cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Textualizing Divination: The Writing on the Wall in Daniel 5:25

AbstractThe inscription in Dan 5:25 shares features with Mesopotamian divination as well as with later pesharim and rabbinic haggadic exegesis. In the inscription and its interpretation, the authors of Dan 5 applied mantic techniques to a sacred text—in this case, the writing on the wall “sent by God”—for the first time in the Bible. The story portrays not only Daniel, but Daniel’s God, as prevailing over competitors through the appropriation and mastery of Mesopotamian techniques of mantic writing. Dan 5 appears to bridge an important divide between pre-exilic and post-exilic modes of divination in the biblical text, enlarging the “genre” of biblical intermediary texts to include the interpretation of sacred writing.
A White Noise Approach To System Analysis In Demembranated Muscle Mechanics

Measuring the force response to sinusoidal length perturbations in muscle enables calculating the viscoelastic properties of the tissue over a wide range of frequencies. Coupling these empirical results with complementary mathematical and computational models describes the kinetics of force-generating actomyosin cross-bridges. This sinusoidal analysis requires system linearity, a constraint confining length stimuli to very small amplitudes in demembranated (skinned) muscle preparations because larger length perturbations produce a non-linear force response. Therefore, it becomes difficult to examine cross-bridge cycling kinetics during length transients that are comparable with sarcomeric strains experienced during contraction in living muscles. Here we introduce a white noise method of system analysis that facilitates extracting the linear and non-linear components of the system response. Building upon Wiener theory, this method estimates the system response to a band-limited Gaussian white noise length stimulus through cross-correlation techniques (Lee-Schetzen approach). To examine and develop this approach, we computer simulated the response of a pre-defined system consisting of both linear and non-linear components and were able to estimate the expected linear response of the system. These simulations demonstrate the powerful utility of this technique to separate the linear and non-linear system responses in both the time or frequency domains. We also examined the experimental applicability of these methods using small strips of skinned muscle tissue, from which we estimated the linear and non-linear components of the system response in calcium-activated muscle. This linear component is consistent with the linear system response calculated from comparable measurements using sinusoidal length perturbation analysis. These computational and experimental methods provide a platform for characterizing cross-bridge cycling behavior, and permits distinguishing between linear and non-linear components of the complicated force responses following length transients associated with normal muscle contraction.
Assessment of High School Dance Students' Self-Esteem

Abstract The changes in self-esteem of dance students at eight high schools in comparison to controls at the same schools (dancers = 116; nondancers = 109) were investigated. Assessment was performed with the Culture-Free Self-Esteem Inventory (CFSEI),1 using a pretest-posttest format. All dancers were at the beginning level, and the nondancers or controls were enrolled in a variety of academic classes. Analysis showed no significant differences overall between dancers' and nondancers' CFSEI scores. Dancers' scores did improve significantly between pretest and posttest, while the scores of the nondancers did not. The dancers at one school improved significantly in social self-esteem in comparison to the nondancers at the same school. The level of significance used throughout was p < 0.05.
Cost-of-Quality Optimization via Zero-One Polynomial Programming

In this paper, we consider a Cost-of-Quality (CoQ) optimization problem that finds an optimal allocation of prevention and inspection resources to minimize the expected total quality costs under a prevention-appraisal-failure framework, where the quality costs in the proposed model are involved with prevention, inspection, and correction of internal and external failures. Commencing with a simple structure of the problem, we progressively increase the complexity of the problem by accommodating realistic scenarios regarding preventive, appraisal, and corrective actions. The resulting problem is formulated as a zero-one polynomial program, which can be solved either directly using a mixed-integer nonlinear programming solver such as BARON, or using a more conventional mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) solver such as CPLEX after performing an appropriate linearization step. We examine two case studies from the literature (related to a lamp manufacturing context and an order entry process) to illustrate...
Sex differences in self-perceptions as students of excellence and academic performance.

Differences between the sexes in self-ratings on 37 characteristics of a quality student, changes in their perceptions over a semester, and academic performances were analyzed for 172 males and 281 females. The characteristics were collapsed into five groups reflecting learning in class, study habits and attitudes, peer relationships, student-instructor relationships, and physical and emotional needs. Trend analyses showed significant differences (a) between the sexes on three grouped characteristics: learning in class, study habits and attitudes, and peer relationships (with females reporting higher ratings), (b) among the three self-rating sessions (reflecting upward trends) on all grouped characteristics, and (c) on one interaction, student-instructor relationships. Analysis of variance showed that the females obtained significantly higher grades than did the males.
Linear stability analysis of Richter rolls

presence of vertical shear. Rayleigh numbers up to 10 6 are considered. The transition Rayleigh number over which longitudinal rolls are unstable is derived as a function of surface velocity. Effects of nonlinear vertical shear are shown to be insignificant unless nonlinearity becomes extreme. Our results are in good agreement with previous studies, except at high Rayleigh numbers where the meaning of roll stability becomes ambiguous owning to inherently time-dependent convection. When applied to small-scale convection in the upper mantle, our results suggest that the roll stability is very sensitive to plate velocity if the upper mantle viscosity is relatively high (� 10 20 Pa s); Richter rolls may be expected only beneath fast-moving plates such as the Pacific plate. INDEX TERMS: 3010 Marine Geology and Geophysics: Gravity; 3040 Marine Geology and Geophysics: Plate tectonics (8150, 8155, 8157, 8158); 8121 Tectonophysics: Dynamics, convection currents and mantle plumes; 8180 Tectonophysics: Tomography. Citation: Korenaga, J., and T. H. Jordan, Linear stability analysis of Richter rolls, Geophys. Res. Lett., 30(22), 2157, doi:10.1029/2003GL018337, 2003.
The Drosophila Cell Corpse Engulfment Receptor Draper Mediates Glial Clearance of Severed Axons

Neuron-glia communication is central to all nervous system responses to trauma, yet neural injury signaling pathways remain poorly understood. Here we explore cellular and molecular aspects of neural injury signaling in Drosophila. We show that transected Drosophila axons undergo injury-induced degeneration that is morphologically similar to Wallerian degeneration in mammals and can be suppressed by the neuroprotective mouse Wlds protein. Axonal injury elicits potent morphological and molecular responses from Drosophila glia: glia upregulate expression of the engulfment receptor Draper, undergo dramatic changes in morphology, and rapidly recruit cellular processes toward severed axons. In draper mutants, glia fail to respond morphologically to axon injury, and severed axons are not cleared from the CNS. Thus Draper appears to act as a glial receptor for severed axon-derived molecular cues that drive recruitment of glial processes to injured axons for engulfment.
A157) Interprofessional Education as a Vehicle to Instill Teamwork Mentality for Disaster Preparedness and Response in Healthcare Professional Students

There is a crucial need for teamwork in disaster management. Gaps in collaborative efforts resulted in significant loss of life and property during recent disasters. Such losses could have been minimized with enhanced teamwork. Unfortunately, the current US healthcare system fosters a fractured structure where health professions work in isolated silos. While coordinated disaster management has done much to overcome this, the silo mentality still inhibits maximal achievement toward the four phases of emergency and disaster preparedness and response. Since 2007, Western University of Health Sciences (Western U) has embarked upon an initiative focusing upon the concept of patient-centered, collaborative care in students from the beginning of the clinical education process. The intent of the program is to instill in all students non-technical competencies that promote teamwork such as communication, collaboration, and understanding scope of practice. The long term vision is to develop a three phase program (case based, team training and clinical experience) that will take the student through an awareness level to an application level of the competencies. The second phase of the program utilizes the TeamSTEPPS® training to instill these competencies in students. The application and assessment of the teaching points will be through community and patient safety exercises that include topics such as disaster preparedness and response. In conjunction with the TeamSTEPPS® training, the students from the nine professional programs (DO, PA, PT, PharmD, Graduate Nursing, Vet Med, Dental, Podiatry, and Optometry) will also be exposed to principles and practices of disaster response. By intensifying teamwork principles as the basis of disaster preparedness, the response pool for disaster response will be amplified, and future healthcare practitioners will be more aware of teamwork strategies necessary in a disaster setting. The intent of this presentation is to introduce this academic model including early outcome data.
The Austrian Search for Realistic Foundations

Self-designated Austrian economists have two different views of modem neoclassical economics. Some, such as F A. Hayek, take issue with certain aspects of neoclassical economics without disputing its fundamentals. Others, most notably Ludwig von Mises and Murray Rothbard, explicitly reject the foundations of neoclassical consumer and welfare theory and construct a systematic alternative. This paper analyzes the most distinctive features of the Mises-Rothbard alternative to the neoclassical paradigm; it also considers related positions defended by Israel Kirzner. I argue that their effort to rebuild economics on nonneoclassical foundations fails and that their critique of neoclassical foundations is wrong or strongly overstated.
Standard model higgs combined result from CDF

The Tevatron is expected to be most sensitive to the Standard Model Higgs in its associated production with a W or Z boson. The Collider Detector at Fermilab (CDF) has performed individual searches for such production in each decay channel of the vector boson, assuming that the Higgs decays to . These searches use data collected by CDF during the 1992-95 run. The individual results are reviewed, and a combined cross section limit is presented.
A simulation-search technique: An example application for left-turn phasing

A TECHNIQUE IS PRESENTED WHICH COMBINES SIMULATION AND SEARCH PROCEDURES. THE PARTICULAR SITUATION USED FOR AN EXAMPLE CONCERNS DELAYS TO LEFT TURNING AND OPPOSING TRAFFIC AT AN ISOLATED INTERSECTION WHERE THE LEFT TURN GREEN (LTG) AND FULL GREEN (FG) PHASES OF A PRETIMED TRAFFIC SIGNAL CAN BE SET TO ANY DESIRED VALUE. A TIME- ORIENTED SIMULATION IS MADE OF THE ARRIVALS, PROCESSING AND DELAY OF VEHICLES AT THE INTERSECTION FOR ONE LEVEL OF HOURLY ARRIVAL VOLUMES AND FOR ONE SETTING OF THE LTG AND FG PHASE. THEREAFTER, NEW SETTINGS ARE DERIVED BASED ON THE MEASURED DELAYS. THIS PROCESS CONTINUES UNTIL OPTIMUM SETTINGS HAVE BEEN ESTABLISHED. THE SEARCH PROCEDURE UTILIZED IS MULTIDIMENSIONAL AND STOCHASTIC IN NATURE AND RECOGNIZES A LEVEL OF RESOLUTION WITHIN WHICH NO MEASUREABLE DIFFERENCES IN A CONTROL VARIABLE CAN BE DETECTED. THE PROCEDURE ALSO TAKES ADVANTAGE OF ANY PRIOR KNOWLEDGE ON THE PART OF THE USER IN ORDER TO ESTABLISH A STARTING POINT. RESULTS INDICATED THAT MINIMUM DELAY SETTINGS CAN BE FOUND RATHER QUICKLY WITH THE TECHNIQUE EVEN IF THE STARTING POINT IS POORLY SITUATED. /AUTHOR/
On the association and dissociation of pentose nucleoprotein from particulate structures of the unfertilized sea urchin egg.

Abstract The distribution of PNA within centrifugally separated fractions of the unfertilized egg of Arbacia was investigated. The bulk of PNA could be separated within a fraction obtained only after spinning at relatively high forces. An estimation of particle size indicated that the minimum dimension of the PNA associated particulates was around 3 × 10 −6 cm in diameter, corresponding to a molecular weight of approximately 10,000,000 assuming a spherical structure. The PNA, presumably as nucleoprotein, was found to be dissociated into a less readily sedimentable form in the presence of strong KCl solutions as well as strong metal-complexing agents such as citrate and ethylene diamine tetra acetate. It was concluded that the dissociation was the result of a displacement of divalent cation (ca + + or mg+ +, or both) involved in either aggregate formation or binding of nucleoprotein to other sedimentable structures.
Organoboranes for synthesis. 18. C2-symmetric α,α′-disubstituted-2,6-pyridinedimethanols as catalytic chiral ligands for the enantioselective nucleophilic addition of diethylzinc to aldehydes

Several new chiral auxiliaries with differing steric and electronic environments, such as α,α′-dimethyl-2,6-pyridinedimethanol, α,α′-ditrifluoromethyl-2,6-pyridinedimethanol, α,α′-dipentafluoroethyl-2,6-pyridinedimethanol, and α,α′-diallyl-2,6-pyridinedimethanol, have been examined and compared with α,α′-di-t-butyl-2,6-pyridinedimethanol for their ability to control the enantioselective addition of diethylzinc to benzaldehyde. The best chiral ligand has been tested for other representative aldehydes with varying steric and electronic requirements. The product alcohols are obtained in 21–78% ee. Chirality 9:506–511, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Transsexualism, Gender Identity Disorder and the DSM

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) is currently in the process of revising the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM). Members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community have expressed interest and concern regarding the future status of the diagnostic categories of Gender Identity Disorder (GID) of Adolescence and Adulthood and GID of Childhood (GIDC) in the DSM-5. This article provides a brief history of the reasoning that led to the original placement of these diagnoses in the DSM and later in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). The article goes on to describe some of the cultural changes that have ensued, which have contributed to the controversy surrounding these diagnoses.
Leaking Sensitive Information in Complex Document Files--and How to Prevent It

Complex document formats such as PDF and Microsoft's Compound File Binary Format can contain information that is hidden but recoverable, as a result of text highlighting, cropping, or the embedding of high-resolution JPEG images. Private information can be released inadvertently if these files are distributed in electronic form. Simple experiments involving the creation of test documents can determine whether a particular program embeds hidden information.
An automated experimental vacuum deposition system

Abstract A deposition system is discussed which incorporates a mechanism capable of cycling many substrates through a deposition process under controlled conditions. The construction of the mechanism and its operation during the deposition process are described in detail. A non-fractionating evaporation source compatible with the mechanism is described together with presentation of composition data characteristic of the source. Also described is the construction of a magnet capable of producing a uniform localized field over the volume occupied by the substrates.
A high-linearity inverse-mode SiGe BiCMOS RF switch

The utilization of inverse-mode operation of the SiGe HBT in a single-pole, single-throw RF switch designed for high-linearity and high-power handling applications is investigated for the first time. By swapping the base-emitter junction with base-collector junction for switching, record linearity performance is obtained for SiGe BiCMOS switches at X-band frequencies, while maintaining comparable insertion loss. An IIP3 of 35 dBm and P1dB of 20 dBm is obtained while consuming 29.7 mW of dc power in the ON state. The inverse-mode switch did not show any degradation up to an RF power level of 30 dBm. The reliability mechanisms in SiGe BiCMOS RF switches is understood to be junction damage in the series-diode switching element.
Coping with an intra-institutional relocation: behavioral change as a function of residents' personal resources

Abstract A model of person-environment interaction was used to help explain the impact of an intra-institutional relocation on the behavior of residents who varied in mobility and mental status. Environmental measures indicated that the new building provided more prosthetic features, fewer orientational aids, a more complex floorplan, and increased distance between the social areas and the nurses' stations. Behavioral observations of a sample of 17 residents showed varying adaptations to these environmental changes. Wheelchair-mobile residents benefited from the improved accessibility, whereas immobile residents experienced reduced stimulation and further restriction of their spatial range. High mental status residents were drawn out of their bedrooms into social spaces. while low mental status residents spent less time in social areas and more in the halls near the nurses' stations, where they could maintain contact with the staff. Information such as this on the differential impact of a new building can contribute to the design process and to program modification aimed at optimizing resident functioning.
A new mechanism for magnetic annealing in amorphous metals

Magnetic annealing effects in amorphous alloys can be accounted for by the selective replacement of single atoms in the DRPHS structure, in such a way as to bias the initially random distribution of atomic local anisotropies. The composition dependence predicted by this model agrees well with results on Fe-Ni-B and Fe-Ni-P-B amorphous alloys without modification for tendencies toward clustering or compound formation. The model accounts for magnetic annealing effects in Fe-only alloys.
Instrument for measuring the marginal power of spectacle lenses.

An instrument is described that permits the measurement of meridional power at selected intervals from the center of the lens to the edge of the useful field. The viewing system simulates the rolling eye so that measurements are made under conditions closely approximating conditions of use. The instrument is capable of measuring spherical and cylindrical power with respect to the vertex sphere. A divided circle permits the measurement of distortion. Results of measurement are presented for two types of spectacle lenses of identical powers.
Role for Bcl-xLin the Regulation of Apoptosis by EGF and TGFβ1 in c-myc Overexpressing Mammary Epithelial Cells

Abstract We previously showed that TGFα synergizes with c-myc in mammary tumorigenesis through inhibition of Myc-induced apoptosis. We therefore examined the effects of growth factors on apoptosis induction in several cell lines from MMTV- myc mammary tumors. When EGF was withdrawn or TGFβ1 was added, cells became apoptotic after 15 h (by ELISA and morphology). Northern and Western analysis revealed high levels of Bax and p53, and low or undetectable levels of Bcl-2 and Bcl-x S under all treatment conditions. In contrast, Bcl-x L expression was highest in the presence of EGF or TGFα, with a significant reduction upon removal of EGF or exposure to TGFβ. In mouse mammary tumors, the relative Bcl-x L /Bax ratio was higher in TGFα/Myc double transgenics than in Myc single transgenics, in agreement with the in vitro data. Our results suggest a role for Bcl-x L in the regulation of apoptosis by EGF and TGFβ in mammary epithelial cells.
Character Displacement in Evolutionary Time

Patterns of distribution of morphology in the fossil record should be examined more rigorously to evaluate the relative effectiveness of alternative evolutionary models and to integrate the dimension of true evolutionary time more directly with evolutionary theory. Grant (1972) has discussed three main problems in the detection of character displacement: we must assume that sympatry followed allopatry, that the state in allopatry represents the static, pre-contact state, and that there are no other reasons accounting for differences within a species in allopatric and sympatric zones. These problems can be largely avoided with suitable paleoiitological data. In an example involving the coincident 10 million-year histories of two congeneric species of Devonian trilobites, the one known instance of sympatry reveals marked divergent shifts in one species and a “mixed” reaction of convergent, divergent, and neutral shifts in the other species. The characters undergoing these shifts are largely those which (i) serve as specific differentia , and (ii) show the most change within one of the species over its entire history. This suggests that character displacement may be simply a magnified microcosm of a general pattern of interaction between two species even when allopatric, provided that allopatry is sustained through competitive exclusion.
The Behavior of Neuronal Cells on Tendon-Derived Collagen Sheets as Potential Substrates for Nerve Regeneration

Peripheral nervous system injuries result in a decreased quality of life, and generally require surgical intervention for repair. Currently, the gold standard of nerve autografting, based on the use of host tissue such as sensory nerves is suboptimal as it results in donor-site loss of function and requires a secondary surgery. Nerve guidance conduits fabricated from natural polymers such as collagen are a common alternative to bridge nerve defects. In the present work, tendon sections derived through a process named bioskiving were studied for their potential for use as a substrate to fabricate nerve guidance conduits. We show that cells such as rat Schwann cells adhere, proliferate, and align along the fibrous tendon substrate which has been shown to result in a more mature phenotype. Additionally we demonstrate that chick dorsal root ganglia explants cultured on the tendon grow to similar lengths compared to dorsal root ganglia cultured on collagen gels, but also grow in a more oriented manner on the tendon sections. These results show that tendon sections produced through bioskiving can support directional nerve growth and may be of use as a substrate for the fabrication of nerve guidance conduits.
The arm configuration at the point of peak dynamic pull strength

Abstract This study examines the effects of velocity and starting position of pull on the configuration of the arm at the point at which peak maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) pull strenght is achived. Ten males performed 15 different isokinetic pulls each, defined by 5 starting positions of the arm in the saggital plane and 3 pull velocities for each position. Some restrictive conditions were applied to body posture and arm motions to facilitate biomechanical analyses of the results. All subjects were tested while seated. The results indicated that pull strength depended strongly on the starting position of the arm and velocity of pull. The angular configuration of the arm at peak strength position was unaffected by the starting position of the arm. This suggests that there may be an optimal arm configuration for dynamic (or even static) pull strength. For each tested velocity of pull, a different optimal configuration was found. Peak strengths attained have been explained by biomechanical principles, but the optimal arm configuration cannot yet be explained in the same way. The empirical relationships are, however, significant
Parallel between More Electric Aircraft and Electric\/Hybrid Vehicle Power Conversion Technologies

The aerospace industry is facing challenges similar to that of the automotive industry in terms of improving emissions, fuel economy, and also cost. The increasing use of electrical and electronic features to improve vehicle performance, fuel economy, passenger comfort, safety, and convenience has resulted in the growth of electrical loads in automobiles. The potential electrical loads include the engine cooling fan, engine coolant pump, active suspension, electric assist power steering, electrically heated catalytic converter, electric power take-off, electric brake-by-wire, heated windscreen, telematics, and navigation. The U.S. government's current rules for the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) program mandates an average of approximately 29 mi/gal, with a gradual increase to 35.5 mi/gal by 2016 (39 mi/gal for cars and 30 mi/gal for trucks). This will increase to 54.5 mi/gal starting from the 2025 model year. The electric, hybrid/plug-in hybrid vehicles, and fuel cell vehicles are considered the solutions to meet the above challenges.
Intake-Port Flow Behavior in a Motored and Fired Two-Stroke Research Engine

Abstract Velocity information was collected from an intake port of a single-cylinder piston-ported two-stroke engine by a laser-Doppler velocimetric (LDV) system to better understand and quantify the behavior of intake flow exiting into the cylinder during the scavenging process. Ten measurement locations were chosen along a vertical line through the center of the port exit area. Motored, fired (skipfired), and steady (stationary engine) radial velocity measurements were recorded at engine speeds of 600, 900, and 1200 rpm along with cylinder, intake (two positions), and exhaust pressure data. The ensemble-averaged mean radial velocities during motoring, when plotted versus crank angle, are generally flat over most of the port area and influenced by changes in pressure differential between the intake and exhaust ports. During the initial phase of the port opening, a high-velocity jet exits from the port, causing a peak in the mean radial velocity profile. As the port opening area increases, the reattachment point within the port passage apparently moves toward and beyond the exit plane of the port, resulting in near-zero velocities for the measurement points close to the top of the port. Mean velocities measured after the firing cycles are strongly affected by the expansion waves in the intake system, which induce backflow of cylinder gases at 600 and 900 rpm. At 1200 rpm, velocities for the motoring and firing cycles are very similar since the pressure differential between the intake and exhaust ports during the intake period are similar for the two cases. The root mean square (rms) velocity fluctuations are generally higher in the fired engine over all the measured engine speeds. Properly normalized ensemble-averaged mean velocity profiles along the measured direction are not shaped like a top hat but are very similar for motored, fired, and steady engine conditions, particularly at higher engine speeds. The volumetric flow rate is estimated using LDV results, compared with the actual measured value, and discussed.
Differential right hemisphere involvement in two reading tasks.

Verbal tasks are typically assumed to be processed by the left cerebral hemisphere, but the right hemisphere may have some role in language. EEG alpha was recorded from homologous central and parietal scalp locations of 12 male subjects reading technical passages and stories. Reading stories engaged the central area of the right hemisphere more than reading technical material. There was no significant difference in reading speed. Thus, some aspects of reading differentially involve the right hemisphere.
Perceived value of the clinical dual-degree program to DPM/MHA alumni.

Background: This article provides an analysis of the perceived value to doctor of podiatric medicine/master of health-care administration (DPM/MHA) alumni of the clinical dual-degree program at Des Moines University, Des Moines, Iowa, and a review of the literature on physician leaders. Methods: An in-depth review of the current literature and an evaluation of survey results from 21 of 33 alumni of the DPM/MHA dual-degree program at Des Moines University was completed. Results: There was an overwhelming positive response from alumni toward the DPM/MHA dual-degree program. It was also found that there is a need for physician leaders who obtain knowledge and understanding of the business aspects of medicine in the current health-care industry. Conclusions: These survey results provide justification that the DPM/MHA dual-degree program at Des Moines University is fulfilling its goal of providing an educational background in the administrative and clinical aspects of medicine that prepares students for the co...
Safety of implantation of a cardioverter-defibrillator without general anesthesia in an electrophysiology laboratory

Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) have conventionally been implanted in an operating room under general anesthesia. This study was performed to evaluate ICD implantation without general anesthesia by 2 electrophysiologists in an electrophysiology laboratory. Between February and September 1994, 27 consecutive patients (22 men and 5 women, mean age 59 ± 15 years) who underwent ICD implantation by 2 electrophysiologists were included in this study. Fourteen patients received biphasic waveform ICDs, and the remaining 13 had monophasic waveform devices. All patients received local anesthesia and intravenous sedation for implantation. Implantation was successful in 23 of 27 patients at first attempt (11 of 11 with biphasic and 12 of 16 with monophasic waveform ICDs, respectively). Of 4 patients in whom implantation was initially unsuccessful, 3 subsequently received biphasic devices and 1 had improved defibrillation threshold (≤26 J) on repeat testing after amiodarone withdrawal. Mean implantation time was 128 ± 51 minutes, with 132 ± 35 minutes under sedation. Patients who received biphasic versus monophasic waveform ICDs had no significant differences in mean sedation or implantation time. Minor complications occurred in 2 patients (7%): 1 minor abdominal pocket hematoma and 1 incision-site cellulitis. Mean time from implantation to discharge was 2.5 ± 2.1 days. During late follow-up (n = 23; mean 12.4 ± 5.8 weeks), all devices were functioning appropriately. In conclusion, this report demonstrates that ICD implantation can be successfully and safely performed by a team of 2 electrophysiologists using local anesthesia and intravenous sedation. A high rate of success and a low rate of complication could be expected in an electrophysiology laboratory with quality fluoroscopy and experienced personnel.
Implementing a Clinical Practice Guideline to Improve Pediatric Intravenous Infiltration Outcomes

The focus on quality, efficiency, and cost containment has spurred development of clinical practice guidelines to facilitate the use of research-based knowledge and expert opinion to promote desired outcomes. At the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, pediatric nursing took a leadership role in developing multidisciplinary guidelines for the prevention and treatment of intravenous infiltrations in pediatric patients, following the Iowa Model. The 3-year collaborative effort has resulted in a synopsis of the literature; a quick reference sheet based on the latter; infiltration staging guidelines; an infiltration decision algorithm; a table of recommended antidotes; and a standard of care. Outcome data showed improvement in ongoing intravenous site assessment, extent of infiltration and estimated infiltration volume assessment, physician notification of infiltrations, documentation of severity, and compliance with use of the guidelines and use of antidotes. The guideline recently has been revised, and outcomes will continue to be tracked.
Identification and characterization of two novel isoforms of Pirh2 Ubiquitin ligase that negatively regulate p53 independent of RING finger domains

Pirh2 is a newly identified E3 ubiquitin ligase known to inhibit tumor suppressor p53 function via ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. We have identified two novel Pirh2 splice variants that encode different Pirh2 isoforms and named these Pirh2B and Pirh2C. Accordingly, the full-length protein is now classified as isoform Pirh2A. The central region of Pirh2 harbors a RING finger domain that is critical for its ubiquitin ligase function. The Pirh2B isoform lacks amino acids 171–179, whereas Pirh2C is missing C-terminal amino acids 180–261, which for each isoform results in a RING domain deletion and the abrogation of ubiquitin ligase activity. Our findings further indicate that the Pirh2B isoform but not the Pirh2C isoform is capable of binding to Pirh2A, suggesting that the C-terminal region absent in Pirh2C is critical for Pirh2-Pirh2 interactions. Similar to Pirh2A, both Pirh2B and Pirh2C interact with p53; however, interactions between p53 and Pirh2B appear stronger than those between p53 and Pirh2C. Interestingly, although both Pirh2B and Pirh2C are not able to promote in vitro p53 ubiquitination, both are capable of negatively regulating p53 protein stability and promoting the intracellular ubiquitination of p53. Furthermore, like Pirh2A, both isoforms are able to inhibit p53 transcriptional activity. We have also for the first time demonstrated that Pirh2A as well as the novel isoforms also interact directly with MDM2 within a region encompassing MDM2 acidic and zinc finger domains. It is therefore possible that Pirh2A and the novel Pirh2 isoforms identified in this study may also modulate p53 function by engaging MDM2.
The effects of local structural relaxation on aluminum siting within H-ZSM-5

Semiempirical molecular orbital calculations have been performed to study aluminum siting in H-ZSM-5 zeolites. Local structural rearrangements upon substituting aluminum (with a charge compensating proton) for silicon are found to be important. The T12 site is found to be the most preferred site for aluminum substitution. However, the calculated energetics for substitution show that several tetrahedral sites are energetically comparable with regard to aluminum siting. Results pertaining to the electronic properties of the acidic site upon aluminum substitution at each of the twelve distinct tetrahedral sites are presented. The acidic center is found to be a rather soft species, with the HOMO-LUMO energy gap being roughly 8 eV.
Technique of injection into the spinal cord of monkeys.

Abstract Microintramedullary injection into the spinal cord was studied in the primate. A rate of 0.005–0.015 ml/min in the dosage of 0.025–0.035 ml/cm cord diameter in each side showed no significant alteration in the clinical condition of the animal in cord function except for minor alterations of somatosensory evoked potentials. No systemic effects were noted. The method of local drug injection may prove to be an effective way of obtaining a high local concentration of agents capable of modifying the spinal cord tissue response to trauma.
A counter hodoscope digital data handling and on-line computer system used in high energy scattering experiments

Abstract This paper describes a counter hodoscope system with automatic digital data handling and on-line computer developed for and used in a series of high energy scattering experiments at the Brookhaven 33 GeV Alternate Gradient Synchrotron. These new techniques resulted in two orders of magnitude increase in data accumulation rate and the highest systematic accuracy. These techniques are also applicable to a broad class of counter and digitized spark chamber multi-particle production experiments.
Do women and men consider abortion as an alternative to contraception in the United States? An exploratory study.

The USA, a country with widespread access to the full range of modern methods of contraception, continues to have one of the highest abortion rates among developed countries. Forty-nine per cent of women reported ever experiencing an unintended pregnancy in 2001; 48% of these conceptions occurred during a month that contraception was used. We explored the extent to which people use contraception and abortion interchangeably to achieve their fertility goals via focus groups (n=4) and semi-structured in-depth interviews (IDIs) (n=18) with men and women between the ages of 18 and 35 in New York City in 2006. While there was a consensus that abortion cannot replace contraceptive use, poor couple communication, lack of planning, lack of acceptable contraceptive methods and the pleasures that people associate with having unprotected sex result in the perception that some individuals rely on abortion over contraception to prevent unintended births. Men and women both identified women as solely in charge of avoid...
Carbohydrate composition of potatoes. Pectin content

A colorimetric procedure for extracting and determining pectin in fruits was modified for analysis of potatoes. Pectin contents of different varieties and lots were determined. Results show that there was little difference in the pectin content of tubers from the varieties studied. Pectin content was independent of the specific gravity of the tubers and varied with different growing locations and cultural conditions. There was no correlation between subjective appraisal for texture and the pectin content of the potatoes.
Novologues containing a benzamide side chain manifest anti-proliferative activity against two breast cancer cell lines

Hsp90 represents a promising target for the development of both anti-cancer and neuroprotective agents. Structure-activity relationship studies on novobiocin and novobiocin analogues, led to the development of KU-32 and recently, KU-596, as lead compounds for the potential treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Similar to KU-32, we have demonstrated that upon replacement of the acetamide side chain present in KU-32 with a benzamide, this neuroprotective agent was transformed into a scaffold that manifests anti-proliferative activity. To assess structure-activity relationships for this new scaffold, a library of benzamide-containing novologues was prepared and evaluated against two breast cancer cell lines. Compound 14a manifested the most potent anti-proliferative activity from these studies and induced Hsp90-dependent client protein degradation in a concentration-dependent manner.
“I Would Do HIV Adoption 100 Times Over Again”: An Exploratory Study on Families With Internationally Adopted Children With PHIV

ABSTRACTInternationally adopted children with perinatally acquired HIV (PHIV) are an emerging population in the United States. One key informant and nine mothers of internationally adopted children with PHIV were interviewed about the adoption process, HIV disclosure, and family needs. Qualitative analyses of transcribed interviews revealed that faith played a pivotal role in pursuing “HIV adoption.” Many participants expressed initial fear about adopting a child with PHIV, but gained confidence through education on transmission risks and the improved lifespan of children with PHIV. Participants reported few HIV-related challenges. Many actively promoted the international adoption of children with PHIV and used disclosure as a tool for education.
Epigenetics of Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia

The term epigenetics refers to the study of a number of biochemical modifications of chromatin that have an impact on gene expression regulation. Aberrant epigenetic lesions, in particular DNA methylation of promoter associated CpG islands, are common in acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). Recent data from multiple laboratories indicate that several hundred genes, involving dozens of critical molecular pathways, are epigenetically suppressed in ALL. Because these lesions are potentially reversible, the reactivation of these pathways using, for instance, hypomethylating agents may have therapeutic potential in this disease. Furthermore, the analysis of epigenetic alterations in ALL may allow: (1) identification of subsets of patients with poor prognosis when treated with conventional therapy; (2) development of new techniques to evaluate minimal residual disease; (3) better understanding of the differences between pediatric and adult ALL; and (4) new therapeutic interventions by incorporating agents with hypomethylating activity to conventional chemotherapeutic programs. In this review, we describe the role of epigenetic alterations in ALL from a translational perspective.
Genetic Animal Models in the Study of Alcoholism

Several methods have been applied to the study of the genetic determinants of ethanol (EtOH) sensitivity in animals. The use of inbred strains has indicated that virtually all responses to EtOH have a significant degree of genetic determination. Studies with large batteries of inbred strains have elucidated the common genetic control of several clusters of EtOH-related variables. Studies with Recombinant Inbred strains have identified single genes that may influence EtOH withdrawal severity and EtOH preference drinking. The best developed method has been the use of selective breeding to develop lines of mice or rats differing in EtOH-related behavioral characters. Illustrative examples of potentially important research findings from experiments with LS/SS, P/NP, and WSP/WSR selected lines are discussed. Significant progress has been made in the use of genetic animal models to further our understanding of EtOH-related traits. Several avenues for further research appear to be promising, and specific directions to be pursued are suggested.
SU-E-T-191: First Principle Calculation of Quantum Yield in Photodynamic Therapy

Purpose: We present a first-principle method to calculate the spin transfer efficiency in oxygen induced by any photon fields especially in MeV energy range. The optical pumping is mediated through photosensitizers, e.g., porphyrin and/or ensemble of quantum dots. Methods: Under normal conditions, oxygen molecules are in the relatively non-reactive triplet state. In the presence of certain photosensitizer compounds such as porphyrins, electromagnetic radiation of specific wavelengths can excite oxygen to highly reactive singlet state. With selective uptake of photosensitizers by certain malignant cells, photon irradiation of phosensitized tumors can lead to selective killing of cancer cells. This is the basis of photodynamic therapy (PDT). Despite several attempts, PDT has not been clinically successful except in limited superficial cancers. Many parameters such as photon energy, conjugation with quantum dots etc. can be potentially combined with PDT in order to extend the role of PDT in cancer management. The key quantity for this optimization is the spin transfer efficiency in oxygen by any photon field. The first principle calculation model presented here, is an attempt to fill this need. We employ stochastic density matrix description of the quantum jumps and the rate equation methods in quantum optics based on Markov/Poisson processes andmore » calculate time evolution of the population of the optically pumped singlet oxygen. Results: The results demonstrate the feasibility of our model in showing the dependence of the optical yield in generating spin-singlet oxygen on the experimental conditions. The adjustable variables can be tuned to maximize the population of the singlet oxygen hence the efficacy of the photodynamic therapy. Conclusion: The present model can be employed to fit and analyze the experimental data and possibly to assist researchers in optimizing the experimental conditions in photodynamic therapy.« less
Contemporaneous Ultraviolet and Optical Observations of Direct and Raman-scattered O VI Lines in Symbiotic Stars

Symbiotic stars are binary systems consisting of a hot star, typically a white dwarf, and a cool giant companion. The wind from the cool star is ionized by the radiation from the hot star, resulting in the characteristic combination of sharp nebular emission lines and stellar molecular absorption bands in the optical spectrum. Most of the emission lines are readily identifiable with common ions. However, two strong, broad emission lines at 6825 and 7082 A defied identification with known atoms and ions. In 1989 Schmid made the case that these long unidentified emission lines resulted from the Raman scattering of the O VI resonance photons at 1032, 1038 A by neutral hydrogen. We present contemporaneous far-UV and optical observations of direct and Raman-scattered O VI lines for nine symbiotic stars obtained with the Hopkins Ultraviolet Telescope (Astro-2) and various ground-based optical telescopes. The O VI emission lines are present in every instance in which the λλ6825, 7082 lines are present, in support of the Schmid Raman-scattering model. We calculate the scattering efficiencies and discuss the results in terms of the Raman-scattering model. Additionally, we measure the flux of the Fe II fluorescence line at 1776 A, which is excited by the O VI line at 1032 A, and calculate the first estimates of the conversion efficiencies for this process.
Determinants of Clergy Behaviors Promoting Safety of Battered Korean Immigrant Women

Korean immigrants rely heavily on their respective churches for assistance with domestic violence. Yet, Korean clergy's responses to domestic violence are unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine factors that influence Korean clergy's responses to domestic violence in their congregations. Results showed that clergy's Korean cultural values, age, and length of residence in the United States influence their responses to domestic violence. Developing a collaborative working relationship between Korean clergy and domestic violence advocates, as well as providing training to Korean clergy targeting their knowledge, beliefs/attitudes, and skills is critical for promoting safety of battered Korean immigrant women.
A generic cell controller for the automated VLSI manufacturing facility

A generic cell controller has been designed and developed for an automated VLSI manufacturing facility. The components of the design phase include the detailed understanding of motivation for the effort, a requirements analysis (functional specification), a determination of design goals, a determination of appropriate assumptions, a feasibility design, and an initial performance evaluation. The design is quite modular and enhances the generic attributes of cell controller operation. The cell controller design is independent of the facility hardware, software, and networking base, and may be adapted to a single or multitasking system. The main component of the design is an extensive relational database with a relatively uncomplicated and generic schema. This database incorporates many of the control aspects of the cell controller, thus reducing the volume of control software. An initial performance evaluation indicates that the design is suitable for operation as a cell controller even when implemented on a relatively slow single tasking PC. >
Enhanced Oxygen Diffusion at 1400°C in Deformed Single‐Crystal Magnesium Oxide

The rate of oxygen difusion at 1400°C into pure, deformed, and scandium-doped MgO was measured using a secondary-ion mass spectrometer with 16O- primary ions as sputtering agents to monitor the penetration of 18O into the sample from an 18O-enriched surface layer. In samples doped with scandium, oxygen diffusivity did not differ significantly from the value, 1.3 × 10-15 cm2/s, found for the pure sample. In deformed samples, the diffusion coefficient was 5.8 × 10-15 cm2/s.