cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
EXCHANGE OF WORLDWIDE SAFETY SURVEILLANCE DATA VIA AN INTERNATIONAL COMPUTER DATABASE

International exchange of data via computer-to-computer linkage is illustrated by a worldwide safety surveillance database. Data from postmarketing spontaneous reports is entered into a central database from which reports for regulatory authorities as well as reports for internal usage are generated. The database also provides certain tnanagement functions such as prompting for follow-up of cases and tracking of reports due to regulatory authorities. Entry of data may be accomplished by either direct, menu-driven screen entry of by batch entry using microcomputers.
A comparison of taxonomic distinctness versus richness as criteria for setting conservation priorities for North American birds

In choosing sites for a conservation reserve network, representation of the greatest number of species in the sites selected is a common objective. This approach implicitly assumes that all species have equal conservation value. An alternative objective is to represent the greatest genetic diversity in selected sites. This approach gives greater weight to species that are more genetically distinct. Such species tend to contain more unique genetic material, which would be lost if such species became extinct. In this paper, we calculate a diversity measure for a given set of species based on the branch length of the phylogenetic tree for the set. We use genetic distances between bird species in 147 genera based on the results of DNA hybridization research. Distribution information for bird species in the US comes from the Breeding Bird Survey. We compare resulting conservation reserve networks when the objective is the number of genera represented versus the diversity of genera represented. We find that the different objectives produce notably similar results.
Universal algorithms: Building a case for pointwise convergence

We consider algorithms for prediction, compression and entropy estimation in a universal setup. In each case, we estimate some function of an unknown distribution p over the set of natural numbers, using only n observations generated i.i.d. from p. While p is unknown, it belongs to a known collection P of possible models. When the supports of distributions in P are uniformly bounded, consistent algorithms exist for each of the problems. Namely, the convergence of the estimate to the true value can be bounded by a function depending only on the sample size, n, and not on the underlying distribution p. However, when the supports of distributions in P are not uniformly bounded, a more natural approach involves algorithms that are pointwise consistent, namely, the convergence to the true value is at a rate that depends on both n and the underlying (unknown) distribution p. The obvious practical difficulty with pointwise convergence is that the asymptotic consistency of the algorithm may indicate nothing about the performance of the algorithm for any fixed sample size, since the underlying distribution is unknown. In this paper, we first note that for many complex model classes P, we can still circumvent the above practical difficulty with pointwise convergence. Secondly, we take here a preliminary step towards characterizing a broad framework establishing the hierarchy of difficulty of problems involving pointwise convergence. We look for connections among the following problems which we define for a pointwise convergence scenario: (i) predicting good upper bounds on the next unseen sample, (ii) weak universal compression, and (iii) entropy estimation. We construct counter-examples to show that no two properties above imply the third.
A continuously pumped ultra-high vacuum-sorption system for the preparation of highly ordered single-crystal metal foils

A simple sorption-type ultra-high vacuum system has been devised in which thin metal foils can be prepared quickly, with perfection and measurable reproducibility. Ultimate vacuum of 3 × 10-10 torr had been obtained using liquid nitrogen around the sorption, and evaporation chambers. Ultimate vacuum of 3 × 10-9 torr has been routine prior to evaporation of gold, silver, copper, and nickel foils which ranged in thickness from 500-2000 A. High purity single crystal silver foils have been repeatedly prepared in this system which are suitable for direct analysis of deformations by transmission electron microscopy. A comparison is made between the order and quality of these ultra-high vacuum prepared foils with foils prepared using commercially available high vacuum equipment.
Migration and Elderly Africans in the United States

Although population movements and migration across national borders have occurred throughout human history, the accelerated pace of human migration from Africa to the United States in recent decades is unprecedented. A distinct phenomenon of this trend is that in addition to young African immigrants, an increasing number of elderly Africans are joining the ranks of immigrants in the United States. This article explores prevailing factors that may explain migration among elderly Africans in late adult life. The article addresses the unique experience of African-born elders as they age in the United States. Implications for policy and practice are also discussed.
Surgical Treatment of Traumatic Rupture of the Normal Aortic Valve

Abstract The histories of 2 patients who had successful repair of traumatic injury to the aortic valve are reported, and the literature is reviewed. Various types of injury cause this lesion, but violent compression of the chest with high intrathoracic pressure appears to be a common feature. Valvular injuries include avulsion of commissural attachments and tears of the leaflets. Patients present with chest pain and severe congestive heart failure, and an unusually musical murmur of aortic insufficiency is sometimes heard. Attempts at valvuloplasty have not been uniformly successful, and prosthetic valve replacement is recommended.
Breast augmentation : choosing the optimal incision, implant, and pocket plane

A retrospective study of 220 patients was performed to review surgical design in breast augmentation. Three specific issues were studied: incision site, implant variables, and pocket plane selection. The influence of these three factors on aesthetic results in both primary and secondary cases was the focus of the analysis. No attempt was made to address long-term issues such as capsular contracture or saline implant deflation rates. In 77 primary augmentation patients and 80 unilateral augmentations for symmetry in breast reconstruction, there were the following untoward results: 11 revisions for unilateral malposition, change to a different implant shape, or change to a larger implant size; four deflations of saline implants requiring replacement; and four conversions of saline to silicone gel implants. In 63 secondary cases, there were two hematomas and two infections requiring implant removal and subsequent replacement. Operative technique in breast augmentation is described, as are recommendations for each of the options associated with the three variables studied.
Use of alternative strategies by brain-damaged cats

Adult cats with bilateral lesions of insular-temporal cortex were severely impaired in performing a temporal pattern discrimination. Animals prepared with such lesions at 6, 5, or 4 months of age showed progressively smaller deficits. These data initially appear to represent the standard age-related “recovery of function” phenomenon. However, a comparison of preoperative performance in cats of different ages revealed that the younger cats actually learn faster than the older ones. The data are interpreted as suggesting that some instances of age-related recovery of function following cortical damage may be due to the early-lesioned animals adopting problem solving strategies other than those utilized by adult animals and other than those intended by the experimenter.
A technique for determining potassium release from a slow‐release fertilizer 1

Abstract A new technique was utilized to determine the rate of potassium release from a slow‐release fertilizer. The technique is based on diffusion of the potassium ion into a saturated capillary mat followed by extraction and analysis of the solution pressed from the capillary mat. The technique demonstrated that K was released at a rate similar to that reported by another researcher. The major advantage of this technique is the simple readily available equipment needed for solution extraction.
An elementary approximation for exp(x2)erfc x

Abstract We develop a simple method for computing exp(x2)erfc x, with a maximum relative error
On a generalized stein estimator of regression coefficients

This paper studies a generalized Stein estimator of regression coefficients. The small disturbance approximations for the bias and mean square error matrix of the estimator are derived and a necessary and sufficient condition is obtained for the estimator to dominate the ordinary least squares estimator under the mean square error criterion.
The 2-deoxyglucose test as a supplement to fasting for detection of childhood hypoglycemia

The acute response to simulated hypoglycemia induced by 2-deoxyglucose (2DG) was compared with the prolonged fasting test as a possible screening test for detection of childhood hypoglycemia. Ten children, ages 2-9 yr, without a documented history of hypoglycemia were classified retrospectively as reference subjects. While fasting, their plasma glucose decreased to an average of 50 mg/dl (range, 30-74) between 28-36 h. After infusion of 2DG, 50 mg/kg IV over 30 min, their plasma glucose increased by an average of 35 mg/dl (range, 19-56) between 60-120 min. The half-life of plasma 2DG was 48 min. Twenty-three other children in the same age range had an abnormal response to one or both of these tests. Thirteen of these children became definitely hypoglycemic while fasting (glucose less than 30 mg/dl) and also failed to increase their plasma glucose by more than 10 mg/dl after 2DG. Five children had plasma glucose values between 30-40 mg/dl during the first 24 h of fasting that were associated with a change in mental status but responded to 2DG with an increase in plasma glucose. The remaining five subjects had an apparently normal response to fasting but did not respond to 2DG; two of these had documented spontaneous hypoglycemia. No cases of documented hypoglycemia were undetected by either test. It is concluded that the 2DG test is a short safe supplement to fasting which is equally effective as the prolonged fasting test in detecting hypoglycemia. Neither test alone is completely reliable, but the combination is complementary.
The impact of stool and gas volume on intrafraction prostate motion in patients undergoing radiotherapy with daily endorectal balloon

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to quantify the impact of rectal stool/gas volumes on intrafraction prostate motion for patients undergoing prostate radiotherapy with daily endorectal balloon (ERB). Methods Total and anterior stool/gas rectal volumes were quantified in 30 patients treated with daily ERB. Real-time intrafraction prostate motion from 494 treatment sessions, at most 6min in length, was evaluated using Calypso® tracking system. Results The deviation of prostate intrafraction motion distribution was a function of stool/gas volume, especially when stool/gas is located in the anterior part of the rectum. Compared to patients with small anterior stool/gas volumes ( 3 ), those with large volume (10–60cm 3 ) had a twofold increase in 3D prostate motion and interquartile data range within the 6th minute of treatment time. The 10% of the overall CBCT session where large anterior rectal volumes were observed demonstrated larger percentage of time at displacement greater than our proposed internal margin 3mm. Conclusion Volume and location of stool/gas can directly impact the ERB's intrafraction immobilization ability. Although our patient preparation protocol and the 100cm 3 daily ERB effectively stabilized prostate motion for 90% of the fractions, a larger-sized ERB may improve prostate fixation for patients with greater and/or variable daily rectal volume.
Inositol induces a profound alteration in the pattern and rate of synthesis and turnover of membrane lipids in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

The addition of inositol to actively growing yeast cultures causes a rapid increase in the rate of synthesis of phosphatidylinositol and, simultaneously, triggers changes in the expression of hundreds of genes. We now demonstrate that the addition of inositol to yeast cells growing in the presence of choline leads to a dramatic reprogramming of cellular lipid synthesis and turnover. The response to inositol includes a 5-6-fold increase in cellular phosphatidylinositol content within a period of 30 min. The increase in phosphatidylinositol content appears to be dependent upon fatty acid synthesis. Phosphatidylcholine turnover increased rapidly following inositol addition, a response that requires the participation of Nte1p, an endoplasmic reticulum-localized phospholipase B. Mass spectrometry revealed that the acyl species composition of phosphatidylinositol is relatively constant regardless of supplementation with inositol or choline, whereas phosphatidylcholine acyl species composition is influenced by both inositol and choline. In medium containing inositol, but lacking choline, high levels of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine were detected. Within 60 min following the addition of inositol, dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine levels had decreased from ∼40% of total phosphatidylcholine to a basal level of less than 5%. nte1Δ cells grown in the absence of inositol and in the presence of choline exhibited lower levels of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine than wild type cells grown under these same conditions, but these levels remained largely constant after the addition of inositol. These results are discussed in relationship to transcriptional regulation known to be linked to lipid metabolism in yeast.
Structure of the orthoclase (001)- and (010)-water interfaces by high-resolution X-ray reflectivity

High-resolution in situ X-ray specular reflectivity was used to measure the structures of orthoclase (001) and (010) cleavage surfaces in contact with deionized water at 25°C. X-ray reflectivity data demonstrate a high degree of structural similarity between these two orthoclase-water interfaces. Both interfacial structures include cleavage along the plane of minimal bond breakage resulting in surfaces terminated by non-bridging oxygens; structured water within 5 A of the orthoclase surface (consisting of adsorbed species at the surface and layered water above the surface), with a featureless water profile beyond 5 A; substitution of outermost K+ ions by an oxygen containing species (presumably H3O+); and small structural displacements of the near surface atoms. The interfacial water structure, in comparison with recent results for other mineral-water interfaces, is intermediate between the minimal structure found at calcite-, barite-, and quartz-water interfaces and the more extensive structure found at the muscovite-water interface.
Instrumental and expressive socialization: a false dichotomy

Barry, Bacon, and Child's (1957) cross-cultural study of sex differences in childhood socialization has been influential in bolstering the instrumental—expressive sex-role dichotomy. We critique their method of data analysis and factor analyze their data. Expressive and instrumental socialization are found to be separate factors or dimensions, rather than opposite ends of a single dichotomy. Additionally, no factor representing sex differences in socialization emerges, but rather each factor tends to contain substantively similar emphases in the training of both boys and girls.
Enhancement of spinosad toxicity to Cydia pomonella neonates by monosodium glutamate receptor agonist

Recently, we reported that monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a feeding stimulant and an enhancer of pesticide toxicity against neonates of the codling moth. Herein, we show that a MSG alternative,trans-1-aminocyclobutane-1,3-dicarboxylic acid (trans-ACBD), alone or in the presence of spinosad (Success®), increases leaf tissue consumption by codling moth neonates. In contrast to MSG,trans-ACBD maintains its feeding stimulatory properties in the field even after 20 mm of simulated rain, and effectively increases spinosad efficacy in both laboratory and field experiments.
Advances in the treatment of precocious puberty.

Precocious puberty refers to a heterogenous group of childhood disorders that are characterised by the appearance of secondary sexual development at an abnormally early age; historically defined as prior to age eight years in girls and prior to age nine in boys [1]. Although not universally accepted, recent data suggests that a significant percentage of normal girls may be experiencing pubertal development prior to age eight [2], prompting re-evaluation of tradition guidelines defining the typical lower end of the age range for the onset of puberty in girls. Regardless of the designation of ‘normal’, the exact physical manifestations in cases of pathological precocious puberty depend on the underlying pathophysiology of the condition and on which sex steroids are being produced. Likewise, therapeutic intervention, when indicated, is dictated by the origin of the excessive androgens and/or oestrogens and is based on an understanding of the genesis and natural history of the different forms of precocious puberty. In some instances, it is possible to suppress or block hormone production at its source, whereas in other conditions treatment is directed toward attenuating the physiological effects of sex steroid exposure on the growing child. Historically, the pharmacological treatment of precocious puberty has been of variable success and is highly dependent on the particular diagnosis present. While extremely effective and safe therapies currently exist for some types of precocious puberty, there are other pathological entities leading to abnormal pubertal development for which available treatments have yielded mixed results, at best. However, several new agents are currently on the horizon that have the potential to significantly improve the management of intractable forms of precocious puberty and further refine our largely successful treatments of other forms. This review will briefly summarise accomplishments to date in pharmacological treatments for the different subtypes of precocious puberty and will focus on promising new drugs under investigation and in development. Rather than provide an exhaustive list of novel compounds, we will highlight the general drug classes of interest and discuss specific examples from each.
High-resolution elemental profiles of the silicon dioxide∕4H-silicon carbide interface

High-resolution elemental profiles were obtained from SiO2(N)∕4H‐SiC structures by spatially resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) performed in the scanning transmission electron microscopy mode. The results show that following annealing in NO, N was exclusively incorporated within ∼1nm of the SiO2(N)∕4H‐SiC interface. Mean interfacial nitrogen areal densities measured by EELS were ∼(1.0±0.2)×1015cm−2 in carbon-face samples and (0.35±0.13)×1015cm−2 in Si-face samples; these results are consistent with nuclear reaction analysis measurements. Some of the interface regions in the C-face samples also showed excess carbon that was not removed by the NO annealing process, in contrast with previous results on Si-face samples.
Mechanisms of antibody-mediated protection against lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infection: mother-to-baby transfer of humoral protection.

Abstract The role of antiviral antibodies in resistance to lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infection was explored. Immune serum and monoclonal antibodies prevented fatal T-cell-mediated immunopathology following acute LCMV infections. In addition, 10- and 14-day-old mice that received maternally derived anti-LCMV antibodies through nursing were protected from an otherwise lethal LCMV challenge. Detailed investigation of the mechanism(s) by which these antiviral antibodies provided was carried out by using anti-LCMV monoclonal antibodies. Protection correlated directly with the ability of the antibodies to reduce viral titers in the tissues of conventional (K. E. Wright and M. J. Buchmeier, J. Virol. 65:3001-3006, 1991) and nude mice. However, this reduction was not simply a reflection of virus neutralizing activity, since not all antibodies which neutralized in vitro were protective. A correlation was also found between immunoglobulin isotype and protection: all of the protective antibodies were immunoglobulin G2a (IgG2a), while IgG1 antibodies mapping to the same epitopes were not. Protection appeared to be associated with events controlled by the Fc region. Functional F(ab')2 fragments which retained in vitro neutralizing activity were not protective in vivo. Furthermore, this Fc-associated function was not related to complement-mediated cell lysis, since C5-deficient mouse strains were also protected. These results suggest a role for antibody in protection from arenavirus infections and indicate that a distinct immunoglobulin subclass, IgG2a, may be essential for this protection.
Assessment and Psychological Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Older Adults

Knowledge regarding the assessment and treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder in older adults continues to be limited in both psychological research and practice. This article provides a summary of this literature. In particular, the psychometric properties of several posttraumatic stress disorder assessment measures in their use with older individuals are reviewed. Although the evidence base on effective treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder in older adults is virtually nonexistent, this article highlights the innovative clinical endeavors that have been conducted in this regard. Explicit suggestions for best practices are made.
Feedback control to delay or advance linear loss of stability in planar Poiseuille flow

By using linear stability theory, we demonstrate theoretically that the critical Reynolds number for the loss of stability of planar Poiseuille flow can be significantly increased or decreased through the use of feedback control strategies which enhance or suppress disturbance dissipating mechanisms in the flow. The controller studied here consists of closely packed, wall mounted, shear stress sensors and thermoelectric actuators. The sensors detect flow instabilities and direct the actuators to alter the fluid’s viscosity by modulating the adjacent wall temperature in such a way as to suppress or enhance flow instabilities. Results are presented for water and air flows.
A neural systems theory of schizophrenia and tardive dyskinesia

Some systems ideas applied to individual persons are used to try to explain symptoms of schizophrenia and a syndrome of uncontrolled fragments of movement which sometimes occurs as a side effect of chronic, antipsychotic drug therapy. The behavior of normal organisms may be conceptualized in three echelons of control, with each successively higher echelon organizing, by selective disinhibition, semiautonomous, spontaneous fragments of activity which comprise the next lower echelon. It is hypothesized that schizophrenia involves a deficiency of inhibition by the frontal cortex, first echelon, on the corpus striatum, second echelon. This results first in insufficiently integrated fragments of behavior, and second in premature associative linkages among active elements. First echelon control develops as a normal person matures and gradually loses some of the playful activities of childhood. It is hypothesized that by disrupting certain aspects of activity in the corpus striatum, neuroleptic drugs reduce schizophrenic symptoms but also reduce the capacity of the second echelon to inhibit and integrate the smaller behavioral fragments wired into lower parts of the brain, third echelon. This results in uncontrolled movements. Though many researchers already favor the hypothesis that neuroleptic drugs act on the corpus striatum, the broader theory presented here is new and depends in large part on general living systems considerations. Emphasis is on conceptual decomposition of the integrated behavior of a whole organism into less complex subsystems. Individually, these have neither too much nor too little complexity to yield a plausible model. Some experimental predictions and predictions about possible therapies are made from the theory.
Addressing Gender Inequities in Collegiate Sport: Examining Female Leadership Representation Within NCAA Sport Governance

The purpose of this study was to examine issues related to female representation within the governance structure of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). A descriptive statistics approach through the lens of feminism was taken in collecting and analyzing data related to the gender representation of staff leadership positions within the NCAA national office and gender representation within the NCAA Division I, II, and III governance structure. This was coupled with a review of NCAA programming initiatives related to leadership opportunities. Although a number of strategies are being implemented by the NCAA to provide greater access and leadership opportunities for women (e.g., diversity initiatives, Senior Woman Administrator legislation, and guaranteed representation on committees), women continue to be underrepresented within NCAA governance substructures and upper leadership levels within the NCAA national office. In addition, nongender neutral sport governance policies still exist that impede the progress of achieving gender equality.
Microtus montanus (Montane vole)

Several pairs of autosomes are easy to recognize. Identification of the sex chromosomes is unequivocal.
Variation in Meiotic Recombination Frequencies Between Allelic Transgenes Inserted at Different Sites in the Drosophila melanogaster Genome

Meiotic crossovers are distributed nonrandomly across the genome. Classic studies in Drosophila suggest that the position of a gene along a chromosome arm can affect the outcome of the recombination process, with proximity to the centromere being associated with lower crossing over. To examine this phenomenon molecularly, we developed an assay that measures meiotic crossovers and noncrossover gene conversions between allelic transgenes inserted into different genomic positions. To facilitate collecting a large number of virgin females, we developed a useful genetic system that kills males and undesired classes of females. We found that the recombination frequency at a site in the middle of the X chromosome, where crossovers are normally frequent, was similar to the frequency at the centromere-proximal end of the euchromatin, where crossovers are normally infrequent. In contrast, we recovered no recombinants—crossovers or noncrossovers—at a site on chromosome 4 and at a site toward the distal end of the X chromosome. These results suggest that local sequence or chromatin features have a stronger impact on recombination rates in this transgene assay than position along the chromosome arm.
No Country for Leftists? Clientelist Continuity and the 2006 Vote in the Brazilian Northeast

Building upon recent studies of the electoral effects of social policy and President Lula da Silva’s coattails in the 2006 Brazilian elections, this article explains the performance of leftist and conservative candidates in elections for governor during that cycle in the Northeast region. The study assesses three systemic factors: the conditional cash transfer program, Bolsa Familia , economic growth, and Lula’s coattails on support for right-wing incumbents and left-wing oppositions in the states of Bahia, Maranhao, and Ceara. Based on the analysis of an original municipal-level dataset and a survey of partisan elites, the findings underscore the importance of urbanbased party building strategies across the three states and patterns of elite alliances specific to each state. Alliances made in the capitals coupled with divided conservative establishments, facilitated leftist victories in the examined states. At the same time, variations in alliance patterns and leftist party development across the three states reveal that conservative clientele networks remain vibrant bases of right-wing support, especially in the interior, and despite either social policy or Lula’s coattails.
Logos: a constraint-directed reasoning shell for operations management

A description is given of the Logos reasoning shell, an expert system that performs reactive scheduling, i.e. reschedules operations in the context of new information. Logos' constraint system supports the use of temporal constraints as well as the need to add and retract constraints incrementally. Logos' problem-solving approach is discussed and constraint-based reasoning and dynamic modeling, both of which are used by Logos, are examined. Some current applications are described. >
Squamous cell carcinoma with aggressive subclinical extension: 5-year retrospective review of diagnostic predictors.

Background Squamous cell carcinoma with aggressive subclinical extension (SCC-ASE) is a tumor whose extensive spread becomes revealed during surgery or pathologic review, particularly during Mohs micrographic surgery. Limited clinical awareness of these lesions may result in unanticipated longer surgical times and larger postoperative defects. SCC-ASE–associated clinical risk factors are not well studied. Objective We sought to evaluate the incidence of and risk factors associated with SCC-ASE. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of SCC treated with Mohs micrographic surgery between 2007 and 2012 at a single academic surgical center. SCC-ASE was defined as a lesion requiring at least 3 Mohs stages with a final surgical margin of ≥1 cm. Results Of 954 cases studied, 31% were SCC-ASE. In multivariable analysis, sex ( P = .001), history of previous nonmelanoma skin cancer ( P P = .004 and P P Limitations Single academic center selection bias, not-controlled for sun exposure differences, no information on medication regimens of solid organ transplant patients, and a small sample size are all limitations of our study. Conclusion Easily attainable demographic factors, especially immunosuppressed status and cigarette use, can help predict the occurrence of SCC-ASE and thereby optimize surgical planning and patient preparedness.
On transfer function and power consumption transient response

This paper proposes to use time series analysis techniques to model both average and cycle-by-cycle moving average power consumption behavior of electronic systems. The power model is in the form of first and/or second order transfer functions that represent the mapping from primary input/output activities to power consumption profile over time. Such an approach has power estimation applications in both software simulation and hardware implementation of power monitor circuit.
Cancer Prevention and Management Through Exercise and Weight Control

McTiernan A, ed. Boca Raton, FL 33487, CRC Press, 2006, hardcover, 608 pp, illus, ISBN: 1-57444-907-9, $139.95. This book is the fifth in a series of titles that address various topics in nutrition and disease prevention. This multi-authored book is a collection of 35 chapters organized into 8 sections, each covering different aspects of the complex relationships among body weight, physical activity, cancer incidence, and cancer prognosis. Although there is general agreement that up to a third of all cancer deaths could be prevented by changing dietary habits, avoiding weight gain, and adopting a more active lifestyle, the complex relationships between these factors are just beginning to be determined. Each chapter provides a short review and summary of research studies that have addressed a variety of methodological, epidemiological, experimental, and clinical issues related to the prevention and management of different cancers through physical activity and body-weight management. The first section of the book consists of 3 …
Dysregulation of the vascular endothelial growth factor and semaphorin ligand-receptor families in prostate cancer metastasis

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family is central to cancer angiogenesis. However, targeting VEGF as an anti-cancer therapeutic approach has shown success for some tumor types but not others. Here we examine the expression of the expanded VEGF family in prostate cancer, including the Semaphorin (Sema) family members that compete with VEGFs for Neuropilin binding and can themselves have pro- or anti-angiogenic activity. First, we used multivariate statistical methods, including partial least squares and clustering, to examine VEGF/Sema gene expression variability in previously published prostate cancer microarray datasets. We show that unlike some cancers, such as kidney cancer, primary prostate cancer is characterized by both a down-regulation of the pro-angiogenic members of the VEGF family and a down-regulation of anti-angiogenic members of the Sema family. We found pro-lymphangiogenic signatures, including the genes encoding VEGFC and VEGFD, associated with primary tumors that ultimately became aggressive. In contrast to primary prostate tumors, prostate cancer metastases showed increased expression of key pro-angiogenic VEGF family members and further repression of anti-angiogenic class III Sema family members. Given the lack of success of VEGF-targeting molecules so far in prostate cancer, this suggests that the reduction in anti-angiogenic Sema signaling may potentiate VEGF signaling and even promote resistance to VEGF-targeting therapies. Inhibition of the VEGF ‘accelerator’ may need to be accompanied by promotion of the Sema ‘brake’ to block cancer angiogenesis. To leverage our mechanistic understanding, and to link multigene expression changes to outcomes, we performed individualized computational simulations of competitive VEGF and Sema receptor binding across many tumor samples. The simulations suggest that loss of Sema expression promotes angiogenesis by lowering plexin signaling, not by potentiating VEGF signaling via relaxation of competition. The combined analysis of bioinformatic data with computational modeling of ligand-receptor interactions demonstrated that enhancement of angiogenesis in prostate cancer metastases may occur through two different routes: elevation of VEGFA and reduction of class 3 Semaphorins. Therapeutic inhibition of angiogenesis in metastatic prostate cancer should account for both of these routes.
Connexin Expression is not Altered in Omental Resistance Vessels from Women with Preeclampsia

Objective. To compare connexin expression in omental resistance arteries from preeclamptic women and normal gravidas.Methods. Small arteries (∼200–400 μm i.d.) were dissected from omental fat biopsies, taken at cesarean delivery from normotensive and preeclamptic women. Vessels were frozen and homogenized, then connexin-43 protein was detected by Western blot and quantitated by comparison with α-actin.Results. Connexin-43 was detected in all specimens, primarily in its phosphorylated form. Abundance did not differ between vessels from preeclamptic and normotensive gravidas.Conclusions. Phasic activity in omental resistance vessels from preeclamptic women likely depends on abnormal genesis of an oscillatory signal rather than on more extensive gap junctional communication between vascular cells.
A Probabilistic Approach to Diachronic Phonology

We present a probabilistic model of diachronic phonology in which individual word forms undergo stochastic edits along the branches of a phylogenetic tree. Our approach allows us to achieve three goals with a single unified model: (1) reconstruction of both ancient and modern word forms, (2) discovery of general phonological changes, and (3) selection among different phylogenies. We learn our model using a Monte Carlo EM algorithm and present quantitative results validating the model.
Stage Five: Renormalization South Africa Traffic Accidents – December 23, 1998 and September 22, 1999

South Africa’s roads have historically been among the deadliest in the world. In 1995 there were 8,335 fatal collisions (500,233 total road traffic collisions) throughout the country, resulting in 10,256 deaths [1]. Although not all of South Africa’s road accidents constitute a disaster, as defined by the criteria presented in Chap. 2, many do. S’Bu Ndebele, Kwazulu-Natal Member for Executive Council (MEC) for Transport (cabinet at the provincial level), suggested that South Africa’s problem was founded on “passive acceptance of unacceptable and indeed criminal actions on our roads to blatant disregard for the law” [2]. Through this case study we see how a society works to address underlying vulnerabilities in the face of a recurrent series of repeated disasters, and consequently how new behaviors emerge, exemplifying stage five as discussed in Chap. 18. Because this case study examines multiple car accidents within the context of a history of frequent traffic accidents, it will not follow the same format as our previous case studies, which portrayed individual hazards located in time and space.
Distributed acoustic cues for caller identity in macaque vocalization

Individual primates can be identified by the sound of their voice. Macaques have demonstrated an ability to discern conspecific identity from a harmonically structured ‘coo’ call. Voice recognition presumably requires the integrated perception of multiple acoustic features. However, it is unclear how this is achieved, given considerable variability across utterances. Specifically, the extent to which information about caller identity is distributed across multiple features remains elusive. We examined these issues by recording and analysing a large sample of calls from eight macaques. Single acoustic features, including fundamental frequency, duration and Weiner entropy, were informative but unreliable for the statistical classification of caller identity. A combination of multiple features, however, allowed for highly accurate caller identification. A regularized classifier that learned to identify callers from the modulation power spectrum of calls found that specific regions of spectral–temporal modulation were informative for caller identification. These ranges are related to acoustic features such as the call’s fundamental frequency and FM sweep direction. We further found that the low-frequency spectrotemporal modulation component contained an indexical cue of the caller body size. Thus, cues for caller identity are distributed across identifiable spectrotemporal components corresponding to laryngeal and supralaryngeal components of vocalizations, and the integration of those cues can enable highly reliable caller identification. Our results demonstrate a clear acoustic basis by which individual macaque vocalizations can be recognized.
Controlling Minds: Guo Renyuan, Behavioral Psychology, and Fascism in Republican China

In this article, the author explores the life of the Chinese psychologist Guo Renyuan (郭任遠 1898–1970). As a radical behaviorist, Guo believed that he could “engineer” the ideal Chinese citizen through a combination of proper political education, militarized discipline, and the wholesale removal of negative social stimuli. Guo was given the opportunity to test his hypotheses through a series of high-ranking administrative positions at Fudan University, Zhejiang University, and in the Nationalist Education Ministry. This article argues that Guo's social engineering pursuits, which were consistently supported by the Nationalist government, reveal the politicized nature of the social sciences in Republican China as well as the direct correspondence between radical behaviorism and Chinese fascism.
Two-Dimensional Cable Analysis

The equilibrium equations for the plane cable problem are formulated assuming large rotations with no limitations on the relative change in cable tension. The cable is assumed to be acted upon by two types of uniform loads, one which remains vertical and one which remains perpendicular to the cable. The nonlinear equations are solved using a perturbation method. Numerical results are given for a cable with fixed ends.
Environment and energy: implications of overloaded agendas

Federal agencies have become overloaded since 1973 by a mass of environmental and energy-related functions for which they have neither the background knowledge nor the staff to handle. The author examines six strategies for coping with these new functions and suggests ways to improve administrative implementation other than reducing governmental activity. The approaches overloaded agencies now use are: spreading the work thin, putting priority on specific requirements, tokenism, taking the path of least resistance, and giving priority on the basis of either personal or executive preferences. Suggestions for improving the situation are: (1) make a coherent analysis of responsibilities; (2) give the chief executive (mayor, governor, or president) an effective role; (3) establish clearer public accountability for priorities; (4) form interagency task forces; and (5) substitute self-enforcing mandates for agency-implemented programs.
Reductive amination of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose to 18F-rFDGly using biological amines

157 Objectives We have previously reported Maillard reaction of 18F-FDG with biological amines resulting in formation of 18F-fluorodeoxyglycosylamines (18F-FDGly) as pseudo-Amadori products. To increase in vivo stability, we report the reductive amination of FDGly to provide reduced FDGly (rFDGly). rFDGly has the potential of linking 18F-FDG (hydrophilic) to lipophilic molecules containing amine group and may be useful as PET imaging agents in vivo. Methods Respective amines, 6-OH-BTA-0 (PIB precursor, BTA) and N,N-dimethyl-4,4’-azodianiline (TAZA) were mixed with FDG under anhydrous conditions (MeOH, molecular sieves, NaCNBH3, and acetic acid). After products were isolated, rFDGly derivatives were evaluated by displacement studies on brain slices. Respective rFDGly (rFDGBTA and rFDGTAZA) were compared with 11C-TAZA and 11C-PIB. Radiolabeled products were investigated by radiosynthesis using 18F-FDG (1-5 mCi). Radiolabeled 18F-FDGBTA was evaluated for binding to postmortem human brain Aβ-amyloid sites. Results Stable products of rFDGBTA and rFDGTAZA were isolated in 94% and 36% yield respectively. The formation of pseudo-Amadori product occurs in aqueous and nonaqueous conditions to form FDGly/18F-FDGly derivatives. The coupling of amines with FDG is improved by reductive amination because the reversibility of the Schiff base reaction is removed upon reduction. In vitro binding of 18F-FDGBTA (51% radiosynthesis yield) to human Aβ-amyloid plaque regions were observed lower when measured with 11C-PIB and 11C-TAZA in human brain slices. In vivo stability of 18F-FDGBTA, 18F-rFDGBTA and 18F-rFDGTAZ needs to be determined. Conclusions Optimization of the semi-anhydrous reductive amination conditions for the radiosynthesis of 18F-rFDGBTA and 18F- rFDGTAZ are currently underway and may help formulate conditions for 18F-ClickFDG reaction. Although these amine derivatives are stable in vitro and exhibit biological properties, stability in vivo is being investigated. Research Support NIH AG029479, DK092917
Immunologic isolation of human intrinsic factor.

SummaryThis report describes a procedure whereby IF is separated from human gastric juice by reacting it with specific human anti-human IF antibody contained in the serum of a patient with PA. Following separation of the antibody-IF complex from the rest of the gastric juice and serum, the IF was separated from the antibody by repetitive acidifications and selective precipitation of the gamma globulin. The separated IF still retained its immunologic reactivity, moved electrophoretically toward the anode, eluted from Sephadex G-100 and G-200 columns in the outer volume, and most important, enhanced the intestinal absorption of vitamin B12 in 2 patients with pernicious anemia.
Serum Estradiol Response to Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone: Studies in Normal Women and in Women with Secondary Amenorrhea

Serum estradiol (E 2 ), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were measured in blood samples obtained prior to and at frequent intervals for 360 or 480minutes following the subcutaneous administration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gn-RH) to eight normal women and nine patients with hypothalamic secondary amenorrhea. In the normal subjects given 100 μ g of Gn-RH on day 7 of the menstrual cycle, there was no significant increase in the mean E 2 concentration above basal levels. Six women with secondary amenorrhea received GnRH, 100 μ g, for 4 successive days; frequent blood samples were obtained on days 1 and 4. On day 1, the mean E 2 concentration at 360minutes was significantly greater than the mean basal level. On day 4 no significant increase in E 2 was detected, although the mean LH and FSH responses and basal E 2 level were not different from those of day 1. Four women with secondary amenorrhea received daily doses of 500 μ g of Gn-RH for 7days. Significant increases in mean serum E 2 concentration (100 to 150pg/ml) were noted at 6 and 8hours after administration on day 1 and at 8hours on day 4. No significant rise in E 2 was detected on day 7. The mean LH and FSH responses did not differ from those observed in women who received the 100- μ g dose, and there were no significant differences in responses on successive days of Gn-RH administration. The repeated daily administration of high doses of Gn-RH did not result in hormonal evidence of follicular maturation. Induction of follicular maturation in women with secondary amenorrhea may require frequent or continuous administration of Gn-RH to replicate more closely the sustained elevation of FSH concentration observed during the early phase of the normal menstrual cycle. Since no E 2 response was observed in normal women during the early follicular phase, ovarian responsiveness to LH and/or FSH may differ at various stages of follicular maturation.
Mutagens and carcinogens in cooked foods: concentration, potency, and risk.

The cooking of foods derived from muscle generates heterocyclic amines that are very potent bacterial mutagens and carcinogens in mice, rats, and monkeys. Presently 12 mutagenic compounds have been found in cooked foods derived from the Western Diet. Only 6 of these compounds have been definitely identified. Specifically designed monoclonal antibodies can detect nanogram amounts each of 2-amino-1-methyu1-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-f]pyridine(PhIP), 2-amino-3-methylimidazo[4,5f] quinoline(IQ), and 2-amino-3,4-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline (MeIQx) in the meat matrix, but specific quantitation requires a prior HPLC separation before use of antibodies for identification. Modeling of PhIP (20 ppb in beef) formation under dry heating conditions using heavy isotope incorporation coupled with MS and NMR shows that all the C and N atoms in the PhIP are contributed by creatin(ine) and phenylalanine. PhIP is both a potent frameshift mutagen in Salmonella bacteria and a potent inducer of mutations, sister chromatid exchange and chromosomal aberrations in Chinese Hamster Cells in culture, and of chromosome damage in mouse bone marrow. Using accelerator mass spectroscopy, we can measure in a linear fashion one MeIQz DNA adduct per 1011nucleotides. N-OH-PhIP which is generated by both IA1 and IA2 forms of cytochrome P-450 appears to be a proximal mutagen.
Case 57: Are Case Reports Becoming Extinct?

As you read in Case 56, it has become harder and harder to get a case report published, unless it contains an account of a previously unpublished rare case with severe/uncommon comorbidities.