cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 728: AMG 337, a novel, potent and selective MET kinase inhibitor, has robust growth inhibitory activity in MET-dependent cancer models

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA Signaling through the MET receptor tyrosine kinase and its ligand, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), promotes cell proliferation, survival, and invasion. Activation of MET signaling is a relatively common hallmark of a diverse range of human cancer types, and as a result, inhibition of MET signaling represents an attractive therapeutic opportunity for the treatment of cancer. In this study, we describe the characterization of AMG 337, a potent and highly selective small molecule ATP-competitive MET kinase inhibitor that demonstrates robust activity in MET-dependent cancer models. In enzymatic assays, AMG 337 inhibited MET kinase activity with an IC50 of 10 μM in all other tested cell lines. Further studies in an expanded panel of additional cancer cell lines derived from gastric, NSCLC, and esophageal cancer confirmed that the in-vitro anti-proliferative activity of AMG 337 correlated with amplification of MET. In those cell lines, treatment with AMG 337 inhibited downstream PI3K and MAPK signaling pathways, which translated into growth arrest as evidenced by an accumulation of cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle, a concomitant reduction in DNA synthesis, and the induction of apoptosis. In vivo, oral administration of AMG 337 resulted in robust dose-dependent anti-tumor efficacy in MET amplified gastric cancer xenograft models, with inhibition of tumor growth consistent with the pharmacodynamic modulation of MET signaling. In conclusion, these findings illustrate the potential clinical utility of AMG 337 as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of tumors with evidence of dysregulated MET signaling, including MET amplification. A phase 1 clinical study is currently evaluating the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinectics of AMG 337 in patients with solid tumors. Citation Format: Paul E. Hughes, Yajing Yang, Karen Rex, Yihong Zhang, Paula J. Kaplan-Lefko, Sean Caenepeel, Jodi Moriguchi, Martin Broome, Deborah Choquette, Robert Radinsky, Richard Kendall, Angela Coxon, Isabelle Dussault. AMG 337, a novel, potent and selective MET kinase inhibitor, has robust growth inhibitory activity in MET-dependent cancer models. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 728. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-728
Autmatic parameter selection by minimizing estimated error

We address the problem of finding the parameter settings that will result in optimal performance of a given learning algorithm using a particular dataset as training data. We describe a “wrapper” method, considering determination of the best parameters as a discrete function optimization problem. The method uses best-first search and crossvalidation to wrap around the basic induction algorithm: the search explores the space of parameter values, running the basic algorithm many times on training and holdout sets produced by crossvalidation to get an estimate of the expected error of each parameter setting. Thus, the final selected parameter settings are tuned for the specific induction algorithm and dataset being studied. We report experiments with this method on 33 datasets selected from the UCI and StatLog collections using C4.5 as the basic induction algorithm. At a 90% confidence level, our method improves the performance of C4.5 on nine domains, degrades performance on one, and is statistically indistinguishable from C4.5 on the rest. On the sample of datasets used for comparison, our method yields an average 13% relative decrease in error rate. We expect to see similar performance improvements when using our method with other machine learning algorithms.
A cross-sectional evidence-based review of pharmaceutical promotional marketing brochures and their underlying studies: Is what they tell us important and true?

Background A major marketing technique used by pharmaceutical companies is direct-to-physician marketing. This form of marketing frequently employs promotional marketing brochures, based on clinical research, which may influence how a physician prescribes medicines. This study's objective was to investigate whether or not the information in promotional brochures presented to physicians by pharmaceutical representatives is accurate, consistent, and valid with respect to the actual studies upon which the promotional brochures are based.
Does robust regulation compromise H/sub 2/ performance?

The authors consider the problem of minimizing the H/sub 2/ norm of a feedback system subject to the constraint that the controller regulate robustly against constants and sinusoids. They show that for any in >0, there exists a controller that both achieves regulation and renders the closed-loop H/sub 2/ norm within in of the optimal norm (the norm achievable without the regulation constraint). Necessary and sufficient conditions are also given for when the optimal norm is achievable by a controller that regulates robustly. In all cases, controllers are exhibited by giving explicit state-space realizations that carry out the task. >
Interleukin-3-deficient mice have increased resistance to blood-stage malaria (MPF1P.764)

The contribution of interleukin-3 (IL-3), a hematopoietic growth factor and immunoregulatory cytokine, to resistance to blood-stage malaria was investigated by infecting IL-3 deficient (knockout [KO]) mice with Plasmodium berghei NK65. Male IL-3 KO mice, but not female mice, were more resistant to infection than wild-type (WT) mice, evidenced by lower peak parasitemia and prolonged survival. Both male and female IL-3 KO mice had increased splenomegaly and were more anemic than corresponding WT mice. Anemia was compensated for by an increase in bone marrow and splenic erythropoiesis in IL-3 KO mice, as evidenced by higher levels of erythroid progenitors. Plasma levels of gamma interferon (IFN-γ) and CXCL9 (Monokine Induced by IFN-γ; [MIG]) were found to be significantly reduced in IL-3 KO mice during early stages of infection whereas G-CSF levels were significantly greater than in WT counterparts. Overall, our results indicate that IL-3 plays a critical role in suppressing protective immunity to P. berghei NK65 infection and that it is involved in inhibiting the development of splenomegaly, anemia, and erythropoiesis. IL-3 also influences IFN-γ, CXCL9, and G-CSF production in response to infection. The abnormal responses seen in infected IL-3 KO mice may be due to the lack of IL-3 during development, to the lack of IL-3 in the infected mature mice, or to both.
Zn2-xSn1-xIn2xO4-δ : An indium-substituted spinel with transparent conducting properties

A substantial solid solubility of In2O3in the spinel Zn2SnO4(Zn2−xSn1−xInxO4−δ,x=0 to 0.45) was discovered. The reduced material showed improved conductivity at higher In contents.
Energy levels and intensity parameters of Ho3+ ions in GdLiF4, YLiF4 and LuLiF4

While the energy levels in Ho:YLF have been measured previously, they have not been as thoroughly investigated in the isomorphs, Ho:LuLF and Ho:GdLF. We report here the measurement of the energy levels of the trivalent lanthanide Ho3+ in GdLiF4 (GdLF), YLiF4 (YLF), and LuLiF4 (LuLF). The measurement of the energy levels of Ho:YLF, although they have been measured before, are repeated here for self-consistent comparison to Ho:LuLF and Ho:GdLF. The Stark split levels for the first ten Ho manifolds in these materials have been measured, and the results have been fitted to a free-ion plus crystal-field Hamiltonian to generate a theoretical set of energy levels. Crystal-field parameters were varied to determine the best fit between experimental and theoretical energy levels. The energy levels of Ho:GdLF and Ho:LuLF are seen to be very similar to those in Ho:YLF. However, subtle changes resulting from replacing Y3+ with Gd3+ or Lu3+ in the fluoride crystal YLiF4 result in shorter transition wavelengths in GdLF and longer transition wavelengths in LuLF. This has implications for Ho lasers operating at ~2.0 µm. The energy levels for Ho:GdLF and Ho:LuLF determined here indicate that Ho:GdLF will have a larger lower laser level thermal population than Ho:YLF, while Ho:LuLF lasers will have a smaller lower laser level thermal population than Ho:YLF. This is consistent with the larger Stark splitting associated with the larger host ions that Ho substitutes for in these lithium fluoride materials. The intensity parameters are also determined from a Judd–Ofelt analysis and used to calculate radiative lifetimes and branching ratios for the first ten manifolds in Ho:GdLF, Ho:YLF and Ho:LuLF.
Faith, Learning and Justice in Alan Dershowitz's the Genesis of Justice: Toward a Proper Understanding of the Relationship between the Bible and Modern Justice

The article reflects on Alan Dershowitz's book, The Genesis of Justice. Like the book, the article explores the relationship between the Bible, justice, and modern law. It discusses basic rules of interpretation that must be applied to the Bible if we are to draw proper conclusions related to the sources of justice. It then provides examples of both descriptive and normative integration of biblical principles, justice, and law.
Small molecules that enhance the catalytic efficiency of HLA-DM.

HLA-DM (DM) plays a critical role in Ag presentation to CD4 T cells by catalyzing the exchange of peptides bound to MHC class II molecules. Large lateral surfaces involved in the DM:HLA-DR (DR) interaction have been defined, but the mechanism of catalysis is not understood. In this study, we describe four small molecules that accelerate DM-catalyzed peptide exchange. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that these small molecules substantially enhance the catalytic efficiency of DM, indicating that they make the transition state of the DM:DR/peptide complex energetically more favorable. These compounds fall into two functional classes: two compounds are active only in the presence of DM, and binding data for one show a direct interaction with DM. The remaining two compounds have partial activity in the absence of DM, suggesting that they may act at the interface between DM and DR/peptide. A hydrophobic ridge in the DMβ1 domain was implicated in the catalysis of peptide exchange because the activity of three of these enhancers was substantially reduced by point mutations in this area.
Placement Discontinuity for Older Children and Adolescents Who Exit Foster Care Through Adoption Or Guardianship: A Systematic Review

For over two decades, practitioners, advocates, and scholars involved with the U.S. child welfare system have engaged in coordinated efforts to increase the number of foster youth who find stable, permanent homes through adoption or guardianship, and these efforts have been shaped and guided by federal policies and directives. As a result, the number of children adopted or placed into guardianship out of foster care has increased significantly. This trend has significant implications for child welfare research, policy, and practice. However, the risk and protective factors for post-permanency discontinuity, or placement changes that occur after legal finalization of an adoption or guardianship, have received little attention in the literature. Also, many previous studies that investigated post-permanency adjustment for former foster youth have been limited by serious design and/or conceptual flaws. The purpose of this study is to investigate the peer-reviewed literature that examines risk or protective factors for discontinuity, or outcomes proximal to discontinuity, for older foster youth. A systematic search located 18 quantitative, quasi-experimental studies published in peer-reviewed journals that implemented multivariable methods. This review finds that the quality of the research evidence is generally weak, but previous studies do suggest several risk and protective factors for post-permanency discontinuity, including child, family, and service characteristics.
Breast Reduction in the Irradiated Breast: Evidence for the Role of Breast Reduction at the Time of Lumpectomy

: Given the high incidence of breast cancer in our society, it is common to encounter patients with macromastia who desire breast reduction after breast-conserving therapy by lumpectomy and radiation. We hypothesize that radiation leads to a significant increase in postoperative complications after breast reduction. All patients with a history of unilateral breast lumpectomy and radiation who subsequently underwent bilateral breast reduction by a single surgeon from 2004 to 2008 were retrospectively reviewed. Outcomes including cellulitis, wound breakdown, seroma, and need for repeat operations were compared between the radiated and nonradiated breast. The Fisher’s exact test was used for statistical analysis. Twelve patients (mean age, 57 years) underwent bilateral breast reduction a mean of 86 months after unilateral lumpectomy and radiation. The nonradiated breasts had no complications postoperatively. The radiated breasts had a significant increase in complications with a total of five breasts (42%, p < 0.04) having postoperative complications including cellulitis in two breasts, seroma requiring drainage in five breasts, two cases of fat necrosis, and one case of wound dehiscence. This resulted in two admissions for intravenous antibiotics and two repeat operative procedures. Additionally, three patients had significant breast asymmetry or contour deformities after reduction requiring operative revisions. Breast reduction after radiation leads to a significant increase in complications. Given this data, patients with macromastia undergoing breast conservation therapy for cancer should be considered for reduction at the time of lumpectomy and prior to radiation.
Gene identification by shotgun antisense.

Shotgun antisense is a technique to make a random set of mutant cells or organisms in such a way that one can select an interesting mutant and then sequence part of the mutated gene within a day. In addition to the fantastic rapidity with which one can identify the mutated gene, there are more advantages of this technique over other mutagenesis techniques: (1) one can identify genes that when completely repressed are lethal; (2) one can select which sets of genes will be mutated; and (3) genes that are expressed from multiple copies can be repressed and thus identified.
Generalized 3-D tolerance analysis of mechanical assemblies with small kinematic adjustments

The direct linearization method (DLM) for tolerance analysis of 3-D mechanical assemblies is presented. Vector assembly models are used, based on 3-D vector loops which represent the dimensional chains that produce tolerance stackup in an assembly. Tolerance analysis procedures are formulated for both open and closed loop assembly models. The method generalizes assembly variation models to include small kinematic adjustments between mating parts. Open vector loops describe critical assembly features. Closed vector loops describe kinematic constraints for an assembly. They result in a set of algebraic equations which are implicit functions of the resultant assembly dimensions. A general linearization procedure is outlined, by which the variation of assembly parameters may be estimated explicitly by matrix algebra. Solutions to an over-determined system or a system having more equations than unknowns are included. A detailed example is presented to demonstrate the procedures of applying the DLM to a 3-D mechanical assembly.
Surplus Chinese Men: Demographic Determinants of the Sex Ratio at Marriageable Ages in China

The authors explore the demographic factors contributing to Chinas unbalanced sex ratio at marriagable ages. They developed a stable population model of the sex ratio at marriagable ages and compare a series of population projections with alternative underlying assumptions about the key demographic inputs. The stable population model demonstrates that several demographic factors interact to influence the sex ratio at marriagable ages including the sex ratio at birth population growth the age gap of marriage partners and the sex ratio of survival from birth to marriageable age. The population projections further demonstrate that policies that seek to reduce the sex ratio at birth and the age gap at marriage and to a lesser extent increase fertility would be most effective at alleviating the problem. But no demographic changes are likely to occur quickly enough to balance the sex ratio at marriagable ages in the near future.
Leading Economic Indicators, the Polls, and the Presidential Vote

On the eve of the election, the impending result of the presidential vote can be seen fairly clearly from trial-heat polls. Earlier in the election year, the polls offer much less information about what will happen on Election Day (see Campbell 2008; Wlezien and Erikson 2002). The polls capture preferences to the moment and do not—because they cannot—anticipate how preferences will evolve in the future, as the campaign unfolds. Various things ultimately impact the final vote. The standing of the sitting president is important. The economy is too. Both can change as the election cycle evolves. To make matters worse, late-arriving economic shocks have a bigger impact on the electoral verdict than those that arrive earlier. This complicates accurately forecasting the vote well in advance.
CONTEXT AND CULTURE IN LANGUAGE TEACHING AND LEARNING

CONTEXT AND CULTURE IN LANGUAGE TEACHING AND LEARNING. Michael Byram and Peter Grundy (Eds.). Clevedon, UK. Multilingual Matters, 2003. Pp. vi + 106. $39.95 cloth.This small volume makes connections relating the theory and practice of language teaching to sociopolitical and geopolitical perspectives as well as to a differentiated view of learners and teachers as individuals. The efforts are for the most part very successful, and this volume will be of interest to anyone working in research, pedagogical applications, and theory-building context and culture in language teaching and learning. Eight of the nine articles in the volume had their origin as papers presented at a conference at the University of Durham in June, 2001. The articles address two categories of inquiry: reports of empirical studies of learners, and procedural or methodological contributions with a focus on teachers and teaching.
Erythropoietin enhances neurogenesis and restores spatial memory in rats after traumatic brain injury

Erythropoietin (EPO) is neuroprotective in models of stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI) when administered prior to or within the first few hours after injury. We seek to demonstrate that EPO also has neurorestorative effects when administered late (i.e., 1 day) after TBI in the rat. Twelve rats were subjected to TBI. Six rats were treated with EPO daily for 14 days starting 1 day after injury, and an additional six rats were treated with saline. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) was administered daily for 14 days. Memory tests using a Morris Water Maze were performed prior to and after injury and treatment. Animals were sacrificed at 15 days after TBI, and their brains were prepared for histological analysis of damage to the dentate gyrus (DG) and for evaluation of newly formed neurons using double labeling of BrdU and MAP-2. The data revealed a significant improvement in spatial memory and significant increase in the number of newly formed neurons with EPO treatment compared with control animals. These data suggest that EPO treatment initiated 1 day after TBI is neurorestorative by enhancing neurogenesis, as well as neuroprotective.
Disruption of the Gene Encoding the Mitogen-regulated Translational Modulator PHAS-I in Mice

PHAS-I is the prototype of a group of eIF4E-binding proteins that can regulate mRNA translation in response to hormones and growth factors. To investigate the importance of PHAS-I in the physiology of the intact animal, we disrupted the PHAS-I gene in mice. Tissues and cells derived from the knockout mice contained no detectable PHAS-I protein. A related protein, PHAS-II, and eIF4E were readily detectable in tissues from these animals, but neither appeared to be changed in a compensatory manner. Mice lacking PHAS-I appeared normal at birth. However, male knockout mice weighed approximately 10% less than controls at all ages, whereas female weights were similar to those of controls. Both males and females were fertile. Tissues from adult animals appeared to be normal by routine histological staining techniques, as were routine blood cell counts and chemistries. Fibroblasts derived from PHAS-I-deficient mouse embryos exhibited normal rates of growth and overall protein synthesis, responded normally to serum stimulation of ornithine decarboxylase activity and cell growth, and rapamycin inhibition of cell growth. Under these experimental conditions, PHAS-I is apparently not required for the normal development and reproductive behavior of female mice, but is required for normal body weight in male mice; the mechanisms responsible for this phenotype remain to be determined.
Performance evaluation of CPPM modulation in multi-path environments

Abstract Chaotic pulse position modulation (CPPM) is a novel technique to communicate with chaotic signals based upon pulse trains in which the intervals between two pulses are determined by chaotic dynamics of a pulse generator. Using numerical simulations we show that CPPM offers excellent multi-path performance. We simulated the CPPM radio system, which is designed for a WLAN application and operates in the 2.4 GHz ISM frequency band with IEEE 802.11 compliant channel spacing. In this case, the average performance loss due the multi-path for CPPM is less than 5 dB.
Theoretical study of the 12A″ (X2II) State of N2 O+: implications for isotopic scrambling

Abstract Ab initio calculations suggest that the potential energy surface for the 12 A ″ state of N2O+ has a secondary minimum corresponding to a strongly bent structure. This structure is computed to lie below the A 2Σ + state energetically and therefore may be responsible for the isotopic scrambling observed in this energy region.
Electrolyte Depletion During Decongestive Treatment Adversely Impacts Outcomes of Acute Decompensated Heart Failure in a Contemporary Heart Failure Population

Background: During decongestive therapy for acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF), renal losses of sodium (Na) and chloride (Cl) leading to relative decrements in serum Na and Cl are common and have multifactorial causes. Yet the relative impact of progressive hyponatremia and hypochloremia during decongestive therapy on cardio-renal responses are not well understood. Hypothesis: We hypothesize that electrolyte depletion during loop diuretic therapy may be associated with the development of worsening renal function (WRF: O0.3 mg/dL increase in serum creatinine) during treatment for ADHF, and may be associated with higher long-term mortality. Methods: We reviewed clinical and laboratory data from 1,328 consecutive patients admitted with ADHF and treated with loop diuretic therapy at our institution between 7/200812/2013, with follow-up for all cause mortality. Electrolyte deplete (ED) in either Na or Cl was defined as a change in each electrolyte level (DNa !-2 mEq/L and DCl !-3 mEq/L) from baseline to discharge when the discharge level falls below a threshold (Na 136 mEq/L or Cl 99 mEq/L). Results: In our study cohort (age 67 6 14 years, 69.9% male, 34.7% ischemic cardiomyopathy, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) 27 [19,45] %, median NT-proBNP 4,699 [2,191, 9,447] pg/mL, and baseline serum creatinine 1.27 [0.79, 1.67] mg/dL) the median admission Na was 137 [135, 140] mEq/L and Cl was 101 [97, 104] mEq/L. The median discharge Na was 136 [133, 138] mEq/L and Cl was 99 [95, 102] mEq/L. ED occurred in 499 patients (37.6%), either Na drop only (n5190), Cl drop only (n5144) or both (n5165) during decongestive therapy. There were no differences in admission NTproBNP levels or serum creatinine among patients who were not ED, ED in Na only, ED in Cl only, or ED in both. However, there was different incident WRF and average weight change among these groups with different cumulative survival (Figure). Patients with ED in Cl drop only or both Na and Cl had higher incident WRF and worse overall survival upon long-term follow-up than patients who were not ED or ED in Na only. Conclusion: Electrolyte depletion during decongestive treatment for ADHF is common, and is associated with worsening renal function and a worse prognosis especially with hypochloremia. However, these results support the hypothesis that lowered serum chloride may be more closely associated with cardio-renal and adverse prognostic consequences than lowered serum sodium.
Iron Chelation Therapy for Malaria

Malaria is one of the most devastating and geographically widespread infections in man. Of the four protozoan species that cause malaria in humans, Plasmodium falciparum is responsible for the most severe clinical consequences including coma, profound anemia, renal failure and death. It is estimated that in 1986 there were 234 million clinical cases of falciparum malaria worldwide and that 2.2 million individuals died (Sturchler, 1989). Earlier in the century, the widespread application of effective insecticides and antimalarial drugs led to a decline in the incidence of malaria and the disease was eradicated from some countries. Over the past two decades, global resistance to both insecticides and antimalarials has emerged, the incidence of malaria has increased rapidly, and the geographic occurrence has become more widespread (Clyde, 1987). Efforts to develop a malaria vaccine are underway but face formidable obstacles, such as the observations that immunity resulting from natural infection is partial and of limited duration (Hoffman et al, 1987) and that the antigens of P. falciparum are highly polymorphic (Anders and Smythe, 1989). Although early tests of malaria vaccines in human volunteers have been conducted (Cox, 1993), clinically applicable vaccines will not be available for a number of years and their importance in controlling malaria is uncertain. In this setting, antimalarial chemotherapy remains the principal means available for reducing the morbidity and mortality of malaria, and the task of developing new antimalarial drugs with new mechanisms of action is of critical importance (WHO Scientific Group, {1984).
Relative activity of baculoviruses of the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae)

The relative activities of the granulovirus (PxGV) and the nucleopolyhedrovirus (PxMNPV) of the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.), against this insect were evaluated in the laboratory. Similar numbers of occlusion bodies (OBs) of PxGV and PxMNPV were required to kill P. xylostella. However, cadavers of insects infected with PxGV contained more OBs per unit weight than did cadavers infected with PxMNPV. Less cadaver material was thus required to kill insects with PxGV. Larvae that were killed by PxGV survived approximately 2 d longer than did those killed by PxMNPV. When P. xylostella larvae were fed both viruses together, mortality was higher than that caused by either virus alone. The virulence of PxMNPV produced in P.␣xylostella did not differ from that of PxMNPV produced in the beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Hubner). S. exigua was less susceptible to PxMNPV than to its homologous nucleopolyhedrovirus, SeMNPV.
Scaling rules for isocratic elution chromatography

Scaling rules for both linear and nonlinear elution chromatography with independent solutes are discussed. The scaling method utilizes smaller diameter particles with high mass transfer rates. The column length, diameter, and cycle time are then scaled so that pressure drop, separation, and throughput are the same or better than in the old design. The new design uses much less packing and cycles more rapidly than the old design. Mathematical derivation shows that the scaling rules for systems with linear and nonlinear isotherms are the same in certain circumstances. Gaussian solutions are used for studying linear systems. Mass transfer zone and diffusive wave analyses are used for constant and proportional patterns, respectively, to describe elution when plateaus form at the feed concentration. Numerical examination of the constant-pattern elution curve using the Thomas solution shows that the scaling rules are applicable to short columns, which means that there is a negligible entrance effect on the scaling rules. The Thomas solution also shows that the mass transfer resistance has little effect on the scaling rules for the proportional-pattern wave of a nonlinear solute. Shock and diffusive wave analyses based on the local equilibrium model are employed to describe the separation when the elution curves do not have plateaus. The calculated results show that the scaling rules are followed exactly when pore diffusion controls. Separation of two noninteracting nonlinear components and of a linear and a nonlinear component remains constant when these scaling rules are followed. Several example calculations are used to demonstrate the method.
The Moderating Role of Perceived Behavior–Outcome Covariation on Consumer Estimates of Health Risk:

Abstract The authors examine consumer perceptions of health risk in the context of two health-related domains in which they investigate the influence of reference standard and perceived level of covariation between risky behavior and a negative health outcome across a population. The results of two studies show that the perceived level of behavior–outcome covariation moderates the effect of the reference standard that consumers use to assess health risk. Specifically, the research shows that when the perceived level of behavior–outcome covariation is high/low, consumers’ estimates of health risks are higher when their current level of risky behavior is compared with the range/mean of their previous risky behavior.
Transnational Linguistic Landscapes and the Transgression of Metadiscursive Regimes of Language

In response to the limitations of the nation-state as a conceptual frame for the study of linguistic landscapes (LL), this article argues for a transnational approach that accounts for the material reconfigurations and symbolic reimaginations of space in the context of global flows and migrations (Appadurai, 1996). This approach enables one to recognize the fluidity of language practice that transgresses the metadiscursive regimes of language (Bauman & Briggs, 2003) upon which the ideological maintenance of native speaker idealization (Kachru, 2005) hinges. Drawing primarily on theories of language practice (Pennycook, 2010), language disinvention (Makoni & Pennycook, 2005, 2007), and language transgression (Pennycook, 2007), this article analyzes a variety of linguistic tactics in the transnational Korean LL, including those of the South Korean nation-state, and of ethnic Korean enclaves in the United States, including the Koreatowns of Los Angeles and New York. Language practice in the transnational Kor...
Putting theory into practice: social sciences needs analysis

Needs analysis is a systematic process whereby information concerning a service agency and its environment is gathered by a variety of data collection methods. The information collected is then utilized for assessment and planning purposes. This paper discusses the application of needs analysis to a social science discipline utilizing three data collection methods: syllabi study, journal scatter study, and content analysis. The results of the needs analysis are triangulated and discussed, and the feasibility of needs analysis in an academic library setting is assessed.
The elastic response of a cohesive aggregate: a discrete element model with coupled particle interaction

Abstract A model is presented for the deformation of a cohesive aggregate of elastic particles that incorporates two important effects of large-sized inter-particle junctions. A finite element model is used to derive a particle response rule, for both normal and tangential relative deformations between pairs of particles. This model agrees with the Hertzian contact theory for small junctions, and is valid for junctions as large as half the nominal particle size. Further, the aggregate model uses elastic superposition to account for the coupled force–displacement response due to the simultaneous displacement of all of the neighbors of each particle in the aggregate. A particle stiffness matrix is developed, relating the forces at each junction to the three displacement degrees of freedom at all of the neighboring-particle junctions. The particle response satisfies force and moment equilibrium, so that the model is properly posed to allow for rigid rotation of the particle without introducing rotational degrees of freedom. A computer-simulated sintering algorithm is used to generate a random particle packing, and the stiffness matrix is derived for each particle. The effective elastic response is then estimated using a mean field or affine displacement calculation, and is also found exactly by a discrete element model, solving for the equilibrium response of the aggregate to uniform-strain boundary conditions. Both the estimate and the exact solution compare favorably with experimental data for the bulk modulus of sintered alumina, whereas Hertzian contact-based models underestimate the modulus significantly. Poisson's ratio is, however, accurately determined only by the full equilibrium discrete element solution, and shown to depend significantly on whether or not rigid particle rotation is permitted in the model. Moreover, this discrete element model is sufficiently robust, so it can be applied to problems involving non-homogeneous deformations in such cohesive aggregates.
Policing: The world stage

(1996). Policing: The world stage. Journal of Criminal Justice Education: Vol. 7, Criminal Justice Education for the Global Village, pp. 241-251.
Silent Witnesses: Representations of Working-Class Women in the United States

Through detailed analyses of documentary photography and radical literature, Silent Witnesses explores how working-class identity has been repressed and manipulated to fit the expectations of liberal politicians, radical authors, Marxist historians, feminist academics, and contemporary cultural theorists.
Analysis of buck/boost zero-current-switching resonant DC/DC convertor

A large signal steady-state analysis is presented for a buck/boost zero-current-switching resonant DC/DC power convertor. The basic equations governing convertor operation are derived. The following performance parameters are determined for lossless operation: current and voltage waveforms, peak currents and voltages of the switch and rectifier diode, ON switch duty cycles, maximum switching frequency, DC voltage transfer function, DC input resistance, power conversion capability, and circuit component values. These results lead to the design procedure. An example is given to illustrate the application of the developed theory.< >
Granularity refined by knowledge: contingency tables and rough sets as tools of discovery

Contingency tables represent data in a granular way and are a well-established tool for inductive generalization of knowledge from data. We show that the basic concepts of rough sets, such as concept approximation, indiscernibility, and reduct can be expressed in the language of contingency tables. We further demonstrate the relevance to rough sets theory of additional probabilistic information available in contingency tables and in particular of statistical tests of significance and predictive strength applied to contingency tables. Tests of both type can help the evaluation mechanisms used in inductive generalization based on rough sets. Granularity of attributes can be improved in feedback with knowledge discovered in data. We demonstrate how 49er's facilities for (1) contingency table refinement, for (2) column and row grouping based on correspondence analysis, and (3) the search for equivalence relations between attributes improve both granularization of attributes and the quality of knowledge. Finally we demonstrate the limitations of knowledge viewed as concept approximation, which is the focus of rough sets. Transcending that focus and reorienting towards the predictive knowledge and towards the related distinction between possible and impossible (or statistically improbable) situations will be very useful in expanding the rough sets approach to more expressive forms of knowledge.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A distinct class of small RNAs arises from pre-miRNA-proximal regions in a simple chordate.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in various cellular processes. They are thought to function primarily as inhibitors of gene activity by attenuating translation or promoting mRNA degradation. A typical miRNA gene produces a predominant ∼21-nucleotide (nt) RNA (the miRNA) along with a less abundant miRNA* product. We sought to identify miRNAs from the simple chordate Ciona intestinalis through comprehensive sequencing of small RNA libraries created from different developmental stages. Unexpectedly, half of the identified miRNA loci encode up to four distinct, stable small RNAs. The additional RNAs, miRNA-offset RNAs (moRs), are generated from sequences immediately adjacent to the predicted ∼60-nt pre-miRNA. moRs seem to be produced by RNAse III-like processing, are ∼20 nt long and, like miRNAs, are observed at specific developmental stages. We present evidence suggesting that the biogenesis of moRs results from an intrinsic property of the miRNA processing machinery in C. intestinalis.
Bifurcations in fluctuating systems: The center-manifold approach

Bifurcations in fluctuating dynamical systems are studied using the ideas of center-manifold reduction. The method provides not only a systematic procedure for the reduction of the system to a small number of variables-but also a classification scheme for the different kinds of dynamical behavior possible near bifurcation points. The joint probability density factorizes into a stationary Gaussian densityp(v/u) in the fast variablesv, and a time-dependent densityP(u, f) in the slow variablesu describing the dynamics on the center manifoldv=v0 (u). P(u, t) obeys a reduced Fokker-Planck equation that can be written in a normal form by means of local nonlinear transformations. Both additive and multiplicative white noise are considered, as is colored noise. The results extend and formalize Haken's concept of adiabatic elimination of fast variables.
DEXAMETHASONE TRANSCRIPTIONALLY INCREASES THE EXPRESSION OF THE PREGNANE X RECEPTOR AND SYNERGISTICALLY ENHANCES PYRETHROID ESFENVALERATE IN THE INDUCTION OF CYTOCHROME P450 3A23

The pregnane X receptor (PXR) is recognized as a key regulator for the induction of a large number of genes in drug metabolism and transport. The transactivation of PXR is enhanced by the glucocorticoid dexamethasone and the enhancement is linked to the induction of PXR in humans and rats. The present study was undertaken to determine the mechanism for the induction and ascertain the synergistic effect on the expression of CYP3A23, a rat PXR target. In primary hepatocytes, significant induction of PXR was detected as early as 2 h after the treatment and the maximal induction occurred at 1 μM dexamethasone. Similar induction kinetics was observed in the hepatoma line H4-II-E-C3. The induction was abolished by actinomycin D and dexamethasone efficaciously stimulated the rat PXR promoter. In addition, dexamethasone synergized esfenvalerate (an insecticide and a PXR activator) in inducing CYP3A23 and stimulating the CYP3A23 promoter. The full promoter of CYP3A23 (−1445/+74) was activated in a similar pattern as the changes in PXR mRNA in response to dexamethasone, esfenvalerate and co-treatment. In contrast, different responding patterns were detected on the stimulation of the CYP3A23 proximal promoter. Synergistic stimulation was also observed on the CYP3A4-DP-Luc reporter, the human counterpart of CYP3A23. These findings establish that transactivation is responsible for the induction of rat PXR and the induction presents potential interactions with insecticides in a species-conserved manner. The different responding patterns among CYP3A23 reporters point to an involvement of multiple transcriptional events in the regulation of CYP3A23 expression by dexamethasone, esfenvalerate and both.
Esophageal Atresia in Infants With Very Low Birth Weight

Infants with esophageal atresia (EA), with or without a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) frequently are of low birth weight. With advances in neonatal, respiratory, surgical, and anesthetic care, more infants with very low birth weight (VLBW; birth weight less than 1.5 kg) are surviving. The therapy of the VLBW neonate with EA is not longer automatically staged. Primary or delayed primary anastomosis can be performed safely if the patient is stable. This report will review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, treatment, and prognosis of EA in VLBW infants. The authors present their own experience in dealing with the VLBW with EA and review the world literature.
In vivo autoregulation of rat adenohypophyseal thyrotropin-releasing hormone receptor.

Abstract The possible mechanism of attenuation of thyrotropin response to exogenous thyrotropin-releasing hormone in vivo after repeated administrations of the releasing hormone has been studied. To this end, the effect of prolonged hormone treatment on the binding of hormone to its receptor in the anterior pituitary gland has been evaluated. The data show that prolonged hormonal treatment resulted in a reduction in the number (B max ) but not the binding affinity (K D ) of the receptor. The effect was reversible and depended on the duration of treatment. This phenomenon of down regulation or the decrease in the receptor number was found not to be due to either the metabolism of releasing hormone or its ability to activate pituitary-thyroid-axis.
Ifosfamide-induced hyperpigmentation

BACKGROUND Pigmented banding of the nails and hyperpigmentation of hands and feet may occur during cyclophosphamide therapy. Ifosfamide, an analogue of cyclophosphamide, might be expected to cause similar pigmentary changes, but, to the knowledge of the authors, there are no reports of this. METHODS The authors describe skin pigment changes in a 5-year-old patient receiving ifosfamide, MESNA, and etoposide for the treatment of relapsed Wilms tumor. RESULTS A review of the literature concerning cyclophosphamide-induced pigmentary changes is presented, along with a discussion of the possible correlation of renal dysfunction with pigmentary changes. CONCLUSIONS This case should alert health care providers to this uncommon adverse effect of ifosfamide.
Counseling Families Formed by Transracial Adoption: Bridging the Gap in the Multicultural Counseling Competencies

This article provides a review of the literature regarding transracial adoption and counseling families formed through transracial adoption. Recommendations are reported according to essential awar...
Assessment of Student Experience in a Problem-Based Learning Course Using the Course Experience Questionnaire

Problem-based learning (PBL) has been described as ‘‘the learning that results from the process of working towards the understanding of a resolution of a problem.’’ This pedagogical approach, based in the theoretical framework of constructivism, is both a method and a philosophy that aims to build knowledge by working through (in an active, iterative, and self-directed way) a progressive framework of problems via facilitated smallgroup work and independent study. The PBL approach uses open-ended problems or case scenarios that are considered ill-structured in that they may havemultiple solutions or require more information for understanding the problem than is initially available. This compels students to build on prior knowledge, integration, and critical thinking and to practice acting as professionals in seeking solutions. Because the problems in these case scenarios often pose no single correct solution, an atmosphere of cooperative learning can be facilitated. Because nutrition professionals take on a wide variety of occupations, students require the development of a global skill set that may not be specific to nutrition. A PBL approachmay facilitate the development of self-directed learning, reflective thinking, leadership, teamwork, cooperation, selfconfidence, critical thinking, resource identification, and knowledge retention. These skills may help nutrition graduates enter the job market.
Photoexcitation of adenine cation radical [A*+] in the near UV-vis region produces sugar radicals in adenosine and in its nucleotides.

In this study, we report the formation of ribose sugar radicals in high yields (85−100%) via photoexcitation of adenine cation radical (A•+) in Ado and its ribonucleotides. Photoexcitation of A•+ at low temperatures in homogeneous aqueous glassy samples of Ado, 2′-AMP, 3′-AMP, and 5′-AMP forms sugar radicals predominantly at C5′- and also at C3′-sites. The C5′• and C3′• sugar radicals were identified employing Ado deuterated at specific carbon sites: C1′, C2′, and C5′. Phosphate substitution is found to deactivate sugar radical formation at the site of substitution. Thus, in 5′-AMP, C3′• is observed to be the main radical formed via photoexcitation at ca. 143 K, whereas, in 3′-AMP, C5′• is the only species found. These results were supported by results obtained employing 5′-AMP with specific deuteration at the C5′-site (i.e., 5′,5′-D,D-5′-AMP). Moreover, contrary to the C5′• observed in 3′-dAMP, we find that C5′• in 3′-AMP shows a clear pH-dependent conformational change as evidenced by a large increase i...
Central hypersensitivity in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome

Abstract Paul TM, Soo Hoo J, Chae J, Wilson RD. Central hypersensitivity in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome. Objective To investigate the presence of primary and secondary hyperalgesia among subjects with chronic subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) compared with pain-free controls. Design Cross-sectional design. Setting Outpatient rehabilitation clinic, urban, academic medical center. Participants Volunteer sample (N=62) (31 with SIS, 31 controls). Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Pressure-pain thresholds (PPTs) were measured at the middle deltoid of the affected/dominant arm (primary or secondary hyperalgesia) and the middle deltoid and tibialis anterior of the unaffected/nondominant side (secondary hyperalgesia) in SIS and healthy controls, respectively. Differences in PPTs were analyzed by Wilcoxon rank sum test and with linear regression analysis controlling for sex, a known confounder of PPTs. Results After adjusting for sex, subjects with SIS had significantly lower PPTs than did controls at all locations. Controls had a 1.4kg/cm 2 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2–1.5) higher PPT at their affected shoulder than did those with SIS, a 0.7kg/cm 2 (95% CI, 0.5–0.9) higher PPT at their nonaffected shoulder, and a 1.1kg/cm 2 (95% CI, 1.1–1.2) higher PPT at their contralateral tibialis anterior. Observers were not blinded to patient groupings but were blinded to the level of applied pressure. Conclusions This study provides further evidence that patients with SIS have significantly lower PPTs than do controls in both local and distal areas from their affected arm consistent with primary and secondary hyperalgesia, respectively. Data suggest the presence of central sensitization among subjects with chronic SIS.