cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Resection of Descending Thoracic Aorta Using Peripheral Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Twenty-three patients have had resection and graft replacement of the descending thoracic aorta utilizing peripheral cardiopulmonary bypass. Three patients died in the immediate postoperative period; one from a myocardial infarction and two from a cardiac arrest during closure of the chest, giving an operative mortality of 13.6 per cent. Another individual died eight weeks after surgery from pneumonia. The technique would appear to be more efficacious than the previously described methods in that it assures: 1) a constant rate of infusion independent of cardiac output, 2) improved surgical exposure by removal of the perfusion tubing from the chest, 3) assurance of adequate blood flow to the infradiaphragmatic organs.
The perception of interleaved melodies

Abstract If the notes of two melodies whose pitch ranges do not overlap are interleaved in time so that successive tones come from the different melodies, the resulting sequence of tones is perceptually divided into groups that correspond to the two melodies. Such “melodic fission” demonstrates perceptual grouping based on pitch alone, and has been used extensively in music. Experiment I showed that the identification of interleaved pairs of familiar melodies is possible if their pitch ranges do not overlap, but difficult otherwise. A short-term recognition-memory paradigm (Expt II) showed that interleaving a “background” melody with an unfamiliar melody interferes with same-different judgments regardless of the separation of their pitch ranges, but that range separation attenuates the interference effect. When pitch ranges overlap, listeners can overcome the interference effect and recognize a familiar target melody if the target is prespecified, thereby permitting them to search actively for it (Expt III). But familiarity or prespecification of the interleaved background melody appears not to reduce its interfering effects on same-different judgments concerning unfamiliar target melodies (Expt IV).
The Effects of Reinforcement Rate on the Spontaneous Social Initiations of Socially Withdrawn Preschoolers.

Social skills priming was used to increase the spontaneous social initiations of 2 socially withdrawn preschoolers, 1 of whom had been diagnosed with autism. During priming sessions, the teacher prompted and reinforced social behaviors (e.g., smiling, verbal initiations). We varied the rate of reinforcement during priming sessions and measured the effects of this manipulation on the rate of spontaneous social initiations during the subsequent classroom activity. Spontaneous initiations were more frequent after high rates of reinforcement than after low rates of reinforcement.
The multiple sources of women's aging anxiety and their relationship with psychological distress.

Objective: The authors examine associations of three sources of women’s aging anxiety—declining attractiveness, health, and fertility—with social contexts of their lives, including locations in systems of inequality, connections to institutions, relationships, and health. They also explore links between aging anxieties and distress. Method: Employing data from the National Survey of Midlife Development in the United States conducted in 1995-1996, the authors use logistic and OLS regression. Results: Anxiety about attractiveness is higher among women who are younger, White, heterosexual, employed, separated/divorced, less financially independent, and have worse relationships. Anxiety about health is greater among women who are younger, White, less financially independent, and have worse relationships and health. Anxiety about fertility is higher among younger, more educated, heterosexual, more financially independent, and childless women. Anxiety about health and attractiveness predicts greater distress. Discussion: This study suggests that correlates and mental health consequences of aging anxiety differ across sources of concern.
Development of Rat Chorda Tympani Sodium Responses: Evidence for Age-Dependent Changes in Global Amiloride-Sensitive Na+Channel Kinetics

In rat, chorda tympani nerve taste responses to Na+ salts increase between roughly 10 and 45 days of age to reach stable, mature magnitudes. Previous evidence from in vitro preparations and from ta...
Descriptive Analyses of Pediatric Food Refusal and Acceptance.

Functional analyses of inappropriate mealtime behavior typically include conditions to determine if the contingent delivery of attention, tangible items, or escape reinforce food refusal. In the current investigation, descriptive analyses were conducted for 25 children who had been admitted to a program for the assessment and treatment of food refusal to determine if the consequences commonly delivered during functional analyses were observed during parent-conducted meals. The conditional probabilities for the delivery of attention, tangible items, and escape following food refusal and acceptance were compared to the unconditional probabilities of each event. Results showed that attention and escape most frequently followed refusal and differed depending on the topography of refusal. Implications for further evaluations of food refusal using similar methods are discussed.
Risk Management within a Hierarchical Multiobjective Framework

This paper focuses on the issues of risk management in a hierarchical multi-objective framework. A discussion of the control of expected extreme values is followed by a description of a risk management model suitable for hierarchical power-decentralized systems that are composed of a coordinating central system and plural, semi autonomous, lower-level systems, each of which possesses a decisionmaking unit with its own multiobjectives. The decision makers at the upper level and at the lower level have different attitudes toward risk. The central decision maker is concerned with the control of the expected extreme values, while the lower-level systems consider the popular expected values. A solution scheme is developed by extending the decomposition strategy of direct distribution, and an example problem is studied.
Deep Velocity Profiling Using Lowered Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers: Bottom Track and Inverse Solutions*

Lowered acoustic Doppler current profilers (LADCPs) have matured from an experimental instrument to an operational hydrographic tool to study ocean dynamics. The data processing, however, is still in a rather primitive state. First, a method to estimate bottom-track velocities using the standard water profile data was developed. Then inverse solutions are presented that enhance the standard data processing by adding external constraints such as bottom-referenced velocity profiles. Depending on the depth of the profile and the ADCP range the inclusion of bottom-track data can reduce the local velocity errors by a significant factor. The least squares framework also allows for simplified error analysis of the LADCP system and some of the trade-offs are discussed.
Dissemination and characteristics of acute care for elders (ACE) units in the United States.

Objective The objective of this paper is to determine prevalence and characteristics of acute care for elders (ACE) units and hospital characteristics associated with the presence of an ACE unit. Methods Data on characteristics and prevalence of ACE units were obtained by surveying all established geriatric medical divisions across U.S. medical schools. Data on hospital characteristics such as number of beds, revenue, number of Medicare inpatients, and average length of stay were obtained from the 1999 American Hospital Association Annual Survey Data. Descriptive statistics and t test were used to analyze the characteristics of ACE units. Stepwise logistic regression was used to analyze the hospital characteristics associated with the presence of an ACE unit. Results The survey identified 16 geriatric divisions and programs with ACE units. Hospitals that have ACE units differ significantly with respect to number of beds and total revenue, compared with institutions that do not have an ACE unit. Stepwise logistic regression indicated total hospital revenue was the only factor significantly associated with the presence of an ACE unit. Conclusions ACE units are attractive interdisciplinary models to address the particular needs of the elderly during their hospital stay. Low presence of ACE units warrants further research as to reasons more hospitals have not included them, given the available evidence for clinical, functional, and economic benefits.
Consistent line clusters for building recognition in CBIR

This paper introduces a new mid-level feature, the consistent line cluster for use in content-based image retrieval. The color, orientation, and spatial features of line segments are exploited to group them into line clusters. The interrelationships among different clusters and the intra relationships within single clusters are used to recognize and roughly locate buildings in photographic images. Experiments are performed on a database of color images of outdoor scenes.
Projections of Drosophila multidendritic neurons in the central nervous system: links with peripheral dendrite morphology

Neurons establish diverse dendritic morphologies during development, and a major challenge is to understand how these distinct developmental programs might relate to, and influence, neuronal function. Drosophila dendritic arborization (da) sensory neurons display class-specific dendritic morphology with extensive coverage of the body wall. To begin to build a basis for linking dendrite structure and function in this genetic system, we analyzed da neuron axon projections in embryonic and larval stages. We found that multiple parameters of axon morphology, including dorsoventral position, midline crossing and collateral branching, correlate with dendritic morphological class. We have identified a class-specific medial-lateral layering of axons in the central nervous system formed during embryonic development, which could allow different classes of da neurons to develop differential connectivity to second-order neurons. We have examined the effect of Robo family members on class-specific axon lamination, and have also taken a forward genetic approach to identify new genes involved in axon and dendrite development. For the latter, we screened the third chromosome at high resolution in vivo for mutations that affect class IV da neuron morphology. Several known loci, as well as putative novel mutations, were identified that contribute to sensory dendrite and/or axon patterning. This collection of mutants, together with anatomical data on dendrites and axons, should begin to permit studies of dendrite diversity in a combined developmental and functional context, and also provide a foundation for understanding shared and distinct mechanisms that control axon and dendrite morphology.
Fear of Hypoglycemia in the Parents of Children and Adolescents With Diabetes: Maladaptive or Healthy Response?

Sixty-one parents of children with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus completed modified versions of the Hypoglycemic Fear Survey (HFS) and the Diabetes Quality of Life (DQOL) scale. They also indicated their child's history of hypoglycemic-related seizures or loss of consciousness (SLC) events. Parental HFS scores were significantly greater if their child had ever experienced a SLC event or experienced a SLC event within the past year. Parental HFS scores were positively correlated with general parental worry about their child having diabetes. Adolescent children who experienced a SLC event during the past year reported greater HFS scores, greater general worry about diabetes, and a greater negative impact of having diabetes compared with adolescents with no such history. Despite the greater fear of hypoglycemia in parents and adolescents, there was no significant difference in HbA1 values between children with or without any history of SLC events or children with or without a SLC event within the past year.
Common INSIG2 polymorphisms are associated with age-related changes in body size and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol from young adulthood to middle age.

Abstract Insulin-induced gene 2 ( INSIG2 ) plays an important role in the regulation of cholesterol and fatty acids synthesis. A polymorphism, rs7566605, located 10 kilobases upstream of the INSIG2 gene, was identified in a genomewide association study of obesity. We conducted an association study of 12 INSIG2 tag–single nucleotide polymorphisms with longitudinal measures of body size (body mass index and waist circumference) and lipid metabolism (plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides levels). We investigated their interaction with age in 4304 Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults participants (49.5% blacks, 50.5% whites) followed prospectively for 20 years. rs7566605 was not associated with variation in body size or lipid metabolism at any age in either racial group. However, rs1352083 and rs10185316 were associated with age-related decline in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in whites ( P = .0005 and .04, respectively). A similar trend was observed in blacks who consistently maintained a body mass index less than 25 kg/m 2 over the study period. These data support a role of INSIG2 sequence variation in the regulation of cholesterol metabolism.
Breast CT: potential for breast cancer screening and diagnosis

Although screening mammography has been shown to be effective in reducing breast cancer mortality, a new technique called breast computed tomography (CT) is being studied in the hope that breast cancer can be detected even earlier. A prototype unit has been designed, fabricated and tested at the University of California, Davis, USA, and is currently being used in a Phase II clinical trial to study the feasibility of breast CT for breast cancer detection and diagnosis. A total of 46 volunteers and patients have been imaged, and the breast CT images show impressive anatomical detail of the breast that is not appreciated in mammography. The radiation dose levels needed to produce excellent image quality are equal to two-view mammography. Further study of breast CT is needed to better understand its potential role in breast cancer screening and diagnosis.
Assessment of global myocardial perfusion reserve using cardiovascular magnetic resonance of coronary sinus flow at 3 Tesla

Despite increasing clinical use, there is limited data regarding regadenoson in stress perfusion cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR). In particular, given its long half-life the optimal stress protocol remains unclear. Although Myocardial Perfusion Reserve (MPR) may provide additive prognostic information, current techniques for its measurement are cumbersome and challenging for routine clinical practice. The aims of this study were: 1) To determine the feasibility of MPR quantification during regadenoson stress CMR by measurement of Coronary Sinus (CS) flow; and 2) to investigate the role of aminophylline reversal during regadenoson stress-CMR. 117 consecutive patients with possible myocardial ischemia were prospectively enrolled. Perfusion imaging was performed at 1 minute and 15 minutes after administration of 0.4 mg regadenoson. A subgroup of 41 patients was given aminophylline (100 mg) after stress images were acquired. CS flow was measured using phase-contrast imaging at baseline (pre CS flow), and immediately after the stress (peak CS flow) and rest (post CS flow) perfusion images. CS flow measurements were obtained in 92% of patients with no adverse events. MPR was significantly underestimated when calculated as peak CS flow/post CS flow as compared to peak CS flow/pre CS flow (2.43 ± 0.20 vs. 3.28 ± 0.32, p = 0.03). This difference was abolished when aminophylline was administered (3.35 ± 0.44 vs. 3.30 ± 0.52, p = 0.95). Impaired MPR (peak CS flow/pre CS flow <2) was associated with advanced age, diabetes, current smoking and higher Framingham risk score. Regadenoson stress CMR with MPR measurement from CS flow can be successfully performed in most patients. This measurement of MPR appears practical to perform in the clinical setting. Residual hyperemia is still present even 15 minutes after regadenoson administration, at the time of resting-perfusion acquisition, and is completely reversed by aminophylline. Our findings suggest routine aminophylline administration may be required when performing stress CMR with regadenoson.
Climate, duration, and N placement determine N2O emissions in reduced tillage systems: a meta‐analysis

No-tillage and reduced tillage (NT/RT) management practices are being promoted in agroecosystems to reduce erosion, sequester additional soil C and reduce production costs. The impact of NT/RT on N2O emissions, however, has been variable with both increases and decreases in emissions reported. Herein, we quantitatively synthesize studies on the short- and long-term impact of NT/RT on N2O emissions in humid and dry climatic zones with emissions expressed on both an area- and crop yield-scaled basis. A meta-analysis was conducted on 239 direct comparisons between conventional tillage (CT) and NT/RT. In contrast to earlier studies, averaged across all comparisons, NT/RT did not alter N2O emissions compared with CT. However, NT/RT significantly reduced N2O emissions in experiments >10 years, especially in dry climates. No significant correlation was found between soil texture and the effect of NT/RT on N2O emissions. When fertilizer-N was placed at � 5 cm depth, NT/RT significantly reduced areascaled N2O emissions, in particular under humid climatic conditions. Compared to CT under dry climatic conditions, yield-scaled N2O increased significantly (57%) when NT/RT was implemented <10 years, but decreased significantly (27%) after � 10 years of NT/RT. There was a significant decrease in yield-scaled N2O emissions in humid climates when fertilizer-N was placed at � 5 cm depth. Therefore, in humid climates, deep placement of fertilizer-N is recommended when implementing NT/RT. In addition, NT/RT practices need to be sustained for a prolonged time, particularly in dry climates, to become an effective mitigation strategy for reducing N2O emissions.
Genetic Analysis of the Structure and Function of Transfer Messenger RNA Pseudoknot 1

tmRNA rescues stalled ribosomes in eubacteria by forcing the ribosome to abandon its mRNA template and resume translation with tmRNA itself as a template. Pseudoknot 1 (pk1), immediately upstream of this coding region in tmRNA, is a structural element that is considered essential for tmRNA function based on the analysis of pk1 mutants in vitro. pk1 binds near the ribosomal decoding site and may make base-specific contacts with tmRNA ligands. To study pk1 structure and function in vivo, we have developed a genetic selection that ties the life of Escherichia coli cells to tmRNA activity. Mutation of pk1 at 20% per base and selection for tmRNA activity yielded sequences that retain the same pseudoknot fold. In contrast, selection of active mutants from 106 completely random sequences identified hairpin structures that functionally replace pk1. Rational design of a hairpin with increased stability using an unrelated sequence yielded a tmRNA mutant with nearly wild-type activity. We conclude that the role of pk1 in tmRNA function is purely structural and that it can be replaced with a variety of hairpin structures. Our results demonstrate that in the study of functional RNAs, the inactivity of a mutant designed to destroy a given structure should not be interpreted as proof that the structure is necessary for RNA function. Such mutations may only destabilize a global fold that could be formed equally well by an entirely different, stable structure.
Homeostatic control of bone structure: an application of feedback theory.

The regulation of bone mass and structure in the weight-bearing skeleton is governed to a great extent by the mechanical demands placed upon the bone tissue. The apparent biological goal is the maintenance of a minimum adequate structure, in which the margin of safety between normal mechanical demands and fracture is balanced by the cost of excessive bone mass on mobility. Frost has developed two powerful postulates concerning bone adaptation: (a) there exist threshold levels of mechanical strain, above or below which bone adaptation is turned on, and (b) the set point for normal bone structure can be modulated by hormones. A model was developed, using Frost's postulates and simple feedback theory, that describes the interaction between biochemical influences and mechanical influences on bone structure. The model predicts that biochemical agents that influence bone structure independently of the mechanical feedback system (e.g., calcitonin) are capable of only limited anabolic effects on bone mass because their influences conflict with mechanical influences. However, biochemical agents that influence bone structure by changing the set point of the mechanical feedback system (e.g., estrogen) will provide lasting changes in bone structure. Age-related changes occur within the effector and transduction components of the mechanical feedback system that tend to make it sluggish. These changes may lead to increased bone fragility because the system is no longer capable of maintaining adequate bone structure.
The Ethics Of Setting Course Expectations To Manipulate Student Evaluations Of Teaching Effectiveness In Higher Education: An Examination Of The Ethical Dilemmas Created By The Use Of SETEs And A Proposal For Further Study And Analysis

Because student evaluations of teaching effectiveness (SETEs) are an important and widely used tool used in the evaluation and reward systems for faculty members in higher education, a discussion and analysis of the ethical problems that may arise as a result of the conflict created by expectations of performance is provided. This discussion specifically focuses on ethical issues related to setting course expectations and attendance policies to manipulate students’ perceptions of course rigor and the overall evaluation of the course and the instructor.
Relationships between dietary, plasma, and muscle amino acids in horses

Muscle and plasma amino acids were evaluated in horses of various functions. Eight horses were used for exercise (EH) and maintenance (MH) with 5 pregnant mares (PH) that continued into lactation (LH). Five weanlings were used for growth (WH). The EH, MH, and PH groups were used for 8 wk and the LH and WH groups for 4 wk. Blood samples and muscle biopsies were taken at the end of the study and analyzed for amino acids. There were no differences in total muscle amino acids between groups except histidine, which was lower for the EH group. Postfeeding amino acids were greater in the MH, EH, PH, and LH groups for lysine, arginine, and histidine, whereas threonine increased in the MH, EH, and PH groups. The MH group had postfeeding increases in plasma valine, methionine, isoleucine, leucine, and phenylalanine. Correlations within function were found between total and free muscle amino acids as well as plasma for several amino acids. The greatest number of correlations occurred within the weanling group. The WH group had correlations between intake and plasma threonine, lysine, valine, isoleucine, leucine, methionine, and phenylalanine; between intake and total muscle threonine, methionine, leucine, and phenylalanine; and between plasma and total muscle lysine, phenylalanine, and leucine. These data suggest that the balance between supply and demand of amino acids was in excess for the MH group but close to balance in the WH group. These data suggest potential limiting amino acids for various functions.
Strains in Aluminum Stamp Formed Pans Resulting From Closed-Loop Control of Local Forces

A stamp forming die, whose flexible blank holder was designed using FEA, was built. A closed-loop control system was used to control local punch forces and wrinkling by controlling both blank holder forces and draw bead penetration. The controllers for the draw beads featured an advanced PID controller with a Smith Predictor and Kalman Filter. A Bang-bang controller was also incorporated into the control system in order prevent control saturation. Fuzzy logic was used to transition from once controller to the other. Once closed-loop was implemented, tests were performed to evaluate the strains in the pans for various forming conditions. These results were compared to open-loop tests and it was found that the strains measured from closed-loop control tests resulted in more uniform strains and that the strains were further from the forming limit curves than strains from tests that were performed under open-loop conditions. Furthermore, it was seen that the strains in the regions were local force were controlled resulted in more uniform strain fields. Hence it was concluded that controlling local punch forces resulted in the strain control of critical regions.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
GaAs optomechanical circuits

We present optomechanical circuits in GaAs, where localized photons and phonons interact via the photoelastic effect, and are coupled to propagating photons and phonons that are read out optically or electrically (via the piezoelectric effect).
Microscopic relaxations in a protein sustained down to 160K in a non-glass forming organic solvent

Abstract Background We have studied microscopic dynamics of a protein in carbon disulfide, a non-glass forming solvent, down to its freezing temperature of ca. 160 K. Methods We have utilized quasielastic neutron scattering. Results A comparison of lysozyme hydrated with water and dissolved in carbon disulfide reveals a stark difference in the temperature dependence of the protein's microscopic relaxation dynamics induced by the solvent. In the case of hydration water, the common protein glass-forming solvent, the protein relaxation slows down in response to a large increase in the water viscosity on cooling down, exhibiting a well-known protein dynamical transition. The dynamical transition disappears in non-glass forming carbon disulfide, whose viscosity remains a weak function of temperature all the way down to freezing at just below 160 K. The microscopic relaxation dynamics of lysozyme dissolved in carbon disulfide is sustained down to the freezing temperature of its solvent at a rate similar to that measured at ambient temperature. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that protein dynamical transition is not merely solvent-assisted, but rather solvent-induced, or, more precisely, is a reflection of the temperature dependence of the solvent's glass-forming dynamics. General significance We hypothesize that, if the long debated idea regarding the direct link between the microscopic relaxations and the biological activity in proteins is correct, then not only the microscopic relaxations, but also the activity, could be sustained in proteins all the way down to the freezing temperature of a non-glass forming solvent with a weak temperature dependence of its viscosity. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Science for Life" Guest Editor: Dr. Austen Angell, Dr. Salvatore Magazu and Dr. Federica Migliardo.
LAB RESEARCH OF NITROGEN ALTERNATING FOAM WATER INJIECTION IN M36 BLOCK RESERVIOR

Using synthetic fluids of separate oil and gas samples from Ma36-5-5 well compounded according to gas oil ratio 24.7(m~3/t,) flooding experiments are conducted upon two groups of long real formation cores from Xinxia~2_3 and Xinxia~2_(4-5) of Ma36 well block to research flooding efficiencies by nitrogen alternating foam water injection. Results show that the recovery enhanced by nitrogen alternating water injection with the core of Xinxia~2_3 is 6% or so and enhanced by nitrogen alternating foam water injection is 10% or so. And with the core of Xinxia~2_(4-5), the recovery enhanced by nitrogen alternating water injection is (3%) or so, while enhanced by nitrogen alternating foam water injection is 8% or so. It is also demonstrated that the displacement efficiency by foam water alternating injection is more obvious, and the enhanced recovery is higher, but it needs longer injection time and bigger injection volume, and the injection pressure also rises quickly.
Water as a contrast medium: a re-evaluation using the multidetector-row computed tomography.

Water as an intraluminal negative contrast medium produces improved image quality with reduced artefact. However, rapid absorption of oral water in the bowel relative to speed and timing of image c...
Exposure Limits for Health

Publisher Summary This chapter presents results for recommended (REL) and permissible (PEL) exposure limits in air for safeguarding health for major organic chemical compounds. The REL value is the recommended exposure limit by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. The PEL value is the permissible exposure limit for maintaining health as provided by Occupational Safety and Health Act. Both REL and PEL values apply to a 40 hour workweek. The last column in the tabulation provides immediately dangerous to life or health values. The tabulation also provides the freezing and boiling point temperatures which are helpful in determining whether the substance is a gas, liquid or solid at ambient conditions. The results are displayed in an easy-to-use table, which is especially applicable for rapid engineering usage. The organic chemicals encompass hydrocarbon, oxygen, nitrogen, halogen, silicon, sulfur and other chemical type compounds.
Geologic carbon sequestration injection wells in overpressured storage reservoirs: estimating area of review

The Area of Review (AoR) under the US Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Class VI CO2 injection permit is defined as the region surrounding the geologic carbon sequestration (GCS) project where underground sources of drinking water (USDWs) may be endangered. Estimation of the AoR is based on the calculated reservoir pressurization due to CO2 injection and the associated potential to lift saline water into potable groundwater aquifers through open flow paths (e.g. wells) assuming the system is hydrostatic. In cases where the storage reservoirs are not initially hydrostatic, and in particular where they are overpressured, AoR estimation methods need to be altered. In this paper, we present and apply an approach to evaluating potential endangerment of USDW based on comparing brine leakage through a hypothetical open flow path in a no-injection scenario and brine leakage in a CO2-injection scenario. We present six possible ways to normalize injection-related leakage relative to no-injection leakage. We calculate leakage using semi-analytical solutions for single-phase flow and model reservoir pressurization and flow up (single) leaky wells located progressively farther from the injection well. For an example case of relative overpressure and using an injection-rate-based approach, results show 50‒60% larger open-well-leakage rates for wells located at 2 km and 10% increase for wells located at 10 km from the injection well relative to the no-injection case. If total brine leakage is considered, the results depend strongly on the assumed pre-injection to post-injection time frames and on the methods of normalization used to calculate incremental leakage. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Caution during use of desmopressin in IPSS

We thank Dr Pecori Giraldi and colleagues for their letter concerning caution during the use of desmopressin in inferior petrosal sinus sampling (IPSS). The authors suggest that, because of the hypercoagulable state that characterizes Cushing's disease, desmopressin may not be safe since it has been shown to increase the level of von Willebrand factor and could therefore lead …
A physician's reflection on the moral use of human papilloma virus vaccine.

Controversies often surround the use of vaccines, particularly among the pediatric population. Often, the possible temporal relationship between vaccination and subsequent disease is at the center of the controversy. However, others have questioned the moral status of the human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine because of some instances of state coercion and also the possibility that the vaccine may promote promiscuity. This article addresses the moral status of the HPV vaccine from the perspective of a primary care physician and father of four daughters.Lay Summary: Parents are often asked by pediatricians for permission to vaccinate their children under the age of consent against the sexually transmitted virus HPV. This article addresses the medical and moral concerns about vaccination with some guiding principles to assist in a final decision.
USR: Enabling identity awareness and usable app access control during hand-free mobile interactions

We propose a new approach for improving user experience and privacy protection during human-mobile speech interaction by considering factors, such as user identity, application privacy level, usable app access control, and application function class. To integrate these factors into speech recognition on the mobile device, we design and implement a unified speech-speaker recognizer (USR) framework, which will recognize both speech content and speaker identification, and respond accordingly. This USR framework consists of an application interface, a speaker recognition module, a speech recognition module, and an identity management module. A comparison study was conducted contrasting the benefits and limitations of USR framework to the established original speech recognition and app access control framework on mobile device, such as Google Voice, and AppLock. Our results show that, while USR framework intuitively improved mobile privacy by serving only the phone owner for specific customized applications, USR framework was also able to provide better user experience across a number of tasks.
Rifaximin for Pertuzumab-Related GI Toxicities.

Pertuzumab is a monoclonal antibody against HER-2. Diarrhea and abdominal pain are common adverse events of pertuzumab-based therapy, occurring in almost 70% of patients. The incidence of gastrointestinal toxicities intensifies when pertuzumab is given in combination with chemotherapy. Rifaximin, a non-absorbable oral antibiotic, may provide symptomatic relief in patients with refractory gastrointestinal toxicities from pertuzumab-based therapy beyond standard routine antidiarrheal medications. We present a case of HER-2 related therapy induced diarrhea and abdominal pain managed successfully with Rifaximin.
Recurrence of Chronic Urticaria: Incidence and Associated Factors

Background Chronic urticaria (CU) is urticaria that has been present continuously or intermittently for at least 6 weeks. Although the prevalence and characteristics of CU are well established, little is known about recurrent CU (RCU). Objectives We sought to establish a definition, determine the frequency, and evaluate risk factors for RCU. Methods A retrospective chart review of adult patients with CU evaluated at the University of Texas Southwestern allergy and immunology clinic was performed. RCU was defined as CU recurring at least 6 months after cessation of controller therapy and resolution of prior CU symptoms. Charts were reviewed for symptom resolution and recurrence, subtypes of CU (idiopathic, physical, and urticarial vasculitis), and medication usage (first-line agents, alternative agents, and steroid dependence). Results Forty-five of 341 patients (13%) had RCU. The recurrence group had a higher frequency of alternative agent use at 57.8% (n = 26) compared with the nonrecurrence group at 34.8% (n = 103), which was statistically significant ( P P P P = .05, respectively). Conclusions RCU occurs in approximately 13% of patients with CU in our clinic population. Alternative agent use and antihistamine refractoriness appear to place patients at increased risk for recurrence compared with first-line agent use alone.
In situ crosslinking of surface-initiated ring opening metathesis polymerization of polynorbornene for improved stability

Abstract Hypothesis In situ crosslinking is expected to increase the solvent stability of coatings formed by surface-initiated ring opening metathesis polymerization (SI ROMP). Solvent-associated degradation limits the utility of SI ROMP coatings. SI ROMP coatings have a unique capacity for post-functionalization through reaction of the unsaturated site on the polymer backbone. Any post-reaction scheme which requires a liquid solvent has the potential to degrade the coating and lower the thickness of the resulting film. Experiments We designed a macromolecular crosslinking group based on PEG dinorbornene. The PEG length is tailored to the expected mean chain to chain distance during surface-initiated polymerization. This crosslinking macromer is randomly copolymerized with norbornene through SI ROMP on a gold coated substrate. The solvent stability of polynorbornene coatings with and without PEG dinorbornene is quantitatively determined, and the mechanism of degradation is further supported through XPS and AFM analyses. Findings The addition of the 0.25 mol% PEG dinorbornene significantly increases the solvent stability of the SI ROMP coatings. The crosslinker presence in the more stable films is supported with observable PEG absorbances by FTIR and an increase in contact angle hysteresis when compared to non-crosslinked coatings. The oxidation of the SI ROMP coatings is supported by the observation of carbonyl oxygen in the polynorbornene coatings. The rapid loss of the non-crosslinked SI ROMP coating corresponds to nanoscale pitting across the surface and micron-scale regions of widespread film loss. The crosslinked coatings have uniform nanoscale pitting, but the crosslinked films show no evidence of micron-scale film damage. In all, the incorporation of minimal crosslinking content is a simple strategy for improving the solvent stability of SI ROMP coatings.
How accurate are your simulations? Effects of confined aqueous volume and AMBER FF99SB and CHARMM22/CMAP force field parameters on structural ensembles of intrinsically disordered proteins: Amyloid-β42 in water.

ABSTRACTAmyloid-β42 (Aβ42) is an intrinsically disordered peptide intimately related to the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative diseases. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are extensively u...
Cerebral Angiography: Aneurysms

A cerebral aneurysm is an abnormal outpouching of a diseased vessel wall of an intracranial artery. The annual risk of aneurysm rupture, based on the International Study of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms, is approximately 0.7% per year. Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) from an intracranial aneurysm rupture has a 40% 30-day fatality rate. Cerebral aneurysms can be treated with simple coil placement, balloon remodeling, stent-assisted coiling, flow diversion, and intrasaccular flow diversion. Two randomized control trials in patients presenting with SAH showed a better outcome with endovascular coiling in comparison with surgical clip placement.
Discovering semantic relations using prepositional phrases

Extracting semantical relations between concepts from texts is an important research issue in text mining and ontology construction. This paper presents a machine learning-based approach to semantic relation discovery using prepositional phrases. The semantic relations are characterized by the prepositions and the semantic classes of the concepts in the prepositional phrase. WordNet and word sense disambiguation are used to extract semantic classes of concepts. Preliminary experimental results are reported here showing the promise of the proposed method.
The impact of training in enlightened countries

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the impact of training in enlightened countries. Many computer-based training (CBT) programs fail to incorporate the attributes of being able to assess and monitor learner progress and make the accruing information available in a form that can be acted upon in real time. Collectively, such attributes fall into a category referred to as learning management including the capability to perform the following functions: achievement testing in all of its forms (placement, diagnostic, mastery), achievement record-keeping, achievement/status reporting, and assignment of appropriate learning prescriptions. To train people effectively by using a computer, one should provide the following: interactive graphics, individual instruction, positive feedback, a high degree of interaction, a compact and succinct student text, and a comprehensive instructor's guide.
Therapeutics for the Insane, Dilemmas for Therapists

Therapists and therapy surround both the issue of insanity and the erstwhile insane defendant-turned-patient. The Therapeutic State, with its rehabilitative promise, sends its emissary the therapist to administer therapeutics. Whereas the Law has been reluctant to turn the insanity decision over to the medico-psychological specialist, and that reluctance has increased of late, the courts have showed no such hesitancy in turning the allegedly insane defendant or the NGRI acquittee over to the therapists for treatment. If the allegedly insane individual is not competent to stand trial, then the therapist is called in to make him so. If the defendant is found not guilty by reason of insanity, then the acquittee is typically incarcerated in the custody of psychiatry until cured. And when the mental health professional says so, the defendant-turned-patient is set free. Or so it has been until Hinckley fired.
FAVORABLE BEDROCK FORMATIONS FOR DEEP, MAN-MADE CAVERNS IN NEW ENGLAND (USA)

The storage of compressed air and/or water in underground caverns is being investigated in some countries among alternatives for meeting peak power demands. Cavern depth would be as much as 800 m. Geologic feasibility depends upon suitable bedrock. Data for this New England study are derived from various maps and reports of previous geologic surveys and from additional field reconnaissance. Over 1180 rock formations have been studied in the six-state region. The evidence is sufficient to indicate that about 90 formations can be considered to have characteristics favorable for possible excavation of large caverns, pending further tests. Most are uniform masses of relatively undeformed granite. Low permeability and cavern stability are the main criteria. The need for multi-level geologic maps in underground design is noted. Etude geologique de cavernes possibles en La Nouvelle-Angleterre L'entreposage d'air comprime dans des cavernes souterraines est envisage dans plusieurs pays comme une possibilite pour faire face aux demandes de pointe de l'energie electrique. Les cavernes auraient jusqu'a 800 m de profondeur. La realisation geologique depend d'un soubassement convenable. Les donnees pour cette etude en La Nouvelle-Angleterre sont obtenues a partir de divers rapports et des cartes sur les etudes geologiques anterieures et de reconnaissances supplementaires sur place. Plus de 1180 formations de rocs ont ete etudiees dans les six Etats. Il y a suffisamment de preuves etablissant la possibilite d'entreposer de l'air comprime en nombre d'endroits a cause des formations de roc localement superieures, en attendant des essais plus pousses. La plupart sont des masses uniformes de granit non-deforme. Geologische Studie potentieller Hohlengebiete in New England Die Lagerung von Druckluft in unterirdischen Hohlen wird in verschiedenen Landern als eine Alternative fur die Deckung des Spitzenbedarfes an Elektrizitat in Betracht gezogen. Die Hohlen wurden in eine Tiefe bis zu 800 M reichen. Die geologische Durchfuhrbarkeit hangt von geeignetem Grundgestein ab. Daten fur diese Studie in New England wurden in verschiedenen Mappen und Berichten und zusatzlicher Felderkundungen zusammengestellt. Mehr als 1180 Gesteinformationen wurden in einem Gebiet von sechs Staaten erforscht. Es ist genugend Beweis vorhanden um damit rechnen zu konnen, dass die Moglichkeit einer Aufbewahrung von Druckluft an einigen Stellen besteht, infolge besserer lokaler Gesteinformationen, abhangig von weiteren Untersuchungen. Bei den meisten handelt es sich um gleichformige Massen von nicht deformiertem Granit.
Erosion resistance of aluminum matrix composites

ABSTRACT The addition of ceramic reinforcement to a metal matrix usually improves the wear resistance of metals. The purpose of this investigation is to evaluate the slurry erosion resistance of different types of aluminum matrix composites. The erosion tests were done using an apparatus developed in-house. Two volumetric concentrations of alumina particles were tested. The increase in concentration of particles from 20% to 45% by vol. did not improve the erosion resistance. Also, the effect of particle size was negligible in the range studied. The independence of the erosion wear with respect to these structural parameters can be explained by a protection effect brought about by the particles of the composites.
The final stages of slip and volcanism on an oceanic detachment fault at 13°48′N, Mid‐Atlantic Ridge

Author(s): Parnell-Turner, RE; Mittelstaedt, E; Kurz, MD; Jones, MR; Soule, SA; Klein, F; Wanless, VD; Fornari, DJ
Text-to-Speech Software and Learning: Investigating the Relevancy of the Voice Effect.

Technology advances quickly in today’s society. This is particularly true in regard to instructional multimedia. One increasingly important aspect of instructional multimedia design is determining ...
Weathering the Storm: Conditional Effects of Natural Disasters on Retrospective Voting in Gubernatorial Elections—A Replication and Extension:

Previous research shows that uncontrollable events like natural disasters hinder incumbent leaders’ chances at re-election, but also suggests that competent responses to such crises can benefit inc...
Diet Guide Nutrient Nutri-Unit Tables

This chapter illustrates diet guide nutrient nutri-unit table for various food groups such as beverages; appetizers and snack foods; breads, pastas, and grain products; breakfast items; cooking ingredients and sauces; dairy products and eggs; desserts and sweets; eating out, fast foods; fruits and fruit juices; main dishes; salads; sandwiches and soups; and vegetables.
Measurement of foliar spray retention on creeping bentgrass

Experiments were conducted to evaluate the impact of spray volume, nozzle type, adjuvants, the presence of dew, and their interactions on foliar retention of creeping bentgrass. Tartrazine, a common food dye, was used as a tracer in this study. Increasing spray volume from 95 L ha–1 to 1,500 L ha–1 decreased foliar retention efficiency from 98% to approximately 85%. Compared with flat-fan nozzles, air-induction nozzles delivered similar retention efficiency at all spray volumes evaluated. However, flat-fan nozzles provided higher uniformity and more thorough coverage. Adding nonionic surfactants, organosilicone adjuvants, or methylated seed oils at typical concentrations yielded retention efficiency of approximately 90% to 93% regardless of spray volumes. In contrast, with water alone, increasing spray volume reduced retention efficiency from 95.9% to 87.3%. Simulated dew applied at 1,950 L ha–1 increased retention efficiency by approximately 3% when spray application volume was 190 L ha–1, while no difference was observed at 750 L ha–1. The presence of dew reduced the impact of adjuvants on retention efficiency. Large quantities of dew, 3,800 L ha–1, did reduce retention efficiency.Nomenclature: Creeping bentgrass; Agrostis stolonifera L. AGSST ‘L93'
A case of contralateral superficial inguinal recurrence of testicular embryonal carcinoma

Abstract Metastatic embyronal carcinoma to the subcutaneous tissues is rare. Prior cases have occurred in the setting of undiagnosed widely metastatic disease. Here we present the first case of metastatic embyronal cancer to the contralateral subcutaneous inguinal region in the absence of any other sites of metastatic disease.