cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Efficient Diffuse Basis Sets: cc-pVxZ+ and maug-cc-pVxZ.

We combine the diffuse basis functions from the 6-31+G basis set of Pople and co-workers with the correlation-consistent basis sets of Dunning and co-workers. In both wave function and density functional calculations, the resulting basis sets reduce the basis set superposition error almost as much as the augmented correlation-consistent basis sets, although they are much smaller. In addition, in density functional calculations the new basis sets, called cc-pVxZ+ where x = D, T, Q, ..., or x = D+d, T+d, Q+d, ..., give very similar energetic predictions to the much larger aug-cc-pVxZ basis sets. However, energetics calculated from correlated wave function calculations are more slowly convergent with respect to the addition of diffuse functions. We also examined basis sets with the same number and type of functions as the cc-pVxZ+ sets but using the diffuse exponents of the aug-cc-pVxZ basis sets and found very similar performance to cc-pVxZ+; these basis sets are called minimally augmented cc-pVxZ, which we abbreviate as maug-cc-pVxZ.
Type A Francisella tularensis Acid Phosphatases Contribute to Pathogenesis

Different Francisella spp. produce five or six predicted acid phosphatases (AcpA, AcpB, AcpC, AcpD, HapA and HapB). The genes encoding the histidine acid phosphatases (hapA, hapB) and acpD of F. tularensis subsp. Schu S4 strain are truncated or disrupted. However, deletion of HapA (FTT1064) in F. tularensis Schu S4 resulted in a 33% reduction in acid phosphatase activity and loss of the four functional acid phosphatases in F. tularensis Schu S4 (ΔABCH) resulted in a>99% reduction in acid phosphatase activity compared to the wild type strain. All single, double and triple mutants tested, demonstrated a moderate decrease in mouse virulence and survival and growth within human and murine phagocytes, whereas the ΔABCH mutant showed >3.5-fold decrease in intramacrophage survival and 100% attenuation of virulence in mouse. While the Schu S4 ΔABCH strain was attenuated in the mouse model, it showed only limited protection against wild type challenge. F. tularensis Schu S4 failed to stimulate reactive oxygen species production in phagocytes, whereas infection by the ΔABCH strain stimulated 5- and 56-fold increase in reactive oxygen species production in neutrophils and human monocyte-derived macrophages, respectively. The ΔABCH mutant but not the wild type strain strongly co-localized with p47phox and replicated in macrophages isolated from p47phox knockout mice. Thus, F. tularensis Schu S4 acid phosphatases, including the truncated HapA, play a major role in intramacrophage survival and virulence of this human pathogen.
Numerical modelling of coupled surface and subsurface flow systems

Abstract This paper presents and compares several numerical solutions of the coupled system of Navier–Stokes and Darcy equations. The schemes are based on combinations of the finite element method and the discontinuous Galerkin method. Accuracy and robustness of the methods are investigated for heterogeneous porous media. The importance of local mass conservation for filtration problems is also discussed.
Predictors of student satisfaction in distance-delivered graduate nursing courses: what matters most?

Abstract This article describes a study designed to investigate graduate nursing students’ satisfaction with a course taught via interactive video teleconferencing (IVT) and the World Wide Web/Internet (WWW/INT). A correlational research design examined the relationships among 5 learner attributes and 3 instructional variables and student satisfaction. Regression analyses identified learner attributes and instructional variables predictive of student satisfaction. Forty-three graduate nurse students were surveyed using a 59-item Student Satisfaction Survey (SSS). Learner attribute predictors included: (1) previous technology courses, (2) technology competence, (3) between-class technology usage, (4) age, and (5) remote-site group size. Instructional predictors were clustered into 3 dimensions: instructor/instruction, technology, and course management. Student satisfaction was a composite of overall satisfaction with the course and comparison with conventional classroom courses. Instructor/instruction explained 21 percent of the variance in course satisfaction scores. Overall instructor rating strongly correlated with satisfaction. The most potent finding was that good pedagogy is important to students’ perceived satisfaction with distance education. Students acclimate to the instructional reality—traditional, campus-based face-to-face instruction, or technology-mediated distance education—and once accustomed, it is the quality and effectiveness of instructor and instruction, not the technology, that is associated with satisfaction. The findings of this study provide essential information to faculty responsible for the design and delivery of effective instruction and to students pursuing flexible and convenient options for advanced education.
Absorption, metabolism, and excretion studies of carbon 14- and tritium-labeled derivatives of a ketomethylene containing tripeptide

Tritium and Carbon 14 analogs of the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor ketoACE were synthesized and their oral absorption, metabolism and excretion in rats were investigated. KetoACE, a ketomethylene analog of the tripeptide Bz-Phe-Gly-Pro, was slowly absorbed at a 35% level upon oral administration. It is rapidly eliminated from the blood with a half-life of about 10 minutes. Its excretion is primarily via the bile duct and it is excreted as 80% unchanged drug. The only identified metabolite consisting of 5-10% of the excreted radioactivity was determined to be the reduced ketoACE in which the ketone group was reduced to a hydroxyl.
Analysis of competition binding between soluble and membrane-bound ligands for cell surface receptors.

Binding of the Fc portion of IgG coated on targets to Fcgamma receptors (e.g., CD16) expressed on leukocytes (i.e., 2D binding) is an initiating step for immune responses such as phagocytosis or antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. In vivo, circulating leukocytes are exposed to plasma IgG. The competition from soluble IgG (i.e., 3D binding) may affect the 2D binding. Many cell surface receptors, CD16 included, have soluble counterparts. While their physiological significance is not clear, receptor-based competitive inhibition therapy, in which soluble receptors, ligands, and their analogs are employed to compete with surface-bound receptors and ligands to prevent unwanted adhesion, is widely used to treat various diseases. To provide a quantitative basis for design of these therapeutic approaches, we developed a mathematical model for 2D and 3D competition binding. The model relates cell-surface adhesion (in the presence and absence of dislodging forces) to the concentration of the soluble competitor, the densities of the surface-bound receptors and ligands, as well as the binding affinities of the 2D and 3D interactions. Binding of CD16-expressing cells to an IgG-coated surface in the presence of a soluble competitor (IgG or anti-CD16 antibody) was quantified by a centrifugation assay. The agreement between experiment and theory supports the validity of the model, which could be useful in predicting the efficacy of the competitor.
Signal transduction in wound pharmacology

Growth factors such as TGF-beta, PDGF and FGF are thought to play important roles in wound healing. However, their biological activity and signal transduction during wound repair remain poorly understood. Growth factors are often ligands for receptor tyrosine kinase and receptor serine/threonine kinases. With recent advances in signal transduction by receptor kinases, we are beginning to understand the underlying mechanism of how growth factors may regulate cutaneous wound repair. In this paper, we will describe the pharmacological effects of growth factors on wound healing, and discuss the potential underlying signaling mechanisms. Thus, we hope to provide the basis for designing more specific therapeutics for wound healing in the near future.
Contribution of different lateral geniculate cell types to visual behavior.

Abstract The responses of primate lateral geniculate cells were studied in several experiments in which the stimulus situation was similar to that in various classical psychophysical discrimination experiments. Of interest were the role played by various cell type, and the extent to which the sub-cortical interactions can quantitatively account for various aspects of vision. 1. Different cell types . Evidence was presented for the existence of six different cell types, two spectrally non-opponent and four spectrally opponent. Evidence for the way in which the three cone types feed into the six LGN cell types was presented. 2. Presence of color discrimination . The non-opponent cells were shown to be “colorblind”, showing to change in firing with a shift from an achromatic to an equal-luminance monochromatic light. Opponent cells all make such discriminations, and in each case are dichromatic. 3. Brightness discrimination . All six cell types respond to increments and decrements of achromatic light, but the non-opponent cells are the most responsive. 4. Wavelength discrimination . The RG opponent cells discriminate wavelengths best around 600 nm, and the YB cells best around 500 nm, thus accounting for the double-minimum behavioral wavelength discrimination curve. 5. Saturation discrimination . Each opponent cell discriminates purity difference in certain spectral regions. The + R − G and + B − y cells are the most sensitive and the + Y − B least, thus accounting for the desaturation of the spectrum around 570 nm. 6. Simultaneous contrast and contours . Border enhancement is seen to luminance but not to pure color borders. The simultaneous contrast found in LGN cells extends only over very short distances, and thus cannot account for all perceptual contrast effects.
The Spinocerebellar Ataxias

The definition of ataxia is loss of coordination, particularly of gait. Thus, when a clinician diagnoses someone with ataxia, it typically is someone with gait imbalance associated with limb incoordination including problems with gross and fine motor control. Ataxia in adults can be an acquired or genetic disorder. The timing of disease and the family history are key elements in distinguishing acquired from probable genetic causes. A genetic form of ataxia is suggested by insidious onset, slow and inexorable progression, and generally symmetrical findings on exam. A positive family history of ataxia or gait imbalance in a patient’s father or mother strongly suggests a dominantly-inherited disorder. (1) (2) (3) In most individuals presenting with heritable degenerative ataxias, symptoms begin with gait imbalance followed by appendicular ataxia. Soon afterward, dysarthria usually begins and visual problems can occur. These may include difficulty with focusing (especially in a moving environment), diplopia, and problems with rapid eye movements (saccades). Eye movement abnormalities that are noncerebellar can include gaze palsies, slowed saccades, ocular “stare”, blepharospasm, and ptosis. Classic cerebellar findings include dysmetria and intention tremor on finger to nose testing, rebound phenomena, widened stance and difficulty with gait, particularly when turning. For some patients early in disease, gait imbalance may only be elicited by testing tandem walk (or, as patients often call it, the “drunk driving test”).
Anthony E. Siegman: Laser pioneer, Optical Society president, friend, and colleague

The death of Anthony E. (Tony) Siegman on October 7, 2011, was a profound shock to the worldwide optical science and laser community. An esteemed scientist and educator, Tony was also a kind and gentle man.
‘Knowledge management’: a case study of the World Bank's research department

This article looks at ‘knowledge management’, using a case study of the World Bank's research department, located in the Bank's Development Economics Vice-Presidency (DEC). Despite the Bank's presentation of its research arm as conducting ‘rigorous and objective’ work, the author finds that the Bank's ‘knowledge management’ involves research that has tended to reinforce the dominant neo-liberal globalisation policy agenda. The article examines some of the mechanisms by which the Bank's research department comes to play a central role in what Robert Wade has termed ‘paradigm maintenance’, including incentives in hiring, promotion, and publishing, as well as selective enforcement of rules, discouragement of dissonant views, and manipulation of data. The author's analysis is based both on in-depth interviews with current and former World Bank professionals and on examination of the relevant literature.
Environmental governance: the emerging economic dimension

Abstract Much has been made of the environmental dark side of China's economic boom. Public health challenges, large-scale migration and diminishing economic opportunities are all costs incurred by China from the country's failure to integrate environmental protection and economic development successfully. Now China's leaders are attempting to use the country's transition to a market economy and integration into the global economy to help protect the environment, advancing policies such as green gross domestic product, tradable permits, environmental leadership by multinationals and national environmental model cities. The success of these policies, however, rests on a broader and more fundamental set of institutional reforms that would promote transparency, rule of law and official accountability, and thus remains in question.
Nitrite Reductase Activity of Cytochrome c

Small increases in physiological nitrite concentrations have now been shown to mediate a number of biological responses, including hypoxic vasodilation, cytoprotection after ischemia/reperfusion, and regulation of gene and protein expression. Thus, while nitrite was until recently believed to be biologically inert, it is now recognized as a potentially important hypoxic signaling molecule and therapeutic agent. Nitrite mediates signaling through its reduction to nitric oxide, via reactions with several heme-containing proteins. In this report, we show for the first time that the mitochondrial electron carrier cytochrome c can also effectively reduce nitrite to NO. This nitrite reductase activity is highly regulated as it is dependent on pentacoordination of the heme iron in the protein and occurs under anoxic and acidic conditions. Further, we demonstrate that in the presence of nitrite, pentacoordinate cytochrome c generates bioavailable NO that is able to inhibit mitochondrial respiration. These data suggest an additional role for cytochrome c as a nitrite reductase that may play an important role in regulating mitochondrial function and contributing to hypoxic, redox, and apoptotic signaling within the cell.
ICAM gene cluster SNPs and prostate cancer risk in African Americans

Intercellular adhesion molecules (ICAMs) are known to be involved in various human cancers. An ICAM gene cluster lying within a 26 kb region on chromosome 19p13.2, and containing ICAM1, ICAM4, and ICAM5 has recently been identified as harboring a breast and prostate cancer susceptibility locus in two populations of European ancestry from Germany and Australia. The objective of this study was to confirm the ICAM association with prostate cancer in a sample of African American prostate cancer cases (N = 286) and controls (N = 391). Six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the three ICAM genes were genotyped. To control for potential population stratification an ancestry-adjusted association analysis was performed. We found that ICAM1 SNPs, −9A/C (rs5490) and K469E (rs5498) were associated with prostate cancer risk in men with a family history of prostate cancer (P = 0.008). Specifically, increased risk was observed for individuals who possessed the CC genotype of the −9 A/C variant (odds ratio = 2.5; 95% CI = 1.0–6.3) and at least one G allele of non-synonymous K469E variant (odds ratio = 1.8; 95% CI = 1.2–3.1). Strong linkage disequilibrium was observed across the ICAM region (P < 0.001). A common haplotype within the ICAM gene cluster, harboring the −9A/C variant was significantly associated with prostate cancer (P = 0.03), mainly due to men with family history (P = 0.01). Our results replicate previous findings of association of the ICAM gene cluster with prostate cancer and suggest that common genetic variation within ICAM1 and not ICAM5 may be an important risk factor for prostate cancer.
Split Application of Urea Does Not Decrease and May Increase Nitrous Oxide Emissions in Rainfed Corn

Published in Agron. J. 107:337–348 (2015) doi:10.2134/agronj14.0411 Available freely online through the author-supported open access option. Copyright © 2015 by the American Society of Agronomy, 5585 Guilford Road, Madison, WI 53711. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. ABStRACt
Experiments on Heat Exchanger Solidity for Coal-Fired Fluidized Bed Applications

The efficient extraction of a high-temperature working fluid from a coal-fired fluidized bed combustor depends, to a great extent, on the design of the immersed heat exchanger. Of special importance is the solidity of the cooling tubes immersed in the bed. The interaction between increasing solidity and the consequent degradation of proper fluidization and circulation is being studied at the New York University fluidized bed combustion facility. In a preliminary set of experiments it was found that under certain conditions, the solidity of heat exchanger in the bed may be significantly increased, giving designers an additional variable parameter.
A microfabricated, flow driven mill for the mechanical lysis of algae

This paper reports a novel, new means of mechanically lysing algae using a microfabricated, flow-driven grinding mill. The mill is demonstrated to be effective in the mechanical lysis of the dinoflagellate genus Alexandrium, a neurotoxin producing algae, responsible for Red Tide and paralytic shellfish poisoning. Pre and post milling cell counts revealed lysing efficiencies as high as 96%. Selective amplification of lysate samples was successfully performed, using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and primers specific to Alexandrium, demonstrating that the released DNA is suitable for downstream analysis.
Autocrine Expression and Ontogenetic Functions of the PACAP Ligand/Receptor System during Sympathetic Development

Abstract The superior cervical ganglion (SCG) is a well-characterized model of neural development, in which several regulatory signals have been identified. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) has been found to regulate diverse ontogenetic processes in sympathetics, though functional requirements for high peptide concentrations suggest that other ligands are involved. We now describe expression and functions of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) during SCG ontogeny, suggesting that the peptide plays critical roles in neurogenesis. PACAP and PACAP receptor (PAC1) mRNA's were detected at embryonic days 14.5 (E14.5) through E17.5 in vivo and virtually all precursors exhibited ligand and receptor, indicating that the system is expressed as neuroblasts proliferate. Exposure of cultured precursors to PACAP peptides, containing 27 or 38 residues, increased mitogenic activity 4-fold. Significantly, PACAP was 1000-fold more potent than VIP and a highly potent and selective antagonist entirely blocked effects of micromolar VIP, consistent with both peptides acting via PAC1 receptors. Moreover, PACAP potently enhanced precursor survival more than 2-fold, suggesting that previously defined VIP effects were mediated via PAC1 receptors and that PACAP is the more significant developmental signal. In addition to neurogenesis, PACAP promoted neuronal differentiation, increasing neurite outgrowth 4-fold and enhancing expression of neurotrophin receptors trkC and trkA. Since PACAP potently activated cAMP and PI pathways and increased intracellular Ca2+, the peptide may interact with other developmental signals. PACAP stimulation of precursor mitosis, survival, and trk receptor expression suggests that the signaling system plays a critical autocrine role during sympathetic neurogenesis.
Fine structural study of gas secretion in the physoclistous swim bladder of Fundulus heteroclitus and Gadus callarias and in the euphysoclistous swim bladder of Opsanus tau.

The Haldane-Koch-Scholander-Kuhn-Steen theory of salting out countercurrent multiplication effect of the rete mirabile now accounts for release of most gases in the fish swim bladder. Evidence presented here indicates that final release is by microbubbles from the secretory epithelium. There is only one specific cell type in a highly vascularized epithelium. It is characterized by complex folds in the paravascular zone and by “gas” forming bodies which seem to form from plentiful Golgi material. The bodies are formed with dark amorphous matrix that becomes patterned (tubular or lamellar), finally froths and then is released to the gas surface. Residual material may form myelin-like layers on the lumenal surface. Active cells are also characterized by surface villi and subsurface, parallel cisternal spaces. Gas may be formed by cells not touching the gas surface and released through intercellular spaces. There are discontinuous desmosomes (maculae adhaerentes) near the gas surface and there are no tight junctions (zonulae occludentes). Gas release as bubbles would explain Wittenbergs observations that the gases found in swim bladders have ratios more closely related to their solubility coefficients in water than to ambient partial pressures. A surfactant may be present to lower the surface tension of the microbubbles. The carrier in the cytoplasm would have to be an iron-protein (or perhaps peroxidase) compound capable of binding molecular oxygen.
The New Ecology of Vacancy: Rethinking Land Use in Shrinking Cities

Urban environments are in continual transition. Yet, as many cities continue to grow and develop in ways deemed typical or standard, these transitions can be difficult to acknowledge. Narratives of continued growth and permanence become accepted and expected while the understanding of urban dynamics becomes lost. In many parts of the world, the shrinking cities phenomenon has given rise to a new awareness of urban transition that provides a laboratory of new conditions at the intersection of urbanism and ecology. With property vacancy rates easily exceeding 50% in certain locations, cities in the American Rust Belt look more like successional woodlands than bustling metropolises, yet these cities still contain significant numbers of urban residents. A central question that arises from this phenomenon is: how can vacant land, through the provision of ecosystem services, become a resource as opposed to a liability? This paper looks to recent studies in urban ecology as a lens for understanding the land use potential of shrinking cities, while discussing unconventional solutions for sustainable development of urban land.
The Superhilac Upgrade Project

This project will increase the uranium output of the Bevalac heavy-ion facility from the currently available 107 to 5×107 ions/pulse, allowing accurate Lamb shift measurements to be made in U90+ and U91+ with important applications to the testing of quantum electrodynamics and the development of an x-ray laser. The injected beam intensity will be increased to make better use of the 10emA output space-charge limit of the Wideroe linac. Components will include a new high current MEtal Vapor Vacuum Arc (MEVVA) ion source1 along with an improved high current, high voltage Cockcroft-Walton power supply to handle the increased beam current. The Low Energy Beam Transport (LEBT) line will be upgraded with additional focusing to manage the increased space-charge forces and with an improved vacuum to reduce charge exchange losses. Finally, the phase matching between the 23MHz Wideroe linac and the 70MHz Alvarez linac will be improved by the addition of the appropriate buncher cavities. Physics design is underway and detailed engineering is scheduled to begin in October 1985, with installation slated for the 1986 summer shutdown.
Grounding word meanings in sensor data: dealing with referential uncertainty

We consider the problem of how the meanings of words can be grounded in sensor data. A probabilistic representation for the meanings of words is defined, a method for recovering meanings from observational information about word use in the face of referential uncertainty is described, and empirical results with real utterances and robot sensor data are presented.
Understanding and overcoming barriers to human papillomavirus vaccine acceptance

New vaccines designed to prevent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection have the potential to reduce the incidence of serious illness and death worldwide among women, substantially reduce the emotional suffering associated with abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap) test results and the diagnosis of cervical cancer, and save significant health care dollars. However, these benefits may not be fully realized until the vaccine is accepted by patients, parents, and health care practitioners. Furthermore, there may be unique issues related to the acceptance of a vaccine designed to prevent a sexually transmitted infection that is poorly understood by many women. Among the acceptance issues are: individual comfort with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) vaccine; parental comfort with vaccination of their preadolescent/early adolescent daughters; physician comfort with recommending a human papillomavirus vaccine to women and parents of preadolescents; and physician communication skills related to talking with women and parents about the vaccine. Potentially difficult as it might be to implement a vaccination program, vaccination and prevention of HPV-associated disease are still infinitely preferable to observation and treatment. This article will review some of the potential barriers to HPV Vaccine acceptance, with a particular focus on factors relevant to female patients, parents, and health care providers.
Active rigidity joint

Unimorph active rigidity joints, constructed from Shape Memory Alloy and Shape Memory Polymer and capable of bending actuation, are reported in this work. An embedded aluminum shim was added to each joint as a structural element to facilitate actuation. Joints were actuated using ohmic Tri-Phase and pulse heating processes with different results. It appeared that openloop position control could be achieved using pulse heating. Actuator improvements and future experiments are proposed.
Joint estimation of discount rates and willingness to pay for public goods

Abstract We analyze willingness to pay (WTP) for environmental programs whose time periods of benefit and repayment differ, using a net present value framework that identifies parameters of both WTP and personal discount rates. Respondents to a contingent valuation survey focusing on protection of critical habitat buffer zones for the endangered Steller Sea Lion in Alaska were asked their willingness to pay for 1-, 5-, and 15-year repayment periods. We jointly estimate the personal discount rates and WTP via maximum likelihood, and compare with a model assuming a fixed, market discount rate.
Differential diagnosis of colitis

NSAID injury can mimic IBC, can exacerbate IBD, and NSAID use may also be more common in the diarrheal syndrome of collagenous colitis, though there is no clear role in pathogenesis.
Low‐temperature IR spectroscopy reveals four stages of water loss during lyophilization of hen egg white lysozyme

Water loss during lyophilization of a 49.4 mg/mL solution of lysozyme in D2O was studied with ir spectroscopy using a low-temperature, single reflection, horizontal, attenuated, total reflectance accessory. Four regions of water loss were identified and assignable to different forms of bound water. The amide I band begins to shift to higher frequency while the amide II concurrently shifts to lower frequency and broadens after the first stage of water loss (sublimation) at −10°C. Additionally, the carboxylate band (at 1584 cm−1) shifts slightly to lower frequency. A second stage at 17°C is characterized by continued shifts in the carboxylate and amide II bands to low frequency, further broadening in the amide II and greater shift to high frequency in the amide I (ascribed to the removal of periphery water around the protein). At the third stage of water loss, the carboxylate band decreases substantially in relative absorbance (consistent with the removal of water from the carbonyl backbone). In the fourth and last stage, the carboxylate band nearly disappears and water loss is very slow. Based upon a final level of hydration of 0.037 h, the last stage corresponds to 25% completion of the removal of water associated with ionizable side chains. From start to finish, the amide I shifts 9 cm−1 to higher frequency. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Impact of a focused nutrition educational intervention coupled with improved access to fresh produce on purchasing behavior and consumption of fruits and vegetables in overweight patients with diabetes mellitus.

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to test the impact of distributing coupons redeemable at farmers markets plus an educational intervention on fruit and vegetable (F&V) purchase and consumption in overweight patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).MethodsSeventy-eight participants with T2DM being followed at Jacobi Medical Center, a large public hospital in the Bronx, New York, were randomized to receive the standard of care or a 1-hour session focused on benefits of F&V consumption and $6 in coupons. Questionnaires assessed demographics, F&V intake, and farmers market purchasing at baseline and 12 weeks. Clinical parameters were obtained through chart review at baseline and at 12 weeks.ResultsParticipants were predominantly Latino, females, and low income. At 12 weeks, there was a statistically significant increase in the number of participants in the intervention arm who reported purchasing from a farmers market. In addition, there was a minimal increase in fresh fruit intake in the intervention arm at ...
Simultaneous reconstruction and motion estimation for gated cardiac ECT

The primary goal of this work has been to develop a processing method for gated cardiac emission computed tomography (ECT) that simultaneously reconstructs the pixel intensities of the gated images and estimates the motion of the cardiac wall. The simultaneous reconstruction and motion estimation is achieved using conjugate gradient optimization with an objective function that is dependent on the gated reconstructed images at two time frames and the estimated motion of the object between the two frames. The method was evaluated on simulated phantom data both with and without Poisson noise. With noise-free data, the accuracy of the motion estimate and the quality of the reconstructed images were found to be dependent on the hyperparameter selection. With noisy data, the simultaneous method produced reconstructed images with smaller squared error compared with images reconstructed without motion estimation. In a patient gated myocardial perfusion study, the estimated motion between two frames agreed with subjective assessment of wall motion.
The Anatomy of Public Opinion By Jacob Shamir and Michal Shamir. Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press, 2000. 320p. $52.50.

What is public opinion? In this aptly named book, authors Jacob Shamir and Michal Shamir attempt to address their perceived deficiencies in public opinion research by posing a new theoretical framework for the study of this important subject. Though hundreds of books, articles, and monographs have addressed public opinion, the authors contend that current theories of public opinion are too deterministic and that they fall short of explaining the full range of public opinion possibilities. Existing studies attempt to interpret public opinion on the basis of the observed outcomes—i.e., Why was a particular opinion expressed? What does it mean in the context of the instrument constructed to measure that opinion? The authors believe that to understand public opinion, one must come to understand the role of the information environment in which that opinion is located. In other words, Shamir and Shamir are not interested simply in the static outcomes of public opinion but in the environment in which that opinion is constructed. To this end, they propose a new theoretical construct by which to interpret it.
Device-based Isolation for Securing Cryptographic Keys☆☆☆

We describe an effective device-based isolation approach for achieving data security. We show its use in protecting the secrecy of highly sensitive data that is crucial to security operations, such as cryptographic keys used for decrypting ciphertext or signing digital signatures. Private key is usually encrypted in its storage when not used; however, when being used, the plaintext key is loaded into the memory of the host for access. We present a novel and practical solution and its prototype called DataGuard to protect the secrecy of the highly sensitive data through the storage isolation and secure tunneling enabled by a mobile handheld device. DataGuard can be deployed for the key protection of individuals or organizations. We implement three prototypes and conduct extensive experiments to evaluate the feasibility and performance of DataGuard. The results show that our approach performs well without significant overhead.
Immunostimulatory Tim-1-specific antibody deprograms Tregs and prevents transplant tolerance in mice.

T cell Ig mucin (Tim) molecules modulate CD4+ T cell responses. In keeping with the view that Tim-1 generates a stimulatory signal for CD4+ T cell activation, we hypothesized that an agonist Tim-1–specific mAb would intensify the CD4+ T cell–dependant allograft response. Unexpectedly, we determined that a particular Tim-1–specific mAb exerted reciprocal effects upon the commitment of alloactivated T cells to regulatory and effector phenotypes. Commitment to the Th1 and Th17 phenotypes was fostered, whereas commitment to the Treg phenotype was hindered. Moreover, ligation of Tim-1 in vitro effectively deprogrammed Tregs and thus produced Tregs unable to control T cell responses. Overall, the effects of the agonist Tim-1–specific mAb on the allograft response stemmed from enhanced expansion and survival of T effector cells; a capacity to deprogram natural Tregs; and inhibition of the conversion of naive CD4+ T cells into Tregs. The reciprocal effects of agonist Tim-1–specific mAbs upon effector T cells and Tregs serve to prevent allogeneic transplant tolerance.
Market Organization, Protection, and Vertical Integration: German Cotton Textiles before 1914

This article examines the causes for the relatively high degree of vertical integration in the German cotton textile industry before 1914. Underdeveloped input and output markets exposed German textile firms to price risks not faced by English firms that had access to highly-developed cotton, yarn, and cloth markets. In addition, tariff protection may have prompted integration by its impact on market development. In the weaving sector in particular, the response to this structure of markets was a more diversified product line and integration of both spinning and weaving.
The "golden egg" as a natural resource: toward a normative theory of growth management

Growth management is the branch of urban planning concerned with the timing and sequencing of land development and the policies designed to mitigate the more negative impacts of growth. These policies are often justified on the ground that rapid or poorly planned development causes “quality of place” to deteriorate, reducing both current welfare and the prospects for future growth (i.e., “killing the goose that laid the golden egg"). In this article, I evaluate the normative assumptions underlying this popular argument. I conclude that the “golden egg” argument makes an implicit analogy to resource economics and raises legitimate issues of sustainability and dynamic efficiency. Although an understanding of resource economics can provide more normative guidance than one typically finds in the urban planning literature, using these concepts to make policy is no easy task. Thus the golden egg argument remains subject to cynical manipulation by both pro‐ and antigrowth forces.
Effect of catalyst and underlayer metal on PECVD growth of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes

Growth behavior of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) grown on different underlayer metals is investigated. The average diameter, diameter distribution, density, and growth rate of CNTs exhibit strong correlation with the choice of metal and catalyst. These observations are analyzed in terms of the interactions between the catalyst and the underlayer metal.
An Examination of Cyriax's Passive Motion Tests With Patients Having Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Background and Purpose. We explored the construct validity and test-retest reliability of the passive motion component of the Cyriax soft tissue diagnosis system. We compared the hypothesized and actual patterns of restriction, end-feel, and pain/resistance sequence (P/RS) of 79 subjects with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee and examined associations among these indicators of dysfunction and related constructs of joint motion, pain intensity, and chronicity. Subjects. Subjects had a mean age of 68.5 years (SD=13.3, range=28–95), knee stiffness for an average of 83.6 months (SD=122.4, range=1–612), knee pain averaging 5.6 cm (SD=3.1, range=0–10) on a 10-cm visual analogue scale, and at least a 10-degree limitation in passive range of motion (ROM) of the knee. Methods. Passive ROM (goniometry, n=79), end-feel (n=79), and P/RS during end-feel testing (n=62) were assessed for extension and flexion on three occasions by one of four experienced physical therapists. Test-retest reliability was estimated for the 2-month period between the last two occasions. Results. Consistent with hypotheses based on Cyriax's assertions about patients with OA, most subjects had capsular end-feels for extension; subjects with tissue approximation end-feels for flexion had more flexion ROM than did subjects with capsular end-feels, and the P/RS was significantly correlated with pain intensity (rho=.35, extension; rho=.30, flexion). Contrary to hypotheses based on Cyriax's assertions, most subjects had noncapsular patterns, tissue approximation end-feels for flexion, and what Cyriax called pain synchronous with resistance for both motions. Pain intensity did not differ depending on end-feel. The P/RS was not correlated with chronicity (rho=.03, extension; rho=−.01, flexion). Reliability, as analyzed by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC[3,1]) and Cohen's kappa coefficients, was acceptable (≥.80) or nearly acceptable for ROM (ICC=.71–.86, extension; ICC=.95–.99, flexion) but not for end-feel (κ=.17, extension; κ=.48, flexion) and P/RS (κ=.36, extension; κ=.34, flexion). Conclusion and Discussion. The use of a quantitative definition of the capsular pattern, end-feels, and P/RS as indicators of knee OA should be reexamined. The validity of the P/RS as representing chronicity and the reliability of end-feel and the P/RS are questionable. More study of the soft tissue diagnosis system is indicated.
Perceived learning needs of the patient undergoing coronary angioplasty: An integrative review of the literature

Abstract Objective: This study presents, through an integrative review, a comprehensive account of the perceived concerns and learning needs of patients in the early recovery period after a coronary angioplasty. Scope: Nineteen studies involving the patient who has undergone coronary angioplasty were identified using CINAHL and MEDLINE. These studies were examined to compare samples, methods, findings, implications, and suggestions for future research. Findings: Overall the subjects believed that undergoing coronary angioplasty was positive and beneficial, and they viewed it as a minimally invasive, routine procedure. Informational knowledge, such as risk factor education and survival management, were considered of high importance. The majority of subjects modified their behavior, and the most common modification was in diet. Both learned knowledge and lifestyle changes decreased over time. Self-efficacy expectations and levels of anxiety were predictors of behavior changes and knowledge retention in the early recovery period after the coronary angioplasty procedure. Implications: Health professionals must emphasize the seriousness and long-term outcomes of untreated heart disease. Education programs should be individualized and streamlined. Spouses and significant others have informational needs and should be included in education programs. Learning needs in the acute care setting differ from those in the outpatient setting. Continuing education and resources need to be available for patients who are recovering from percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and their families, and should build upon knowledge obtained during hospitalization. (Heart Lung ® 2000;29:161-72.)
Scale structure of the team role self perception inventory

The Team Role Self Perception Inventory (TRSPI) has attracted several studies critical of its psychometric properties. This research uses a large data set and employs confirmatory factor analysis on within-scale scores to examine the dimensionality and reliability of the TRSPI's scales. Data show that five of the nine scales are unidimensional and that two other scales show generally good fit to a unidimensional solution. The ‘completer-finisher’ and ‘implementer’ scales show a better fit to a bidimensional structure and would benefit from improved item wording for a small number of items. The ‘shaper’ scale would also benefit from some attention to item wording. Reliability estimates suggest that the reliability of the TRSPI's scales is better than previous estimates imply.
Seizing the Moment: California’s Opportunity to Prevent Nutrition-Related Health Disparities in Low-Income Asian American Populations

Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) have the fastest growing rate of overweight and obese children. Aggressive programs are urgently needed to prevent unhealthy acculturation-related changes in diet and physical activity and to promote the healthier aspects of traditional lifestyle habits. We conducted focus groups and key informant interviews to explore knowledge, attitudes, dietary practices, and physical activity levels among three low-income Asian American ethnic groups, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Hmong, in California. Content analysis was used to identify similarities and differences among the groups. Several common health beliefs clearly emerged. Participants noted the importance of fresh (not frozen) fruit and vegetable consumption and physical activity for general health. The concept of good health included having a harmonious family, balance, and mental and emotional stability. All groups also expressed the general belief that specific foods have hot or cold properties and are part of the Yin/Yang belief system common to Asian cultures. The lure of fast food, children's adoption of American eating habits, and long work hours were identified as barriers to a healthy, more traditional lifestyle. A California campaign for Asian Americans using multilevel strategies is recommended to counter the alarming rise of obesity among AAPI youth. Strategies directed to individual, community, and policy levels should emphasize maintenance of healthy traditional diets, informed selection of mainstream U.S. foods, and promotion of active lifestyles to prevent an impending burden from cancer and nutrition-related chronic diseases in AAPI populations.
Issues in the diagnosis and management of small choroidal melanocytic lesions

Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in adults,50 with an estimated incidence in the United States of six cases per one million population.21,36,62,88,94,119 White patients are 7 to 10 times more likely to develop choroidal melanoma than African-American patients42,65,78,90 and 3 times more likely than certain Asian populations.49,55,57,88 Several epidemiologic studies suggest that the risk of developing uveal melanoma may be elevated in persons with light irides35,51,116 or light skin pigmentation.91 The median age at diagnosis is about 60 years.40,53,62,83,119 Very few cases have been reported in persons under the age of 15 years.97,109 This article provides a brief review of the differential diagnosis and options for management of choroidal melanoma, and discusses the controversy regarding management of small choroidal melanocytic lesions.
Study of a Rural Practice Dental Hygienist in a Public Health Setting: Analysis of an Administrative Dataset

States are grappling with the lack of access to oral health care for their child populations. This study evaluated a unique administrative dataset collected by a hygienist in rural Missouri who started a new clinic and provided services to a two-county population under what is known as unsupervised practice. Results showed 82% of 2-8 year olds presenting at the clinic had no prior visits to other practicing dental providers, indicating the benefits of new oral health providers in an underserved area. School-aged children (ages 6-12 years) were significantly more likely than other age groups to have higher numbers of recall visits and therefore, subsequently to use prevention services of the unsupervised dental hygienist at the rural clinic. The results suggest that improved systematic collection of data from dental hygienists in public health settings is needed to provide evidence that may affect public oral health policies.
Turnover of BRCA1 Involves in Radiation-Induced Apoptosis

Background: Germ-line mutations of the breast cancer susceptibility gene-1 (BRCA1) increase the susceptibility to tumorigenesis. The function of BRCA1 is to regulate critical cellular processes, including cell cycle progression, genomic integrity, and apoptosis. Studies on the regulation of BRCA1 have focused intensely on transcription and phosphorylation mechanisms. Proteolytic regulation of BRCA1 in response to stress signaling remains largely unknown. The manuscript identified a novel mechanism by which BRCA1 is regulated by the ubiquitin-dependent degradation in response to ionization. Methodology/Principal Findings: Here, we report that severe ionization triggers rapid degradation of BRCA1, which in turn results in the activation of apoptosis. Ionization-induced BRCA1 turnover is mediated via an ubiquitin-proteasomal pathway. The stabilization of BRCA1 significantly delays the onset of ionization-induced apoptosis. We have mapped the essential region on BRCA1, which mediates its proteolysis in response to ionization. Moreover, we have demonstrated that BRCA1 protein is most sensitive to degradation when ionization occurs during G2/M and S phase. Conclusions/Significance: Our results suggest that ubiquitin-proteasome plays an important role in regulating BRCA1 during genotoxic stress. Proteolytic regulation of BRCA1 involves in ionization-induced apoptosis.
Exploring complex networks

The study of networks pervades all of science, from neurobiology to statistical physics. The most basic issues are structural: how does one characterize the wiring diagram of a food web or the Internet or the metabolic network of the bacterium Escherichia coli? Are there any unifying principles underlying their topology? From the perspective of nonlinear dynamics, we would also like to understand how an enormous network of interacting dynamical systems-be they neurons, power stations or lasers-will behave collectively, given their individual dynamics and coupling architecture. Researchers are only now beginning to unravel the structure and dynamics of complex networks.