cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Osteoporosis-Related Health Services Utilization Following First Hip Fracture Among a Cohort of Privately-Insured Women in the United States, 2008–2014: An Observational Study

Timely identification and treatment of osteoporosis following hip fracture is recommended to mitigate future fracture risk, yet prior work has demonstrated a disconnect between evidence-based recommendations and real-world implementation. We sought to describe contemporary patterns of osteoporosis screening and initiation of pharmacotherapy following hip fracture based on medical and pharmacy claims in the OptumLabs™ Data Warehouse. From a national sample, we identified 8349 women aged 50+ years enrolled in private commercial or Medicare Advantage plans with no prior history of osteoporosis diagnosis, osteoporosis pharmacotherapy, or hip fracture who experienced a hip fracture between 2008 and 2013. Just 17.1% and 23.1% of these women had evidence of osteoporosis assessment and/or treatment within 6 or 12 months of their fractures, respectively. Women aged 80+ years were one-third less likely to utilize recommended services within 6 months, compared to those aged 50 to 79 years (13.8% versus 20.8%; p < 0.001). Utilization of bone mass measurement increased significantly among women aged 65+ years over the study period (p < 0.001) while declining among those aged 50 to 64 years (p = 0.2). In contrast, rates of osteoporosis pharmacotherapy remained steady among women aged 50 to 64 years (p = 0.8) yet declined among women aged 65 to 79 years and aged 80+ years (p = 0.07 and p = 0.004, respectively). Accounting for differences in all measured characteristics, receipt of primary care was the strongest and most consistent predictor of osteoporosis assessment or treatment following fracture. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Impact of Class Size on Student Evaluations for Traditional and Peer Instruction Classrooms

As student enrollments in computer science increase, there is a growing need for pedagogies that scale. Recent evidence has shown Peer Instruction (PI) to be an effective in-class pedagogy that reports high student satisfaction even with large classes. Yet, the question of the scalability of traditional lecture versus PI is largely unexplored. To explore this question, this work examines publicly available student evaluations of computer science courses across a wide range of class sizes (50--374 students) over a four year period. It first compares evaluations regardless of size and confirms prior work that PI classes are better appreciated by students than traditional lecture. It then examines how course evaluations change with class size and provides evidence that PI achieves a smaller decline in evaluations as class size increases.
Human Capital and the Growth of Good US Jobs

This chapter explores the economic development impacts of human capital, defined as the education and skills that workers use in their jobs. Examining the impacts of multiple indicators of human capital, Gabe shows that educational attainment, the percentage of a region’s workforce in creative occupations, and several types of job-related skills (e.g., critical thinking, management, technology, idea generation) help the growth of good jobs. Several of the human capital indicators positively impact the growth and productivity of metropolitan areas, suggesting that these characteristics are contributing to a divergence of the economic fortunes of US regions. The impacts of educational attainment and creative economy employment are considerably stronger in metropolitan areas, especially very large regions, as compared to states.
Influence of Proximity to Kin on Residential Mobility and Destination Choice: Examining Local Movers in Metropolitan Areas

A growing body of research has examined how family dynamics shape residential mobility, highlighting the social-as opposed to economic-drivers of mobility. However, few studies have examined kin ties as both push and pull factors in mobility processes or revealed how the influence of kin ties on mobility varies across sociodemographic groups. Using data on local residential moves from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) from 1980 to 2013, we find that location of noncoresident kin influences the likelihood of moving out of the current neighborhood and the selection of a new destination neighborhood. Analyses of out-mobility reveal that parents and young adult children living near each other as well as low-income adult children living near parents are especially deterred from moving. Discrete-choice models of neighborhood selection indicate that movers are particularly drawn to neighborhoods close to aging parents, white and higher-income households tend to move close to parents and children, and lower-income households tend to move close to extended family. Our results highlight the social and economic trade-offs that households face when making residential mobility decisions, which have important implications for broader patterns of inequality in residential attainment.
Osteoarthritis and Proprioception: What Does the Literature Reveal?

BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis, a common disabling degenerative disease of freely moving joints, is often accompanied by high levels of persistent pain, as well as significant impairments of function and functional capacity. This comprehensive literature review specifically explores the extent to which there is support for the idea that subnormal proprioception, a sensory modality involved in mediating reflex and coordinated movements, is an important feature of the osteoarthritis disease process, and hence worthy of efforts to detect this abnormality at the outset of the condition, as well as to intervene to heighten or normalize joint proprioception in symptomatic cases. METHODS: All English language peer reviewed published data pertaining to the topic of osteoarthritis and proprioception were sought. Pertinent clinical studies as well as intervention studies on this topic were then reviewed systematically with respect to their findings and study conclusions and reported in narrative form. RESULTS: Although a considerable number of studies published over the last 45 years were found to support a role for impaired proprioception in the pathology of osteoarthritis, this conclusion is not universal. Moreover, even though many forms of intervention can heighten proprioception, these interventions do not always result in the desired proprioceptive improvements, especially in the presence of severe osteoarthritic dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS: Further research to more definitively examine the influence of proprioception in the osteoarthritis disability cycle, and at what point intervention may be more useful than not, using agreed upon terminology, methodology, outcome attributes, and careful sampling, is indicated.
Robust Pinhole-free Li3N Solid Electrolyte Grown from Molten Lithium.

Lithium metal is the ultimate anode choice for high energy density rechargeable lithium batteries. However, it suffers from inferior electrochemical performance and safety issues due to its high reactivity and the growth of lithium dendrites. It has long been desired to develop a materials coating on Li metal, which is pinhole-free, mechanically robust without fracture during Li metal deposition and stripping, and chemically stable against Li metal and liquid electrolytes, all while maintaining adequate ionic conductivity. However, such an ideal material coating has yet to be found. Here we report a novel synthesis method by reacting clean molten lithium foil directly with pure nitrogen gas to generate instantaneously a pinhole-free and ionically conductive α-Li3N film directly bonded onto Li metal foil. The film consists of highly textured large Li3N grains (tens of μm) with (001) crystalline planes parallel to the Li metal surface. The bonding between textured grains is strong, resulting in a mechanical...
Ocean Ensemble Forecasting and Adaptive Sampling

An ocean adaptive sampling algorithm, derived from the Ensemble Transform Kalman Filter (ETKF) technique, is illustrated in this Chapter using the glider observations collected during the Autonomous Ocean Sampling Network (AOSN) II field campaign. This algorithm can rapidly obtain the prediction error covariance matrix associated with a particular deployment of the observation and quickly assess the ability of a large number of future feasible sequences of observations to reduce the forecast error variance. The uncertainty in atmospheric forcing is represented by using a time-shift technique to generate a forcing ensemble from a single deterministic atmospheric forecast. The uncertainty in the ocean initial condition is provided by using the Ensemble Transform (ET) technique, which ensures that the ocean ensemble is consistent with estimates of the analysis error variance. The ocean ensemble forecast is set up for a 72 h forecast with a 24 h update cycle for the ocean data assimilation. Results from the atmospheric forcing perturbation and ET ocean ensemble mean are examined and discussed. Measurements of the ability of the ETKF to predict 24–48 h ocean forecast error variance reductions over the Monterey Bay due to the additional glider observations are displayed and discussed using the signal variance, signal variance summary map, and signal variance summary bar charts, respectively.
Geologic and Climatic Time Scales of Nutrient Variability

Most ocean scientists are convinced that oceanic primary production plays some role in the global fluxes of biologically active elements such as carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and phosphorus (Berger and Herguera, this volume). That conviction leads to an interesting question, “What processes regulate primary producers on the large time- and space-scales characteristic of the geologic and climatic scales?”
Interventions for Frequently Hospitalized Patients and Their Effect on Outcomes: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: A small subset of patients account for a substantial proportion of hospital readmissions. Programs to reduce utilization among this subset of frequently hospitalized patients have the potential to improve health and reduce unnecessary spending. PURPOSE: To conduct a systematic review of interventions targeting frequently hospitalized patients. DATA SOURCES: PubMed MEDLINE; Embase (embase.com); and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, January 1, 1980 to January 1, 2018. STUDY SELECTION: Four physicians screened 4762 titles and abstracts for inclusion. Authors reviewed 116 full-text studies and included 9 meeting criteria. DATA EXTRACTION: Study characteristics, outcomes, and details regarding interventions were extracted. Risk of bias was assessed by the Downs and Black Scale. DATA SYNTHESIS: Out of the nine included studies, three were randomized controlled trials, three were controlled retrospective cohort studies, and three were uncontrolled pre-post studies. Inclusion criteria, interventions used, and outcomes assessed varied across studies. While all nine studies demonstrated reduced utilization, studies with lower risk of bias generally found similar reductions in utilization between intervention and control groups. Interventions commonly consisted of interdisciplinary teams interacting with patients across health care settings. CONCLUSIONS: Interventions targeting high need, high-cost patients are heterogeneous, with many studies observing a regression to the mean. More rigorous studies, using multifaceted interventions which can adapt to patients’ unique needs should be conducted to assess the effect on outcomes relevant to both providers and patients.
Transverse melanonychia in a child receiving chemotherapy

Transverse melanonychia is a rare finding often secondary to chemotherapy, orally ingested medications, or other iatrogenic interventions. A 19-month-old boy with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis treated with biweekly etoposide and dexamethasone developed transverse bands of pigment in all toenail and fingernail units consistent with transverse melanonychia. We review the literature for reported cases of transverse melanonychia and summarize suspected etiologies.
Vitamin D Patient Education with a Provided Prescription Prior to Newborn discharge Improves Adherence to Vitamin D recommendation in Infants Returning to Clinic for Follow-up

BACKGROUND: A study by Perrine et al., “Adherence to Vitamin D Recommendations Among U.S. Infants” (Pediatrics Mar 2010, peds.2009-2571) examined data from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II conducted from 2005 to 2007, showed that only about 50% of the infants who were breastfed, formula-fed, or mixed-fed met the 2003 AAP recommendation of 200 IU of Vitamin D per day, but even fewer than 25% would have met the 2008 AAP recommendation of 400 IU per day. The aim of this project was to assess the baseline adherence to Vitamin D recommendation among …
Support Vector Machines and Affective Science

Support vector machines (SVMs) are being used increasingly in affective science as a data-driven classification method and feature reduction technique. Whereas traditional statistical methods typic...
Mechanical and structural contributions of elastin and collagen fibers to interlamellar bonding in the arterial wall

The artery relies on interlamellar structural components, mainly elastin and collagen fibers, for maintaining its integrity and resisting dissection propagation. In this study, the contribution of arterial elastin and collagen fibers to interlamellar bonding was studied through mechanical testing, multiphoton imaging and finite element modeling. Steady-state peeling experiments were performed on porcine aortic media and the purified elastin network in the circumferential (Circ) and longitudinal (Long) directions. The peeling force and energy release rate associated with mode-I failure are much higher for aortic media than for the elastin network. Also, longitudinal peeling exhibits a higher energy release rate and strength than circumferential peeling for both the aortic media and elastin. Multiphoton imaging shows the recruitment of both elastin and collagen fibers within the interlamellar space and points to in-plane anisotropy of fiber distributions as a potential mechanism for the direction-dependent phenomena of peeling tests. Three-dimensional finite element models based on cohesive zone model (CZM) of fracture were created to simulate the peeling tests with the interlamellar energy release rate and separation distance at damage initiation obtained directly from peeling test. Our experimental results show that the separation distance at damage initiation is 80 μm for aortic media and 40 μm for elastin. The damage initiation stress was estimated from the model for aortic media (Circ: 60 kPa; Long: 95 kPa) and elastin (Circ: 9 kPa; Long: 14 kPa). The interlamellar separation distance at complete failure was estimated to be 3 - 4 mm for both media and elastin. Furthermore, elastin and collagen fibers both play an important role in bonding of the arterial wall, while collagen has a higher contribution than elastin to interlamellar stiffness, strength and toughness. These results on microstructural interlamellar failure shed light on the pathological development and progression of aortic dissection.
The impact of the globalization of cancer clinical trials on the enrollment of Black patients

Background The enrollment of Black patients in cancer clinical trials continues to trend far below the true prevalence of disease in Black patients in the United States, limiting the generalizability of trial results. A potentially overlooked contributor to the underenrollment of Black patients may be the increasing enrollment of cancer trials in countries outside the United States. However, the impact of the globalization of cancer clinical trials on recruitment of racial minority patients has been understudied. Methods In this study, race and accrual location data for all cancer drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) between 2015 and 2018 were analyzed. A disparity score was calculated for each approval, a metric comparing Black enrollment in clinical trials with the estimated burden of disease in Black patients. Results Of 49 global clinical trials supporting 35 FDA drug approvals with race data available, Black patients accounted for 2.5% of enrollment (range, 0%-10%), with a median disparity score of 0.19 (range, 0.01-0.98). In 21 clinical trials supporting 18 FDA drug approvals with both race and accrual location data available, 64% patients were enrolled outside the United States (range, 0%-100%). Black patients accounted for 3.2% of enrollment (range, 0.2%-10%), and the median disparity score was 0.23 (range, 0.01-0.98). There was a significant inverse correlation between the proportion of trial patients enrolled outside the United States and the disparity score (Pearson correlation, -0.61; P = .007). Conclusions The globalization of cancer clinical trials is associated with a widening racial enrollment disparity gap in the United States. The impact of global trials on domestic clinical trial generalizability warrants further consideration from a regulatory and policy standpoint. Lay summary Black patients continue to be underrepresented in cancer clinical trials; this disparity has worsened in recent years perhaps because of the globalization of cancer clinical trials. In an analysis of demographic information from 21 cancer clinical trials leading to US Food and Drug Administration approvals between 2015 and 2018, clinical trials conducted primarily outside the United States were 2-fold less likely to enroll Black participants than US clinical trials. Thus, the globalization of cancer clinical trials may have the unintended consequence of further exacerbating existing racial disparities in cancer clinical trial representation and ultimately the generalizability of trial results.
Rickettsiosis subcommittee report to the tick-borne disease working group

Tick-borne rickettsial infections are serious, common, and difficult to diagnose. Among the most important factors leading to failure to diagnose and treat tick-borne rickettsioses effectively is a lack of consideration of the potential diagnosis by primary caregivers and emergency department physicians in patients presenting with undifferentiated acute febrile illness during tick season. This situation exists because of insufficient primary and continuing medical education of medical students, primary care and emergency medicine residents, and practicing physicians regarding tick-borne rickettsioses specific to the region where they practice. Delayed initiation of treatment with an appropriate antibiotic is associated with adverse outcomes including increased rates of hospitalization, admission to an intensive care unit, and mortality. The earliest symptoms are nonspecific, consisting of fever, headache, myalgias, and nausea and/or vomiting. Laboratory abnormalities are typically absent at this time when the therapeutic response to an appropriate antibiotic would be optimal. There is a mistaken idea among a substantial portion of physicians that the best antibiotic available, doxycycline, should not be administered to children 8 years of age or younger or during pregnancy. For all of the above reasons, there is unnecessary morbidity and mortality caused by tick-borne rickettsioses. This report proposes measures to address these critical issues regarding tick-borne rickettsioses.
Interaction of human bone marrow fibroblasts with megakaryocytes: role of the c-kit ligand.

Human kit ligand (KL), also known as stem cell factor (SCF), steel factor, or mast cell growth factor, is a recently identified hematopoietic growth factor whose receptor is the product of the c-kit proto-oncogene. Alternative splicing of the pre-mRNA of KL/SCF results in secreted and membrane-bound forms of the protein. We and others have recently shown that the c-kit gene product is expressed on human megakaryocytes and that soluble KL/SCF in combination with granulocyte- macrophage colony-stimulating factor, interleukin-3 (IL-3), or IL-6 increased megakaryocyte progenitor colony formation (CFU-MEG) and stimulated mature megakaryocytes. Here we show that adhesion of human megakaryocytes to bone marrow stromal fibroblasts, which express the membrane-bound form of KL/SCF (mKL/SCF), is mediated in part by the interaction between mKL/SCF and the c-kit protein. This interaction also results in marrow fibroblast-stimulated proliferation but not an increase in ploidy of megakaryocytes; when the two cell types were separated by a transoluble membrane, proliferation did not occur. Adhesion and proliferation of human megakaryocytes to an immortalized murine stromal cell line SI/SI lacking the KL/SCF gene was impaired, whereas transfection of SI/SI cells with human mKL/SCF significantly increased both adhesion and proliferation. Marrow stromal fibroblast mKL/SCF may serve both as an adhesion structure and as a growth- potentiating factor for megakaryocytes in the bone marrow.
Consortial Licensing Issues: One Consortium's Viewpoint

Abstract Although library consortia are thought to be relative newcomers to the library field, in actuality consortia have existed for several decades. As consortia have become much more complex (multi-type versus single; “buying club” focused versus those with a focus on impacting scholarly communication), it becomes a daunting process to effectively meld the needs of each member institution. This article will briefly discuss the history of consortia as they relate to the library marketplace and examine the issues and trends facing consortia today. Negotiation tools which can help in obtaining fair and equitable content agreements will be highlighted.
Shape optimization using reflection lines

Many common objects have highly reflective metallic or painted finishes. Their appearance is primarily defined by the distortion the curved shape of the surface introduces in the reflections of surrounding objects.Reflection lines are commonly used for surface interrogation, as they capture many essential aspects of reflection distortion directly, and clearly show surface imperfections that may be hard to see with conventional lighting. In this paper, we propose the use of functionals based on reflection lines for mesh optimization and editing. We describe a simple and efficient discretization of such functionals based on screen-space surface parameterization, and we demonstrate how such discrete functionals can be used for several types of surface editing operations.
Schiff's Diseases of the Liver

The premier clinical hepatology reference for 50 years, Schiff's Diseases of the Liver is in its Tenth Edition--now in full color throughout. This edition features a major new transplant section focusing on pre-transplant and post-transplant evaluation and management. Also included are updates on key topics such as hepatitis, NASH, and drug-induced pathologies. The first third of the book covers anatomy, pathology, testing, imaging, and effects of liver disease on other organs. Subsequent sections address specific diseases and clinical syndromes. Each of the 12 sections begins with an overview, and each chapter starts with an outline of key concepts. Numerous clinical algorithms appear throughout the text.
Enhanced insider threat detection model that increases data availability

This paper demonstrates how to prevent or mitigate insider threats in relational databases. It shows how different order of accesses to the same data items may pose different levels of threat. Moreover, it states the conditions that are required to regard a data item as expired. In addition, it introduces the two different methods of executing insiders' tasks, and how to prevent insider threat in those. The models presented in this paper organize accesses to data items in a particular sequence so that the availability of data items is maximized and the expected threat is minimized to the lowest level. Furthermore, it determines when to give an insider an incorrect but acceptable value of a risky data item in order to prevent a possible threat.
Miniaturized compact water-cooled pitot-pressure probe for flow-field surveys in hypersonic wind tunnels

An experimental investigation of the design of pitot probes for flowfield surveys in hypersonic wind tunnels is reported. The results show that a pitot-pressure probe can be miniaturized for minimum interference effects by locating the transducer in the probe support body and water-cooling it so that the pressure-settling time and transducer temperature are compatible with hypersonic tunnel operation and flow conditions. Flowfield surveys around a two-to-one elliptical cone model in a 20-inch Mach 6 wind tunnel using such a probe show that probe interference effects are essentially eliminated.
Factors Associated With Changes in Perceived Quality of Life Among Elderly Recipients of Long-Term Services and Supports.

Abstract Objectives Advance knowledge about changes in multiple dimensions of health related quality of life (HRQoL) among older adults receiving long-term services and supports (LTSS) over time and across settings. Design A prospective, observational, longitudinal cohort design. Setting Nursing homes (NHs), assisted living facilities (ALFs), community. Participants A total of 470 older adults who were first-time recipients of LTSS. Measurement Single-item quality-of-life measure assessed every 3 months over 2 years. HRQoL domains of emotional status, functional status, and social support were measured using standardized instruments. Results Multivariable mixed effects model with time varying covariates revealed that quality-of-life ratings decreased over time (P Conclusions Findings advance knowledge regarding what is arguably the most important outcome of elderly LTSS recipients: quality of life. Understanding associations between multiple HRQoL domains and quality of life over time and directly from LTSS recipients represents a critical step in enhancing care processes and outcomes of this vulnerable population.
Composite antenna pattern for realistic ray tracing simulations

The widespread adoption of wireless local area networks (WLAN) and the emerging wireless personal area networks (WPAN) has required a deeper understanding of the indoor propagation channel. As a consequence, ray analysis techniques based on geometrical optics have emerged as the tools of choice for modeling indoor and outdoor environments. In realistic scenarios, antennas will be installed within proximity to wall structures or embedded in complex environments such as vehicle interiors for telematics applications. Hence. we no longer have free space antenna patterns but composite antenna patterns. We consider here the application of the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) technique for obtaining 3D antenna patterns in complex structures with different material properties. Simulation results are submitted and discussed.
Vibration‐rotation inelasticity in He–H2

Vibration‐rotation inelasticity in He–H2 is studied up to total energy 1.5 eV. This extends the previous lower energy pure rotational studies with the effective potential method. Comparison is made with breathing sphere calculations, and the corresponding vibration‐rotation differential and total cross sections are similar. However, it is shown that there are many other nonbreathing sphere type vibration‐rotation cross sections of comparable magnitude. The competitive roles of coupling and energetic resonance effects are quite apparent in the cross sections. The differential and total cross sections are examined for general characteristic behavior. An analysis is presented of the energy dependence of the cross sections. Finally, comments on general effective Hamiltonian methods are included.
New Type of D-C to A-C Vibrator Inverter

VARIOUS SYSTEMS have been devised to operate from direct current to supply alternating current at specified frequencies for specific loads. However, there have been the usual limitations to prevent individual extensive application of each type.
Regional Perfusion Abnormalities With Phenylephrine During Normothermic Bypass

Abstract Background . Hypotension and vasopressors during cardiopulmonary bypass may contribute to splanchnic ischemia. The effect of restoring aortic pressure on visceral organ, brain, and femoral muscle perfusion during cardiopulmonary bypass by increasing pump flow or infusing phenylephrine was examined. Methods . Twelve anesthetized swine were stabilized on normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass. After baseline measurements, including regional blood flow (radioactive microspheres), aortic pressure was reduced to 40 mm Hg by decreasing the pump flow. Next, aortic pressure was restored to 65 mm Hg either by increasing the pump flow or by titrating phenylephrine. The animals had both interventions in random order. Results . At 40 mm Hg aortic pressure, perfusion to all visceral organs and femoral muscle, but not to the brain, was significantly reduced. Increasing pump flow improved perfusion to the pancreas, colon, and kidneys. In contrast, infusing phenylephrine (2.4 ± 0.6 μg · kg −1 · min −1 ) increased aortic pressure but failed to improve splanchnic perfusion, so that significant perfusion differences existed between the pump flow and phenylephrine intervals. Conclusions . Increasing systemic pressure during cardiopulmonary bypass with phenylephrine causes significantly lower values of splanchnic blood flow than does increasing the pump flow. Administering vasoconstrictors during normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass may mask substantial hypoperfusion of splanchnic organs despite restoration of perfusion pressure.
Business strategy, marketing organization culture, and performance

Drawing on configuration theory, we develop and test a model which posits that overall firm performance will be influenced by how well the marketing organization’s cultural orientation (i.e., market, adhocracy, hierarchy, or clan) complements alternative business strategies (i.e., Prospector, Analyzer, Low-Cost Defender, Differentiated Defender) after controlling for other, key firm-level variables. Responses from a sample of senior marketing managers provide partial support for the model and demonstrate that high-performing businesses of one strategy type have a different cultural orientation than high-performing businesses of the other strategy types. And, contrary to previous research, the results of this study show that each of the cultural orientations may play a role in creating superior performance. We conclude with a discussion of the implications for scholars and for managers.
Pattern recognition analysis of bubbles impacting on tubes

Abstract Frequent impacts of bubbles on tubes immersed in bubbling fluidized beds can lead to excessive rates of tube erosion and vibration, with correspondingl
Usher and Schumpeter on Invention, Innovation, and Technological Change

Introduction, 596. — Innovation and technological change, 597. — Invention and innovation, 599. — Summary and conclusions, 605.
Pectic enzymes produced by Erwinia chrysanthemi and their effects on plant tissue

Abstract Erwinia chrysanthemi produced extracellular enzymes which degrade pectic acid in a trans -eliminative manner. Isolate 307, from carnation, produced at least two, and isolate EC 23 , from Philodendron , produced at least four polygalacturonic acid trans -eliminases. The enzymes produced by each isolate were separated from each other and purified by ammonium sulfate fractionation, diethylaminoethylcellulose column chromatography, and electrofocusing. Molecular weights for the six enzymes ranged between 30,000 and 36,000 as determined by gel filtration in Sephadex G-75 and sucrose density gradient centrifugation. The isoelectric points of two enzyme fractions from isolate 307 were pH 9·1 and 7·9 and those for the four enzyme fractions from isolate EC 23 were pH 9·4, 8·4, 7·9 and 4·6. Random cleavage of pectic acid was greatest with the enzyme fractions having isoelectric points at pH 9·4 and 9·1, intermediate for the fraction with an isoelectric point at pH 4·6, and least with the fractions with isoelectric points at pH 8·4 and 7·9. All of the trans -eliminases exhibited a Ca 2+ requirement and had pH optima between pH 8·2 and 9·8. All but one of the purified polygalacturonic acid trans -eliminase fractions from both E. chrysanthemi isolates induced electrolyte loss, maceration and cell death of potato tissue. The enzyme fraction with an isoelectric point at pH 4·6 from isolate EC 23 did not macerate potato, carrot or cucumber tissue even though it readily degraded pectic acid prepared from onion, carrot and cucumber as well as commercial sources of sodium polypectate, polygalacturonic acid and pectin N.F.
Formation of the Galilean satellites in a gaseous nebula

A model for Galilean satellite formation was analyzed in which the satellites accrete in the presence of a dense, gaseous disk-shaped nebula and rapidly form optically thick, gravitationally bound primordial atmospheres. Upper-bound temperatures expected during accretion lead to partially differentiated structures for both Ganymede and Callisto, although with Ganymede much more differentiated than Callisto. When allowance is made for the aerodynamic breaking of infalling planetesimal fragments, lower surface temperatures result, and the amount of partial differentiation of Callisto is small, possibly approaching zero for a narrow size distribution of infalling planetesimals. The model is chosen to be consistent with the observed densities of the Galilean satellites and our current understanding of Jupiter formation. The retention of ices more volatile than H_2O is considered but not modeled in detail. A nominal nebula of ∼0.1 Jupiter masses is constructed by consideration of likely surface density profiles and existing Jupiter collapse calculations. This nebula is optically thick (even if grain opacity is ignored) in both radial and vertical directions and has a temperature profile T ∼ 3600 (R_J/R), where R_J is Jupiter's radius and R is the radial distance in the disk midplane. Satellites accrete very rapidly (dynamical time scales being 10^2–10^4 years) and their optically thick gaseous envelopes are unable to eliminate the heat of accretion by radiation. Water-saturated, convective, adiabatic envelopes form, through which planetesimals fall, break up, and partially disseminate their mass. The resulting satellite surface temperatures during accretion are calculated. Possible implications of these models for the subsequent evolution of Ganymede and Callisto are explored and it is suggested that the extensive differentiation undergone by Ganymede may provide the right environment for subsequent resurfacing, whereas the relative lack of extensive differentiation for Callisto may explain the inferred absence of endogenic tectonism.
I. THE MICROBIOLOGY OF AGING CLAYS

The literature pertaining to microorganisms in clay and the aging of clay is reviewed. Preliminary to attempting to determine the effect of microorganisms upon the aging of clay, six clay bodies have been examined and the numbers and kinds of microorganisms have been determined. The numbers of bacteria found, the variety of species, and then-growth upon a medium prepared from an extract of ball clay are indicative of their activity. The bacteria identified are typical soil and water organisms. A method has been devised for the examination of the interior of lumps of native clay. One such clay gave no evidence of harboring living organisms beneath its surface, whereas the surface was highly contaminated, probably from external sources.
The presence of venoarterial shunts in patients with interatrial communications.

Evidence is presented which indicates that shunting of small amounts of blood from right to left occurs frequently through interatrial communications. Such right-to-left shunts are of small magnitude in the usual case of atrial septal defect, but it appears that of the fractions of blood shunted, a greater proportion has originated from the inferior vena cava than from the superior vena cava.
Proteonematalycidae (Acari: Acariformes), a new mite family from fore-dune sand of Lake Michigan

Abstract A new acariform mite, Proteonematalycus wagneri n. gen., n. sp., is described from the fore-dune sands of the southern shores of Lake Michigan, and a new family, the Proteonematalycidae is proposed. The Proteonematalycidae is tentatively grouped with the families Nematalycidae and Micropsammidae in the Nematalycoidea.
Pattern-Selection Based Power Analysis and Discrimination of Low- and High-Grade Myelodysplastic Syndromes Study Using SNP Arrays

Copy Number Aberration (CNA) in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) study using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays have been received increasingly attentions in the recent years. In the current study, a new Constraint Moving Average (CMA) algorithm is adopted to determine the regions of CNA regions first. In addition to large regions of CNA, using the proposed CMA algorithm, small regions of CNA can also be detected. Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) results prove that the CMA algorithm presents an insightful discovery of both large and subtle regions. Based on the results of CMA, two independent applications are studied. The first one is power analysis for sample estimation. An accurate estimation of sample size needed for the desired purpose of an experiment will be important for effort-efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The power analysis is performed to determine the minimum sample size required for ensuring at least () detected regions statistically different from normal references. As expected, power increase with increasing sample size for a fixed significance level. The second application is the distinguishment of high-grade MDS patients from low-grade ones. We propose to calculate the General Variant Level (GVL) score to integrate the general information of each patient at genotype level, and use it as the unified measurement for the classification. Traditional MDS classifications usually refer to cell morphology and The International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS), which belongs to the classification at the phenotype level. The proposed GVL score integrates the information of CNA region, the number of abnormal chromosomes and the total number of the altered SNPs at the genotype level. Statistical tests indicate that the high and low grade MDS patients can be well separated by GVL score, which appears to correlate better with clinical outcome than the traditional classification approaches using morphology and IPSS sore at the phenotype level.
Modeling Fault in Fatal Pedestrian Crashes by Using Various Data Sources

Binary logistic regression was used to model fault in 318 fatal pedestrian cases that occurred in Florida in the year 2000. The results were used to classify fault and identify factors that influenced fault. An expert fault assessment served as a control for predicting fault in each crash. The expert assessment team conducted a case review of each traffic crash by using additional data sources, such as traffic homicide reports, diagrams, photographs, accident reconstructions, and site visit notes. The logistic models correctly classified fault in anywhere from 84% to 97% of the cases. The existing Florida Department of Transportation algorithm correctly classified fault in only 56% to 58% of the same cases. Improvements in classification accuracy were shown to stem from two sources: the abundance of the data and the improved accuracy of the data. The mental state of the pedestrian and the driver were shown to be important in determining fault. Exhibiting a mental aberration, such as inattention, distraction, perception or decision error, or intoxication, increased the propensity for fault. Issues such as the number of lanes attempted in a crossing, the age of an individual, being a former vehicle occupant, having limited conspicuity, receiving a citation, and wet roads were also shown to be factors significant in determining fault.
Structural basis of drug binding to CYP46A1, an enzyme that controls cholesterol turnover in the brain.

Cytochrome P450 46A1 (CYP46A1) initiates the major pathway of cholesterol elimination from the brain and thereby controls cholesterol turnover in this organ. We determined x-ray crystal structures of CYP46A1 in complex with four structurally distinct pharmaceuticals; antidepressant tranylcypromine (2.15 A), anticonvulsant thioperamide (1.65 A), antifungal voriconazole (2.35 A), and antifungal clotrimazole (2.50 A). All four drugs are nitrogen-containing compounds that have nanomolar affinity for CYP46A1 in vitro yet differ in size, shape, hydrophobicity, and type of the nitrogen ligand. Structures of the co-complexes demonstrate that each drug binds in a single orientation to the active site with tranylcypromine, thioperamide, and voriconazole coordinating the heme iron via their nitrogen atoms and clotrimazole being at a 4 A distance from the heme iron. We show here that clotrimazole is also a substrate for CYP46A1. High affinity for CYP46A1 is determined by a set of specific interactions, some of which were further investigated by solution studies using structural analogs of the drugs and the T306A CYP46A1 mutant. Collectively, our results reveal how diverse inhibitors can be accommodated in the CYP46A1 active site and provide an explanation for the observed differences in the drug-induced spectral response. Co-complexes with tranylcypromine, thioperamide, and voriconazole represent the first structural characterization of the drug binding to a P450 enzyme.
Goal achievement provides new insights into interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome symptoms and outcomes.

Aims Goal Assessment Scaling (GAS), wherein patients specify goals then evaluate treatments with regard to goal achievement, has proven utility in assessing treatment of complex conditions such as chronic pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and incontinence. We used surveys and focus groups to characterize the goals of patients with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS) in order to create a pilot GAS. Methods 37 patients with IC/PBS recorded and ranked their treatment goals which were pooled and analyzed for emergent domains and priority rankings. 15 patients participated in 3 separate focus groups. Focus group audiotapes were transcribed and reviewed to identify major themes and goals domains. Results 140 separate goals were collected. Mean number of goals 4±2.73% had pain goals and 56% had frequency and/or nocturia goals. Focus groups revealed that urgency is a separate entity from pain or frequency and any of these may take priority. The groups defined urgency for IC/PBS patient as “the need to urinate due to an unpleasant sensation that prevents attention to any other task.” Additional goal domains of control, predictability, and information were explored. Unsatisfactory aspects of common urological surveys were discussed as well as positive and negative aspects of GAS. Conclusions Patients have individualized treatment goals. GAS holds promise for addressing individuality in a standardized format. A new instrument developed from this work is being piloted in a multicenter RCT. We also suggest that questionnaires investigating urgency in IC/PBS clarify the definition in a way more applicable to the specific condition. Neurourol. Urodynam. 28:13–17, 2009. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Thermodynamic calculation of emplacement pressures for batholithic rocks, California: Implications for the aluminum-in-hornblende barometer

The aluminum-in-hornblende (AH) barometer has been widely used to estimate the emplacement pressure ( P ) of granitic rocks. Application of the barometer has remained controversial because the controls on the aluminum content of hornblende imposed by temperature ( T ), magma composition, and fluid composition remain incompletely understood. In this paper, the P-T conditions of equilibration for 19 rocks from the Mesozoic batholiths of California are estimated by simultaneous evaluation of (1) the P -sensitive reaction tremolite + phlogopite + 2 anorthite + 2 albite = 2 pargasite + 6 quartz + K-feldspar and (2) previously published amphibole-plagioclase thermometer equilibria. P estimates for the batholiths range from 1.2 to 7.4 kbar and are consistent with independent geologic evidence. The highest P samples (5.1–7.4 kbar) are located near the San Andreas fault. Furthermore, it appears that regional P gradients determined by previous AH barometry studies are valid, but that the absolute values of the P estimates will need to be revised somewhat (±1.5 kbar). I suggest that the method of this study provides a viable, thermodynamics-based alternative to conventional AH barometry that requires no a priori assumptions about T or bulk composition.
Sugar Transport in Conducting Elements of Sugar Beet Leaves

Autoradiography was used to determine the distribution of labeled sugar in conducting elements of the blade and petiole of sugar beet leaves at intervals ranging from 5 sec to 24 hr. The processes of assimilation by the green cells, collection of sugar in the minor veins and export in phloem elements were demonstrated visually. It appears that in minor veins sugar is translocated in companion cells rather than sieve tubes. In major veins translocation occurs in sieve tubes.
Role of Cyclic Amp-Dependent Protein Kinase (Pka) in Regulating Egg-Laying Hormone (Elh) Secretion From AplΥSia Bag Cells

The aim of the present work was to generate information that allows further exploration of mechanisms regulating release of egg-laying hormone (ELH) from neuroendocrine bag cells of Aplysia. To start, experiments that document the pattern of ELH secretion in response to an electrical afterdischarge from excised neural preparations maintained in vitro, as well as from freely-behaving animals arc described. Preliminary studies invcstigating the role of the cAMP second-messenger system in regulating ELH secretion are also discussed. Concentrations of ELH, from either medium (in vitro preparations) or hemolymph (in vivo preparations), were measured by radioimmunoassay. In both types of preparations, the electrical afterdischarge triggered ELH secretion, but peak levels were reached near the end of or following termination of the afterdischarge. All preparations showed prolonged durations of secretion that extended at least 43 min past the end of the afterdischarge, indicating that action potentials arc not required for maintaining secretion of ELH. What cellular processes regulate this prolonged secretion? The cAMP second-messenger system is a likely candidate because of its suggested role in excitation of bag-cell membrane and transport of secretory granules to bag-cell growth cones in culture. Treatment with the specific cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) inhibitor RpcAMPS attenuated the amplitude and duration of ELH secretion, whereas the PKA stimulator Sp-cAMPS had no significant effects on secretion compared to untreated controls. These preliminary results suggest that: 1) PKA plays an important role in regulating ELH release; 2) Afterdischarge-induced PKA maximally stimulates ELH release such that further elevations in PKA do not enhance secretion.
A Call for Rational and Cost-Effective NSAID Therapy

(1994). A Call for Rational and Cost-Effective NSAID Therapy. Journal of Pharmaceutical Care in Pain & Symptom Control: Vol. 2, No. 2, pp. 39-46.