cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
‘Special effects’ burn injuries

Three patients are presented with significant flame burns, resulting from accidents occurring during 'special effects' situations in the entertainment industry. These occurred as a result of the spontaneous combustion of various materials, during events in live theatre (gun powder), a television commercial (artificial 'rocket fuel'), and a video presentation (magnesium oxide). All three patients sustained flash burns to the face and hands. One patient sustained a significant bilateral corneal injury, a gamekeeper's thumb, and a permanent continuous right-sided high frequency tinnitus, in addition to his burn injury. Photographic documentation of all three patients is presented. The total loss of time from work for all patients was 6 months. All these injuries were potentially preventable.
Meta-analysis of brain and cranial size in schizophrenia

Several meta-analyses are presented that address the issue of brain and/or cranial size reductions in schizophrenia. Separate meta-analyses were conducted for brain size (n = 27 studies), intracranial size (n = 18) or extracranial size (n = 8). For each meta-analysis, the weighted composite effect size (d) was tested for statistical significance (the direction of the effect size was negative if patients with schizophrenia had smaller structure size than controls). The influence of several potential modifiers of effect size (age, methods, region, gender) was individually evaluated. The composite effect sizes for studies of brain, intracranial and extracranial measures were d= −0.26, (p < 0.0001) d = -0.18, (p=0.0012), and d = +0.14, (p = 0.16), respectively. Thus, the review found evidence for a small, but statistically significant reduction in brain and intracranial size in schizophrenia, but no evidence for a reduction in extracranial size. Studies based on axial image slices had significantly larger effects (d = −0.60) than the studies based on sagittal images (d = -0.09)(χ2 = 14.0, p = 0.0002). In summary, the findings clearly support a small yet highly significant reduction of brain and intracranial size in schizophrenia.
Automatic UXO classification for fully polarimetric GPR data

This paper presents an automatic UXO classification system using neural network and fuzzy inference based on the classification rules developed by the OSU. These rules incorporate scattering pattern, polarization and resonance features extracted from an ultra-wide bandwidth, fully polarimetric radar system. These features allow one to discriminate an elongated object. The algorithm consists of two stages. The first-stage classifies objects into clutter (group-A and D), a horizontal linear object (group-B) and a vertical linear object (group-C) according to the spatial distribution of the Estimated Linear Factor (ELF) values. Then second-stage discriminates UXO-LIKE targets from clutters under groups B and C. The rule in the first-stage was implemented by neural network and rules in the second-stage were realized by fuzzy inference with quantitative variables, i.e. ELF level, flatness of Estimated Target Orientation (ETO), the consistency of the target orientation, and the magnitude of the target response. It was found that the classification performance of this automatic algorithm is comparable with or superior to that obtained from a trained expert. However, the automatic classification procedure does not require the involvement of the operator and assigns a unbiased quantitative confidence level (or quality factor) associated with each classification. Classification error and inconsistency associated with fatigue, memory fading or complex features should be greatly reduced.
Impaired metabolism of leukotrienes in inherited metabolic disorders

Leukotrienes (LTs) are lipid mediators derived from arachidonate in the 5-lipoxygenase pathway (Samuelsson et al 1987). The unstable intermediate LTA 4 can be converted by an epoxide hydrolase to LTB 4 or conjugated with glutathione (GSH) to LTC 4 (Figure 1). Although GSH represents a co-substrate for LTC 4 synthesis, there exist no data on intracellular GSH levels required for LTC 4 synthesis. LTC 4 and LTD 4 are rapidly metabolized in the blood circulation to LTE 4 , which is excreted into urine (Huber et al 1990)
Why we need to better understand the cortical neurophysiology of impaired postural responses with age, disease, or injury

The examples above demonstrate that cortical neurophysiology during postural responses to extrinsic perturbations of standing balance is critical for individuals with postural impairments such as advanced aging, neurodegeneration, and chronic pain. In addition, the little available literature emphasizes how recordings of cortical neurophysiology during extrinsically induced postural responses can offer crucial insights into mechanisms of impaired balance that are not available or unexpected based on behavioral inference alone. Lastly, cortical neurophysiology is functionally relevant to the stability of postural responses and, perhaps, to clinical disability associated with the health condition. Despite the importance of understanding the neurophysiologic mechanisms of impaired postural responses to extrinsic perturbations of standing balance, very little neurophysiologic recording beyond the muscle has been attempted during these responses. With technologies such as EEG, near infrared spectroscopy, single photon emission computed tomography, transcranial magnetic or direct-current stimulation, etc., and with improved abilities to overcome technical challenges, the opportunity for expansive research on the neurophysiology of extrinsically induced postural responses exists in order to compliment parallel work on voluntary postural control. For any population with disorders of balance and posture, more research is needed to evaluate multiple measures that reflect unique neurophysiologic systems of both preparatory and evoked neural activation. In addition, these recordings should be undertaken across multiple contexts that vary predictability, perturbation characteristics, dual tasking, etc. to more accurately understand how environmental circumstances affect the neural control of postural responses. In so doing, crucial insights are likely to emerge that could support more efficacious interventions and clinical outcomes for those with balance disorders. Conflict of interest statement The author declares that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
The impact of congruence in cause marketing campaigns for service firms

Purpose – Several studies have examined sponsor‐cause congruence as an influence on consumer response to cause marketing campaigns. This paper aims to assess the relationship between sponsor‐cause congruence and consumer responses to cause marketing programs. In addition, it aims to test the possible existence of an interaction of congruence and service type of a cause sponsor (utilitarian vs hedonic) on consumer response.Design/methodology/approach – A 2×2 experimental design was used to assess the impact of congruence and firm type. A total of 176 students participated in the main experiment. Sponsor‐cause linkages were presented using mock press releases.Findings – Results indicated no main effects differences existed for the sponsorship response variables collectively, but perceived sincerity and attitude toward sponsor were significantly more positive for congruent sponsor‐cause linkages and attitude toward sponsor was significantly more positive for utilitarian sponsors. The congruence‐service type ...
Solute segregation stresses around void surfaces

The distribution of stresses in cases of solute--solvent concentration misfits near growing voids was studied as related to solute abundance profiles. It was found that in finite solids containing N widely spaced, uniformly distributed inclusions, centrally located inclusions have spherically symmetric stress and displacement fields within a few radii (R) of their centers. The image contribution to these fields is N times that computed for a single inclusion in a solid of the same external dimensions. The remaining contribution to the stress and displacement fields is the same as calculated for a single inclusion in an infinite solid. The study is related to irradiated metals and alloys. (JRD)
Public Expressions of Private Sentiments: Unveiling the Pulse of Racial Tolerance through Online News Readers' Comments

Ever since the election of the nation's first Black president, there have been strong persistent claims that racism is no longer a problem in the United States. However, there are indicators in society that reveal that the death of racism is just a myth. The emergence of online news readers' comments have allowed the amplification of private sentiments on a public space and this study examines how race is articulated behind an anonymous and unconstrained space. Using the Texas Relay/Highland Mall as a case study, this research uncovers the racial discourse present in the online comments section following the Austin American-Statesman's news coverage of the highly controversial incident. The discourse analysis findings reveals patterns of modern racism that still permeate throughout society today suggesting that race tolerance has been greatly exaggerated in today's modern society.
Cardiac rate regulated by nutritional factor in young rats.

Milk fed by stomach tube to 2-week-old rats separated from their mothers without feeding for 16 hours transiently but fully reversed the decrease in cardiac rate which had occurred during separation. This effect was rapid in onset and was related to dosage; it was not dependent upon gastric distention, but did depend upon β-adrenergic transmission.
Gender Role and Gender Role Conflict: Preliminary Considerations for Psychotherapy with Gay Men

The current study examined the influence of gender role, gender role conflict, and their interaction in predicting psychological distress in gay men. Gender role was measured utilizing the Occupations, Activities, and Traits-Personal Measures (OAT-PM), gender role conflict was assessed via the Gender Role Conflict Scale (GRCS), and psychological distress was measured using the Global Severity Index (GSI) of the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI). Participants were 71 self-identified gay males, collected from a large, Midwestern city. Results revealed that both femininity and gender role conflict were positively associated with general distress. However, a significant femininity by gender role conflict interaction was also found, suggesting that feminine gay men with high levels of conflict regarding their gender role are at an increased risk for general distress. Implications for clinicians working with gay men are discussed.
Chiari type I anomalies in children and adolescents: minimally invasive management in a series of 53 cases.

The authors studied the role of the sole posterior fossa bony decompression in the management of symptomatic children affected by Chiari type I anomalies. The series in the pediatric literature on this subject were reviewed and compared with that presented in this article. From May 1994 to December 1998, 53 patients (3 months to 26 years) were observed. They were divided into: asymptomatic patients (27), who received no surgical treatment and were only subject to clinical observation; symptomatic patients (brain stem compression 16, syringomyelia 10, including 7 with holocord). All the symptomatic patients were treated with the same surgical approach: bony decompression of posterior fossa with removal of the posterior arch of C-1 and the outer layer of the dura without dural opening. In all 16 (100%) of the 16 patients with brain stem compression the symptoms resolved or improved; in patients with syringomyelia the symptoms were resolved or improved in 94.4% of cases. Two children required further surgery after 13 and 24 months, respectively.This series seems to demonstrate that even a simple extradural surgical approach, with a lower rate of postoperative complications and short stay in hospital, is sufficient to arrest the disease and to improve the symptomatology in a high percentage of cases (97.2%), which is comparable to that achieved with other, more aggressive, procedures.
Local Governance of Forests and the Role of External Organizations: Some Ties Matter More Than Others

Summary Local efforts to govern forests can benefit from support from organizations operating at broader governance scales. This paper investigates why local users value the support from some organizations more than others, and the extent to which these preferences matter for governance choices. Analyzing data from 200 forest user groups in Bolivia, I find that users rate their relationships with nongovernmental organizations and municipal governments equally high, but only relationships with municipalities affect the probability of establishing local governance institutions. I attribute these results to differences in the external actors’ motivation and ability to respond to local governance needs.
Modulation of Janus kinase 2 by p53 in ovarian cancer cells

The constitutive activation of the Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and mutation of the p53 tumor suppressor are both detected in human cancer. We examined the potential regulation of JAK2 phosphorylation by wild-type (wt) p53 in human ovarian cancer cell lines, Caov-3 and MDAH2774, which harbor mutant form of p53 tumor suppressor gene and high levels of phosphorylated JAK2. The wt p53 gene was re-introduced into the cells using an adenovirus vector. In addition to wt p53, mutant p53 22/23, mutant p53-175, and NCV (negative control virus) were introduced into the cells in the control groups. Expression of wt p53, but not that of p53-175 mutant, diminished JAK2 tyrosine phosphorylation in MDAH2774 and Caov-3 cell lines. Expression of wt p53 or p53 22/23 mutant did not cause a reduction in the phosphorylation of unrelated protein kinases, ERK1 and ERK2 (ERK1/2). The inhibition of JAK2 tyrosine phosphorylation can be reversed by tyrosine phosphatase inhibitor, sodium orthovanadate. Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1-B levels increased with introduction of wt p53 and may be involved in the dephosphorylation of JAK2. These findings present a possible p53-dependent cellular process of modulating JAK2 tyrosine phosphorylation in ovarian cancer cell lines.
Fatigue Crack Growth Behavior of TC-128-B Steel Under Variable Amplitude Loading

Railroad tank cars are exposed to a high degree of variable amplitude loading that is comprised of both tensile compressive cycles. In order to consistently and accurately predict this type of loading, material properties, usage, and load interaction models must be used in concert. The objective of this study is to present the methodology necessary to generate tank car specific spectrum crack growth life prediction models. Experimental fatigue crack growth data from this project and previous efforts provided the baseline data necessary to develop NASGRO® models and predict simplified over-load and under-load experiments. The methods were then advanced to predict spectrum crack growth experimental data representative of tank car usage. The results show that significant amounts of compressive loads in the tank car spectra essentially negate the need for a tensile stress based load interaction model. In order to provide consistently conservative prediction, the most basic model must be implemented instead of the more elaborate retardation models.Copyright © 2007 by ASME and Southwest Research Institute
Coronary artery disease: evaluation by the multistage treadmill exercise test and right atrial pacing.

Atrial pacing and treadmill exercise were performed by 28 patients to determine the value of each test in the clinical and functional evaluation of the patient with coronary artery disease (CAD). The functional aerobic impairment (FAI) in 20 patients was 48 percent (eight patients with unstable angina paced but not exercised) and the pacing ventricular function curve (VFC) was abnormal in 13 of these 20. Five patients with severe FA1 (pain Limited) had a normal pacing VFC. Although the FA1 was greater the more extensive the CAD, no such correlation existed between the pacing VM= and the number of did coronary vessels. Exercise testing does not necessarily indicate the functional performance of the left ventricle since the V& max is frequently pein limited. Atrial pacing, although less sensitive, permits a VFC determination, even in poorly motivated and no* ambulatory patients, and combined studies will indicate the patient's clinical, as well as myocardial status. ince there may be no correlation between the control hemodynamic performance of the myocardium and the extent of coronary artery disease, some form of stress is usually required in evaluating this type of Most commonly, this is exercise stress either clinically or at cardiac catheterizati~n,~~ but infusions of angi~tensin,~ sustained hand grip,8 and atrial pacinga14 are also utilized to determine the functional status of the left ventricle. Although exercise may be the ideal method, the patient must be ambulatory and motivated, and the clinical situation should be stable. Therefore, unstable angina pectoris or a recent myocardial infarction is usually considered a reason to preclude this form of study. Many investigators have recently , used atrial pacing in the evaluation of patients with coronary artery disease since it is a controlled reproducible stress, which lacks the systemic metabolic effects of exercise and requires no particular cooperation on the part of the patient other than that of routine cardiac catheteri~ation.~'~ We and others have also utilized the multistage treadmill exercise test developed by Bruce and his as~ociates'~-~~ to evaluate and follow up these patients, and this has been used in conjunction with atrial pacing performed at the time of cardiac catheterization. This report describes our results in 28 consecutive patients with coronary artery disease, in whom both treadmill exercise and atrial pacing were performed. Although it is realized that each test is not measuring the same parameters, we have attempted to determine what relation exists between the two procedures. This was done to ascertain their individual and their combined potentials in determining the clinical and hemodynamic status of the patient with coronary artery disease. This knowledge is important since these techniques are so frequently used, especially in the preoperative and postoperative study of patients with coronary insdciency.
Measurement of oxygen consumption on-kinetics during exercise: implications for patients with heart failure.

Abstract Oxygen consumption (VO 2 ) on-kinetics describes the rate change in oxygen uptake at the initiation of exercise. Several mathematical and graphical methods are used to assess VO 2 on-kinetics during constant-load or progressive exercise. VO 2 on-kinetics is prolonged in patients with heart failure (HF) compared with individuals who have normal cardiopulmonary function. Cardiac function has been implicated as one of the controlling mechanism for this observation. The contribution that pulmonary, vascular, and skeletal muscle function makes to delayed VO 2 on-kinetics in HF has yet to be determined. VO 2 on-kinetics also appears to have clinical value in HF, although evidence supporting this claim is limited. Questions about the controlling mechanism(s) and practical application of VO 2 on-kinetics in HF therefore remain unanswered. This report provides an overview of VO 2 on-kinetics assessment techniques, reviews research pertaining to the HF population, and provides direction for future investigations.
A study of mobile user engagement (MoEN)

The growth of mobile technology mediated environments is accelerated by its accessibility and easy use tools, such as smartphones and tablets. User friendly and intuitive features drive user value and satisfaction. These features motivate and drive further mobile user engagement. Smartphones, for example, allow users to control when, where, and how they engage in chosen activities that serve their needs, saving time, completing a task (utilitarian), entertain them (hedonic), or connect with others (social). Few studies have examined why and how mobile users are continually engaging mobile activities. Focusing on mobile engagement which has not previously been explored, this study investigates, proposes, and tests a mobile user engagement (MoEN) model to explain mobile user engagement intention through user's motivations, perceived value and satisfaction. Findings indicate that mobile users' engagement motivations do influence perceived value, satisfaction and mobile engagement intention. Research introduces the concept of mobile user engagement (MoEN).Research utilizes the cognitive-affective-conative stage framework.Research framework helps to understand mobile user mobile engagement motivations.Empirical results highlight the importance of mobile user engagement behavior.
Diagonal forms of symmetric convolution matrices for asymmetric multidimensional sequences

This paper presents diagonal forms of matrices representing symmetric convolution which is the underlying form of convolution for discrete trigonometric transforms. Symmetric convolution is identically equivalent to linear convolution for appropriately zero-padded sequences. These diagonal forms provide an alternate derivation of the symmetric convolution-multiplication property of the discrete trigonometric transforms. Derived in this manner, the symmetric convolution-multiplication property extends easily to multiple dimensions, and generalizes to multidimensional asymmetric sequences. The symmetric convolution of multidimensional asymmetric sequences can then be accomplished by taking the product of the trigonometric transforms of the sequences and then applying an inverse transform to the result. An example is given of how this theory can be used for applying a 2D FIR filter with nonlinear phase which models atmospheric turbulence.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Re: Phase 1 Trial of High-Dose Exogenous Testosterone in Patients with Castration-Resistant Metastatic Prostate Cancer

Laboratory studies suggest that castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) cell growth is suppressed by supraphysiologic doses of testosterone (T). In this study, 12 men received high doses of T transdermally for 7 d, for 4 mo, or until progression.The approach was safe and toxicity was mild, but responses were modest. Because serum T did not reach intended supraphysiologic levels, the authors urged more clinical testing.
Predicting the effects of rainbow smelt on native fishes in small lakes: evidence from long-term research on two lakes

We assessed predictability of negative interactions between native fishes and exotic rainbow smelt (Osmerus mordax) through field experiments and long-term data analysis for two lakes in Wisconsin. Predictions were made based on thermal preferences, diet characteristics, and published accounts of interactions between smelt and yellow perch (Perca flavescens) and smelt and cisco (Coregonus artedii). Our results indicate predation is the most likely cause for the extirpation of cisco from Sparkling Lake in 1990. In Crystal Lake, native yellow perch experienced significant overlap in distribution and diet with smelt. The condition of adult perch was negatively correlated with smelt abundance indicating competition was occurring. Smelt feed on a wide size range of prey items making this species a threat to native fishes, especially when spatial overlap is high. Information on spatial and temporal overlap and diet enable useful predictions about the effect of smelt invasions on native fishes. Resume : Nous avons OtudiO la prOvisibilitO des interactions nOgatives entre des poissons indignes et liOperlan arc-en-ciel (Osmerus mordax) exotique en rOalisant des expOriences sur le terrain et des analyses des donnOes ‡ long terme relatives ‡ deux lacs du Wisconsin. Les prOvisions ont OtO rOalisOes ‡ partir des prOfOrences thermiques, des caractOristiques des rOgimes alimentaires et des donnOes publiOes sur les interactions entre liOperlan et la perchaude (Perca flavescens) et entre liOperlan et le corOgone (Coregonus artedii). Nos rOsultats montrent que la prOdation est la cause la plus probable de la disparition du corOgone dans le lac Sparkling en 1990. Dans le lac Crystal, il y avait un chevauchement significatif de la rOpartition et du rOgime alimentaire de la perchaude indigne et de liOperlan. LiOtat des perchaudes adultes Otait corrOlO nOgativement avec liabondance de liOperlan, ce qui indique quiil y avait compOtition entre les deux espces. LiOperlan se nourrit de proies de tailles trs diverses et reprOsente donc une menace pour les poissons indignes dont le domaine vital chevauche celui de liOperlan. Les donnOes sur le chevauchement spatial et temporel et sur le rOgime alimentaire permettent de faire des prOvisions utiles concernant lieffet des invasions diOperlans sur les poissons indignes. (Traduit par la ROdaction)
Family relations in bulimic‐anorexic and nondistressed families

The present study compared patterns of family relations in 16 bulimic-anorexic and 24 nondistressed family triads. Father, mother, and teenage daughter completed the Family Environment Scale (FES) and the Family Adaptibility and Cohesion Evaluation Scale (FACES), independently. Both scales were factor analyzed and found to consist of 8 orthogonal factors. Findings from fathers, mothers, and daughters converged, and revealed that families of bulimic-anorexics were less involved and supportive, and more isolated, conflictual, understructured, and detached than were the nonproblem controls. These results were discussed as consistent with clinical observations and prior research on the potential contribution of family disturbance to eating disorders.
Effect of Faculty Training on Improving the Consistency of Student Assessment and Debriefing in Clinical Simulation

Abstract Simulation is a teaching strategy that is supported in the nursing literature. The simulation experience can be segmented into distinct areas of focus: the development of the evidence-based scenario, the method used to assess the students' performance, the technique used to debrief the participants, and the overall perception of enhanced clinical judgment skills of the students. The challenge faculty encounter when using simulation is a lack of knowledge in assessing student performance and debriefing methodologies. The purpose of this article is to describe one school's journey in improving the student learning experience in simulation. The adoption of an evidence-based approach to teach faculty assessment techniques and debriefing strategies after simulation are examined. The use of the Creighton Competency Evaluation Instrument and the Debriefing for Meaningful Learning methodology are studied. The aim in providing faculty with additional training was to promote a more thoughtful approach to simulation as a teaching strategy.
Development of a capillary electrophoresis platform for identifying inhibitors of protein-protein interactions.

Methods for identifying chemical inhibitors of protein–protein interactions (PPIs) are often prone to discovery of false positives, particularly those caused by molecules that induce protein aggregation. Thus, there is interest in developing new platforms that might allow earlier identification of these problematic compounds. Capillary electrophoresis (CE) has been evaluated as a method to screen for PPI inhibitors using the challenging system of Hsp70 interacting with its co-chaperone Bag3. In the method, Hsp70 is labeled with a fluorophore, mixed with Bag3, and the resulting bound and free Hsp70 are separated and detected by CE with laser-induced fluorescence detection. The method used a chemically modified CE capillary to prevent protein adsorption. Inhibitors of the Hsp70–Bag3 interaction were detected by observing a reduction in the bound-to-free ratio. The method was used to screen a library of 3443 compounds, and the results were compared to those from a flow cytometry protein interaction assay. CE...
Dynamics of shearing in flocculating fine sediment suspensions

The variability of rheological properties in cohesive sediment suspensions are studied and related to the flocculation process. It was found that the steady state shear stress increases exponentially with increasing sediment concentration and increases logarithmically by increasing the salinity of the suspension. The salinity dependence of the shear stress was correlated with changes in the floc-size. These results reflect the dominant influence of fluid-sediment interactions on the flocculation behavior of the suspension. An analytic model predicting shear stress as a function of the physical and electrochemical properties of the fine sediment suspension is developed.
Expanding access to sterile syringes through pharmacies: Assessment of New York's Expanded Syringe Access Program

Abstract Objectives To investigate the evolution of pharmacist practices, attitudes, and experiences with the Expanded Syringe Access Program (ESAP), which permits over-the-counter sale of syringes by registered pharmacies in New York State. Design Longitudinal study. Setting New York State in 2002 and 2006. Participants 506 (2002) and 682 (2006) managing pharmacists (response rates ∼70%) at ESAP-registered pharmacies (n = 346 in both years). Intervention Mailed surveys (2002 and 2006). Main outcome measures Pharmacist practices, attitudes, and experiences with ESAP over time. Results Approximately 75% of pharmacists reported that ESAP had facilitated timely/emergency access to syringes, and more than 90% in each year reported no problems or very few problems administering ESAP. The practice of placing additional requirements on the sale of syringes decreased from 2002 (51.4%) to 2006 (45.1%), while a 55% increase in syringe sales was reported between 2002 (43.3/month) and 2006 (67.1/month). The sale of sharps containers also increased between 2002 (85.2%) and 2006 (92.8%). Community independent pharmacies and those located outside New York City generally expressed more favorable attitudes and experiences with ESAP, although these differences decreased over time. Conclusion Pharmacy-based syringe access is a viable harm-reduction alternative in the fight against blood-borne diseases, with ESAP now equaling the number of syringes being distributed by syringe exchange programs in New York State. Continued education/training is necessary to increase participation in ESAP and to further reduce barriers to ESAP use.
Aortic neck morphology after endovascular repair of descending thoracic aortic aneurysms.

Background Endovascular repair has emerged as a less-invasive treatment for descending thoracic aortic (DTA) aneurysms. However, the durability of this procedure relies on the stability of proximal and distal fixation sites. This study analyzes 3 years of computed tomography (CT) data on aortic neck morphology after endovascular DTA aneurysm repair. Methods Between 1999 and 2001, 139 patients underwent successful endovascular DTA repair as part of a prospective, multicenter clinical trial investigating the Gore TAG thoracic endoprosthesis. Contrast-enhanced, high-resolution CT scans were obtained at 1 (baseline), 12, 24, and 36 months and submitted to an independent core laboratory for image analysis. The aorta was carefully measured by using computerized planimetry and a standardized protocol. Neck diameter was measured at 10-mm intervals for 2 cm above and below the aneurysm and correlated with graft migration and endoleak. Results The mean proximal neck diameter increased from a baseline of 30.2 ± 4.6 mm to 32.0 ± 4.3 mm at 36 months ( P P Conclusions Three years after endovascular repair of DTA aneurysms, there is progressive enlargement of the proximal and distal aortic necks. Although uncommon for patients to develop significant neck dilation, when it does occur, it is not associated with graft migration or endoleak. Continued surveillance of aortic neck morphology after descending thoracic aneurysm endografting is recommended.
Distinct roles of sphingosine kinases 1 and 2 in human mast-cell functions

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is now emerging as a potent lipid mediator produced by mast cells that contributes to inflammatory and allergic responses. In contrast to its weak effect on degranulation of murine mast cells, S1P potently induced degranulation of the human LAD2 mast-cell line and cord blood–derived human mast cells (hMCs). S1P also stimulated production and secretion of cytokines, TNF-α and IL-6, and markedly enhanced secretion of a chemokine, CCL2/MCP-1, important modulators of inflammation. S1P is produced in mast cells by the 2 sphingosine kinases, SphK1 and SphK2. SphK1 but not SphK2 plays a critical role in IgE/Ag-induced degranulation, migration toward antigen, and CCL2 secretion from hMCs, as determined by specifically down-regulating their expression. However, both isoenzymes were required for efficient TNF-α secretion. Taken together, our data suggest that differential formation of S1P by SphK1 and SphK2 has distinct and important actions in hMCs.
Non-planar axial Me2N in -2-dimethylamino-2-thio-5--butyl-1,3,2-oxazaphosphorinane

Abstract An X-ray crystallographic study of the title compound shows it to have an axial Me 2 N with pyramidal N and a lengthened N-P bond. Conversely, the endocyclic NH-P bond is shortened. The origins of these effects are assigned to specific geometrical relationships of the Me 2 N/P=S and NH/P=S groupings imposed by the ring system.
Statistical Fluctuations in Low-Current Barrier Microdischarges

The number of charged particles in barrier microdischarges that operate in Townsend regime (like ldquoramp dischargesrdquo that are widely used in plasma display panels) is relatively small, and the statistical fluctuations should be taken into account when considering the discharge development. The main processes that cause the fluctuations are studied, and a simple analytical model for their description is developed. The model clarifies the mechanism of the statistical instability of the barrier Townsend discharge. Analogy to a nonlinear oscillator driven by a random force is revealed. Results obtained from the model are checked against those from Monte Carlo simulations.
Vertical Integration under Competition: Forward, Backward, or No Integration?

We consider two competing supply chains, each consisting of supplier, a manufacturer, and a retailer. The suppliers exert effort to improve product quality, and the retailers sell products competitively. Each manufacturer chooses one of the three strategies: forward integration, backward integration, or no vertical integration. We seek for a subgame perfect Nash equilibrium and study the resulting market structure. Moreover, we characterize the effect of vertical integration on profitability, product price, and quality in a competitive setting. Existing literature has shown that, when manufacturers consider only forward integration, they may choose not to vertically integrate in equilibrium. In contrast, we find that, when both forward and backward integration options are considered, disintegration cannot be an equilibrium outcome. In this case, both manufacturers either forward or backward integrate, and the degree of product perishability, cost of quality, and how much consumers value quality are critical for the chosen direction of integration. Furthermore, competition increases attractiveness of backward integration relative to forward integration. We show that, while integrating backward unilaterally is always beneficial, unilateral forward integration can harm a manufacturer's profitability. Finally, vertical integration can result in a better quality product sold at a lower price.
The sense of coherence scale in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Objective. To analyze Antonovsky's Sense of Coherence (SOC) Scale, in 828 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) from 15 private rheumatology practices. This scale is designed to evaluate strengths within individuals that allow them to select appropriate strategies to deal with stressors; both the total 29-item (SOC-29) total scale and a 13-item (SOC-13) short form of the 29-item scale were analyzed. Methods. Data were collected through mailed self-report questionnaires as a component of a long-term monitoring program. Internal consistency was evaluated according to Cronbach's alpha. Split-halves reliability was estimated according to the Spearman-Brown prophecy formula. Associations of the SOC-29 and the SOC-13 scale scores with demographic, clinical, and psychological variables were analyzed according to Pearson product moment correlations. Results. Lower SOC-29 and SOC-13 scale scores were correlated significantly with higher scores for difficulty in performing activities of daily living (ADL), a visual analog pain scale score, global health status, and perceived learned helplessness. The levels of correlation for these variables suggest that each measure represents a construct that differs from the SOC. Lower scale scores were also correlated significantly with fewer years of formal education, adjusted for age, sex, and disease duration. Conclusions. The SOC-29 and SOC-13 scales are reliable and valid in patients with RA. The SOC scale explained in part variation in clinical status in patients with RA. The SOC-13 provides utility comparable to the SOC-29 in patients with RA.
Response of splenectomized mice to bacterial agents.

SummaryNo differences in mortality were observed in splenectomized, sham-operated and normal mice following intravenous or intranasal inoculation of hemolytic streptococci. Similarly, susceptibility to intravenous and intraperitoneal staphylococcal, aerosolized pneumococcal or intraperitoneal pseudomonas infections was not affected by splenectomy.
Using toxicity testing to evaluate electrochemical reactor operations

In the present study, the Microtox® test was used to track the toxicity of electrochemical effluents to the marine bacteria Vibrio fischeri as a function of reaction time. When electrochemistry was used to degrade aqueous phenol using different reactor configurations, two reaction pathways were identified, chlorine substitution and oxidation, depending on whether the electrolyte contained chloride. For a boron-doped diamond (BDD) anode, electrochemistry using Na2SO4 electrolyte produced a significantly more toxic effluent than when using NaCl electrolyte with all other conditions remaining the same. This effect is attributed to the reaction pathway, specifically the production of benzoquinone. Benzoquinone was produced only during electrochemistry using Na2SO4 and is the most toxic potential intermediate, having nearly 800 times more toxicity than phenol. Although the use of NaCl produced a lower toxicity effluent than Na2SO4, caution should be observed because of the production of chlorinated phenols, which can be of special environmental concern. When comparing graphite rod and BDD plate anodes in terms of toxicity evolution when using Na2SO4, BDD was found to produce a lower toxicity effluent; this is a result of the increased oxidizing power of BDD, reducing the formation of benzoquinone. In this comparison, the type of anode material/electrode configuration did not seem to affect which intermediates were detected but did affect the quantity of and rate of production of intermediates. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2012;31:494–500. © 2011 SETAC
Dictionary and sparse decomposition method selection for underdetermined blind source separation

In underdetermined BSS problems, it is common practice to exploit the underlying sparsity of the sources. In this work, we propose two approaches to improve the quality and robustness of current algorithms that rely on source sparsity. First, we highlight the benefits of using a matched dictionary as opposed to a standard overcomplete dictionary for separation. Second, we investigate the problem of additive noise for geometric separation methods such as the Hough Transform, and propose using a BESS decomposition algorithm as a robust method for estimating the mixing matrix in the presence of noise. We find that current sparse decomposition methods fail to take advantage of optimal dictionary design and suggest pursuing representations that are less sparse for signal mixtures.
Reciprocity theorems for electromagnetic fields whose time dependence is arbitrary

Two reciprocity theorems are derived which are valid for fields whose sources may have arbitrary time dependence. The first theorem involves the electromagnetic potentials, and the second is in terms of the electric and magnetic fields directly. In both cases, it is necessary to make use of the advanced as well as the retarded solutions to Maxwell's equations. Some properties of the theorems are discussed, and, as an application, the second theorem is used to derive a variational expression for scattering of electromagnetic waves from a perfect conductor.
Graceful Exits and Missed Opportunities: Xerox's Management of its Technology Spin-off Organizations

The Xerox Corporation has devised several strategies for managing the numerous spin-off firms that independently commercialized many of its technologies. From 1979 to 1998, thirty-five technology-based organizations emerged from Xerox's research centers. Contradicting the common perception that Xerox “fumbled the future” by letting its technology walk out the door, in fact the company set in motion a series of deliberate initiatives to manage its spin-off organizations. After initially adopting a laissez-faire approach, the company soon turned to ad hoc methods, which evolved into a formal internal venture capital structure and culminated in a triage process, with the result that only companies perceived by Xerox as fitting into its overall corporate strategy were retained. By using spin-offs to withdraw gracefully from areas it considered to be marginal, Xerox for feited the potential to realize value from their research. Some, but not all, of the spin-offs obtained venture capital financing from outside sources and thus prospered independently. Their success demonstrated the opportunity that Xerox missed in managing its spin-offs.
Rhetorical dynamics of corporate communication in cyberspace: the protest over Lotus MarketPlace

Computer mediated communication (CMC) via the Internet is fast becoming a significant communication medium for technical and professional communicators. Research emerging from a number of disciplines is beginning to articulate the numerous social and organizational factors involved in the use of CMC. A significant question for communicators to ask is how organizations, which traditionally prefer structured and accountable communication, can exist in the open ended and unregulated world of the Internet. A rhetorical analysis of the protest over Lotus MarketPlace illustrates the complexity of traditional corporate communication in the nonhierarchical and often highly emotive forum of the Internet. Organizations can interact within this complexity more successfully by changing their rhetorical strategies. >
New Strategies in Myelodysplastic Syndromes: Application of molecular diagnostics to clinical practice

An increasingly complete compendium of recurrently mutated genes in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) has been defined, and the application of massively parallel sequencing to identify mutations in clinical practice now promises to improve the care of patients with this disease. More than 25 recurrent MDS-associated somatic mutations have been identified, involving biological pathways as diverse as chromatin remodeling and pre-mRNA splicing. Several of these mutations have been demonstrated to have prognostic implications that are independent of existing risk stratification systems based on clinical and pathological parameters. Application of these recent discoveries to diagnosis, prognosis, risk stratification and treatment selection for patients with MDS has the potential to improve patient outcomes. Here, we review recent advances in MDS and discuss potential applications of these discoveries to clinical practice.
Using prayer as an intervention with clients who are substance abusing and addicted and who self-identify personal faith in God and prayer as recovery resources.

This article describes how the authors use prayer with clients who self-identify their personal faith in God and who have used prayer as a helpful recovery agent or who believe prayer would be helpful to their personal recovery.
Caries Development in the African White-Tailed Rat (Mystromys albicaudatus) Infected with a Streptococcus of Human Origin

The African white-tailed rat (Mystromys albicaudatus) developed rampant dental caries when challenge was made with a combination of diet 2000 and a streptococcus of human origin (KI-R). The apparent lack of caries in certain species may result from the absence of a microbial and dietary challenge, rather than inherent resistance to the disease.
Nucleic acid separations utilizing immobilized metal affinity chromatography

Immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) is widely used for protein purification, e.g., in the isolation of proteins bearing the well-known hexahistidine affinity tag. We report that IMAC matrixes can also adsorb single-stranded nucleic acids through metal ion interactions with aromatic base nitrogens and propose that metal affinity technologies may find widespread application in nucleic acid technology. Oligonucleotide duplexes, plasmid, and genomic DNA show low IMAC binding affinity, while RNA and single-stranded oligonucleotides bind strongly to matrixes such as Cu(II) iminodiacetic acid (IDA) agarose. The affinity of yeast RNA for IDA-chelated metal ions decreases in the following order: Cu(II), Ni(II), Zn(II), and Co(II). Adsorption isotherms for 20-mer oligonucleotide homopolymers show that purines are strongly favored over pyrimidines and that double-stranded duplexes are not bound. IMAC columns have been used to purify plasmid DNA from E. coli alkaline lysates, to purify a ribozyme, to remove primers and imperfect products from PCR reactions, and to separate 20-mer oligonucleotide duplexes containing centered single-base mismatches. Potential further applications include SNP scoring, hybridization assays, and the isolation of polyadenylated messenger RNA.