cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enhancement of mesencephalic reticular neuronal responses to sensory stimuli with pentylenetetrazol

Abstract The effects of pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) on the responses of mesencephalic reticular formation (MRF) neurons of the cat to visual, auditory and somatosensory stimuli have been evaluated. Subconvulsant doses of PTZ caused over 90% of MRF neurons which were previously unresponsive to any sensory stimuli to become abruptly responsive to stimuli in at least one sensory modality. Administration of PTZ also enhanced the responses of over 90% of previously responsive MRF neurons. Following termination of PTZ administration the response of these neurons gradually returned towards predrug patterns. These changes in MRF neuronal responses correlated well with the PTZ-induced changes in MRF sensory-evoked field potential changes and indicate one possible mechanism for these effects. Response attenuation (habituation) observed in MRF neurons appeared to be reversed by PTZ administration in some cases. These effects on MRF neurons may play a role in the triggering of generalized seizures by PTZ administration and may also be involved in seizure mechanisms of other convulsant drugs.
Sub-Doppler polarization spectroscopy of Zeeman splitting in molecular spectra

Abstract Polarization spectroscopy offers certain advantages for sub-Doppler studies of Mj sublevels in Zeeman effect studies due to the Mj dependence of the line strength functions and the Zeeman selection rules. This is demonstrated in a comparison with sub-Doppler intermodulated fluorescence spectroscopy.
Transverse myelitis after lumbar steroid injection in a patient with Behcet's disease.

STUDY DESIGN: Case report. OBJECTIVE: We describe a patient who developed transverse myelitis (TM) following a nerve root injection of steroids and anesthetic at L2 for radicular pain. SETTING: Baltimore, MD, USA. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: A 42-year-old woman developed progressive lower extremity weakness and paresthesias, a T12 sensory level and urinary urgency 8 h following the injection of Marcaine and Celestone into the left L2 nerve root. Magnetic resonance imaging showed T2 signal abnormality with gadolinium enhancement from T12 to the conus medullaris and there was no evidence of traumatic injury to the spinal cord. The patient had undiagnosed Behcet's disease (BD) and had experienced multiple episodes of pathergy: hyper-responsiveness of the skin to local trauma, resulting in inflammation and edema. Intravenous steroids were initiated and the patient experienced a near total clinical resolution and a complete radiologic resolution. CONCLUSION: Since the spinal cord inflammation developed after and immediately adjacent to local spinal trauma, we suggest that the TM in this patient was related to BD and was a pathergy response in the spinal cord.
On specification error in the general linear model and weak mean square error superiority of the mixed estimator

The case of applying mixed estimation to a general linear model that is misspecified due to missing relevant explanatory variables is investigated. It is found that when the prior information is unbiased and independent of the sample information, the mixed estimator is not necessarily weak mean square error superior to the ordinary least squares estimator of the parameters of the model. In fact, the mixed model using the unbiased prior information can accentuate the specification bias.
The role of CD10 in distinguishing atypical fibroxanthoma from sarcomatoid (spindle cell) squamous cell carcinoma.

Background: The role of CD10 needs clarification in a broader immunohistochemical battery for distinguishing atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX) from spindle cell squamous cell carcinoma (sSCC). Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 23 cutaneous spindle cell tumors previously classified as AFX (n = 11) or as sSCC (n = 12). Each tumor was stained with CD10, S-100, p63 and two or more cytokeratin stains. Defining AFX as a diagnosis of exclusion based on multiple negative cytokeratin stains and negative p63 staining, we reclassified four squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) as AFX. CD10 staining was reviewed and graded in all tumors. Results: Fifteen tumors were classified as AFX. Strongly positive CD10 staining was observed in all 15 AFXs, as well as four (50%) of the eight SCCs. Expression of p63 was seen in six sSCCs (75%). Conclusions: CD10 is consistently expressed by AFX. However, CD10 is also often strongly expressed by sSCC. Positive staining with p63 favors a diagnosis of sSCC. An immunohistochemical battery useful for distinguishing AFX from sSCC may include CD10, p63 and two cytokeratin markers. However, CD10 alone should not be relied upon in the distinction of these entities. Wieland CN, Dyck R, Weenig RH, Comfere NI. The role of CD10 in distinguishing atypical fibroxanthoma from sarcomatoid (spindle cell) squamous cell carcinoma.
Design of minimax controllers for linear systems with non‐zero initial states under specified information structures

In this paper, we obtain the solution to the discrete-time, linear-quadratic, finite-horizon disturbance rejection problem, with hard bounds on the disturbance and with a known or an unknown non-zero initial state. It is shown that there exist two regions in the space of initial conditions: one where a pure-strategy saddle point exists, and the other where no pure-strategy saddle point exists. In the latter region, the structure of the minimax controller is fixed throughout, and a saddle point exists in the class of mixed policies. The paper also develops a general algorithm for the construction of such saddle points under different information structures, and illustrates this algorithm on a numerical example.
Exploring the health care status of two communities in the Dominican Republic.

Background: This article looks at two impoverished communities in the Dominican Republic that are working in collaboration with a USA-based organization to meet the physical, emotional, educational, and spiritual needs of the children in these areas. Method: An exploratory descriptive study was performed to establish baseline information. The knowledge gained from this study will provide guidance in the development of effective school-based strategies to meet the physical, emotional, and nutritional needs of the children. Data gathered from health records obtained during medical clinics in these two communities were reviewed. Descriptive statistics were performed to examine demographics, chief complaints, diagnoses, and treatments of approximately 1500 Dominicans. Findings: Results support that living conditions and the lack of primary care continue to underpin the majority of health issues within these communities. Outcomes: School-based health initiatives along with a well child-screening programme are being developed to enhance the health of the children in these communities.
Collection of low-energy secondary electrons and imaging in a low-voltage SEM

One of the factors that influences the nature of secondary electron imaging and the subsequent metrology of submicron features in a SEM is the system's ability to collect low energy secondary electrons (LES). In a SEM, a bias voltage is applied to the detector grid to enhance collection and pull electrons from the wafer. However, at low beam voltages the bias voltage that can be applied is limited in order not to deflect or interfere with the incident beam. For even moderate aspect ratios of submicron features (3:1), there is a reduction in the collection efficiency that may affect imaging. In this paper, we use a simple model of LES trajectories to simulate both symmetric and asymmetric collection systems. Formulas for the collection angles are given as a function of the aspect ratio of the feature and parameters of the collection system. These formulas can be incorporated into Monte Carlo, diffusion or other phenomenological modeling to predict the effect of collection system design on SEM imaging. An example is given using a previously published model [Nyyssonen, Proc. SPIE Vol. 921, pp. 48 - 56, 1988]. This model computes the surface integral of a probability density function to predict SEM images. It is shown that reduced LES collection efficiency may introduce artifacts in the SEM image of both lines and trenches. These artifacts can be used as a method of characterizing the efficiency of the collection system when well- characterized samples are used.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Phenotypic and functional T-cell aging in rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta): differential behavior of CD4 and CD8 subsets

A prominent theory of immune senescence holds that repeated antigenic stimulation and decreased production of naive cells combine to progressively exhaust the reserve of lymphocytes available to fight new pathogens, culminating in an accumulation of lymphocytes that achieved replicative senescence. A well-defined primate model of immune senescence in vivo would greatly facilitate testing of this theory. Here, we investigated phenotypic and functional T-cell aging in the rhesus macaques (RMs), currently the dominant primate model of AIDS. Our results show that sharp differences exist between the CD8 and CD4 T-cell subsets in (1) cell-cycle programs (as assessed by both in vitro proliferation and in vivo turnover measurement); (2) CD28 regulation on cell-cycle entry; and (3) accumulation of immediate effector cells among the CD28- cells, believed to be close to or at replicative senescence. These results further suggest poor reliability of CD28 as a marker for senescence. We suggest that some of the T-cell aging phenomenology in RMs can be ascribed to accentuation over time of the inherent differences in activation programs in CD8 and CD4 T cells.
Effect of Computational Grid on Performance of Two-Equation Models of Turbulence for Film Cooling Applications

The effect of the computational grid on the performance of two-equation models of turbulence in predicting film cooling effectiveness has been investigated. The four turbulence models are: the standard, RNG, and realizable k-e, and the standard k-ω models in the CFD code FLUENT. The geometry and flow-field were taken from an experimental study on discrete-hole film-cooling on a flat plate and are simulated in FLUENT. Some of the parameters are: Pitch-to-diameter ratio of 3.04, injection tube length-to-diameter ratio of 4.6. Two blowing ratios of M = 0.5 and 1.5 were considered. In earlier studies presented in Turbo Expo 2006 and 2007, a hexahedral grid for the main flow and tetrahedral grid for the short injection tubes and plenum were used as suggested by the FLUENT users’ manual. The results of predictions both under low and high freestream turbulence and for high and low blowing ratios were not that good. It was decided that some of these differences arise from the use of “hybrid mesh” with a non-conformal interface boundary between them. Also tetrahedral mesh in the injection tube could not resolve the boundary layer there leading to incorrect injection profiles at the hole exit. In order to correct this deficiency, in the current study a single hexahedral grid is used both in the injection tube, plenum and the main flow regions eliminating the need for merging two different meshes and also leading to correct boundary layer resolution in the tube resulting in more realistic jet exit profiles. The difference between the model calculations and data for effectiveness are reduced to within 40% in the near field (∼x/D 8). This shows the importance of using correct mesh which fits the problem physics and expected flow pattern for the accurate solutions and indicated the necessity of using CFD codes such as FLUENT with care and experience. There were still differences between the results for four models. It looks like k-e and k-ω models give the best predictions and the trend of the data for the centerline effectiveness in the near field, whereas all models give good (within 5–10%) predictions of the centerline effectiveness in the far field.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Analysis of an infinite array of rectangular microstrip patches with idealized probe feeds

A solution is presented for the problem of an infinite array of microstrip patches fed with short current elements. The input reflection coefficient is calculated versus scan angle in an arbitrary scan plane, and the effects of substrate parameters and grid spacings are considered. The scan blindness phenomenom is observed and discussed in terms of a forced surface wave response. Measurements from waveguide simulators confirm the theory for thin substrates.
Reply to Comment on the "New Equation of Motion for Classical Charged Particles"

We reply to a criticism made on the new equation of motion proposed by us for classical charged particles.
State-of-the-art in CT hardware and scan modes for cardiovascular CT

Multidetector row computed tomography (CT) allows noninvasive anatomic and functional imaging of the heart, great vessels, and coronary arteries. In recent years, there have been several advances in CT hardware, which have expanded the clinical utility of CT for cardiovascular imaging; such advances are ongoing. This review article from the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography Basic and Emerging Sciences and Technology Working Group summarizes the technical aspects of current state-of-the-art CT hardware and describes the scan modes this hardware supports for cardiovascular CT imaging.
Combined surgical and endovascular treatment of a recurrent A3-A3 junction aneurysm unsuitable for stand-alone clip ligation or coil occlusion. Technical note.

Recurrent aneurysms of the anterior circulation that are distal to the anterior communicating artery (ACoA) but proximal to the callosomarginal–pericallosal bifurcation can pose a treatment challenge. The authors present one such case, in which the patient was treated with pericallosal artery–pericallosal artery (PerA–PerA) side-to-side bypass, followed by endovascular obliteration of the proximal A2 parent vessel. This patient, in whom an ACoA aneurysm had been treated with clip ligation 5 years previously, presented with a new, mid-A2, right-sided aneurysm with the out-flow artery arising from the dome of the lesion. The treatment plan included two steps: an interhemispheric transcallosal approach for PerA–PerA side-to-side anastomosis; and endovascular coil embolization of the right A2 branch feeding the aneurysm. Postprocedure angiography demonstrated no ipsilateral aneurysm filling and excellent bilateral distal outflow from the anterior cerebral artery (ACA). The use of PerA–PerA side-to-side bypass...
Characterization of Isolated Urethral Smooth Muscle Cells and Their Incorporation Into a Tissue Engineered Urethral Wrap

Millions of people worldwide suffer from an involuntary leakage of urine, a condition known as urinary incontinence. In the US alone, the estimated cost of managing this is more than $16 billion [1]. Stress urinary incontinence (SUI), the most common form, is characterized by involuntary leakage of urine from effort or exertion during actions such as laughing, coughing, or sneezing. SUI largely occurs as a result of weak or damaged pelvic muscles that support the bladder and urethra, which makes the urethra unable to maintain its seal and allows urine to leak. Current SUI treatments such as pelvic floor muscle training, vaginal inserts, pharmacologic therapeutics, and surgical procedures are limited by ineffectiveness and/or subsequent complications [2, 3].Copyright © 2009 by ASME
An authentic imaging probe to track cell fate from beginning to end

Accurate tracing of cell viability is critical for optimizing delivery methods and evaluating the efficacy and safety of cell therapeutics. A nanoparticle-based cell tracker is developed to image cell fate from live to dead. The particle is fabricated from two types of optically quenched polyelectrolytes, a life indicator and a death indicator, through electrostatic interactions. On incubation with cells, the fabricated bifunctional nanoprobes are taken up efficiently and the first colour is produced by normal intracellular proteolysis, reflecting the healthy status of the cells. Depending on the number of coated layers, the signal can persist for several replication cycles. However, as the cells begin dying, the second colour appears quickly to reflect the new cell status. Using this chameleon-like cell tracker, live cells can be distinguished from apoptotic and necrotic cells instantly and definitively.
A model for soil 14CO2 and its implications for using 14C to date pedogenic carbonate

Abstract A diffusion-reaction model for soil 14 CO 2 is described that analyzes the 14 CO 2 distribution in soils. It shows that the 14 C content of soil CO 2 is not the same as that of atmospheric CO 2 and varies with depth depending on various factors. The most important factors affecting the 14 C content of soil CO 2 include the 14 C content of soil organic matter, the relative contribution of root respired CO 2 to total CO 2 production, soil respiration rate, atmospheric CO 2 concentration and 14 CO 2 content, and soil properties such as temperature and moisture content etc. The 14 C content of soil CO 2 not only can be a sensitive indicator of the residence time of decomposing organic matter in the soil, but also determines the 14 C content of pedogenic carbonate. Our model suggests that soil CO 2 could be enriched or depleted in 14 C relative to atmospheric CO 2 , depending on the relative contribution of root respiration to total soil respiration and on the turnover rate of the soil organic matter contributing to the soil CO 2 . Therefore, the initial 14 C dates of soil carbonate could differ from the true ages of pedogenesis. The processes and factors considered by the model are a first step in determining whether the 14 C content of soil carbonate could lead to reliable dates of pedogenesis.
Hemoglobin A1c in obese children and adolescents who participated in a weight management program.

Aim: The objective of this study was to compare hemoglobin A 1c values in non-diabetic obese children and adolescents before enrollment and after completion of a 12-wk weight management program. Methods: Seventeen children and adolescents, age 10.8±2.5 y (mean ± 1 SD), joined a multidisciplinary weight management program. Hemoglobin A 1c and body mass index were measured at the start and at the completion of the program in each participant. Results: Body mass index at the start of the program was 34.3±6.4 kg/m 2 . Body mass index at the end of the program was 33±6.6 kg/m 2 (p <0.05). Hemoglobin A 1c at the beginning of the program was 5.3±0.3%. Hemoglobin A 1c at the completion of the program was 5±0.2% (p <0.05). Conclusion: In this group of overweight children, hemoglobin A 1c decreased significantly after participating in a multidisciplinary weight loss program. These findings further point to the beneficial effect of lifestyle changes on the metabolic status of obese children.
Elastic magnetic electron scattering and nuclear moments

Abstract Just as elastic Coulomb scattering provides the best picture of the nuclear charge distribution, elastic magnetic electron scattering out to high momentum transfer brings out fine details of the nuclear ground-state current and magnetization distributions. We present a series of theoretical observations on the multipoles contributing to elastic magnetic scattering including a detailed analysis of the forms of the multipole operators and single particle current densities and give a pictorial representation of these quantities. We then present a general theoretical analysis of the nuclear matrix elements of the multipole operators. A unified analysis of this process throughout the periodic table from A = 3 to 209 is presented using single-particle wave functions (both harmonic oscillator and Woods-Saxon) with parameters determined entirely from elastic charge scattering. This analysis is compared with the rather limited existing data. Finally, we discuss the relation to isoelastic semi-leptonic weak processes and show that electron scattering provides an essentially model-independent basis for the analysis of these processes.
Dielectric Breakdown in a Dilute Plasma

Description of tests performed to determine the effects of high voltages on dielectrics that are to insulate solar cell arrays operating at voltages up to 16 kV from the electrically active plasma of the space environment at 500 km altitude. The tests were performed on dielectrics considered for this application at positive bias voltages as high as 20 kV dc relative to ground in an argon plasma with electron number densities of approximately one million per cu cm. Teflon specimens displayed higher breakdown voltages than all other dielectrics tested.
Syntheses of 1,3-disubstituted imidazo[l,5-a]pyridines

Abstract Facile syntheses of 1,3-disubstituted imidazo[l,5-a]pyridines have been effected by treatment of ketimines derived from di-2-pyridyl ketone with LDA and benzophenone, reactions of benzyl amine with di-2-pyridyl ketone in boron trifluoride etherate, and reaction of di-2-pyridyl methanamine imines with molecular sieves in benzene.
Selective inhibition of the inducible isoform of nitric oxide synthase prevents pulmonary transvascular flux during acute endotoxemia

Abstract The inducible isoform of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is expressed in various organs, including the lung, during systemic endotoxemia. Overproduction of nitrix oxide (NO) by iNOS contributes significantly to the vascular failure and end-organ damage in endotoxemia. Using selective pharmacological inhibitors of iNOS, the purpose of this study was to define the role of iNOS in a rat model of endotoxin-induced pulmonary transvascular flux (TVF). Lung TVF was assessed by a method of Evans Blue permeability index (PI). Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (15 mg/kg intraperitoneally [IP]) significantly increased pulmonary iNOS activity and serum levels of nitrite/nitrate (NO 2 /NO 3 ). This was accompanied by a significant elevation of the PI 6 hours after injection. Selective iNOS inhibition with either S-methyl isothiourea (SMT; 5 mg/kg IP) or aminoguanidine (AG; 20 mg/kg IP), administered 2 hours after LPS injection, significantly prevented the increase in PI associated with LPS injection. Similarly, inhibition of the induction of iNOS with dexamethasone (10 mg/kg IP), given 3 hours before LPS, also inhibited the increase in PI. All three treatments significantly prevented the increase in both lung iNOS activity and serum NO 2 /NO 3 associated with endotoxemia. In conclusion, the overproduction of NO generated by iNOS during systemic endotoxemia causes a vascular leak in the lung. Thus, it is speculated that selective inhibition of iNOS may be beneficial in preventing the development of acute respiratory failure in sepsis.
Effects of Two Types of Motor Practice on Stuttering Adaptation

The present study identifies and compares the effects of two types of motor practice on stuttering adaptation. The study was designed to determine if whispered reading practice affects stuttering a...
Opportunities and challenges for the integration of massively parallel genomic sequencing into clinical practice: lessons from the ClinSeq project

Opportunities and challenges for the integration of massively parallel genomic sequencing into clinical practice: lessons from the ClinSeq project
The dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in type 2 diabetes mellitus: cardiovascular safety.

AbstractThe dipeptidyl peptidase–4 (DPP–4) inhibitors are a relatively new class of oral antidiabetic agents that improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. These agents differ in structure, but all act by inhibiting the DPP–4 enzyme. Dipeptidyl peptidase–4 inhibition increases levels of the incretin hormones glucagon–like peptide–1 and glucose–dependent insulinotropic peptide, which in turn stimulate insulin secretion in a glucose–dependent fashion. Clinical trials have shown that DPP–4 inhibitors provide significant reductions in glycated hemoglobin levels, with a low risk of hypoglycemia. Animal model experiments and proof–of–concept studies suggest that the incretins favorably affect the cardiovascular system; it is possible that these same effects may be conveyed by DPP–4 inhibitor therapy. Pooled and meta–analyses of DPP–4 inhibitor clinical trial data have shown no increase in major adverse cardiovascular events, and, in fact, suggest a potential cardiovascular benefit to s...
The origins of vibration theory

Abstract The Ionian School of natural philosophy introduced the scientific method of dealing with natural phenomena and the rigorous proofs for abstract propositions. Vibration theory was initiated by the Pythagoreans in the fifth century bc , in association with the theory of music and the theory of acoustics. They observed the natural frequency of vibrating systems and proved that it is a system property and that it does not depend on the excitation. Pythagoreans determined the fundamental natural frequencies of several simple systems, such as vibrating strings, pipes, vessels and circular plates. Aristoteles and the Peripatetic School founded mechanics and developed a fundamental understanding of statics and dynamics. In Alexandrian times there were substantial engineering developments in the field of vibration. The pendulum as a vibration, and probably time, measuring device was known in antiquity, and was further developed by the end of the first millennium ad .
POLARIZED PROTON TARGET FOR USE IN INTENSE ELECTRON AND PHOTON BEAMS.

Abstract Constructional details are given for the polarized butanol target which was developed for use at the Stanford Linear Accelerator. A sample preparation technique using ribbed plastic bags was used. The behavior under radiation damage is discussed. It was found to be possible to anneal out much of the radiation damage. Results obtained with a glycol target are also discussed.
The Polyphenols (−)-Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate and Luteolin Synergistically Inhibit TGF-β-Induced Myofibroblast Phenotypes through RhoA and ERK Inhibition

The presence of reactive stroma, predominantly composed of myofibroblasts, is directly associated with and drives prostate cancer progression. We have previously shown that (−)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), in the form of Polyphenon E, significantly decreases serum levels of HGF and VEGF in prostate cancer patients. Given that HGF and VEGF are secreted from surrounding tumor myofibroblasts, these observations suggested that EGCG may inhibit prostate cancer-associated myofibroblast differentiation. Herein, we demonstrate that micromolar combinations of EGCG and a second polyphenol, luteolin, synergistically inhibit TGF-β-induced myofibroblast phenotypes in prostate fibroblast cell lines, as observed primarily by potentiation of fibronectin expression. Functionally, EGCG and luteolin inhibited TGF-β-induced extracellular matrix contraction, an enhancer of tumor cell invasion. EGCG and luteolin inhibited downstream TGF-β-induced signaling, including activation of ERK and AKT, respectively, but mechanistically, only ERK appeared to be necessary for TGF-β-induced fibronectin expression. Furthermore, neither EGCG nor luteolin affected Smad signaling or nuclear translocation. Rho signaling was found to be necessary for TGF-β-induced fibronectin expression and EGCG and luteolin each reduced RhoA activation. Finally, EGCG and luteolin were shown to reverse TGF-β-induced fibronectin expression, implicating that these natural compounds may be useful not only in preventing but also in treating already activated myofibroblasts and the diseases they cause, including cancer. The ability of EGCG and luteolin to synergistically target myofibroblasts suggests that combined clinical use of these compounds could prevent or reverse cancer progression through targeting the tumor microenvironment, in addition to the tumor itself.
Propensity for self-development of leadership attributes: Understanding, predicting, and supporting performance of leader self-development

Abstract Little systematic research has been reported to advance understanding of the characteristics associated with individuals who initiate self-development activities to grow leadership skills. The purpose of the present research was to examine cognitive, dispositional, and motivational precursors to the propensity to engage in leadership self-development. A second purpose was to examine the role of organizational support on the relationships between self-development propensity and reported self-development activities. Over 400 junior-military leaders participated in a three-stage survey administration designed to test a structural model of leader self-development. Results indicate that a person having individual characteristics related to mastery, work, and career-growth orientations displayed more motivation to perform leader self-development and more skilled at performing instructional and self-regulatory processes. Higher self-development motivation and skill resulted in greater reported self-development activities. Surprisingly, organizational support reduced the magnitude of this relationship. This study concludes with implications for future research on and practice of leader self-development activities.
Vision in Alzheimer's Disease

In order to assess vision in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related disorders, gerontologists must use tests that make minimal cognitive demands on the subject. Using such tests, we have found a pattern of deficits in color discrimination, stereoacuity, contrast sensitivity, and backward masking that differs from that seen in healthy elderly individuals. Impaired vision predicts deficient performance of subjects with AD on numerous tests of cognition, underscoring the importance of understanding visual changes in this population.
PR and conflict: A theoretical review and case study of the 2001 University of Hawaii faculty strike

In April 2001, deadlocked labour negotiations brought all public education in Hawaii to a standstill. This paper reviews theoretical models of public relations and criticism of these models in terms of conflict theory. A case study of the University of Hawaii (UH) faculty strike, including findings from in‐depth interviews with PR professionals, chief negotiators and the press is presented. Although PR models fit well in discussing relationships between the parties and their constituents, findings suggest that PR techniques often were proscribed by the circumstances of collective bargaining, and public relations, as it has been conceptualised in both theory and layman’s terms, was used as an alternative to negotiations between opposing parties rather than a means to resolving the conflict.
Anti‐P Antibodies and Neuropsychiatric Lupus Erythematosus

A high proportion of patients with SLE develop neuropsychiatric lupus during the course of their disease. The expression of disease varies significantly in terms of clinical manifestations, onset, and severity, so that this form of lupus remains a major diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Because affected tissue cannot be sampled and animal models are not readily available, scientific investigation is considerably hampered. Approximately 15% of lupus patients have anti-P antibodies. These autoantibodies are highly specific for SLE. Most series show a highly significant association between anti-P and lupus psychosis, and this result is now confirmed in a series of 336 SLE patients. The mechanism explaining this association is uncertain and may simply reflect an immune response to damaged tissue. However, the possibility that the antibodies are pathogenic by directly binding to cell-surface receptors on neuronal cells or that they penetrate cells and inhibit protein synthesis within the cell requires further investigation. Whether T cells are involved in the pathogenesis of CNS disease is an important question that has received little attention. As in the CNS of patients with multiple sclerosis and patients with other autoimmune diseases, excess production of cytokines may contribute significantly to organ inflammation. We report associations between anti-P autoantibodies and certain MHC class II alleles, particularly HLA-DQB1*0602. These findings support a role for T cells in anti-P autoantibody production and encourage further studies of the role of autoantigen-specific T and B cells in injury to the central nervous system.
Detection of deep venous thrombosis: Prospective comparison of MR imaging and sonography

Seventy-five patients (41 women and 34 men, 20-85 years old) with clinically suspected deep venous thrombosis (DVT) were examined with MR imaging and sonography. In 26 patients, the final diagnosis was acute femoropopliteal DVT. The sensitivity of MR imaging for detecting this disease was 100% with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 87-100%; the specificity was 100% with a CI of 92-100%; and the accuracy was 96% with a CI of 89-99%. The correspond-ing sensitivity of sonography was 77% with a CI of 53-92%; the specificity was 98% with a CI of 89-100%; and the accuracy was 83% with a CI of 72-90%. In four of the 75 patients, MR images revealed thrombus of the pelvis (n = 1) or calf (n = 3) without femoropopliteal involvement. The estimated prevalence of isolated calf and/or pelvic DVT was 5% with a CI of 1-13%. MR imaging is significantly more sensitive (P = .02) and accurate (P < .01) than sonography in the detection of lower extremity DVT, but there was no difference in the specificity of MR imaging and that of sonography (P = .31).
Primer for New Authors: On the Fundamentals of Publishing in Marketing Journals

(2010). Primer for New Authors: On the Fundamentals of Publishing in Marketing Journals. Journal of Marketing Theory and Practice: Vol. 18, No. 1, pp. 91-100.
Electronic and chemical properties of Pd in bimetallic systems: interaction of Pd with Rh(111)

Abstract The nature of the metal-metal interactions in a series of Pd Rh (111) surfaces has been examined using thermal desorption mass spectroscopy, core- and valence-level photoemission, CO chemisorption, and ab initio self-consistent field calculations. A monolayer of Pd supported on Rh(111) exhibits a Pd 3 d 5 2 binding energy ∼0.2 eV higher than that of the surface atoms of Pd(100), and desorbs at ∼1390 K. The desorption temperature of CO from this Pd Rh (111) system is 50–70 K lower than those seen on Pd(111) and Rh(111), indicating a weakening of 3–5 kcal mol−1 in the strength of the CO adsorption bond. These results are compared with data reported in the literature for bimetallic surfaces that contain Pd and Rh, and general trends are explained in terms of a simple model.
The value of parental report for diagnosis and management of dehydration in the emergency department.

Abstract Study objectives: We define the predictive value of parents' computer-based report for history and physical signs of dehydration for a primary outcome of percentage of dehydration (fluid deficit) and 2 secondary outcomes: clinically important acidosis and hospital admission. We also sought to compare the reports of physical signs related to dehydration made by parents and nurses. Methods: We performed a prospective observational trial in an urban pediatric emergency department. A convenience sample of parents completed a computer-based interview covering historical details and physical signs (ill appearance, sunken fontanelle, sunken eyes, decreased tears, dry mouth, cool extremities, and weak cry) related to dehydration. Nurses independently completed an assessment of physical signs for enrolled children. The primary outcome was the degree of dehydration (fluid deficit), which was defined as the percentage difference between initial ED weight and stable final weight after the illness. Secondary outcomes included clinically important acidosis (defined as a serum CO 2 value of ≤15 mEq/L) and hospital admission. Results: One hundred thirty-two parent-child dyads comprised the final sample. Parent-reported data manifested higher sensitivity (range 73% to 100%) than specificity (range 0% to 49%) for the prediction of dehydration of 5% or greater. Likelihood ratios (LRs) near zero ( Conclusion: Parents' report of history and observations for children captured through computer-based interview demonstrates predictive value for relevant outcomes in dehydration. [ Ann Emerg Med. 2003;41:196-205.]
Natural rubber pharmaceutical vial closures release latex allergens that produce skin reactions

Abstract Background: The release of allergenic proteins from natural rubber vial closures (stoppers) into aqueous pharmaceuticals may induce allergic reactions in individuals with latex allergy (LA) receiving medications from such vials. Objective: The goal of this study was to determine whether solutions stored in vials containing natural rubber closures release allergenic proteins detectable by skin testing of subjects with LA. Methods: Five pharmaceutical vial closures (2 natural rubber and 3 synthetic) were coded, inserted onto vials containing phenol-saline-human serum albumin, and stored in an inverted position before use. Twelve volunteers with and 11 volunteers without LA underwent skin testing with solutions from each of the 5 vials, either those not punctured (0P) or those punctured 40 times with a 21-gauge needle 12 to 24 hours before testing (40P). Results: All intradermal skin test responses in the group without LA were negative. Two and 5 of the 12 subjects with LA had positive intradermal skin reactions to 0P and 40P solutions, respectively, from vials containing rubber closures. Two subjects with LA had inexplicable, positive, nonreproducible intradermal skin test reactions to solutions from vials containing bromobutyl but not vials with isoprene synthetic closures. In vitro inhibition analysis detected 6 to 7 AU/g latex allergen in extracts of cut natural rubber containing closures but not in extracts of synthetic closures. Conclusion: Natural rubber vial closures released allergenic latex proteins into the tested solutions in direct contact during storage in sufficient quantities to elicit positive intradermal skin reactions in some individuals with LA. These data support a recommendation to eliminate natural rubber from closures of pharmaceutical vials. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 2001;107:958-62.)
Ethyl anion preferred conformation

Ab initio architecture and torsional barrier for ethyl anion, C2H are analyzed using natural bond orbital methodology. The B3LYP/6-311++G(3df,2p) 2-kcal/mol torsional barrier between the preferred staggered and higher-energy eclipsed conformer is calculated to be one-third lower than for ethane. This decrease is largely attributed to reduced hyperconjugative stabilization of the equilibrium anion conformer compared to that for ethane. Proton removal is also predicted to cause opening of the ethane central CCH angle by 7°, attributed to decreased steric repulsion and to increased hyperconjugative stabilization accompanying angle widening in the ion. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
A continuum model for the nonlinear analysis of beam-like lattice structures

Abstract A simple equivalent continuum model has been developed for the geometrically nonlinear analysis of beam-like lattice structures. Two important features of the model are the simplicity of the calculation of the continuum properties and the ability of the continuum to accurately predict the behavior of rigid-joint as well as pin-joint lattices. The equivalence of the continuum and lattice is established by requiring the strain energy of the continuum to equal the strain energy of the lattice for a finite set of assumed deformation modes. It is shown that an additional strain energy term not found in classical Timoshenko beam theory must be included in the continuum strain energy function in order to accurately approximate the behavior of rigid-joint frames. A finite element discretization is applied to the continuum to obtain numerical solutions for the continuum model. By comparison with discrete finite element results for the lattice, the accuracy of the continuum methodology is demonstrated for both static and dynamical problems. For the nonlinear problems studied, the continuum solutions were found to require only a small fraction of the CPU time needed for the discrete finite element solutions.
In Situ Characterization of the Degradation of PLGA Microspheres in Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogels by Optical Coherence Tomography

The polymeric implant material poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) degrades by a process of bulk degradation, which allows it to be used for the controlled release of therapeutic molecules from implants and microspheres. The temporal characterization of PLGA microsphere degradation has been limited by the need to destructively monitor the samples at each time point. In this study, a noninvasive imaging technology, optical coherence tomography (OCT), was utilized to characterize the in situ degradation of PLGA microspheres suspended within photo-crosslinked hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels. Microspheres with differing degradation rates were loaded with bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a marker protein, and temporal release of protein was correlated with morphological changes observed during 3-D OCT imaging. As proof-of-principle, a microsphere-loaded hydrogel scaffold was implanted in a modified rat calvarial critical size defect model and imaged using OCT. This animal model presents the opportunity to monitor microsphere degradation over time in living animals.
Bullous pemphigoid: from the bedside to the research laboratory.

The official birth of bullous pemphigoid (BP) took place in February 1953 when Lever published his original article on pemphigus.1 The concept of BP was, however, introduced earlier by Talbott and Lever who distinguished an acute and a chronic form for pemphigus.2 Acute pemphigus was clinically distinguished from chronic pemphigus by the early development of lesions in the mouth, and a rapid fulminating course. Chronic pemphigus, on the other hand, was found to progress slowly and may have prolonged asymptomatic periods, if mouth lesions develop, they appear late. In the same time, Civatte described the presence of acantholysis as a characteristic feature of pemphigus.3 Careful observation of pemphigus skin samples by light microscopy lead Lever to conclude that acantholysis is only present in cases with clinical diagnosis of “pemphigus vulgaris acutus” and never in the “chronicus form.” Furthermore, he noted presence of intraepidermal bullae in acute form and subepidermal bullae in the chronic form. What had been calling pemphigus vulgaris chronicus was therefore not pemphigus on histological grounds and not dermatitis herpetiformis on the clinical grounds so he called it BP. BP is a now defined as a chronic sub-epidermal blistering disease of unknown origin in which IgG autoantibodies are found against the normal components of hemidesmosomes named as BP230 and BP180.4–7 BP is frequently seen in the elderly with most cases occurring after age 60, although cases have been reported in children. HLA class II DQB1*0301 allele has been recently shown to be prevalent in BP.8 Clinical Manifestations
A 4 Mb Low-temperature DRAM

The authors present the characterization of the first dynamic RAM (DRAM) fabricated in a technology specifically optimized for cryogenic operation. With the power supply adjusted to assure hot-electron reliability, the 25-ns 4-Mb low-temperature (LT) chips operated 3 times faster than conventional chips. The LT-optimized chips functioned properly with cycle times as fast as 45 ns, and with a toggle-mode data rate of 667 Mb/s. Wide operating margins and a very large process window for data retention were demonstrated. At a temperature of 85 K the storage retention time of the trench-capacitor memory cells exceeded 8 h. This study shows that the performance leverage offered by low temperature applies equally well to DRAM and to logic. There is no limitation inherent to memory. >
Deficiency of PXR decreases atherosclerosis in apoE-deficient mice

The pregnane X receptor (PXR, also known as SXR) is a nuclear hormone receptor activated by xenobiotics as well as diverse sterols and their metabolites. PXR functions as a xenobiotic sensor to coordinately regulate xenobiotic metabolism via transcriptional regulation of xenobiotic-detoxifying enzymes and transporters. Recent evidence indicates that PXR may also play an important role in lipid homeostasis and atherosclerosis. To define the role of PXR in atherosclerosis, we generated PXR and apoE double knockout (PXR(-/-)apoE(-/-)) mice. Here we show that deficiency of PXR did not alter plasma triglyceride and cholesterol levels in apoE(-/-) mice. However, PXR(-/-)apoE(-/-) mice had significantly decreased atherosclerotic cross-sectional lesion area in both the aortic root and brachiocephalic artery by 40% (P < 0.01) and 60% (P < 0.001), respectively. Interestingly, deficiency of PXR reduced the expression levels of CD36, lipid accumulation, and CD36-mediated oxidized LDL uptake in peritoneal macrophages of PXR(-/-)apoE(-/-) mice. Furthermore, immunofluorescence staining showed that PXR and CD36 were expressed in the atherosclerotic lesions of apoE(-/-) mice, and the expression levels of PXR and CD36 were diminished in the lesions of PXR(-/-)apoE(-/-) mice. Our findings indicate that deficiency of PXR attenuates atherosclerosis development, which may result from decreased CD36 expression and reduced lipid uptake in macrophages.
The Dual Sources of Io's Sodium Clouds

Abstract Io's sodium clouds result mostly from a combination of two atmospheric escape processes at Io. Neutralization of Na + and/or NaX + pickup ions produces the “stream” and the “jet” and results in a rectangular-shaped sodium nebula around Jupiter. Atmospheric sputtering of Na by plasma torus ions produces the “banana cloud” near Io and a diamond-shaped sodium nebula. Charge exchange of thermal Na + with Na in Io's atmosphere does not appear to be a major atmospheric ejection process. The total ejection rate of sodium from Io varied from 3×10 26 to 25×10 26 atoms/s over seven years of observations. Our results provide further evidence that Io's atmospheric escape is driven from collisionally thick regions of the atmosphere rather than from the exosphere.
Statin use and risk of community acquired pneumonia in older people: population based case-control study

Objective To test the hypothesis that hydroxymethyl glutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) may decrease the risk of community acquired pneumonia. Design Population based case-control study. Setting Group Health, a large integrated healthcare delivery system. Population Immunocompetent, community dwelling Group Health members aged 65 to 94; two matched controls for each case with pneumonia. Information on comorbid illnesses and functional and cognitive status, potential confounders of the association between statin use and risk of pneumonia, came from medical record review and computerised pharmacy data. Main outcome measure Adjusted estimates of risk of pneumonia in relation to current statin use. Results 1125 validated cases of pneumonia and 2235 matched controls were identified. Compared with controls, cases were more likely to have chronic lung and heart disease, especially severe disease, and functional or cognitive impairment. Current statin use was present in 16.1% (181/1125) of cases and 14.6% (327/2235) of controls (adjusted odds ratio 1.26, 95% confidence interval 1.01 to 1.56). Among cases admitted to hospital and matched controls, current statin use was present in 17.2% (68/395) of cases and 14.2% (112/788) of controls (adjusted odds ratio 1.61, 1.08 to 2.39, compared with non-use). In people in whom statins were indicated for secondary prevention, the adjusted odds ratio for risk of pneumonia in relation to current statin use was 1.25 (0.94 to 1.67); in those with no such indication, it was 0.81 (0.46 to 1.42). Conclusions Statin use was not associated with decreased risk of pneumonia among immunocompetent, community dwelling older people. Findings of previous studies may reflect “healthy user” bias.
ENTROPY OF MAPS WITH HORIZONTAL GAPS

We study the behavior of topological entropy in one-parameter families of interval maps obtained from a continuous map f by truncating it at the level depending on the parameter. When f is piecewise monotone, the entropy function has the devil's staircase structure.