cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract B20: Characterization of tumor mutational landscape in smokers and nonsmokers with urothelial carcinoma

Introduction and Objectives: Smoking is a major risk factor for development of bladder cancer. It has been previously shown that smoking-related and non-smoking-related cancers have characteristic mutational signatures. Hypothesizing that somatic alterations differ between smokers and nonsmokers with urothelial carcinoma, we used next-generation sequencing to evaluate for differences in genomic alterations between these two groups of patients. Methods: We identified in our prospectively maintained institutional database all patients with urothelial carcinoma whose tumors underwent next-generation sequencing using the Memorial Sloan Kettering-Integrated Mutation Profiling of Actionable Cancer Targets (MSK-IMPACT) assay. A panel of genes previously reported by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) as being commonly mutated in bladder cancer was chosen for analysis. Results: A total of 1,044 samples from 968 patients were included in the analysis. Seven hundred eighty-five (85%) of the samples represented bladder tumors and 259 (25%) of the samples represented tumors of the upper tract. Patients with smoking history comprised 66% of the cohort. The most frequently altered genes in active or former smokers and never smokers were TERT promoter (55% and 60%), TP53 (43% and 41%), KDM6A (30% and 26%), and FGFR3 (27% and 26%). Conclusions: Mutational profiling of urothelial tumors in this large cohort of patients showed high incidence of genomic alterations consistent with prior studies. The frequency of alterations in these genes was similar between smokers and nonsmokers. To further understand smoking-related mutational process, we are examining mutational signatures and differences in genomic alterations as a function of smoking intensity exposure. Citation Format: Aleksandra Walasek, Nima Almassi, Min Yuen Teo, Samuel Funt, Nikolaus Schultz, Guido Dalbagni, Wenhu Hu, Hikmat Al-Ahmadie, Dean F Bajorin, Jonathan E Rosenberg, Gopakumar Iyer, Bernard H. Bochner, David B. Solit, Eugene J. Pietzak. Characterization of tumor mutational landscape in smokers and nonsmokers with urothelial carcinoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Bladder Cancer: Transforming the Field; 2019 May 18-21; Denver, CO. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2020;26(15_Suppl):Abstract nr B20.
Developing expert consensus on how to address weight stigma in public health research and practice: A Delphi study.

Some public health practices, especially those focused on weight loss, have been found to increase weight stigma, which is harmful to physical and mental health. We used the Delphi method to establish expert consensus on how to address weight stigma in public health. Our participants were recruited from a convenience sample of individuals attending a single-day symposium on public health prevention of eating disorders, though they reported having high levels of formal (education, employment) and informal (advocacy, lived experience in eating disorders) expertise, all of which was relevant to weight stigma. Three online surveys were completed by 88 experts. Of the 177 ideas presented, 68 were endorsed and 109 were rejected. Experts reached consensus on an array of topics: cross-disciplinary collaboration, the need for inclusivity and diversity, defining how weight stigma arises in research and practice, and advocating for change in popular culture and industry. Experts also agreed on the need to shift focus away from body weight toward health behaviors; however, they did not reach consensus on how to make that shift. Although this study requires replication with a larger and more diverse sample of experts, these initial outcomes provide clear recommendations for changes in public health research, practice, and policy, and highlight areas for further research. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)
Coordinated Multiwavelength Observations of BL Lacertae in 2000

BL Lacertae was the target of an extensive multiwavelength monitoring campaign in the second half of 2000. Simultaneous or quasi-simultaneous observations were taken at radio (UMRAO and Metsaehovi) and optical(WEBT collaboration) frequencies, in X-rays (BeppoSAX and RXTE), and at VHE gamma-rays (HEGRA). The WEBT optical campaign achieved an unprecedented time coverage, virtually continuous over several 10 - 20 hour segments. It revealed intraday variability on time scales of ~ 1.5 hours and evidence for spectral hardening associated with increasing optical flux. During the campaign, BL Lacertae underwent a major transition from a rather quiescent state prior to September 2000, to a flaring state for the rest of the year. This was also evident in the X-ray activity of the source. BeppoSAX observations on July 26/27 revealed a rather low X-ray flux and a hard spectrum, while a BeppoSAX pointing on Oct. 31 - Nov. 2, 2000, indicated significant variability on time scales of < a few hours, and provided evidence for the synchrotron spectrum extending out to ~ 10 keV during that time. During the July 26/27 observation, there is a tantalizing, though not statistically significant, indication of a time delay of ~ 4 - 5 hr between the BeppoSAX and the R-band light curve. Also, a low-significance detection of a time delay of 15 d between the 14.5 GHz and the 22 GHz radio light curves is reported. Several independent methods to estimate the co-moving magnetic field in the source are presented, suggesting a value of ~ 2 e_B^{2/7} G, where e_B is the magnetic-field equipartition factor w.r.t. the electron energy density in the jet.
Functional Differences between E. coli and ESKAPE Pathogen GroES/GroEL.

ABSTRACT As the GroES/GroEL chaperonin system is the only bacterial chaperone that is essential under all conditions, we have been interested in the development of GroES/GroEL inhibitors as potential antibiotics. Using Escherichia coli GroES/GroEL as a surrogate, we have discovered several classes of GroES/GroEL inhibitors that show potent antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. However, it remains unknown if E. coli GroES/GroEL is functionally identical to other GroES/GroEL chaperonins and hence if our inhibitors will function against other chaperonins. Herein we report our initial efforts to characterize the GroES/GroEL chaperonins from clinically significant ESKAPE pathogens (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species). We used complementation experiments in GroES/GroEL-deficient and -null E. coli strains to report on exogenous ESKAPE chaperone function. In GroES/GroEL-deficient (but not knocked-out) E. coli, we found that only a subset of the ESKAPE GroES/GroEL chaperone systems could complement to produce a viable organism. Surprisingly, GroES/GroEL chaperone systems from two of the ESKAPE pathogens were found to complement in E. coli, but only in the strict absence of either E. coli GroEL (P. aeruginosa) or both E. coli GroES and GroEL (E. faecium). In addition, GroES/GroEL from S. aureus was unable to complement E. coli GroES/GroEL under all conditions. The resulting viable strains, in which E. coligroESL was replaced with ESKAPE groESL, demonstrated similar growth kinetics to wild-type E. coli, but displayed an elongated phenotype (potentially indicating compromised GroEL function) at some temperatures. These results suggest functional differences between GroES/GroEL chaperonins despite high conservation of amino acid identity. IMPORTANCE The GroES/GroEL chaperonin from E. coli has long served as the model system for other chaperonins. This assumption seemed valid because of the high conservation between the chaperonins. It was, therefore, shocking to discover ESKAPE pathogen GroES/GroEL formed mixed-complex chaperonins in the presence of E. coli GroES/GroEL, leading to loss of organism viability in some cases. Complete replacement of E. coligroESL with ESKAPE groESL restored organism viability, but produced an elongated phenotype, suggesting differences in chaperonin function, including client specificity and/or refolding cycle rates. These data offer important mechanistic insight into these remarkable machines, and the new strains developed allow for the synthesis of homogeneous chaperonins for biochemical studies and to further our efforts to develop chaperonin-targeted antibiotics.
COVID-19 Impact on Pediatric Health: A survey of families in Wayne County, MI

Background. In response to the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the state mandated "Stay At Home" order included closure of schools and public places and physical distancing measures. As a result, social interactions among children were significantly impaired and pediatric outpatient offices and vaccination rates declined. We sought to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health as well as access to health care in our pediatric population in Wayne County, Michigan. Design/Methods. We conducted a survey through the Wayne County Public School Districts to elicit information regarding subjects' access to pediatric health care as well as experiences pertinent to their child(ren)'s mental health. Results. Approximately 8500 surveys were sent to families and 278 responses were received. Responses revealed that 46% of children spent more time alone during the pandemic, 36.9% had changes in sleep, 25.6% had little pleasure in doing things, and 32.5% were unhappy or sad. 66.2% were able to make new visits during the pandemic, however, 20.1% missed their child's doctors' visits for reasons including clinic cancellations and fear of entering a healthcare setting. Conclusions. The results of this survey demonstrate significant mental health concerns among our pediatric population as approximately 1/3 of families reported changes in behavior or mental health. As school closures persist in response to the ongoing pandemic and social interactions remain limited, it is imperative that pediatricians screen for depression, behavioral problems and other mental health concerns and offer families help to identify appropriate community mental health resources.
Fusiform Dilatation of the Internal Carotid Artery in Childhood-Onset Craniopharyngioma- A Systematic Review.

Objective Patients with fusiform dilation of the carotid artery (FDCA) following pediatric craniopharyngioma resection typically have a benign clinical course. We reviewed the neurosurgical literature for FDCA outcomes after resection of these tumors. Methods Using PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases, we identified surgical series or case reports reporting incidences of FDCA following craniopharyngioma resection. Inclusion criteria included FDCA outcomes reported specifically after craniopharyngioma resection, with at least 6 months of follow-up data. Results Our literature search yielded 12 full-text articles comprising 799 patients (376 [52.3%] males). The weighted mean follow-up was 74.8 months (range, 9–140 months). Most tumors were suprasellar (62.1%), with traditional microsurgery being more commonly employed than endoscopic endonasal surgery (80.9% vs. 19.1%). Gross total resection was achieved in 42.6% of cases. There were 55 aneurysms reported, most commonly occurring at the terminal internal carotid artery (66.7%). Aneurysmal progression on follow-up occurred in 10 (18.5%) cases, with no reports of rupture. Ten (18.2%) aneurysms were treated with clipping, endovascular, or bypass techniques. Conclusions FDCA is a rare complication following pediatric craniopharyngioma resection. The exact cause is unclear, and factors related to tumor invasiveness, size, location, and differences in surgical approach may contribute to FDCA development. Most patients who go on to develop FDCA have an innocuous course on follow-up, with no reports of rupture in the present literature. For this reason, patients rarely require surgical or endovascular intervention for these lesions, and conservative management is favored.
271 The development of a paediatric telephone triage tool in a cystic fibrosis unit in the UK

The paediatric CF unit at the RVI in Newcastle upon Tyne has 176 children who attend for full care from throughout the Northern region of the UK. Children are reviewed in clinic every 6 weeks, between clinics the CF team rely on parents/carers to report any increase in respiratory symptoms by telephone. Telephone triage, with particular reference to respiratory exacerbation, is a recognised service provided by most, if not all Paediatric CF centres within the UK. Documentation of this care episode was inadequate and not recorded in the patients' medical notes. This was identified as a potential risk. A review of current practice in UK CF centres identified an absence of a structured assessment triage tool. Various methods to record and report symptoms were described, however it was evident that there was a distinct lack of a consistent clinical approach to this area of care. Therefore a telephone triage tool was developed in October 2013 to enable the CF nurses to assess children using a symptom based protocol. The proforma enables the nurses to identify a respiratory exacerbation, it utilises a systematic approach which identifies the presenting problems and moves through a series of prompts which aid the nurse make a decision. The outcomes are determined by the information gathered. A retrospective review covering a period of 12 months has indicated that the tool is working effectively. The review has highlighted some areas for development such as an early warning/traffic light system. Few such tools have been developed that are particular to CF respiratory symptoms and it is envisaged that following further development, it may be implemented by other CF MDT members.
Time and change in the development of the individual and society.

Publisher Summary Time in the natural sciences has an absolute zero point, which is arbitrarily determined by the initiation of a particular process, for instance by the activation of a watch. Absolute zero points are not given by “nature” but are delineated through the development of scientific theories and techniques. When considering psychological and social processes, zero points in time are always arbitrarily defined. By defining its units, the periodicity of time represents the basis for time measurements. These units could be the solar year, the lunar month, or the terrestrial day. Practical measurements rely on the isomorphism between these astronomical units and those more directly accessible for the manipulations, such as the swing of the pendulum or the vibration in quartz molecules. This chapter examines how time units of psychological and sociological processes might be defined.
CLIN-E - Smallest Instance First Hyper-Linking

Hyper-linking is an instance-based automated theorem proving strategy that uses unification to generate instances of the input clauses. Lee implemented hyper-linking in the automated theorem prover CLIN, which uses a breadth-first strategy for generating instances of clauses via the hyper-link operation. In attempting to add equality support to CLIN, a number of inefficiencies with Lee’s breadth-first strategy for generating instances were encountered. An alternative depth-first strategy, referred to as smallest-instance-first hyper-linking, for generating instances via the hyper-link operation was developed to address these inefficiencies. Smallest-instance-first hyper-linking is implemented in the automated theorem prover CLIN-E.
The regulation of gluconeogenesis in isolated rat liver cells by glucagon, insulin, dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate, and fatty acids.

Abstract Suspensions of rat liver cells from starved rats converted three carbon precursors to glucose and responded to hormones such as glucagon and insulin. Cells were isolated by perfusion of rat livers with calcium-free Hanks' solution containing 0.01 g% of collagenase and 0.08 g% of hyaluronidase in the presence of 4% defatted albumin. Cells from 18- to 24-hour starved rats synthesized glucose de novo from l-alanine at rates comparable to those observed in the perfused liver. Glucagon increased cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate accumulation in liver cells with the maximal effect being observed some 2 min after its addition. In cells from fed rats there was an immediate increase due to glucagon of glucose release which could be accounted for by glycogenolysis. In cells from starved rats there was almost no glycogen (0.5% for starved rats as compared to 7.5% for fed rats), and there was a 20-min lag period before glucose output was increased by glucagon. Glucagon stimulated gluconeogenesis in the presence of alanine, lactate, or pyruvate whereas added fatty acids inhibited gluconeogenesis from alanine and stimulated that from lactate or pyruvate. Insulin increased glycogen deposition in cells from starved rats, and this accounted for the decrease in glucose output seen with insulin. Dibutyryl cyclic AMP also stimulated gluconeogenesis in isolated liver cells. The effects of insulin and glucagon on liver cells were abolished by short term treatment of cell suspensions with trypsin. In contrast, the response to dibutyryl cyclic AMP was not altered in the trypsin-treated cells.
Decentralized Local Pole-Placement Control Design using Static Output Feedback

This paper proposes Pole- placement control design procedures using static output feedback. The pole-placement problem is posed as a multilinear design problem. To guarantee that a real solution exists to the multilinear pole-placement equation, the concept of placing the closed-loop poles locally about the open loop poles is introduced. The number of closed-loop poles that can be arbitrarily placed locally is shown to be equal to the rank of an output feedback controllability matrix. The multilinear design approach can readily incorporate the decentralized output feedback pole-placement problem. A characterization of the non- existence of decentralized fixed modes without computing eigenvalues can be developed. Several numerical techniques for solving the multilinear pole-placement equation are discussed.
Cost-Effectiveness of Pediatric Heart Transplantation Across a Positive Crossmatch for High Waitlist Urgency Candidates

Allosensitized children listed with a requirement for a negative prospective crossmatch have high mortality. Previously, we found that listing with the intent to accept the first suitable organ offer, regardless of the possibility of a positive crossmatch (TAKE strategy), results in a survival advantage from the time of listing compared to awaiting transplantation across a negative crossmatch (WAIT). The cost-effectiveness of these strategies is unknown. We used Markov modeling to compare cost-effectiveness between these waitlist strategies for allosensitized children listed urgently for heart transplantation. We used registry data to estimate costs and waitlist/posttransplant outcomes. We assumed patients remained in hospital after listing, no positive crossmatches for WAIT, and a base-case probability of a positive crossmatch of 47% for TAKE. Accepting the first suitable organ offer cost less ($405 904 vs. $534 035) and gained more quality-adjusted life years (3.71 vs. 2.79). In sensitivity analyses, including substitution of waitlist data from children with unacceptable antigens specified during listing, TAKE remained cost-saving or cost-effective. Our findings suggest acceptance of the first suitable organ offer for urgently listed allosensitized pediatric heart transplant candidates is cost-effective and transplantation should not be denied because of allosensitization status alone.
Coronin: the double-edged sword of actin dynamics.

Coronin is a conserved actin binding protein that promotes cellular processes that rely on rapid remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton, including endocytosis and cell motility. However, the exact mechanism by which coronin contributes to actin dynamics has remained elusive for many years. Here, we integrate observations from many groups and propose a unified model to explain how coronin controls actin dynamics through coordinated effects on Arp2/3 complex and cofilin. At the front end of actin networks, coronin protects new (ATP-rich) filaments from premature disassembly by cofilin and recruits Arp2/3 complex to filament sides, leading to nucleation, branching and network expansion. At the rear of networks, coronin has strikingly different activities, synergizing with cofilin to dismantle old (ADP-rich) filaments. Thus, coronin spatially targets Arp2/3 complex and cofilin to opposite ends of actin networks. The net effect of coronin’s activities is acceleration of polarized actin subunit flux through filamentous arrays. This increases actin network plasticity and replenishes the actin monomer pool required for new filament growth.
Pathophysiology of Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is the leading cause of nephrology consultation and is associated with high mortality rates. The primary causes of AKI include ischemia, hypoxia or nephrotoxicity. An underlying feature is a rapid decline in GFR usually associated with decreases in renal blood flow. Inflammation represents an important additional component of AKI leading to the extension phase of injury, which may be associated with insensitivity to vasodilator therapy. It is suggested that targeting the extension phase represents an area potential of treatment with the greatest possible impact. The underlying basis of renal injury appears to be impaired energetics of the highly metabolically active nephron segments (i.e., proximal tubules and thick ascending limb) in the renal outer medulla, which can trigger conversion from transient hypoxia to intrinsic renal failure. Injury to kidney cells can be lethal or sublethal. Sublethal injury represents an important component in AKI, as it may profoundly influence GFR and renal blood flow. The nature of the recovery response is mediated by the degree to which sublethal cells can restore normal function and promote regeneration. The successful recovery from AKI depends on the degree to which these repair processes ensue and these may be compromised in elderly or CKD patients. Recent data suggest that AKI represents a potential link to CKD in surviving patients. Finally, earlier diagnosis of AKI represents an important area in treating patients with AKI that has spawned increased awareness of the potential that biomarkers of AKI may play in the future.
Metoda generacji wybuchowych dynamicznych obciążeń symulujących tąpnięcie

The idea of application of a method for generation of explosive dynamic loads simulating a crump to dynamical testing of structural components of lining is presented. The description of a test stand is given and the results of preliminary investigations carried out on the stand are shown. A theoretical model describing the dynamical loads generated by the explosion method is proposed. Results of a theoretical analysis of load parameters are discussed and compared with that of the experiment.
Privacy-Preserving data set union

This paper describes a cryptographic protocol for merging two or more data sets without divulging those identifying records; technically, the protocol computes a blind set-theoretic union. Applications for this protocol arise, for example, in data analysis for biomedical application areas, where identifying fields (e.g., patient names) are protected by governmental privacy regulations or by institutional research board policies.
Metastases to the kidney: a comprehensive analysis of 151 patients from a tertiary referral centre

Objective To describe the presentation, treatment and outcomes of patients with metastatic tumours to the kidney treated at a tertiary referral centre. Patients and Methods We retrospectively identified 151 patients diagnosed with a primary non-renal malignancy with renal metastasis. Clinical, radiographic and pathological characteristics were assessed. Overall survival (OS) was calculated using Kaplan–Meier methods. Results The median patient age was 56.7 years. The most common presenting symptoms were flank pain (30%), haematuria (16%) and weight loss (12%). Most primary cancers were carcinomas (80.8%). The most common primary tumour sites were lung (43.7%), colorectal (10.6%), head and neck (6%), breast (5.3%), soft tissue (5.3%) and thyroid (5.3%). Renal metastases were typically solitary (77.5%). Concordance between radiologist and clinician imaging assessment was 54.0%. Three ablations and 48 nephrectomies were performed. For non-surgical patients, renal metastasis diagnosis was made with fine-needle aspiration or biopsy. The median OS from primary tumour diagnosis was 3.08 years and the median OS from time of metastatic diagnosis was 1.13 years. For patients treated with surgery, median OS from primary tumour diagnosis was 4.81 years, and OS from metastatic diagnosis was 2.24 years. Conclusions Metastases to the kidney are a rare entity. Survival appears to be longer in patients who are candidates for and are treated with surgery. Surgical intervention in carefully selected patients with oligometastatic disease and good performance status should be considered. A multidisciplinary approach with input from urologists, oncologists, radiologists and pathologists is needed to achieve the optimum outcomes for this specific patient population.
The protein-sparing modified fast for adolescents with severe obesity: a case series.

Background. Severely obese youth respond poorly to current conventional lifestyle interventions when compared with their overweight and obese peers. The protein-sparing modified fast (PSMF) intervention is a reduced-calorie, low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet that is thought to improve weight loss. The objective of this study is to describe 2 inpatient cases and 1 outpatient case that used the PSMF for adolescents. Methods. Three patients followed a PSMF for approximately 12 to 52 weeks, initially consuming 20 to 40 grams of carbohydrate per day for the first 12 weeks. Two of these patients were admitted as inpatients for the first 2 to 4 weeks of the diet. Results. The PSMF led to rapid weight loss and a decrease in body mass index. For 2 patients, there was an improvement in liver function tests or liver disease following the PSMF diet. All the patients demonstrated an improvement in some abnormal laboratory indices, for example, liver function tests and hemoglobin A1c, but had a clinically insignifica...
A periplasmic intermediate in the extracellular secretion pathway of Pseudomonas aeruginosa exotoxin A.

Abstract Pseudomonas aeruginosa exotoxin A is synthesized with a secretion signal peptide typical of proteins whose final destination is the periplasm. However, exotoxin A is released from the cell without a detectable periplasmic pool, suggesting that additional determinants in this protein are important for recognition by a specialized machinery of extracellular secretion. The role of the N terminus of the mature exotoxin A in this recognition was investigated. A series of exotoxin A proteins with amino acid substitutions for the glutamic acid pair at the +2 and +3 positions were constructed by mutagenesis of the exotoxin A gene. These N-terminal acidic residues of the mature exotoxin A protein were found to be important not only for efficient processing of the precursor protein but also for extracellular localization of the toxin. The mutated exotoxin A proteins, in which a glutamic acid at the +2 position was replaced by a lysine or a double substitution of lysine and glutamine for the pair of adjacent glutamic acids, accumulated in precursor forms in the mixed cytoplasmic and membrane fractions, which was not seen with the wild-type exotoxin A. The processing of the precursor form of one exotoxin A mutant, in which the glutamic acid at the +2 position was replaced with a glutamine, was not affected. Moreover, a substantial fraction of the mature forms of all three mutants of exotoxin A accumulated in the periplasm, while wild-type exotoxin A could be detected only extracellularly. The periplasmic pools of these variants of exotoxin A could therefore represent the intermediate state during extracellular secretion. The signal for extracellular localization may be located in a small region near the amino terminus of the mature protein or could consist of several regions that are brought together after the polypeptide has folded. Alternatively, the acidic residues may be important for ensuring a conformation essential for exotoxin A to traverse the outer membrane.
A note on random sets mosaics

S-mosaics are mathematical structures which arise in many different contexts in theoretical biology. As a first step toward understanding the properties of these objects, we give an exact analytic formula f(n), the average fractional (hyper)volume of the smaller of the two segments produced when two points are placed randomly in an n-dimensional hypersphere (n = 1,2,3,...).
Tight approximation algorithms for maximum general assignment problems

A separable assignment problem (SAP) is defined by a set of bins and a set of items to pack in each bin; a value, fij, for assigning item j to bin i; and a separate packing constraint for each bin - i.e. for bin i, a family Li of subsets of items that fit in bin i. The goal is to pack items into bins to maximize the aggregate value. This class of problems includes the maximum generalized assignment problem (GAP)1) and a distributed caching problem (DCP) described in this paper.Given a β-approximation algorithm for finding the highest value packing of a single bin, we give1. A polynomial-time LP-rounding based ((1 − 1/e)β)-approximation algorithm.2. A simple polynomial-time local search (β/β+1 - e) - approximation algorithm, for any e > 0.Therefore, for all examples of SAP that admit an approximation scheme for the single-bin problem, we obtain an LP-based algorithm with (1 - 1/e - e)-approximation and a local search algorithm with (1/2-e)-approximation guarantee. Furthermore, for cases in which the subproblem admits a fully polynomial approximation scheme (such as for GAP), the LP-based algorithm analysis can be strengthened to give a guarantee of 1 - 1/e. The best previously known approximation algorithm for GAP is a 1/2-approximation by Shmoys and Tardos; and Chekuri and Khanna. Our LP algorithm is based on rounding a new linear programming relaxation, with a provably better integrality gap.To complement these results, we show that SAP and DCP cannot be approximated within a factor better than 1 -1/e unless NP⊆ DTIME(nO(log log n)), even if there exists a polynomial-time exact algorithm for the single-bin problem.We extend the (1 - 1/e)-approximation algorithm to a nonseparable assignment problem with applications in maximizing revenue for budget-constrained combinatorial auctions and the AdWords assignment problem. We generalize the local search algorithm to yield a 1/2-e approximation algorithm for the k-median problem with hard capacities. Finally, we study naturally defined game-theoretic versions of these problems, and show that they have price of anarchy of 2. We also prove the existence of cycles of best response moves, and exponentially long best-response paths to (pure or sink) equilibria.
Raman Characterization Of Molecular Bonding And Phase Homogeneity In Thin Optical Films

Submicrometer dielectric films have been analyzed by Raman spectroscopic techniques with respect to phase composition and homogeneity. Residual film stress has also been evaluated from measured vibrational band shifts in sol-gel as well as sputter-deposited films using available data from bulk studies of the pressure dependence on Raman frequencies. Dynamic studies of temperature and laser-induced phase transformations have been performed in situ, suggesting the applicability of this technique for film analysis during deposition. The potential advantages and limitations associated with Raman characterization of thin dielectric films will be addressed in this review using examples from current research in this area.
The Effect of Support Flexibility and Damping on the Synchronous Response of a Single-Mass Flexible Rotor

Single mass flexible rotor in elastic bearings mounted on damped flexible supports, analyzing dynamic unbalance response and transient motions
Environment, Quality of Life, and Urban Growth in the New Economy

Sooner or later, most environmental professionals will be affected by the national smart growth movement, which addresses suburban sprawl and urban revitalization. Environmental sustainability is at the heart of more sustainable economic growth—which means growth that does not sacrifice quality of life for economic prosperity. This article summarizes the findings of a recent report on the linkage between growth and quality of life in the new economy, with a special emphasis on the role of governors. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Solar absorption cooling feasibility

Abstract The feasibility of small scale solar absorption cooling systems is dependent upon its technical and economically competitive position with respect to other cooling systems alternatives. Technical feasibility can be shown by comparisons of the thermodynamic efficiency of solar absorption cooling with conventional vapor-compression cooling equipment and by reference to numerous experimental evaluations. Economic feasibility is heavily dependent upon the financial parameters assumed (in particular the inflation rate of conventional fuel costs). In particular cases, i.e. particular assumptions of the financial parameters, economic feasibility of solar absorption cooling can be demonstrated.
The impact of surgical volume on patient outcomes following thyroid surgery

Background This study aimed to evaluate the effects of indications for thyroidectomy on patient outcomes and to examine the impact of surgical volume on these outcomes. Methods The nationwide inpatient sample was used to identify all patients who underwent total thyroidectomy (TT) between 2000 and 2009. We examined the effects of surgeon volume and hospital characteristics on predicting patient outcomes. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to examine the effects of the indication for surgical care on postoperative outcomes. Results Overall, 46,261 procedures were identified. Patients with Graves disease had the highest postoperative complications (17.5%) compared to patients undergoing TT for other benign (13.9%) and malignant (13.2%) thyroid disease ( P P P = .81). Hospital volume had an inconsistent and marginal protective effect on postoperative outcomes. Conclusion Surgery for Graves disease is associated with a higher risk for complications when performed by less experienced surgeons. This finding should prompt recommendations for increasing surgical specialization and referrals to high-volume surgeons in the management of Graves disease.
Removing the black box warning for depot medroxyprogesterone acetate.

This commentary explains why the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) should remove the black box warning regarding skeletal health on the package labeling for the injectable contraceptive depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA). It states that by depriving women of long-term use of this safe effective product this black box warning hurts the public health. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
An alternative view of appropriate practice in early childhood education

Abstract The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) have both published position papers espousing developmentally appropriate practice in early childhood education programs. Such programs are usually based upon varying interpretations of Piaget's developmental theory and frequently focus upon child-directed learning and informal learning practices. This article sets forth an alternative view that programs which serve young children may need to be concerned with both developmental and instructional theory and that children can benefit from some structured learning. A program incorporating these views is carefully described in terms of its theoretical perspectives and classroom practices. This program is then compared to the NAEYC description of appropriate and inappropriate practice. The match/nonmatch is noted and discussed.
Additional Data on the Shooting of President Kennedy

The journalhas performed a great service in persuading Humes, Boswell, and Finck to answer extended queries about the details of the autopsy of President Kennedy. 1,2 They replied directly to many of the questions raised by the critics of the Warren Commission report, an excellent move toward "full disclosure." However, we must remember that Humes, Boswell, and Finck wrote their autopsy report without seeing the color photographs or studying in detail the roentgenograms of the body that were taken at the autopsy. The photographs had been confiscated by the Attorney General (the President's brother) without being developed, and they were then turned over to the National Archives (from which they have never been released). The basis for this confiscation was the family's desire that the photographs of the President's exploded head not appear in every bookstore window, as they would have had See also pp 1507, 1540, and 1552.
The Unifying Power of a Whole-School Read

This article describes an urban middle school community that took part in a yearlong literacy engagement—a whole-school read of a young adult novel. The authors, three researchers from a nearby university, documented the yearlong event and the effect it had on the school's academic and social spaces. Relying on the perspective that literacy is ideologically laden and on Bernstein's conceptions of pedagogy, the authors found that the whole-school read served as a unifying concept that created learning environments in which “things were put together.” Teachers entertained uncertainty toward learning outcomes and valued a text that could connect to students' lives and open doors for discussion of critical issues. Within the school's learning spaces, readers came to deeper understandings of text and each other through dialogue, teachers and students across grade levels collaborated, and boundaries between previously segregated subject areas were blurred.
Association between energy availability and physical activity in older adults.

OBJECTIVE Age-related declines in physical activity are commonly observed in human and animal populations, but their physiologic bases are not fully understood. The authors hypothesize that a lack of available energy contributes to low levels of activity in older persons. DESIGN Cross-sectional analyses of relationships between physical activity level and energy availability were performed in 602 community-dwelling volunteers aged 45-91 yrs from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging. Energy expenditure was measured at rest and during a maximal 400-m walk for calculation of "available energy." Overall and vigorous physical activity levels were assessed using standardized questionnaires. General linear regression models were used to assess the relationships between available energy and general and vigorous physical activity, and stratified analyses were used to analyze the possible differential association between available energy and physical activity across high and low (peak sustained walking oxygen consumption per unit time, <18.3 ml of oxygen per kilogram per minute) levels of aerobic fitness. RESULTS Low available energy was associated with low levels of total physical activity (β = 64.678, P = 0.015) and vigorous activity (β = 9.123, P < 0.0001). The direct relationship between available energy and physical activity was particularly strong in persons categorized as having low aerobic fitness between available energy and physical activity with both total (β = 119.783, P = 0.022) and vigorous activity (β = 10.246, P = 0.015) and was independent of body composition and age. CONCLUSIONS The findings from this study support the hypothesis that available energy promotes the maintenance of physical activity in older persons. The findings also run counter to the perception that age-related declines in physical activity are primarily societally or behaviorally driven.
EFFECT OF MgCl2/SODIUM PYROPHOSPHATE ON CHICKEN BREAST MUSCLE MYOSIN SOLUBILIZATION AND GELATION

Sodium chloride (0.29 M) at pH 7 solubilized about 24% of the myosin of washed, minced chicken breast muscle. At a similar pH, 0.2 M sodium chloride in the presence of 10 mM sodium pyrophosphate and 10 mM magnesium chloride solubilized almost 60% of the myosin. In spite of the greater solubility of myosin under the latter conditions, when gels were prepared with these concentrations of salt at pH 7, the gels without the sodium pyrophosphate and magnesium chloride were slightly superior in both stress (39. 3 kPa vs 28.3 kPa) and true strain (2.3 vs 2.0) values. Gels made at a lower pH (6.1-6.5) made much poorer gels. This was true whether the low pH was obtained naturally in the preparation of the sample or re-adjusted after bringing the mince to a neutral pH. It appears that conditions ofpH and salt content that cause solubilization of myosin at more dilute conditions does not contribute to gel quality, but the neutral pH is an important factor for obtaining good gels at ionic strengths La viande de poitrine de poulet est interessante pour la fabrication de produits du genre surimi de volaille. Les objectifs de cette recherche sont de solubiliser la myosine sous des conditions de force ionique proche des conditions physilogiques et de determiner l'effet de ces conditions de teneur en sel et de pH sur les proprietes de gelification des proteines du muscle. La solubilisation de la myosine est superieure lorsque l'on associe le chlorure de sodium a du pyrophosphate de sodium et du chlorure de magnesium mais les gels obtenus sont de moins bonne qualite. Un pH neutre est un facteur favorisant la qualite des gels a des forces ioniques <0,3.
First-Principles-Based Monte Carlo Simulation of Ethylene Hydrogenation Kinetics on Pd

A first-principles-based kinetic Monte Carlo algorithm was used to simulate catalytic kinetics of ethylene hydrogenation on the well-defined Pd(100) surface. An intrinsic kinetic database was established from first-principles density functional quantum chemical calculations. This database was supplemented by an interaction model that was developed from 1750 extended Huckel calculations that explicitly examined adsorbate–adsorbate interactions between ethyl, ethylene, and hydrogen. Subsequently, this database was used to simulate ethylene hydrogenation kinetics via a multisite Monte Carlo algorithm that treats coverage-dependent activation energies through bond-order conservation methods. The simulated apparent activation energy for ethylene hydrogenation was found to be 9–12 kcal/mol, which compares well with experimental measurements of 6–11 kcal/mol. Kinetic orders vary with temperature and partial pressures of ethylene and hydrogen, but compare well with experiments under similar conditions. Simulated kinetic orders in hydrogen and ethylene are 0.65 to 0.85 and −0.4 to 0, respectively, under our conditions (298 K, PH2=100 Torr, PC2H4=25 Torr). The simulation results suggest that interactions in the adlayer, ensemble size effects, and adsorption site competition contribute to hydrogen kinetic orders that are less than one and negative orders in ethylene.
1.1-J, 120-fs laser system based on Nd:glass-pumped Ti:sapphire

We have developed an ultrashort-pulse laser system in which the final Ti:sapphire amplifier stage is pumped by the frequency-doubled output of a Nd:glass laser. The laser produces pulses with an energy in excess of 1 J on target and an estimated peak focused irradiance of 5 x 10(19) W/cm(2).
No evidence of mumps transmission during air travel, United States, November 1, 2006-October 31, 2010.

Summary Since November 2006, flight-related mumps contact investigations were conducted in the United States only for flights ≥5 h long after an investigation showed minimal risk of mumps transmission on flights We examined data from mumps contact investigations that were initiated by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) from November 2006 to October 2010. We also cross-referenced passenger-contact data with data on mumps cases in the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS). Twenty-seven cases met inclusion criteria. Of 246 passengers identified as contacts, 166 (67%) were distributed to a US health department for contact tracing. Outcomes were reported for 21 (13%) of those 166 passengers. No secondary cases of mumps among passenger contacts were reported or identified by cross-referencing NNDSS data. The findings suggested that in-flight risk of mumps transmission is not high. Furthermore, these investigations have low yield, are resource intensive, there is no post-exposure prophylaxis, and mumps transmission has not been eliminated in the United States. Therefore, CDC discontinued conducting flight-related mumps contact investigations in May 2011.
Treatment of radiation-induced dermatitis with light-emitting diode (LED) photomodulation.

Background and Objective Light-emitting diode (LED) photomodulation increases dermal collagen and reduces inflammation. This study evaluated the use of LED photomodulation in the prevention of radiation-induced dermatitis in breast cancer. Materials and Methods Patients (n = 19) were treated with LED photomodulation (Gentlewaves™, Light BioScience, LLC, Virginia Beach, VA) after each of a series of intensity-modulated radiation treatments (IMRT). Skin reactions were monitored weekly with National Cancer Institute (NCI) criteria. Age-matched controls (n = 28) received IMRT without LED photomodulation. Results In LED-treated patients, 18 (94.7%) had grade 0 or 1 reaction and 1 (5.3%) had grade 2 reaction. Among controls, 4 (14.3%) had a grade 1 reaction, 24 (85.7%) had a grade 2 or 3 reaction. One LED-treated patient (5.3%) and 19 controls (67.9%) had to interrupt treatment. Conclusion LED photomodulation treatments immediately after IMRT reduces the incidence of NCI grades 1, 2, and 3 skin reactions in patients with breast cancer treated by radiation therapy (RT) postlumpectomy. Lasers Surg. Med. 39:164–168, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Direct Quantification of PM2.5 Fossil and Biomass Carbon within the Northern Front Range Air Quality Study's Domain

Radiocarbon (14C) analyses of PM2.5 (particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 μm or less) of both ambient and source samples from the Northern Front Range Air Quality Study (NFRAQS) in Colorado were performed. The 14C analyses were undertaken to provide direct fossil vs modern (biomass) carbon source discrimination data for a subset of summer and winter 1996−1997 samples collected within the Denver metropolitan area. Samples were prepared for 14C accelerator mass spectrometry measure ments using techniques specially developed for small samples, i.e., <100 μg C. For the days and sampling periods analyzed the median and interquartile range of the winter blank corrected fraction of modern carbon was 23% (16−34%) at Welby and 27% (25−37%) at Brighton. The summer samples exhibited a more mixed signature with a median and interquartile range of 47% (9−70%). Source samples yielded 14C signatures consistent with expectation. We conclude fossil-derived sources contribute substantially in both seasons...