cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of Benzene, Toluene, Xylene on the Semen Quality and the Function of Accessory Gonad of Exposed Workers.

The effects on semen and the function of accessory gonad of workers after short and long term exposure to benzene, toluene, and xylene were examined. The semen and blood of 24 married workers exposed to benzene, toluene, and xylene were collected. Routine sperm characteristic, acrosin activity, and Lactate dehydrogenase C4 (LDH-C4) relative activity were detected. The results showed that benzene, toluene, and xylene were found in the blood and semen of some ex-workers at workplaces where the air concentration of benzene, toluene, and xylene exceeded the maximum allowable concentration (MAC). No such solvents were detected in the blood and semen of workers of the control group. The sperm vitality and sperm motility decreased in the exposed workers. The mean acrosin activity, gamma-GT activity and LDH-C4 relative activity in the exposed workers were lower, and fructose concentration was higher than those in the control. There were negative correlations between sperm vitality, sperm activity, acrosin activity, or LDH-C4 relative activity and working history. These results suggest that the mixture of these solvents could affect the sperm and the function of accessory gonad. This might be one reason of the abnormal pregnancy outcome among the wives of workers exposed to benzene, toluene, and xylene.
Pathologic Physiology of Angina Pectoris and Acute Myocardial Infarction

Some of the unique physiologic characteristics of the coronary circulation have been pointed out. In the normal heart, the coronary arteries are functionally end arteries. Watery injections, however, reveal anatomic fine anastomotic communications between the coronary arteries measuring less than 40 µ. But they are of limited functional significance in obviating the untoward effects of sudden coronary narrowing or occlusion. Complete occlusion or considerable narrowing of one or more coronary arteries may exist without giving rise to any clinical signs or symptoms and without having produced myocardial damage. The apparent inconsistency between the presence of long-standing obstructive arterial lesions and the absence of significant pathologic or clinical evidence of myocardial damage is dispelled by the demonstration of a collateral circulation which serves as a bypass in relation to the obstruction in each of these hearts. The pathologic and physiologic substrates of angina pectoris, coronary failure, a...
The effect of intravenous nitroglycerin on coronary blood flow and infarct size during myocardial infarction in conscious dogs

Nitroglycerin (TNG), based on electrocardiographic evidence, has been shown to reduce myocardial ischemia, but its effect on morphometrically and enzymatically estimated infarct size has not been defined. Accordingly, coronary occlusion was produced in 50 conscious dogs without LV failure. Twenty-five received TNG (200-300 micrograms/min i.v. for 8 h) and the results compared with those in 25 untreated dogs. Coronary blood flow was measured with 141Ce, 85Sr, and 95Nb (9 microns) after occlusion before TNG, 30 min after TNG, and again at 8 h. Mean blood pressure decreased from 103 to 84 mmHg with TNG vs. 99 to 94 mmHg in controls (p < 0.02). Average heart rates were similar [135 +/- 26 vs. 120 +/- 33 beats/min (SD)]. TNG Did not increase total transmural coronary flow in any region but increased subendocardial flow in the central ischemic areas by 45% (0.09 ml/min/g vs. 0.13 ml/min/g). Animals were sacrificed after 24 h. Infarct size estimated morphometrically (25 +/- 1.5 vs. 26 +/- 1.5 of LV weight) and from myocardial CK depletion (23 +/- 2 vs. 23 +/- 2) was similar for the two groups. Thus, despite increased subendocardial flow, prolonged i.v. TNG did not decrease infarct size even though a difference of 15% would have been detected with this sample size. TNG May relieve coronary spasm but does not appear to be beneficial with sustained coronary occlusion.
Hypofractionated CyberKnife radiosurgery for perichiasmatic pituitary adenomas: early results.

OBJECTIVE Radiation therapy is recommended for pituitary tumors that are refractory to surgical and medical therapies. The efficacy of single-fraction radiosurgery is established for these lesions, but lesions within 3 mm of the optic pathway cannot be safely treated with doses higher than 8 to 10 Gy. We hypothesized that the optic nerve will tolerate 5 consecutive daily radiosurgery fractions of 500 cGy with effective tumor control. METHODS We reviewed our first 20 patients with recurrent or residual pituitary adenomas within 3 mm of the optic chiasm treated with the CyberKnife radiosurgery system (Accuray, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA). Tumors were treated with a mean coverage of 97 +/- 2.2% (range, 89.8-99.7%), a mean conformity index of 1.3 +/- 0.2 (range, 1.1-1.6), and a mean treatment isodose line of 74.5 +/- 6.6% (range, 60-86%). The primary end point was an interim analysis of visual preservation, and secondary end points were radiographic and endocrinological tumor control. RESULTS The mean follow-up period for visual field testing was 26.6 +/- 10.5 months (range, 10.6-41 months). The vision of all 14 patients with intact preoperative vision remained intact. Of the 5 patients with impaired vision, 2 remained stable, and 3 improved. No patient's vision deteriorated. The mean radiographic follow-up was 29.3 +/- 8.6 months (range, 10.2-40.5 months). On magnetic resonance imaging, 12 tumors were stable, 8 were smaller, and none enlarged. CONCLUSION This preliminary study establishes that the optic nerve and chiasm tolerate CyberKnife hypofractionated radiosurgery of 5 x 500 cGy to perichiasmatic pituitary adenomas. Early data suggest that this dosing paradigm may achieve satisfactory radiographic and endocrinological tumor control for these challenging lesions, but longer follow-up is necessary to confirm these results.
Effects of nitrogen addition and salt grass (Distichlis spicata) upon high salt marsh vegetation in Northern California, USA

In the salt marshes of Tomales Bay, California, where grazing by cattle increases the input of nitrogen to the marsh (either directly or indirectly as runoff from within the salt marsh watershed), high salt marsh vegetation is dominated byDistichlis spicata and is less diverse than marshes without excess nutrients. Using a field experiment, I investigated the role of soil fertility on the plant community of the high salt marsh. I hypothesized that when soil fertility is increased by nitrogen addition plant productivity will increase, as indicated by height, biomass, and cover, and competitive exclusion, byD. spicata, will lead to a reduction in species richness and evenness, especially where the initial density ofDistichlis is high (from transplanting). After two growing seasons, biweekly nitrogen addition to the high salt marsh led to increased plant biomass and cover. Diversity was not reduced, and space preemption byDistichlis-transplants did not confer a competitive advantage. Although the dominant species thrived (e.g.,Salicornia virginica, D. spicata, Triglochin concinna) they did not displace subdominant species and decrease diversity. The vegetation response in this high salt marsh system does not support the hypothesis that as biomass and cover (indicators of productivity) increase in response to increased nitrogen, competitive exclusion will occur and diversity will decrease.
Implosive therapy--a behavioral therapy?

Abstract Despite differences in technique and theory, most approaches which are given the label of “behavioral therapy” seem to have in common the following three characteristics: (1) an emphasis placed on the direct treatment of the symptom (2) a strong tendency to reject the concepts and rationale of traditional psychodynamic approaches, and (3) the adherence to learning or conditioning models of symptom origin and modification. The present paper deals with the question as to whether implosive therapy should be considered a behavioral therapy since only the third characteristic stated above can be ascribed directly to it. A brief outline of the theory and treatment procedure of IT (Implosive Therapy) is given along with how this position relates to the above points. It is concluded that the first two of the above characteristics are superficial and that the third point should be the sole determinant of whether a position should be labeled a “behavioral therapy”.
Plasma immersion ion implantation doping using a microwave multipolar bucket plasma

Using plasma immersion ion implantation, silicon has been doped with boron in a high-voltage pulsed microwave multipolar bucket plasma system. Diborane gas (1%) diluted in helium is used as an ion source. A sheet resistance of 57 Omega / Square Operator and an implanted dose of 1.9*10/sup 15//cm/sup 2/ are obtained in 10 min. when the target potential is pulsed to -10 kV with a 1% duty cycle. The boron profile in the silicon substrate is different from that predicted for a conventional 10-keV ion implantation. Silicon p-n junctions fabricated by this technique are of good quality. >
CLINICAL AND TOXICOLOGICAL RELEVANCE OF CYP2C9: Drug-Drug Interactions and Pharmacogenetics

CYP2C9 is a major cytochrome P450 enzyme that is involved in the metabolic clearance of a wide variety of therapeutic agents, including nonsteroidal antiinflammatories, oral anticoagulants, and oral hypoglycemics. Disruption of CYP2C9 activity by metabolic inhibition or pharmacogenetic variability underlies many of the adverse drug reactions that are associated with the enzyme. CYP2C9 is also the first human P450 to be crystallized, and the structural basis for its substrate and inhibitor selectivity is becoming increasingly clear. New, ultrapotent inhibitors of CYP2C9 have been synthesised that aid in the development of quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) models to facilitate drug redesign, and extensive resequencing of the gene and studies of its regulation will undoubtedly help us understand interindividual variability in drug response and toxicity controlled by this enzyme.
Empirical subtypes of DSM-III-R alcohol dependence: United States, 1988.

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to quantify the degree of heterogeneity of the DSM-III-R alcohol dependence category by comparing the number of potential subtypes of dependence to those empirically observed in a general population survey. Forty-one percent (n = 189) of the 466 potential subtypes of DSM-III-R alcohol dependence were observed, indicating that the category is indeed heterogeneous, but not as heterogeneous as theoretically predicted. Variations in the number, percent and configuration of empirical subtypes of dependence are discussed in terms of coincident morbidity, premature death from alcoholism or death from other competing causes, reporting biases and differences in drinking patterns. The predominance of the ‘tolerance’ ‘withdrawal’ and ‘impaired control over drinking’ criteria among the empirically observed subtypes of dependence are examined within the context of the physiological dependence subtype proposed for the DSM-IV category of alcohol dependence and difficulties encountered in operationalizing these diagnostic criteria. The relevance of study findings to the validation of diagnostic categories in psychiatry is also highlighted.
Speculative execution in a real-time system

Compiler techniques can help enhance average case execution and extract parallelism opportunities in distributed real time systems. We show that there are situations in which speculative execution with rollback can improve the performance of a hard real time system, either by improving average performance while not affecting the worst-case, or by actually decreasing worst-case execution time. We also show how related strategies for partial or total precomputation can lead to improved performance. We briefly discuss possible practical compiler transformation tools to detect chances of profitable speculative execution in real-time applications. >
Sleep Problems, Depression, Substance Use, Social Bonding, and Quality of Life in Professional Firefighters

Objective: Little attention has been given to factors contributing to firefighters’ psychosomatic well-being. The purpose of this descriptive study was to examine such contributing factors in a sample of professional firefighters. Methods: Measures assessing sleep, depression, substance use, social bonding, and quality of life were examined in 112 firefighters. Results: Overall, many firefighters reported sleep deprivation (59%), binge drinking behavior (58%), poor mental well-being (21%), current nicotine use (20%), hazardous drinking behavior (14%), depression (11%), poor physical well-being (8%), caffeine overuse (5%), or poor social bonding (4%). Conclusions: Small-to-medium correlations were identified between sleep deprivation, depression, physical/mental well-being, and drinking behaviors. High-risk behaviors that impact psychosomatic well-being are prevalent in professional firefighters, which require environmental and individual-based health promotion interventions. The inter-correlation relationships between such behaviors, therefore, need to be explored in further details.
Genotypes, archetypes, and tandem repeats in the molecular epidemiology and pathogenesis of JC virus induced disease

The human polyomavirus JCV is ubiquitous, infecting greater than 70% of the population worldwide, (Berger and Major, 1999; Hou and Major, 2000). Once infected with JCV the virus is harbored for life with generally no adverse consequences. In a minority of immunosuppressed patients the virus gains access to the CNS and targets both oligodendrocytes and astrocytes. Lytic viral replication in oligodendrocytes results in a rapidly progressing and uniformly fatal demeyelinating disease known as Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML). Approximately 4–5% of AIDS patients develop PML and the majority succumb to the disease within one to two years of diagnosis. To date there is no specific therapy that has been successful in the treatment of PML. There are several major unresolved issues regarding the interactions of JCV with its host under both normal and immunosuppressed conditions. First, the mode of virus transmission is not completely understood but almost certainly involves direct human-tohuman transmission by a fecal oral route. The fecal oral route of transmission is suggested by the fact that virus is excreted in the urine and is a common contaminant in untreated urban sewage (Bofill-Mas et al, 2000, 2001). Virus has also been frequently detected in tonsillar tissue suggesting that transmission may also occur by a respiratory route (Lisignoli et al, 1997; Monaco et al, 1996, 1998). It should be noted here that poliovirus was once frequently detected in human tonsil despite clear evidence for fecal oral transmission of this virus. Second, the sites of viral persistence have not been unequivocally identified. The kidney is one site of obvious viral persistence as virus is frequently shed in the urine (Arthur et al,
Enhancing light extraction in top-emitting organic light-emitting devices using molded transparent polymer microlens arrays.

Abstract The light extraction efficiency in organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs) is enhanced by up to 2.6 times when a close-packed, hemispherical transparent polymer microlens array (MLA) is molded on the light-emitting surface of a top-emitting device. The microlens array helps to extract the waveguided optical emission in the organic layers and the transparent top electrode, and can be manufactured in large area with low cost.
Multidisciplinary approach for the treatment of diabetes in the elderly

Elderly patients living with diabetes are a highly heterogeneous population with unique care needs. Unlike younger patients, elderly patients may experience an atypical presentation and nontraditional complications of diabetes. Diabetes management and education require greater individualization in elderly adults because of differences in goals of care, risks and benefits of intensive treatment and abilities to practically carry out care regimens. A multidisciplinary approach to diabetes care requires an in-depth knowledge of diabetes, an awareness of geriatric issues and access to decision and educational support. This approach may be the most successful way of delivering individualized diabetes care. Future trials of diabetes care innovations in the elderly will be required to confirm the clinical benefits of this approach.
A DSP-based microwave landing system (MLS) post-IF processor

The authors describe the digital signal processor (DSP)-based implementation of the microwave landing system's (MLS's) post-IF processing functions. An MLS overview, the DSP-based post-IF processing module and MLS post-IF processing algorithms are discussed. All MLS post-IF processing functions, including carrier acquisition, differential phase shift keying (DPSK) demodulation and synchronization, data decoding and scanning beam processing are implemented in a single DSP, Analog Devices' ADSP2100A. An input signal sampling rate of 25 Ks/sec is accommodated by using decimating filters, a modified fast Fourier transform algorithm, and by setting up a direct memory access between the analog-to-digital (A/D) converter and memory. >
Stiff and electrically conductive composites of carbon nanotube aerogels and polymers

Many challenges remain in the effort to realize the exceptional mechanical and electrical properties of carbon nanotubes in composite materials. Here, we report on highly electrically conductive and mechanically stiff composites of polymers and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT). Conductive SWNT-based nanofoams (aerogels) are used as scaffolds to create polymer [poly(dimethylsiloxane)] composites. The resulting composites possess electrical conductivities over 1 S cm−1 and exhibit an ∼300% increase in the elastic modulus with as little as 1 vol% nanotube content.
Molecular analysis of the interaction of LCMV with its cellular receptor α-dystroglycan

α-Dystroglycan (DG) has been identified as the cellular receptor for lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) and Lassa fever virus (LFV). This subunit of DG is a highly versatile cell surface molecule that provides a molecular link between the extracellular matrix (ECM) and a β-DG transmembrane component, which interacts with the actin-based cytoskeleton. In addition, DG exhibits a complex pattern of interaction with a wide variety of ECM and cellular proteins. In the present study, we characterized the binding of LCMV to α-DG and addressed the role of α-DG–associated host-derived proteins in virus infection. We found that the COOH-terminal region of α-DG's first globular domain and the NH2-terminal region of the mucin-related structures of α-DG together form the binding site for LCMV. The virus–α-DG binding unlike ECM α-DG interactions was not dependent on divalent cations. Despite such differences in binding, LCMV and laminin-1 use, in part, an overlapping binding site on α-DG, and the ability of an LCMV isolate to compete with laminin-1 for receptor binding is determined by its binding affinity to α-DG. This competition of the virus with ECM molecules for receptor binding likely explains the recently found correlation between the affinity of LCMV binding to α-DG, tissue tropism, and pathological potential. LCMV strains and variants with high binding affinity to α-DG but not low affinity binders are able to infect CD11c+ dendritic cells, which express α-DG at their surface. Infection followed by dysfunction of these antigen-presenting cells contributes to immunosuppression and persistent viral infection in vivo.
Bub1 mediates cell death in response to chromosome missegregation and acts to suppress spontaneous tumorigenesis

The physiological role of the mitotic checkpoint protein Bub1 is unknown. To study this role, we generated a series of mutant mice with a gradient of reduced Bub1 expression using wild-type, hypomorphic, and knockout alleles. Bub1 hypomorphic mice are viable, fertile, and overtly normal despite weakened mitotic checkpoint activity and high percentages of aneuploid cells. Bub1 haploinsufficient mice, which have a milder reduction in Bub1 protein than Bub1 hypomorphic mice, also exhibit reduced checkpoint activity and increased aneuploidy, but to a lesser extent. Although cells from Bub1 hypomorphic and haploinsufficient mice have similar rates of chromosome missegregation, cell death after an aberrant separation decreases dramatically with declining Bub1 levels. Importantly, Bub1 hypomorphic mice are highly susceptible to spontaneous tumors, whereas Bub1 haploinsufficient mice are not. These findings demonstrate that loss of Bub1 below a critical threshold drives spontaneous tumorigenesis and suggest that in addition to ensuring proper chromosome segregation, Bub1 is important for mediating cell death when chromosomes missegregate.
Structural Health Monitoring Using Modular Wireless Sensors

System integration of an online structural health monitoring module was accomplished by coupling commercially available microelectro-mechanical system sensors and a wireless telemetry unit with damage detection firmware. To showcase the capabilities of the integrated monitoring module, a bolted frame structure was constructed, and the preload in one of the bolted joints was controlled by a piezoelectric stack actuator to simulate gradual deterioration of a bolted connection. Two separate damage detection algorithms were used to classify a joint as damaged or undamaged. First, a statistical process control algorithm was used to monitor the correlation of vibration data from two accelerometers mounted across a joint. Changes in correlation were used to detect damage to the joint. For each joint, data were processed locally on a microprocessor integrated with the wireless module, and the diagnosis result was remotely transmitted to the base monitoring station. Second, a more sophisticated damage detection al...
Infrared and Raman Analysis of In-Plane Microtomed Thermoplastic Olefins

The distribution of chemical composition of as-molded thermoplastic elastomers: polyolefinic (TEOs), commonly called TPO, has been studied. Fifty in-plane sections, each 10 mu m thick, were microtomed from the surface to a depth of 510 mu m into the sample. These sections were studied by transmission infrared to compare the level of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) at the surface and throughout the 510 mu m thickness. No compositional differences were observed. These same sections were studied by optical microscopy. Birefringent spherulites were observed beginning about 100 mu m into the sample. Deeper into the sample, these spherulites became larger, approaching 20 mu m. Infrared microscopy was used to analyze several 20 mu m by 20 mu m spots on these sections. Still no compositional difference could be found. A Raman microprobe using a 2 mu m diameter sampling spot was also used to analyze these sections. Once again no compositional differences in the amount of PP and PE were observed at the surface as compared to 500 mu m into the sample.
Changes in body temperature influence the scaling of and aerobic scope in mammals

Debate on the mechanism(s) responsible for the scaling of metabolic rate with body size in mammals has focused on why the maximum metabolic rate () appears to scale more steeply with body size than...
Sediment denitrifier community composition and nirS gene expression investigated with functional gene microarrays

Summary A functional gene microarray was used to investigate denitrifier community composition and nitrite reductase (nirS) gene expression in sediments along the estuarine gradient in Chesapeake Bay, USA. The nirS oligonucleotide probe set was designed to represent a sequence database containing 539 Chesapeake Bay clones, as well as sequences from many other environments. Greatest nirS diversity was detected at the freshwater station at the head of the bay and least diversity at the higher salinity station near the mouth of the Bay. The most common OTUs from the sequence database were detected on the array with high signal strength in most samples. One of the most abundant OTUs, CB2-S-138, was identified as dominant at the mid-bay site by both microarray and quantitative PCR assays, but it comprised a much smaller fraction of the assemblage in the north and south bay samples. cDNA (transcribed from total RNA extracts) targets were hybridized to the same array to compare the profiles of community composition at the DNA (relative abundance) and mRNA (gene expression) levels. Only the three dominant denitrifying groups (in terms of relative strength of DNA hybridization signal) were detected at the mRNA level. These results suggest that the most actively denitrifying groups are responsible for most nirS expression as well.
Rapid, gregarious settlement of the larvae of the marine echiuran Urechis caupo Fisher & MacGinitie 1928

Abstract Larvae of Urechis caupo Fisher & MacGinitie, reared in the laboratory, were exposed to potential settlement stimuli, including natural sediment from adult burrows, and “scent” obtained from the skin of adult animals. Competent larvae settled rapidly and specifically in response to adult burrow sediment when compared with their responses to other natural and abiotic sediments. Larvae also responded specifically to chemical “scent” from adult animals when the “scent” of another echiuran worm, Listriolobus pelodes Fisher served as a control. Larval responses to chemical “scent” were as great as their responses to natural burrow sediment. Hence, it is likely that larvae settle gregariously in nature in response to “scent” on sediment grains of adult burrows. The chemical “scent” had a molecular weight between ≈3500 and 14000 daltons, as determined by dialysis. It quickly lost its effectiveness in promoting settlement after it was heated to 80 °C, but was relatively stable at ambient ocean temperatures, retaining its effectiveness for several days. It was soluble in sea water. However, larvae did not respond to the chemical “scent”, unless it was adsorbed onto a surface. Purely tactile stimuli, such as the shape, texture, and size-distribution of particles, were not important settlement cues during these experiments.
Sum Aggregation in Sensor Networks While Preserving Confidentiality and Integrity

In some sensor network environments there is a need to protect the privacy of the individual readings as well as to ensure the integrity of the aggregated result. Many prior solutions have proposed schemes that protect either privacy or integrity, but very little work has been done on achieving both goals. In this paper, we extend a previously defined splitting scheme to provide privacy and integrity when computing the SUM aggregate. The scheme that we present achieves a usable level of privacy and integrity for the sum aggregation and does not require the usage of expensive cryptography. We also experimentally demonstrate the effectiveness of our techniques.
Deficits in sustained attention and changes in dopaminergic protein levels following exposure to proton radiation are related to basal dopaminergic function

The current report assessed the effects of low-level proton irradiation in inbred adult male Fischer 344 and Lewis rats performing an analog of the human Psychomotor Vigilance Test (PVT), commonly utilized as an object risk assessment tool to quantify fatigue and sustained attention in laboratory, clinical, and operational settings. These strains were used to determine if genetic differences in dopaminergic function would impact radiation-induced deficits in sustained attention. Exposure to head-only proton irradiation (25 or 100 cGy) disrupted rPVT performance in a strain-specific manner, with 25 cGy-exposed Fischer 344 rats displaying the most severe deficits in sustained attention (i.e., decreased accuracy and increased premature responding); Lewis rats did not display behavioral deficits following radiation. Fischer 344 rats displayed greater tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine transporter levels in the frontal cortex compared to the Lewis rats, even though radiation exposure increased both of these proteins in the Lewis rats only. Tyrosine hydroxylase was decreased in the parietal cortex of both rat strains following radiation exposure, regardless of proton dose. Strain-specific cytokine changes were also found in the frontal cortex, with the Lewis rats displaying increased levels of putative neurotrophic cytokines (e.g., CNTF). These data support the hypothesis that basal dopaminergic function impacts the severity of radiation-induced deficits in sustained attention.
Evidence Matters Fall 2013

The feature article, “Aging in Place: Facilitating Choice and Independence,” reviews the trends underpinning the issue and looks at the federal, state, and local programs and policies for the elderly that are accommodating a shift away from institutional living and toward aging in place with supports. The Research Spotlight article, “Measuring the Costs and Savings of Aging in Place,” examines efforts to measure the potential health cost savings (as well as improvements in well-being) to families and the government when individuals are able to age in their homes with assistance, reinforcing the argument that housing matters. Finally, grassroots efforts to aid the elderly in their communities and provide practical solutions for the supportive services necessary to age in place are examined in the In Practice article, “Community-Centered Solutions for Aging at Home.” Readers may find that the issues involved in creating aging-friendly communities have much in common with the issues involved in building livable communities, such as the role that density and transit systems can play in providing access to neighborhood amenities.
“Stick With Yourselves; It’s What’s Normal”: The Intergroup Racial Attitudes of Senior, White, Fraternity Men

AbstractSubstantive cross-racial interaction on college campuses has been known to have positive effects on student learning and development (Chang, Astin, & Kim, 2004). However, literature shows that students from different minoritized racial groups often remain separated from majority White groups, such as fraternities, thus prohibiting each group to realize the benefits such interaction could offer (Sidanius, Laar, Levin, & Sinclair, 2004). Utilizing focus group methods, this study investigated the racial attitudes of 20 senior, White, Interfraternity Council men in order to better show how the fraternity culture and experience influence the racial attitudes of members. This study found four themes that help illuminate how racist attitudes are formed and reproduced in these organizations. The implications of this study are useful for student affairs professionals concerned with the ways in which racial dynamics on predominantly White campuses affect the campus climate for diversity and the character de...
Abstract 17080: Low Peripheral Pulse Pressure During Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients is a Predictor of Persistent Systolic Dysfunction

Background: Peripheral pulse pressure ( PPP) is routinely measured during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, little is known about the correlation between PPP and systolic function. We sought to determine the prognostic value of PPP for predicting long-term systolic function in patients with ST- Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI). Methods: Patients with acute STEMI without previous history of heart failure (N=241) who underwent primary PCI were studied retrospectively. PPP was measured at the time of primary PCI using standard sphygmomanometer. Patients were divided into tertiles according to PPP. Patients in the lowest tertile (Group A, PP<49 mmHg, n=88) were compared with the remainder of the cohort (Group B, n=153). Systolic function was assessed using 2D transthoracic echocardiogram within a week of primary PCI (n=234) and at follow up (n=132). Systolic dysfunction was defined as ejection fraction (EF) < 40%. Results: In our study population, (mean age 57 ±12 years, male 66%) there was a high prevalence of smoking (70%), Hyperlipidemia (76 %), Hypertension (77%) and, Diabetes (34%). Mean EF for the entire cohort at admission was 49±13%. Patient in Group A had significantly lower mean EF compared with group B at admission (45% vs. 51%) and follow up (48% vs. 53%) ( p<0.05 for both). On follow up at a median of 148 days (IQR 73-486 days), 24 of 132 patients had persistent systolic dysfunction. Group A were significantly more likely to have persistent systolic dysfunction with adjusted (Age, sex, BMI, HTN, HLD, DM, smoking, CKD, medications) OR of 4.06 (1.2-12.8) respectively (p=0.017). Conclusion: Low PPP at the time of primary PCI is associated with increased risk of persistent systolic dysfunction in patients with STEMI.
AFLATOXIN PRODUCTION IN REGULAR AND DECAFFEINATED COFFEE BEANS

The production of aflatoxin B1 and G1 in regular and decaffeinated coffee beans (green and roasted) inoculated with Aspergillus parasiticus was examined to determine the effect of decaffeination on aflatoxigenic potential. Aflatoxins were not detected in either the inoculated green or roasted regular beans. Small amounts of aflatoxin (0.30 μ/g) were detected in roasted decaffeinated samples, while high levels of aflatoxins (up to 60 μ/g) were detected in green decaffeinated samples. A sample of commercially decaffeinated green coffee beans was also found to support the production of aflatoxin. The data indicate that extra precaution should be employed to assure the safety of decaffeinated coffees.
Autoionization in xenon

Autoionization in rare gases has been studied for over fifty years. The broad asymmetric lines observed by Beutler prompted theoretical work by Fano1 in which the now commonly recognized Beutler-Fano line profile was derived. More recently, series perturbations and autoionization in the rare gases have been a major driving force for development and application of multichannel quantum defect theory (MQDT). Unfortunately, the experimental data to date have been limited almost exclusively to the odd-parity J = 1 levels which can be reached via photoabsorption from the ground state. The techniques of laser spectroscopy, starting from metastable levels in the rare gases, can provide access to a wealth of previously undetected states.
Abstract 343: Association Between Electrocardiographic Parameters and Coronary Atherosclerotic Burden in Symptomatic Patients Without History of Coronary Artery Disease

Introduction: Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) and the electrocardiogram (ECG) are tests available in the evaluation and risk stratification of coronary heart disease risk. The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between conduction abnormalities detected by ECG and coronary atherosclerotic burden determined by CACS in symptomatic patients with no history of coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of 843 consecutive patients without history of CAD who presented with chest pain to our emergency department. All patients were evaluated with ECG and CACS by MDCT. The cohort was categorized into 4 groups: CACS 0, 1-100, 101-400, and >400. PR prolongation was defined as PR interval >200 ms. QTc prolongation was defined as normal ( 440ms). Other ECG parameters evaluated include bundle branch blocks (BBB), ST segment changes, and T wave abnormalities. Results: The cohort had a mean age of 54 ± 13 years and 44% were male. Median Framingham 10-year risk for cardiovascular disease was 5% (Interquartile range; IQR 1% - 16%). 59% of the cohort had CACS 0; 22.7% (CACS 1-100), 9.5% (CACs 101-400) and 8.8% (CACS >400). PR prolongation was present in 5% of the cohort. 66% had normal QTc and 34% had prolonged QTc - mild (180), moderate-to-severe (105). In multivariate analysis adjusted for Framingham risk, PR prolongation was independently associated with presence (OR 3.22; 95%CI 1.08, 1.12; p 400) of coronary calcification (OR 2.51; 95%CI 1.10, 5.75; p=0.03). Similarly, QTc prolongation was independently associated with presence (mild: OR 1.01; 95%CI 0.70, 1.46; p=0.96, moderate-to-severe: OR 1.64; 95%CI 1.05, 2.56; p=0.03) and severity (CACS>100) of coronary calcification (mild: OR 1.66; 95%CI 1.10, 2.53; p=0.02, moderate-to-severe: OR 2.05; 95%CI 1.26, 3.35; p=0.004). BBB (3.6%), ST segment changes (11.9%), and T wave abnormalities (22.7%) were not associated with the presence or extent of coronary calcification. Conclusion: In patients without history of CAD, PR and QTc prolongation were independently associated with presence and severity of coronary atherosclerotic burden detected by CACS, while BBB, ST segment and T wave changes were not.
Optimal Therapy for the Distal Ureteral Stone: Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy Versus Ureteroscopy

AbstractExtracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL‡‡Dornier Medical Systems, Inc., Marietta, Georgia.) is the optimal therapy for renal calculi less than 2cm. in diameter and for proximal ureteral calculi. Controversy continues over the initial approach to distal ureteral calculi (that is below the bony pelvis): in situ ESWL versus ureteroscopy. Since February 1990, 76 distal ureteral calculi were treated at our institution using either in situ ESWL (Dornier HM3 ESWL with a Stryker frame modification in 27 patients or Siemen’s Lithostar electromagnetic ESWL in 22) or ureteroscopy (27 patients). Patient age and stone size were similar among the groups. All ESWL treatments were performed with the patient under intravenous sedation and on an outpatient basis. Stone-free rates were 96% for the HM3 device, 84% for the Lithostar and 100% for ureteroscopy. Retreatment was required in 3 Lithostar cases (14%) and 1 HM3 case (4%). When compared to ESWL ureteroscopy for distal ureteral stones was more time-consumin...
Experimental investigation of mechanical behavior of assembled compound periphery structure subjected to blast loads

To investigate the mechanical behaviours of the assembled compound periphery structure under dynamic loads,their scale models were loaded in the nuclear explosion pressure simulation hole.There were two types of scale models with different joint styles.Results of the four test models were presented.The shape of shock wave and the strain histories on the surfaces of steel plate(counterfort column) or concrete are obtained,which agrees with the one-way thick plate theory analysis results.Dynamical characteristics and failure modes of different test models were observed and analysed.It is validated that both the steel plate joints and the counterfort column joints are feasible under the designed shock wave load.It is also proved that the steel plate joints are more ductile than the counterfort column joints as well as better dynamic performance subjected to blast wave.
Lower mean heart dose with deep inspiration breath hold-whole breast irradiation compared with brachytherapy-based accelerated partial breast irradiation for women with left-sided tumors.

Abstract Purpose For left-sided breast cancer, radiation to the heart is a concern. We present a comparison of mean heart and coronary artery biologically effective dose (BED) between accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) and whole breast irradiation with deep inspiration breath-hold technique (DIBH-WBI). Methods and materials A total of 100 patients with left-sided, early-stage breast cancer were identified. Fifty underwent single-entry catheter-based APBI and 50 underwent DIBH-WBI. The heart, left anterior descending/interventricular branch, left main, and right coronary artery were delineated. BEDs were calculated from APBI treatment plans (34 Gy in 3.4 Gy twice daily fractions) and for 4 separate plans generated for each DIBH-WBI patient: 50 Gy in 25 fractions (50/25), 50/25 + 10/5 boost, 40/15, and 40/15 + 10/5 boost. Results BED to the heart and coronary vessels were statistically significantly higher with APBI than with any of the DIBH-WBI dose/fractionation schedules. Conclusions For women with left-sided early-stage breast cancer, DIBH-WBI resulted in statistically significantly lower mean BED to the heart and coronary vessels compared with APBI. This is likely due to increased physical separation between the heart and tumor bed afforded by the DIBH-WBI technique. Long-term assessment of late effects in these tissues will be required to determine whether these differences are clinically significant.
The War on Marijuana in Black and White

This report is the first to examine marijuana possession arrest rates by race for all 50 states (and the District of Columbia) and their respective counties from 2001 to 2010. The report relies on the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program and the United States Census’ annual county population estimates to document arrest rates by race per 100,000 for marijuana possession. The report finds that between 2001 and 2010, there were over 8 million marijuana arrests in the United States, 88% of which were for possession. Marijuana arrests have increased between 2001 and 2010 and now account for over half (52%) of all drug arrests in the United States, and marijuana possession arrests account for nearly half (46%) of all drug arrests. In 2010, there was one marijuana arrest every 37 seconds, and states spent combined over $3.6 billion enforcing marijuana possession laws.The report also finds that, on average, a Black person is 3.73 times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than a white person, even though Blacks and whites use marijuana at similar rates. Such racial disparities in marijuana possession arrests exist in all regions of the country, in counties large and small, urban and rural, wealthy and poor, and with large and small Black populations. Indeed, in over 96% of counties with more than 30,000 people in which at least 2% of the residents are Black, Blacks are arrested at higher rates than whites for marijuana possession.
A Practical Approach to Controlling the Back-to-Back Voltage Source Converter System

This paper presents a new approach for the modeling and dynamic control of the back-to-back systems which are based on voltage source converters. The state-space average method is used to derive the non-linear model of the system. Through a non-linear transformation and power balance fact a linear model for the system is developed. It is shown that DC link of the system can be regulated only from the supplier side and not from both sides which is adopted to the new market structure in the liberalized power systems and the mathematical approach is given. The decoupled controller is designed based on the state feedback method and the proposed model is validated through the comparison of the average and switching model simulations. The system performance is studied under different normal and fault cases.
Increased dopamine receptor expression and anti-depressant response following deep brain stimulation of the medial forebrain bundle.

Abstract Background Among several potential neuroanatomical targets pursued for deep brain stimulation (DBS) for treating those with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), the superolateral-branch of the medial forebrain bundle (MFB) is emerging as a privileged location. We investigated the antidepressant-like phenotypic and chemical changes associated with reward-processing dopaminergic systems in rat brains after MFB-DBS. Methods Male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: sham-operated, DBS-Off, and DBS-On. For DBS, a concentric bipolar electrode was stereotactically implanted into the right MFB. Exploratory activity and depression-like behavior were evaluated using the open-field and forced-swimming test (FST), respectively. MFB-DBS effects on the dopaminergic system were evaluated using immunoblotting for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), dopamine transporter (DAT), and dopamine receptors (D1-D5), and high-performance liquid chromatography for quantifying dopamine, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), and homovanillic acid (HVA) in brain homogenates of prefrontal cortex (PFC), hippocampus, amygdala, and nucleus accumbens (NAc). Results Animals receiving MFB-DBS showed a significant increase in swimming time without alterations in locomotor activity, relative to the DBS-Off ( p p Limitations This study was not performed on an animal model of TRD. Conclusion MFB-DBS rescues the depression-like phenotypes and selectively activates expression of dopamine receptors in brain regions distant from the target area of stimulation.
Author’s reply to Welch

I agree with Welch’s comments about the art of medicine.12 I would add that there are accepted formats for conducting and reporting quality improvement work. Not only are the methods field tested, standardised, and publicly available, …
P271 False positive HLA antibody tests can lose organ offers

Aim The accuracy of HLA antibody testing is very important for entering UNOS Unacceptable donor antigens, evaluating organ offers by virtual and prospective crossmatch, and evaluating donor specific antibodies (DSAs) pre and post transplant. It is known that the Single Antigen Bead (SAB) assay can have HLA antibody false positives reactions, due to the exposure of cryptic, non HLA antigens, during the manufacturing process. This study was to determine the SAB false positive rate in our testing and evaluate how two other HLA antibody assays, FlowPRA Screen and LSPRA (phenotype bead), can help to improve the accuracy, by confirming or ruling out false positive SAB antibodies. Methods A Jan-March 2017 sample set of pre and post transplant patients with SAB HLA antibodies and LSPRA and/or FlowPRA confirmatory testing, was obtained from our HLA database. The three assays were compared to determine SAB false positive rate and how to improve the accuracy of this assay. Results Of 20 patients with SAB HLA antibodies, CPRA 10–99%, which also had a confirmatory LSPRA test, 95% (19) had one or more SAB false positive HLA antibodies. The number of false positive patient SAB antibodies ranged from 1 to 14, with a median of 3, MFI 900–3000. In 60% (12) of the patients, all of the SAB identified antibodies were all false positive, ranging from 1 to 14, with a median of 3. In 40% (8) of the patients, the LSPRA assay was able to confirm SAB HLA antibodies ranging from 1 to 20, with a median of 4. Conclusions It is unacceptable that alone, a SAB assay will result in about 3 false positive antibodies in 95% of patients who have HLA antibodies. The SAB assay is a very important test, but unless other testing platforms, like Phenotype beads and FlowPRA screen, are used to identify the false positive antibodies, the SAB assay will lose lifesaving organ offers for our patients or trigger unnecessary DSA treatments post transplant.
Imaging of Breast Implant-associated Complications and Pathologic Conditions: Breast Imaging.

An understanding of the types of breast augmentation and possible complications is critical to providing appropriate care to patients and ensuring proper management.
Public perceptions of carbon capture and storage in Canada: Results of a national survey

Abstract Carbon dioxide capture and geological storage (CCS) is one strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that has attracted interest from government and industry in Canada. A key factor that will determine if organizations implement CCS is whether the public support the development of the technology. Public views and understandings of key issues surrounding CCS were assessed via Internet and phone on a representative sample of 1479 Canadians. We examined descriptive statistics to understand public perceptions of CCS and applied regression models to assess how risk perceptions, perspectives of climate change and trust in government relate to the support for or opposition to CCS development and funding for the technology. Results indicate there is low support for CCS in Canada; however, findings varied when taking into account participants’ proximity to projects. Furthermore, the publics’ perceptions of the risk and benefits of CCS influenced support for or opposition to the technology. We discuss implications of public perceptions on the development and deployment of CCS and provide recommendations for communication strategies about the technology.