cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Initiation of Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy in Children with Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract Objectives (1) To determine factors associated with physical therapy (PT) or occupational therapy (OT) evaluation and speech or swallow therapy evaluation in hospitalized children with traumatic brain injury (TBI); (2) to describe when during the hospital stay the initial therapy evaluations typically occur; and (3) to quantify any between-hospital variation in therapy evaluation. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Children's hospitals participating in the Pediatric Health Information System database (January 2001–June 2011). Participants Children (age Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures PT or OT evaluation and speech or swallow therapy evaluation. A propensity score was calculated to allow comparison of expected with observed rates of therapy evaluations by the hospital. Results The median hospital length of stay was 5 days (interquartile range, 3–10d). Overall, 8748 (41%) of 21,399 children received either a PT or OT evaluation, and 5490 (26%) out of 21,399 children received either a speech or swallow evaluation. Older children and those with higher energy injury mechanisms, more severe injuries, extremity fractures, more treatment with neuromuscular blocking agents or pentobarbital, and admission to a hospital with an American College of Surgeons Level I pediatric trauma designation were more likely to receive therapy evaluations. The median time until the first therapy evaluation was 5 (PT or OT) and 7 days (speech or swallow). Expected hospital evaluation rates were 25% to 54% (PT or OT) and 16% to 35% (speech or swallow), while observed hospital evaluation rates were 11% to 74% (PT or OT) and 4% to 55% (speech or swallow). Conclusions There is wide between-hospital variation in provision of rehabilitation therapies for children with TBI. Evidence-based criteria for initiation of routine therapy evaluations after TBI are needed.
Block Copolymers by Transformation of “Living” Carbocationic into “Living” Radical Polymerization

This communication reports that polystyrene with chlorine termini synthesized by living cationic polymerization without any transformation is an efficient macroinitiator for living atom transfer radical polymerization of styrene and (meth)acrylates
On effective minimax payoffs and unequal discounting

Abstract We show that the folk theorem in Wen [Q. Wen (1994), The “Folk Theorem” for repeated games with complete information, Econometrica, 62, 949–954.] may not fully characterize the subgame perfect equilibrium payoff set in a repeated game with unequal discounting, where a player's equilibrium payoff could be strictly less than her effective minimax payoff.
Differences in Ethical Beliefs, Intentions, and Behaviors The Role of Beliefs and Intentions in Ethics Research Revisited

Using the Ajzen's Theory of Planned Behavior and Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development, we look at individual beliefs (What should I do?), intention (What would I do?), and actual behaviors (What did I do?) and the rationale used in each instance. Ten of twelve hypotheses are strongly supported and two are moderately supported. This data set shows that significant differences exist between belief and action, belief and intention, and intention and action and the rationales used to support belief, intention, and action differ from one another. Implications for academic research and managerial practice are discussed and research limitations are examined.
Time dependence of switching oxide traps

Metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) were irradiated and then annealed under alternating positive and negative bias. The magnitude of the reversible trapped-oxide charge component decayed over the course of several cycles (of 3/spl times/10/sup 3/ s each) in one of two processes studied. The HDL hole trap model is shown to explain these and other recent results. >
On the convergence of random search algorithms in continuous time with applications to adaptive control

The use of a gradient search algorithm for the computation of the minimum of a function is well understood. In particular, in continuous time, the algorithm can be formulated as a differential equation whose equilibrium solution is a local minimum of the function. Khas'minskii has proposed using the continuous gradient algorithm with a white-noise driving term. He shows, using an argument on the convergence of the probability density function, that the equilibrium solution of this differential equation is the global minimum of the function. This paper reviews that result from the point of view of the theory of diffusion processes. It is shown that the conclusion of Khas'minskii is not correct, and that in fact the operation of the stochastic gradient search is the same as the operation of the noise-free gradient search. In fact, the search with noise converges with probability one to any of the local minima in the same way as the noise-free search converges to a local minimum. Several stochastic adaptive control systems use random search algorithms for their operation. One of these, due to Barron, is analyzed to show that it meets the conditions for convergence imposed by the results which have been derived here.
Revealed preferences in macroeconomic policy decisions

Abstract This paper extends the usual instrument-target framework by directly estimating macroeconomic policy preferences over a number of policy targets using a derived reduced form and then solving the nonlinear optimality conditions for optimal instrument choice. Solving the optimality equations using observations on predetermined variables yields the implicit set of preference weights which induced the observed choices. The derivation format parallels the integrability discussions about consumer preferences implicitly expressed through demand functions. The approach is applied to a simple macro model estimated over the period from 1955 through 1972.
Chestwall resection: a new and simple method for stabilization of extended defects.

Objective: Postresectional chestwall defects can usually be stabilized by reconstructions under tension. Only few extended defects require combined stabilizing methods. The one used mostly is Marlex w -Sandwich, despite some disadvantages. An alternative method using alloplastic material/metal bar is presented. Material and methods: Between 1986 and 1999, 189 chestwall resections were performed either for infiltrating bronchogenic carcinoma (Type I, n ¼ 67), tumors originating from chestwall or bony metastases (Type II, n ¼ 88), or local recurrences and infiltration by breast cancer or sequelae of its treatment (Type III, n ¼ 34).The standard reconstruction is performed with non-absorbable alloplastic meshes or patches under some degree of tension. For defects exceeding 250 cm 2 , usually Type-II cases, a reconstruction under tension is no longer appropriate. Therefore we developed a procedure which we used in six cases. Alloplastic mesh or patch gets sutured in the same way as is done in smaller defects. Then a metal bar (Grob-Stab w , Ulrich, Herrlingen/Blaustein, Germany) is threaded through the alloplastic material and is fixed at the adjacent ribs by Parham steel bands (Ethicon, Sommerville, KY, USA). Results: In all cases we achieved excellent stability. All of the patients were extubated on the operating table. There was no morbidity or mortality. In three cases the metal bars were removed after 3, 6 and 16 months postoperatively (dynamization). Conclusion: The new procedure is safe, simple and quickly performed. The additional costs are low (160 euro). The patient’s comfort is excellent; borderline problems as described for Marlex w -Sandwich can be avoided, so that this procedure can be considered as an alternative to Marlex w -Sandwich. q 2001 Elsevier
Cryopreservation of Channel Catfish Sperm: Storage in Cryoprotectants, Fertilization Trials, and Growth of Channel Catfish Produced with Cryopreserved Sperm

Abstract We developed methods for cryopreserving sperm of channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus and evaluated the use of cryopreserved sperm for reproduction. Five cryoprotectants were evaluated: Methanol, glycerol, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), sucrose, and polyvinylpyrrolidone. We measured the motility of sperm that had been stored at 4°C in three concentrations of cryoprotectants (5%, 10%, 15%) dissolved in a modified Hank's balanced salt solution. All cryoprotectants reduced motility within 6 h; 5% methanol and 5% DMSO caused the smallest reduction. After sperm were frozen at –80°C and stored for 2 d at –196°C, motility was highest (5–10%) in samples cryopreserved with 5% and 10% solutions of methanol. Sperm cells cryopreserved in methanol solutions (5%, 10%, and 15%) were used to fertilize channel catfish eggs from three females. Fertilization ranged from 24% to 97%, and no difference in fertilization success was found between cryopreserved sperm and untreated sperm from the same males. Growth of channel ...
Palliative care: Past, present, and future perspectives

Objectives : To provide a review of the development and impact of palliative care; to discuss quality of life as a framework for guiding clinical practice and research in palliative care; and to identify future trends that are likely to affect palliative care services. Data Sources : Research studies, review articles, and book chapters. Conclusions : Palliative care is in the process of dynamic change. Advocates of palliative care are suggesting that cost-effective holistic care strategies should be available to patients and families throughout the illness trajectory, not just reserved for end of life care. Implications for Nursing Practice : Incorporation of palliative care principles across the cancer illness trajectory requires an attitude shift by all members of the multidisciplinary team.
Targeting the Peripheral Inflammatory Response to Stroke: Role of the Spleen

The migration of immune cells into the stroke-damaged brain has been reported for decades [1, 2] but its relationship to neurodegeneration is still not completely understood. Cells of the innate immune system are among the first immune cells to extravasate along with the adaptive immune cells infiltrating at later time points [3]. The inflammatory response elicited from these immune cells directly exacerbates the neurodegeneration in the ischemic area as well as indirectly by activating microglia [4]. This observation has led to the use of antiinflammatory therapies in stroke treatment. One problem with this approach is the potentiation of the post-stroke immune suppression, which leads to increased infection rates [5]. The clinical trial evaluating anti-ICAM-1 therapy is an example of this issue in which one of the adverse events was increased incidence of pneumonia in the treatment group [6]. Thus, therapies that are more selective or targeted at the neurodegenerative response by the immune system could be administered to inhibit further damage with minimal contribution to the post-stroke immune suppression.
Suppurative candidiasis: review of the literature and report of case

Literature on suppurative candidiasis is reviewed and the diagnosis of the condition and the treatment of a 22-year-old man with such an infection are described. A submasseteric abscess and associated osteomyelitis of the mandibular ramus failed to respond to conventional treatment. Results of repeated cultures showed the causative organism to be Candida albicans . Treatment consisted of surgical drainage, irrigation, and use of a new antifungal drug.
Alkali Pretreatment of Rice Straw for Increasing the Biodegradability

Biofuel production from lignocellulosic biomass such as rice straw becomes increasingly important in light of the needs for alternative fuels, sustainable economy, and environmental mitigation. This research is aimed at the development of new pretreatment technologies that will enable faster and more efficient degradation and conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into biofuel and other valuable products. Laboratory experiments were performed to investigate the pretreatment of rice straw with three alkali chemicals, including lime (Ca(OH)2), sodium hydroxide (NaOH), and potassium hydroxide (KOH). Orthogonal experimental design was used to determine the effects of three key factors (alkali chemical, alkali loading and temperature) that influence the pretreatment efficiencies. Alkali loading was tested at 2%, 6%, and 10% levels (based on dry biomass), and temperature was 20, 35, and 50°C. The treatment time was 24 hours. The lignin removal, solids and sugar loss from the rice straw as a result of alkali pretreatment were measured. The pretreated straw was evaluated for biodegradability using enzymatic hydrolysis and anaerobic digestion. The results showed that NaOH treatment at 20°C and with 10% chemical loading achieved the highest lignin removal of 35%. Statistical analysis showed that NaOH was the most effective chemical for lignin removal. Temperature ranging from 20°C to 50°C had no significant effect on lignin removal. With 23 day anaerobic digestion at mesophilic temperature of 35°C, rice straw pretreated with 10% NaOH at 20°C for 24 hours had the biogas yield of 0.6 L /g VS, 50% higher than the biogas yield from untreated straw. After enzymatic hydrolysis using cellulase from Trichoderma reesei ATCC 26921 and cellobiase from Aspergillus niger, the pretreated straw had the reducing sugar yield of 298 mg glucose/g VS, 185% higher than the untreated straw.
`It's just a process': questioning in the construction of a university crisis

Questioning in an organizational context is a challenging event in multiple senses. Questioning may be used to criticize the leaders of an organization. For the criticisms to be heard as legitimate, however, the questioner must operate within contextual constraints (Shotter, 1993). The main purpose of this article is to examine how questioning functions to construct a university's crisis. Discourse within two faculty senate meetings is analyzed. Three faculty questioning strategies are described: appealing to another organizational entity, requesting either/or information; and metacommunicative commentary. Administration and senate leadership responded to questions using the strategies of appealing to a process and metacommunicative commentary. Faculty questioning functioned to challenge a current course of action while operating from within the organizational guidelines of discourse. Alternatively, leadership responses deferred any substantive change in the course of action. The strategies are related to...
Graphical user interfaces and ease of use: some myths examined

Graphical user interfaces (GUIs) are on their way to becoming the most pervasive interface for desktop systems at least partly because of conventional wisdom about their ease of use. Such an assumption may have been kindled by vendors' claims about the inherent usability of such interfaces although previous research on the productivity gains from GUIs has yielded mixed results. This paper reports the results of a field study of 230 users of a popular GUI, Microsoft Corporation's Windows. The study examined Windows' ease of use—an important factor contributing to eventual productivity. The results indicate that contrary to popular belief GUIs are not universally easy to use—certain types of individuals are likely to find them easier to use than others. Organizational roles and management initiatives can also influence perceptions of ease of use. The findings also suggest that ease of use is enhanced through opportunities for self training rather than traditional, formal training.
Computation Techniques for Intertemporal Allocation of Natural Resources

Application of optimal control theory to applied problems is limited by the difficulty of numerical solutions. Typically, terminal values for the production period, price, or production level have been assumed rather than optimized. The use of an objective functional with explicit discounting gives direct solution values for n, y(t), p(t), and rent (or consumer surplus) for continuous or discrete problems. The method is usable for numerical solutions to problems with linear demand, cost trend, or expropriation risk. It is illustrated with Fisher's widely used discrete problem and with application to parameters representing remaining world oil resources for competitive and monopolistic assumptions.
Inductively-loaded RF MEMS reconfigurable filters

This article presents an inductively loaded radio frequency (RF) microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) reconfigurable filter with spurious suppression implemented using packaged metal-contact switches. Both simulation and measurement results show a two-state, two-pole 5p filter with a tuning range of 17p from 1.06 GHz to 1.23 GHz, an insertion loss of 1.56–2.28 dB and return loss better than 13 dB over the tuning range. The spurious passband response in both states is suppressed below -20 dB. The unloaded Q of the filter changes from 127 to 75 as the filter is tuned from 1.06 GHz to 1.23 GHz. The design and full-wave simulation of a two-bit RF MEMS tunable filter with inductively loaded resonators and monolithic metal-contact MEMS switches is also presented to prove the capability of applying the inductive-loading technique to multibit reconfigurable filters. The simulation results for a two-bit reconfigurable filter show 2.5 times improvement in the tuning range compared with the two-state reconfigurable filter due to lower parasitics associated with monolithic metal-contact MEMS switches in the filter structure. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J RF and Microwave CAE, 2009.
Evidence of a positive relationship between age and preference for consistency

The preference that incoming information be consistent with pre-existing attitudes, cognitions, and beliefs is referred to as the preference for consistency. Based on the assumption that inconsistency is emotionally upsetting, we expected a preference for consistency to be associated with the: (a) experience of emotional upset and (b) motivation to reduce emotional upset. In addition, we expected a preference for consistency to grow with age because avoiding emotional disruption becomes a more salient motivation with increasing age. A study of 269 individuals between 18 and over 80 years of age confirmed these predictions. We conclude that, because of a heightened motive for emotional harmony, older individuals are especially likely to prefer consistent activities, cognitions, and people.
Tribological properties and thermal stability of various types of polyimide films

Thermal exposure experiments at 315 and 350 C were conducted on seven different types of polyimide films to determine which was the most thermally stable and adherent. The polyimides were ranked according to the rate at which they lost weight and how well they adhere to the metallic substrate. Friction and wear experiments were conducted at 25 C (room temperature) on films bonded to 440C HT stainless steel. Friction, film wear rates, wear mechanisms, and transfer films of the seven films were investigated and compared. The polyimides were found to fall into two groups as far as friction and wear properties were concerned. Group one had lower friction but an order of magnitude higher film wear rate than did group two. The wear mechanism was predominately adhesive, but the size of the wear particles were larger for group one polyimides.
GENETIC STUDIES OF VARIATION IN RAYLEIGH AND PHOTOMETRIC MATCHES IN NORMAL TRICHROMATS

Abstract The inheritance of Rayleigh match midpoints and photometric matches (551–667 nm) was studied in observers with normal color vision. An analysis was performed to evaluate whether the measured interobserver variations in these two traits were consistent with single gene allelic variation, polygenic variation, or environmental factors. A bipartite 2 deg field and a computerized tracking method were used to obtain Rayleigh matches; a new photometric technique, termed heterochromatic modulation photometry (HMP), was used to obtain photometric matches. Data were collected from 72 nonrelated males to determine distribution characteristics for the normal population. The distributions were analyzed for evidence of multimodality and the results indicated that the distributions for Rayleigh match midpoints and HMP matches obtained in this study were unimodal and symmetrical. Data from 52 observers from 5 families were used to study the transmission of the two traits in pedigrees. Statistical analysis of the pedigree data suggested that the major source of variations for Rayleigh match midpoints and for HMP matches were each due to allelic variation at single gene loci; that is, each may be determined by a single gene. Results were inconclusive as to whether variation in the two traits could be determined by the same gene.
Testosterone increases acetylcholine receptor number in the “levator ani” muscle of the rat

The "levator ani" muscle of male rats provides a neuromuscular system in which both the muscle and its motoneurons have high levels of androgen receptors. Two weeks of castration caused a 48% loss of acetylcholine receptors in this muscle. One week of testosterone propionate injections initiated on week after castration increased receptor number by 27% over untreated castrate levels. These changes paralleled changes in muscle protein content. In contrast, castration and testosterone treatments of castrates had no effect on total. Triton X-100-extractable acetylcholinesterase activity. This system may provide a useful model of synaptic plasticity.
Conductive polymer composites with double percolated architecture of carbon nanoparticles and ceramic microparticles for high heat dissipation and sharp PTC switching

In classical self-limiting heating devices where conductive polymer composites (CPC) are used, one of the main problems to solve is the stability of properties with time. Different strategies are proposed to stabilize the morphologies during the structuring of these heterogeneous materials. Some of them are well known in the use of co-continuous polymer blends or confinement but the interest of this work is to combine different structuring methods such as volume exclusion, adsorption and multiple percolations to achieve original properties. In fact the CPC developed exhibit enhanced heat dissipation and thermal stability (up to 180 °C), independent adjustability of electrical and thermal conductivity, and a sharp and large amplitude PTC effect. These original results were obtained with a co-continuous structure associating a thermally conductive polymer phase (syndiotactic poly(styrene) (sPS) filled with aluminum oxide (Al2O3) or boron nitride (BN)) with an electrically conductive polymer phase (high-density poly(ethylene)) (hdPE) filled with carbon nanoparticles (CNP) in appropriate proportions.
Clinical Measures and Treatment Needs

Clinically evaluated oral health outcome variables from the ICS-II USA data set were examined in the diverse ethnic groups, for two adult age cohorts (35-44 and 65-74 years). These measures were derived from epidemiological examinations and include the DMFT components, loss of attachment, and an indicator of treatment need-the ratio of decayed teeth over decayed and filled teeth. The ratio of decayed over decayed and filled teeth was used in multivariate analysis, since this measure represents an area where public policy could have an impact if determinants were understood. The most important independent variables were race-ethnicity, educational attainment, no fear of dental visits because of pain, and oral hygiene practices. Having a usual source of dental care and visiting the dentist within the past 12 months did not appear to be as important in predicting unmet needs as these other variables. To bridge the gap between the oral health status of majority and minority populations, health educators in mi...
A Suppressor of Two Essential Checkpoint Genes Identifies a Novel Protein that Negatively Affects dNTP Pools

In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, MEC1 and RAD53 are essential for cell growth and checkpoint function. Their essential role in growth can be bypassed by deletion of a novel gene, SML1, which functions after several genes whose overexpression also suppresses mec1 inviability. In addition, sml1 affects various cellular processes analogous to overproducing the large subunit of ribonucleotide reductase, RNR1. These include effects on mitochondrial biogenesis, on the DNA damage response, and on cell growth. Consistent with these observations, the levels of dNTP pools in sml1 delta strains are increased compared to wild-type. This effect is not due to an increase in RNR transcription. Finally, both in vivo and in vitro experiments show that Sml1 binds to Rnr1. We propose that Sml1 inhibits dNTP synthesis posttranslationally by binding directly to Rnr1 and that Mec1 and Rad53 are required to relieve this inhibition.
Effects of ranitidine bismuth citrate on gastric acid secretion and gastrin release in subjects with and without Helicobacter pylori infection.

Background: Ranitidine bismuth citrate is a novel antiulcerant that provides the antisecretory activity of ranitidine and the gastric mucosal protection and antibacterial properties of bismuth. Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluated the effects of single doses of ranitidine bismuth citrate 200 mg, 400 mg and 800 mg and ranitidine hydrochloride 150 mg on gastrin release and suppression of gastric acid secretion, and compared acid secretory profiles and gastrin release between Helicobacter pylori-negative and-positive patients. Plasma gastrin concentrations were determined by radioimmunoassay under basal conditions and in response to peptone meal stimulation. Acid secretion was measured under basal conditions and in response to peptone meal stimulation. Presence of H. pylori was determined by both 14C-urea breath test and ELISA serology. Results: Inhibition of gastric acid output by ranitidine bismuth citrate was both time- and dose-dependent over the 9-h post-dose study period. Doses of ranitidine bismuth citrate 400 mg and ranitidine hydrochloride 150 mg, which are equimolar, produced similar suppression of acid output regardless of H. pylori status. Ranitidine bismuth citrate had no effect on plasma gastrin concentrations regardless of H. pylori status. All doses of ranitidine bismuth citrate were well tolerated. Conclusions: Ranitidine bismuth citrate caused time-and dose-dependent reductions in meal-stimulated and between-meal gastric acid output regardless of H. pylori status. The magnitude of decreased acid secretion was similar with ranitidine bismuth citrate 400 mg and ranitidine hydrochloride 150 mg. Ranitidine bismuth citrate had no effect on plasma gastrin concentrations.
Routing with bridging nodes for drifting mobility

Drifting with oceanic current forces is an unique mobility pattern for the underwater sensor networks. The different current velocities at the different depth levels and the periodic velocities can impact the three dimensional network deployment greatly over time. One outcome of such impact is the disruption to the network connectivity. In this paper, a routing protocol that utilizes the bridging nodes is introduced to tackle the connectivity problem. The protocol bears features that explore the unique mobility pattern and geological structure to suppress transmission overhead and improve energy efficiency.
Comparing signaling mechanisms engaged in pattern-triggered and effector-triggered immunity

Plants employ two modes of their innate immune system to resist pathogen infection. The first mode of immunity is referred to as pattern-triggered immunity (PTI) that is triggered by molecular patterns common to many types of microbes. The second mode is triggered by recognition of pathogen effectors and is called as effector-triggered immunity (ETI). At least some cases of PTI and ETI extensively share downstream signaling machinery, that is, PTI and ETI appear to be mediated by an integrated signaling network. However, activated immune responses in ETI are more prolonged and robust than those in PTI. Furthermore, network analysis has revealed that synergistic relationships among the signaling sectors are evident in PTI, which may amplify the signal, whereas compensatory relationships among the sectors dominate in ETI, explaining the robustness of ETI against genetic and pathogenic perturbations. Thus, plants seem to use a common signaling network differently in PTI and ETI.
Optimal parallel algorithms for transitive closure and point location in planar structures

We present parallel algorithms for several graph and geometric problems, including transitive closure and topological sorting in planar $st$-graphs, preprocessing planar subdivisions for point location queries, and construction of visibility representations and drawings of planar graphs. Most of these algorithms achieve optimal $O( log n)$ running time with $n / log n$ processors in the EREW PRAM model.
A study of coupled turbulent mixing, soot chemistry, and radiation effects using the linear Eddy model

Transient simulations of strongly radiating, acetylene-air, nonpremixed flames in stationary, homogeneous turbulence are conducted in order to study coupled turbulence, soot chemistry, and radiation interactions. The linear eddy model is used to simulate turbulent advection. A laminar flamelet state relationship combustion model is employed along with two different soot models. The first soot model involves an extension of the laminar flamelet concept to soot using a soot volume fraction state relationship. The second soot model involves transport equations for soot mass fraction and soot number density, which include finite rate source terms to account for soot nucleation, surface growth, agglomeration, and oxidation. Radiation effects are accounted for by including the appropriate source/sink terms in the conservation of energy equation. The effects of a presumed surrounding large scale field which radiates with the spectral properties of soot at an assumed effective temperature are also included. Simulations are conducted for two values of the surrounding temperature and the model large eddy turnover time. The results capture several unique aspects of strongly radiating turbulent flames. In particular, an inflection point in the temperature versus mixture fraction profile is observed near the soot region which highlights the effects of radiative cooling. The large difference between radiation source terms calculated using mean properties and those calculated using instantaneous properties highlights the important interactions between turbulence and radiation.
Periodic structure of spin-transfer current in ferromagnetic multilayers

Abstract We show that the drift-diffusion mechanism in a normal-metal layer in combination with the resonance electron–magnon interactions at ferromagnet-normal interface of F–N–F heterostructure creates spatial instability modes and, out of these modes, a quasi-stable periodic structure of spin-transfer d.c. current can arise with certain channel step and step-to-radius ratio. The ferromagnetic resonance conditions determine spin-transfer current density. Independent nanooscillators creating intersecting arrays of channels can phase-lock on sub-micrometer distance, which depends on multilayer geometry and applied fields. By decreasing the layer thickness, the number of channels affected by each independent d.c.-current source and their radius may be diminished. Phase-locking of multiple independent nanooscillators can be used for enhancement of output power.
The effects of capsaicin on the metabolic activation of heterocyclic amines and on cytochrome P450 1A2 activity in hamster liver microsomes

Capsaicin, the principal component of Capsicum fruits, strongly inhibited the in vitro mutagenic activity of five heterocyclic amines (HCAs) in Salmonella typhimurium strain TA98 by hamster liver microsomes. This correlated with the inhibition of microsome associated demethylation of methoxyresorufin (MROD) by capsaicin. MROD activity is mediated by cytochrome P450 1A2 and CYP450 1A2 mediates the metabolic activation of HCAs. Enzyme kinetics studies indicated a noncompetitive type of inhibition by capsaicin. Liver microsomes prepared from hamsters 6 h and 24 h after administration of a single oral dose of capsaicin in olive oil at either 2 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg body weight expressed a small but statistically significant inhibition of MROD activity compared with microsomes from control (untreated) animals. These results suggest that capsaicin can modulate the activity of cytochrome P450 1A2. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selective plasticization in electroluminescent block copolymers

Abstract Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements of glass transition temperature (Tg) and of changes in heat capacity at Tg have been made on a series of electro-optically active alternating block copolymers of systematically varying hard and soft block structures and of their blends with the plasticizer, 1,12-dibromododecane (DBDD) in order to assess the nature of phase separation in these copolymers.
Ticagrelor versus genotype-driven antiplatelet therapy for secondary prevention after acute coronary syndrome: A cost-effectiveness analysis

Abstract Background Clopidogrel's effectiveness is likely reduced significantly for prevention of thrombotic events after acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in patients exhibiting a decreased ability to metabolize clopidogrel into its active form. A genetic mutation responsible for this reduced effectiveness is detectable by genotyping. Ticagrelor is not dependent on gene-based metabolic activation and demonstrated greater clinical efficacy than clopidogrel in a recent secondary prevention trial. In 2011, clopidogrel will lose its patent protection and likely will be substantially less expensive than ticagrelor. Objective To determine the cost-effectiveness of ticagrelor compared with a genotype-driven selection of antiplatelet agents. Methods A hybrid decision tree/Markov model was used to estimate the 5-year medical costs (in 2009 US$) and outcomes for a cohort of ACS patients enrolled in Medicare receiving either genotype-driven or ticagrelor-only treatment. Outcomes included life years and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained. Data comparing the clinical performance of ticagrelor and clopidogrel were derived from the Platelet Inhibition and Patient Outcomes trial. Results The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for universal ticagrelor was $10,059 per QALY compared to genotype-driven treatment, and was most sensitive to the price of ticagrelor and the hazard ratio for death for ticagrelor compared with clopidogrel. The ICER remained below $50,000 per QALY until a monthly ticagrelor price of $693 or a 0.93 hazard ratio for death for ticagrelor relative to clopidogrel. In probabilistic analyses, universal ticagrelor was below $50,000 per QALY in 97.7% of simulations. Conclusion Prescribing ticagrelor universally increases quality-adjusted life years for ACS patients at a cost below a typically accepted threshold.
Macrophages induce the adhesion phenotype in normal peritoneal fibroblasts.

Objective To determine whether macrophages, exposed to hypoxia, stimulate primary cultures of fibroblasts to acquire the adhesion phenotype. The adhesion phenotype has been previously characterized, in part, by increased fibroblast expression of transforming growth factor (TGF) β1, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and type I collagen. Design Media collected from human macrophages cultured under hypoxic conditions (2% O 2 ) were used to treat human peritoneal fibroblasts. Additionally, human peritoneal fibroblasts were treated with varying concentrations of TGF-β1. Real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis were used to measure mRNA and protein levels, respectively, for select adhesion markers: TGF-β1, VEGF, and, type I collagen. We hypothesized that macrophage secretion, under hypoxic conditions, is responsible for inducing the adhesion phenotype in human peritoneal fibroblasts. Setting University research laboratory. Patient(s) Human macrophages and peritoneal fibroblasts. Intervention(s) Macrophage-fibroblast interaction. Main Outcome Measure(s) Ability of macrophages to induce the adhesion phenotype in human peritoneal fibroblasts. Result(s) Hypoxia treatment resulted in a significant increase in TGF-β1 expression in human macrophages. Additionally, hypoxia treatment resulted in a significant increase in TGF-β1, VEGF, and type I collagen mRNA and protein levels in normal peritoneal fibroblasts compared with normoxic conditions. Similarly, normal peritoneal fibroblasts treated with media collected from macrophages cultured under hypoxic conditions resulted in a significant increase in TGF-β1, VEGF, and type I collagen mRNA and protein levels compared with normal peritoneal fibroblasts treated with media collected from macrophages cultured under normoxic conditions. Additionally, human peritoneal fibroblasts exposed to varying concentrations of TGF-β1 exhibited a dose-dependent response in the expression of TGF-β1, VEGF, and type I collagen. At a low TGF-β1 concentration (12.5 ng TGF-β1/mL medium), TGF-β1, VEGF, and type I collagen were significantly increased. In contrast, at higher TGF-β1 concentrations (25 and 50 ng TGF-β1/mL media), TGF-β1, VEGF, and type I collagen mRNA levels were significantly reduced compared with 12.5 ng TGF-β1/mL medium. Conclusion(s) Human macrophages, cultured under hypoxic conditions, release factors that induce the expression of the adhesion phenotype in normal peritoneal fibroblasts. Particularly, TGF-β1 reproduces this response by regulating the expression of TGF-β1, VEGF, and type I collagen in a dose-dependent manner. Therefore, these findings highlight an important role for human macrophages in peritoneal wound healing.
Two results on spaces with a sharp base

Abstract Example There exists a space X with a sharp base and a perfect mapping f : X → Y onto a space Y which does not have a sharp base. It is known that a spaces with a sharp base have a point-countable sharp base. This can be sharpened to “point-finite” on the set of isolated points. Theorem If X has a sharp base then X has a point-countable sharp base which is point-finite on the set Z of isolated points. (Hence Z is an F σ set.) A topological proof of the previous theorem is given but the theorem follows from a more general combinatorial statement about certain subsets of κ × κ . This last statement is proved using a set-theoretic argument.
Matrix method for finding sets of contiguous non-zero elements in a 2-dimensional array

Abstract We present a matrix method for finding sets of contiguous non-zero elements in a two-dimensional array.
Are “Bath Salts” the next generation of stimulant abuse?

Abstract “Bath salts” are stimulants with high abuse potential that are known to contain agents such as 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone and 4-methylmethcathinone (mephedrone). They are marketed locally and through online retailers as legitimate products in order to evade legal control and facilitate widespread distribution. They have been present in Europe since 2007 but are now becoming a burgeoning presence in American hospitals. Though preliminary efforts are underway in the United States to restrict their usage and distribution, there remains a general unawareness on the part of physicians regarding the drugs' physiological effects. While they mimic the effects of other known stimulants, they are not detected on standard urine screens. We present a clinical case that illustrates a typical pattern of usage along with a description of their basic chemistry, appearance, methods of delivery, withdrawal and intoxication characteristics, treatment recommendations, and areas for further research.
Nonparametric Employment Subcenter Identification

Abstract A two-stage procedure is proposed for identifying urban employment subcenters. The first stage identifies candidate subcenters as significant positive residuals in a smoothed employment density function. Subcenters are those sites that provide significant explanatory power in the second-stage, semiparametric employment density function estimation. The procedure can be applied to either aggregated or disaggregated data, does not require detailed knowledge of the study area, and is easily reproducible by other researchers. Results are presented for five previously studied cities—Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, and San Francisco—and a new one, New Orleans.
Kiefer's theorem via the Hungarian construction

A proof of Kiefer's theorem estimating the difference between the empirical and quantile processes is given by appealing to the Hungarian construction.
Substance abuse by men in partner abuse intervention programs: Current issues and promising trends

This article discusses key studies linking intervention for co-occurring substance abuse and partner abuse. Findings are grouped into three areas: (a) the effect of addictions treatment on partner violence; (b) application of transtheoretical, motivational, and culturally focused approaches to improve engagement and prevent attrition; and (c) assessment-based matching of services. Finally, the relative value of serial, coordinated, and integrated substance abuse programs and partner abuse intervention programs are considered. We reached three primary conclusions: (a) Addiction treatment alone reduces the risk for future domestic violence in a subset of men who batter, (b) screening and assessment for substance abuse by all men in partner abuse intervention programs is a standard of practice but needs to extend beyond"intake"and occur periodically, and (c) coordinated and integrated substance abuse and domestic violence programs probably offer more safety than traditional serial substance abuse treatment followed by partner abuse intervention. Language: en
The Issue of Race in Counseling Psychology

The articles in this issue of The Counseling Psychologist discuss race and have implications for counseling psychology. Bryant-Davis and Ocampo’s (2005 [this issue]) article is about evaluation and treatment of racial-ethnic minority clients and patients and has implications for practice. Utsey, Gernat, and Hammar’s (2005 [this issue]) article is about the psychological issues and reactions to discussions of race in the training of psychologists and has implications for training. Delgado-Romero, Galvan, Maschino, and Rowland’s (2005 [this issue]) article is about what information on race and ethnicity is provided in articles being published in three important journals of counseling and has implications for research. Each article also mentions barriers to viewing race-related issues as important, incorporated, or acknowledged. With racism as trauma, the barriers are specifically mentioned: the psychiatric definition of trauma, moral disengagement, diluting the definition of trauma, compensation of victims, determining who is a legitimate victim, and pathologizing the victim of trauma. For discussing race and racism in counseling and in supervision, anxiety, apathy or disinterest, denial, and general psychological defenses are noted. Although not mentioned specifically, I add the barriers of a legitimate ignorance about racism or genuine lack of knowledge and awareness of racism. Barriers to race and ethnicity in research involve how racial classification systems can be used to support racism and oppression, and the universalism perspective in psychology. Each article in the Major Contribution has a central message to practitioners and/or researchers. This reaction will discuss the implications of, and some of the barriers to, addressing race and racism in counseling practice, training, and research. My reactions to each article focus on the question the article answers, the main point of the article, implications for counseling psychology, and general points that expand on the issues. My personal experiences and perspectives on these issues are presented to address reasons for the barriers and how we might be able to overcome some barriers to incorporating race-related issues into counseling psychology.
Duty in a time of disaster: a concept analysis.

Topic The concept of "duty" is explored particularly as it applies to disaster nursing. Purpose To identify the contributing factors to a nurse's sense of duty and the resulting consequences of such. Nursing implications of duty in a time of disaster are also discussed. Sources of information Professional literature, electronic resources, and nursing textbooks were used. The analysis was done using Walker and Avant's (1995) process. Conclusion The concept of duty has always been prevalent in nursing. As long as nurses have a sense of duty to their communities, nurse administrators will also have a moral obligation to protect their staff, especially in a time of disaster when nurses are compelled by a heightened sense of duty.
A comparison of evolutionary algorithms on a set of antenna design benchmarks

Many antenna design and optimization problems require optimizing multimodal, high dimensional, non-convex and inseparable objective functions. This has led researchers towards stochastic optimization techniques such as evolutionary algorithms (EAs) instead of classical gradient-based methods for these applications. However, despite many past successes, very little is known about which types of EAs map best to which types of antenna optimization problems. The goal of this work is to investigate this mapping of EAs to applications by comparing the performance of three EAs on five benchmark antenna design problems and one real-world problem derived from a NASA satellite mission. Performance of these algorithms has been compared on the basis of success rates and average convergence time over 30 independent runs. Our results indicate that age-layered population structure genetic algorithm (ALPS-GA) performed best in terms of success rates and convergence speed. However, on the NASA antenna design problem differential evolution achieved highest success rates, which was marginally better than ALPSGA. We also explored the effect of increasing antenna complexity on the antenna gain.
Electromechanical Behavior in Micromachined Piezoelectric Membranes

Piezoelectric materials can convert mechanical and electrical energy, a particularly useful tool in developing micro and nanoscale systems. Characterizing the electromechanical behavior is essential to the design and optimization of the material’s and device’s performance. This paper examines the influence of boundary (clamping) conditions, relative thickness variations between the active one to two micron thick piezoelectric membrane and underlying passive support structure, and the electrode coverage on the electromechanical behavior. Membranes were fabricated with silicon and lead zirconate titanate (PZT) with a ratio of Zr to Ti of 40:60 that provide thickness ratios between 1:2 and 2:1 by depositing the PZT using sequential solution deposition. PZT films contain a tensile stress that accumulates during processing, therefore a compressive stressed layer of tungsten was sputtered on bulk micromachined membranes to produce a near zero net residual stress. A nonlinear finite element numerical simulation technique is utilized for the analysis of the composite thin film. A comparison between the behavioral trends determined by simulation and experimental methods will be discussed.