cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intrusive thoughts and avoidance in breast cancer: Individual differences and association with psychological distress

Abstract Eighty-five women with newly diagnosed breast cancer were classified on the basis of high and low levels of cancer-related intrusive thoughts and avoidance at diagnosis, and their psychological adjustment was studied prospectively at 3 and 6 months post diagnosis. Patients who initially reported high levels of both intrusive thoughts and avoidance and those who reported high levels of intrusive thoughts but low avoidance experienced the highest levels of anxiety and depression symptoms, and continued intrusive thoughts and avoidance. Patients who were high in avoidance but low in intrusive thoughts also experienced adjustment problems, including increased intrusive thoughts, when compared with patients who were low in both types of symptoms. The findings highlight the value of considering subgroup differences in patterns of intrusion and avoidance as predictors of subsequent psychological adjustment to breast cancer.
Inhibition of platelet aggregation by monoclonal antibody reactive with beta 2-microglobulin chain of HLA complex

A mouse monoclonal antibody that reacts with beta 2-microglobulin, the light chain of class I major histocompatibility antigens, inhibited the second wave of human platelet aggregation induced by adenosine diphosphate and epinephrine and blocked aggregation and platelet protein phosphorylation induced by sodium arachidonate. Thrombin-induced platelet aggregation was inhibited at threshold concentrations but not at higher concentrations. The antibody also inhibited aggregation and secretion in response to thromboxane A2 or the stable endoperoxide analog, U46619. These results suggest that beta 2-microglobulin in the histocompatibility complex is intimately associated with transmission of the endoperoxide-thromboxane signal at the platelet membrane.
Assessment of Inundation Risk from Sea Level Rise and Storm Surge in Northeastern Coastal National Parks

ABSTRACT Murdukhayeva, A.; August, P.; Bradley, M.; LaBash, C., and Shaw, N., 2013. Assessment of inundation risk from sea level rise and storm surge in northeastern coastal national parks. Sea level rise and an increase in storm frequency and intensity are two major impacts expected to result from climate change in coastal ecosystems. Coastal national parks have many low-lying areas that are at risk from inundation resulting from these impacts. To help park managers meet their goal of preserving resources, we developed a methodology to evaluate risk of inundation from sea level rise and storm surge at sentinel sites, areas of importance for natural, cultural, and infrastructural resources. We selected the most recent, readily available, and appropriate geospatial tools, models, and data sets to conduct case studies of our coastal inundation risk assessments in two northeastern coastal national parks—Cape Cod National Seashore, MA, and Assateague Island National Seashore, MD/VA. We collected elevation dat...
Adsorption of water-soluble polymers on high surface area solids. II. Poly (oxyethylene): Complexity with simplicity

Abstract The adsorption of poly(oxyethylene) as a function of concentration and molecular weight on four different peptized cation montmorillonites is examined. An adsorption—time dependence is observed at 2500 ppm poly(oxyethylene) on NH 4 + , but not with Ca 2+ clays. Nitrogen containing synthetic water-soluble polymers are also investigated. Oxygen ether or amine linkages are important to entrapment the polymer in the clay's interlayer. With Ca 2+ montmorillonite, only oxyethylene units with their segmental flexibility are able to penetrate the interlayer of the unexpanded clay in aqueous slurries. Symmetry and increased ordering of the clay as a function of poly(oxyethylene) molecular weight and concentration are observed in the adsorption studies. Competitive adsorption on NH 4 + clays reveals the following displacement order: low molecular weight amine > poly(oxyethylene) of any molecular weight > cellulose ethers of any molar substitution level.
SUBTHRUST INTERPRETATION CONSTRAINED BY FAULT PLANE REFLECTIVITY CORRELATION: POST-STACK TIME MIGRATION AND PRE-STACK DEPTH MIGRATION MODELING

The problem of accurately imaging sedimentary reflectors distorted by the effects of faults continues to be the subject of much contemporary research (Fagin, 1991; Fagin, 1996). However, in this study we focus upon the complementary problem of accurately imaging the fault plane through a wave field that is distorted by the structured stratigraphy. Given the stratal discontinuities associated with faults, reflectivity changes in amplitude and in polarity predictably occur along the fault surface as the stratigraphy in juxtaposition across the fault surface changes. This juxtaposition relationship results in a predictable reflectivity along the fault trace that can be correlated to the reflectivity sequence where imaging is not a problem. This correlation technique could then provide critical constraints upon the subthrust interpretation. Critical juxtaposition relationships not only constrain the geometry of the subthrust structures but helps evaluate fault fluid transmissivity and sealing potential.
Protein kinase C ligands based on tetrahydrofuran templates containing a new set of phorbol ester pharmacophores.

A series of substituted tetrahydrofurans with an embedded glycerol backbone carrying additional tetrahydrofuranylideneacetate or tetrahydrofuranylacetate motifs were grouped into four distinct temp...
Resistin-Like Molecule Alpha Reduces Gallbladder Optimal Tension

Insulin resistance is associated with increased gallbladder volume and impaired gallbladder emptying. Resistin and resistin-like molecule alpha (RELM-α) are adipose-derived hormones that are believed to mediate insulin resistance. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that administration of resistin or RELM-α would cause insulin resistance and diminish gallbladder contractility. In two sequential studies 40 eight-week-old nondiabetic lean mice were fed a chow diet for 4 weeks. In Study A, 10 mice received 20 μg of resistin IP, while in Study B 10 mice received 20 μg of RELM-α IP for seven days. In each study, 10 control mice received an equal volume of saline IP for seven days. At 12 weeks animals were fasted and underwent cholecystectomy, and in vitro gallbladder response to neurotransmitters was determined. Serum resistin, RELM-α, glucose, and insulin levels were measured. HOMA index, a measure of insulin resistance, was calculated. RELM-α significantly increased HOMA index. RELM-α decreased gallbladder optimal tension, but did not alter responses to neurotransmitters. Resistin had no effect on HOMA index or on gallbladder optimal tension or response. These data suggest that in nondiabetic lean mice: 1) resistin does not alter insulin resistance or gallbladder optimal tension, but 2) RELM-α increases insulin resistance and reduces gallbladder optimal tension. Therefore, we concluded that RELM-α may play a role in insulin-resistance mediated gallbladder dysmotility.
Development of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) as a bioenergy feedstock in the United States.

Abstract A 10-year US Department of Energy-sponsored research program designed to evaluate and develop switchgrass ( Panicum virgatum ), a native perennial warm-season grass, as a dedicated energy crop is reviewed. The programmatic objectives were to identify the best varieties and management practices to optimize productivity, while developing an understanding of the basis for long-term improvement of switchgrass through breeding and sustainable production in conventional agroecosystems. This research has reduced the projected production cost of switchgrass by about 25% ($8–9 Mg −1 ) through yield increases of about 50% achieved through selection of the best regionally adapted varieties; through optimizing cutting frequency and timing; and by reducing the level (by about 40%) and timing of nitrogen fertilization. Breeding research has made further gains in productivity of switchgrass that exceed the historical rate of yield improvement of corn. Studies of soil carbon storage under switchgrass indicate significant carbon sequestration will occur in soils that will improve soil productivity and nutrient cycling and can substantially augment greenhouse gas reductions associated with substituting renewable energy for fossil energy. Collaborative research with industry has included fuel production and handling in power production, herbicide testing and licensing, release of new cultivars, and genetic modifications for chemical coproduct enhancement. Economically based life cycle analyses based on this research suggest that switchgrass produced for energy will compete favorably both as an agricultural crop and as fuel for industry.
Potentiation of Human Estrogen Receptor α Transcriptional Activation through Phosphorylation of Serines 104 and 106 by the Cyclin A-CDK2 Complex

Both estradiol binding and phosphorylation regulate transcriptional activation by the human estrogen receptor α (ER). We have previously shown that activation of the cyclin A-CDK2 complex by overexpression of cyclin A leads to enhanced ER-dependent transcriptional activation and that the cyclin A-CDK2 complex phosphorylates the ER N-terminal activation function-1 (AF-1) between residues 82 and 121. Within ER AF-1, serines 104, 106, and 118 represent potential CDK phosphorylation sites, and in this current study, we ascertain their importance in mediating cyclin A-CDK2-dependent enhancement of ER transcriptional activity. Cyclin A overexpression does not enhance transcriptional activation by an ER derivative bearing serine-to-alanine changes at residues 104, 106, and 118. Likewise, the cyclin A-CDK2 complex does not phosphorylate this triple-mutated derivative in vitro. Individual serine-to-alanine mutations at residues 104 and 106, but not 118, decrease ER-dependent transcriptional enhancement in response to cyclin A. The same relationship holds for ER phosphorylation by cyclin A-CDK2 in vitro. Finally, enhancement of ER transcriptional activation by cyclin A is evident in the absence and presence of estradiol, as well as in the presence of tamoxifen, suggesting that the effect of the cyclin A-CDK2 on ER transcriptional activation is AF-2-independent. These results indicate that the enhancement of ER transcriptional activation by the cyclin A-CDK2 complex is mediated via the AF-1 domain by phosphorylation of serines 104 and 106. We propose that these residues control ER AF-1 activity in response to signals that affect cyclin A-CDK2 function.
Repair and regeneration: opportunities for carcinogenesis from tissue stem cells.

This review will discuss the mechanisms of repair and regeneration in various tissue types and how dysregulation of these mechaisms may lead to cancer. Normal homeostasis involves a careful balance between cell loss and cell renewal. Stem and progenitor cells perform these biologic processes as the functional units of regeneration during both tissue homeostasis and repair. The concept of tissue stem cells capable of giving rise to all differentiated cells within a given tissue led to the concept of a cellulr hierarchy in tissues and in tumors. Thus, only a few cells may be necessary and sufficient for tissue repair or tumor regeneration. This is known as the hierarchical model of tumorigenesis. This report will compare this model with the stochastic model of tumorigenesis. Under normal circumstances, the processes of tissue regeneration or homeostasis are tightly regulated by several morphogen pathways to prevent excessive or inappropriate cell growth. This review presents the recent evidence that dysregulation of these processes may provide opportunities for carcinogenesis for the long-lived, highly proliferative tissue stem cell population. New findings of cancer initiating tissue stem cells identified in several solid and circulating cancers including breast, brain hematopoietic tumors will also be reviewed. Finally, this report reviews the cellular biology of cancer and its relevance to the development of more effective cancer treatment protocols.
PARALLEL TEMPERING FOR THE TRAVELING SALESMAN PROBLEM

We explore the potential of parallel tempering as a combinatorial optimization method, applying it to the traveling salesman problem. We compare simulation results of parallel tempering with a benchmark implementation of simulated annealing, and study how different choices of parameters affect the relative performance of the two methods. We find that a straightforward implementation of parallel tempering can outperform simulated annealing in several crucial respects. When parameters are chosen appropriately, both methods yield close approximation to the actual minimum distance for an instance with 200 nodes. However, parallel tempering yields more consistently accurate results when a series of independent simulations are performed. Our results suggest that parallel tempering might offer a simple but powerful alternative to simulated annealing for combinatorial optimization problems.
Provider perceptions in using outcomes data to improve clinical practice

Abstract In this article we report on the perceptions of health care providers concerning the use of health care outcomes. These perceptions were identified during two afternoon workshops at the symposium on outcomes data held in Keystone, Colorado, in June 1994. The overall goal of these workshops was to explore the potential use of outcomes data within the clinical practice setting. The attitudes and concerns of several key providers formed the framework for the workshop discussions. The strengths and weaknesses associated with using risk-adjusted outcomes data, both to assess and to improve quality of patient care, were debated within the workshop groups. Overall, conference participants agreed that the risk-adjusted outcomes of cardiac care could be used both to assess and to improve the quality of patient care. The research to date, however, represents only a first step toward this goal. The meeting participants challenged the research community to improve on the measures currently available, with the goal of providing clinicians better information to improve the "art" of medicine.
Multiple-quantum magic-angle spinning and dynamic-angle spinning NMR spectroscopy of quadrupolar nuclei

Abstract Several aspects of the Multiple-Quantum Magic-Angle Spinning (MQMAS) technique (L. Frydman and J.S. Harwood, J. Am. Chem. Soc., 117 (1995) 5367) are compared with Dynamic-Angle Spinning (DAS). Examples of MQMAS spectra are shown for I = 3 2 nuclei with C Q up to 3.6 MHz, and for 27 Al ( I = 5 2 ) with C Q up to 10 MHz. The MQMAS linewidth is largely independent of the magnitude of the homonuclear dipolar interaction, while the spinning sideband manifold is similar to that observed in DAS experiments. MQMAS is technically simple and routinely useful for studying nuclei with short spin-lattice relaxation times, but care must be taken in its use for quantitative studies as the excitation of the triple-quantum coherence is not uniform. In this regard, MQMAS is most useful for samples with small quadrupolar coupling constants. In the specific case of 17 O, DAS would give spectra with excellent resolution in comparison to MQMAS. The different advantages of DAS and MQMAS make them useful complementary techniques in many cases. Two additional methods are also presented for extracting the chemical shift anisotropy (CSA) directly for quadrupolar nuclei using the multiple-quantum scheme.
Preserved polyadenylated ribonucleic acid in dormant conidia of Neurospora crassa and new RNA synthesis during spore germination

Abstract Molecular hybridization with cloned cDNAs established that transcripts for specific proteins were present in the RNA of dormant conidiospores of Neurospora crassa. Among these were transcripts for the proteolipid subunit of the mitochondrial ATPase-ATP synthase; a larger proportion of the proteolipid transcripts was present in the nonpolyadenylated rather than the polyadenylated RNA fraction (relative to the pattern of germinated spores). The mRNA encoding the Neurospora Mr 83,000 heat-shock protein was also preserved in the dormant spores; however, the transcript for the Mr 30,000 heat-shock protein was not detectable. The polyadenylated RNA from dormant conidia was translatable in vitro; specific immunoprecipitation and electrophoresis assays showed that this preserved RNA included transcripts for nucleus-encoded subunit peptides of the mitochondrial enzymes cytochrome c oxidase and the ATPase-ATP synthase. As determined by molecular hybridization, conidia began to accumulate RNA for the ATPase proteolipid subunit immediately upon their suspension in incubation medium, with a doubling of the quantity of these specific transcripts by 15 min. Total RNA content of the spores dropped sharply during the first 30 min of germination, but by 45 min the amount of total RNA began to increase. Two inhibitors of RNA synthesis, lomofungin and proflavine-SO4, inhibited spore germination by about 90%, in addition to inhibiting incorporation of [3H]uridine into RNA. This inhibition of spore germination by proflavine-SO4 required that the spores be exposed to the drug during the first 60 min after inoculation into nutrient medium; if the inhibitor was added after 60 min of incubation, the spores germinated with normal kinetics. Dormant conidia, therefore, contain a population of preserved mRNA, but the translation of this preserved mRNA is not sufficient for spore germination; new gene transcription appears to be required for the resumption of protein synthesis and germ tube emergence.
Chemisorption of NO and NH3 on rhenium studied by UPS, XPS, TDS and work function measurements

Abstract Chemisorption of NO and NH3 on clean polycrystalline rhenium have been studied by UV and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS and XPS), thermal desorption spectroscopy (TDS) and work function measurements. NO is dissociatively adsorbed below 0.75 L exposure as characterized by the (N2p + O2p) band and molecularly adsorbed above this exposure as characterized by the 4σ, (5σ + 1π) and 2π bands. The TDS maximum for NO at high exposure is 100°C, while the maximum for nitrogen desorption as a result of NO decomposition varies over the range 450–580°C for different exposures, suggesting second order desorption kinetics. NH3 is molecularly chemisorbed on Re as characterized by correlation of the 3a1 and 1e MO's for free and adsorbed NH3. A photoemission band observed at 9.5 eV below the Fermi level has been ascribed to NH2 or NH species. It is suggested that these are intermediates involved in the rate limiting step of NH3 decomposition on Re because the TDS maximum for nitrogen evolution (215–280°C) is significantly lower than that for nitrogen evolution (600°C) from N2 adsorbed on Re. The electronic structure and bonding properties of chemisorbed NO and NH3 are discussed by means of correlations between the molecular orbitais of the free and chemisorbed species.
Non-spherical bubble collapse mechanics in binary solutions

Abstract Mechanics of bubble collapse in binary mixtures with heat and mass transfer has been investigated in this paper. The flow field surrounding a collapsing bubble undergoing buoyancy-driven motion was solved using adaptive finite-difference method. A curvilinear coordinate system is employed to keep track of the changing bubble shape. The moving boundary feature is considered as an integral part of the governing equations. The bubble collapse rate, velocity, temperature and species concentration field, and simulation of the bubble collapsing process have been reported.
Effects of hot and cold stimulus combinations on the thermal preference of rats.

Abstract Traditional evaluation of pain in animals has primarily used reflexive withdrawal or nocifensive response from singly presented stimulation. However, daily experience of thermal sensation involves situations in which rapid temperature changes from cold to hot can occur. Therefore, in order to better understand integration of competing stimuli and their role in the motivational character of pain perception, behavioral tasks have been adapted to evaluate treatment-driven changes in hindpaws when exposed to two or more stimuli. However, such assessments of craniofacial sensitivity are lacking. In this study, we sought to characterize thermal preference for facial stimulation when rats are given the option of experiencing a hot or cold stimulus to obtain a milk reward, or abstaining from stimulation. We found that when both cold and hot stimuli were either non-noxious or where both stimuli were noxious the hot stimulus was preferred. When the hot stimulus was noxious, non-noxious cold was preferred. Unstimulated time was dependent on the combined aversiveness of the two stimuli, such that unstimulated time was the greatest with a highly aversive stimulus pair (−4 and 48 °C). We also found that pairing stimuli modulated successful task completion for each stimulus, but for nociceptive heat, this was not solely a consequence of thermal preference. Finally, we found that previous preference could both induce and abolish subsequent thermode preference independent of stimulus cues. The findings in this study will allow us to evaluate experimental pain states and analgesic treatments in a manner more relatable to the experience of the patient.
Gluco-oligosaccharide and galacto-oligosaccharide production by Rhodotorula minuta IFO879

Abstract Three strains of yeast, Sterigmatomyces elviae CBS8119, Rhodotorula minuta IFO879 and Sirobasidium magnum CBS6803, which are known to produce galacto-oligosaccharide (Gal-OS) from lactose, were found to process strong transglucosylation abilities and to produce gluco-oligosaccharide (Glc-OS) from cellobiose. Among them, R. minuta IFO 879 was selected as the best producer of Glc-OS. Efficient production conditions for Glc-OS from cellobiose and Gal-OS from lactose were investigated. Using toluene-treated resting cells of R. minuta IFO879, the maximal amounts of Glc-OS produced from 200 mg/ml cellobiose and of Gal-OS produced from 200 mg/ml lactose were 70 mg/ml (a yield by wieght of 35%) and 76 mg/ml (a yield by weight of 38%), respectively. Since the by-product glucose was found to inhibit oligosaccharide production, it was removed from the reaction mixture by devising a suitable culture method such that the enzymatic reaction was accompanied by cell growth to consume the glucose. Under these conditions, the productivities were markedly improved: 201 mg/ml of Glc-OS was produced from 400 mg/ml cellobiose (a yield by weight of 51%) and 230 mg/ml of Gal-OS from 360 mg/ml of lactose (a yield by wieght of 64%). The structures of the major components of Glc-OS and Gal-OS obtained by this method were identified as cellotriose and O -β- d -galactopyranosyl-(1→4)- O -β- d -galactopyranosyl-(1→4)- d -glucopyranose (4′-galactosyl-lactose), respectively.
Thought disorder: A developmental disability in pediatric epilepsy.

This study compared thought disorder (i.e., impaired use of language to formulate and organize thoughts) in 93 children with complex partial seizures (CPSs) and 56 children with primary generalized epilepsy with absence (PGE) and its relationship to age, seizure, cognitive, and linguistic variables. By the use of psychopathology, social competence, academic achievement, and school problem measures, the functional implications of thought disorder in these two groups were compared. When demographic variables were controlled for, there were no significant differences in thought disorder scores between the CPS and PGE groups. However, the profile of age, gender, seizure, and cognitive variables related to thought disorder differed in the CPS and PGE groups. Within each group, different aspects of thought disorder were associated with different seizure variables. Thought disorder was related to psychopathology, school problems, decreased academic achievement, and poor peer interaction in the CPS group, but with school problems in the PGE group. These findings suggest that CPS and PGE affect the normal maturation of children’s discourse skills, albeit through different mechanisms. The relationship of thought disorder to behavioral, academic, and social problems implies that these discourse deficits are one component of the developmental disabilities or comorbidities associated with pediatric CPS and PGE.
Plasmodium falciparum: ATP/ADP transport across the parasitophorous vacuolar and plasma membranes.

Abstract Previous studies have shown that ATP is required for the growth of the intracellular parasite, Plasmidium, outside its host cell, the erythrocyte, and that bongkrekic acid, an inhibitor of mitochondrial ATP/ADP transporter, inhibits intraerythrocytic Plasmodium maturation. We have characterized ATP/ADP transport of Plasmodium falciparum, isolated by either immune lysis or N2-cavitation. [3H]ATP uptake was due to ATP/ADP exchange since ADP efflux was dependent on exogenous ATP in an approximate 1:1 stoichiometry and both ATP influx and ADP efflux were equally inhibited by atractyloside (Ki = 100 nM). ATP uptake was not inhibited by the nucleoside transport inhibitor, nitrobenzylthioinosine. Conversely, adenosine and hypoxanthine transport were insensitive to atractyloside. ATP influx was characterized by a Km = 0.14 mM and Vmax = 1.2 nmol ATP/min/106 cells. Substrate specificity studies for nucleotide-induced ADP efflux indicated a preference for an adenosine ring and triphosphate, but transport did not require a hydrolyzable phosphate bond. Protein synthesis was measured with free parasites starved of glucose. Addition of 1.0 mM ATP resulted in a 40% recovery of total protein synthetic capacity in a process inhibited by 500 nM atractyloside, suggesting that uptake of erythrocyte-derived ATP by P. falciparum may be essential for maintaining maximal rates of protein synthesis during specific stages of intra-erythrocytic parasite maturation.
Verbal memory errors in Alzheimer's and Huntington's dementias

This study examined the nature and extent of verbal recall and recognition errors in patients with probable Alzheimer's disease (PAD) and Huntington's disease (HD). The California Verbal Learning Test was administered to PAD patients, mildly demented HD patients, moderately to severely demented HD (MS‐HD) patients, and normal controls. PAD patients had a significantly higher rate of intrusions on recall tests than any other group. PAD patients also showed a more rapid increase in intrusions on delayed free‐recall and cued‐recall trials. On recognition testing, however, PAD and MS‐HD patients were equally impaired at discriminating between targets and distractors. Results indicate that impaired discrimination contributes to the memory failures of both dementias, but that PAD patients are more likely than HD patients to manifest their dysfunction as intrusion errors on recall trials. Possible explanations for this discrepancy are discussed.
Shear-induced failure in jammed nanoparticle assemblies

The state of stress during the bottom-up assembly of nanoparticles strongly correlates with the microstructure of dense nanoparticle aggregates therein. A range of interaction length scales exists in these dry granular systems spanning from particle-scale elastic repulsion to aggregate van der Waals cohesion; the competition among these interactions dominates athermal microstructural evolution under applied stress. In this work, structural optimization is employed to simulate the nano-mechanical physics of athermal densification and jamming. The translational and rotational motions of nanoparticles are optimized to static equilibrium. An initially sparse and random configuration of particles is compacted into a mechanically stable (i.e., jammed) state by densifying the system under various external-loading paths (e.g., hydrostatic, uniaxial, and shear). The resultant jammed structures and their responses to shear exhibit strong correlation with the strength of interactions in addition to particle shape [see Smith et al., Phys. Rev. E, 82, 051304 (2011)]. The structural information, such as particleparticle contact types and pore geometry of the heterogeneous media in these densified systems will aid in understanding energy transport for functional applications such as thermoelectric elements and battery electrodes.
Structural features of Ag[AuF4] and Ag[AuF6] and the stuctural relationship of Ag[AgF4]2 and Au[AuF4]2 to Ag[AuF4]2.

Synchrotron radiation X-ray powder diffraction data (SPDD) have been obtained for Ag[AgF4]2, Au[AuF4]2, Ag[AuF4], and Ag[AuF6]. Ag[AgF4]2 and Au[AuF4]2 are isostructural with Ag[AuF4]2, space group (SG) P21/n, Z = 2, with the following: for Ag[AgF4]2 a = 5.04664(8), b = 11.0542(2), c = 5.44914(9) A, β = 97.170(2)°; for Au[AuF4]2 a = 5.203(2), b = 11.186(3), c = 5.531(2) A, β = 90.55(2)°. The structure of Ag[AgF4]2 was refined successfully (SPDD) applying the Rietveld method, yielding the following interatomic distances (A): AgII−F = 2.056(12), 2.200(13), 2.558(13); AgIII−F = two at 1.846(12), others = 1.887(12), 1.909(13), 2.786(12), 2.796(12), 2.855(12). AgAuF4, like other AA‘F4 salts (A = Na−Rb; A‘ = Ag, Au), crystallizes in the KBrF4 structure type, SG I4/mcm (140), Z = 4 with a = 5.79109(6), c = 10.81676(7) A. SPDD gave (in A) four AuIII−F = 1.89(1) and eight AgI−F = 2.577(7). SPDD for AgAuF6 confirmed that it has the LiSbF6 structure, SG R3, Z = 3, with a = 5.2840(2), c = 15.0451(6) A.
Is a Questionnaire Necessary in a Second Mailing

MAILED questionnaire research has shown the effectiveness of a reminder (e.g. Lindsey, 1921; Scott, 1961; Linsky, 1975; Dillman, 1978; Heberlein and Baumgartner, 1978) on responses, but it is not clear whether including a replacement questionnaire along with the reminder letter enhances effectiveness. If there is no difference in response to reminders with and without a second copy of the instrument, then practitioners can save postage by not including a second instrument and a postage-paid return envelope. If there are increases in response, it would be useful to document their magnitude so that the investigator can decide if the increase was worth the extra cost. At a more theoretical level we have argued elsewhere (Heberlein and Baumgartner, 1978) that lowering respondent perception of costs and increasing the perceived importance of returning the questionnaire is the mechanism by which effective procedures such as repeat mailings and certified mail increase responses. The inclusion of a second questionnaire mainly lowers the cost variable. A potential
Ventricular fibrillation is not provoked by chest compression during post-shock organized rhythms in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

Abstract Introduction: It has been proposed that chest compression (CC) can provoke recurrent ventricular fibrillation (VF) after defibrillation has restored an organized rhythm (OR). If so this would have major implications for proposed changes in resumption of CC after defibrillation, regardless of rhythm. The aim of this study was to examine our defibrillation data for evidence of post-shock CC-induced VF. Methods: In a defibrillation program using police/fire personnel entire electrocardiograms (ECGs) from defibrillator data cards were examined for initial and post-shock rhythms and CC artifact. Successful shock rhythms were defined as either asystole or OR in the first five seconds post-shock, the latter as at least two QRS complexes during this time period. Artifact from CC was assessed for association with recurrent VF during either asystole or OR. Results: Among 67 patients (pts) defibrillated by police/fire personnel VF recurred at least once in 35 (52%). Entire ECGs were available in 32 of these 35 pts. Chest compression-associated recurrent VF developed in 16 of 32 patients (50%). A total of 78 VF recurrences were observed during the period prior to administration of epinephrine (adrenaline) or other drugs. During post-shock asystole VF recurred 32 times (41% of all recurrent VF episodes); in 19 (59%) VF recurred during CC and in 13 (41%) it was spontaneous. During OR VF recurred 46 times (59% of all recurrent VF episodes); in 36 (78%) VF recurred spontaneously and in only 10 (22%) during CC. Heart rate preceding spontaneous recurrence of VF during OR was 84 ± 35 beats/min, and heart rate preceding CC-associated VF recurrence during OR was 46 ± 20 beats/min (p > 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the width of the QRS complex preceding VF recurrence in the CC-associated and spontaneous VF recurrence groups (p = 0.925). Conclusions: VF recurred following successful shocks in 52% of pts. With asystole VF recurred frequently during CC. However, during post-shock OR VF recurred unrelated to CC in most instances. Thus, resumption of CC immediately after shocks that restore an OR is unlikely to provoke recurrent VF, and resumption of CC need not be delayed.
Multilayers in a modulated stochastic game

We are concerned with an antagonistic stochastic game between two players A and B which finds applications in economics and warfare. The actions of the players are manifested by a series of strikes of random magnitudes at random times exerted by each player against his opponent. Each of the assaults inflicts a random damage to enemy's vital areas. In contrast with traditional games, in our setting, each player can endure multiple strikes before perishing. Predicting the ruin time (exit) of player A, along with the total amount of casualties to both players at the exit is a main objective of this work. In contrast to the time sensitive analysis (earlier developed to refine the information on the game) we insert auxiliary control levels, which both players will cross in due game before the ruin of A. This gives A (and also B) an additional opportunity to reevaluate his strategy and change the course of the game. We formalize such a game and also allow the real time information about the game to be randomly delayed. The delayed exit time, cumulative casualties to both players, and prior crossings are all obtained in a closed-form joint functional.
Rapid Bottom Melting Widespread near Antarctic Ice Sheet Grounding Lines

As continental ice from Antarctica reaches the grounding line and begins to float, its underside melts into the ocean. Results obtained with satellite radar interferometry reveal that bottom melt rates experienced by large outlet glaciers near their grounding lines are far higher than generally assumed. The melting rate is positively correlated with thermal forcing, increasing by 1 meter per year for each 0.1°C rise in ocean temperature. Where deep water has direct access to grounding lines, glaciers and ice shelves are vulnerable to ongoing increases in ocean temperature.
Corrosion/fragmentation of layered composite cathode and related capacity/voltage fading during cycling process.

The Li-rich, Mn-rich (LMR) layered structure materials exhibit very high discharge capacities exceeding 250 mAh g–1 and are very promising cathodes to be used in lithium ion batteries. However, significant barriers, such as voltage fade and low rate capability, still need to be overcome before the practical applications of these materials. A detailed study of the voltage/capacity fading mechanism will be beneficial for further tailoring the electrode structure and thus improving the electrochemical performances of these layered cathodes. Here, we report detailed studies of structural changes of LMR layered cathode Li[Li0.2Ni0.2Mn0.6]O2 after long-term cycling by aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). The fundamental findings provide new insights into capacity/voltage fading mechanism of Li[Li0.2Ni0.2Mn0.6]O2. Sponge-like structure and fragmented pieces were found on the surface of cathode after extended cycling. Formation of Mn2+...
THE NEW CONTINGENT WORKFORCE: EXAMINING THE BRIDGE EMPLOYMENT OPTIONS OF MATURE WORKERS

The dual forces of an increasing dependency ratio and lower labor market participation on the part of mature individuals does not bode well for the American and European Communities. To begin to better understand such macro influences, changing demographic trends in the U.S. and European community with regard to the aging population and workforce participation are reviewed. In addition, recent research which continues to dispel the myth of a negative relationship between age and job performance is reviewed. A more informative way of looking at possible relationships between age and job performance is presented. A variety of contingent work arrangements and flexible employment policies are reviewed as a potential solution to the decreased supply of skilled labor for employers and the need for continued income and community involvement on the part of mature individuals. In addition, a call for a redefinition of how we currently view retirement is sounded. We conclude with recommendations for both employers and mature individuals on dealing with the issues presented.
Insulin-modulated transport of RNA from isolated liver nuclei

Abstract The addition of 3 × 10 −7 m insulin to a cell-free RNA transport system caused an increase of 50% in the release of messenger-like RNA from 30-min prelabeled rat liver nuclei. Insulin concentrations above 1.2 × 10 −6 m inhibited RNA release. These hormonal effects were not observed when nuclei were prepared from the insulin-resistant Zucker rat (fa/fa), while the level of stimulation in the heterozygote was approximately one-half that observed with normal liver nuclei. Nuclei prelabeled for 120 min and releasing predominantly ribosomal RNA also did not respond to insulin added to the cell-free system. The hormone appears to affect primarily mRNA transport rather than processing.
CT and hemifacial spasm.

Forty-six patients with typical hemifacial spasm had CT. Thirty-eight (83%) were abnormal, including two with surgically documented tumors. Thirty-six had a characteristic dolichoectatic vertebrobasilar artery, with the convexity pointing to the side of the spasm in 92% of the scans. This study suggests that CT is a worthwhile procedure in the evaluation of hemifacial spasm and that dolichoectatic vertebrobasilar arteries are very frequently associated with hemifacial spasm.
Long-term safety and efficacy of tanezumab as treatment for chronic low back pain (NCT00924664)

This randomized, parallel-group, multicenter study evaluated long-term safety and efficacy of tanezumab in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). Patients from the parent study (NCT00876187) were eligible for this safety extension study within 12 weeks after last dose of parent study medication or upon discontinuation due to lack of efficacy. Patients received 3 intravenous then 4 subcutaneous administrations of tanezumab 10mg (n=321) or 20mg (n=527) at 8-week intervals. Safety assessments included adverse event documentation, physical and neurological examinations, and laboratory tests. Efficacy analyses included change from parent study Baseline in Brief Pain Inventory-short form, Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire, and Patient’s Global Assessment of CLBP. The study discontinued prematurely due to an FDA-imposed clinical hold. Mean extension study treatment durationwas 194 and 202 days for tanezumab 10 and 20mg, respectively. The most frequently reported treatment-related adverse events were paresthesia, arthralgia, and hypoesthesia. Osteonecrosis was reported in 6 patients (tanezumab 10mg: n=2 [0.6%]; tanezumab 20mg: n=4 [0.8%]); 9 additional patients (tanezumab 10mg: n=7 [2.2%]; tanezumab 20mg: n=2 [0.4%]) underwent total joint replacement (TJR). Of these, all 6 patients with reported osteonecrosis and 4/9 undergoing TJR were evaluated by a blinded expert Adjudication Committee. Adjudication outcomes were: osteonecrosis (n=0); worsening osteoarthritis (OA; n=5); another diagnosis or indeterminate (n=5). Of the 5 patients adjudicated to worsening OA, 2 were adjudicated to normal progression, 1 was adjudicated to rapid progression of OA and in 2 patients the rate of OA progression was indeterminable. Improvements in efficacy observed in the parent study (at Week 16) weremaintained throughWeek 32 in this study. Both tanezumab doses significantly improved all efficacy outcomes from parent study Baseline to Week 32 in this extension study. In conclusion, long-term tanezumab was generally safe and provided durable efficacy in patients with CLBP. Supported by Pfizer, Inc.
Enhancing visual thinking and learning with computer graphics and virtual environment design

Abstract Prior to language development, all proto-human had was his senses and a significantly evolving brain [Bolles (1991) A Second Way of Knowing , Prentice Hall, New York]. Since we understand now how critically important language is to thinking, how could proto-human “think” in the absence of language as we know it? One answer is that proto-human depended upon visual learning as a primordial form of cognition, what we call today, “a second way of learning” with verbal learning presumably serving as the first learning system. The modern age has permitted visual learning to take a back-seat to verbal learning, however the capabilities of emerging digital visual technologies may help us recapture and extend our visual thinking and learning capabilities. This paper attempts to scratch the surface with regard to the visual thinking and learning potential afforded by the recent evolution in some computer graphics technologies. A general discussion of the scope and definition of visual thinking and learning is integrated with examples of both current research strategies and current and proposed teaching strategies. Our main focus has been on applications within a visually based art curriculum although computer graphics spans several discipline areas and, in most cases, includes some form of cooperative environment and development. Hence, it is hoped that the information contained here may have some useful applications to curriculum design in other discipline areas such as computer science, communication, mathematics and physics, just to name a few.
Analysis of mean square penetration depth in grain boundary diffusion

Exact and approximate expressions for mean square penetration depth (MSPD) in grain boundary diffusion are derived. The MSPDs in boundary diffusion are functionally different from those in lattice diffusion. The quantitative results obtained provide more reliable estimates for the penetration depth of a diffusant in polycrystalline materials, thin films, and bicrystals.
Stability of Aspirin in Solid Mixtures

It has been shown that the degradation of aspirin in mixtures may be monitored by thermal analytical techniques. The methodology employed differential scanning calorimetry and thermal gravimetric analysis by standard techniques providing simple and rapid analysis for screening the stability of aspirin in mixtures. The degradation was found to depend on the nature of the additive but, in particular, the presence of acidic or basic groups within its structure.
DSA evaluation of the STA-MCA bypass.

Continuing improvements in intravenous DSA techniques have now shown it to be useful in the angiographic evaluation of STA-MCA bypass function. Both patent and non-patent bypasses were observed in this study. Diagnostically adequate spatial resolution and signal to noise ratio were achieved by electronic magnification and integration techniques. Patient positioning was important and the projection which gave optimal visualization of the STA-MCA bypass, free of vessel overlap, was a 40° oblique, 20° craniocaudal view on the side of interest. Intravenous DSA can complement, and in some cases may supplant, conventional arteriography in the radiologic evaluation of STA-MCA bypass surgery.
The evolution of novel fungal genes from non-retroviral RNA viruses

Endogenous derivatives of non-retroviral RNA viruses are thought to be absent or rare in eukaryotic genomes because integration of RNA viruses in host genomes is impossible without reverse transcription. However, such derivatives have been proposed for animals, plants and fungi, often based on surrogate bioinformatic evidence. At present, there is little known of the evolution and function of integrated non-retroviral RNA virus genes. Here, we provide direct evidence of integration by sequencing across host-virus gene boundaries and carry out phylogenetic analyses of fungal hosts and totivirids (dsRNA viruses of fungi and protozoans). Further, we examine functionality by tests of neutral evolution, comparison of residues that are necessary for viral capsid functioning and assays for transcripts, dsRNA and viral particles. Sequencing evidence from gene boundaries was consistent with integration. We detected previously unknown integrated Totivirus-like sequences in three fungi (Candida parapsilosis, Penicillium marneffei and Uromyces appendiculatus). The phylogenetic evidence strongly indicated that the direction of transfer was from Totivirus to fungus. However, there was evidence of transfer of Totivirus-like sequences among fungi. Tests of selection indicated that integrated genes are maintained by purifying selection. Transcripts were apparent for some gene copies, but, in most cases, the endogenous sequences lacked the residues necessary for normal viral functioning. Our findings reveal that horizontal gene transfer can result in novel gene formation in eukaryotes despite miniaturized genomic targets and a need for co-option of reverse transcriptase.
Desaromatisierungsstrategien in der Synthese strukturell komplexer Naturstoffe

Auf dem Gebiet der Totalsynthese von Naturstoffen hat es in den vergangenen zehn Jahren hochinteressante Entwicklungen gegeben. Zahlreiche chemoselektive und enantioselektive Methoden sind aus Totalsynthesen hervorgegangen und ermoglichten einen effizienten Zugang zu vielen wichtigen Naturstoffen. Dieser Aufsatz gibt einen Uberblick uber neuere Entwicklungen bezuglich der Desaromatisierung, die eine leistungsfahige Strategie zur Totalsynthese von strukturell komplexen Naturstoffen ist und bei der planare aromatische Vorstufen in dreidimensionale Molekulstrukturen umgewandelt werden.
Word-Learning Abilities in Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Preschoolers: Effect of Lexicon Size and Language Modality

Deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) children's ability to rapidly learn novel words through direct reference and through novel mapping (i.e., inferring that a novel word refers to a novel object) was examined. Ninety-eight DHH children, ranging from 27 to 82 months old, drawn from 12 schools in five states participated. In two tasks that differed in how reference was established, word-learning abilities were measured by children's ability to learn novel words after only three exposures. Three levels of word-learning abilities were identified. Twelve children did not rapidly learn novel words. Thirty-six children learned novel words rapidly but only in the direct reference task. Forty-nine children learned novel words rapidly in both direct reference and novel mapping tasks. These levels of word-learning abilities were evident in children who were in oral-only and in signing environments, in children with cochlear implants, and in deaf children of deaf parents. Children's word-learning abilities were more strongly correlated to lexicon size than age, and this relation was similar for children in these different language-learning environments. Acquisition of these word-learning abilities seems based on linguistic mechanisms that are available to children in a wide range of linguistic environments. In addition, the word-learning tasks offer a promising dynamic assessment tool.