cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electoral Accountability and Particularistic Legislation: Evidence from an Electoral Reform in Mexico

Being able to hold politicians accountable is the hallmark of democracy, and central to this is the notion that politicians can run for reelection. Most research on reelection incentives compare politicians who are term-limited with those who are not. These studies concentrate mostly on relatively senior politicians in candidate-centered electoral systems. This article leverages a quasi-natural experiment posed by the staggered implementation of the 2014 Mexican Electoral Reform, which lifted an eighty-year-old ban on reelection. The author conducts a difference-in-differences analysis of the hypothesis that reelection encourages legislators to focus more on policies with the highest “electoral yield”—namely, particularistic legislation. Applying a correlated topic model to a new collection of transcripts from 6,890 legislative sessions in 20 Mexican states between 2012 and 2018, this article presents compelling evidence that it does, that the effect is synchronized with the electoral cycle, and that it is larger when the legislators’ political horizons are longer.
Analysis of Geometric Accuracy and Thickness Reduction in Multistage Incremental Sheet Forming using Digital Image Correlation

Abstract Incremental Sheet Forming (ISF) is a freeform manufacturing method whereby a 3D geometry is created by progressively deforming a metal sheet with a single point tool following a defined trajectory. The thickness distribution of a formed part is a major consideration of the process and is believed to be improved by forming the geometry in multiple stages. This paper describes a series of experiments in which truncated cone geometries were formed using two multistage methods and compared to the same geometry formed using the traditional single stage method. The geometric accuracy and thickness distributions, including 3D thickness distribution plots, of each are examined using digital image correlation (DIC). The data collected indicate that multistage forming, compared to single stage forming, has a significant effect on the geometric accuracy of the processed sheets. Moreover, the results of the experiments conducted in this paper show that sheets processed with multistage forming do not have a uniform sheet thickness reduction, rather they have a parabolic-like thickness distribution in the processed region.
Hydrate bedding modeling in oil-dominated systems

Abstract The rapid formation of gas hydrates is one of the major concerns in offshore oil and gas transportation due to the possible plugging of unmanaged hydrate agglomerates. Within the oil and gas industry, hydrate management guidelines have shifted over the last decade from hydrate avoidance to hydrate management. Allowing hydrate formation in pipelines without blockages requires understanding of the hydrate formation and plugging mechanisms under different operational conditions. Furthermore, a predictive tool which can be coupled with the multiphase flow conditions encountered in the field is highly desired in order to ensure successful transportation of hydrate slurries. In the realm of modeling, one such hydrate plugging mechanism that remains unaddressed is the bedding of hydrate particles, which may occur when hydrate particles aggregate within the pipeline. In this work, a bedding model based on force balances has been developed and coupled with a transient multiphase flow simulator. It is proposed that agglomeration controls bedding and bedding is a function of the agglomerate size, which is assumed to follow a log-normal distribution based on an autoclave experimental study. The bedding model has been tested and validated against large-scale flowloop experiments at different water cuts and liquid velocities. Pressure drop comparison between the simulations and experiments shows an improvement after implementing the bedding model for simulations with low liquid velocity. This work may contribute to the understanding of the hydrate plugging mechanisms and be applied to optimize hydrate management guidelines in offshore oil and gas production.
Asymmetric effects of sectoral shifts under low and high uncertainty

This paper studies the asymmetric effects of sectoral shifts on economic performance under low and high uncertainty using US data. A sectoral shift is found to induce more depressed economic activity under high uncertainty relative to under low uncertainty. These effects are statistically different across the two uncertainty regimes and are not driven solely by recessions. A tractable two‐sector dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model with sectoral shifts and stochastic volatility is able to qualitatively explain these empirical findings.
Modifying the network-based stochastic SEIR model to account for quarantine: an application to COVID-19

Objectives: Diseases such as SARS-CoV-2 have novel features that require modifications to the standard network-based stochastic SEIR model In particular, we introduce modifications to this model to account for the potential changes in behavior patterns of individuals upon becoming symptomatic, as well as the tendency of a substantial proportion of those infected to remain asymptomatic Methods: Using a generic network model where every potential contact exists with the same common probability, we conduct a simulation study in which we vary four key model parameters (transmission rate, probability of remaining asymptomatic, and the mean lengths of time spent in the exposed and infectious disease states) and examine the resulting impacts on various metrics of epidemic severity, including the effective reproduction number We then consider the effects of a more complex network model Results: We find that the mean length of time spent in the infectious state and the transmission rate are the most important model parameters, while the mean length of time spent in the exposed state and the probability of remaining asymptomatic are less important We also find that the network structure has a significant impact on the dynamics of the disease spread Conclusions: In this article, we present a modification to the network-based stochastic SEIR epidemic model which allows for modifications to the underlying contact network to account for the effects of quarantine We also discuss the changes needed to the model to incorporate situations where some proportion of the individuals who are infected remain asymptomatic throughout the course of the disease
Ocular Complications After Laser or Light-Based Therapy-Dangers Dermatologists Should Know

Background Laser and light-based technologies have been used in the medical field for over 50 years. In dermatologic and cosmetic practice, cutaneous side effects are commonly discussed; however, ocular injury may also occur. Objective To complete a systematic review of the current literature regarding ocular complications in the dermatologic field after laser and/or light-based therapies. Materials and methods A systematic review of the Medline database was performed in August 2020 using the search terms "laser or light and ocular and complication." The inclusion criteria were articles written in English discussing ocular complications after laser or light-based therapy for dermatologic or cosmetic indications. Results A total of 36 articles were included for review. Carbon dioxide was the most frequently used laser causing ocular damage, and the most common ophthalmologic complication was temporary ectropion. Patients described visual disturbances and pain as the most common symptoms. A large proportion of articles did not report the use of appropriate eye protection at the time of injury. Conclusion Although ocular injury post-laser or light-based procedures are rare, clinicians must be acutely aware of the signs and symptoms associated with eye damage. The informed consent process should thoroughly describe the possibility of ocular complications post-treatment, and medical practices should have appropriate emergency plans and protective equipment in place to decrease both patient and staff risk of injury.
CHL1 deletion is associated with cognitive and language disabilities - Case report and review of literature.

BACKGROUND There is a small, but growing number of reports of pediatric patients with terminal deletions at 3p26.3 involving only the cell adhesion molecule L1-like (CHL1) gene that has been found to have language delays and intellectual disability. Here we report a one month of age patient who developed seizures and tone abnormalities, with persistent and prominent gross and fine motor delays. The patient has microcephaly and deficits in language and cognitive delays, similar to what has been seen in previous case reports. METHODS Chromosome and microarray comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) analysis was performed to identify clinically significant copy number variants (CNVs). In addition, Fluorescent in-situ hybridization (FISH) was performed to confirm the aCGH findings. RESULTS Chromosome analysis revealed an apparently normal (46,XX) female karyotype. Microarray CGH analysis revealed a 639 kb loss at 3p26.3 from 62199 to 701052 base pairs encompassing the whole CHL1 gene that was confirmed by FISH. Parental follow-up revealed the deletion as maternal in origin. CONCLUSION This case report adds to the limited body of literature that exists on this terminal deletion at 3p26.3 that involves CHL1 gene, and supports prior proposals of an emerging CHL1 microdeletion syndrome that results in language and cognitive delays. Further studies are needed to understand the degree of phenotypic heterogeneity associated with CHL1 gene deletion and whether the size of the deletion or presence of additional copy number variants (CNVs) which were seen in other case reports help predict the expected phenotype for a patient.
Evaluation of thrombophilia testing in the inpatient setting: A single institution retrospective review.

Background Thrombophilia workup is typically inappropriate in the inpatient setting as testing may be skewed by anticoagulation, acute thrombosis, or acute illness. Objective To determine adherence of inpatient thrombophilia testing with institutional guidelines. Patients and methods A retrospective study to evaluate thrombophilia testing practices of adult patients who were admitted to Lehigh Valley Hospital at Cedar Crest with either venous thromboembolism or ischemic stroke in 2019. Testing included inherited and acquired thrombophilia. Patient charts were individually reviewed for three measured outcomes: 1) the number of appropriate thrombophilia testing in the inpatient setting; 2) the indications used for thrombophilia testing; 3) the proportion of positive thrombophilia tests with change in clinical management. Results 201 patients were included in our study. 26 patients (13%) were tested appropriately in accordance with institution guidelines and 175 (87%) patients were tested inappropriately. The most common reason for the inappropriate testing was testing during acute thrombosis. 28 of the 201 patients had positive thrombophilia tests, but the reviewers only noted 7 patients with change in clinical management—involving anticoagulation change. Conclusion Our study revealed that a majority of inpatient thrombophilia testing did not follow institutional guidelines for appropriate testing and did not change patient management. These thrombophilia tests are often overutilized and have minimal clinical utility in the inpatient setting.
Attenuation correction of the PET ACR phantom using templates in PET/MR systems

1995 Objectives On hybrid PET/MR systems, attenuation correction of PET phantom acquisitions with the MR pulse sequences designed for patients often results in large errors in the PET data. A solution to this attenuation correction problem is to use a CT acquired phantom template to correct the acquired PET data. This can provide a straightforward solution to the problem provided that the CT template is properly aligned to the acquired PET emission data. One method to align the template is to image the phantom in a fixed orientation that corresponds to the template. Another approach registers the CT data of the phantom to the non-attenuation corrected (NAC) PET reconstruction from the phantom scan. In either case the phantom is assumed a rigid object. However, the PET ACR phantom has a lid that can be installed at 6 unique angular locations with respect to the cold rod resolution insert. In addition, the resolution insert is not rigidly fixed to the base of the phantom, allowing for slight translations and rotations. This work investigates the quantitative effects of installing the lid in five angular locations which differ from that of the template. Methods A PET ACR phantom was imaged on a GE 710 PET/CT scanner. To simulate installation of the lid at the five different locations with respect to the cold rods, the CT Phantom data was rotated on its axis with respect to all non-phantom CT data in the template(table, table pad, air remained in the same position). Five rotated phantom CT datasets were made by rotating the phantom in 60 degree increments (60, 120, 180, 240, and 300 degrees). A total of 6 reconstructions were performed, one with the aligned CT template acquired at the same time of the emission PET scan, and 5 with the rotated phantom CT datasets. Phantom activity levels, imaging, and analysis was performed according to ACR requirements using an injection of 370 MBq (10 mCi). Results The misalignment in attenuation correction for all cases caused no visible change in the spatial PET resolution scores. With respect to the cylinders on the lid of the phantom, the mismatch in attenuation correction data, caused visible artifacts in the reconstructions. Quantitative values are tabulated with respect to the PET reconstruction using the aligned CT template. Values in parenthesis represent percent error. Conclusions While the use of a CT template for the attenuation correction of PET data in PET/MR systems is a simple solution, very careful attention should be given to the orientation of the lid with respect to the template.
Variation in Body Stockiness Among and Within Ethnic Groups at Ages from Birth to Adulthood

Publisher Summary Human body form has been depicted by means of sculptures, casts, photographs, silhouettes, ratings, and indices. In the application of scientific method, the most desirable procedure, whenever feasible, is to move beyond using as primary data notations derived from body inspection or ratings obtained with the aid of descriptive categories to using as primary data quantitative values such as somatic indices. This chapter emphasizes body build, body proportion, body configuration, physique, and body shape. It reveals the variation in Rohrer's index of body stockiness during the period of human ontogeny between birth and age 30 years. On average, Rohrer's index was found to decrease rapidly during infancy, continue decreasing at slowing rates during early and middle childhood, remain almost constant during late childhood and early adolescence, and increase at moderate rates from mid-adolescence into adulthood. At ages prior to early adolescence, no systematic difference is evident in index averages for males and females; at ages after mid-adolescence averages are lower for males than females.
HEAR MY VOICE—PERSPECTIVES OF CURRENT AND FORMER FOSTER YOUTH

The youth participation movement begins with the basic premise that, without hearing and heeding the voices of those affected by the policies and practices we create, our efforts to improve the systems designed to help them are doomed to failure. This article provides accounts by court-involved youth and emerging adults of their frustrations and successes and firsthand perspectives on the nature of the challenges confronting them. These interviews, narratives, and poems provide the fundamental context for the incisive and thought-provoking articles that follow.
THE FOURIER TRANSFORM APPLIED TO VEHICLE EXTERIOR NOISE SOURCE IDENTIFICATION

This paper discusses a motor vehicle noise source identification technique designed for use during the SAE J986a or similar drive-by test procedure. It provides, by application of the Fourier Transform, the capability to obtain a narrowband (9.8 Hz) frequency resolution over an extended frequency range (0-10,000 Hz) at the peak vehicle noise level, a particular RPM, or a particular vehicle location in the test zone. Other features include corrections for the Doppler shift, averaging of noise tests, and subtraction of spectra of two separate noise tests from a component disconnect/reconnect procedure. /GMRL/
Mortgage Payment as a Portion of Income: A Better Solution

Professor, Department of Finance, Insurance and Law, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61790-5480 or jwtrefz@ilstu.edu We propose a program that would further promote housing privatization in China. In addition to operating its current Housing Savings Fund program, the government could guarantee loans, with payments capped at affordable levels or spread out over workable payment periods. Such a program would balance efficiency with fairness by encouraging market forces, while addressing practical necessities (lenders’ rights, corruption, labor mobility) so that privatization could relieve the burden on government and taxpayers. Net benefits would arise through the private market’s greater efficiency in managing housing resources.
Vehicular Causation Factors and Conceptual Design Modifications to Reduce Aortic Strain in Numerically Reconstructed Real World Nearside Lateral Automotive Crashes

Aortic injury (AI) leading to disruption of the aorta is an uncommon but highly lethal consequence of trauma in modern society. Most recent estimates range from 7,500 to 8,000 cases per year from a variety of causes. It is observed that more than 80% of occupants who suffer an aortic injury die at the scene due to exsanguination into the chest cavity. It is evident that effective means of substantially improving the outcome of motor vehicle crash-induced AIs is by preventing the injury in the first place. In the current study, 16 design of computer experiments (DOCE) were carried out with varying levels of principal direction of force (PDOF), impact velocity, impact height, and impact position of the bullet vehicle combined with occupant seating positions in the case vehicle to determine the effects of these factors on aortic injury. Further, a combination of real world crash data reported in the Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network (CIREN) database, Finite Element (FE) vehicle models, and the Wayne State Human Body Model-II (WSHBM-II) indicates that occupant seating position, impact height, and PDOF, in that order play, a primary role in aortic injury.
Vom Wesen der Geometrie

Kurz nach Kants Tode im Jahre 1804 hat eine Entwicklung begonnen, in der sich die Wissenschaft zuerst allmahlich, spater jedoch immer nachdrucklicher von allen absoluten Wahrheiten und vorgefasten Meinungen befreit hat. Die Gesetze, die Kant als unerlasliche Voraussetzungen der Wissenschaft betrachtete und die er fur nichtanalytisch hielt, haben sich nur in beschranktem Umfang als gultig erwiesen. Es hat sich herausgestellt, das gewisse wichtige Prinzipien der klassischen Physik nur fur Geschehnisse gelten, die sich in den Grosenverhaltnissen der Gegenstande unserer unmittelbaren Umgebung abspielen. Auf astronomischem und auf atomarem Gebiet musten sie durch Gesetze einer neuen Physik ersetzt werden; und allein diese Tatsache beweist, das es sich hier nicht um Gesetze handelt, die uns unser Verstand aufzwingt, sondern das diese Gesetze aus der Erfahrung stammen. Zur Illustration dieser Auflosung des synthetischen Apriori wollen wir die Entwicklung der Geometrie verfolgen.
Modeling a Presidential Prediction Market

Prediction markets now cover many important political events. The 2004 presidential election featured an active online prediction market at Intrade.com, where securities addressing many different election-related outcomes were traded. Using the 2004 data from this market, we examined three alternative models for these security prices, with special focus on the electoral college rules that govern U.S. presidential elections to see which models are more (or less) consistent with the data. The data reveal dependencies in the evolution of the security prices across states over time. We show that a simple diffusion model provides a good description of the overall probability distribution of electoral college votes, and an even simpler ranking model provides excellent predictions of the probability of winning the presidency. Ignoring dependencies in the evolution of security prices across states leads to considerable underestimation of the variance of the number of electoral college votes received by a candidate, which in turn leads to overconfidence in predicting whether that candidate will win the election. Overall, the security prices in the Intrade presidential election prediction market appear jointly consistent with probability models that satisfy the rules of the electoral college.
Purification of fatty acid ethyl esters by solid-phase extraction and high-performance liquid chromatography

Abstract We have developed a two-step method to purify fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEE) using solid-phase extraction (SPE), with a recovery of 70±3% (mean±S.E.M.) as assessed using ethyl oleate as a recovery marker from a standard lipid mixture in hexane. The first step of the SPE procedure involves application of a lipid mixture to an aminopropyl-silica column with simultaneous elution of FAEE and cholesteryl esters from the column with hexane. Gas chromatographic analysis of FAEE without interference from cholesteryl esters may be performed using the eluate from the aminopropyl-silica column, thus eliminating the need for an octadecylsily (ODS) column in this case. The FAEE can then be separated from the cholesteryl esters, if necessary, by chromatography on an ODS column and elution with isopropanol-water (5:1, v/v). Both the aminopropyl-silica and ODS columns were found to be effective for up to four uses. To permit isolation of specific FAEE species following isolation of total FAEE by the two-step SPE method, we have also developed a purification scheme for individaal FAEE by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Thus, this simple method allows for reproducible isolation of total FAEE by SPE and isolation of individual FAEE species by HPLC.
Building population mapping with aerial imagery and GIS data

Geospatial distribution of population at a scale of individual buildings is needed for analysis of people's interaction with their local socio-economic and physical environments. High resolution aerial images are capable of capturing urban complexities and considered as a potential source for mapping urban features at this fine scale. This paper studies population mapping for individual buildings by using aerial imagery and other geographic data. Building footprints and heights are first determined from aerial images, digital terrain and surface models. City zoning maps allow the classification of the buildings as residential and non-residential. The use of additional ancillary geographic data further filters residential utility buildings out of the residential area and identifies houses and apartments. In the final step, census block population, which is publicly available from the U.S. Census, is disaggregated and mapped to individual residential buildings. This paper proposes a modified building population mapping model that takes into account the effects of different types of residential buildings. Detailed steps are described that lead to the identification of residential buildings from imagery and other GIS data layers. Estimated building populations are evaluated per census block with reference to the known census records. This paper presents and evaluates the results of building population mapping in areas of West Lafayette, Lafayette, and Wea Township, all in the state of Indiana, USA.
Ferroelectric tunnel junctions: Beyond the barrier

Employing a semiconducting electrode in a ferroelectric tunnel junction boosts the resistance switching effect.
Icacina oliviformis (Icacinaceae): A close look at an underexploited crop. I. Overview and ethnobotany

Icacina oliviformis is an underexploited, suffrutescent, savannah pyrophyte used for its edible seeds, tuberous roots, and fruit mesocarp in many areas of west and north-central Africa. The large seeds provide a relied-upon resource in Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, and the Central African Republic at the end of the dry season when food reserves in the villages are at their lowest annual levels. The tuberous roots, sometimes weighing over 50 kg, provide a rich source of starch in times of famine. This species deserves consideration for use in extensive agroforestry schemes in savannah habitats of west-central Africa.
Monte Carlo optimization of signal-to-noise ratio for electrothermal atomizers

Abstract This work uses Monte Carlo simulation models for Cu and Ag to study the change in the signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) with variations on the electrothermal atomizer length and diameter. A 5 × 5 grid corresponding to different lengths (2.0–4.0 cm) and diameters (0.30–0.70 cm) is filled with S/N data from the simulations. It is assumed that the S/N is shot-noise limited. The dosing hole diameter is held at 1.5 mm in all cases. A double-desorption type mechanism for Ag atomization was tested against experimental profiles and good agreement was achieved. Spherical microdroplets release Ag(g) with a fractional order ( 2 3 ) and an activation energy of 238 kJ mol−1. Ag(g) readsorbs as dispersed atoms on the wall upon collision. The secondary desorption is first order and has a lower activation barrier (117 kJ mol−1). The S/N predicted by the Monte Carlo simulation does not strongly depend on the heating rate or the nature of the analyte being determined. The optimum with respect to geometry is broad. The optimum furnace diameter is near 0.50 cm, while the optimum furnace length is at the 4.0-cm limit used in these studies. Most commercial atomizers have diameters close to the optimum but shorter lengths, probably reflecting the pragmatic consideration that the longer tubes require larger power supplies and prolonged heating times which may substantially reduce the useful life of the furnace. Further increases in length may also accentuate atomizer nonisothermality which deters analytical improvement.
Production and role of cytokines in the CNS of mice with acute viral encephalomyelitis

Semliki Forest Virus (SFV) causes a more severe acute encephalomyelitis in B6 than in SJL mice despite similar T cell proliferation and antibody responses in these two strains. To determine the immunological mechanisms that may contribute to this difference, CNS tissues from SFV-infected B6 and SJL mice were analyzed for viral replication, inflammatory responses and cytokine production, by semiquantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Although initially similar on day 2 p.i., SFV replicated to higher viral titers in B6 than SJL mice on days 4 and 7 p.i. Infectious virus was cleared from both strains by day 10 p.i. There were no differences in numbers of CD4+, CD8+ or MHC class I and II+ inflammatory cells at any time point. Higher levels of IL-4 mRNA, lower levels of TNF-alpha, IL-6, IL-1 beta and IL-2 mRNAs and lower IL-2+ and IFN-gamma+ cells were found in B6. These findings suggest that despite comparable immune responses, different patterns of cytokine production correlated with higher levels of virus in the brains and more severe clinical disease in B6, and more efficient clearance of virus and less severe disease in SJL mice.
Autonomy and control motivation and self-esteem

Two studies examined the hypothesis that primed autonomy and control motivations would influence self-esteem (SE) in the direction of autonomy increasing and control decreasing SE. Explicit, implicit, and defensive (i.e., the discrepancy between implicit and explicit) SE were measured. Results confirmed the hypothesis for implicit and for defensive SE. There were substantial sex differences, with men showing greater reactivity to motivation priming and threat than women. Results are interpreted in terms of a self-determination theory view of motivation and SE (Deci & Ryan, 2000).
Hysteretic voltage gap of a multijunction trap.

The hysteretic voltage gap DV , the difference between the threshold voltages for electrons to tunnel into and escape from a single-electron trap ~which consists of N gated small junctions with equal junction capacitances C , equal stray capacitances C0 , and well capacitance Cw! through an m-junction cotunneling process, is studied. By using an exact solution of the potential profiles @Phys. Rev. Lett. 74, 1839 ~1995!#, we find that DV (m) has a strong dependence on m , C0/C , Cw/C , and N , and that the hysteresis loop does not exist beyond a critical value b of C0/C . Previous discussions in the literature have neglected the effect of the stray capacitances but we find that even comparatively small values have a large effect ~especially for small Cw and large N! and, in particular, their inclusion was necessary to explain the DV obtained in some recent experiments @Phys. Rev. Lett. 72, 3226 ~1994!#. @S0163-1829~96!03128-1#
Nocturnal polyuria in older people: pathophysiology and clinical implications.

OBJECTIVES: To review the physiological changes of aging which affect the systems involved in urine formation and to consider how these changes interact with changes in bladder function, thereby leading to the onset of nocturnal polyuria with associated urinary frequency, nocturia, and incontinence. Based on this information, data are presented on the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions which reduce the rate of urine formation and, thus, can be of benefit in reducing symptoms, especially during the nighttime. METHODS: Peer-reviewed journal articles were identified by MEDLINE Search and by review of the literature. CONCLUSIONS: As a consequence of age-associated diminished renal concentrating capacity, diminished sodium conserving ability, loss of the circadian rhythm of antidiuretic hormone secretion, decreased secretion of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone, and increased secretion of atrial natriuretic hormone, there is an age-related alteration in the circadian rhythm of water excretion leading to increased nighttime urine production in older people. The interaction of nocturnal polyuria with age-related diminution in functional bladder volume and detrusor instability results in the symptoms of urinary frequency, nocturia and, in some persons, incontinence. The additional impact of Alzheimer's disease on these physiological and aging changes, as well as on a diminished perception of bladder fullness, leads to an even greater risk of urinary incontinence in these patients. Treatment of nocturnal polyuria with the antidiuretic hormone analog, DDAVP (desmopressin), can result in decreased nocturnal urine production with improvement in symptoms of frequency, nocturia, and incontinence.
Rates of dysfunction in parents of pediatric patients with burns

The purpose of the current study was to examine the rates of family and child dysfunction in a prospectively, consecutively admitted sample of children. One hundred eleven parents of children consecutively admitted for burn treatment were interviewed using a demographic questionnaire during their child's stay. Results of the questionnaire indicated that in 36% of the families, at least one parent reported significant dysfunction (history of substance abuse, involvement with Child Protective Services, incarceration, or psychiatric history). Results also indicated that 29% of the children over the age of 4 years had significant dysfunction (physical or sexual abuse, or both, psychiatric disorder, behavior problems, or learning disability. It was concluded that (1) parents of children with burns had a substantially high rate of dysfunction, (2) psychologic and preventive interventions should be focused on parents as well as children, and (3) burn injuries often should be regarded as a symptom rather than a cause of psychosocial problems in the family. Language: en
Achievement of national cholesterol education program goals by patients with dyslipidemia in rural ambulatory care settings.

The Third Adult Treatment Panel (ATP III) of the National Cholesterol Education Program provides guidelines for managing dyslipidemia; however, studies from large centers find that most dyslipidemic patients fail to achieve management goals. Few data exist on lipid management in rural settings. To determine the proportion of rural dyslipidemic patients achieving ATP III goals, records of 461 patients were reviewed from 4 practices. Only 54% of the patients with dyslipidemia achieved ATP III goals. Patients with diabetes or with a family history of premature coronary heart disease were less likely to achieve ATP III goals (odds ratio 0.56; 95% confidence interval, 0.38–0.84 and odds ratio 0.42; 95% confidence interval, 0.25–0.71, respectively). Patients taking statins were more likely to achieve goals (odds ratio 3.23; 95% confidence interval, 2.13–4.89). These results indicate that a significant proportion of patients with dyslipidemia in rural practices do not achieve management goals. Strategies to improve lipid management in rural practices are needed.
Recovery and quantitative detection of thiabendazole on apples using a surface swab capture method followed by surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy

Abstract We developed a rapid and simple method which combines a surface swab capture method and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy for recovery and quantitative detection of thiabendazole on apple surfaces. The whole apple surface was swabbed and the swab was vortexed in methanol releasing the pesticide. Silver dendrites were then added to bind the pesticide and used for enhancing the Raman signals. The recovery of the surface swab method was calculated to be 59.4–76.6% for intentionally contaminated apples at different levels (0.1, 0.3, 3, and 5 ppm, μg/g per weight). After considering the releasing factor (66.6%) from the swab, the final accuracy of the swab-SERS method was calculated to be between 89.2% and 115.4%. This swab-SERS method is simple, sensitive, rapid (∼10 min), and quantitative enough for QA/QC in plant procedure. This can be extended to detect other pesticides on raw agricultural produce like pears, carrots, and melons etc.
Intraoperative Transoesophageal Echocardiography as an Adjuvant to Fluoroscopy during Endovascular Thoracic Aortic Repair

Abstract Objectives: to define the utility of intraoperative transeophageal echocardiography (TEE) during endovascular thoracic aortic repair. Design: retrospective study. Materials: five patients underwent six transluminal endovascular stent-graft procedures for repair of thoracic aortic disease. Methods: after induction of anaesthesia, a multiplane or biplane TEE probe was placed to obtain views of the diseased aorta. Both transverse and longitudinal planes of the aortic arch and descending thoracic aortic segments were imaged. The aortic pathology was confirmed by TEE and the proximal and distal extents of the intrathoracic lesion were defined. Doppler and colour-flow imaging was used to identify flow patterns through the aorta before and after stent-graft deployment. Results: visualisation and confirmation of the aortic pathology by ultrasonography was accomplished in all patients. TEE was able to confirm proper placement of the endograft relative to the aortic lesion after deployment and was able to confirm exclusion of blood flow into the aneurysm sacs. Conclusions: TEE may facilitate repair by confirming aortic pathology, identifying endograft placement, assessment of the adequacy of aneurysm sack isolation, as well as dynamic intraoperative cardiac assessment.
Enhancing knowledge exchange through Communities of Practice at the Inter‐American Development Bank

A relatively new and spontaneous organisational form, simply referred to as Bank Networks or Communities of Practice (CoPs)(informal groups of professional workers who share similar interests and goals), have emerged in the past few years at the Inter‐American Development Bank (IDB). They are complementing the existing structures and enhancing knowledge exchange and organisational learning. These Bank Networks position the Institution in an optimal situation to explore to a greater extent the benefits of knowledge exchange and leveraging of institutional knowledge. The article examines, evaluates and gives the main findings of an empirical study of the nature, structure and activities carried out by the existing Bank’s Communities of Practice. Some ideas as to whether organisations should be supporting and encouraging the formation and development of Communities of Practice, and whether and how their proliferation should be fostered, are offered for consideration.
Effects of intracoronary ergonovine on the contralateral coronary artery in patients with atypical chest pain.

Abstract Ergonovine has become an accepted agent for the provocation of coronary artery spasm. Standard testing protocols generally use either cumulative or single intravenous bolus doses of ergonovine. A disadvantage of such protocols is that spasm may occur in both coronary arteries simultaneously, or during catheter exchange and, if severe, may be difficult to document and manage in some patients with severe myocardial ischemia, especially if using the Judkins technique. Recently, some investigators 1,2 have begun to administer intracoronary ergonovine to allow selective provocation of spasm in a single coronary artery. It has been postulated that this method might offer more precise control of the vasoconstrictor stimulus and a wider margin of safety than is possible with intravenous administration of ergonovine. In addition, this approach may avoid systemic hypertension and occasional systemic adverse effects that may be seen with intravenous ergonovine. Despite increasing use of intracoronary ergonovine administration in patients, it has not been determined whether such administration causes a truly selective vasoconstrictor effect. The present study determines whether intracoronary ergonovine administration causes selective unilateral coronary artery constriction or whether the contralateral coronary artery is affected as well.
Process Development for Sodelglitazar: A PPAR Panagonist

Three efficient syntheses of sodelglitazar (1) have been developed. In particular, the third synthesis avoids the use of zinc and eliminates the resulting heavy metal waste stream as well as the potential genotoxic methanesulfonate in the two earlier syntheses. This process produces sodelglitazar in 74% overall yield from readily available thiophenol (8) and thiazole alcohol (3).
Evaluation of a novel rash scale and a serum proteomic predictor in a randomized phase II trial of sequential or concurrent cetuximab and pemetrexed in previously treated non-small cell lung cancer

Candidate predictive biomarkers for epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRi), skin rash and serum proteomic assays, require further qualification to improve EGFRi therapy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In a phase II trial that was closed to accrual because of changes in clinical practice we examined the relationships among candidate biomarkers, quantitative changes in tumor size, progression-free and overall survival. 55 patients with progressive NSCLC after platinum therapy were randomized to receive (Arm A) cetuximab, followed by pemetrexed at progression, or (Arm B) concurrent cetuximab and pemetrexed. All received cetuximab monotherapy for the first 14 days. Pre-treatment serum and weekly rash assessments by standard and EGFRi-induced rash (EIR) scales were collected. 43 patients (20-Arm A, 23-Arm B) completed the 14-day run-in. Median survival was 9.1 months. Arm B had better median overall (Arm B = 10.3 [95% CI 7.5, 16.8]; Arm A = 3.5 [2.8, 11.7] months P = 0.046) and progression-free survival (Arm B = 2.3 [1.6, 3.1]; Arm A = 1.6 [0.9, 1.9] months P = 0.11). The EIR scale distributed ratings among 6 rather than 3 categories but ordinal scale rash severity did not predict outcomes. The serum proteomic classifier and absence of rash after 21 days of cetuximab did. Absence of rash after 21 days of cetuximab therapy and the serum proteomic classifier, but not ordinal rash severity, were associated with NSCLC outcomes. Although in a small study, these observations were consistent with results from larger retrospective analyses. Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT00203931
Improved near-field calculations using vectorial diffraction integrals in the finite-difference time-domain method

We present an alternative mixed-surface implementation of the Stratton-Chu vectorial diffraction integrals as a means to improve near-field calculations outside the computational domain of the finite-difference time-domain method. This approach, originally derived for far-field calculations, reduces the effect of phase errors and reduces storage costs compared to standard single-surface implementations performed using arithmetic and geometric means. All three methods are applied to a strongly forward-scattering sphere, which is the gold standard for similar simulations with a corresponding analytical Mie series solution. Additionally, the mixed surface is applied to an ensemble of theoretical flow cytometry calibration standards in optical gel. The near-field electromagnetic scattering produced by these or any arbitrary object, such as a cell, could be used to simulate images in a high-numerical-aperture microscope. The results show the mixed-surface implementation outperforms the standard techniques for calculating the near-field electromagnetic fields.
Ultrabroadband phased-array radio frequency (RF) receivers based on optical techniques

Military operations require the ability to locate and identify electronic emissions in the battlefield environment. However, recent developments in radio detection and ranging (RADAR) and communications technology are making it harder to effectively identify such emissions. Phased array systems aid in discriminating emitters in the scene by virtue of their relatively high-gain beam steering and nulling capabilities. For the purpose of locating emitters, we present an approach realize a broadband receiver based on optical processing techniques applied to the response of detectors in conformal antenna arrays. This approach utilizes photonic techniques that enable us to capture, route, and process the incoming signals. Optical modulators convert the incoming signals up to and exceeding 110 GHz with appreciable conversion efficiency and route these signals via fiber optics to a central processing location. This central processor consists of a closed loop phase control system which compensates for phase fluctuations induced on the fibers due to thermal or acoustic vibrations as well as an optical heterodyne approach for signal conversion down to baseband. Our optical heterodyne approach uses injection-locked paired optical sources to perform heterodyne downconversion/frequency identification of the detected emission. Preliminary geolocation and frequency identification testing of electronic emissions has been performed demonstrating the capabilities of our RF receiver.
Methods for comparing 3D surface attributes

A common task in data analysis is to compare two or more sets of data, statistics, presentations, etc. A predominant method in use is side-by-side visual comparison of images. While straightforward, it burdens the user with the task of discerning the differences between the two images. The user if further taxed when the images are of 3D scenes. This paper presents several methods for analyzing the extent, magnitude, and manner in which surfaces in 3D differ in their attributes. The surface geometry are assumed to be identical and only the surface attributes (color, texture, etc.) are variable. As a case in point, we examine the differences obtained when a 3D scene is rendered progressively using radiosity with different form factor calculation methods. The comparison methods include extensions of simple methods such as mapping difference information to color or transparency, and more recent methods including the use of surface texture, perturbation, and adaptive placements of error glyphs.
Recurrence of Cushing's disease 10 years after transsphenoidal adenomectomy: report of a case.

Objective: To report a case of recurrent Cushing's disease after an apparent cure and long-term surveillance. Methods: We describe in detail the follow-up course of a woman who underwent transsphen...
A novel method for the large-scale production of PG-CNP37, a C-type natriuretic peptide analogue

Abstract Achondroplasia is the most common form of human dwarfism caused by a mutation in the fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3), resulting in abnormal endochondral bone formation. C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is a potent stimulator of endochondral bone growth and represents a potential therapy for achondroplasia. We have developed a novel, simple and cost effective method to produce a CNP analogue, PG-CNP37, at a large scale from Escherichia coli. A PG-CNP37 fusion protein was over-expressed as inclusion bodies in E. coli, which were purified then cleaved by formic acid to release the PG-CNP37 peptide. Approximately 0.5 g of 95% pure, soluble and active PG-CNP37 peptide was produced from 1 L of culture using this method and may represent a viable means for large-scale production of other therapeutic peptides.
UV as an Amplifier Rather Than Inducer of NF-κB Activity

Summary Inflammatory activation of NF-κB involves the stimulus-induced degradation of the NF-κB-bound inhibitor IκB via the IκB kinase (IKK). In response to UV irradiation, however, the mechanism and function of NF-κB activation remain unclear. Using a combined biochemical, genetic, and computational modeling approach, we delineate a dual requirement for constitutive IKK-dependent and IKK-independent IκB degradation pathways in conjunction with UV-induced translational inhibition. Interestingly, we find that the high homeostatic turnover of IκB in resting cells renders the NF-κB system remarkably resistant to metabolic stresses, but the two degradation pathways critically and differentially tune NF-κB responsiveness to UV. Indeed, in the context of low chronic inflammation that accelerates NF-κB-bound IκB degradation, UV irradiation results in dramatic NF-κB activation. Our work suggests that the human health relevance of NF-κB activation by UV lies with cellular homeostatic states that are associated with pathology rather than with healthy physiology.
Technology Use and Technological Capabilities: Implications for Innovation

Technology can enhance an organization’s existing capabilities as well as enable new capabilities, particularly in small, resource-constrained firms that may lack the capabilities to innovate and t...
Responses of the rat superior cervical ganglion in vitro to isoprenaline and bethanechol.

The effects of isoprenaline were studied in isolated rat superior cervical ganglia. Intracellularly recorded excitatory postsynaptic potentials were depressed by isoprenaline in concentrations of 10−5 to 10−4 M. In 13 out of 17 cells, isoprenaline caused ganglionic hyperpolarization (mean, 4 mV). Changes in the amplitude and contour of antidromic action potentials caused by isoprenaline could be accounted for by the increased membrane potential. A slight increase in membrane input resistance from 44–50.2 megohms (mean values) occurred in about half of the cells. Activation of an ion pump by isoprenaline was suggested by the finding that the hyperpolarization did not occur when the bathing solution contained ouabain (10−5 M) or lacked Na+ or K+. Characterization of the isoprenaline effects by the use of alpha and beta adrenergic blocking drugs was not possible because of the direct depressant effects of the antagonists.