cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Topographical control of human neutrophil motility on micropatterned materials with various surface chemistry.

Abstract Controlling cell responses to an implantable material is essential to tissue engineering. Because the surface is in direct contact with cells, both chemical and topographical properties of a material surface can play a crucial role. In this study, parallel ridges/grooves were micropatterned on glass surfaces using photosensitive polyimide to create transparent substrates. The migratory behavior of live human neutrophils on the patterned surfaces was observed using a light microscope with transmitted light source. The width (2 μm) and length (400 μm) of the ridges were kept constant. The height (5 or 3 μm) and the repeat spacing (6–14 μm) of the ridges were systematically changed to investigate the effect of microgeometry on neutrophil migration. In addition, the effect of surface chemistry on neutrophil migration was studied by deposition of a thin layer of “inert”, biocompatible metal such as Au–Pd alloy and titanium on patterned substrates. More than 95% of neutrophils moved in the direction of the long axis of ridges/grooves regardless of the topographical geometry and chemistry, consistent with a phenomenon termed “contact guidance”. Therefore, cell migration was characterized using a one-dimensional persistent random walk. The rate of cell movement was strongly dependent on the topographical microgeometry of the ridges. The random motility coefficient μ, 9.8×10−9 cm2/s, was the greatest at a ridge height of 5 μm and spacing of 10 μm, about 10 times faster than on smooth glass surface. The Au–Pd coating did not change neutrophil migratory behavior on patterned surfaces, whereas titanium decreased cell motility substantially. The results of this study suggest that optimization of both surface chemistry and topography may be important when designing biomaterials for tissue engineering. In addition, parallel ridges/grooves can be used to control the direction and rate of cell migration on the surface.
A profile of BLS and ACLS instructors

Study objective: To examine factors that motivate people to become and remain basic life support (BLS) and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) instructors. Design: A questionnaire was mailed to 967 BLS and ACLS instructors. Setting: The study was performed in the San Francisco Bay Area. Type of participants: All BLS and ACLS instructors whose names were registered with the Santa Clara County Affiliate of the American Heart Association. Results: Although there is room for improvement, 81% of the instructors were satisfied with their jobs. "Satisfaction in performing a valuable service" was the predominant reason they became instructors. "Lack of time" was the main factor causing people to stop teaching. Conclusion: The majority of BLS and ACLS instructors surveyed were quite happy. The current system appears to be working in that the teachers themselves are satisfied. An accurate portrait of BLS and ACLS instructors is crucial for organizations such as the American Heart Association if they wish to attract and retain instructors.
Gastrointestinal Toxicity andClostridium DifficileDiarrhea in Patients Treated with Paclitaxel-Containing Chemotherapy Regimens☆

Abstract Objective. The objective of this study was to determine the incidence of grade 3 and 4 gastrointestinal toxicity and the prevalence of Clostridium difficile -associated diarrhea (CDAD) in patients with gynecologic malignancies treated with paclitaxel-based chemotherapy regimens. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients treated on the Gynecology Service at Memorial Sloan–Kettering Cancer Center from January 1, 1993 to July 1, 1996. We identified all patients treated with paclitaxel during this period and determined the total number of patients hospitalized for symptoms of gastrointestinal toxicity, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, within 4 weeks of chemotherapy, as well as the incidence of CDAD among these patients. Results. Six hundred and twenty-four patients were treated with paclitaxel-containing chemotherapy regimens during the study period, including 55 patients who were treated on a "dose-dense" high-dose protocol for advanced ovarian cancer. Among these, 149 patients (24%) were hospitalized for symptoms of gastrointestinal toxicity. During the study period, a total of 40 cases of CDAD were reported among hospitalized patients on the Gynecology Service and 24 (60%) of these cases occurred in patients who had received paclitaxel within the prior 4 weeks. Conclusions. The occurrence of CDAD in patients receiving paclitaxel-containing chemotherapy is not rare and can result in severe dehydration requiring hospitalization. The risk of C. difficile colitis appears to be 2.2% in patients receiving standard-dose regimens and as high as 20% in patients receiving high-dose regimens. This etiology should be considered and treated early in patients presenting with symptoms of gastrointestinal toxicity subsequent to chemotherapy treatments.
Steady-state kinetic model for headspace solvent microextraction

A general kinetic model for headspace solvent microextraction (HS-SME) is described which incorporates steady-state behavior of the concentration of the analyte in the headspace phase during the extraction process. The model is consistent with previously reported extraction rate data, and provides a fundamental framework for understanding the rate-controlling characteristics of this method. The assumptions of the model are challenged with experimental studies of HS-SME using the relatively volatile BTEX series (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene) in which both the organic phase and headspace phase concentrations are measured directly and independently at different times during the extraction process. The experimental data provide insight into the utility and limitations of the model.
Approximations for the two‐dimensional Green’s function of a fluid‐loaded plate

Simple analytical formulas to predict the acoustic component of the two‐dimensional (2‐D) Green’s function of a fluid‐loaded plate are presented. The formulas do not require any side computations such as numerical zero finding or numerical integrations. The simplest result obtained provides a good estimate of the Green’s function for a very broad range of frequencies, being degraded only near the coincidence frequency. A somewhat more complicated formula, almost uniformly valid in frequency, and yielding reasonable accuracy even at coincidence, is also presented. Numerical results comparing the asymptotic approximations to the ‘‘exact’’ Green’s function are presented, and show significant improvement over a basic steepest descents based approximation. For large values of x, very high accuracy can be achieved with relative errors of less than 0.1%. For other less stringent applications the approximations are accurate to within 10% at fairly small distances from the source, requiring only kfx>1 and k0x>0.5.
Müller cell differentiation in the zebrafish neural retina: evidence of distinct early and late stages in cell maturation.

The vertebrate neural retina is mainly composed of cells of neuroectodermal origin. The primary cell types found in all vertebrate retinas are several categories of neurons and the archetypical retina glial cell the Muller cell. Although the neurons and the single glial cell type of the retina are specialized for very distinct functions, they all have a common developmental origin within the tissue. How the distinctions between cell types, in particular between neurons and glia, arise during embryonic development remains a central issue in neurobiology. In this report, we examine the genesis of Muller glial cells during zebrafish (Danio rerio) eye development. Particular emphasis is placed on the expression of the Muller cell maturation markers carbonic anhydrase and glutamine synthetase. In addition, we report that the HNK-1 monoclonal antibody, which identifies a particular glycoconjugate frequently found on cell surface recognition molecules, also identifies zebrafish retina Muller cells early in development. The expression patterns of these three markers clearly show that the Muller cells mature in stages: HNK-1 labeling and glutamine synthetase arise earlier than carbonic anhydrase expression. In addition, the embryonic zebrafish neural retina is characterized by the presence of amoeboid, carbonic anhydrase-positive microglial cells even before the genesis of retinal neuroectodermal glia. The stepwise maturation of the glia is likely to be indicative of an overall retinal maturational program in which cell differentiation and the expression of certain phenotype-defining gene products may be separately regulated.
Simultaneous oxytocin and arg-vasopressin measurements in microdialysates using capillary liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry

Oxytocin (OXT) and arg-vasopressin (AVP) are nonapeptides with many important functions both peripherally and centrally. Intracerebral microdialysis has helped characterize their importance in regulating complex social and emotional processes. Radioiummunoassay is the most commonly used analytical method used for OXT and AVP measurements in microdialysates. These measurements have several well-known issues including single peptide per assay limit, possible cross-reactivity between structurally related peptides, and laborious sample preparation with radioactive materials. Here we demonstrate the use of capillary LC-MS(3) for measuring OXT and AVP simultaneously in dialysates at a 10 min sampling frequency. Microdialysate samples required no preparation and instrumentation was commercially available. Microdialysis probes made with polyacrylonitrile membranes were suitable for high level recovery of the peptides in vitro and in vivo. Responses were linear from 1 to 100 pM. Matrix effect was assessed by standard addition experiments and by comparing signal intensities of OXT and AVP standards made in aCSF or dialysate. It was determined that the online washing step used on this setup was adequate for removing contaminants which interfere with electrospray ionization efficiency. In vivo, both peptides were stimulated by high K(+) (75 mM) aCSF perfusion in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN). Also, a systemic injection of high Na(+) (2M) caused a rapid and transient increase in PVN OXT while AVP increased only after 1.5h. Our findings suggest that capillary LC-MS(3) is a straightforward method for monitoring OXT and AVP simultaneously from complex samples such as dialysates.
Effects of Urban Growth Boundaries on Residential Development in Pierce County, Washington

Although the literature on growth management is extensive, few researchers have explored policy-oriented evaluation methodologies. This article develops a new methodology to measure urban sprawl in order to evaluate the geographical effects of urban growth boundaries in Pierce County, Washington. The methodology utilizes residential building permit data from 1991 to 2002 that were put into a geographic information system and geocoded to the Pierce County street centerline file. The results of our study indicate that since the establishment in 1995 of urban growth boundaries there has been a substantial increase in the clustering of residential permits inside those boundaries. The implications of these findings are important for planning practitioners and the evaluation of growth management policies throughout the United States and elsewhere.
Socioeconomic status and electrolyte intake in black adults: the Pitt County Study.

BACKGROUND. Although the inverse association between socioeconomic status (SES) and blood pressure has often been observed, little is known about the relationship between SES and dietary risk factors for elevated blood pressure. Therefore, this study described the distribution of dietary intakes of sodium, potassium, and calcium and examined the association between electrolyte intake and SES among 1784 Black men and women aged 25 to 50 residing in eastern North Carolina. METHODS. Household interviews were conducted in 1988 to obtain information on psychosocial and dietary correlates of blood pressure. Electrolyte intake (mg/day) was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire adapted to reflect regional and ethnic food preferences. SES was categorized into three levels defined by the participant's educational level and occupation. RESULTS. After adjustment for age and energy intake, potassium and calcium intake increased with increasing SES for both sexes. Sodium intake was high for all groups and did n...
Relativistic treatment of outer electron orbitals

Recent advances in the methods for computing relativistic Hartree-Fock wave functions have led to a revival of interest in investigating relativistic effects in atoms. While many papers have been related to topics in which these effects are obviously important such as K shell ionization energies for heavy elements, superheavy elements, etc., less attention has been spent on the indirect relativistic effects and on the comparison of the relative importance of correlation and relativistic effects. These latter two points are illustrated by a small number of examples drawn from various fields such as hyperfine interaction, optical spectra, and oscillator strengths. This review of recent applications of relativistic calculations shows the importance of relativistic effects to improve the agreement between ab initio caclulations and experimental results.
Parallel multiplicity and error discovery rate (EDR) in microarray experiments

In microarray gene expression profiling experiments, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) are detected from among tens of thousands of genes on an array using statistical tests. It is important to control the number of false positives or errors that are present in the resultant DEG list. To date, more than 20 different multiple test methods have been reported that compute overall Type I error rates in microarray experiments. However, these methods share the following dilemma: they have low power in cases where only a small number of DEGs exist among a large number of total genes on the array. This study contrasts parallel multiplicity of objectively related tests against the traditional simultaneousness of subjectively related tests and proposes a new assessment called the Error Discovery Rate (EDR) for evaluating multiple test comparisons in microarray experiments. Parallel multiple tests use only the negative genes that parallel the positive genes to control the error rate; while simultaneous multiple tests use the total unchanged gene number for error estimates. Here, we demonstrate that the EDR method exhibits improved performance over other methods in specificity and sensitivity in testing expression data sets with sequence digital expression confirmation, in examining simulation data, as well as for three experimental data sets that vary in the proportion of DEGs. The EDR method overcomes a common problem of previous multiple test procedures, namely that the Type I error rate detection power is low when the total gene number used is large but the DEG number is small. Microarrays are extensively used to address many research questions. However, there is potential to improve the sensitivity and specificity of microarray data analysis by developing improved multiple test comparisons. This study proposes a new view of multiplicity in microarray experiments and the EDR provides an alternative multiple test method for Type I error control in microarray experiments.
Optional shift behavior as a function of dimensional preference and relative cue similarity

Abstract Dimensional preference (either color or form) was assessed in first- and third-grade children prior to their being presented with a reversal-nonreversal optional shift task. During initial learning of the reversal-nonreversal task, one-half of the children were trained with their preferred dimension relevant, while the other half were trained with their preferred dimension irrelevant. For half of each of these groups, the relevant cues were similar; for the other half, the irrelevant cues were similar. Initial learning was faster when the preferred dimension was relevant and when the irrelevant cues were similar. More reversal shifts were made when the irrelevant cues were similar.
A Zoonotic Genotype of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Horses

This is the first report of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in an equid species. Feces from 195 horses from 4 locations in Colombia were examined for E. bieneusi by polymerase chain reaction. Of these, 21 horses (10.8%) were found positive for E. bieneusi. The prevalence of E. bieneusi in horses ,1 yr of age was significantly higher (23.7%) than in horses .1 yr of age (2.5%). No significant differences in prevalence were observed between male (13.7%) and female horses (9%). Sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer region of the SSUrRNA locus identified 3 genotypes. Two genotypes appear to be unique to horses and were named Horse 1 and Horse 2. A third genotype, identified as genotype D, was detected in 4 horses. This genotype, previously reported to infect humans, beaver, cattle, dogs, falcons, foxes, macaques, muskrats, pigs, and raccoons, is the most ubiquitous of the E. bieneusi zoonotic genotypes. Our findings indicate that E. bieneusi from horses can be a potential source of infection for humans. Microsporidia are obligate, intracellular parasites consisting of more than 1,200 species in 143 genera. They infect a wide range of invertebrate and vertebrate hosts. Of 14 species in 6 genera reported to infect humans, Enterocytozoon bieneusi is recognized as the most common microsporidian species (Didier and Weiss, 2006). Enterocytozoon bieneusi has been also detected in a broad range of animals, raising the concern that animals could be a potential source of infection for humans. Considerable genetic diversity within E. bieneusi has been observed, with more than 80 genotypes of the parasite differentiated based on polymorphisms of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence of the rRNA gene; some genotypes appear to be host specific, while others have a broad host range, supporting the likelihood of zoonotic transmission (Santin and Fayer, 2009). The only published reports of testing for microsporidia in equids were of horses and donkeys in Switzerland and Spain, which were found to be negative for the parasite (Breitenmoser et al., 1999; Lores et al., 2002). The present study was conducted to examine horses from a different geographic location, Colombia, South America, for the presence of E. bieneusi in their feces.
Early, but not late, antiepileptic treatment reduces relapse of sound-induced seizures in the post-ischemic rat

Global ischemia was used to induce a sensitivity to sound-triggered generalized seizures in 24 male Long-Evans rats. All showed a generalized seizure when exposed to a 108 dB bell for 1 min. They were assigned randomly to 3 groups of 8, and received 30 additional sound exposures. The early treatment group was injected with valproate (200 mg/kg i.p) 1 h prior to each of the first 10 sound exposures. The late treatment group received the same treatment during the second set of 10 sound exposures after 10 sound exposures without treatment. The third group was untreated. Both early and late treated groups had a significant reduction in seizure incidence during the treatment period, i.e. both groups showed seizure control. However, in the late group seizures returned promptly when valproate treatment was discontinued, while the early group showed a sustained reduction in seizure susceptibility. Since this outcome corresponds to seizure remission, the findings of this study favor early treatment.
The responses of Philophthalmus gralli and P. megalurus miracidia to light, gravity and magnetic fields

Abstract Miracida of an eyefluke of birds, Philophthalmus gralli, which are positively geotactic, exhibited a positive north-seeking magnetotaxis when subjected to magnetic field strengths from 3 × 10−4 to 2 × 10−2 T. A closely-related species, P. megalurus, which is positively geotactic only in complete darkness, exhibited no magnetotaxis under similar conditions. A positive phototactic response overrode the north-seeking magnetotaxis when P. gralli miracidia were subjected to both stimuli in a competing system. No detector mechanisms for magnetic fields are known in miracidia of digenetic trematodes. The order of responsiveness for P. gralli miracidia then is: geotaxis > phototaxis > magnetotaxis.
The Dragon vs. the Eagle & Serpent: The Economic Impact of China in Mexico

Although China has become, over the past three decades, an unprecedented case of economic growth accompanied by a voracious appetite for natural resources, China has been increasingly engaging with Latin America. However, as Sino-Latin American relationships have improved Latin American countries’ economies through their supply of primary products and through the region’s growing importance to China as a market, Mexico has not benefited from this increased engagement. This paper will show that as the balance of trade of selected Latin American countries has grown with China and benefited their economies, it has not been the case with Mexico in particular.
Protocol implementation of selective postoperative lumbar spinal drainage after thoracic aortic endograft

Background Spinal cord ischemia (SCI) remains a significant concern in patients undergoing endovascular repair involving the thoracic aorta (thoracic endovascular aortic repair [TEVAR]). Perioperative lumbar spinal drainage has been widely practiced for open repair, but there is no consensus treatment protocol using lumbar drainage for SCI associated with TEVAR. This study analyzes the efficacy of an institutional protocol using selective lumbar drainage reserved for patients experiencing SCI following TEVAR. Methods A prospectively maintained registry was reviewed to identify all patients who underwent TEVAR from January 2000 through June 2010. Preoperative characteristics, intraoperative details, and outcomes, including neurologic deficit and mortality at 30 days and 1 year were determined based on reporting standards. Patients developing symptoms of SCI in the postoperative setting were compared with those without neurologic symptoms. SCI patients who received selective lumbar drainage were grouped based on resolution of neurologic function, with risk factors and outcomes of these subgroups analyzed with χ 2 , t test, logistic regression, and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results Two hundred seventy-eight TEVARs were performed on 251 patients. Twelve patients accounting for 12 TEVARs were excluded from analysis: 5 patients experienced SCI preoperatively, 4 patients were drained preoperatively, 2 expired intraoperatively, and 1 procedure was aborted. Of the remaining 266 procedures in 239 patients, 16 (6.0%) developed SCI within the 30-day postoperative period. Risk factors for SCI reaching statistical significance included length of aortic coverage ( P = .036), existence of infrarenal aortic pathology ( P = .026), and history of stroke ( P = .043). Stent graft coverage of the left subclavian artery origin was required in 28.9% (n = 77) and was not associated with SCI ( P = .52). Ten of 16 post-TEVAR SCI patients received selective postoperative lumbar drains and were categorized based on resolution of symptoms into complete resolution (n = 3; 30%), partial resolution (n = 4; 40%), and no resolution (n = 3; 30%). No patient characteristics or risk factors reached significance in comparison of lumbar drained patients and nondrained patients. All seven drained patients without complete resolution of SCI died within the first year after surgery, while all three of the complete responders survived ( P = .017). In patients with SCI, increased all-cause mortality was observed at 1 year (56.3% vs 20.4%; P = .003). Conclusions A protocol utilizing selective postoperative lumbar spinal drainage can be used safely for patients developing SCI after TEVAR with acceptably low permanent neurologic deficit, although overall survival of patients experiencing SCI after TEVAR is diminished relative to non-SCI patients.
On the formulation of high-frequency dissipative time-stepping algorithms for nonlinear dynamics. Part I: low-order methods for two model problems and nonlinear elastodynamics

Abstract We present in this paper the development of a class of time-stepping algorithms for nonlinear elastodynamics that exhibits the controllable numerical dissipation in the high-frequency range required for the robust solution of the resulting numerically stiff systems. To motivate and illustrate better the developments in this general case, we present first the formulation and analysis of these methods for two simple model problems. Namely, we consider a nonlinear elastic spring/mass system and a simplified model of thin elastic beams. As it is discussed in detail in this paper, the conservation by the numerical algorithm of the momenta and corresponding relative equilibria of these characteristic Hamiltonian systems with symmetry is of the main importance. These conservation properties lead for a fixed and finite time step to a correct qualitative picture of the phase space where the discrete dynamics takes place, even in the presence of the desired and controlled numerical dissipation of the energy. This situation is contrasted with traditional “dissipative” numerical schemes, which are shown through rigorous analyses to not only lose their dissipative character in the general nonlinear range, but also the aforementioned conservation properties, thus leading to a qualitatively distorted approximation of the phase dynamics. The key for a successful algorithm in this context is the incorporation of the numerical dissipation in the internal modes of the motion while not affecting the group motions of the systems. The algorithms presented in this work accomplish these goals. The focus in this first part is given to first-order methods. Representative numerical simulations, ranging from applications in nonlinear structural dynamics to nonlinear continuum three-dimensional elastodynamics, are presented in the context of the finite element method to illustrate these ideas and results.
Facies development in the Lower Freeport coal bed, west-central Pennsylvania, U.S.A.

Abstract The Lower Freeport coal bed in west-central Pennsylvania is interpreted to have formed within a lacustrine-mire environment. Conditions of peat formation, caused by the changing chemical and physical environments, produced five coal facies and two mineral-rich parting facies within the coal bed. The coal bed facies are compositionally unique, having developed under varying conditions, and are manifested by megascopic, petrographic, palynologic and quality characteristics. The initial environment of the Lower Freeport peat resulted in a coal facies that is relatively high in ash yield and contains large amounts of lycopod miospores and moderate abundances of cryptotelinite, crypto-gelocollinite, inertinite and tree fern miospores. This initial Lower Freeport peat is interpreted to have been a topogenous body that was low lying, relatively nutrient rich (mesotrophic to eutrophic), and susceptible to ground water and to sediment influx from surface water. The next facies to form was a ubiquitous, clay-rich durain parting which is attributed to a general rise in the water table accompanied by widespread flooding. Following formation of the parting, peat accumulation resumed within an environment that inhibited clastic input. Development of doming in this facies restricted deposition of the upper shale parting to the margins of the mire and allowed low-ash peat to form in the interior of the mire. Because this environment was conducive to preservation of cellular tissue, this coal facies also contains large amounts of crypto-telinite. This facies development is interpreted to have been a transitional phase from topogenous, planar peat formation to slightly domed, oligotrophic (nutrient-poor) peat formation. As domed peat formation continued, fluctuations in the water table enabled oxidation of the peat surface and produced high inertinite concentrations toward the top of the coal bed. Tree ferns became an increasingly important peat contributor in the e upper facies, based on the palynoflora. This floral change is interpreted to have resulted from the peat surface becoming less wet or better drained, a condition that inhibited proliferation of lycopod trees. Accumulation of the peat continued until rising water levels formed a freshwater lake within which clays and silts were deposited. The development of the Lower Freeport peat from a planar mire through transitional phases toward domed peat formation may be an example of the type of peat formation of other upper Middle and Upper Pennsylvanian coal beds.
Kinetics of regulatory serine variants of tyrosine hydroxylase with cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 2

Rat tyrosine hydroxylase is phosphorylated at four serine residues, at positions 8, 19, 31, and 40 in its amino terminal regulatory domain by multiple protein kinases. Cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase phosphorylates S40, which results in alleviation of inhibition by dopamine. Extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 2 phosphorylates S8 and S31. Site-directed serine-to-glutamate mutations were introduced into tyrosine hydroxylase to mimic prior phosphorylation of the regulatory serines; these proteins were used as substrates for cAMP-dependent kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2. The activity of cAMP-dependent kinase was unaffected by the substitution of serines 8, 19 or 31 with glutamate and the activity of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 was unaffected by substitution of serines 19 or 40 with glutamate. Cyclic AMP-dependent kinase was less active in phosphorylating S40 if dopamine was bound to tyrosine hydroxylase, but extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 phosphorylation at S31 was unaffected by the presence of dopamine.
Dynamics of a hybrid zone in Phlox: an experimental demographic investigation.

The dynamics of a narrow hybrid zone between Phlox drummondii ssp. drummondii and ssp. mcallisteri was investigated using an experimental demographic approach. Three populations of each subspecies as well as those from the hybrid zone were involved. Experimental plots containing seeds from each of the nine populations were established in each of the eight sites. Germination, survivorship to reproduction, and fecundity were monitored at 4-6 wk intervals. Finite rates of increase were estimated from these data. There were significant site effects for each demographic variable and rate of increase as well as significant population effects for germination and finite rate of increase. Although there were population effects, no significant differences were found between plant types in sites of the subspecies or the hybrid zone. We reject the hypothesis that the narrow width ofthe hybrid zone is the result of hybrid disadvantage. We propose that the narrow width is a result of restricted gene flow and discuss the supporting
Hürthle cell carcinoma: a 60-year experience.

The aim of this study was to define the clinical behavior and prognostic indicators of outcome in Hurthle cell cancer (HCC). Diagnosis was confirmed for 56 patients with HCC treated between 1940 and 2000, who form the basis of this study. Primary end points were relapse-free survival (RFS) and disease-specific survival (DSS). Data were analyzed with the Kaplan-Meier method and by log-rank test. The extent of thyroid resection did not predict outcome. Recurrence was a significant predictor of tumor-related mortality. Significant adverse predictors of RFS and DSS were degree of invasion, size >4 cm, extrathyroidal extension, and initial nodal or distant metastases. The most significant predictor of outcome was extent of invasion. Eight-year RFS values for low- and high-risk groups were 100% and 24%. Corresponding rates of 8-year DSS were 100% and 58%. Widely invasive HCC is an aggressive malignancy that identifies patients who are at high risk for recurrence and tumor-related death. Patients with HCC have a prognosis that is reliably predicted by degree of invasion, tumor size, extrathyroidal disease extension, and initial nodal or distant metastasis. Recurrence portends a poor outcome. High-risk patients and those with recurrence should be considered for adjuvant therapy.
Dichromated Gelatin As A Holographic Storage Medium

Dichromated gelatin is considered to be one of the best holographic storage media available today for many applications because of its low scattering and absorption, large refractive index modulation capacity, moderate exposure, high resolution, and other unique capabilities such as reprocessibility. Holographic characteristics of dichromated gelatin are described on the basis of experimental data and several promising application areas of dichromated gelatin holograms are discussed.© (1979) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Adaptive Inverse Optimal Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is a prescribed treatment for various neuromuscular disorders, where an electrical stimulus is provided to elicit a muscle contraction. Barriers to the development of NMES controllers exist because the muscle response to an electrical stimulation is nonlinear and the muscle model is uncertain. Efforts in this paper focus on the development of an adaptive inverse optimal NMES controller. The controller yields desired limb trajectory tracking while simultaneously minimizing a cost functional that is positive in the error states and stimulation input. The development of this framework allows tradeoffs to be made between tracking performance and control effort by putting different penalties on error states and control input, depending on the clinical goal or functional task. The controller is examined through a Lyapunov-based analysis. Experiments on able-bodied individuals are provided to demonstrate the performance of the developed controller.
English Language Proficiency and Physical Activity among Mexican-Origin Women in South Texas and South Carolina

Objectives . To examine the relationship between English language proficiency (ELP), physical activity, and physical activity-related psychosocial measures (i.e., exercise self-efficacy, exercise social support, perceptions of environmental supports) among Mexican-origin women in South Carolina and Texas. Design . Adjusted robust regression and interaction modeling to evaluate baseline questionnaire data on self-reported ELP with CHAMPS leisure-time moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), accelerometry data, Physical Activity Self-Efficacy, Physical Activity Social Support, and Environmental Support for Physical Activity in 118 Mexican-origin women. Results . The adjusted regression revealed a significant association between ELP and perceived physical activity self-efficacy (β = 234.2, p = .004), but not with physical activity social support. In South Carolina, CHAMPS leisure-time MVPA (411.4 versus 114.3 minutes, p Conclusion . Our findings indicate that ELP was associated with physical activity and that contextual factors may also play a role.
Test description and preliminary pitot-pressure surveys for Langley Test Technique Demonstrator at Mach 6

A propulsion/airframe integration experiment conducted in the NASA Langley 20-Inch Mach 6 Tunnel using a 16.8-in.-long version of the Langley Test Technique Demonstrator configuration with simulated scramjet propulsion is described. Schlieren and vapor screen visualization of the nozzle flow field is presented and correlated with pitot-pressure flow-field surveys. The data were obtained at nominal free-stream conditions of Re = 2.8 x 10 exp 6 and a nominal engine total pressure of 100 psia. It is concluded that pitot-pressure surveys coupled to schlieren and vapor-screen photographs, and oil flows have revealed flow features including vortices, free shear layers, and shock waves occurring in the model flow field.
Regulation Mechanisms and Signaling Pathways of Autophagy

Autophagy is a process of self-degradation of cellular components in which double-membrane autophagosomes sequester organelles or portions of cytosol and fuse with lysosomes or vacuoles for breakdown by resident hydrolases. Autophagy is upregulated in response to extra- or intracellular stress and signals such as starvation, growth factor deprivation, ER stress, and pathogen infection. Defective autophagy plays a significant role in human pathologies, including cancer, neurodegeneration, and infectious diseases. We present our current knowledge on the key genes composing the autophagy machinery in eukaryotes from yeast to mammalian cells and the signaling pathways that sense the status of different types of stress and induce autophagy for cell survival and homeostasis. We also review the recent advances on the molecular mechanisms that regulate the autophagy machinery at various levels, from transcriptional activation to post-translational protein modification.
Extended matrix method for the analysis of nonlinear directional couplers with saturable coupling media

An improved matrix method for the analysis and design of nonlinear directional couplers (NLDC) with Kerr-like coupling media is presented. The method represents an extension of the original matrix method that has been used to study linear waveguides with inhomogeneous refractive index profiles and three-layer nonlinear waveguides. The method is based on an iterative averaging algorithm that calculates the average values of the dielectric constant and the field amplitude in each stratified nonlinear layer. This numerical method is applied to compute the power-dependent characteristics of symmetrical and nonsymmetrical multiple quantum-well (MQW) NLDCs. Saturation of the refractive index in the MQW coupling medium is taken into account and, for a symmetrical structure, the numerical results are shown to be in agreement with published experimental data.
Neurophysiological and Behavioral Responses of Gypsy Moth Larvae to Insect Repellents: DEET, IR3535, and Picaridin

The interactions between insect repellents and the olfactory system have been widely studied, however relatively little is known about the effects of repellents on the gustatory system of insects. In this study, we show that the gustatory receptor neuron (GRN) located in the medial styloconic sensilla on the maxillary palps of gypsy moth larvae, and known to be sensitive to feeding deterrents, also responds to the insect repellents DEET, IR3535, and picaridin. These repellents did not elicit responses in the lateral styloconic sensilla. Moreover, behavioral studies demonstrated that each repellent deterred feeding. This is the first study to show perception of insect repellents by the gustatory system of a lepidopteran larva and suggests that detection of a range of bitter or aversive compounds may be a broadly conserved feature among insects.
Dissociative adsorption and associative desorption of H2 on a flat surface

A quantum mechanical time-dependent method was used to study the dynamics of dissociative adsorption and associative desorption of H2 on a flat, static surface. We used a two-dimensional model in which the molecular axis was held parallel to the surface and the diatom internuclear separation and distance above the surface were the dynamic variables. A modified London–Eyring–Polanyi–Sato (LEPS) potential described the molecule–surface interactions. The wave function for the molecule was represented by its values on a spatial grid of points. The wave function was propagated by expanding the time evolution operator in a series of Chebyshev polynomials and using the properties of the Fourier transform to calculate the kinetic energy. The computational requirements of the problem were significantly reduced by using an L-shaped grid which deletes a large number of points where it is known a priori that the wave-function amplitude vanishes. State-to-state transition probabilities were calculated as a function of the initial translational and vibrational energy for potentials with early, late, and intermediate barriers. The location of the barrier has a strong effect on the energy threshold for reaction and on the distribution of energy between vibration and translation in the products.
Multilevel Diskless Checkpointing

Extreme scale systems available before the end of this decade are expected to have 100 million to 1 billion CPU cores. The probability that a failure occurs during an application execution is expected to be much higher than today's systems. Counteracting this higher failure rate may require a combination of disk-based checkpointing, diskless checkpointing, and algorithmic fault tolerance. Diskless checkpointing is an efficient technique to tolerate a small number of process failures in large parallel and distributed systems. In the literature, a simultaneous failure of no more than N processes is often tolerated by using a one-level Reed-Solomon checkpointing scheme for N simultaneous process failures, whose overhead often increases quickly as N increases. We introduce an N-level diskless checkpointing scheme that reduces the overhead for tolerating a simultaneous failure of up to N processes. Each level is a diskless checkpointing scheme for a simultaneous failure of i processes, where i = 1, 2,..., N. Simulation results indicate the proposed N-level diskless checkpointing scheme achieves lower fault tolerance overhead than the one-level Reed-Solomon checkpointing scheme for N simultaneous processor failures.
Fast Option Pricing using Non Uniform Discrete Fourier Transform on Gaussian Discretization Grids

The aim of this work is to offer for the first time an application in finance of a new tool that appears to have a great potential in terms of derivative pricing. Non Uniform Discrete Fourier Transforms are innovative, precious tools in the fields of Signals Theory and Images Reconstruction where they are often useful when the sampling frequencies of the signals are non uniformly sampled in space and time. In the context of derivative pricing via Fourier Transform methods, the need of a non uniform discretization grid for the risk neutral characteristic function of the transformed spot price arises naturally trying to improve the accuracy of option pricing formulas at their best. Gaussian quadrature schemes are a powerful and elegant solution to the problem of maximizing both accuracy and stability of the pricing formulas, but unfortunately they don’t allow a direct and immediate fast implementation as it happens for the more rudimental Newton - Cotes schemes (Carr - Madan, 1999). Non Uniform DFT’s can be used to restate the discretized pricing formulas as convergence limits of properly rescaled Fourier transforms. An interesting interpolation tecnique (Gaussian gridding), properly improved to exalt speed of computation, is then applied to allow fast computation of Non Uniform DFT’s. The computational framework is impressive: perfect accuracy and precise error control are the key features of this very fast implementation, that is valid under the hyphotesis of general processes for the underlying (Sepp, 2003) and easily extendable to any type of option pricing formulas.
Proopiomelanocortin Peptides Are Not Essential for Development of Ethanol-Induced Behavioral Sensitization

Background Behavioral sensitization is a result of neuroadaptation to repeated drug administration and is hypothesized to reflect an increased susceptibility to drug abuse. Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) derived peptides including β-endorphin and α-melanocyte stimulating hormone have been implicated in development of behavioral sensitization and the reinforcing effects of alcohol and other drugs of abuse. This study used a genetically engineered mouse strain that is deficient for neural POMC to directly determine if any POMC peptides are necessary for the development of ethanol-induced locomotor sensitization.
The Applicability of Past Innovative Concepts to the Technology for New Extremely Large Space Antenna/Telescope Structures

This session will address the efficient use of available in-situ resources as well as the application of reduced mass stowable/deployable structures to space and planetary exploration. Environmental robustness, effective storage, and the use/transformation of native resources will be considered as integral parts of these technologies that can range from materials and components to full-scale structures.
Post dural puncture headache in a pediatric patient with idiopathic intracranial hypertension

We describe the occurrence of postdural puncture headache (PPDH) in an adolescent with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) and its successful management with an epidural blood patch. PPDH is a very rare occurrence in patients with intracranial hypertension and is described as a paradoxical situation in the literature. There are only two previous case reports (in adults) of the possible association. A 15-year-old obese patient with a diagnosis of IIH had an uneventful diagnostic spinal tap using a 22G Quincke needle in the pediatric emergency department but returned 24 h later with PPDH. After a failed trial of conservative management, she had an uneventful but curative epidural blood patch with 15 ml of autologous venous blood and was able to return to school the day after the blood patch. Follow-up review by her neuro-ophthalmologist shows resolution of her headaches, considerable improvement in her visual field defect and resolution of papilledema. This is the first report of PPDH and its successful management with an epidural blood patch in a pediatric patient with IIH.
Guidelines for the inter- and intrahospital transport of critically ill patients.

Objective: The development of practice guidelines for the conduct of intra- and interhospital transport of the critically ill patient. Data Source: Expert opinion and a search of Index Medicus from January 1986 through October 2001 provided the basis for these guidelines. A task force of experts in the field of patient transport provided personal experience and expert opinion. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Several prospective and clinical outcome studies were found. However, much of the published data comes from retrospective reviews and anecdotal reports. Experience and consensus opinion form the basis of much of these guidelines. Results of Data Synthesis: Each hospital should have a formalized plan for intra- and interhospital transport that addresses a) pretransport coordination and communication; b) transport personnel; c) transport equipment; d) monitoring during transport; and e) documentation. The transport plan should be developed by a multidisciplinary team and should be evaluated and refined regularly using a standard quality improvement process. Conclusion: The transport of critically ill patients carries inherent risks. These guidelines promote measures to ensure safe patient transport. Although both intra- and interhospital transport must comply with regulations, we believe that patient safety is enhanced during transport by establishing an organized, efficient process supported by appropriate equipment and personnel. (Crit Care Med 2004; 32:256 ‐262)
Biobehavioral Characteristics of a Culture-Bound Syndrome Perceived as Life-Threatening Illness

A loss of consciousness for most of a 4-day period characterizes a culture-bound syndrome known as ha ko botika that occurs among the Ngawbere, an indigenous population of northwestern Panama. The afflicted person remains immobile and does not eat, drink, speak, or respond to stimuli after onset of illness; then the afflicted person gradually begins to resume normative functioning and returns to participation in Ngawbere society. The 4-day illness represents the classic, more extreme form of "dreaming illness" among the Ngawbere, who recognize a number of other, less serious health problems that they associate with disvalued dream motifs. The preventive measures performed for dreaming illness in general and the treatment used specifically for ha ko botika are described, and the biobehavioral implications of the occurrence and treatment of the latter are discussed.