cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spherical harmonics preferential orientation corrections and structure solution from powder diffraction data – a possible avenue of last resort

Structure solution from powder diffraction data, from either real- or reciprocal-space methods, has generally been thought to require reliable relative intensities to yield a successful solution. An approach is described here which requires no input of the orientation direction when using simulated annealing. The simple addition of a keyword already present in the TOPAS macro language is all that is required to stabilize what otherwise seems like a guaranteed way to destabilize simulated annealing. A recent example with a simple molecular material showed that it is possible, but the more complicated example of triclinic 1A-wollastonite is used to demonstrate that the approach may be more generally applicable. The approach will not work in all cases, but may provide a possible approach of last resort for problems which might otherwise resist attempts at a solution.
Surgical Technique: Methods for Removing a Compress® Compliant Prestress Implant

Background The Compress® device uses a unique design using compressive forces to achieve bone ingrowth on the prosthesis. Because of its design, removal of this device may require special techniques to preserve host bone.
The solvolysis of N-acetoxy-acetanilides: the elucidation of two major reaction pathways for model ultimate carcinogens under neutral conditions

Abstract The solvolysis of a series of N-acetoxy acetanilides has been examined in aqueous dioxane. Product distributions and rate constants reveal that, in addition to a base catalyzed hydrolysis, there are two major pathways at neutral pH: NO bond cleavage to yield nitrenium ion intermediates, and acyl-oxygen cleavage which leads to hydroxamic acid.
Solution thermochemical study of ligand substitution reaction of novel pyrrolyl-substituted tertiary phosphine ligands in the L2Fe(CO)3 system

Abstract The enthalpies of reaction of (BDA)Fe(CO) 3 (BDA = (C 6 H 5 )CHCHC(O)CH 3 , benzylideneacetone) with a series of novel phosphine ligands, PPh 3− x (pyrrolyl) x ( x = 1−3) and P(pyrrolidinyl) 3 , leading to the formation of (L) 2 Fe(CO) 3 complexes (Lphosphine) have been measured by solution calorimetry in THF at 50°C. The range of reaction enthalpies spans some 32 kcal mol −1 . The overall relative order of stability established is as follows (PR 3 ; − ΔH , kcal mol −1 ): P(NC 4 H 4 ) 3 4 H 4 ) 2 Ph 4 H 4 )Ph 2 ⪡ P(NC 4 H 8 ) 3 . A quantitative analysis of ligand effect of the present and previously obtained data for L 2 Fe(CO) 3 complexes helps clarify the exact steric versus electronic ligand contributions to the enthalpy of reaction in this system. Furthermore, the present enthalpy information helps in the estimation of useful electronic parameters associated with the novel phosphine series.
Tumor Necrosis Factor α Up-regulates Non-lymphoid Fas-ligand following Superantigen-induced Peripheral Lymphocyte Activation *

Members of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and TNF receptor families play important roles in inducing apoptosis and mediating the inflammatory response. Activated T lymphocytes can trigger the expression of Fas-ligand on non-lymphoid tissue, such as intestinal epithelial cells (IEC), and this, in turn, can induce apoptosis in the T cells. Here, we examine the role of TNFα in this feedback regulation. Injection of TNFα into mice caused a rapid up-regulation of Fas-ligand mRNA in IEC. TNFα-induced activation of the Fas-ligand promoter in IEC requires NF-κB as this was blocked by an I-κBαM super-repressor and by mutation of an NF-κB site in the Fas-ligand promoter. Activation of T cells by antigen induced Fas-ligand expression in IEC in vivo in wild type, but not in TNFα−/− or TNFR1−/− mice. These results define a novel pathway wherein TNFα, produced by activated T cells in the intestine, induce Fas-ligand expression in IEC. This is the first observation that one member of the TNF superfamily mediates the regulation of another family member and represents a potential feedback mechanism controlling lymphocyte infiltration and inflammation in the small intestine.
Message from the ICSC-SCBD'15 program chair

Big Data has become a new source of opportunity in terms of Semantic Computing. Unlike traditional data sources, Big Data applications present their own unique challenges in order to appropriately harness the utility of open source frameworks including Apache Hadoop and design patterns such as Map - Reduce. Through these advances, Big Data has become ubiquitous across all areas of research allowing for new applications that were not possible earlier. The Second IEEE International Workshop on Semantic Computing with Big Data (ICSC-SCBD'15) provides a forum for researchers to present their latest research progress, exchange ideas and thoughts, and explore new research directions. It continues seeking high quality research contributions and encouraging significant work that addresses the major challenges in the semantics as applied in the context of Big Data.
Quantitative Assessment of Anguina sp. and Rathayibacter rathayi in Dactylis glomerata Seed Production Fields in Oregon and Estimates of Yield Loss

Alderman, S. C., Ocamb, C. M., and Mellbye, M. E. 2005. Quantitative assessment of Anguina sp. and Rathayibacter rathayi in Dactylis glomerata seed production fields in Oregon and estimates of yield loss. Plant Dis. 89:1313-1316. Anguina sp. is a nematode that infests the inflorescence of orchardgrass and forms galls that replace the seed. Anguina sp. is also a vector of the bacterial pathogen Rathayibacter rathayi, which causes galls or gummosis in orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata) panicles. The percentage of orchardgrass panicles infected or percentage of seed loss from Anguina sp. or R. rathayi in five commercial orchardgrass seed-production fields in Oregon during 2003 and 2004 was determined. The percentage of panicles with Anguina sp. ranged from 9 to 24%, although the percentage of seed replaced by Anguina sp. was less than 0.2%. The number of galls per panicle ranged from 1 to 29. However, more than 50% of Anguina-infested panicles contained only a single Anguina gall and few panicles had eight or more galls. The percentage of panicles with R. rathayi ranged from 3 to 27%. Percentage of seed loss from R. rathayi ranged from 0.1 to 7.3%. Seed loss in orchardgrass seed-production fields assessed for both Anguina sp. and R. rathayi was found to be as great as 8%. The number of Anguina galls remaining in fields following harvest ranged from 0 to 40 per square meter.
Separation of collagen chains and chain fragments by gel filtration.

Abstract Methods of gel filtration are described for the separation of collagen α-chains from β and γ components. These methods are also adapted to separating peptides of different sizes cleaved from collagen chains. The polypeptides are cluted in volatile buffers from heated columns of Sepharose CL or Sephacryl beads.
Research of Discharge Characteristics of CO2 Gas in Small Distance

In order to find a new kind of insulates gas to substitute for SF6 gas, a discharge device has been development with shifter electrodes and adjusts distances automatic. Uniform electric field, non-uniform electric field had been achieved in this discharge device. The power-frequency voltage-withstand test of CO2 gas has been taken in these three kinds of electric field. In this test, data of breakdown voltage were obtained under different pressure and distances of electrodes with 99.99% purity of CO2. It can be seem from these data that the value of breakdown voltage is positive correlation to pressure and distances of electrodes. Whats more? For uniform electric field, the dielectric strength meet the requirement of power-frequency voltage-withstand of 110kV gas insulation device when the distance of test electrodes no less than 30mm. For non-uniform electric field, the dielectric strength of gas insulation of CO2 gas has little difference until the pressure increased to 0.5MPa. According to the data of power-frequency voltage-withstand test it can be conclude that the 0.5MPa is a key indicator to improve the insulating properties.
Instrumentation and methods for ion and reaction monitoring using a non-scanning rectilinear ion trap

Abstract A method of single ion or single reaction monitoring which avoids high RF voltage scanning is identified and implemented in an ion trap mass spectrometer. A rectilinear ion trap (RIT) mass spectrometer was constructed and characterized and used to develop a simple method of monitoring targeted compounds without using RF voltage scanning. The ions were first isolated, and then ejected axially from the aperture in one of the z-electrodes for detection. Various ion monitoring modes, including selected ion monitoring (SIM), multiple ion monitoring (MIM), and selected reaction monitoring (SRM), are demonstrated using RF/DC isolation or waveform isolation in combination with the axial DC pulses to eject and detect ions of particular mass/charge ratios.
The Anatomy of Banking Crises

This paper uses a Binary Classification Tree (BCT) model to analyze banking crises in 50 emerging market and developing countries during 1990-2005. The BCT identifies key indicators and their threshold values at which vulnerability to banking crisis increases. The three conditions identified as crisis-prone - (i) very high inflation, (ii) highly dollarized bank deposits combined with nominal depreciation or low liquidity, and (iii) low bank profitability - highlight that foreign currency risk, poor financial soundness, and macroeconomic instability are key vulnerabilities triggering banking crises. The main results survive under alternative robustness checks, confirming the importance of the BCT approach for monitoring banking system vulnerabilities.
A two-stage estimation in the Clayton-Oakes model with marginal linear transformation models for multivariate failure time data.

This paper considers the analysis of multivariate survival data where the marginal distributions are specified by semiparametric transformation models, a general class including the Cox model and the proportional odds model as special cases. First, consideration is given to the situation where the joint distribution of all failure times within the same cluster is specified by the Clayton–Oakes model (Clayton, Biometrika 65:141–151, l978; Oakes, J R Stat Soc B 44:412–422, 1982). A two-stage estimation procedure is adopted by first estimating the marginal parameters under the independence working assumption, and then the association parameter is estimated from the maximization of the full likelihood function with the estimators of the marginal parameters plugged in. The asymptotic properties of all estimators in the semiparametric model are derived. For the second situation, the third and higher order dependency structures are left unspecified, and interest focuses on the pairwise correlation between any two failure times. Thus, the pairwise association estimate can be obtained in the second stage by maximizing the pairwise likelihood function. Large sample properties for the pairwise association are also derived. Simulation studies show that the proposed approach is appropriate for practical use. To illustrate, a subset of the data from the Diabetic Retinopathy Study is used.
A practical microbiochemical procedure for analysis of vitamin E in either solid or fluid tissues

Abstract The information presented above demonstrates the usefulness of the procedure to vitamin E research, and is also intended to encourage its application to the solution of other problems where information on the distribution of molecules that can be analyzed by mass spectrometry is important.
Comparison of Methods for Simulating Gas Forces on Moving Microbeams

The force produced by the surrounding gas on a moving cantilevered microbeam is analyzed using the Reynolds equation, the Navier-Stokes equations, and the Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method (i.e., molecular gas dynamics). It is found that the Reynolds equation underpredicts the damping coefficient compared to the Navier-Stokes equations, particularly when the gap width becomes comparable to the beam half-width. The accuracy of the Reynolds equation can be significantly improved for these conditions by modifying the pressure boundary condition applied at the edge of the beam (this modified boundary condition reverts to the original boundary condition as the gap width becomes much smaller than the beam half-width). Since continuum methods with slip boundary conditions are of uncertain accuracy for large slip velocities, DSMC simulations are performed to compare to Reynolds-equation results and Navier-Stokes simulations. The damping coefficients from DSMC simulations are generally somewhat lower than the corresponding Navier-Stokes values.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Oxidant-mediated akt activation in human RPE cells

PURPOSE. To determine whether a model oxidant, hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ), influences Akt activation and, if so, whether Akt activation promotes retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell survival. METHODS. Cultured human RPE cells were pretreated with medium alone, with LY294002 (LY), an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) and its downstream effector Akt, or with Akt/protein kinase B signaling inhibitor (API)-2, a specific Akt inhibitor, and then were stimulated with H 2 O 2 at different doses for various times. Akt phosphorylation was evaluated by Western blot using antibody against phosphorylated Akt (Ser473). The effect of Akt blockade on RPE cell viability was assessed by tetrazolium salt (WST-1) assay and a lactate dehydrognease (LDH) release assay. Caspase-mediated cytokeratin cleavage, an early apoptosis marker, was assessed by M30 antibody staining. Caspase-independent apoptosis was determined by nuclear translocation of apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF). RPE cell morphology was evaluated by electron microscopy. The effect of H 2 O 2 on downstream Akt targets was examined by Western blot using antibody against phosphorylated forkhead in rhabdomyosarcoma (FKHR) and phosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β. RESULTS. H 2 O 2 induced Akt phosphorylation in a dose-dependent manner and also induced the phosphorylation of downstream effectors FKHR and GSK-3/3. LY markedly inhibited H 2 O 2 -mediated Akt phosphorylation and significantly enhanced caspase-associated and caspase-independent RPE cell death. CONCLUSIONS. A model oxidant, H 2 O 2 , induces PI3K and thereby activates Akt. Akt activation enhances RPE cell survival and thus may protect RPE cells from oxidant-induced cell death under normal circumstances and in disease states such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Legislator Ideology and Corrections and Sentencing Policy in Florida A Research Note

Crime and sentencing are key issues confronting policy makers. Overcrowding and escalating corrections budgets have brought increased public attention on the criminal justice system. In light of this increased focus, it is important to examine what issues concern policy makers in corrections and sentencing policy decisions. The purpose of this research is to explore how Florida legislators consider crime causation, crime control, and support for rehabilitation when deciding on corrections and sentencing policy. This study also offers an initial and exploratory glance into whether policy makers consider inmate behavior and public fear when making policy decisions. Findings suggest that legislators in Florida support imprisonment as well as rehabilitation, believe in using policy to control inmate behavior, and hesitate to alter public policy toward more leniency even if public fear decreases.
Ethical behaviors of psychologists: changes since 1987.

Licensed psychologists (n = 92) in Illinois were surveyed regarding the frequency with which they engage in 82 behaviors of varying ethical appropriateness. For about one-third of the behaviors studied, results differed significantly from a similar national survey published in 1987, such that the current sample reported never engaging in the behavior more frequently than did the previous sample. These differences may be due to increased involvement of managed care in professional practice, the revised ethical code, or regional or sampling factors. Implications of these results, including the need to assess ethical norms frequently, are discussed. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Clin Psychol 57: 395–399, 2001.
Applying Stolorow's theory of intersubjectivity to Hendrix's imago techniques

Abstract In the psychological domain, intersubjectivity is defined by the intersection between differently organized subjective systems. Infant research has demonstrated that the intersubjective field is constituted by the reciprocal influence of both the infant's and the caregiver's self‐regulating systems. The work of Stolorow and his colleagues is discussed in relation to the dynamics of the dyadic system between intimate partners. The intersubjective perspective offers an empathic and pragmatic stance from which to understand how self‐structure is constantly affecting and being affected in the interaction with a significant other. Harville Hendrix's dialogue technique is described as part of a process for treating couples in which partners are taught tools for differentiated and empathic communication, thereby enacting a corrective cognitive and emotional experience.
Particle simulation of rf heating and current drive

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to review particle stimulation models and how they have been applied to study rf heating and current drive. The paper is divided into two parts. The first part will review the mathematical framework. The purpose is, first, to introduce the non-specialist to this kind of model. Secondly, I wish to point out the numerical problems, how to avoid them, and what constraints the avoidance puts on these kinds of models. In the second part of this paper, I will review how particle simulations have been applied to rf heating and current drive, in order to illustrate when such models might be appropriate to use.
A comparison of juvenile court outcomes for Native Americans, African Americans, and whites

Referrals to a district juvenile court in Iowa were examined for 1980 through 1989 to test an interpretation of Weber's theory of decision making and formal rationality. Logistic regression was employed to examine two hypotheses: 1) Native American youths and African American youths receive more severe outcomes than white youths with similar backgrounds and legal histories, and 2) Native Americans are at a greater disadvantage in general than African Americans. The findings show that youths of both minority groups receive different treatment from white youths. Although the race effects varied with the stage assessed in the proceedings, it was found that Native American youths were more likely to receive less severe outcomes than African American youths. Interviews with juvenile court decision makers were used to help explain the observed patterns.
Multiple Marginal Independence Testing for Pick Any/C Variables

Many survey questions allow respondents to pick any number out of c possible categorical responses or “items”. These kinds of survey questions often use the terminology “choose all that apply” or “pick any”. Often of interest is determining if the marginal response distributions of each item differ among r different groups of respondents. Agresti and Liu (1998, 1999) call this a test for multiple marginal independence (MMI). If respondents are allowed to pick only 1 out of c responses, the hypothesis test may be performed using the Pearson chi-square test of independence. However, since respondents may pick more or less than 1 response, the test's assumptions that responses are made independently of each other is violated. Recently, a few MMI testing methods have been proposed. Loughin and Scherer (1998) propose using a bootstrap method based on a modified version of the Pearson chi-square test statistic. Agresti and Liu (1998, 1999) propose using marginal logit models, quasisymmetric loglinear models, an...
Proliferative Response Patterns of Human Fibroblasts After Photoinjury With 4,5', 8-Trimethylpsoralen

The extent of growth suppression and recovery following exposure to 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen (TMP) plus UV-A irradiation was studied in 3 diploid human fibroblast strains. Inhibition of cellular proliferation was dose-dependent within the concentration range of TMP that was tested (1–4 × 10 −7 m), using a constant level of UV-A (0.24 J/cm 2 ). The population generation (doubling) times for all cell strains were progressively lengthened under these conditions while maximal cell densities were reduced. At 2–4 × 10 −7 m TMP in the presence of UV-A, there was a triphasic pattern of growth which consisted of (1) proliferative activity during the first 24–36 hr, followed by; (2) complete growth inhibition for variable periods of time and; (3) a recovery period of log phase proliferation that was not as vigorous as measured for untreated cells. There were also declines in the percentage of cells labeled with 3 H-Tdr at various times after TMP-UV-A treatment. These measurements were essentially identical for the three fibroblast strains evaluated. In that the cells employed for these investigations were derived from embryonic pulmonary tissue, neonatal foreskin and the buttock skin of an adult male, it seems unlikely that donor age and tissue source were important variables in determining growth response patterns after TMP-UV-A exposure. Because proliferative recovery was attenuated after this photochemical injury, we conclude that the biologic effect(s) of TMP-UV-A extend beyond the known period of psoralen-DNA cross-link removal.
Parametric constraints in multi-beam interference

Multi-beam interference (MBI) represents a method of producing one-, two-, and three-dimensional submicron periodic optical-intensity distributions for applications including micro- and nano-electronics, photonic crystals, metamaterial, biomedical structures, optical trapping, and numerous other subwavelength structures. Accordingly, numerous optical configurations have been developed to implement MBI. However, these configurations typically provide limited ability to condition the key parameters of each interfering beam. Constraints on individual beam amplitudes and polarizations are systematically considered to understand their effects on lithographically useful MBI periodic patterning possibilities. A method for analyzing parametric constraints is presented and used to compare the optimized optical-intensity distributions for representative constrained systems. Case studies are presented for both square and hexagonal-lattices produced via three-beam interference. Results demonstrate that constraints on individual-beam polarizations significantly impact patterning possibilities and must be included in the systematic design of an MBI system.
Properties of membrane-associated folded chromosomes of E. coli related to initiation and termination of DNA replication.

Abstract Analysis of folded chromosomes prepared from amino acid-starved E. coli cells or from a dnaC initiation mutant indicates that a unique structure is associated with completion or near completion of rounds of chromosome replication in E. coli. Chromosomes remain associated with portions of the bacterial cell envelope throughout the DNA replication cycle, but become more rapidly sedimenting as replication proceeds in the absence of reinitiation. Before reinitiation of chromosome replication occurs after restoring required amino acids to amino acid-starved cells or after lowering the temperature in a thermosensitive dnaC mutant, sedimentation velocities of the membrane-associated folded chromosomes decrease substantially. The decrease in sedimentation velocity does not depend on renewed DNA synthesis, but does require the activity of at least the dnaC gene product.
The effect of the Internet on civic engagement under authoritarianism: The case of Azerbaijan

This study examines civic activities under an authoritarian state — Azerbaijan — focusing on how the Internet may influence them. The role of the Internet in political and civic engagement is a subject of debate in any society. But Azerbaijan offers a unique vantage point to study the Internet’s effect on engagement because it views the Internet as an extension of sovereign dominion and controls online discussions. The government maintains the same view of the Internet as it does towards non–governmental engagement: it is unacceptable because it occurs outside state parameters. Using two nationally representative datasets from 2011, logistic regression analysis found that the Internet is associated with public civic engagement (and some forms of private civic engagement) but not with political government engagement. All results were robust to demographic controls, strengthening confidence that the Internet was at least indicative of, if not contributory to, civic life in Azerbaijan outside of the government.
GUI: GPS-Less Traffic Congestion Avoidance in Urban Areas with Inter-Vehicular Communication

Driving in an urban canyon can be frustrating when your GPS teller keeps telling you to make a turn at the place that you just passed, because the information transmission is deferred by the wireless signal reflecting off of buildings and other interfering objects. In this paper, we provide a practical solution for turn-to-turn guidance with inter-vehicle communication in vehicle ad-hoc networks (VANETs). Vehicles collect information from neighbors and catch the snapshot to describe the global impact of traffic congestions, in the presence of unpredictable changes of topology and vehicle trajectory. Without any centralized control, the information can be aggregated along the traffic flow and be disseminated in a minimal area, while sufficiently guiding each vehicle to achieve a global optimization on its path, and to remain on a non-blocked route. The information constitution is implemented in the proactive model, saving the delay of reconstruction in the reactive model (on-demand). Its substantial improvement on the elapsed time will be shown in the experimental results, compared with the best results known to date in both proactive and reactive information models.
A novel method for the preparation of Ru(bpy)32+-doped silica nanoparticles

A novel method for the preparation of spherical Ru(bpy)(2+)(3) -doped silica nanoparticles with adjustable diameters and narrow particle size distribution with high yield was developed. Unlike the most commonly used Stober method which uses a reverse microemulsion system (oil-based, NH4OH as a catalyst, pH 11-12), the proposed method synthesizes the nanoparticles in a water-based system (pH 9-10) using L-lysine as a catalyst in the presence of the dye. Both the size of the spherical dye-doped nanoparticles and the Ru(bpy)(2+)(3) content which is incorporated in silica nanoparticles are precisely controlled by the multiple-step addition of tetraethyl orthosilicate and Ru(bpy)(2+)(3) solution, respectively. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Thoracoscopic Repair of Neonatal Diaphragmatic Hernia

Abstract Introduction: The use of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) in the neonatal population is increasing. Thoracoscopic intervention for congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is no exception. In...
E-053 Anomalous origin of the middle meningeal artery from mid-basilar artery

Introduction The middle meningeal artery (MMA) most commonly originates from the maxillary artery and travels through the foramen spinosum. Most variants have been noted to originate from the ophthalmic artery or the internal carotid artery. Rarely, an origin from the basilar artery has been observed. Here we present the case of anomalous origin of the MMA from the basilar artery in a pediatric patient with left facial hemangioma also supplied by the aberrant basilar branch in the setting of PHACES syndrome. Case history A 2-year-old female toddler with a left facial hemangioma and left lid lag presented for diagnostic cerebral angiogram to further characterize a large fusiform left posterior communicating artery aneurysm with involvement of the left internal carotid artery, anterior cerebral artery (ACA), middle cerebral artery (MCA) and posterior cerebral artery (PCA). We here report a case of anomalous origin of the MMA from the basilar artery with literature review. Methods and results Intracranial MR angiography, digitally subtracted cerebral angiography, including rotational three-dimensional angiography, with a left internal carotid artery injection and left vertebral artery injection was performed. A large fusiform left posterior communicating artery aneurysm was noted with involvement of the carotid terminus, as well as proximal aspects of the left ACA, MCA and PCA. Additionally, a large branch off the basilar artery at the level of the pons was noted originating between the left superior cerebellar artery and the left anterior inferior cerebellar artery, both of which were relatively diminutive. The vessel traveled anteriorly through the cavernous sinus and into the middle cranial fossa where it branched into the MMA and a vessel that traveled through the optic canal and exited beneath the superior orbital rim to supply the large left facial hemangioma. No associated intracranial vascular malformation was noted. Conclusion We describe a rare case of anomalous origin of the MMA from the basilar artery in a pediatric patient, in the setting of PHACES syndrome. Only seven cases of the MMA originating from the basilar artery have been reported previously, including one case of bilateral anomalous origin. In each of these cases, the MMA originated from an enlarged basilar branch between ipsilateral the superior cerebellar artery and anterior inferior cerebellar artery, as was noted in our case. This anomaly has been proposed to be the result of an anastamosis between the primitive trigeminal artery and a persistent stapedial artery.
Prasugrel: A Critical Comparison with Clopidogrel

Thienopyridine antiplatelet drugs have been used for 15 years for the prevention of coronary stent thrombosis in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention with stent placement. Ticlopidine, the first approved thienopyridine, has in large part been replaced by clopidogrel, a more potent and better tolerated thienopyridine. Now, prasugrel, the newest agent, is currently available for use in the United States. Although prasugrel is similar to clopidogrel, it is about 10 times more potent and has a quicker onset of action. Data from the largest trial comparing clopidogrel and prasugrel indicate that this increased potency and quicker onset of prasugrel equate to a reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events, although higher rates of major bleeding were reported. Prasugrel also differs from clopidogrel in that it may be less prone to drug-drug interactions and patient nonresponsiveness, although further research is needed in both of these areas. Given the totality of data available, prasugrel appears to be a promising treatment option for patients with acute coronary syndromes who are undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions.
Commentary: Diversity in Urban Planning Education and Practice

Planning needs more diversity if it is to have legitimacy. Diversity can be achieved through more diverse faculty and students who become practitioners, and by increased scholarship that addresses diversity. In this essay, we examine the trends in scholarship about diversity in planning and the barriers to increasing faculty and students of color in planning schools, and we propose ways to move forward. We conclude that planning must increase the number of faculty of color in tenured and tenure-track positions and enhance the ability of planning programs to adequately address issues of race and gender to balance the power relations within the academy.
A helicene-containing foldamer displaying highly solvent-dependent CD spectra.

A m-phenylene ethynylene oligomer containing a helicene unit was synthesized to bias the twist sense of the folded helical conformation. The CD spectra of the helicene oligomer exhibited large Cotton effects that varied greatly with the solvent composition, including three separate conformational transitions.
Disturbance to a stream food web by a bacterial larvicide specific to black flies: feeding responses of predatory macroinvertebrates

SUMMARY 1. A field study was conducted to: (i) assess feeding habit changes of two predatory stoneflies following the loss of larval black fly (Diptera: Simuliidae) prey from two streams; and (ii) determine the relative importance of black fly larvae as prey for these and other selected predatory benthic macroinvertebrates. 2. Acroneuria lycorias and Paragnetina media (Plecoptera: Perlidae) diets were monitored in response to local reductions in larval black fly populations caused by Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (B.t.i.) in two Michigan streams. These predators were collected from B.t.i.-treated and control sections of the streams, and their foreguts inspected for prey. 3. Black flies were the major dietary component of both predators collected from the control sections, but the number of black flies ingested was significantly less for predators collected from B.t.i.-treated habitats. Total number of prey ingested significantly decreased for A. lycorias, but not for P. media, and non-black fly prey consumption significantly increased for P. media, but not for A, lycorias, following B.t.i. applications. 4. In prey choice trials conducted in experimental channels, A. lycorias and P. media showed no preference between prey types (black flies and mayflies). Body mass gain of individual A. lycorias nymphs was measured, and was similar for nymphs in black fly-rich and black fly-poor environments. Conversely, Isoperla signata and I. dicala (Plecoptera: Perlodidae) ingested significantly more Simulium vittatum (Diptera: Simuliidae) than Baetis flavistriga (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae) or Epeorus vitrea (Heptageniidae) prey. Boyeria vinosa (Odonata: Aeshnidae) ingested significantly more B. flavistriga than S. vittatum prey. 5. Reducing black fly densities in these streams, using B.t.i., indirectly and differentially affected predators. In black fly-poor environments, feeding habits of specialist predators were most affected, and generalist predators least affected because the latter consumed alternative prey. Predator—predator and predator-prey interactions, and prey community structure may be affected indirectly by disturbances such as B.t.i. applications by reducing food resources and forcing predation onto less preferred prey.
Characterization of Xenopus Phox2a and Phox2b defines expression domains within the embryonic nervous system and early heart field.

Abstract The closely related homeodomain containing genes, Phox2a and Phox2b, are essential for neuronal specification and differentiation within discrete subsets of neurons during vertebrate embryogenesis. We have isolated Xenopus Phox2 homologs, termed Xphox2a and Xphox2b, and characterized their expression during early development. In addition, we have characterized a Phox2a splice variant, termed Xphox2a.2, which lacks homeo- and C-terminal protein coding domains. Xphox2a, Xphox2a.2 and Xphox2b transcripts are expressed in dynamic temporal and regional patterns during nervous system development. The expression of Xphox2a and Xphox2b is only partially overlapping and includes cranial motor and interneuron populations as well as peripheral sympathetic and cranial ganglion neurons, sites linked to Phox2 expression in other species. In addition, we have identified an early domain of Xphox2a and subsequent Xphox2b expression in ventral regions of the embryo, within the developing heart field. XPhox2 expression within this domain is preceded by the gastrula-stage expression of the proneural basic helix–loop–helix transcription factor, Xash1, pointing to a new region of action for this group transcription factors during vertebrate development.
Classical Test Theory Methods for Repeated-Measures N = 1 Research Designs:

Classical test theory methods are derived to allow statistical evaluation of all KT(KT- 1)/2 unique, non-trivial difference scores that occur by comparing one or more variables (K) at two or more t...
Ebola Virus Entry: A Curious and Complex Series of Events

Ebola virus (EBOV) belongs to the Filoviridae family of negative-sense RNA viruses. Since its identification in 1976, sporadic outbreaks have occurred in Central Africa. The 2014 outbreak in West Africa provides evidence that EBOV is emerging into new geographic regions. While previous outbreaks have been confined to small areas, the most recent outbreak is atypically widespread with over 25,000 people infected. Evidence from the limited-sequence studies that have been published suggests that the outbreak resulted from a single reservoir-to-human transmission event and subsequent human-to-human spread [1]. As neither an EBOV vaccine nor antivirals are currently available, this outbreak highlights the critical need for the development of effective vaccines and therapeutics. Infection is initiated by virions entering dendritic cells, macrophages, and, perhaps, hepatocytes [2]. Virus replication in these cells is thought to be critical for initiation of systemic infection, leading to virus spread to new sites with infection of additional cell populations. Thus, a better understanding of virus entry will not only provide insight into both host cell and virus biology, but also elucidate therapeutic targets. Here we provide a brief overview of the current understanding of EBOV entry and identify important questions that remain unanswered in the field.
ATM requirement in gene expression responses to ionizing radiation in human lymphoblasts and fibroblasts.

The heritable disorder ataxia telangiectasia (AT) is caused by mutations in the AT-mutated ( ATM ) gene with manifestations that include predisposition to lymphoproliferative cancers and hypersensitivity to ionizing radiation (IR). We investigated gene expression changes in response to IR in human lymphoblasts and fibroblasts from seven normal and seven AT-affected individuals. Both cell types displayed ATM-dependent gene expression changes after IR, with some responses shared and some responses varying with cell type and dose. Interestingly, after 5 Gy IR, lymphoblasts displayed ATM-independent responses not seen in the fibroblasts at this dose, which likely reflect signaling through ATM-related kinases, e.g., ATR, in the absence of ATM function. (Mol Cancer Res 2006;4(3):197–207)
Digital Image Manipulation: A Compelling Means to Engage Students in Discussion of Point of View and Perspective

With the importance of imagery in our culture and the increasing access to both digital images and the tools used to manipulate them, it is important that social studies teacher educators prepare preservice teachers to provide their students with opportunities to develop a critical lens through which to view images. As we strive to encourage the development of effective citizens, the critical examination of images can be an effective vehicle to help students critically evaluate a variety of sources. This paper examines historic and more recent trends in image manipulation and provides an initial framework for discussing the current issues surrounding photo manipulation in the media. Descriptions are also provided of exercises in image manipulation focused on perspective in the social studies.
Low-bitrate distributed speech recognition for packet-based and wireless communication

We present a framework for developing source coding, channel coding and decoding as well as erasure concealment techniques adapted for distributed (wireless or packet-based) speech recognition. It is shown that speech recognition as opposed to speech coding, is more sensitive to channel errors than channel erasures, and appropriate channel coding design criteria are determined. For channel decoding, we introduce a novel technique for combining at the receiver soft decision decoding with error detection. Frame erasure concealment techniques are used at the decoder to deal with unreliable frames. At the recognition stage, we present a technique to modify the recognition engine itself to take into account the time-varying reliability of the decoded feature after channel transmission. The resulting engine, referred to as weighted Viterbi recognition, further improves the recognition accuracy. Together, source coding, channel coding and the modified recognition engine are shown to provide good recognition accuracy over a wide range of communication channels with bit rates of 1.2 kbps or less.
The Critically Appraised Topic: Closing the Evidence-Transfer Gap

Abstract See related editorial, p 675, and related article, p 629. [Wyer PC: The critically appraised topic: Closing the transfer gap. Ann Emerg Med November 1997;30:639-640.]
Performance Metric Portfolios: A Framework and Empirical Analysis

The widespread adoption of supply chain management principles suggests that managers recognize the importance of evaluating operational decisions holistically. However, it is often difficult to link specific operational practices to strategic level outcomes and in turn to corporate financial results. This presents problems for both managers and academic researchers attempting to justify the often high cost of operational improvement initiatives in terms of objective accounting metrics. This study provides evidence that it is possible to demonstrate linkages between carefully chosen portfolios of tactical, strategic, and financial metrics. Survey data from 118 manufacturers are used to evaluate hypotheses linking multilevel metrics of performance across three well-established strategic foci. We present portfolios of metrics drawn from the literature and from the Supply Chain Counciľs supply-chain operations reference model and related design and customer chain models. Our analysis suggests that metric portfolios in which tactical metrics are designed to match strategic-level metrics, based on alignment with a specific strategic focus, provide clearer mechanisms for understanding performance linkages.
The role of antisecretory drugs in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection

The efficacy of antibiotics against Helicobacter pylori is enhanced by the co-administration of antisecretory drugs. While proton pump inhibitors appear to have some direct effect on H. pylori and extreme hypochlorhydria has a deleterious effect on the organism, the most likely mechanism by which antisecretory drugs as a class provide this effect is by improving the efficacy of the antibiotics themselves. Although proton pump inhibitors are the most widely used antisecretory agents, H2 receptor antagonists also enhance antibiotic effects.
Leaving Competitive Sport: Retirement or Rebirth?

This paper reviews existing information on retirement from sport and offers an interpretation of the retirement process that will both challenge widespread assumptions held by sport sociologists and provide hypotheses for future research. The dynamics of the retirement process are discussed for athletes in top-level interscholastic and amateur sports as well as in professional sports. Existing data suggest that retirement for athletes in each of these contexts is not an inevitable source of stress, identity crises, or adjustment problems. It is argued that the dynamics of the sport retirement process are grounded in the social structural context in which retirement takes place. Factors such as gender, race, age, socioeconomic status, and social and emotional support networks shape the manner in which one makes the transition out of sport. Therefore, retirement from sport sometimes may be the scene of stress and trauma but, by itself, it often is not the major cause of those problems.
Cerebral White Matter and Retinal Arterial Health in Hypertension and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

We examined 33 hypertensive (22 with comorbid type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)) and 29 normotensive (8 with T2DM) middle-aged and elderly adults, comparable in age and education. Relative to normotensive participants, those with hypertension, in addition to a higher prevalence of periventricular white matter (WM) lesions, had significantly lower WM microstructural integrity of major fiber tracts as seen with MRI-based diffusion tensor imaging. Among participants with hypertension, those with co-morbid T2DM () had more widespread WM pathology than those without T2DM (). Furthermore and consistent with previous research, both hypertension and T2DM were related to decreased retinal arterial diameter. Further exploratory analysis demonstrated that the observed retinal arteriolar narrowing among individual with hypertension was associated with widespread subclinical losses in WM microstructural integrity and these associations were present predominantly in the frontal lobe. We found that T2DM adds to the damaging effects of hypertension on cerebral WM, and notably these effects were independent of age and body mass index. Given that the decrease in retinal arteriolar diameter may be a biomarker for parallel pathology in cerebral arterioles, our data suggest that the frontal lobe may be particularly vulnerable to microvascular damage in the presence of hypertension and T2DM.
Developing Psychosocial Aftercare for Children Surviving Cancer and their Families

More children than ever are surviving childhood cancer. However, the medical and psychosocial consequences of their longer survival are becoming clear for former patients and their families, underlining the need for aftercare. Whereas the need for medical follow-up programs is widely recognized, psychosocial aftercare is still in its infancy. This paper presents a systematic approach to developing psychosocial aftercare based on evidence from research studies. First, the family member most in need of aftercare is identified. Research findings indicate that the child surviving cancer is most seriously affected by the cancer experience, followed by mothers and fathers, whereas siblings are least affected. Accordingly, former patients and parents should be the primary target groups. Second, different types of interventions need to be developed based on the nature of the problems of the target groups and the individual's level of adjustment. Finally, psychosocial aftercare programs need to demonstrate their e...
A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Treatment of Venous Leg Ulcers Using Mechanically Versus Electrically Powered Negative Pressure Wound Therapy.

Objective: This study compares two different negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) modalities in the treatment of venous leg ulcers (VLUs), the ultraportable mechanically powered (MP) Smart Negative Pressure (SNaP®) Wound Care System to the electrically powered (EP) Vacuum-Assisted Closure (V.A.C.®) System. Approach: Patients with VLUs from 13 centers participated in this prospective randomized controlled trial. Each subject was randomly assigned to treatment with either MP NPWT or EP NPWT and evaluated for 16 weeks or complete wound closure. Results: Forty patients (n=19 MP NPWT and n=21 EP NPWT) completed the study. Primary endpoint analysis of wound size reduction found wounds in the MP NPWT group had significantly greater wound size reduction than those in the EP NPWT group at 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks (p-value=0.0039, 0.0086, 0.0002, and 0.0005, respectively). Kaplan–Meier analyses showed greater acceleration in complete wound closure in the MP NPWT group. At 30 days, 50% wound closure was achieved in ...
New techniques for non-linear behavioral modeling of microwave/RF ICs from simulation and nonlinear microwave measurements

This paper compares and contrasts recent nonlinear behavioral modeling techniques designed for microwave and RFIC applications which arise in radio and communication systems, and in the design of broad-band nonlinear components used for microwave instrumentation. These techniques include dynamic neural networks and nonlinear time series models in the time-domain, nonlinear describing functions in the frequency domain, and envelope-based methods in mixed time and frequency domains. Approaches to generating these models from both simulation and nonlinear microwave measurements are reviewed.