, logistic regression found significant effects for level of community function and for condition. Most of the difference between ...
Reading disability in twins.

SUMMARY The incidence of reading disability in 676 twin children was 14.5 per cent, somewhat higher than the figure usually given for the general population (10 per cent). Monozygotic twins were concordant for reading disability in 84 per cent of the pairs, dizygotic twins in 29 per cent, a significant difference (p <.001). These findings support the view that the basis for reading disability is principally genetic. Social deprivation was not a factor since all the children came from middle-income families. There was no difference between the mean birth-weights of readers and non-readers. The incidence of reading disability was no higher in twins weighing less than 2.50kg at birth than in those who weighed more. RESUME Inaptitude a la lecture chez les jumeaux La frequence de l'inaptitude a la lecture chez 676 jumeaux a ete trouvee de 14,5 pour cent, chiffre legerement superieur au 10 pour cent le plus souvent observe dans la population generale. En cas d'inaptitude a la lecture, on a releve une concordance de 84 pour cent pour les paires monozygotes et 29 pour cent pour les paires dizygotes. Ces chiffres sont en faveur d'une origine genetique de l'inaptitude a la lecture. La defaillance du milieu social ne peut etre envisagee car tous les enfants de cette etude viennent de la classe socio-economique moyenne. II n'a ete observe aucune relation entre le poids de naissance et l'inaptitude a la lecture. ZUSAMMENFASSUNG Leseunfahigkeit bei Zwillingen Die Haufigkeit der Leseunfahigkeit bei 676 Zwillingskindern wurde mit 14,5 Prozent gefunden; diese liegt etwas hoher als die 10 Prozent, die gewohnlich fur die Allgemeinbe-volkerung angegeben werden Leseunfahigkeit kam bei 84 Prozent der eineiigen und nur bei 29 Proznet der zweieigen Zwillinge vor. Diese Befunde stutzen die Theorie einer genetischen Atiologie der Leseunfahigkeit. Soziale Faktoren spielten keine Rolle, da alle Kinder dieser Studie zu der mittleren sozio-okonomischen Klasse gehorten. Es bestand keine Beziehung zwischen Geburtsgewicht und Leseunfahigkeit. RESUMEN Dificultad en la lectura en gemelos La incidencia en la dificultad en la lectura en 676 gemelos fue del 14,5 por ciento, una incidencia ligeramente superior que la cifra del 10 por ciento dada habitualmente para la poblacion general. Cuando existio una dificultad para la lectura, habia una concordancia en el 84 por ciento de los gemelos monozigotos, en comparacion con una concordancia de un 29 por ciento en los dizigotos. Estos hallazgos aportan el criterio de que la base de la dificultad en la lectura es genetica. La deprivacion social no era un factor, ya que todos los ninos de este estudio provenian de un grupo socio-economico medio. No se encontro ninguna relacion entre el peso de nacimiento y la capacidad para la lectura.
Interdisciplinary studies in science, technology, and society: “New Directions: Science, Humanities, Policy”

Abstract This introductory paper reviews the origin and context of the articles assembled in the following special issue of Technology in Society . In March 2006 a workshop on the Hurricane Katrina disaster of August 2005 in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast attempted to promote interdisciplinary deliberations that would identify contributions that the humanities might make to an understanding of the many interactions between technology and society—interactions that were at the heart of this catastrophe and thus critical to an effective, long-term response. The workshop was itself another activity in an ongoing interdisciplinary effort known as “New Directions: Science, Humanities, Policy.” This paper thus summarizes previous workshops in this project before briefly commenting on the twelve papers and their themes.
Social and economic factors in prosthodontic practice and education

Prosthodontics represents a highly developed body of knowledge and skill that spans multiple disciplines. Numerous studies can be cited that address biologic, mechanical, or materials science factors that influence decisions about patient care. On a daily basis as clinicians, teachers, or patients, we experience an interplay of social, economic, and psychologic conditions that similarly influence treatment decisions. This article explored a rationale for including a clear, explicit emphasis on knowledge and skill development for prosthodontic practice and education related to social, psychologic, and economic factors.
Application of the nonlinear Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition to study racial/ethnic disparities in antiobesity medication use in the United States.

Abstract Background The nonlinear Blinder-Oaxaca (BO) decomposition method is gaining popularity in health services research because of its ability to explain disparity issues. The present study demonstrates the use of this method for categorical variables by addressing antiobesity medication use disparity. Objective To examine racial/ethnic disparity in antiobesity medication use and to quantify the observed factor contribution behind the disparity using the nonlinear BO decomposition. Methods Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data, 2002-2007, were used in this retrospective cross-sectional study. Adults with body mass index (BMI) >30, or BMI ≥27 and comorbidities such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia were included in the cohort (N = 65,886,625). Multivariable logistic regression was performed to examine racial/ethnic disparity in antiobesity medication use controlling for predisposing, enabling, and need factors. The nonlinear BO decomposition was used to identify the contribution of each predisposing, enabling, and need factors in explaining the racial/ethnic disparity and to estimate the residual unexplained disparity. Results Non-Hispanic Blacks were 46% (odds ratio [OR]: 0.54; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.35-0.83) less likely to use antiobesity drugs compared with non-Hispanic Whites, whereas no difference was observed between Hispanics and non-Hispanic Whites. A 0.22 percentage point of disparity existed between non-Hispanic Whites and Blacks. The nonlinear BO decomposition estimated a decomposition coefficient of −0.0013 indicating that the observed disparity would have been 58% higher (−0.0013/0.0022) if non-Hispanic Blacks had similar observed characteristics as non-Hispanic Whites. Age, gender, marital status, region, and BMI were significant factors in the decomposition model; only marital status explained the racial/ethnic disparity among all observed characteristics. Conclusions The study revealed that differences in the predisposing, enabling, and need characteristics (except marital status) did not successfully explain the racial/ethnic disparity in antiobesity medication use. Further studies examining racial/ethnic differences in individual beliefs, behavioral patterns, and provider prescription patterns are vital to understand these disparities.
Redox reactions of the iron-sulfur cluster in a ribosomal RNA methyltransferase, RumA: optical and EPR studies.

Abstract An unprecedented [4Fe-4S] iron-sulfur cluster was found in RumA, the enzyme that methylates U1939 in Escherichia coli 23 S ribosomal RNA (Agarwalla, S., Kealey, J. T., Santi, D. V., and Stroud, R. M. (2002) J. Biol. Chem. 277, 8835–8840; Lee, T. T., Agarwalla, S., and Stroud, R. M. (2004) Structure 12, 397–407). Methyltransferase reactions do not involve a redox step. To understand the structural and functional roles of the cluster in RumA, we have characterized redox reactions of the iron-sulfur cluster. As isolated aerobically, RumA exhibits a visible absorbance maximum at 390 nm and is EPR silent. It cannot be reduced by anaerobic additions of dithionite. Photoreduction by deazariboflavin/EDTA gives EPR spectra, the quantity (56% of S = 1/2 species) and details (gav ∼ 1.96–1.93) of which indicate a [4Fe-4S]1+ cluster in the reduced RumA. Oxidation of RumA by ferricyanide leads to loss of the 390-nm band and appearance of lower intensity bands at 444 and 520 nm. EPR spectra of ferricyanide-oxidized RumA show a fraction (<8%) of the FeS cluster trapped in the [3Fe-4S]1+ form (gav ∼ 2.011) together with unusual radical-like spectrum (g′ values 2.015, 2.00, and 1.95). RumA also reacts with nitric oxide to give EPR spectra characteristic of the protein-bound iron dinitrosyl species. Oxidation of the cluster leads to its decomposition and that could be a mechanism for regulating the activity of RumA under conditions of oxidative stress in the cell. Sequence data base searches revealed that RumA homologs are widespread in various kingdoms of life and contain a conserved and unique iron-sulfur cluster binding motif, CX5CGGC.
Temperature and urea have opposing impacts on polyproline II conformational bias.

The native states of globular proteins have been accessed in atomic detail by X-ray crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, yet characterization of denatured proteins beyond global metrics has proven to be elusive. Denatured proteins have been observed to exhibit global geometric properties of a random coil polymer. However, this does not preclude the existence of nonrandom, local conformational bias that may be significant for protein folding and function. Indeed, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy and other methods have suggested that the denatured state contains considerable local bias to the polyproline II (PII) conformation. Here, we develop predictive models to determine the extent that temperature and the chemical denaturant urea modulate PII propensity. In agreement with our predictive model, PII propensity is observed experimentally to decrease with an increase in temperature. Conversely, urea appears to promote the PII conformation as determined by CD and isothermal titrat...
Weierstrass weights of fixed points of an involution

Let X be a curve with an involution T which fixes r points. We show that the Weierstrass weight of a fixed point is at least (r−2)(r−4)/8. Our proof is independent of the recent result of Torres.We consider the case where X=Fn, the nth Fermat curve, and T is any of the involutions of Fn. We find that our bound is equal to the actual weight in all known cases (n[les ]7) and compute then n=8 case to demonstrate that the equality continues to hold.
154 HYPERTENSION IN COAPTATION OF THE AORTA: THE ROLE OF THE RENIN-ANGIOTENSIN SYSTEM

The role of renal ischemia in coarctation of the aorta (CA) was assessed by comparing levels of plasma renin activity (PRA) in 6 patients with CA and 13 pts with essential hypertension(EH) The patients with CA ranged from 2 months to 17 years of age and were not receiving medications at the time of study. All had clinical and arteriographic evidence of CA and demonstrated resting gradients from 20 to 110 mmHg across the CA. Samples for PRA were obtained from the right renal vein (R-PRA), the left renal vein (L-PRA) and the lower inferior vena cava (I-PRA) before (Pre-F) and ten minutes after (Post-F) the administration of intravenous furosemide (1 mg/Kg). PRA (ng/ml/hr)was significantly higher in those with CA (P<.001 for all values). Furosemide increased PRA in both groups but the percentage increase was greater in those with EH (CA 35%; EH 100% for I-PRA). These results suggest an important role for the reninangiotensin system in the patients with CA.
RF MEMS phase shifter by microstereolithography on silicon

Fabrication process and numerical simulations of a distributed MEMS phase shifter fabricated on a high resistivity silicon substrate using microstereolithography technique is presented here. This fabrication technique enables reduction of the early development cost by removing the need for photomasks used for defining the MEMS bridges. The distributed MEMS phase shifter consists of a high- impedance coplanar waveguide transmission line and several MEMS bridges of 4.5 micrometers height. By applying an electrostatic voltage the height of these bridges can be adjusted. This result in a variation in the distributed capacitance of the segment of the transmission line, which manifests in the phase shift at the output terminal. Experimental efforts to improve its performance is presently underway. The fabrication procedure described here shows significant promise for the use of microstereolithography techniques for RF MEMS devices. Furthermore, the present derive is built on silicon substrate, and hence is compatible with conventional IC fabrication processes.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
West German Development in an Expanding World Economy

THE West German recovery has fired the imagination of observers to an unusual degree. From a defeated and despised enemy whose factories were bombed and whose productive power was to be destroyed forever by dismantling and control has emerged a new country with new economic power, an honored ally whose contributions to the economic progress of the world and to the maintenance of its military security are eagerly sought. Although it has been hailed by some as a miracle, responsible German statesmen as well as responsible economists have tried to minimize the role played by the supernatural in West German recovery. To attribute it to a successful free-enterprise market economy, to the German willingness to work, or to sheer good luck are explanations that contain a greater element of truth. As it is, we are fortunate that the emergence of a new and productive Germany has attracted two highly competent analysts, Horst Mendershausen and Henry C. Wallich. The phenomenon can be analyzed in various ways. The two books which are the occasion for this article complement each other to an astonishing degree. Both begin with the prewar years, and both deal with the postwar Germany that is allied with the West; references to the eastern part of the country chiefly register surprise that the surgical operation has not caused more damage than it seems to have done. Both authors possess fundamentally the same view of how the reemergence of Germany is to be explained. Even though Mendershausen uses the term "recovery" in his title, like Wallich he considers the postwar German development to be essentially a growth phenomenon; however, he is not quite as explicit on this point and does not provide a theoretical schema, as Wallich does. But this is about the extent of the similarity of treatment by the two