cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TH‐C‐141‐08: A Feasibility Study of the Utility of Dynamic Contrast‐Enhanced MRI for Treatment Planning and Monitoring Treatment Response in Lung Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy

Purpose: To investigate the feasibility of pulmonary DCE‐MRI in 1) identifying regions of functional lung for lung SBRT treatment planning; 2) assessing tumor response during and after SBRT; and 3) characterizing regions of radiation‐induced lung injury after SBRT. Methods: In this IRB‐approved feasibility study, participants being treated with 3–5 fractions of 12–18 Gy undergo pulmonary DCE‐MRI at baseline, during treatment (1–2 days after first fraction) and post‐treatment (1–2 weeks and then 3–4 months). DCE‐MRI is performed using a clinical 3D DCE‐MRI protocol, that includes T2‐weighted HASTE, T1‐weighted VIBE, and 3D turbo FLASH sequences. The parameters for the 3D turbo FLASH were: TR/TE=2.2/0.84msec, FOV=400mm, 256×208, slice thickness 3.6 mm, 1 excitation, BW=930kHz, FA=10, coronal orientation, temporal resolution=4sec, 42 frames, Gd‐DTPA iv. 0.1 mmol/kg. Time‐intensity curves are derived after motion‐correction, and fit to a two‐compartment plasma/extracellular extravascular space (EES) model to derive pharmacokinetic parameters for the tumor and surrounding treated lung, including kep, the characteristic rate of transfer of contrast tracer between plasma and the EES. The study aims to enroll 20 patients, with a preliminary assessment of feasibility after 7 patients. Results: The first patient was enrolled, and all the 4 MRI studies were successfully completed within the timeframe defined by the protocol, without complications. Images of the lung and tumor were obtained with satisfactory quality for pharmacokinetic analysis. Pharmacokinetic parameter maps based on DCE‐MRI were generated and registered to the corresponding planning 4DCT for each scan. In this first patient, kep in a tumor ROI was 1.09 before treatment, 0.20 after 2 fractions of 18 Gy, and 0.76 two weeks after the final fraction. Conclusion: The feasibility of acquiring and incorporating information from DCE‐MRI into lung stereotactic body radiation therapy has been demonstrated on an initial patient. Quantitative analysis will be performed after accrual of more participants. Kaye Scholar Grant and Siemens Research Partnership Grant
Invasive cutaneous melanoma in elderly patients.

• Clinical and pathologic variables were compared between "older" (≥70 years) and "younger" (30 to 39 years) patients with primary invasive cutaneous melanoma. Older patients had more nodular melanomas and acral lentiginous melanomas (58%); superficial spreading melanomas predominated in younger patients (74%). Mean tumor thickness was greater in the older patients (3.95 vs 2.02 mm). Invasive levels 2 and 3 occurred more often in younger patients (41.1% vs 13%); level 5 occurred more often in older patients (30.4% vs 5.3%). Microscopic ulceration occurred more often in older (46.4%) than in younger patients (19.4%). Older patients classified as clinical stage I at presentation or with primary lesions 1.50- to 3.00-mm thick had poorer survival. Younger women survived longer than younger men; this was not true of older patients. The elderly patients with cutaneous melanoma were more likely to have poor prognostic features and thus more likely to die from melanoma than the younger patients. ( Arch Dermatol. 1991;127:1188-1193)
Constructible Authentic Representations: Designing Video Games that Enable Players to Utilize Knowledge Developed In-Game to Reason About Science

While video games have become a source of excitement for educational designers, creating informal game experiences that players can draw on when thinking and reasoning in non-game contexts has proved challenging. In this paper we present a design principle for creating educational video games that enables players to draw on knowledge resources gained in-game to reason about non-game phenomena. Games that incorporate this design principle, which we call constructible authentic representations, engage players in the construction of artifacts that are visually and epistemologically aligned to tools and representations utilized in the target domain. We illustrate this principle with a study of six children (ages 7–13) playing a racing video game of our own design. Players that struggled with a formal graphing task before playing the game showed improvement on the same task in post-game interviews creating qualitatively correct velocity versus time graph that incorporated key kinematic features such as moments of constant velocity and varying degrees of acceleration. An analysis of pre- and post-game clinical interviews also revealed that players more fluidly drew on a variety of knowledge resources when reasoning about the game, real world, and formal representations. We hypothesize that designing games to include constructible authentic representations may allow for the creation of educational video games that can survive in the non-school gaming ecosystem.
Characterization of Phytophthora capsici Causing Foliar and Pod Blight of Snap Bean in Michigan

ABSTRACT Green and yellow snap bean plants with water-soaked foliar lesions, stem necrosis, pod blight, and overall plant decline were observed in four commercial fields in three Michigan counties ...
Fermions and type IIB supergravity on squashed Sasaki-Einstein manifolds

We discuss the dimensional reduction of fermionic modes in a recently found class of consistent truncations of D = 11 supergravity compactified on squashed seven-dimensional Sasaki-Einstein manifolds. Such reductions are of interest, for example, in that they have (2 + 1)-dimensional holographic duals, and the fermionic content and their interactions with charged scalars are an important aspect of their applications. We derive the lower-dimensional equations of motion for the fermions and exhibit their couplings to the various bosonic modes present in the truncations under consideration, which most notably include charged scalar and form fields. We demonstrate that our results are consistent with the expected supersymmetric structure of the lower dimensional theory, and apply them to a specific example which is relevant to the study of (2 + 1)-dimensional holographic superconductors.
Self-monitoring support for learning to write

This study examined the role of self-monitoring (SM) support for writing skill improvement in a reciprocal peer review of writing system called scaffolded writing and revision in the disciplines (SWoRD). Based on previous literature on the key role of SM in self-regulated learning, students were provided with opportunities to self-monitor their writing through self-evaluations and peer evaluations on both their own and peer writing. With 601 graduate and undergraduate students from 16 courses in three US universities, we found that the students who developed successful SM dramatically improved their writing compared with those who did not. Finally, we discuss future research in SM of writing.
DYNAMICS OF TRUSSES: NUMERICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL RESULTS

Complicated wave convesion phenomena in a flexible truss with pinned joints and diagonals were detected in very narrow frequency bands close to the natural frequencies for bending vibrations of individual beam members. Replacement of pinned with clamped joints and removal of the diagonals simplified greatly the topological structure of the exponential decay and phase curves in the frequency domain, in spite of the increase in the number of families of characteristic waves from four to six
Differential compression and optimal caching methods for content-based image search systems

Compression and caching are two important issues for a large on-line image server. In this paper, we propose a new approach to compression by exploring similarity in large image archives. An adaptive vector quantization approach using content categorizations, including both the semantic level and the feature level, is developed to provide a differential compression scheme. We show that this scheme is able to support flexible and optimal caching strategies. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed technique can improve the compression rate by about 20 percent compared to JPEG compression, and can improve the retrieval response by 5 percent to 20 percent under different typical access scenarios.
Having a Mentally Ill Sibling: Implications for Attachment With Parental Figures

Participants (n = 33) with a sibling diagnosed with a mental disorder completed the Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment (IPPA). Analysis of perceived quality of attachment scores after the diagnosis of their siblings showed statistically significant lower attachment scores with maternal figures compared with scores before the diagnosis. There was no statistically significant change in perceived quality of attachment scores with paternal figures. Possible explanations of these findings are explored including the role mothers play in caring for their mentally ill children and its impact on the well siblings. Implication for future research and therapy are discussed.
Mercurated amides of alpha‐amino acids

Abstract Naturally‐occurring α‐amino acids have been employed in the preparation of a series of mercurated allyl amides as possible diuretics with low toxic and irritant properties. Relatively stable, recrystallizable and water‐soluble mercurials were isolated which showed diuretic activity either by intravenous or oral administration.
Estimating Low Frequency Seismic Impedance From CSEM Resistivity Using Cross-property Rock Physics Relations

Estimating the low frequency seismic impedance trend is critical for reservoir characterization based on seismic inversions. Conventional band-limited seismic reflection data has an information gap in the ~2-10 Hz band, and does not contain information about the background impedance trend. On the other hand, controlled source electromagnetic (CSEM) data are typically low resolution, and contain information in this gap, about the earth’s resistivity structure. Cross-property rock physics relations between elastic and electrical properties can be used to extract information from the CSEM data to provide constraints on the low frequency seismic impedance trend. The simple approach is tested out with well log data, and then applied to a resistivity section inverted from CSEM data. Results show that appropriate cross-property relations can capture the background low frequency impedance trend and provide useful constraints on prior models for inversion.
Hydraulic differentiation of heavy minerals, offshore Alabama and Mississippi: Summary

Heavy minerals in the coastal zone of Alabama and Mississippi have been observed for many years; most published work has been either on a broad regional basis (Goldstein, 1942; Hsu, 1960; Shepard, 1960; van Andel and Poole, 1960) or concentrated on the barrier islands (Foxworth and others, 1962; Hahn, 1962; Harding, 1960). The Alabama-Mississippi region lies in the Eastern Gulf Province (Goldstein, 1942), which is characterized, by the metamorphic heavy minerals kyanite, staurolite, tourmaline, and epidote. Goldstein, from 20 samples, suggested an average heavy mineral content of about 0.4 weight percent of the sediment throughout the Eastern Gulf Province. There are few data pertaining to the sub-sea-level mineral distribution in the present area of investigation. Studies by Goldstein (1942), Hsu (1960), and Upshaw and others (1966) have included about a dozen samples from the area. More extensive studies of heavy mineral distributions, transportation, and concentration processes have been undertaken by Tanner and others (1961) and Stapor (1973) for the Apalachicola Bay area of Florida. Stow and others (1976) published preliminary observations on the heavy mineral resource potential for offshore Alabama and Mississippi, but they did not interpret the distribution data.
Comparing Model Update Error Residuals and Effects on Model Predictive Accuracy

The effect of error residual choice on the predictive capability of an updated structural model is examined. First, analytical expressions are developed that relate errors in dynamically measured static flexibility matrices, stiffness matrices, and modal matrices. The analysis shows that flexibility, stiffness, and modal error residuals correspond to unique weightings on the error in the measured modal data. Next, the flexibility weighting indicator and the stiffness weighting indicator are defined to provide a simple means of ranking individual modes in terms of their potential contribution to errors in a measured static flexibility or stiffness matrix. Finally, expressions are developed for bounding model prediction errors when static flexibility, stiffness, or modal error residuals are used. The results show that the amount of uncertainty in predicted static displacements, static loads, and mode shapes and frequencies is directly related to the choice of error residual and is different in each case. These results are also illustrated using numerical simulations for a modified version of Kabe's problem, which includes model form errors.
Hadronic superalgebra from skyrmion operators

Abstract We give a fermionic realization of the SU(2) × SU(2) algebra of the Skyrme model. We imbed the SU(2) × SU(2) algebra into U(4) by introducing new generators which are simple modifications of the SU(2) × SU(2) generators. Employing fermionic quantization, we further extend the algebra to a superalgebra. A possible hadronic supersymmetry in the Skyrme model is also discussed.
Two center light cone calculation of pair production induced by ultrarelativistic heavy ions

An exact solution of the two center time-dependent Dirac equation for pair production induced by ultrarelativistic heavy ion collisions is presented. Cross sections to specific final states approach those of perturbation theory. Multiplicity rates are reduced from perturbation theory.
Codes and matrices in studies on designs

Abstract This paper investigates methods based on codes and matrices for determining the existence or nonexistence of designs. The methods are general but are applied to the particular case of a design (22, 33, 12, 8, 4). As such it is a sequel to a paper of Hall, Jr., Roth, van Rees and Vanstone. An early paper by Hamada and Kobayashi made the first steps in this direction.
The Anthropological Unconscious

En analogie avec la notion d'inconscient optique - phenomene apparu, selon Walter Benjamin, avec l'appareil photographique qui a produit une nouvelle maniere de voir le monde -, l'A. developpe la notion d'inconscient anthropologique, phenomene construit historiquement : comme la photographie l'ethnographie etait fondee sur une infatuation narcissique - les cultures non-occidentales etant largement considerees comme representant les premiers stages du developpement humain - et l'ethnographie etait consideree comme capable de saisir ce moment du passe
Pure motor hemiplegia with occlusion of the extracranial carotid artery.

Abstract Two patients with the syndrome of pure motor hemiplegia are presented in whom occlusion of the carotid artery in the neck was demonstrated angiographically. A relationship between extracranial vascular disease and pure motor hemiplegia is suggested and potential implications in the management and treatment of such patients are discussed.
TU-E-BRB-08: Dosimetric Impact of Metal Artifact Reduction in Treatment Planning: Phantom and Clinical Studies

Purpose: To systematically evaluate, in phantom and patient, dosimetric differences obtained by applying metal‐artifact reduction (MAR) algorithm in CT for treatment planning algorithms. Method and Materials: Helical CTs were acquired for six phantom configurations and three patient cases (bilateral hip prostheses, femur, humerus rods). MAR was applied to reconstructed images using Matlab (v7.8) integrated into Extended Brilliance Workspace research platform (Philips Healthcare, Cleveland, OH). Two Cerrobend rods were fabricated for CIRS thorax phantom to investigate interfaces and simulated clinical configurations including bilateral hip prostheses. Dose was calculated on original and MAR‐corrected CTs using Anisotropic Analytic Algorithm (AAA), Pencil Beam Convolution (PBC) in Eclipse, Pencil Beam Convolution (PBC‐BL) and Monte Carlo(MC) algorithms in Brainlab, with and without heterogeneity correction. Dose matrices were evaluated. Statistics from the same regions of interest evaluated sensitivity and accuracy of algorithms between original and MAR‐corrected CTs. Results: In phantom, with heterogeneity correction off, no appreciable dose differences were observed between original and MAR‐corrected CTs. ∼4.0% mean dose difference was observed between original and MAR‐corrected scans for single Cerrobend rod interfaced with lung‐mimicking tissue when calculated with MC. For double Cerrobend configuration, lung‐metal‐bone interfaces yielded 3.0% and 5.0% difference in mean dose for AAA and MC, respectively. For the patient data, dose differences between the original and MAR‐corrected CT scans could be substantial. With the exception of PBC in Eclipse, up to 8 +/− 24% mean dose differences were observed for the 3D conformal plans. The most substantial dosimetric changes were revealed for the MAR‐ corrected bilateral hip prostheses scan, with 12 +/− 29% mean dose differences observed for both PBC and MC implemented in Brainlab. Conclusion: Dosimetric differences revealed between original and MAR corrected CT scans can be substantial, and the results can be used to facilitate implementation of MAR corrected images in treatment planning. Henry Ford Health Systems holds a research agreement with Philips Medical Systems.
On the energy consumption and performance of systems software

Models of energy consumption and performance are necessary to understand and identify system behavior, prior to designing advanced controls that can balance out performance and energy use. This paper considers the energy consumption and performance of servers running a relatively simple file-compression workload. We found that standard techniques for system identification do not produce acceptable models of energy consumption and performance, due to the intricate interplay between the discrete nature of software and the continuous nature of energy and performance. This motivated us to perform a detailed empirical study of the energy consumption and performance of this system with varying compression algorithms and compression levels, file types, persistent storage media, CPU DVFS levels, and disk I/O schedulers. Our results identify and illustrate factors that complicate the system's energy consumption and performance, including nonlinearity, instability, and multi-dimensionality. Our results provide a basis for future work on modeling energy consumption and performance to support principled design of controllable energy-aware systems.
Electroweak tri-boson couplings at LEP II and beyond

Possible non-standard model couplings of electroweak vector bosons are studied inW pair production ine+e− collisions. Helicity amplitudes are calculated in a factorized formalism; the choice of helicity basis suggested by this formalism is shown to increase sensitivity of angular correlations to anomalous couplings. In the course of this analysis, the chi-squared test for finite data samples is more carefully formulated. BothCP-conserving andCP-violating couplings are considered.
Formulating Spatially Varying Performance in the Statistical Fusion Framework

To date, label fusion methods have primarily relied either on global [e.g., simultaneous truth and performance level estimation (STAPLE), globally weighted vote] or voxelwise (e.g., locally weighted vote) performance models. Optimality of the statistical fusion framework hinges upon the validity of the stochastic model of how a rater errs (i.e., the labeling process model). Hitherto, approaches have tended to focus on the extremes of potential models. Herein, we propose an extension to the STAPLE approach to seamlessly account for spatially varying performance by extending the performance level parameters to account for a smooth, voxelwise performance level field that is unique to each rater. This approach, Spatial STAPLE, provides significant improvements over state-of-the-art label fusion algorithms in both simulated and empirical data sets.
Traumatic Impact of Familial Arrest on Young Children

Fifty-two percent of individuals incarcerated in state prisons and 63% of individuals in federal prisons are parents of minor children and many of them (22% of the children of state inmates and 16% of the children of federal inmates) are under the age of 5 years
All-optical signal processing for implementing network switching functions

In general, optical correlators can perform very fast signal processing. A header correlator is implemented as a hard-wired series of optical delay lines for which each header bit experiences a different optical delay. If a particular header bit has a corresponding "1" in the look-up table, then the delay will put that header bit inside an autocorrelation time window. If a header bit has a corresponding "0" in the look-up table, then the delay will put that header bit outside an autocorrelation time window. However, a key limitation is that the optical technology does not scale well, thereby making it practical for recognizing only a limited number of header bits. This may not be a significant drawback if only a few number of bits must be recognized in order to route packets to only a small number of ports.
Developmental Changes in Olfactory Behavior and Limbic Circuitry

The olfactory system of infant rats is not an immature version of the adult system but is organized to ensure infants form the attachment to the caregiver necessary for survival. We study a sensitive period during the first nine days of life when rat pups have unique learning abilities that ensure pups quickly and reliably learn a preference for the maternal odor that underlies pup orientation to the mother and nursing. There are two unique aspects of this early learning. First, neonatal rat pups have an increased ability to acquire odor preferences. It produces corresponding metabolic and anatomical changes in the olfactory bulb that is supported by norepinephrine from the hyperfunctioning neonatal locus coeruleus (Sullivan, 2003; Moriceau and Sullivan, 2004a). The neonatal learned odor preference and the associated olfactory bulb changes are maintained into adulthood. Secondly, which is the focus of this paper, neonatal pups have a decreased ability to acquire learned odor aversions (Sullivan et al., 1986, 2000; Camp and Rudy, 1988), presumably due to lack of amygdala participation in aversive conditioning (assessed by 2-DG; Sullivan et al., 2000). Specifically, during the sensitive period, a novel odor paired with painful 0.5mA shock produces a subsequent odor preference in pups. [Neonatal ( 1.2mA; Spear and Rudy, 1991).] It should be noted that pups of this age feel pain (Haroutunian and Campbell, 1979; Barr, 1995) and do not show a preference for the shock, only the odor. We also find that the amygdala, a brain area necessary for adult odor–shock fear conditioning (Fanselow and Gale, 2003; Maren, 2003), does not participate in this shock-induced odor preference (Sullivan et al., 2000). We suggest that the failure of the amygdala to participate in the neonatal sensitive period odor shock conditioning results in the odor preference. On postnatal day (PN) 10, when walking emerges (Bolles and Woods, 1964), naive pups easily learn to avoid odors paired with shock and the amygdala participates in this conditioning (Sullivan et al., 2000). We suggest that the functional emergence of the amygdala in odor shock conditioning at PN10 permits pups to learn a shock-induced odor aversion using a fear conditioning paradigm. Thus, during the sensitive period the neonate appears to use a unique neural circuitry for learning. Considering structures that support adult learning are probably not functional in the neonate (amygdala, hippocampus, cerebellum, frontal cortex) and connections between these areas are still maturing, it is not surprising that neonatal pups are using a different circuit (Verwer et al., 1996; Nair and Gonzalez-Lima, 1999; Stanton, 2000; reviewed in Sullivan, 2003).
Cyclic antidepressants and the risk of sudden cardiac death.

Background Tricyclic and other related cyclic antidepressants (TCAs), used frequently for the treatment of depression and several other indications, have cardiovascular effects that may increase the risk of sudden cardiac death. We thus sought to quantify the risk of sudden cardiac death among TCA users, according to dose, as well as among users of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study in Tennessee Medicaid, from Jan 1, 1988, through Dec 31, 1993, which included large numbers of antidepressant users and computer files describing medication use and comorbidity. The cohort included 1,282,091 person-years of follow-up for persons aged 15 to 84 years who were not in a nursing home and were free of life-threatening noncardiac illness. This included 58,956 person-years for current use of TCAs alone, 6291 person-years for SSRIs only, and 96,220 person-years for former use. Results The cohort included 1487 confirmed sudden cardiac deaths occurring in the community. When compared with nonusers of antidepressants, current users of TCAs had a dose-related increase in the risk of sudden cardiac death. Rate ratios increased from 0.97 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.72–1.29) for doses lower than 100 mg (amitriptyline or its equivalent) to 2.53 (95% CI, 1.04–6.12) for doses of 300 mg or more (P = .03, test for dose-response). The rate ratio for SSRIs was 0.95 (95% CI, 0.42–2.15). There was no evidence that TCA doses lower than 100 mg increased the risk of sudden cardiac death in subgroups defined by pre-existing cardiovascular disease, female sex, age 65 years or older, or use of amitriptyline. Conclusions Our data suggest that SSRI antidepressants and TCAs in doses of less than 100 mg (amitriptyline equivalents) did not increase the risk of sudden cardiac death. However, higher doses of TCAs were associated with increased relative risk, which suggests that such doses should be used cautiously, particularly in patients with an elevated baseline risk of sudden death. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2004) 75, 234–241; doi: 10.1016/j.clpt.2003.09.019
Automated two-dimensional-three-dimensional registration using intensity gradients for three-dimensional reconstruction

We develop a robust framework for the registration of light detection and ranging (LiDAR) images with 2-D visual images using a method based on intensity gradients. Our proposed algorithm consists of two steps. In the first step, we extract lines from the digital surface model (DSM) given by the LiDAR image, then we use intensity gradients to register the extracted lines from the LiDAR image onto the visual image to roughly estimate the extrinsic parameters of the calibrated camera. In our approach, we overcome some of the limitations of 3-D reconstruction methods based on the matching of features between the two images. Our algorithm achieves an accuracy for the camera pose recovery of about 98% for the synthetic images tested, and an accuracy of about 95% for the real-world images we tested, which were from the downtown New Orleans area.
On Shaky Ground.

I ’M WORRIED about my father,” Kim says, holding back tears.With this statement, our conversation, which began shortly after midnight, has taken a significant turn.We are on a student retreat. I’m an advisor, and Kim is one of my students. I find myself sitting, coffee in hand, on the front porch of a cabin in the woods. Even though it is September, the mountains of western North Carolina at night are chilly. I look at Kim sympathetically. Based on the level of emotion in Kim’s voice and the look in her eyes, I prepare myself to hear a truly sad story. I imagine what will come next: details about a terminal disease, an abuse of some kind, or a long-standing grudge. So I am stunned when Kim explains,“I believe that my father is going to hell.” To this student in this moment, this fear was real and likely a worse fate than anything I’d been imagining.As the conversation continued, she shared with me her faith, her major beliefs, the conditions for eternal salvation of one’s soul, and her family’s religious history. Kim’s idea of hell mirrors that of many citizens in the southeastern United States. In her worldview, people who have not satisfied one or more criteria of her religion will be cast into a torturous pit for eternity once they no longer live on earth. One such person was her father. Shocked, I realized that another such person was me. As Kim was describing her faith group’s criteria for eternal salvation and for eternal damnation, I found that her faith and mine had some distinct similarities and some stark differences. It was in one of these divergences that the conversation was to take root.
Crystal structure of the human PRMT5:MEP50 complex

Protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs) play important roles in several cellular processes, including signaling, gene regulation, and transport of proteins and nucleic acids, to impact growth, differentiation, proliferation, and development. PRMT5 symmetrically di-methylates the two-terminal ω-guanidino nitrogens of arginine residues on substrate proteins. PRMT5 acts as part of a multimeric complex in concert with a variety of partner proteins that regulate its function and specificity. A core component of these complexes is the WD40 protein MEP50/WDR77/p44, which mediates interactions with binding partners and substrates. We have determined the crystal structure of human PRMT5 in complex with MEP50 (methylosome protein 50), bound to an S-adenosylmethionine analog and a peptide substrate derived from histone H4. The structure of the surprising hetero-octameric complex reveals the close interaction between the seven-bladed β-propeller MEP50 and the N-terminal domain of PRMT5, and delineates the structural elements of substrate recognition.
Temporal decline in filling prescriptions for terfenadine closely in time with those for either ketoconazole or erythromycin

Temporal changes in the rates of filling terfenadine prescriptions within 2 days of those for either oral erythromycin or oral ketoconazole were described with use of paid pharmacy claims data from 1988 through 1994 in state Medicaid programs from Michigan and Ohio and in a large health maintenance organization. There were rapid and significant declines in the rates of filling prescriptions for either erythromycin or ketoconazole within 2 days of prescriptions for terfenadine in all three databases that coincided with 1992 publicity about the cardiovascular risk of terfenadine. These findings suggest that the use of terfenadine with contraindicated medications has declined in response to relabeling and publicity concerning the safe use of terfenadine. Further study is necessary to estimate the absolute level of concurrent use of terfenadine with contraindicated medications.
Effects of Noncardiovascular Comorbidities on Antihypertensive Use in Elderly Hypertensives

Although the benefits of antihypertensive drugs have been clearly established, they remain underused by vulnerable older populations. We examined whether the presence of noncardiovascular comorbidity deters use of antihypertensives in elderly with hypertension. We conducted a retrospective cohort study among 51,517 patients > or =65 years of age in the Pennsylvania Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly (PACE) Program during 1999 and 2000. All were hypertensive and had diagnoses and used treatments during 1999 to qualify for entry into 1 of the following 5 mutually exclusive cohorts: asthma/chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), depression, gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, osteoarthritis, or none of the 4 comorbidities. Proportions using antihypertensives in 2000 were assessed. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent effects on antihypertensive use of the 4 comorbidities of interest, sociodemographic characteristics, other cardiovascular and noncardiovascular comorbidity, and health care utilization variables. After adjustments in multivariable analyses, antihypertensive use was consistently lower in patients with asthma/COPD (odds ratio [OR], 0.43; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.40 to 0.47), depression (OR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.45 to 0.55), GI disorders (OR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.54 to 0.64), and osteoarthritis (OR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.59 to 0.67) relative to those without these conditions. Reduced antihypertensive use was also associated with older age, female gender, white race, more severe other comorbidities, absence of some cardiovascular indications, hospitalizations, nursing home care, physician visits, and use of fewer other medications. Highly prevalent, noncardiovascular conditions appear to deter use of antihypertensives in elderly with hypertension.
Evidence of heavy-ion reactions from intense pulsed warm, dense plasmas

Nuclear reactions in pulsed-power ion-diodes are usually induced by proton- or deuteron-projectiles accelerated to high energy by the voltage across the anode-cathode (A-K) gap. Reactions for which the incident projectile has a larger atomic number (Z > 2) are inhibited by the Coulomb barrier and are not usually detected. This work documents the detection of several heavy-ion nuclear reactions in the operation of a plasma-filled rod-pinch (PFRP) diode fielded on the 2-MV Gamble II generator1 in which the required Q-value is larger than the A-K potential difference. By injecting a cable-gun plasma between an anode-cathode gap, this PFRP diode has been shown to concentrate a 500-kA, 2-MeV, 60-ns electron beam onto the pointed end of a 1-mm diameter tapered tungsten rod, generating a warm-dense tungsten plasma (up to W+12, ∼20 g/cm3, 25 eV, and 2.4 MJ/cm3). To utilize the PFRP diode as a source of highly-charged ions, high-intensity electron beams impinge upon a ∼l-mm diameter Al anode rod charged to high-voltage. After an experimental discharge, anode material debris is collected in a 3-in diameter Al cup (at ground potential) and gamma-ray emissions are measured using a high-purity Ge spectroscopy system over several days. By measuring the gamma-ray energies and half-lives, the production of a variety of radioisotopes were identified, including 38K, 34mCl, 43Sc, 44mSc, 48V, and 52Mn (up to 108 per discharge). Weak evidence for 24Na, 69Ge, and 79As was also observed. Heavy-ion nuclear reactions with Q-values exceeding the accelerating potential of the diode are proposed to explain the presence of several observed radioisotopes, suggesting a novel acceleration mechanism. Although the production of these isotopes in sub-10-MeV accelerators has been observed before2'3, this is the first demonstration of their production using a PFRP diode.
MR appearance of postoperative foreign body granuloma: case report with pathologic confirmation.

The MR findings in two patients with postoperative foreign body granulomas are presented. Such lesions can simulate recurrent tumor on postcontrast T1-weighted images; however, their hypointense signal on T2-weighted images serves to distinguish them from neoplasm
Transaction-friendly condition variables

Recent microprocessors and compilers have added support for transactional memory (TM). While state-of-the-art TM systems allow the replacement of lock-based critical sections with scalable, optimistic transactions, there is not yet an acceptable mechanism for supporting the use of condition variables in transactions. We introduce a new implementation of condition variables, which uses transactions internally, which can be used from within both transactions and lock-based critical sections, and which is compatible with existing C/C++ interfaces for condition synchronization. By moving most of the mechanism for condition synchronization into user-space, our condition variables have low overhead and permit flexible interfaces that can avoid some of the pitfalls of traditional condition variables. Performance evaluation on an unmodified PARSEC benchmark suite shows equivalent performance to lock-basedcode, and our transactional condition variables also make it possible to replace all locks in PARSEC with transactions.
Localizing NADPH Oxidase–Derived ROS

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) function as signaling molecules to mediate various biological responses, including cell migration, growth, and gene expression. ROS are diffusible and short-lived molecules. Thus, localizing the ROS signal at the specific subcellular compartment is essential for activating redox signaling events after receptor activation. NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate) oxidase is one of the major sources of ROS in vasculature; it consists of a catalytic subunit (Nox1, Nox2, Nox3, Nox4, or Nox5), p22phox, p47phox, p67phox, and the small guanosine triphosphatase Rac1. Targeting of NADPH oxidase to focal complexes in lamellipodia and membrane ruffles through the interaction of p47phox with the scaffold proteins TRAF4 and WAVE1 provides a mechanism for achieving localized ROS production, which is required for directed cell migration. ROS are believed to inactivate protein tyrosine phosphatases, which concentrate in specific subcellular compartments, thereby establishing a positive feedback system that activates redox signaling pathways to promote cell movement. Additionally, ROS production may be localized through interactions of NADPH oxidase with signaling platforms associated with lipid rafts and caveolae, as well as with endosomes. There is also evidence that NADPH oxidase is found in the nucleus, indicating its involvement in redox-responsive gene expression. This review focuses on targeting of NADPH oxidase to discrete subcellular compartments as a mechanism of localizing ROS and activation of downstream redox signaling events that mediate various cell functions.
Phosphorylation of parkin by Parkinson disease-linked kinase PINK1 activates parkin E3 ligase function and NF-κB signaling

Mutations in PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) or parkin cause autosomal recessive forms of Parkinson disease (PD), but how these mutations trigger neurodegeneration is poorly understood and the exact functional relationship between PINK1 and parkin remains unclear. Here, we report that PINK1 regulates the E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase function of parkin through direct phosphorylation. We find that phosphorylation of parkin by PINK1 activates parkin E3 ligase function for catalyzing K63-linked polyubiquitination and enhances parkin-mediated ubiquitin signaling through the IkappaB kinase/nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) pathway. Furthermore, the ability of PINK1 to promote parkin phosphorylation and activate parkin-mediated ubiquitin signaling is impaired by PD-linked pathogenic PINK1 mutations. Our findings support a direct link between PINK1-mediated phosphorylation and parkin-mediated ubiquitin signaling and implicate the deregulation of the PINK1/parkin/NF-kappaB neuroprotective signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of PD.
Chapter 5 Empirical Study of the Civil Justice System

Abstract In this essay, we discuss empirical research on the economic effects of the civil justice system. We discuss research on the effects of three substantive bodies of law—contracts, torts, and property—and research on the effects of the litigation process. We begin with a review of studies of aggregate empirical trends and the important issues involving contracts and torts, both positive and normative. We survey some of the more interesting empirical issues, and we conclude with some suggestions for future work. Because studies involving property law are so divergent, there is no simple description of aggregates that adequately characterizes the subject. In its place, we offer an overview of a number of the most important issues of interest. We describe (selectively) the current state of empirical knowledge, and offer some suggestions for future work. The section on legal process builds on the previous substantive sections. With respect each of the steps, from violation to trial to appeal, we review some of the more important empirical contributions.
Design of a minimally invasive low-frequency microtransducer for ultrasonic neuromodulation

Studies with low intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) and other related techniques have recently demonstrated the potential for ultrasound to reversibly modulate neural circuits in a number of different in vivo models. However, accurate acoustic targeting can be complicated by the attenuation and distortion of the acoustic beam during transcranial passage through the cranium. This can potentially complicate basic studies of the effects of targeted ultrasonic neurostimulation. An alternative intervention strategy is to develop ultrasonic neurostimulator probes small enough to be minimally-invasively implanted directly adjacent to target neural structures. Two different configurations of PZT-based low frequency microtransducers were designed, fabricated, and evaluated for such a strategy. Acoustic testing demonstrated evenly collimated acoustic radiation profiles, and a pilot study in a small animal model demonstrated the overall feasibility of this approach.
Physostigmine — Its use and abuse

Physostigmine salicylate, a cholinesterase inhibitor, has been shown to reverse the effects of certain drugs with anticholinergic properties. The paper provides a brief historical account of physostigmine, reviews the cholinergic drugs and their effects and suggests a management protocol based on physiologic criteria. Twenty-six overdose cases, recently treated with physostigmine, are summarized. The controversy regarding the etiology of seizures following physostigmine administration is discussed.
Comparative growth kinetics and virulence of four different isolates of entomopathogenic fungi in the house fly (Musca domestica L.)

Virulence (speed of kill) of a fungal entomopathogen against a particular host insect depends on biological properties of the specific isolate-host combination, together with factors such as fungal dose. How these intrinsic and extrinsic factors affect the actual pattern and extent of fungal growth in vivo is poorly understood. In this study we exposed adult house flies (Musca domestica L.) to surfaces treated with high and low doses of Beauveria bassiana (isolates BbGHA and Bb5344), Metarhizium anisopliae (strain MaF52) and M. anisopliae var. acridum (isolate Ma189) and used quantitative real-time PCR with species-specific primers to examine the relationship between fungal growth kinetics and virulence. At the highest dose, all fungal isolates killed flies significantly faster than controls, with BbGHA, Bb5344 and MaF52 roughly equivalent in virulence (median survival time (±SE) = 5.0 ± 0.10, 5.0 ± 0.08 and 5.0 ± 0.12 days, respectively) and Ma189 killing more slowly (MST = 8.0 ± 0.20 days). At the lower dose, effective virulence was reduced and only flies exposed to isolates BbGHA and Bb5344 died significantly faster than controls (MST = 12 ± 1.36, 15 ± 0.64, 18 ± 0.86 and 21.0 ± 0.0 days for BbGHA, Bb5344, MaF52 and Ma189, respectively). Real-time PCR assays revealed that flies exposed to surfaces treated with the high dose of spores had greater spore pickup than flies exposed to the low dose for each isolate. After pickup, a general pattern emerged for all isolates in which there was a significant reduction of recovered fungal DNA 48 h after exposure followed by a brief recovery phase, a stable period of little net change in fungal sequence counts, and then a dramatic increase in sequence counts of up to three orders of magnitude around the time of host death. However, while the patterns of growth were similar, there were quantitative differences such that higher final sequence counts were recovered in insects infected with the most lethal isolates and with the higher dose. These results suggest that variation in virulence between isolates, species and doses is determined more by quantitative rather than qualitative differences in fungal growth kinetics.
Already on the Shelf Queer Readings of Award-Winning Children’s Literature

This essay explores what it might mean to read children’s literature in elementary school classrooms through a queer lens. The authors argue that because queer theory has a history as a literary th...
Gastric plexiform fibromyxoma tumor in a child – Case report and review of the literature

Plexiform fibromyxoma tumor (PFT) is an exceedingly rare tumor, particularly in children where only four cases have been reported to date. The patient reported herein presented with abdominal pain and vomiting related to gastric outlet obstruction caused by a large, polypoid PFT. We describe the clinical features, diagnostic evaluation, and surgical treatment of this rare tumor in our patient. Further, we review the literature of FPT to bring attention to this rare gastric tumor to the Pediatric Surgeon.
Use of the internet and an online personal health record system by US veterans: comparison of Veterans Affairs mental health service users and other veterans nationally.

Objective The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates one of the largest nationwide healthcare systems and is increasing use of internet technology, including development of an online personal health record system called My Health e Vet. This study examined internet use among veterans in general and particularly use of online health information among VA patients and specifically mental health service users. Methods A nationally representative sample of 7215 veterans from the 2010 National Survey of Veterans was used. Logistic regression was employed to examine background characteristics associated with internet use and My Health e Vet. Results 71% of veterans reported using the internet and about a fifth reported using My Health e Vet. Veterans who were younger, more educated, white, married, and had higher incomes were more likely to use the internet. There was no association between background characteristics and use of My Health e Vet. Mental health service users were no less likely to use the internet or My Health e Vet than other veterans. Discussion Most veterans are willing to access VA information online, although many VA service users do not use My Health e Vet, suggesting more education and research is needed to reduce barriers to its use. Conclusion Although adoption of My Health e Vet has been slow, the majority of veterans, including mental health service users, use the internet and indicate a willingness to receive and interact with health information online.
Conformations of Low-Molecular-Weight Lignin Polymers in Water

Low-molecular-weight lignin binds to cellulose during the thermochemical pretreatment of biomass for biofuel production, which prevents the efficient hydrolysis of the cellulose to sugars. The binding properties of lignin are influenced strongly by the conformations it adopts. Here, we use molecular dynamics simulations in aqueous solution to investigate the dependence of the shape of lignin polymers on chain length and temperature. Lignin is found to adopt collapsed conformations in water at 300 and 500 K. However, at 300 K, a discontinuous transition is found in the shape of the polymer as a function of the chain length. Below a critical degree of polymerization, Nc =15, the polymer adopts less spherical conformations than above Nc. The transition disappears at high temperatures (500 K) at which only spherical shapes are adopted. An implication relevant to cellulosic biofuel production is that lignin will self-aggregate even at high pretreatment temperatures.