cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Individual Brain Maturity Using fMRI

Group functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging (fcMRI) studies have documented reliable changes in human functional brain maturity over development. Here we show that support vector machine-based multivariate pattern analysis extracts sufficient information from fcMRI data to make accurate predictions about individuals' brain maturity across development. The use of only 5 minutes of resting-state fcMRI data from 238 scans of typically developing volunteers (ages 7 to 30 years) allowed prediction of individual brain maturity as a functional connectivity maturation index. The resultant functional maturation curve accounted for 55% of the sample variance and followed a nonlinear asymptotic growth curve shape. The greatest relative contribution to predicting individual brain maturity was made by the weakening of short-range functional connections between the adult brain's major functional networks.
Outcome of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Unstable Angina Pectoris Versus Stable Angina Pectoris in Two Different Time Periods

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for unstable angina pectoris (UAP) has traditionally been associated with a higher risk of ischemic complications than that for stable angina pectoris (SAP). However, PCI procedures have evolved, so this study was designed to determine whether PCI for UAP is still associated with less favorable outcomes. In-hospital and 1-year outcomes in Dynamic Registry patients who presented for PCI with UAP (n = 2,994) or SAP (n = 1,457) between 1997 and 2002 were compared. One-year results were also compared with consecutive patients who underwent angioplasty (n = 2,431) from the 1985 to 1986 Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty Registry. Although Dynamic Registry patients with UAP were older and more likely to smoke (p
The magnetosphere of Saturn

Characterizations of the Saturn magnetospheric activities that have been made possible through data gathered by means of the Pioneer 11 and Voyagers 1 and 2 flybys are reviewed. The spacecraft data confirmed the presence of a Saturn magnetosphere, which features inward diffusion and energization of trapped energetic particles as well as cosmic ray albedo neutron decay as a source of inner belt protons. A dense plasma was identified in the region covering the outer magnetosphere to the magnetopause, which extends outward 17.3-23.6 Saturn radii on the sunward side and from 30.3-70 radii on the far side, according to the satellite measurements. Characteristics of the particle populations and behaviors of the outer magnetosphere, the slot region, the inner magnetosphere, and the ring region are reviewed, as are those of the magnetic field, the solar wind-magnetospheric interaction, and the Titan-magnetospheric interaction are described. Further investigation of the longitudinal asymmetry of decimetric radio emissions from Saturn is recommended.
Medical comorbidity in elderly psychiatric inpatients.

A multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluation was performed for 868 older psychiatric inpatients during a 46-month interval. A total of 402 (46%) met DSM-III-R criteria for organic mental disorders, 329 (38%) had mood disorders, 90 (10%) had psychotic disorders, and 47 (5%) had other mental disorders or conditions. Concurrent medical problems were systematically assessed and classified according to ICD-9-CM criteria. The patients suffered from a mean of 5.6 ± 3.1 (SD) active medical problems (range 0–18). This level of medical comorbidity was significantly greater than that of older psychiatric outpatients and comparable to that of elderly inpatients in general medical hospitals. When the effects of age and education were controlled for, there were no significant differences in mean numbers of medical problems among the four groups of psychiatric inpatients. An association of major depression with diseases of the digestive system was observed and may be related to peripheral autonomic dysregulation.
The effect of surface curvature on wound healing in bone: II. The critical size defect.

Two related models are studied for wound healing on a spherical surface. The first, and simpler model is based on a reaction-diffusion equation describing the process of healing as the inward growth of new cells from a circular wound on a spherical surface. Several aspects of the wound healing problem are considered: by interpreting the healing process as a ''pseudowave'' propagating across the spherical surface a heuristic account of the ''speed'' of healing is possible, and the corresponding healing time is characterized. Of particular importance in relation to animal models is the existence (or not) of a critical size defect (a CSD, defined below); this is discussed as a consequence of the stability of the steady states of the system to nonuniform spatial (or angular) perturbations. Explicit criteria are derived under which a CSD exists (within the model) in terms of the skull radius and wound radius. Although neither model explicitly distinguishes between wound healing in bone or tissue, it is in the former that CSDs are known to occur. The second model invokes a weighted spatial average cell density which permits the presence of both a short-range activation term (as in the first model) and a long-range inhibition term. Under these circumstances, within a suitable parameter range, the phenomenon of aggregation may occur in addition to the behavior predicted by the first model. It is suggested that such aggregation is manifested in the case of keloid scarring, which can occur as a result of wound healing in tissue.
A Comparison of dispersion quality control charts

The problem of detecting shifts in the process variability has not received as much attention as that of detecting shifts in the process mean of continuous production processes, even though it is important in the context of quality control. We examine and compare shewhart s (1931) and Page s (1963) procedures for detecting shifts in variability based on the sample range (R-charts), with procedures based on the sample standard deviation (S-charts). The underlying process control variables are assumed to be normally distributed. We also compare Cumulative Sum (CUSUM) procedures using sample ranges and sample standard deviations. We shall show by average run length (ARL) comparisons that procedures based on the sample standard deviation detect shifts from target value more quickly than procedures based on the sample range.
An indirect flow cytometric test for detection of anti-neutrophil antibodies in dogs

Objective—To develop a clinically applicable assay for detection of serum anti-neutrophil antibodies in dogs. Sample Population—Serum samples of 20 healthy dogs and 20 sick dogs. Procedures—An indirect immunofluorescence assay was developed in which canine serum was incubated with paraformaldehyde-fixed neutrophils and subsequently incubated with fluorescein-conjugated rabbit anti-dog IgG. Neutrophil median fluorescence intensity and the percentage of neutrophils with an increase in fluorescence intensity were determined by use of a flow cytometer. Results—Neutrophils incubated with serum from healthy and sick dogs had a normally distributed curve when displayed as a histogram. Alloantibodies or immune complexes that significantly affected test results were not detected. Hyperglobulinemia did not appear to affect test results. The neutrophil donor did not significantly affect test results. With 1 exception, results for the sick dogs did not differ appreciably from those for healthy dogs. Serum from a dog ...
Nutrition Care for Newborns with Congenital Heart Disease

Those health care professionals entrusted with the care of infants with congenital heart disease require an understanding of the unique nutritional needs of this population. This article defines the congenital, physiologic, and nutritional variables encountered in this population. The nutritional needs, multi-factorial sources of undernutrition, and consequences of inadequate nutrition in infants with congenital heart disease are discussed, as well as medical and nutritional management strategies intended to optimize growth and reduce morbidity.
Chloroperoxidase Mediated Halogenation of Phenols

Halophenols are among the many varied types of halogenated organic compounds occurring in the ecosystem. Primarily because of pollution research, the chlorophenols found in most environmental samples are believed to be the result of man-related activities. However, several of the halophenols also have a natural origin. Since environmental investigation of halogenated pollutants usually leads to the ultimate source(s) of these substances, careful assessment must be made regarding the presence, causes and effects of halophenols found in the biosphere. The emerging picture strongly indicates that many organisms contain haloperoxidase enzymes which catalyze the formation of a carbon-halogen covalent bond leading to the formation of halogenated natural products. In this study, the authors employed a fungal enzyme, chloroperoxidase (CPO) obtained from Caldariomyces fumago. Chloroperoxidase has been well utilized as a model in the study of biological halogenation. Their intent was to use the enzyme as a means to predict potential halogenation of phenols in the ecosystem.
Does the technique of distal anastomosis influence clinical outcomes in acute type A aortic dissection

The purpose of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes of two different surgical techniques for the repair of acute type A dissection: open distal anastomosis under deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) compared with distal aortic clamping on hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass (ACPB). Between January 2000 and July 2008, 82 patients underwent DHCA and 42 had ACPB. Major morbidity, operative mortality and five-year actuarial survival were compared between groups. There were no significant differences in the preoperative characteristics. Operative mortality (17% in DHCA vs. 21% in ACPB, P=0.63), reoperation for bleeding (20% in DHCA vs. 34% in ACPB, P=0.16) and stroke rates (16 DHCA vs. 24% in ACPB, P=0.33) were comparable between the two groups. Actuarial five-year survival rates were 74% for DHCA vs. 73% for ACPB, P=0.99. No significant differences in operative mortality, major morbidity and actuarial five-year survival were observed between DHCA and ACPB. There are some practical technical advantages if the distal anastomosis is performed in an open manner. More studies are required to determine the fate of the false lumen between the two techniques.
Importance of k-space trajectory on Off resonance artifact in echo-planar velocity imaging

Summary Top-down and center-out echo planar imaging (EPI) trajectories were thoroughly studied in theory, phantom scans, and volunteer scans to establish a clear understanding of the manifestation of off-resonance artifacts. Background EPI is a highly efficient data acquisition technique, but is sensitive to off-resonance. In cardiac and flow imaging, field inhomogeneity is typically 70Hz in the myocardium and 100+ Hz in the blood pool at 1.5T(1). Choice of kspace trajectories is important; the center-out trajectory is often recommended over top-down to minimize TE and thereby maximize signal and minimize flow and motion error accumulation. Previous work has noted higher artifact with the center-out trajectory (2) although a comprehensive and systematic description is lacking.
The binding of bovine platelet aggregating factor to human platelets

Abstract Bovine platelet-aggregating factor was labeled with 125 I by the solid phase lactoperoxidase method with full retention of biological activity. The unlabeled platelet-aggregating factor was shown to compete with labeled platelet-aggregating factor in binding to fresh or formalin-fixed platelets. Scatchard saturation analysis revealed two classes of binding sites with dissociation constants of 0.4 and 6.5 nM and estimated 3,000 high affinity and 12,000 low affinity sites. Ristocetin (1.25 mg/ml) enhanced the binding of PAF to both washed and formalinized platelets by increasing the apparent number of both high and low affinity binding sites, while stimulating the rate of aggregation induced by platelet-aggregating factor on both washed and fixed platelets. Binding of platelet-aggregating factor to platelets was rapid with maximal binding at ten minutes. Rabbit antibody to platelet-aggregating factor formed a rapid (one minute) complex with platelet-aggregating factor which sedimented following ten minutes' centrifugtion at 8,700 g. This complex was soluble in antibody excess.
Combining primary and secondary poison prevention in one initiative.

Objective. Contrary to the recommendations of the Institute of Medicine (IOM) report on Forging a Poison Prevention and Control System, a certified regional poison information center combined both ...
Thermodynamic investigation of trisodium uranium (V) oxide (Na3UO4) II. Heat capacity, entropy, and enthalpy increment from 5 to 350 K. Gibbs energy of formation at 298.15 K

Abstract The heat capacity of a sample of Na3UO4 was measured from 5 to 350 K with an adiabatic calorimeter. The result near 30 K, where UO2 has a sharp λ-type anomaly, indicated the presence of (0.68±0.06) mass per cent UO2, and a correction for this amount of UO2 was applied to the experimental heat capacities. The following values were obtained for pure Na3UO4: heat capacity at constant pressure: Cp(298.15 K)=(173.0±0.4) J K−1 mol−1; entropy So(298.15 K)=(198.2±0.4) J K−1 mol−1; enthalpy increment: {Ho(298.15 K)−Ho(0)}=(31109±62) J mol−1; Gibbs energy divided by temperature value for the entropy of Na3UO4 with the entropies of Na, U, and O2 and with the enthalpy of formation of Na3UO4 reported by O'Hare, Shinn, Mrazek, and Martin yields −(448.0±1.0) kcalth mol−1 for the Gibbs energy of formation ΔGfo(Na3UO4, c, 298.15 K).
Knowledge-based public health situation awareness

There have been numerous efforts to create comprehensive databases from multiple sources to monitor the dynamics of public health and most specifically to detect the potential threats of bioterrorism before widespread dissemination. But there are not many evidences for the assertion that these systems are timely and dependable, or can reliably identify man made from natural incident. One must evaluate the value of so called 'syndromic surveillance systems' along with the costs involved in design, development, implementation and maintenance of such systems and the costs involved in investigation of the inevitable false alarms1. In this article we will introduce a new perspective to the problem domain with a shift in paradigm from 'surveillance' toward 'awareness'. As we conceptualize a rather different approach to tackle the problem, we will introduce a different methodology in application of information science, computer science, cognitive science and human-computer interaction concepts in design and development of so called 'public health situation awareness systems'. We will share some of our design and implementation concepts for the prototype system that is under development in the Center for Biosecurity and Public Health Informatics Research, in the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. The system is based on a knowledgebase containing ontologies with different layers of abstraction, from multiple domains, that provide the context for information integration, knowledge discovery, interactive data mining, information visualization, information sharing and communications. The modular design of the knowledgebase and its knowledge representation formalism enables incremental evolution of the system from a partial system to a comprehensive knowledgebase of 'public health situation awareness' as it acquires new knowledge through interactions with domain experts or automatic discovery of new knowledge.
Mineral sequences in precipitation/dissolution waves

A theory for flow through permeable media with equilibrium precipitation/dissolution interactions is rigorously established. The general solution in terms of waves, which represent the propagation of concentration changes is developed, and the detailed structure of a precipitation/dissolution wave in the presence of dissipation (diffusion and dispersion) is derived; this structure plays a vital role in the general solution. The solution is based on Riemann invariants and thus exhibits certain similarities to wave solutions of related problems in gas dynamics and chromatography. However, a discontinuity peculiar to the precipitation/dissolution problem prevents unification of these similar solutions into a single, more general theory.
Development of a real-time radiological area monitoring network for emergency response at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

A real-time radiological sensor network for emergency response was developed and deployed at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). The real-time radiological area monitoring (RTRAM) network comprises 16 Geiger-Mueller sensors positioned on the LLNL Livermore site perimeter to continuously monitor for a radiological condition resulting from a terrorist threat to site security and the health and safety of LLNL personnel. The RTRAM network sensor locations coincide with wind sector directions to provide thorough coverage of the one-square-mile site. These low-power sensors are supported by a central command center (CCC) and transmit measurement data back to the CCC computer through the LLNL telecommunications infrastructure. Alarm conditions are identified by comparing current data with predetermined threshold parameters and are validated by comparison with plausible dispersion modeling scenarios and prevailing meteorological conditions. Emergency response personnel are notified of alarm conditions by automatic radio- and computer-based notifications. A secure intranet provides emergency response personnel with current condition assessment data that enable them to direct field response efforts remotely. The RTRAM network has proven to be a reliable system since initial deployment in August 2001, and it maintains stability during inclement weather conditions.
New maps of development: new visions of maturity

Two modes of moral reasoning are distinguished in boys' and girls' discussions of moral dilemmas: one oriented to justice and rights, one to care and response. These different modes are associated with different forms of self-definition and reflect different images of relationships. The contrasting images of hierarchy and web derive from childhood experiences of inequality and interdependence which give rise to the ideals of justice and of care. The representation of these two lines of development and their interplay yields a new mapping of human growth.
Control and interfaces for an all-optical network testbed

We describe some of the control and interface techniques employed in the construction of an all-optical network testbed fielded in the Boston metropolitan area. The network was developed by a consortium of AT&T Bell Laboratories, Digital Equipment Corporation, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology under a grant from ARPA. The network testbed contains local, and metropolitan area nodes that support optical broadcast and routing modes. Electronic access is provided through optical terminals that support multiple services having data rates between 10 Mbps/user and 10 Gbps/user. Applications include video, support for ATM traffic, and telemedicine applications.
Frequency, magnitude, and distribution of head impacts in Pop Warner football: The cumulative burden

Abstract Background A growing body of research suggests that subconcussive head impacts or repetitive mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) can have cumulative and deleterious effects. Several studies have investigated head impacts in football at the professional, collegiate, and high school levels, in an attempt to elucidate the biomechanics of head impacts among football players. Youth football players, generally from 7 to 14 years of age, constitute 70% of all football players, yet burden of, and susceptibility to, head injury in this population is not well known. Methods A novel impact sensor utilizing binary force switches (Shockbox®) was used to follow an entire Pop Warner football team consisting of twenty-two players for six games and five practices. The impact sensor was designed to record impacts with linear accelerations over 30g. In addition, video recording of games and practices were used to further characterize the head impacts by type of position (skilled versus unskilled), field location of impact (open field versus line of scrimmage), type of hit (tackling, tackled, or hold/push), and whether the impact was a head-to-head impact or not. Results We recorded a total of 480 head impacts. An average of 21.8 head impacts occurred per practice, while 61.8 occurred per game. Players had an average of 3.7 head impacts per game and 1.5 impacts per practice (p 80g) was 11. Two concussions were diagnosed over the course of the season. However, due to technical reasons the biomechanics of those hits resulting in concussions were not captured. Conclusion Despite smaller players and slower play when compared to high school, collegiate or professional players, those involved in youth football sustain a moderate number of head impacts per season with several high magnitude impacts. Our results suggest that players involved in open-field, tackling plays that have head-to-head contact sustain impacts with the highest linear accelerations. Our data supports previously published data that suggests changes to the rules of play during practice can reduce the burden of hits.
Reconstruction in diffraction imaging

The problem of reconstruction in imaging systems that are modeled using the Helmholtz wave equation (diffraction imaging) is addressed. A spectral analysis of the available diffraction data is presented to help develop algorithms and constraints on a diffraction imaging system's parameters for accurate reconstruction of the desired image. Means of reducing the execution time of these algorithms and their relationship to currently available filtered backpropagation and unified Fourier reconstruction methods are also discussed. >
Coarse gain recurrent integrator model for sensorimotor cortical command generation

The coarsely sampled inverse Jacobian, or "coarse gain" recurrent integrator command generator (CGRICG) model is a preliminary proposal for motor command generation in the sensorimotor cortex during unloaded horizontal reaching movements based significantly upon implicit coordinate transformation. The core of the model is an integrator that in negative feedback configuration performs approximate differentiation of a central movement trajectory command. Together with an accurate forward kinematic model and a distribution and scaling network that is only coarsely tuned in relation to movement direction, the feedback configuration achieves inverse kinematic transformation implicitly throughout the workspace. Simulations of the CGRICG directing motion of a six-muscle, two-joint arm model reproduce gross kinematic features of human and primate arm movement as well as plausible neurophysiological signals in internal sensorimotor cortical neurons. The CGRICG model suggests that cortical network connection strengths may be adapted to improve straightness of motion without affecting final target location.
Environmental regulation in transmission-constrained electricity markets

We discuss potential competitive effects of regulating carbon emissions in a transmission constrained electricity market. We compare two regulatory instruments, renewable portfolio standards and taxing emmissions. We derive general conclusions about impacts on prices and output on a three node network. We find that renewable portfolio standards increase the market power of nonpolluting generators whereas the tax is market-power neutral. We verify our conclusions through simulations.
Management and Plug and Play of Sensor Networks Using SNMP

Recently, the network management of sensor nodes has gained interest as more sensors are being networked with Internet technologies as opposed to traditional instrumentation and measurement networks. Sensor networking standardization efforts lead a more interoperable way of identification and communication among sensors, and networking technologies provide multiple-access mechanisms to a high number of sensors. The convergence of sensor networking toward internetworking provides flexibility in protocol development for network management. This paper presents a novel demonstration of such a convergence by utilizing a common network management protocol, i.e., Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), and a sensor networking standardization effort, i.e., Transducer Electronic Data Sheet (TEDS). The TEDS information for two types of sensors has been transferred to the SNMP domain through a novel management information base design, and the network management system has been implemented on an actual testbed.
Crystallaria cincotta, a new species of darter (Teleostei: Percidae) from the Elk River of the Ohio River drainage, West Virginia

A new species of percid, Crystallaria cincotta, is described from the Cumberland, Elk, Green, and Muskingum river drainages of the Ohio River basin, USA. It differs from populations of Crystallaria asprella of the Gulf Coast, lower Mississippi River, middle Mississippi River, upper Mississippi River, and Wabash River drainages by having a reduced number of cheek scale rows restricted to the post-orbital region, a falcate margin on the pelvic fins, a preorbital blotch distinctly separate from the anterior orbital rim, and a wide mouth gape. The Elk River population is also divergent genetically from populations of the Gulf Coast, lower Mississippi River, and upper Mississippi River drainages. Crystallaria cincotta, discovered in the Elk River of the Ohio River drainage in 1980, is a rare species with the only extant population represented by 12 individuals collected from 1980–2005 from the lower 36 km section of the Elk River, West Virginia.
Allocation and morphological responses to resource manipulations are unlikely to mitigate shade intolerance in Houstonia montana, a rare southern Appalachian herb

High light requirements limit the distribution of several rare plant species endemic to the southern Appalachian region. We studied the influence of light and nitrogen availability on carbon alloca...
Sharing the squid: tangible workplace collaboration

Effective communication is central in building trust and negotiating differences in diverse, multidisciplinary working environments. In this paper we discuss a tangible mediated environment designed to facilitate positive social interaction between colleagues in a research workplace. Through our multi-user tangible interface in the form of a plush squid, participants can share media resources and collaborate in a playful and inviting setting. Results from preliminary studies indicate that playful mediated work environments stimulate constructive discourse, strengthen social bonds, and enhance creative output.
Regulation of Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1 Expression in Human Endometrial Stromal Cells by Integrin-Dependent Cell Adhesion

Shed menstrual endometrium is viable and has the ability to implant and grow in women, who eventually develop endometriosis. Many of the cell-to-cell or cell-to-extracellular matrix (ECM) connections are mediated by integrins. Monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, a potent chemotactic factor produced in many cell types, is elevated in the peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis. In this study, we investigated whether endometrial stromal cell (ESC) adhesion itself induces the expression of MCP-1 and whether this process is integrin mediated. ESC were plated on Petri dishes and 24-well plates coated with fibronectin, laminin, collagen IV, poly-L-lysine, or mouse anti-human integrin beta(1) and beta(2) monoclonal antibodies. Adherence of ESC to various ECM substrates, except for poly-L-lysine, a non-integrin-dependent adhesion matrix, induced the expression of MCP-1 at both mRNA and protein levels. Engagement of beta(1)-containing integrins was associated with ESC adhesion and resulted in up-regulation of MCP-1 gene expression and protein secretion. Disruption of the actin cytoskeleton by treating ESC with cytochalasin D completely blocked the increase of MCP-1 induced in response to integrin activation. These findings indicate a novel mechanism of MCP-1 regulation. Cell adhesion to ECM is an important event that leads to stimulation of MCP-1 expression, and this process is mediated by integrins.
The Regulation of the Defamation of Public Figures in Europe, with Special Emphasis on the Hungarian Legal System

This study presents the international background of the defamation of public figures. Then it provides a brief overview of the solutions applied in specific European countries, broken down by the most important problems. Later sections take a closer look at the Hungarian regulations and the jurisprudence of the Constitutional Court (CC) and ordinary courts, and examine the Strasbourg cases relating to Hungary, but with lessons for those outside the country too.
Application of GPC in the Study of Stereospecific Block Copolymers

Abstract Three different techniques involved in the preparation of Stereospecific block copolymers were studied using gel permeation chromatography (GPC). These techniques involved the use of a monofunctional organo-lithium catalyst, a difunctional organolithium catalyst, and a combination of a monofunctional organolithium catalyst and a coupling technique. GPC curves were obtained on the block copolymers using two different column sequences and solvents. The ABA block copolymers studied contained styrene, vinyl toluene, or α-methyl styrene as thermoplastic monomers and butadiene as the elastomeric monomer. The results obtained showed that block copolymers prepared using monomers and catalyst systems free of impurities generally exhibited single peaked GPC curves. In systems where impurities were found to be present, small amounts of A block homopolymer and AB block copolymer were formed. In such cases, the GPC curves were observed to have two or three peaks.
Tropospheric ozone profiles from a ground-based ultraviolet spectrometer : a new retrieval method

We present, to the best of our knowledge, a new method to retrieve tropospheric ozone (O3) profiles from ground-based ultraviolet spectroscopic measurements. This method utilizes radiance spectra in the Huggins bands (i.e., 300-340 nm) measured at three off-axis angles (e.g., 45°,75°, and 85°) normalized to direct-Sun irradiances or zenith-sky radiances with the total column O3 derived from direct-Sun or zenith-sky measurements as a constraint. The vertical resolution of the retrieved O3 values ranges from ∼3 km near the surface to ∼12 km at 20 km altitude. This method can be used to measure diurnal variation of tropospheric O3 profiles and is complementary to the Umkehr method that mainly measures ozone profiles in the stratosphere.
Infliximab monotherapy in psoriasis: A case of rapid clinical and histological response

Background Psoriasis is a common chronic relapsing, inflammatory, hyperproliferative skin disorder with genetic predisposition. There is currently no experimental model for psoriasis and the pathogenesis is not fully understood. Psoriatic plaques have been shown to contain increased levels of cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy with infliximab has been shown to be highly effective in recalcitrant psoriasis. Methods We evaluated the efficacy and timeline of histological changes in a psoriatic plaque following infliximab infusion. A patient with severe recalcitrant plaque psoriasis was clinically and histologically assessed for improvement. Results We found rapid clinical improvement with infliximab accompanied by histopathological changes. The earliest effects were seen on neutrophils and lymphocytes whereas keratinocyte normalization was not evident at the early stages. Conclusion Infliximab is not only an effective agent in the treatment of psoriasis but appears to have a very rapid onset of action.
Technique for realizing specific radiation patterns of antennas operating in mobile phones and topside environments

A novel technique for realizing specified patterns radiated by antenna systems located on a given platform, such as mobile phone or shipboard topside environment is presented in this work. The proposed technique is based on the use of Characteristic Basis Functions (CBFs) that are extracted from the solutions for the current distributions generated by placing the user-specified antenna elements, e.g., a monopole or a PIFA at "allowable" locations on the antenna platform. Some examples illustrating the application of the CBF approach to antenna pattern synthesis in a systematic manner are presented in the paper and a comparison of the present technique with that based on the use of the Characteristic mode approach is included.
Reactor Neutron Activation Cross Sections for a Number of Elements

Experimentally determined reactor neutron activation cross sections found by use of the ORNL Graphite Reactor are listed. The general method of measurement is described. (auth)
Buckling and Failure of Compression-loaded Composite Cylindrical Shells with Reinforced Cutouts

Results from a numerical and experimental study that illustrate the effects of selected cutout reinforcement configurations on the buckling and failure response of compression-loaded composite cylindrical shells with a cutout are presented. The effects of reinforcement size, thickness, and orthotropy on the overall response of compression-loaded shells are described. In general, reinforcement around a cutout in a compression-loaded shell can retard or eliminate the local buckling response and material failure near the cutout and increase the buckling load of the shell. However, some results show that certain reinforcement configurations can cause a significant increase in the local interlaminar failures that can accumulate near the free edges of a cutout during a local buckling event.
The Structure of Political Thinking: A Multidimensional Model

Abstract The debate over whether or not the political belief system of the general public is in fact unidimentional is more than twenty years old and still unresolved. On the other hand, the assumption that political thinking should be unidimensional has been uncontroversial. This is intriguing since a unidimensional model of political thinking is inconsistent with what we know about politics — that it is an arena of multiple conflicting interests. It is also incompatible with what we know about the structuring of human perception — that it is context dependent. In this paper an argument is made that political consciousness should be characterized by multiple intersecting dimensions representing 1) basic conflicts in interest over class, gender, and community relations; 2) the social cleavage between dominance and nurturance, and 3) a distinction between the abstract analyses available to people and their sympathies in concrete situations. A model incorporating these dimensions is tested by means of a LIS...
Colonial Breeding in the Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) and Its Adaptive Significance

Social patterns in the swallow family (Hirundinidae) involve varying degrees of gregariousness during the breeding season. Some species, such as the Bank Swallow (Riparia riparia) and the Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota), breed in dense colonies of up to several hundred pairs. Other species, like the Tree Swallow (Iridoprocne bicolor) and the Rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis), are solitary breeders. A third pattern of social behavior is that of breeding in small colonies of variable size. The Barn Swal-
Cationic antimicrobial (ε-polylysine)-anionic polysaccharide (pectin) interactions: influence of polymer charge on physical stability and antimicrobial efficacy.

The cationic biopolymer e-polylysine (e-PL) is a potent food-grade antimicrobial that is highly effective against a range of food pathogens and spoilage organisms. In compositionally complex systems such as foods and beverages, cationic e-PL molecules may associate with anionic substances, leading to increased turbidity, sediment formation, and reduced antimicrobial activity. This study therefore characterized the interactions between cationic e-PL and anionic pectins with different degrees of esterification (DE) and then investigated the influence of these interactions on the antimicrobial efficacy of e-PL. The nature of the interactions was characterized using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), microelectrophoresis (ME), and turbidity measurements. High (DE 61%), medium (DE 51%), and low (DE 42%) methoxyl pectins interacted with e-PL molecules through electrostatic forces, forming either soluble or insoluble complexes with various electrical charges, depending on the relative mass ratio of pectin and e-PL. The interaction of pectin with e-PL increased as the negative charge density on the pectin molecules increased, that is, with decreasing DE. The antimicrobial efficacy of e-PL against two acid-resistant spoilage yeasts (Zygosaccharomyces bailii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) decreased progressively in the presence of increasing levels of all three pectins. Nevertheless, the low DE pectin decreased the antimicrobial efficacy of e-PL much more dramatically, likely due to strong electrostatic binding of e-PL onto low DE pectin molecules reducing its interaction with anionic microbe surfaces. This study provides knowledge that will facilitate the rational application of e-PL as an antimicrobial in complex food systems.
Beyond economic globalization in Mohsin Hamid’s How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia: The false promise of self-help and possibilities through reading with a creative mind:

This article argues that Mohsin Hamid’s How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia functions as a strategic parody of a self-help book that comments on economic globalization’s failures and in turn illustrates the violence that it produces. Although globalization is detrimental to individuals and relatively inescapable within the world of Hamid’s text, opportunities for reading creatively can counter its detriments. Hence, creative ways of reading provide alternatives to buying into the globalized and ever-globalizing capitalist system — alternatives that Hamid suggests his readers should embrace.
Analysis of drinking water quality in Hulunbeier City from 2004 to 2008

Objective: Hulunbeier City from 2004 to 2008 to monitor the results of drinking water analysis,For health supervision in accordance with the law enforcement sector,In a targeted manner so that the departments concerned to do a good job of living of the health management of drinking water.Methods:In accordance with the 《Drinking Water for Health and norms》or GB/T5750-2006 《drinking water standard test method》 for detection,2004~2008 Hulunbeir Center for Disease Control and Prevention to the site of sampling and inspection Units were detected drinking water Hulunbeir test data for statistical analysis.Results:Oxygen passing rate of 35.96% qualified,77.98% passing rate of turbidity,the passing rate of 54.89% iron,manganese 60.69% pass rate,pass rate of 57.95% nitrogen,75.98 percent pass rate of color.Conclusion:For poor quality of Hulunbeir drinking water,Government investment in 2008 to carry out water projects,find new sources of water,and do a good job in dealing with the work of purification.
Dance Trends: Could There Be Advanced Placement Dance Classes in High School?

Many students take a proliferation of Advanced Placement (AP) classes throughout their high school experience, a curriculum of standardized courses offered by high schools that are intended to be e...
A Framework for Considering Social, Political and Economic Factors in Risk Assessments

The importance of making accurate risk assessments has grown during the past several decades. The rapid-paced introduction of new technologies and their unprecedented influence over the health and safety of societies have created a dilemma for those attempting to understand the full range of the consequences of these changes. Shorter time frames and more complex systems inhibit efforts to assess the risks inherent in these changes. For decades, people believed that technologies could solve any problem. Society virtually personified technologies instead of perceiving them as nothing more than instruments in the hands of humans. This “love affair” with technology blinded most people to its dark side or, at the very least, to the possibilities of its having harmful as well as beneficial effects.
Some kinds of childhood: images of history and resistance in Zimbabwean literature

Robert Muponde, a Zimbabwean literary scholar now based at the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa, recently published his first self-authored book on Zimbabwean literary history with Afric...
Impromptu Decisions to Deceive

Summary This research furthers understanding of the factors that induce individuals to choose deception. Its goals were to expand and test a recent account of the cognition of deception, Activation–Decision–Construction–Action Theory (ADCAT), in a mock job interview inviting impromptu deception. Decisions to lie are hypothesized to depend on the truth and other information activated from long-term memory by the social context. Activated information then guides evaluation of the likely costs of truth telling and benefits of deception; 166 college students participated in the job interview, who learned about the position and then adopted the role of job applicants. Afterward, participants shared their thoughts when responding to five questions from the interview. The most important findings are that the negative expectations of sharing truths and the positive expectations of sharing deceptions each account for unique variance in deciding to lie. Implications for lie reduction and detection are considered.Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacokinetics of Imipenem/Cilastatin Burn Intensive Care Unit Patients Undergoing High-Dose Continuous Venovenous Hemofiltration

tudy objective High-dose continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH) is a continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) used frequently in patients with burns. However, antibiotic dosing is based on inference from studies assessing substantially different methods of CRRT. To address this knowledge gap for imipenem/cilastatin (I/C), we evaluated the systemic and extracorporeal clearances (CLs) of I/C in patients with burns undergoing high-dose CVVH. Design Prospective clinical pharmacokinetic study. Patients Ten adult patients with burns receiving I/C for a documented infection and requiring high-dose CVVH were studied. Methods Blood and effluent samples for analysis of I/C concentrations were collected for up to 6 hours after the I/C infusion for calculation of I/C total CL (CLTotal), CL by CVVH (CLHF), half-life during CVVH, volume of distribution at steady state (Vdss), and the percentage of drug eliminated by CVVH. Results In this patient sample, the mean age was 50 ± 17 years, total body surface area burns was 23 ± 27%, and 80% were male. Nine patients were treated with high-dose CVVH for acute kidney injury and one patient for sepsis. The mean delivered CVVH dose was 52 ± 14 ml/kg/hour (range 32–74 ml/kg/hr). The imipenem CLHF was 3.27 ± 0.48 L/hour, which accounted for 23 ± 4% of the CLTotal (14.74 ± 4.75 L/hr). Cilastatin CLHF was 1.98 ± 0.56 L/hour, which accounted for 45 ± 19% of the CLTotal (5.16 + 2.44 L/hr). The imipenem and cilastatin half-lives were 1.77 ± 0.38 hours and 4.21 ± 2.31 hours, respectively. Imipenem and cilastatin Vdss were 35.1 ± 10.3 and 32.8 ± 13.8 L, respectively. Conclusion Efficient removal of I/C by high-dose CVVH, a high overall clearance, and a high volume of distribution in burn intensive care unit patients undergoing this CRRT method warrant aggressive dosing to treat serious infections effectively depending on the infection site and/or pathogen.
Valve movement of three species of North American freshwater mussels exposed to elevated carbon dioxide

Freshwater mussels are at-risk taxa and may be exposed to high levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) because of the potential use of CO2 to control the movement of invasive aquatic fish species. One potential behavioral response to a change in the partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2) may be altered valve movement. In this study, three species of mussels were fitted with modified sensors and exposed to two regimes of pCO2 to define thresholds of impaired valve movement. The first experiment demonstrated that Pyganodon grandis were much more tolerant to rising pCO2 relative to Lampsilis siliquoidea (acute closure at ∼200,000 μatm in comparison to ∼80,000 μatm). The second experiment consisted of monitoring mussels for 6 days and exposing them to elevated pCO2 (∼70,000 μatm) over a 2-day period. During exposure to high pCO2, Lampsilis cardium were open for nearly the entire high pCO2 period. Conversely, P. grandis were closed for most of the period following exposure to high pCO2. For L. siliquoidea, the number of closures decreased nearly 40-fold during high pCO2. The valve movement responses observed suggest species differences, and exposure to elevated pCO2 requires a reactive response.
SeismoWatch: Wearable Cuffless Blood Pressure Monitoring Using Pulse Transit Time

The current norm for measuring blood pressure (BP) at home is using an automated BP cuff based on oscillometry. Despite providing a viable and familiar method of tracking BP at home, oscillometric devices can be both cumbersome and inaccurate with the inconvenience of the hardware typically limiting measurements to once or twice per day. To address these limitations, a wrist-watch BP monitor was developed to measure BP through a simple maneuver: holding the watch against the sternum to detect micro-vibrations of the chest wall associated with the heartbeat. As a pulse wave propagates from the heart to the wrist, an accelerometer and optical sensor on the watch measure the travel time -- pulse transit time (PTT) -- to estimate BP. In this paper, we conducted a study to test the accuracy and repeatability of our device. After calibration, the diastolic pressure estimations reached a root-mean-square error of 2.9 mmHg. The watch-based system significantly outperformed (p
Alzheimer disease brain atrophy subtypes are associated with cognition and rate of decline.

Objective: To test the hypothesis that cortical and hippocampal volumes, measured in vivo from volumetric MRI (vMRI) scans, could be used to identify variant subtypes of Alzheimer disease (AD) and to prospectively predict the rate of clinical decline. Methods: Amyloid-positive participants with AD from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) 1 and ADNI2 with baseline MRI scans (n = 229) and 2-year clinical follow-up (n = 100) were included. AD subtypes (hippocampal sparing [HpSp MRI ], limbic predominant [LP MRI ], typical AD [tAD MRI ]) were defined according to an algorithm analogous to one recently proposed for tau neuropathology. Relationships between baseline hippocampal volume to cortical volume ratio (HV:CTV) and clinical variables were examined by both continuous regression and categorical models. Results: When participants were divided categorically, the HpSp MRI group showed significantly more AD-like hypometabolism on 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose-PET ( p p MRI also showed faster subsequent clinical decline than participants with LP MRI on the Alzheimer9s Disease Assessment Scale, 13-Item Subscale (ADAS-Cog 13 ), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Functional Assessment Questionnaire (all p MRI on the MMSE and Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB) (both p 13 score ( p Conclusions: AD subtypes with phenotypes consistent with those observed with tau neuropathology can be identified in vivo with vMRI. An increased HV:CTV ratio was predictive of faster clinical decline in participants with AD who were clinically indistinguishable at baseline except for a greater dysexecutive presentation.