cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role of plaque morphology in altering the flow characteristics in diseased coronary artery

Patient specific simulations of a single patient based on an accurate representation of the plaque in a diseased coronary artery with 35% stenosis are performed to understand the effect of inlet forcing frequency and amplitude on the wall shear stress (WSS). Numerical simulations are performed with unsteady flow conditions in a laminar regime. The results have revealed that at low amplitudes, WSS is insensitive to forcing frequency and is it in phase with Q. The maximum WSS is observed at the proximal region of the stenosis, and WSS has highest negative values at the peak location of the stenosis. For higher pulsatile amplitude (a > 1.0), WSS exhibits a strong sensitivity with forcing frequencies. At higher forcing frequency the WSS exhibits nonlinear response to the inlet forcing frequency. Furthermore, significant differences in the mean velocity profile are observed during maximum and minimum volumetric flow rates.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Analysis of speechreading cues using an interleaved technique

A method of locating visible differences between "homophenous" phonemes has been developed. Alternating frames from two video-recorded VCV utterances that differ only in the consonant are interleaved. The output contains odd frames of one utterance and even frames of the other. Presentation of these frames at 30 frames/sec results in a video recording that contains areas of jitter in those regions of the face that are not in identical positions at the same time during the production of the two utterances. The areas of jitter indicate the points of interest for detailed measurement. For homophenous VCV pairs involving /p/, /b/, and /m/, interleaving resulted in strong jitter in the lower lip and cheeks. There was no jitter when two utterances of the same phoneme were interleaved. A concurrent perceptual study showed that good speechreaders were able to discriminate between members of a homophenous pair in a forced-choice experiment.
MOLECULAR BASIS OF HYPERPARATHYROIDISM

Several advances have been achieved toward an improved understanding of the molecular basis of human parathyroid tumorigenesis. One oncogene involved in the development of parathyroid tumors,PRAD1/cyclin D1, has been discovered and is having a broad impact in oncology and cell-cycle biology. The general genomic locations of several novel putative parathyroid tumor suppressor genes have been identified, providing guideposts toward their specific identification. An already recognized tumor suppressor gene,RB, or a close neighbor on 13q, has been linked to the pathogenesis of parathyroid carcinomas.RET has been centrally implicated in MEN-2A, and investigators are on the verge of isolating theMEN1 gene, both of which are sure to have important basic and clinical implications relevant to parathyroid and other endocrine diseases. Although mutations in theCASR gene itself play a critical role in familial disease, they do not appear to be involved in sporadic parathyroid tumorigenesis, and investigation of genes important for its regulation is warranted. Finally, new molecular genetic approaches will eventually permit the identification of additional parathyroid tumor-provoking genes and will begin to shed light upon other problems in parathyroid biology, such as the relationship between abnormal parathyroid cell proliferation and an altered setpoint in the mechanism linking extracellular calcium concentration to PTH secretion.
Ion imaging the recoil energy distribution following vibrational predissociation of triplet state pyrazine–Ar van der Waals clusters

Abstract The ion imaging technique has been used to determine the recoil energy distribution of triplet pyrazine fragments following vibrational predissociation of pyrazine–Ar van der Waals clusters containing ∼4000 cm−1 of vibrational energy. The 2-dimensional image of the isotropic recoil distribution was converted to a radial velocity distribution using an analytical inverse Abel transform. The recoil probability distribution is found to be a monotonically decreasing function of energy, with an average recoil of ∼95 cm−1. Information theory is used to interpret the experimental results.
Polymer surface and thin film vibrational dynamics of poly(methyl methacrylate), polybutadiene, and polystyrene

Inelastic helium atom scattering has been used to investigate the vibrational dynamics at the polymer vacuum interface of poly(methyl methacrylate), polystyrene, and polybutadiene thin films on SiOx∕Si(100). Experiments were performed for a large range of surface temperatures below and above the glass transition of these three polymers. The broad multiphonon feature that arises in the inelastic scattering spectra at surface temperatures between 175 and 500K is indicative of the excitation of a continuum of surface vibrational modes. Similarities exist in the line shapes of the scattering spectra, indicating that helium atoms scatter from groups of similar mass on the surface of these polymer thin films. The line shapes obtained were further analyzed using a semiclassical scattering model. This study has shown that quite different polymer thin films can have similar interfacial dynamics at the topmost molecular layer.
Association Between Diet Knowledge and Quality of Diets in Southern Rural Elderly

Abstract Elderly (n = 1,539) aged 60 and older residing in rural counties of nine southeastern states who volunteered to participate in the study were interviewed. Information collected included socio-economic information, food intake by 24-hour recall for two non-consecutive days, and questions on diet knowledge, attitudes, and practice. Diet Knowledge Index (DKJ) was assessed from the average scores of individual knowledge of dietary fiber, cholesterol/fat, and food group servings. Number of servings of grains/cereals/ breads/pasta, milk/cheese, fruits, and vegetables was significantly higher for those with higher DKJ; intakes for many nutrients were greater, and quality of diets was superior for those with higher DKJ. Those with higher DKJ had higher education and income; and proportions of males, blacks and persons who lived alone decreased as DKJ increased. Nutrition education programs should target rural elders with low income and education and who live alone.
Children and Adolescents’ Attitudes Toward Seeking Help From Professional Mental Health Providers

Counseling services are only likely to be effective if individuals are willing to seek help. Although much of the research on youth help-seeking has focused on adolescents, few studies have examined this in regard to children. Constant comparison analysis of focus group discussions revealed differences based on age and gender. Knowledge, sources of help, willingness, concerns regarding confidentiality, levels of interpersonal openness and stigma tolerance differed based on age. Gender differences were also highlighted. Implications focus on enhancing help-seeking among youth.
Evaluation of a Community‐Based Exercise Program for Elderly Korean Immigrants

Abstract Objective: To evaluate feasibility and effectiveness of a modified exercise program for elderly Korean immigrants (EKIs). Design and sample: Intervention study with EKI residents of a senior house (n = 13, age range 67–86 years, mean age 77 years), recruited through posted fliers and with help from a Korean social worker. Intervention: A Korean–American instructor taught a modified version of an evidence-based exercise program 3 times weekly, 50 min per session, for 12 weeks. Program was evaluated with the Quality Health Outcomes Model. System and client characteristics were taken into consideration because elderly Koreans have their own values and beliefs, which influence their health management behaviors. Evaluation measures included exercise adherence, preintervention and postintervention health outcomes, and satisfaction with the exercise program. Group discussion was used to evaluate satisfaction with the exercise program. Results: Participants showed improved health outcomes on muscle strength, agility/balance, and blood pressure after the exercise program. All participants were satisfied with the exercise program, and participation rates were good (nine participants attended ≥ 80% of classes). Conclusions: The exercise program was feasible for this sample and should be evaluated in a larger population of EKIs and in populations of other ethnic minorities.
The Bottom Line: Rectal Thiopental as an Alternative Sedation in Children for MRIs

In the pediatric radiology department, approximately 65 children per month are sedated in MRI with thiopental. A retrospective chart review of the first quarter of 2004 identified only a 4% failure rate with minimal to no adverse reactions (mild oxygen saturation drops or paradoxical reactions). All children 6 months to 6 years of age sedated with thiopental for MRI procedures were included in this review. A review of the literature demonstrates that thiopental is not a widely used drug for radiologic sedations; however, it is an effective medication for sedation of younger children. This session demonstrated that thiopental used rectally in children 6 months to 6 years of age is a safe and effective alternative to oral and intravenous sedation.
Gene targeting and gene trap screens using embryonic stem cells: New approaches to mammalian development

Mouse embryonic stem cell lines offer an attractive route for introducing rare genetic alternations into the gene pool since the cells can be pre-screened in culture and the mutations then transmitted into the germline through chimera production. Two applications of this technique that seem ideally suited for a genetic analysis of development are enhancer and gene trap screens for loci expressed during gastrulation and production of targeted mutations using homologous recombination. These approaches should greatly increase the number of mouse developmental mutants available and help to elucidate the genetic hierarchy controlling embryogenesis.
Trapping low energy antiprotons from the FNAL accumulator

Abstract Recently antiprotons have been captured in Penning traps of a few cm dimensions. The trapping is so stable that cooling (to thermal energies) and precision experiments on the trapped P cloud are possible. This environment may be ideal as a reactor for antihydrogen production as well. So far work of this sort has been performed or contemplated only in conjunction with the CERN LEAR facility. I show here that interesting research quantities of trapped P s may be had directly from the existing Fermilab P source. The method would be straightforward extrapolation of the method already successfully demonstrated at LEAR.
Chorion-induced myometrial relaxation is mediated by large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel opening in the guinea pig

Abstract Objective: We previously demonstrated that chorion releases a factor that inhibits both spontaneous and oxytocin-stimulated myometrial contractility. Here, we investigate the mechanism of action of this unidentified substance. Study Design: Myometrial strips from pregnant guinea pigs were mounted in an organ bath and contractility stimulated with oxytocin. Results: Guinea pig chorion produced a time-dependent decrease in oxytocin-induced myometrial contractility. The ability of the chorion to reduce contractility was unaltered by inhibiting chorionic synthesis of either nitric oxide (N [ω]-nitro-L-arginine), carbon monoxide (tin-protoporphyrin), prostaglandins (indomethacin), or the myometrial cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway (1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalime-1-one and Rp-8Br-cGMP). In contrast, iberiotoxin, an inhibitor of large conductance Ca 2+ -activated K + channels reduced the quiescent effect of chorion by 40%; in contrast, inhibition of adenosine triphosphate–sensitive (glibenclamide) and voltage-gated K + channels (4amynopyridine) had no effect. Conclusion: Chorion-induced relaxation of oxytocin-stimulated myometrial contraction is, in great part, the product of a paracrine substance that opens myometrial large conductance Ca 2+ -activated K + channels. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2003;188:84-91.)
The impact of adjuvant radiation therapy on survival in women with uterine carcinosarcoma

Abstract Background and purpose Uterine carcinosarcoma is an aggressive neoplasm and the benefit of adjuvant radiation therapy (RT) is unclear. This retrospective study analyzes the influence of RT on survival using a large population database. Materials and methods Data were obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program of the US National Cancer Institute. Women with uterine carcinosarcoma who underwent primary surgery were eligible. Survival rates and multivariate analyses were performed by standard methods. Results Of the 2461 women in the analysis, 890 received adjuvant RT. Five-year rates of overall survival were 41.5% and 33.2% ( P P =0.005), for women receiving RT compared to those who did not. Women with stages I–III disease experienced a benefit in overall survival (HR 0.87, P =0.03) while women with stage IV disease experienced benefits in overall (HR 0.63, P P =0.004) with RT. Conclusions RT predicted for improved overall and disease specific survival in women with uterine carcinosarcoma within the SEER database. The benefit in disease specific survival was restricted to stage IV disease. These benefits may indicate a role for adjuvant RT in future prospective trials in the treatment of uterine carcinosarcoma.
Haitian Adolescent Personality Clusters and Their Problem Area Correlates

This study identified personality clusters among a community sample of adolescents of Haitian decent and related cluster subgroup membership to problems in the areas of substance abuse, mental and physical health, family and peer relationships, educational and vocational status, social skills, leisure and recreational pursuits, aggressive behavior-delinquency, and to sexual risk activity. Three cluster subgroups were identified: dependent/conforming (N = 68), high pathology (N = 30); and confident/extroverted/conforming (N = 111). Although the overall sample was relatively healthy based on low average endorsement of problems across areas of expressed concern, significant physical health, mental health, relationship, educational, and HIV risk problems were identified in a MACI identified high psychopathology cluster subgroup. A confident/extraverted/conforming cluster subgroup revealed few problems and appears to reflect a protective style.
Safe administration of the seasonal trivalent influenza vaccine to children with severe egg allergy

Abstract Background Anaphylaxis to egg or severe egg allergy has been considered a contraindication to receiving trivalent seasonal influenza vaccine (TIV). Objective To evaluate the safety of TIV among severely egg allergic children. Methods A 2-phase, multicenter study at 7 sites was conducted between October 2010 and March 2012. Inclusion criteria included a history of a severe reaction, including anaphylaxis, to the ingestion of egg and a positive skin test result or evidence of serum specific IgE antibody to egg. Phase 1 consisted of a randomized, prospective, double-blind, placebo controlled trial of TIV administration to egg allergic children, using a 2-step approach; group A received 0.1 mL of influenza vaccine, followed in 30 minutes if no reaction with the remainder of an age-appropriate dose, whereas group B received an injection of normal saline followed in 30 minutes if no reaction with the full 100% of the age-appropriate dose. Phase 2 was a retrospective analysis of single dose vs split-dose administration of TIV in eligible study participants who declined participation in the randomized controlled trial. Results Thirty-one study participants were prospectively evaluated in the randomized controlled trial (group A, 14; group B, 17); 45.1% had a history of anaphylaxis after egg ingestion. A total of 112 participants were retrospectively evaluated (87 with the single dose and 25 with the split dose); 77.6% of participants had a history of anaphylaxis after egg ingestion. All participants in both phases received TIV without developing an allergic reaction. Conclusion TIV administration is safe even in children with histories of severe egg allergy. Use of 2-step split dosing appears unnecessary because a single dose was well tolerated.
Dural arteriovenous fistulas supplied by ethmoidal arteries

Eight patients with dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) located on the floor of the anterior cranial fossa and supplied by enlarged ethmoidal branches of the ophthalmic artery are described. Five patients showed the classical symptom of intracerebral hemorrhage (all five had ipsilateral frontal lobe hematomas and one also had an associated a subdural hematoma). Two patients exhibited atypical symptoms of proptosis, chemosis, elevated intraocular pressure, and loss of vision secondary to an ethmoidal DAVF, which drained posteriorly to the cavernous sinus. The eighth patient exhibited proptosis and chemosis secondary to a cavernous sinus DAVF and was incidentally found to have an asymptomatic ethmoidal DAVF. One additional patient had two separate dural fistulas: one located on the cribriform plate and the second located in the posterior fossa. Seven of the eight patients were cured by surgical excision of the fistula site; in the remaining patient spontaneous obliteration followed a surgical procedure for a cavernous DAVF. DAVFs involving the floor of the anterior cranial fossa usually present with hemorrhage, but can present with ocular symptoms or be entirely asymptomatic and are effectively treated by surgical excision of the fistula site.
Fusarium root rot incidence and root system architecture in grafted common bean lines

In common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), Fusarium root rot (caused by Fusarium solani f. sp. phaseoli) disease severity is increased by environmental factors that stress the plant. The current study used reciprocal grafting techniques with the resistant cultivar FR266 and the susceptible cultivar Montcalm to determine if the genetic control of resistance is conferred by the rootstock (root genotype) or the scion (shoot genotype) and if root vigor played a role in resistance. The influence of a compacted layer on root and shoot genotype response and root rot resistance was studied. Root rot resistance was found to be controlled by the root genotype, such that on a scale of 1 to 7 (severe disease) the FR266 root had an average score of 2.3 and the Montcalm root had an average score of 4.4. However, when grafted plants were grown in the presence of a compacted layer, the FR266 root and/or shoot genotype in any graft combination with the susceptible Montcalm had reduced root rot (score = 2.4 average) than the Montcalm self graft (score = 4.5). Root mass was shown to be controlled by the root genotype in the absence of compaction such that the FR266 root was 26% larger that the Montcalm root when grafted onto a FR266 shoot or a Montcalm shoot. When a compacted layer was present the root and shoot genotype both contributed to root mass. Average root diameter was controlled by the shoot genotype, as the FR266 shoot grafted to Montcalm or FR266 roots had thicker roots (average diameter 0.455 mm) than the Montcalm shoot (average diameter 0.418 mm). This study shows evidence that root vigor in the presence of Fusarium disease pressure should be evaluated to effectively develop common bean lines resistant to Fusarium root rot across a range of environments.
Inviscid and viscous flows in cascades with an explicit multiple-grid algorithm

A rapid technique for calculating inviscid and viscous flows in turbomachinery cascades has been developed. The Euler and thin-layer Navier-Stokes equations are solved using the original explicit MacCormack algorithm. The Baldwin-Lomax eddy-viscosity model is used for turbulent flows. Convergence to a steady state is accelerated by use of a variable time step and a multiple-grid scheme. Computer time is reduced through vectorization. Details of the numerical method are presented along with computed results for two low-speed wind tunnel turning vanes, a Space Shuttle fuel pump turbine rotor, and a supersonic inflow compressor rotor. Results show that the method can predict subtle viscous flow phenomena in cascades and is fast enough to be used as a design tool.
Senior citizen's bargaining power in residential real estate markets

Purpose – Researchers have previously examined, with mixed results, whether experience in the single-family house market enhances a buyer's bargaining power by comparing prices paid by relatively young first-time buyers and experienced buyers. The present study aims to extend this basic line of inquiry, but the focus here is on both buyers and sellers at the other end of the age spectrum as the authors investigate the bargaining power of senior citizens (age 65 or older) in the single-family house market. Design/methodology/approach – Hedonic regression is used to analyze approximately 6,200 transactions that occurred in Montgomery County, Ohio during the years 2007 through 2009. Findings – No difference is discovered between prices paid for a single-family house by senior citizens and other buyers in the sample. However, senior citizens in this study sold property for 5.9 percent less than other sellers, ceteris paribus, suggesting that when they sold their homes, other factors put seniors at a bargainin...
2D higher spin gravity and the multimatrix models

Abstract We quantize W-gravity coupled to matter fields in the conformal gauge and obtain the critical exponents. We demonstrate explicitly how the generators of the W-algebra are described by an infinite set of conserved charges of the KdV hierarchy. We obtain the generalized hamiltonian equation of motion and show that it contains the class of universal differential equations of the matrix models. Thus we propose that these models describe pure W-gravity theories of the A-type. Consequently we give a new set of universal equations that correspond to other types of W-gravity theories.
Impact of electrode sequence on electrochemical removal of trichloroethylene from aqueous solution

Abstract The electrode sequence in a mixed flow-through electrochemical cell is evaluated to improve the hydrodechlorination (HDC) of trichloroethylene (TCE) in aqueous solutions. In a mixed (undivided) electrochemical cell, oxygen generated at the anode competes with the transformation of target contaminants at the cathode. In this study, we evaluate the effect of placing the anode downstream from the cathode and using multiple electrodes to promote TCE reduction. Experiments with a cathode followed by an anode (C → A) and an anode followed by a cathode (A → C) were conducted using mixed metal oxide (MMO) and iron as electrode materials. The TCE removal rates when the anode is placed downstream of the cathode (C → A) were 54% by MMO → MMO, 64% by MMO → Fe and 87% by Fe → MMO sequence. Removal rates when the anode is placed upstream of the cathode (A → C) were 38% by MMO → MMO, 58% by Fe → MMO and 69% by MMO → Fe sequence. Placing the anode downstream of the cathode positively improves (by 26%) the degradation of aqueous TCE in a mixed flow-through cell as it minimizes the influence of oxygen generated at the MMO anode on TCE reduction at the cathode. Furthermore, placing the MMO anode downstream of the cathode neutralizes pH and redox potential of the treated solution. Higher flow velocity under the C → A setup increases TCE mass flux reduction rate. Using multiple cathodes and an iron foam cathode up stream of the anode increase the removal rate by 1.6 and 2.4 times, respectively. More than 99% of TCE was removed in the presence of Pd catalyst on carbon and as an iron foam coating. Enhanced reaction rates found in this study imply that a mixed flow-through electrochemical cell with multiple cathodes up stream of an anode is an effective method to promote the reduction of TCE in groundwater.
Stimulation of p-aminohippurate extraction in the maturing rabbit kidney

In vivo studies were performed to evaluate maturational changes in PAH extraction (EPAH) in the rabbit and to determine whether accelerated maturation of this process could be achieved. Fifty-four animals were injected with penicillin before study at 10, 14, 21, or 28 days of life. Forty-eight rabbits served as saline-injected controls. PAH extraction in controls increased from 29.3 +/- 2.4% at 10 days of age to 35.9 +/- 3.3% at 14 days, 59.7 +/- 3.5% at 21 days, 71.6 +/- 1.9% at 28 days, and 72.7 +/- 2.3% at 35 days of life. Penicillin injection on the 3 days before study resulted in enhancement of EPAH on days 10 and 14 to 42.7 +/- 2.4% and 65.0 +/- 3.2% (P less than 0.005). On days 21 and 28 less stimulation was noted (68.7 +/- 2.3%; 76.0 +/- 4.1%). Preinjection on days 6--9 with study delayed to day 14 also led to augmentation (46.7 +/- 3.7% P less than 0.05) but less than that achieved after injection on days 10--13. These data suggest that EPAH stimulation may be transient, descreases as maturation is approached and is likely related to substrate availability.
Acculturation and Perceived Mental Health Need Among Older Asian Immigrants

The demographic landscape of the United States is changing as the general population ages and the size of racial/ethnic minority groups grows. Most prior studies on mental health service use among Asians in America have overlooked older adults. A deeper understanding of the way acculturation factors impact help-seeking behaviors among older Asian Americans will inform behavioral health practice and program planners as they address the disparities affecting a diverse racial group. The California Health Interview Survey was used to examine the correlates of perceived mental health need among 980 older Asian immigrants. The study found that English proficiency and other covariates affected how Asian Americans perceived mental health need. Implications for understanding the help-seeking behaviors of older Asian immigrants are discussed.
The Role of Still‐Frame Parametric Imaging in Magnetic Resonance Assessment of Left Ventricular Wall Motion by Non‐cardiologists

Background. Cardiac magnetic resonance (MR) images are often reviewed by non‐cardiologists who are not trained in the interpretation of regional left ventricular (LV) function. We hypothesized that the use of still‐frame parametric MR images of wall motion could aid in the assessment of regional LV function. Methods. Dynamic, electrocardiogram‐gated, steady‐state free precession (FIESTA) short‐axis images were obtained in 6 to 10 slices in 18 consecutive patients. Each loop was used to automatically generate a still‐frame image, in which each pixel is assigned a value equal to the amplitude of cyclic variation in local intensity, resulting in higher intensity in pixels that change between blood and tissue during the cardiac cycle. The dynamic images were reviewed by an expert cardiologist who provided gold standard grades for regional wall motion and by four radiologists. Then the radiologists reviewed and graded the same MR images in combination with parametric images. Grades assigned to each segment in ...
The Relationship between Location Choice and Earnings Inequality

This paper provides new empirical evidence about how workers’ locations affect inequality in earnings and costs of living. I find that young college graduates grow up and choose to live in locations that have smaller effects on their own wages and higher costs of living, relative to locations of their less-educated peers. Consequently, young college graduates’ migration behavior actually decreases earnings inequality, at least in the short-run. In addition, college graduate movers choose destinations with higher average wages (for all workers) and tend to be more responsive to local labor demand shocks. I infer from these observations that college graduates choose to live in more economically productive labor markets than do workers with less education. I argue that young college graduates accept relatively low wages and high costs of living in exchange for local learning opportunities in large, dense cities.
A codesigned on-chip logic minimizer

Boolean logic minimization is traditionally used in logic synthesis tools running on powerful desktop computers. However, logic minimization has recently been proposed for dynamic use in embedded systems, including network route table reduction, network access control list table reduction, and dynamic hardware/software partitioning. These new uses require logic minimization to run dynamically as part of an embedded system's active operation. Performing such dynamic logic minimization on-chip greatly reduces system complexity and security versus an approach that involves communication with a desktop logic minimizer. An on-chip minimizer must be exceptionally lean yet yield good enough results. Previous software-only on-chip minimizer results have been good, but we show that a codesigned minimizer can be much better, executing nearly 8 times faster and consuming nearly 60% less energy, while yielding identical results.
Novel crosslinked membranes based on sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) for direct methanol fuel cells

Novel covalently crosslinked membranes based on sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) and carboxylated polysulfone exhibit much lower methanol crossover and better performance in direct methanol fuel cells at 65 °C in 1 and 2 M methanol solutions compared to Nafion 115 membranes.
Management of Genital Infection Caused by Human Papillomavirus

Recent studies of genital wart therapy have evaluated laser surgery, interferon, and 5-fluorouracil. On the basis of considerations of efficacy, cost, adverse effects, and recurrence rates, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen remains the recommended therapy for most sexually transmitted warts. None of the treatment methods eradicates the papillomavirus, and genital wart recurrences are seen with each method. The influence of treatment of genital warts on the natural course and sequelae of genital papillomavirus infection is unknown.
Clinical significance of respiratory bronchiolitis on open lung biopsy and its relationship to smoking related interstitial lung disease

Background-Respiratory bronchiolitis-associated interstitial lung disease (RBILD) is a rare form of interstitial lung disease which may present in similar fashion to other types of chronic interstitial pneumonia. The purpose of this study was to undertake a clinicopathological review of 10 patients with RBILD and to examine the clinical and imaging data related to its histopathological pattern, in particular the relationship of RBILD to smoking.Methods-Thirteen out of 168 retrospectively reviewed patients, from whom biopsy specimens were taken for suspected diffuse lung disease, were identified with a histopathological pattern of RBILD. Three cases were rejected as follow up data were unavailable. The 10 remaining cases constituted the study group and both clinical and imaging data were collected from patients' notes and referring physicians.Results-Histopathologically, four cases of RBILD overlapped with the pattern of desquamative interstitial pneumonitis (DIP) and nine also had microscopic evidence of centrilobular emphysema. Nine patients were smokers, ranging from 3 to 80 pack years. The one non-smoker had an occupational exposure to the fumes of solder flux. The sex distribution was equal with an age range of 32-65 years. Two patients were clubbed. Lung function tests showed both restrictive and obstructive patterns together with severe reductions in carbon monoxide transfer factor in seven patients. Chest radiographs showed reticular or reticulonodular infiltrates in five patients and a ground glass pattern in two. CT scans were consistent with either DIP or RBILD in six of eight patients. Although seven patients remained stable or improved, either with or without treatment, three patients deteriorated.Conclusions-This study adds weight to the hypothesis that smoking can cause clinically significant interstitial lung disease, with deterioration in pulmonary function despite treatment. Given the overlapping histopathological patterns of RBILD and DIP and their strong association with smoking, the term "smoking related interstitial lung disease" is suggested for those patients who are smokers.
On Volterra Dislocations of Finitely Deforming Continua

In the context of finite deformations, a purely kinematical treatment of Volterra dislocations is presented. These dislocations correspond to deformations that have a jump discontinuity across a singular surface in a fixed reference configuration of the continuum, but whose right Cauchy-Green deformation tensor field is continuous and has second partial derivatives that are continuous. Analytical and geometrical proofs of Weingarten's theorem for finite deformations are given. Tune-dependent Volterra dislocations are also considered.
Empirical Relationships between Need for Cognition and Cognitive Style: Implications for Consumer Psychology

Earlier research by Cacioppo and Petty has shown need for cognition scores to be related to the early conceptualization of cognitive style of Witkin, Dyk, Faterson, Goodenough, and Karp. For a samp...
Bulk prefetching with deadline-driven scheduling to minimize startup latency of continuous media servers

Researches on the continuous media (CM) servers have focused on the throughput issues because the most popular CM application has been the video-on-demand system which provides relatively long video clips or movies. Latency issue has received little attention in such a system because a few seconds up to a few minutes latency is considered tolerable. However, as a variety of multimedia applications are emerging, some applications begin to require interactive presentation of continuous media where the most challenging issue is to minimize startup latency, i.e., minimizing the time between the issuing a request and the start of the display. This paper proposes bulk prefetching techniques to minimize startup latency and analyzes their performance on multi-disk CM servers utilizing a deadline-driven scheduling and random data placement. Simulation results demonstrate a fraction of a second startup latency, which is acceptable for most interactive applications.
Classroom Management to Support Active Middle Level Classrooms

This article presents a discussion of connections between middle level concepts of teaching and learning and managing a classroom through creating opportunities for active and engaged learning. The article argues and concludes that classroom management is more about managing learning than managing behavior and that one effective way to manage student behavior is to create an environment where students continuously engage in active learning (Haydon, Borders, Embury, & Clarke, 2009).
Synthesis of intelligent switching systems using neural Petri nets

An intelligent switching system is a structure that is able to evaluate criteria of the system and dynamically make a selection from among a discrete set of options. The goal of our research is to develop a system for distributed control, where the control activity is governed by a set of devices that cooperatively learn and make decisions. The test bed for this system is a computer-controlled model railroad. In this test paradigm, each track switch is an intelligent switching device. A neural Petri net is used to model the switch. This paper presents the design and development of the switch, and a modeling of the railroad.
A new feature selection method based on support vector machines for text categorisation

As a machine intelligence paradigm, the support vector machines (SVMs) have tremendous potential for helping people to classify text document into a fixed number of predefined categories. The purpose of this paper is to discuss a new method of feature selection combined with principal component analysis and class profile-based feature as an input vector for SVMs classifier, and to demonstrate the effectiveness of this process. This paper also demonstrates that an applied method with SVMs improves categorisation performance and reduces the amount of time required to configure a learning machine.
Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus-Encoded LANA Can Induce Chromosomal Instability through Targeted Degradation of the Mitotic Checkpoint Kinase Bub1

Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) has a significant contributory role in the development of three major human neoplastic or lymphoproliferative diseases: Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), primary effusion lymphoma (PEL), and multicentric Castleman's disease (MCD). These diseases are associated with chromosomal instability, a hallmark of human cancer. The latency-associated nuclear antigen (LANA) encoded by KSHV plays a key role in regulating a number of cellular pathways critical for oncogenesis. KSHV LANA alone can induce the development of B-cell hyperplasia and lymphoma in mice expressing LANA. LANA also induces chromosomal instability, thus promoting oncogenesis. However, the precise mechanism underlying LANA-mediated chromosomal instability remains uncharted. Here we report that LANA promoted the induction of chromosomal instability and the formation of micronuclei and multinucleation through its interaction with one of the critical spindle checkpoint proteins, Bub1, and the resulting degradation of Bub1. This interaction occurs through the Knl and kinase domains of Bub1, identified as important for stability and degradation. These results suggest that LANA can dysregulate Bub1 activity, which leads to aberrant chromosome replication and aneuploidy, thus contributing to KSHV-mediated oncogenesis. IMPORTANCE This work represents the first set of results identifying a novel mechanism by which LANA, a latency-associated antigen encoded by KSHV, can induce the degradation of Bub1, a spindle checkpoint protein that is important for spindle checkpoint signaling and chromosome segregation. The downregulation of Bub1 mediated by LANA resulted in chromosomal instability, a hallmark of cancer. We further investigated the specific domains of Bub1 that are required for the interaction between LANA and Bub1. The results demonstrated that the Knl and kinase domains of Bub1 are required for the interaction between LANA and Bub1. In addition, we also investigated the mechanism by which LANA promoted Bub1 degradation. Our results showed that LANA interacted physically with the anaphase-promoting complex (APC/C), thus promoting the degradation of Bub1 in a ubiquitin-dependent process.
RAPD Polymorphism as an Indicator of Population Structure, Breeding System, and Speciation in Fossombronia

Abstract The breeding system of Fossombronia foveolata and genetic differentiation in the F. foveolata species complex were studied using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. Polymorphism values for cloned siblings were not significantly different from those obtained from amplification of identical DNA samples. These results support the hypothesis that sporophytes display high levels of homozygosity. Nevertheless, low levels of genetic differentiation were detected between F. foveolata populations from spatially separated sites in southern Illinois. Monomorphism among siblings, low levels of polymorphism among southern Illinois populations, sporophyte production in clonal cultures maintained in an environmental chamber, growth of cultured clonal mats to sizes comparable to field populations, and short sperm and spore dispersal distances suggest that F. foveolata populations are probably established from single founder events and are maintained through inbreeding and vegetative reproduction. De...
Penetrating enemy territory: Soluble PCNA-peptides stress out MYCN-overexpressing neuroblastomas

Since its first description in 1910 (Wright, 1910),neuroblastomahas emerged as one of the most common cancers in infants less than one year of age. MYCN (MYC neuroblastoma-derived homolog) amplification was one of the first reliable biomarkers and is to this day an indicator of rapid disease progression and poor prognosis (Huang and Weiss, 2013). High levels of MYCN expression strongly correlate with metastatic behavior, and sadly about 20% of high-risk neuroblastoma patients are refractory to chemotherapy. MYCN is a member of the MYC family of transcription factors all of which are homologous to the viral oncogene v-myc (for myelocytomatosis). Similar to MYC, MYCN heterodimerizes with MAX at E-box sequences and induces a large number of target genes that drive proliferative responses (Huang and Weiss, 2013). Both MYC and MYCN are difficult to block directly due to their structural specifications, and efforts aimed at functionally inhibiting MYC family members have remained largely unsuccessful. A study by Gu et al. in this issue of EBioMedicine demonstrates that neuroblastomas with high-level MYCN amplifications carry a particular burden: they experience chronic replication stress and rely on signaling
Connecting users to instruments and sensors: portals as multi-user GUIs for instrument and sensor facilities: Research Articles

The Common Instrument Middleware Architecture (CIMA) aims at integrating instruments and sensors into computing and storage Grids through a standard interface methodology that existing and future instrument facilities can provide. This instrument interface provides a base which data acquisition and reduction applications can rely on as the design of the underlying facilities evolves and changes. After connecting instruments and sensors in a reliable and secure manner to applications, the next step is to integrate instruments, data acquisition, reduction and analysis applications with community provided resources such as application servers, temporary and archival storage. Practices and workflows at the instrument facilities also need to be captured and presented to users. Portals provide a natural approach to a ‘community’ interface to instrument and sensor facilities. Here we describe the CIMA Crystallography portal, a portal based on GridSphere that provides a user interface to equipment and workflows for a global federation of crystallography laboratories. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Chinch Bug (Heteroptera: Lygaeidae) Feeding in Seedling Field Corn

Corn seedlings were infested for 7 days in greenhouse experiments with 0, 2, 5, 10, 15, and 20 field-collected adult Blissus leucopterus leucopterus (Say) at three different stages of plant development. A highly significant interaction between plant developmental stage and insect infestation rate was obtained. Plants infested at the V1, V2, and V2.5 stage of development exhibited significant reductions in height at infestation levels of 10, 15, and 20 insects per plant, respectively.
Investigation of gap-closing interdigitated capacitors for electrostatic vibration energy harvesting

This paper reports on the dynamic characteristics of a MEMS electrostatic harvester employing interdigitated gap-closing topology. Devices are fabricated using SOIMUMPS technology and are characterized with and without biasing voltages for a broad range of excitation accelerations. At low vibration amplitudes the presence of a dc bias causes the resonant frequency peak to shift to lower frequencies with increasing bias. At higher vibration amplitudes the dynamic response of the devices exhibits the behavior of a Duffing oscillator with spring softening due to nonlinear stiffness attributed to the effect of electrostatic forces. Specifically, the devices exhibit sweep direction hysteresis with jump phenomena due to the multivaluedness of the response curve. Amplitude sweeps at constant frequency and varying bias voltage also show jump phenomena, highlighting how slight differences in operating conditions dramatically affect device performance. Spring hardening effects are reported for devices contaminated with dust particles. The paper also discusses SOIMUMPS limitations, the importance of reducing off-axis vibration during testing, characterization methods, and the effect of grounding on parasitic capacitance.
The role of the community-oriented primary care physician.

The role of community-oriented primary care is the subject of considerable debate and controversy, leading to confusion for both its practitioners and educators. This paper attempts to clarify this role by applying systems theory to the concept of community-oriented primary care as first-contact medical care for the patient, in the context of the community. Relationships between the primary care physician and the following entities are defined: the patient; the physician’s and patient’s community, culture, and society; the physician’s office; the medical care system; and the physician’s and patient’s families. The educational implications of the resultant role are discussed.
Selective Data Analyses, Photo Manipulation, and Stylistic Embellishment for Honest Message Design

AbstractPhoto ma tables. However, by applying various methods of data analysis and representing data graphically, designers can convey a message in different ways without jeopardizing th of the message. First, establish the intensions of a message. Then identify various methods for nipulation and stylistic embellishment can be used to create dishonest figures and e integrity analyzing the data and make decisions about which method is most appropriate for representing the intended message. Once the data have been represented, photo manipulation or stylistic embellishment can be applied to enhance the message. Both designers and readers must be mindful of possibilities for dishonesty in graphic messages associated with these techniques. Graphic examples are provided along with the recommendation to remain aware of the limitations of data sources.
Chinese Wall Security Policy Models

In 1989, Brewer and Nash (BN) presented a fascinating idea, called Chinese wall security policy model, for commercial security. Their idea was based on the analysis of the notion, Conflict of Interest binary Relation (CIR). Unfortunately, their formalization did not fully catch the appropriate properties of CIR. In this paper, we present a theory based on granulation that has captured the essence of BN’s intuitive idea. The results are more than the Chinese wall models: Malicious Trojan horses in certain DAC Model (discretionary access control) can be controlled or confined.
Greater Food Reward Sensitivity Is Associated with More Frequent Intake of Discretionary Foods in a Nationally Representative Sample of Young Adults

Food reward sensitivity may influence individual susceptibility to an environment replete with highly palatable foods of minimal nutritional value. These foods contain combinations of added sugar, fat, and/or salt that may enhance their motivational salience. This study examined associations of food reward sensitivity with eating behaviors in the NEXT Generation Health Study, a nationally representative sample of US young adults. Participants (n=2202) completed self-report measures including the Power of Food Scale, assessing food reward sensitivity, and intake frequency of 14 food groups. Multiple linear regressions estimated associations of food reward sensitivity with each of the eating behaviors adjusting for covariates. Higher food reward sensitivity was associated with more frequent intake of fast food (b±linearized SE=0.24±0.05,p<.001), sweet and salty snacks (0.21±0.05,p<0.001), foods made with cheese (0.14±0.06,p=0.03), soda (0.12±0.04,p=0.009), processed meats (0.12±0.05,p=0.045), and fish (0.08±0.03 p=0.03), but was not associated with intake frequency of fruit or juice, green or orange vegetables, beans, whole grains, nuts/seeds, or dairy products. Food reward sensitivity was associated with greater intake of discretionary foods, but was not associated with intake of most health-promoting foods, suggesting food reward sensitivity may lead to preferential intake of unhealthful foods.