cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Immediate versus staged urethrectomy in patients at high risk of urethral recurrence: Is there a benefit to either approach?

Abstract Objectives To compare treatment-related outcomes of immediate and staged urethrectomy in patients at high risk of urethral recurrence. Methods We retrospectively identified 76 male patients with cystectomy for transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder who had undergone urethrectomy in the absence of established urethral recurrence. Concomitant cystoprostatectomy and urethrectomy was performed in 57 patients and staged urethrectomy in 19 patients. The criteria for staged urethrectomy were the presence of a positive urethral margin or established transitional cell carcinoma of the urethra in the cystectomy specimen. The mean interval from cystectomy to staged urethrectomy was 4.7 months (range 1.4 to 14). Results The most common pathologic finding of the urethrectomy specimens was prostatic duct involvement (31.6%) in the immediate urethrectomy group and Stage pT0 in the delayed urethrectomy group (73.7%). No statistically significant difference in disease-specific survival was noted between the immediate and staged groups ( P = 0.14). Similarly, no difference was noted in postoperative complication rates or total operative blood loss ( P = 0.77 and P = 0.64, respectively). However, a slight benefit for immediate urethrectomy was noted in the total duration of hospitalization ( P = 0.01). The presence of local or distant recurrence was a predictor of disease-specific survival ( P = 0.02 and P = 0.02, respectively). Conclusions Immediate and staged urethrectomy appear to be similar in surgical morbidity and disease-specific survival. A benefit was noted for the immediate group in the total duration of hospitalization. The development of local or distant recurrence was a predictor of poor survival.
Conductance, admittance, and hypertonic saline: should we take ventricular volume measurements with a grain of salt?

undoubtedly the most comprehensive way to assess contractile function of the heart relies on pressure-volume relationships, often called pressure-volume loops. Originally established in the canine model by Sagawa and coworkers, pressure-volume relationships allow us to determine indexes of
Optical spectrum of inter-subband transition in n-Si (111) MOS charge layer

Abstract Resonance spectra of simple transmission and transmission line configurations are investigated for possible models of the ground state, i.e., normal state, stress induced state, and charge density wave state with and without domain structure. Characteristic feature of the spectrum depends on the model because of a combined effect of tilted energy surface of the conduction band of Si, depolarization field, and coherence among transitions in different valleys. Existence of the depolarization shift depends on the symmetry of the ground state and size of the domain.
Is collective bargaining a collective good

This study argues that legislation imposes on collective bargaining an artificial collective goods characteristic as a legal property, which should be distinguished from collective goods in the economic sense. The law creates an artificial freerider problem. Congressional intent was to require compulsory unionism to the extent that all workers would be required to share in the expenses incurred by the union in the negotiation and administration of collective bargaining agreements. Recent court decisions have attempted to define the obligation of employees, employers, and labor unions in terms of this legislative intent.
A Digital Signal Processing Approach to Multichannel Television Sound Decoding

The introduction of the Multichannel TV sound standard by television broadcasters offers a new opportunity for digital audio. The system described in this paper offers a complete implementation of the BTSC MTS standard using digital signal processing techniques.
High-resolution preparative gel electrophoresis: separation and recovery of functional messenger RNA species.

Abstract We report a simple method for the simultaneous separation and recovery of large quantities of discrete viral messenger RNA (mRNA) species from a total cytoplasmic extract. The method utilizes an electronic control device that directs continuous cycles of simultaneous electrophoresis and elution of RNA followed by automated collection and fractionation. This method of separation gives high recovery (80–90%) of intact RNA species. The RNAs isolated by this method are shown to be discrete as measured by analysis in analytical gels and to be functional as measured by their ability to direct synthesis of proteins in vitro . Analysis of products of the in vitro translation of the isolated RNA species indicates that it is possible to resolve RNAs with very similar mobilities by this method.
Relational Depth: Its relevance to a contemporary understanding of person-centered therapy / Beziehungstiefe: ihre Bedeutung für ein zeitgemässes Verständnis Personzentrierter Therapie / Profundidad relacional: Su importancia para una comprensión contemporánea/actual de la Terapia Centrada en la Persona / Profondeur relationnelle: Sa pertinence pour une compréhension contemporaine de la thérapie centrée sur la personne / Profundidade relacional: A sua relevância para uma compreensão contemporânea da terapia centrada na pessoa /

Abstract This paper examines the advantages relational depth offers the person-centered approach and, indeed, psychotherapy in general. Relational depth contemporizes and broadens our understanding of in-depth therapeutic relating by moving away from the limiting and divisive notion of “I” and focusing on the inclusive language and dynamics of “relationship.” I seek to explore the micro and macro effect of the concept in terms of: self-relationship, relationship with another, and societal relationship. The idea of relational depth does not move us away from the foundations of person-centered theory, but helps us to appreciate the essence of the approach more fully in our current context.
Postoperative Surveillance after Transanal Excision of Rectal Neoplasms

Local excision for selected rectal cancers remains controversial despite the clear advantage of minimal perioperative morbidity. Local recurrence remains a major problem and no clear algorithm has been reestablished for postoperative follow-up. A simple history and physical evaluation in the office setting may provide the physician a baseline for comparison over time. Routine radiological studies including endorectal ultrasonography, computerized tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, and carcinoembryonic antigen immunoscintigraphy to detect local recurrences are recommended by some. A modest benefit has been reported regarding survival for salvage surgical therapy after diagnosis of local recurrence.
Vascular factor in erectile failure among diabetics

Abstract Forty-seven impotent diabetics were evaluated by Doppler examination of penile arteries and by bulbocavernosus reflex latency and/or cystometrogram. Contrary to past suggestions, penile neuropathy in impotent diabetics was an infrequent finding. However, over 60 per cent of the patients did have vascular obstructive changes without penile neuropathy. This study suggests that obstruction of penile arteries is the primary factor responsible for impotence in diabetics.
Staging and treatment of clinically occult breast cancer

Five hundred fifty-seven biopsies were performed for clinically occult mammary lesions, detected by mammography as clustered calcifications or nonpalpable masses within the breast. One hundred seventy-five cancers were demonstrated within this group, including 106 invasive carcinomas, 10 microinvasive carcinomas, 45 in situ ductal carcinomas, and 14 lobular carcinomas in situ (lobular neoplasia). No patient with in situ or microinvasive carcinoma had evidence of axillary node metastases in 33 specimens studied. However, a disturbingly high proportion of those patients with invasive carcinomas, approximately 35%, had histologically confirmed axillary node metastases, despite the small size of the primary tumors. These observations suggest that the use of the term “minimal” cancer is misleading when applied to invasive carcinoma. Staging systems for breast cancer have been imprecise when referring to nonpalpable lesions. Cancers detected as clustered calcifications only or as areas of parenchymal distortion without an accompanying mass are properly considered as T-0 cancers, with a suggested T-0(m) to indicate that the lesion was detected by mammography. However, when the mammogram indicates the presence of a mass that proves to be malignant, although the clinical examination may have been negative, the cancer should be staged according to the size of the mass on the mammogram, with the notation that it was detected by mammography, e.g., T-1(m), T-2(m), etc. The incidence of axillary node metastases even in these so-called occult cancers is significant, so that recommendations for treatment for any invasive cancer, regardless of its size, must take these observations into account. Similarly, the incidence of multifocal sites of cancer within the breast, even in the noninvasive cancers encountered, must be remembered when treatment is suggested. Cancer 53:1379-1384, 1984.
Machine learning based posture estimation for a wireless canine machine interface

Effective training and accurate interpretation of canine behaviors are essential for dog welfare and to obtain the maximum benefits provided by working dogs. We are developing a canine body area network based interface to incorporate electronic sensing and computational behavior modeling into canine training, where computers will be able to provide real time feedback to trainers about canine behavior. In this study, we investigated the accuracy of machine learning algorithms in identifying canine posture through wireless inertial sensing with 3-axis accelerometers and 3-axis gyroscopes. Data was collected from two dogs performing a sequence of 5 postures (sit, stand, lie, stand on two legs, and eat off the ground). A two-stage cascade learning technique was used: one for differentiating samples of behaviors of interest from transitions between behaviors, and one for posture classification of the behaviors. The algorithms achieved high posture classification accuracies demonstrating potential to enable a real time canine computer interface.
Home care program in the management of rheumatoid arthritis.

Abstract A scheme for management of the patient with rheumatoid arthritis has been described. The conventional outpatient clinic structure has been modified to make available comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic facilities in one clinic setting at each patient visit. In addition, a home care program of physical therapy has been developed, with scheduled conferences for short and long-term treatment planning. Various modifications and adaptations of splinting and self-help devices for daily living have been illustrated. The entire program is designed to provide physical and psychological support for the patient and his family in accordance with the well recognized aims of rehabilitation —maximal function within the limits of the disability and maintenance of human dignity and self esteem.
High-SNR ultrasound-modulated optical tomography with intense acoustic bursts

We present a novel signal-enhancement method for ultrasound modulated optical tomography that can increase the amount of modulated light, compared to previous methods. By applying intense acoustic bursts, particle displacements of several microns are possible at a very local scale. A CCD camera captured the speckle pattern emerging from a laser-illuminated tissue phantom and differences in laser speckle contrast were measured between ultrasound on and off states. When CCD triggering was synchronized with burst initiation, ultrasound radiation force-induced displacements were detected with our technique, and resulting shear waves were shown to degrade image contrast and spatial resolution. Deleterious effects of shear waves were minimized by delaying CCD camera acquisition several ms until shear waves are adequately attenuated. Our system signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is sufficiently high to perform UOT scanning without signal averaging. Because of substantially improved SNR compared to previous techniques, the use of intense acoustic burst is a new promising method for ultrasound modulated optical tomography.
Symmetry between diffusion-limited coagulation and annihilation

In homogeneous systems, symmetry is found to exist between the hierarchies of kinetic equations of multipoint joint probability density functions of two diffusion-limited reactions A+A\ensuremath{\rightarrow}A (coagulation) and A+A\ensuremath{\rightarrow}inert (annihilation) by rescaling their multipoint joint density functions. Given one set of the joint density functions, this symmetry allows the solution of the others. A general class of diffusion-limited reactions, which are incomplete reactions between coagulation (with probability p) and annihilation (with probability 1-p), are found to share the same scaling symmetry.
Mechanisms of exercise limitation in HIV+ individuals.

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) is an important diagnostic tool for both clinical and research purposes in HIV positive (HIV + ) individuals. Important information can be obtained from the gas exchange responses that can elucidate heart, lung. peripheral vascular, pulmonary vascular, and muscle abnormalities in this population. A large percentage of these patients are deconditioned, respond well to exercise training, and have no intrinsic limitation to exercise. Results of a progressively increasing CPX can be used to: 1) design an exercise prescription for aerobic training in HIV + individuals; 2) identify and refer patients with subtle abnormalities of gas exchange for further diagnostic studies to exclude early infectious complications; and 3) evaluate the improvements in maximal oxygen uptake, lactic acidosis threshold, and gas exchange kinetics as result from an aerobic exercise training program. Gas exchange kinetic analysis of constant work rate tests can provide similar information in a nonmaximal, reproducible, readily obtainable format. Both progressively increasing and constant work rate CPX tests provide important information on the changes in oxygen flow from the environment to the exercising muscle that occur with aerobic exercise training. Finally, a case study involving the exercise prescription for HIV + individuals is reviewed as well as the risk of transmission of HIV during competitive sports competition events.
A Circularly Polarized Multiple Radiating Mode Microstrip Antenna for Satellite Receive Applications

A beam peak and null steering multiple radiating mode based microstrip patch antenna is presented for satellite receive applications operating at L1 Global Positioning System (GPS) band. Two collocated microstrip patch antennas were designed to produce TM 11 and TM 21 radiating modes. These orthogonal and circularly polarized radiation patterns were combined enabling full hemispherical steering of a single beam peak and null. Using theoretical analysis and full-wave simulation, the multimode aperture was designed to operate over a 25 MHz bandwidth centered at 1.575 GHz, which covers the L1 GPS band. Impedance and radiation pattern measurements of the passive antenna aperture were in close agreement with the simulated data. Next, this antenna was integrated with an active feed network allowing full hemispherical control over the beam null position and limited beam peak scan in ≈ 5 ° increments. Using a simple calibration scheme, the measured beam peak and null elevation angles were programmed to within <; 10° of the intended value based on simulation. Azimuthal positions were consistently offset by ≈ 20 ° from the simulated value, which could be resolved in the board layout by phase matching the transmission lines and test point locations. The antenna maintained high total efficiency >68% and low axial ratio 3 dB over all steering angles.
Micro-Doppler phenomenology of humans at UHF and Ku-band for biometric characterization

Extracting biometric characteristics using radar requires a detailed understanding of the RF scattering phenomenology associated with humans. The gross translational Doppler signals associated with walking are well documented in the literature. The work reported in this paper seeks to understand the micro-Doppler signals generated by human motion associated with ancillary activities such as breathing, heartbeat, and speech. We will describe procedures for anechoic chamber and outdoor measurements at UHF and Ku-band of humans engaged in a range of activities, such as lying, sitting, standing, speaking, and walking. In addition, we will analyze and discuss the various biometric signatures that we collected.
Relationships between physical and mental illness

Abstract A random sample of the general population of a southeastern county was studied to examine some relationships between reported physical illness and mental disorders. Results, obtained from epidemiologic data, indicate that lower socioeconomic status is probably the most fundamental factor associated with high risk for both physical and mental illness.
High-pressure Raman study on the decomposition of crystalline Cr(CO)6

Abstract High-pressure Raman spectra (300–2200 cm −1 ) of crystalline Cr(CO) 6 at room temperature for pressures up to 29.5 GPa have been recorded. A probable second-order phase transition is assigned at ∼4.1 GPa. Recorded Raman spectra started to vanish at 20.8 GPa and upon further increase in pressures resulted in complete vanishing at 29.5 GPa. The dν/d p values suggest the breakdown of Dewar–Chatt–Duncanson model for the first time in homoleptic mono carbonyls which has been discussed. Decomposition of Cr(CO) 6 leads to the formation of polymeric CO with characteristic sp 2 carbon and (OCO) units for the first time.
Thioredoxin/Glutaredoxin System of Chlorella CHLORELLA ADENOSINE 5′-PHOSPHOSULFATE SULFOTRANSFERASE CANNOT USE THIOREDOXIN OR GLUTAREDOXIN AS COFACTORS

Using the thioredoxin/glutaredoxin-dependent adenosine 3′-phosphate 5′-phosphosulfate reductase coupled assay system, the Chlorella thioredoxin/glutaredoxin system has been partially purified and characterized. A NADPH-thioredoxin reductase and two thioredoxin/glutaredoxin activities, designated as Chlorella thioredoxin/glutaredoxin protein I and II (CPI and CPII), were found in crude extracts of Chlorella. Similar to their counterparts from Escherichia coli, both CPI and CPII are heat-stable low molecular proteins of ≃14,000. While CPI (but not CPII) is a substrate for its homologous NADPH-thioredoxin reductase as well as for E. coli NADPH-thioredoxin reductase, CPII is better than CPI as a substrate for reduction by the glutathione system. Based on these properties, CPI and CPII may be classified as Chlorella thioredoxin and Chlorella glutaredoxin, respectively. The Chlorella NADPH-thioredoxin reductase (Mr = 72,000, with two 36,000-dalton subunits) resembles E. coli-thioredoxin reductase in size. Besides Chlorella thioredoxin, the Chlorella thioredoxin reductase will also use E. coli thioredoxin, but not glutaredoxin, as a substrate. Although a thioredoxin-like protein has been implicated in higher plant light-dependent sulfate reaction, neither Chlorella thioredoxin nor glutaredoxin can stimulate the thiol-dependent adenosine 5′-phosphosulfate-sulfotransferase reaction. Furthermore, Chlorella thioredoxin and glutaredoxin, in conjunction with an appropriate reductase system, cannot replace the thiol requirement of Chlorella adenosine 5′-phosphosulfate-sulfotransferase. The exact physiological roles and subcellular localization of the Chlorella thioredoxin and glutaredoxin systems remain to be determined.
Application of secondary ion and matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry for the quantitative analysis of biological molecules

This review primarily focuses on the current status of two solid-state mass spectrometric (MS) techniques, namely, static secondary-ion (SIMS) and matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization (MALDI) time-of-fight (TOF) maSs spectrometry, as applied to the quantification of biological materials. Although a number of articles have appeared in the literature for both SIMS and MALDI quantitative analysis, neither field has been extensively researched nor currently used in general practice. However, several results are very exciting and offer advantages over conventional methods. The abilities and limitations of MALDI and SIMS for quantitative analysis of biological molecules will be discussed at the fundamental and applied level. Use of an internal standard approach, development of instrumental protocols, and sample preparation will be examined in detail. Various examples demonstrating the feasibility of quantitative analysis by MALDI and SIMS, including quantification of in vivo and in vitro metabolism of drugs in real biological matrices, will be reviewed. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Multiobjective mathematical programming models for acid rain control

Abstract Although acid rain control is inherently multiobjective, previous optimization approaches have generally been single-objective, often acting to minimize aggregate abatement cost or emission reductions. Using an updated, least-cost deposition-constrained deterministic model as a basic framework, three multiobjective models are developed that consist of formulations which permit deviations about target deposition levels, the addition of constraints to effect measures of equity and models to enforce restrictions on aggregate emission reduction tonnage. The deposition deviation model shows that large abatement cost savings can be realized if the hard upper bound on maximum allowable deposition limit is preferentially relaxed. The socalled equity model develops strategies that attempt to balance within each state and province, the disparity between fractional emission and fractional deposition reductions. The aggregate emission reduction model shows some of the effects associated with the imposition of a common type of acid rain proposal. Our intent is to demonstrate that the incorporation of multiobjectivity into mathematical programming models for optimizing acid rain control constitutes an important step toward the identification of more representative, more useful and hopefully, scientifically and politically acceptable abatement strategies.
Complements of sphere and subspace arrangements

Abstract Let S be an l -dimensional sphere. A sphere arrangement B is a finite collection of spheres in S with each possible intersection being either a sphere or a single point. There is no assumption on the dimension of the elements of B . Let M ( B )= S −∪ B ∈ B B be the complement of B . If B is the one-point compactification of a subspace arrangement A , then M ( B )≅ M ( A ). A method of calculating the additive structure of H ∗( M ( A )) was given by Goresky and MacPherson using stratified Morse theory, proving that H n ( M ( A )) depends only on the set of all intersections of elements of A partially ordered by inclusion. In this paper, we present an alternate method of calculating H n ( M ( B )) for a sphere arrangement B , using the generalized Mayer-Vietoris spectral sequence and the nerve poset. We include an example of a subspace arrangement whose complement has torsion in its cohomology.
Different effects of acute and chronic ethanol on LPS-induced cytokine production and TLR4 receptor behavior in mouse peritoneal macrophages.

Both binge and chronic heavy drinking can adversely affect the immune system, but the effects seem to be at least partly dependent on the manner of ethanol (EtOH) consumption. Previous study results from several labs have clearly demonstrated that acute administration of EtOH interferes with innate immune responses. Specifically, EtOH has a general inhibitory effect on cytokine and chemokine production induced by various Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands, and it suppresses signaling on several levels along the TLR signaling pathways. However, it is not clear whether chronic exposure to ethanol has the same effects or not. The purpose of this study was to investigate the difference between the effect of chronic versus acute EtOH exposure on LPS-induced cytokine production and clustering of components of the TLR4 complex, which is an important early signaling event. Some groups of mice received acute EtOH by oral gavage using our binge drinking model and/or chronic administration of EtOH at 20% (w/v) in the ...
The Relationship Between Drug Use and Labor Supply for Young Men

This paper examines the relationship between young men's hours worked and their use of marijuana, alcohol, cigarettes, cocaine, and other drugs using cross-section data from the 1991 National Household Survey on Drug Abuse (NHSDA), a nationally representative survey of the U.S. noninstitutionalized population age 12 and over. Our results indicate that substance use has little effect on the number of hours worked by young men in the past month, with the exception that young men who smoked 1 to 3 marijuana joints in the last month worked 42 more hours than nonusers. To assess the robustness of our 1991 results, we re-estimated identical models using data from the 1992 NHSDA, an independent cross-section that was collected using the same methodology as the 1991 survey. Comparing the 1991 and 1992 results, the 1992 data also show that substance use has little relationship overall to the number of hours worked. However, in contrast to the 1991 results, the 1992 results show that smoking 1 to 3 marijuana joints in the last month is associated with 41 fewer hours worked than nonusers. This paper is the first study to assess the robustness of drug use–labor supply results on adjacent cross sections. Our results demonstrate the value of re-estimating the drug use–labor supply relationship.
Product Studies and Laser Flash Photolysis on Alkyl Radicals Containing Two Different β-Leaving Groups Are Consonant with the Formation of an Olefin Cation Radical

1-Bromo-2-methoxy-1-phenylpropan-2-yl (3) and 2-methoxy-1-phenyl-1-diphenylphosphatopropan-2-yl (4) were generated under continual photolysis from the respective PTOC precursors in a mixture of acetonitrile and methanol. The radicals undergo heterolytic fragmentation of the substituent in the β-position to generate the olefin cation radical (5). Z-2-Methoxy-1-phenylpropene (15) is the major product formed in the presence of 1,4-cyclohexadiene, and is believed to result from hydrogen atom transfer to the oxygen of the olefin cation radical, followed by deprotonation. Laser flash photolysis experiments indicate that reaction between 5 and 1,4-cyclohexadiene occurs with a rate constant of ∼6 × 105 M-1 s-1. 2,2-Dimethoxy-1-phenylpropane (18) is observed as a minor product. Laser flash photolysis experiments place an upper limit on methanol trapping of 5 at k <1 × 103 M-1 s-1 and do not provide any evidence for the formation of reactive intermediates other than 5. The use of two PTOC precursors containing diff...
Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumor: Current Therapy and Future Directions

Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors (ATRTs) are rare central nervous system tumors that comprise approximately 1-2% of all pediatric brain tumors; however, in patients less than three years of age this tumor accounts for up to 20% of cases. ATRT is characterized by loss of the long arm of chromosome 22 which results in loss of the hSNF5/INI-1 gene. INI1, a member of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, is important in maintenance of the mitotic spindle and cell cycle control. Overall survival in ATRT is poor with median survival around 17 months. Radiation is an effective component of therapy but is avoided in patients younger than three years of age due to long term neurocognitive sequelae. Most long term survivors undergo radiation therapy as a part of their upfront or salvage therapy, and there is a suggestion that sequencing the radiation earlier in therapy may improve outcome. There is no standard curative chemotherapeutic regimen, but anectdotal reports advocate the use of intensive therapy with alkylating agents, high dose methotrexate, or therapy that includes high dose chemotherapy with stem cell rescue. Due to the rarity of this tumor and the lack of randomized controlled trials it has been challenging to define optimal therapy and advance treatment. Recent laboratory investigations have identified aberrant function and/or regulation of cyclin D1, aurora kinase, and insulin-like growth factor pathways in ATRT. There has been significant interest in identifying and testing therapeutic agents that target these pathways.
Staphylococcus aureus Leukotoxin ED Targets the Chemokine Receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2 to Kill Leukocytes and Promote Infection

Summary The Staphylococcus aureus leukotoxin ED (LukED) is a pore-forming toxin required for the lethality associated with bacteremia in murine models. LukED targets the chemokine receptor CCR5 to kill T lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. LukED also kills CCR5-deficient cells, like neutrophils, suggesting the existence of additional cellular receptors. Here, we identify the chemokine receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2 as the targets of LukED on neutrophils. The LukE subunit binds neutrophils in a specific and saturable manner, and this interaction is inhibited by CXCL8, the high-affinity endogenous ligand of CXCR1 and CXCR2. LukED recognition of CXCR1 and CXCR2 promotes the killing of monocytes and neutrophils in vitro. LukED-mediated targeting of CXCR1 and CXCR2 + cells contributes to S. aureus pathogenesis and facilitates lethality in systemically infected mice. Thus, LukED is a versatile toxin that endows S. aureus with the ability to simultaneously disarm both innate and adaptive compartments of the host immune response.
Determinants of participation in treatment decision-making by older breast cancer patients.

Purpose. To identify the impact of patient age and patient-physician communication on older breast cancer patients' participation in treatment decision-making. Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of breast cancer patients aged 55 years or older (n= 222) in Los Angeles County. Patients received a breast cancer diagnosis between 1998 and 2000, and were interviewed on average 7.1 months (SD = 2.9) from diagnosis. All patient-physician communication variables were measured by patient self-report. Patient participation in treatment decision-making was defined by (1) questioning the surgeon about treatment, and (2) perception of self as the final decision-maker. Results. In multiple logistic regression analyses, surgeons' specific solicitation of patients' input about treatment preferences had positive relationships with both dimensions of patient participation in decision-making, that is, questioning the surgeon (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.05–4.16) and perceiving oneself to be the final decision-maker (OR = 2.38, CI = 1.08–5.28), controlling for patients' sociodemographic and case-mix characteristics and social support. Greater emotional support from surgeons was negatively associated with patient perception of being the final decision-maker. Physicians' information-giving and patient age were not associated with the participation measures. However, greater patient-perceived self-efficacy in patient—physician interactions was related to participation. Conclusion. In breast cancer patients aged 55 years and older, surgeons' solicitation of patients' treatment preferences was a powerful independent predictor of patient participation in treatment decision-making, as was patient's self-efficacy in interacting with physicians. Increasing both physicians' and patients' partnership-building skills might enhance the quality of treatment decision-making and treatment outcomes in this burgeoning patient population.
Correlates of heavy drinking and alcohol related problems among men and women in drug treatment programs

A series of analyses were conducted to explore if there were significant differences in heavy drinking and alcohol-related problems in clients admitted to different types of drug treatment programs and whether such differences, if found, could be attributed to variation in social characteristics, drug use behavior, drinking norms, drinking contexts, or in reasons for combining alcohol and drug use. Men and women (N = 246) in four types of publicly funded treatment programs were interviewed at intake regarding drinking and drug use patterns and related problems. The results of the study showed significant differences in drinking behavior and alcohol-related problems of clients in different treatment modalities. Men in a county jail substance abuse program exhibited the highest frequency of heavy drinking and highest rates of alcohol problems; clients of methadone programs reported the lowest rates and those in therapeutic communities described intermediate rates. A series of regression analyses showed that the only significant predictors of the frequency of heavier drinking and drunkenness were drinking context and reasons for combining alcohol and drug use. In addition, age (youthfulness) was associated with the frequency of getting drunk. The most powerful predictors of alcohol-related problems were the frequency of getting drunk and drinking to enhance the effects of other drugs. Heavy drinking and drinking to prevent getting sick from drugs were also significantly associated with drinking problems. The frequency of drug use (by specific type) and most social characteristics showed no direct association with drinking patterns or problems.
National suicide and homicide rates: Correlates versus predictors

The present study explored correlates of national suicide and homicide rates in a sample of industrialized nations. A large set of social variables was factor-analyzed and the factors were correlated with both suicide and homicide rates and with changes in these rates. Different social variables were found to correlate with rates of suicide than with rates of homicide, and different variables correlated with current rates of personal violence than with changes in these rates.
Impact, Trapping, and Accommodation of Hydroxyl Radical and Ozone at Aqueous Salt Aerosol Surfaces. A Molecular Dynamics Study

Collisions of the gaseous hydroxyl (OH) radical and ozone (O3) with the surfaces of sodium chloride or iodide solutions, as well as with the surface of neat water, were investigated by molecular dynamics simulations. The principal intent was to answer atmospherically relevant questions concerning the trapping and accommodation of the OH and O3 species at the surface and their uptake into the bulk solution. Although trapping is substantial for both species, OH adsorbs and absorbs significantly better than O3. Most of the trapped O3 molecules desorb from the surface within 50 ps, whereas a significant fraction of OH radicals remains at the interface for time intervals exceeding 100 ps. The aqueous surface has also an orientational effect on the OH species, favoring geometries with the H atom pointing toward the aqueous bulk. The effect of the dissolved salt on the trapping efficiency is minor; therefore, most likely, atomic ions solvated in aqueous aerosols do not act as strong scavengers of reactive gases ...
Scale dependence of tracer microstructure: PDFs, intermittency and the dissipation scale

Thestatisticsoftracervariabilityonsmallscales (< 200 km) is investigated using high resolution aircraft measurements of ozone in the northern winter middle/high latitudes. Conditioning based on potential temperature is used to isolate the statistics of lamentation on isentropic surfacesfromspuriousvariabilityduetocross-isentropicmo- tion of the platform. The distribution of isentropic incre- ments r in the tracer eld across a horizontal scale r have non-Gaussian tails and are consistent with stretched exponential functions of the form P(r)exp(-ajrj p ), where a is a scale-dependent parameter and the exponent p increases overall with r. A scale break in the second order structure function suggests a dissipation scale rd 20 km during northern winter 91-92, but the scale break is closer to 100 km during northern winter 88-89. Possible reasons for this are discussed.
Explaining UK house price inflation 1971–89

An econometric analysis of UK house price inflation and changes in residential construction is presented for the period 1971–89, paying particular attention to the supply side of the housing market. The results of this analysis are used to examine the contributions of the various factors to the nominal rate of house price inflation. While the results confirm the importance of real disposable income in determining house prices, they indicate that supply variables may be of greater importance than interest rates in this respect. There are close similarities between the three housing booms of the 1970s and 1980s.
Ventilatory responses of dystrophic and control hamsters to naloxone

In this study we determined if endogenous opioid peptides may contribute to the depression of ventilation seen in dystrophic hamsters. Ventilation of control and dystrophic awake hamsters was determined prior to either naloxone (1 mg/kg) or saline administration and then 5, 15 and 30 minutes postinjection. Subsequently, animals were exposed to a hypercapnic challenge (7% CO2 in O2). Control hamsters increased ventilation significantly (p less than 0.01) after naloxone compared to saline treatment. In contrast, dystrophic hamsters showed no difference in ventilation when they received either naloxone or saline. Both groups increased ventilation significantly (p less than 0.05) after hypercapnic challenge, whether they had received naloxone or saline. Although dystrophic hamsters can respond to a ventilatory stimulant (CO2), naloxone did not increase ventilation, possibly indicating that endogenous opioids are not responsible for their depressed ventilation.
Organized Civil Society: A Cross-National Evaluation of Non-Governmental Organization Density on Governmental Corruption

Using a globally representative sample of nations between 1997 and 2004, I demonstrate that the presence of an active civil society works to decrease governmental corruption. The presence of a robust civil society holds governments accountable, informs its citizens, and provides a suitable outlet for people to voice their concerns and be heard. I analyze data using a pooled time-series, cross-sectional (TSCS) analysis. Results show that civil society strength has a significant impact on governmental corruption. These results remain significant when accounting for economic development, political institutions, and cultural-geographic controls. By emphasizing the role organized civil society plays in a broad sample of nations, this study refines our understanding of the role that non-state actors assume in the health and maintenance of their own societies. Consequently, this project demonstrates the importance of including the role of civil society in future studies of governmental corruption.
Liquid chromatography-electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry method for the rapid identification of citrus limonoid glucosides in citrus juices and extracts

A rapid and selective liquid chromatography–electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (LC–ESI-MS) method to screen citrus samples for limonoid glucosides and estimate their relative concentrations has been developed. This method utilises a phenyl stationary phase, whereas previous methods have relied on C-18. Samples may be analysed directly without treatment other than dilution. Peak areas from the extracted deprotonated molecular ion mass signals for individual limonoid glucosides were normalised against the sum of the areas to establish their relative concentrations. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of various juice, extracts, and liquid samples of partially purified limonoid glucosides.
A triggering system for scanning processes in long-term memory

Two experiments were conducted to investigate the scanning processes in long-term memory. The S was asked to sort a list of categorized words into their proper categories. Upon completion of each sorting, a recall test was administered. The S repeated this cycle of sorting and recall until he reached the criterion of two perfect recalls. Reaction time (RT) for identifying the old words and different types of new words were taken after an insertion of a neutral practice task. The RTs for identifying the old words described a step function when they were plotted against the output order of the word on the criterial free recall trial. Incorporating both parallel and successive processes, a simulation model for the identification task was proposed to account for this observed step function. The necessity of a retrieval process in recognition was also evidenced.
A convenient technique for the collection of ultra-thin serial sections

Abstract A relatively easy method for collecting and handling ultra-thin serial sections is described in which a ribbon of sections is picked up on a single slot specimen grid and placed on a carbon-coated film nf formvar previously attached to a plastic ring. The specimen grid, together with the film now supporting the sections, is detached from the ring so that it can then be inserted into the microscope.
Palmitoylation of Protease-activated Receptor-1 Regulates Adaptor Protein Complex-2 and -3 Interaction with Tyrosine-based Motifs and Endocytic Sorting

Protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR1) is a G protein-coupled receptor for the coagulant protease thrombin. Thrombin binds to and cleaves the N terminus of PAR1, generating a new N terminus that functions as a tethered ligand that cannot diffuse away. In addition to rapid desensitization, PAR1 trafficking is critical for the regulation of cellular responses. PAR1 displays constitutive and agonist-induced internalization. Constitutive internalization of unactivated PAR1 is mediated by the clathrin adaptor protein complex-2 (AP-2), which binds to a distal tyrosine-based motif localized within the C-terminal tail (C-tail) domain. Once internalized, PAR1 is sorted from endosomes to lysosomes via AP-3 interaction with a second C-tail tyrosine motif proximal to the transmembrane domain. However, the regulatory processes that control adaptor protein recognition of PAR1 C-tail tyrosine-based motifs are not known. Here, we report that palmitoylation of PAR1 is critical for regulating proper utilization of tyrosine-based motifs and endocytic sorting. We show that PAR1 is basally palmitoylated at highly conserved C-tail cysteines. A palmitoylation-deficient PAR1 mutant is competent to signal and exhibits a marked increase in constitutive internalization and lysosomal degradation compared with wild type receptor. Intriguingly, enhanced constitutive internalization of PAR1 is mediated by AP-2 and requires the proximal tyrosine-based motif rather than the distal tyrosine motif used by wild type receptor. Moreover, palmitoylation-deficient PAR1 displays increased degradation that is mediated by AP-3. These findings suggest that palmitoylation of PAR1 regulates appropriate utilization of tyrosine-based motifs by adaptor proteins and endocytic trafficking, processes that are critical for maintaining appropriate expression of PAR1 at the cell surface.
Exploring the Moral Complexity of School Choice: Philosophical Frameworks and Contributions.

In this essay, I describe some of the methodological dimensions of my ongoing research into how parents choose schools. I particularly focus on how philosophical frameworks and analytical strategies have shaped the empirical portion of my research. My goal, in this essay, is to trace and explore the ways in which philosophy of education—as a methodological orientation—may enable researchers to be attentive to the normative dimensions of human experience. In addition, I will argue that philosophically informed empirical research offers new possibilities for making normative arguments that are closely connected to the non-ideal, complex ground of actual experience.
A CSP solution to multi-camera surveillance and target tracking

Surveillance is an essential part of any security operation, with cameras playing an important role. Often these cameras are controlled by a single individual, but this can lead to inefficient surveillance that leaves areas uncovered and misses targets. We propose a constraint satisfaction problem (CSP) solution to surveilling an area that maximizes the area seen in a region of interest (ROI), minimizes the time individual cells in the ROI goes unseen, and prioritizes targets for tracking. Cells in the ROI are weighted based on the time since they were last seen and whether or not a target is predicted to be in the cell. A virtual environment with cameras and targets is surveilled based on various parameters affecting camera actions. Several metrics are used to measure the performance of each set of parameters, including cell time unseen, average linear uncovered length (ALUL), and time a target is seen with results compared to another surveillance algorithm. The CSP was able to view all cells while greatly increasing the target tracking ability of rarely viewed targets at the cost of slightly fewer viewing steps for the more often viewed targets.
Estimation of unreimbursed patient education costs at a large group practice.

AbstractIntroduction:A search of the literature on the cost of patient education found that provider education time per patient per day was rarely reported and usually not derivable from published reports. Costs of continuing education needed by health professionals to support patient education also
American Association Of Critical-Care Nurses’ National Survey of Facilities and Units Providing Critical Care

• BACKGROUND Little information is available nationally about critical care units and nurses. What is known about nurses in hospitals is generally not broken down among all the specialties. • OBJECTIVES To describe issues of workforce, compensation, and care specific to critical care units and nurses who work in them. • METHODS The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses conducted a survey of randomly selected facilities with critical care units in the United States. Facilities were solicited via e-mail to respond to a survey on the World Wide Web and provide information on operations, evaluations, nursing staff reimbursement and incentives, staffing, and quality indicators. Responding facilities also provided contact information for units in the facilities. Those units were surveyed about operations, acuity systems, staffing, policies on visitation and end-of-life care, administrative structure, documentation, certification, professional advancement, vacancy/floating, staff satisfaction, orientation, association membership, wages, advanced practice nursing, and quality indicators. • RESULTS The initial response rate (120 of 658 eligible facilities) was 18.2%, and 300 of 576 solicited units nominated by the facilities responded, yielding a 52.1% response rate for the second phase. • CONCLUSIONS These survey data define the scope and intensity of services offered and provide more specific figures about staffing issues and unit practices than has been accessible before. Healthcare providers may use this information for benchmarking purposes, especially for instances in which the tables provide data for each particular type of critical care unit. (American Journal of Critical Care. 2006;15:13-28)