cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
72 COMPARISON OF BEHAVIORAL PHENOTYPES OF XXY VERSUS XXYY SYNDROME.

Purpose of Study XXY syndrome (Klinefelter9s syndrome) is the most common form of sex chromosome aneuploidy in males. Due to a similar physical phenotype, XXYY syndrome has traditionally been classified as a variant of Klinefelter9s syndrome. A study directly comparing the cognitive and behavioral features of these two syndromes has not been completed. The purpose of this study is to compare the cognitive and behavioral features of males with XXY syndrome to males with XXYY syndrome. Methods Patients were recruited from national organizations for patients with sex chromosome aneuploidy. All participants were males between the ages of 2.5 and 20 and had either XXY or XXYY karyotype. All families underwent a clinical interview and parents completed the Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC). Cognitive testing was obtained using the WASI. Results The patient groups consisted of XXY males (n = 15) and XXYY males (n = 20). There were no significant differences in age between groups (mean age XXY = 9, XXYY = 12). Cognitive measures were compared between groups using t-tests, with statistically significant differences (p Conclusions XXYY males have Verbal and Full-Scale IQ9s significantly lower than males with XXY; however, their performance IQ does not significantly differ. XXYY males are more likely than XXY males to have problems with hyperactivity, aggression, conduct, atypicality, and depression. XXYY males also have significantly lower adaptive functioning than males with XXY syndrome. XXY males with lower IQs are more likely to have externalizing behavior, while IQ does not correlate with externalizing behaviors in XXYY syndrome. Although XXYY syndrome shares some physical features with XXY syndrome, XXYY syndrome appears to have a unique cognitive and behavioral profile and should be distinguished as its own behavioral phenotype.
Primary effusion lymphoma in human immune deficiency (HIV)-negative non-organ transplant immunocompetent patients

Primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) is a rare non-Hodgkin's lymphoma most commonly occurring in the context of human immune deficiency (HIV) infection. Herpes virus 8 (HHV-8) has been associated with PEL and considered to be the etiologic agent. In addition, most cases (60%-90%) also show evidence of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. We describe here an elderly man who was HIV seronegative and immunocompetent, and presented with worsening weakness and ascites. The diagnosis of PEL was rendered cytologically and supported by the results of flow cytometry. The presence of HHV-8 was demonstrated by immunohistochemistry, whereas EBV-associated genetic material was absent by EBER ISH. No lymphadenopathy or organ involvement with lymphoma was found. Systemic chemotherapy with lenalidomide was started given the poor prognosis and commodities of severe coronary artery disease; however, the patient did not respond and succumbed to his disease in 4 months. We present detailed cytologic and clinical findings of this very rare occurrence, and review literature of all reported PEL cases of HIV-negative, nontransplant, immunocompetent patients.
An imposed etic approach with Schwartz polar dimensions to explore cross-cultural use of social network services

Abstract Cross-cultural studies in Information Systems (IS) have experienced an overreliance on Hofstede’s theory, which has impeded researchers from exploring alternative theoretical lenses. We examine the moderating effects of Schwartz’s Polar Dimensions on users’ perception of Social Network Service, highlighting cultural issues associated with IS privacy, trust, and social capital. We found that the effect of perceived reputation is more powerful in American culture than Chinese culture, though network centrality has a stronger effect on use intention among Chinese users than American users. We also introduce the imposed etic approach, which has been rarely seen in IS research.
Predictors of 30-day hospital readmission after mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke.

Objective The 30-day readmission rate is of increasing interest to hospital administrators and physicians, as it is used to evaluate hospital performance and is associated with increased healthcare expenditures. The estimated yearly cost to Medicare of readmissions is $17.4 billion. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services therefore track unplanned 30-day readmissions and institute penalties against hospitals whose readmission rates exceed disease-specific national standards. One of the most important conditions with potential for improvement in cost-effective care is ischemic stroke, which affects 795,000 people in the United States and is a leading cause of death and disability. Recent widespread adoption of mechanical thrombectomy has revolutionized stroke care, requiring reassessment of readmission causes and costs in this population. Methods The authors retrospectively analyzed a prospectively maintained database of stroke patients and identified 561 patients who underwent mechanical thrombectomy between 2010 and 2019 at the authors' institution. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify clinical variables and comorbidities related to 30-day readmissions in this patient population. Results Of the 561 patients, 85.6% (n = 480) survived their admission and were discharged from the hospital to home or rehabilitation, and 8.8% (n = 42/480) were readmitted within 30 days. The median time to readmission was 10.5 days (IQR 6.0-14.3). The most common reasons for readmission were infection (33.3%) and acute cardiac or cerebrovascular events (19% and 20%, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that hypertension (p = 0.030; OR 2.72) and length of initial hospital stay (p = 0.040; OR 1.032) were significantly correlated with readmission within 30 days, while hemorrhagic conversion (grades 3 and 4) approached significance (p = 0.053; OR 2.23). Other factors, such as unfavorable outcome at discharge, history of coronary artery disease, and discharge destination, did not predict readmission. Conclusions The study data demonstrate that hypertension, length of hospital stay, and hemorrhagic conversion were predictors of 30-day hospital readmission in stroke patients after mechanical thrombectomy. Infection was the most common cause of 30-day readmission, followed by cardiac and cerebrovascular diagnoses. These results therefore may serve to identify patients within the stroke population who require increased surveillance following discharge to reduce complications and unplanned readmissions.
STAN+PETRA: A Statistical Analysis Aided Routing Algorithm for QoS in Mission-Driven IoT Networks

The Internet of Things (IoT) has opened large possibilities and more advanced applications, but it also increased the complexity of the network and its challenges. In this work, we are interested in statistically analyzing the predictability of connections in IoT networks in order to enhance their Quality of Service (QoS). Deep learning and classical prediction models are used to predict the dynamic spatio-temporal link availability, reduce overall path delay and improve the throughput. We are especially interested in mission-driven IoT networks (MD-IoT) such as the ones deployed in emergency and disaster relief missions, and vegetation and wildlife monitoring. In this paper, we propose a comprehensive Statistical Analysis (STAN) framework, that analyzes traces from MD-IoT networks and tests multiple deep learning and classical prediction models in order to identify the most appropriate one in terms of its applicability for the given network. We then implement a Dijkstra-based routing algorithm, PETRA, that integrates STAN's predictions. Finally, we run experiments using a dataset composed of real-life traces. We compare the performance of the two running modes of our PETRA routing algorithm to CRPO and show that PETRA can enhance the throughput by up to 29.4%. The results also show that the overall network performance is enhanced by up to 36.7%.
Mental Health Outcomes in Adolescent and Young Adult Female Cancer Survivors of a Sexual Minority

Purpose: Sexual minority (SM) individuals experience higher rates of anxiety and depression. Previous research on mental health disparities for SM cancer survivors has largely focused on adult surv...
Linking school organizational characteristics and teacher retention: Evidence from repeated cross-sectional national data

Abstract Teacher labor markets have strong implications for learning outcomes and equity for students, and yet schools that need teachers the most often face high turnover. Using repeated cross-sectional nationally representative data, this study examines the relationships between school organizational characteristics and teacher turnover and identifies what may be done to positively influence the teacher workforce. I find school organizational characteristics may indeed reduce teacher turnover, but this varies based on the type of organizational characteristic as well as the specific form of turnover. Policy and practical implications from the study are discussed.
Looptop Hard X-Ray Emission in Solar Flares: Images and Statistics

The discovery of hard X-ray sources near the top of a flaring loop by the HXT instrument on board the YOHKOH satellite represents a significant progress towards the understanding of the basic processes driving solar flares. In this paper we extend the previous study of limb flares by Masuda (1994) by including all YOHKOH observations up through August 1998. We report that from October 1991 to August 1998, YOHKOH observed 20 X-ray bright limb flares (where we use the same selection criteria as Masuda), of which we have sufficient data to analyze 18 events, including 8 previously unanalyzed flares. Of these 18 events, 15 show detectable impulsive looptop emission. Considering that the finite dynamic range (about a decade) of the detection introduces a strong bias against observing comparatively weak looptop sources, we conclude that looptop emission is a common feature of all flares. We summarize the observations of the footpoint to looptop flux ratio and the spectral indices. We present light curves and images of all the important newly analyzed limb flares. Whenever possible we present results for individual pulses in multipeak flares and for different loops for multiloop flares. We then discuss the statistics of the fluxes and spectral indices of the looptop and footpoint sources taking into account observational selection biases. The importance of these observations (and those expected from the scheduled HESSI satellite with its superior angular spectral and temporal resolution) in constraining acceleration models and parameters is discussed briefly.
Physical Activity Assessment and Recommendation for Adults With Arthritis by Primary Care Providers-DocStyles, 2018.

Purpose:To examine primary care providers' (PCPs) physical activity assessment and recommendation behaviors for adults with arthritis.Design:Cross-sectional.Setting:2018 DocStyles online national m...
Access to Justice for the Chinese Consumer – Handling Consumer Disputes in Contemporary China Book Review

Given this confusing landscape, it is not surprising that China’s consumer grievance handling procedure is largely under-studied. Although it has continuously sparked intense interest among English-speaking scholars and commentators, few have had the guts and will to approach this topic in a holistic way (pp. 7, 8). Against this backdrop, Dr. Ling Zhou, currently a postdoctoral research fellow at the Institute of International Asian Studies of the Chinese University of Hong Kong released Access to Justice for the Chinese Consumer – Handling Consumer Disputes in Contemporary China in 2020. The work was inspired by her PhD research done at the Oxford Centre for Socio-Legal Studies, based on invaluable data collected from a year of field work of “participation observation and in-depth interviews through internships” (p.3) of important consumer organizations and administrative bodies in Shenzhen, a Southern China city of thriving technology trade and cross-border commerce. To put Shenzhen’s consumption power into a dispute resolution context, the local Consumer Council “deals with more than 20,000 complaints each year” (p.48), a number not including cases that are resolved through judicial means. Like most socio-legal work employing similar ethnographic methods, Dr. Zhou’s book was never merely about black letter law and rules that can be easily tracked down by a statutory search. It is about the living law of ongoing consumer dispute resolution practices in China and how various actors repeatedly interact with the system to shape and be shaped by this extremely vibrant process.
Swimming Against The Tide: The UK Supreme Court's Hostility to Internationally Famous Trademarks

This article examines and questions the legal and policy basis for the UK Supreme Court's decision that English common law of passing off does not protect internationally well-known trademarks.
Characteristics and correlates of U.S. clinicians prescribing buprenorphine for opioid use disorder treatment using expanded authorities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Abstract Background To determine how clinicians with a DATA waiver to prescribe buprenorphine for opioid use disorder (OUD) adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic to emergency authorities, including use of telehealth to prescribe buprenorphine, the challenges faced by clinicians, and strategies employed by them to manage patients with OUD. Methods From June 23, 2020 to August 19, 2020, we conducted an electronic survey of U.S. DATA-waivered clinicians. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were used for analysis. Results Among 10,238 respondents, 68 % were physicians, 25 % nursing-related providers, and 6% physician assistants; 28 % reported never prescribing or not prescribing in the 12 months prior to the survey. Among the 72 % of clinicians who reported past 12-month buprenorphine prescribing (i.e. active practitioners during the pandemic) 30 % reported their practice setting closed to in-person visits during COVID-19; 33 % reported remote prescribing to new patients without an in-person examination. The strongest predictors of remote buprenorphine prescribing to new patients were prescribing buprenorphine to larger numbers of patients in an average month in the past year and closure of the practice setting during the pandemic; previous experience with remote prescribing to established patients prior to COVID-19 also was a significant predictor. Among clinicians prescribing to new patients without an in-person examination, 5.5 % reported difficulties with buprenorphine induction, most commonly withdrawal symptoms. Conclusions Telehealth practices and prescribing to new patients without an in-person examination were adopted by DATA-waivered clinicians during the first six months of COVID-19. Permanent adoption of these authorities may enable expanded access to buprenorphine treatment.
A longitudinal comparison of psychiatric service to selected socioeconomic areas of Monroe County, New York.

A comparison of overall mental illness rates and pattern of psychiatric service provided to patients from low and high socioeconomic areas of Monroe County, New York. The psychiatric case register indicates much higher rates of illness in the lower socioeconomic groups with inadequate treatment services provided.
Selective Activation of Deep Layer (V-VI) Retrohippocampal Cortical Neurons during Hippocampal Sharp Waves in the Behaving Rat

The coordinated activity of hippocampal neurons is reflected by macroscopic patterns, theta and sharp waves (SPW), evident in extracellular field recordings. The importance of these patterns is underscored by the ordered relation of specific neuronal populations to each pattern as well as the relation of each pattern to distinct behavioral states. During awake immobility, consummatory behavior, and slow wave sleep, CA3 and CA1 neurons participate in organized population bursts during SPW. In contrast, during theta-associated exploratory activity, the majority of principle cells are silent. Considerably less is known about the discharge properties of retrohippocampal neurons during theta, and particularly during SPW. These retrohippocampal neurons (entorhinal cortical, parasubicular, presubicular, and subicular) process and transmit information between the neocortex and the hippocampus. The present study examined the activity of these neurons in freely behaving rats during SPW (awake immobility) as well as theta (locomotion and REM sleep). A qualitative distinction between the activity of deep (V-VI) and superficial (II-III) layer retrohippocampal neurons was observed in relation to SPW as compared to theta. Deep layer retrohippocampal neurons exhibited a concurrent increase in activity during hippocampal SPW. In contrast, deep layer neurons were not modulated by the prominent theta oscillations observed throughout the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex. On the other hand, superficial layer retrohippocampal neurons were often phase-related to theta oscillations, but were surprisingly indifferent to the SPW-associated population bursting occurring within the deep layers. These findings indicate a concerted discharge of the hippocampal and retrohippocampal cortices during SPW that includes neurons within CA3, CA1, and subiculum as well as neurons in layers V-VI of the presubiculum, parasubiculum, and entorhinal cortex. Further, they suggest a temporal discontinuity in the input/output relations between the hippocampus and retrohippocampal structures. We suggest that SPW-associated population bursts in hippocampal and retrohippocampal cortices exert a powerful depolarizing effect on their postsynaptic neocortical targets and may represent a physiological mechanism for memory trace transfer from the hippocampus to the neocortex.
The origin of cultivated plants in Southeast Asia.

Cultivated plants represent man's most important heritage, and we cannot afford to loose sight of this fact even in an age of great and rapid technological advancement. Among the world's major problems, none is more urgent than an increase in food crops production. Intellectually, our knowledge of the origins of cultivated plants and their role in the early history of mankind is of interest. Without considering cultivated plants, we cannot hope to understand the nature of conditions under which civilizations arose. A study of the origins of cultivated plants is interdisciplinary, intimately concerned with history, geography, archaeology, anthropology, ethnology, and linguistics. It is, however, basically botanical. Modern plant taxonomy began with Linnaeus, whose classic work, Species Plantarum (1753), is an attempt, though a highly premature one, to present a world flora. He included both spontaneous and cultivated plants, assigning a geographical origin to most of the plants that he treated. There were few facts to guide him. Even his knowledge of geography was often inadequate. Several authors in the early 19th Century worked on this subject, but source material then was based generally on classical writings and statements of the herbalists. The beginning of scientific studies on origins of cultivated plants stems from the work of Alphonso de Candolle, specifically from his Geographie botanique raisonnee (1855). The latest botanical methods were employed
The Fading Bright Line of Physical Presence: Did KFC Corporation v. Iowa Department of Revenue Give States the Secret Recipe for Repudiating Quill ?

The U.S. Supreme Court has long held that the Dormant Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution prohibits states from imposing sales- or use-tax collection requirements on vendors that do not have a physical presence in their jurisdictions. That rule has been under pressure in recent years, however, with a number of states taking actions challenging the Court’s physical-presence rule. Those challenges have included expansive nexus-attribution provisions, burdensome information-reporting requirements, and calls to directly challenge the continued validity of the physical-presence test in court. The Iowa Supreme Court also recently added a new dimension to this resistance with its surprising physical-presence analysis in KFC Corporation v. Iowa Department of Revenue. In that analysis, the KFC court adopted a unique functional-equivalency standard under which it held that KFC’s contacts with Iowa satisfied the demands of the physical-presence test despite KFC having no direct physical connection to the state. This Article evaluates the KFC decision, discusses the apparent source and scope of the court’s rationale, and explains that KFC can only be interpreted as a direct repudiation of the Court’s physical-presence mandate. The Article concludes with a defense of the ongoing validity of that rule despite many calls to the contrary.
Negative cognitions as a moderator in the relationship between PTSD and substance use in a psychiatrically hospitalized adolescent sample.

Adolescents exposed to trauma are more likely to engage in alcohol and marijuana use compared to their nontrauma-exposed counterparts; however, little is known about factors that may moderate these associations. This study examined the potential moderating effect of cognitions relevant to exposure to trauma (i.e., negative view of self, world, and future) in the association between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis and substance use among a psychiatric inpatient sample of 188 adolescents. Findings were that PTSD diagnosis was not significantly associated with substance-use diagnoses, but was associated with substance-use symptoms, accounting for 2.9% and 9.6% of the variance in alcohol and marijuana symptoms, respectively. The association between PTSD diagnosis and substance use symptoms, however, was moderated by negative cognitions, with PTSD and high negative cognitions (but not low negative cognitions) being significantly positively associated with substance use symptoms. The relevant cognitions differed for alcohol symptoms and marijuana symptoms. Children and adolescents who experience trauma and PTSD may benefit from early interventions that focus on cognitive processes as one potential moderator in the development of posttrauma substance use. Traditional and Simplified Chinese Abstracts by AsianSTSS 標題：精神病院住院青少年中負面認知緩和PTSD和物質濫用間的關係 撮要：受創青少年比未受創者更多濫用酒精和大麻，但未知有何因素緩解當中關係。本文檢視188名精神科住院青少年，其中與創傷經歷有關的認知的潛在緩解作用在創傷後壓力症(PTSD)診斷和物質濫用兩者的關係。結果是PTSD診斷未與物質濫用診斷有明顯關係，但卻與物質濫用症狀相連(分別是2.9%和9.6%酒精和大麻症狀的變量) 。負面認知能緩和PTSD診斷及物質濫用症狀之間的關係，而PTSD和強烈負面認知(但非輕微負面認知)顯著地與物質濫用症狀呈正相連。酒精和大麻症狀的相應認知有異。兒童及青少年經歷創傷及PTSD後可受惠於聚焦認知過程的早期介入，以期緩解創傷後物質濫用的發生。 标题：精神病院住院青少年中负面认知缓和PTSD和物质滥用间的关系 撮要：受创青少年比未受创者更多滥用酒精和大麻，但未知有何因素缓解当中关系。本文检视188名精神科住院青少年，其中与创伤经历有关的认知的潜在缓解作用在创伤后压力症(PTSD)诊断和物质滥用两者的关系。结果是PTSD诊断未与物质滥用诊断有明显关系，但却与物质滥用症状相连(分别是2.9%和9.6%酒精和大麻症状的变量) 。负面认知能缓和PTSD诊断及物质滥用症状之间的关系，而PTSD和强烈负面认知(但非轻微负面认知)显著地与物质滥用症状呈正相连。酒精和大麻症状的相应认知有异。儿童及青少年经历创伤及PTSD后可受惠于聚焦认知过程的早期介入，以期缓解创伤后物质滥用的发生。
Hydrogen Peroxide as a Paracrine Vascular Mediator: Regulation and Signaling Leading to Dysfunction

Numerous studies have demonstrated the ability of a variety of vascular cells, including endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts, to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). Until recently, major emphasis was placed on the production of superoxide anion (O(2)(-)) in the vasculature as a result of its ability to directly attenuate the biological activity of endothelium-derived nitric oxide (NO). The short half-life and radius of diffusion of O(2)(-) drastically limit the role of this ROS as an important paracrine hormone in vascular biology. On the contrary, in recent years, the O(2)(-) metabolite hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) has increasingly been viewed as an important cellular signaling agent in its own right, capable of modulating both contractile and growth-promoting pathways with more far-reaching effects. In this review, we will assess the vascular production of H(2)O(2), its regulation by endogenous scavenger systems, and its ability to activate a variety of vascular signaling pathways, thereby leading to vascular contraction and growth. This discussion will include the ability of H(2)O(2) to (i) initiate calcium flux as well as (ii) stimulate pathways leading to sensitization of contractile elements to calcium. The latter involves a variety of protein kinases that have also been strongly implicated in vascular hypertrophy. Previous intensive study has emphasized the ability of NADPH oxidase-derived O(2)(-) and H(2)O(2) to activate these pathways in cultured smooth muscle cells. However, growing evidence indicates a considerably more complex array of unique oxidase systems in the endothelium, media, and adventitia that appear to participate in these deleterious effects in a sequential and temporal manner. Taken together, these findings seem consistent with a paracrine effect of H(2)O(2) across the vascular wall.
Modalities of Infant-Mother Interaction in Japanese, Japanese American Immigrant, and European American Dyads

Cultural variation in relations and moment-to-moment contingencies of infant–mother person-oriented and object-oriented interactions were compared in 118 Japanese, Japanese American immigrant, and European American dyads with 5.5-month-olds. Infant and mother person-oriented behaviors were related in all cultural groups, but infant and mother object-oriented behaviors were related only among European Americans. Infant and mother behaviors within each modality were mutually contingent in all groups. Culture moderated lead–lag relations: Japanese infants were more likely than their mothers to respond in object-oriented interactions; European American mothers were more likely than their infants to respond in person-oriented interactions. Japanese American dyads behaved like European American dyads. Interactions, infant effects, and parent socialization findings are set in cultural and accultural models of infant–mother transactions.
SVD Enhanced Seismic Interferometry For Traveltime Estimates Between Microquakes

In general, Green's functions obtained with seismic interferometry are only estimates of the true Green's function, introducing uncertainties to the information recovered from them. However, there are still many cases in which the source‐receiver geometries are suitable for seismic interferometry, usually allowing the recovery of kinematic information. Here we show how to use the singular value decomposition to reenforce the accuracy of traveltimes obtained from interferometric Green's functions. We apply the combination of seismic interferometry and the singular value decomposition to obtain physically accurate inter‐event traveltimes for microquake pairs at a geothermal reservoir. With a synthetic example, we show that the P‐wave phase and coda‐wave energy information are closer to correct with the singular value decomposition than without. These traveltimes could be used for velocity tomography and event location algorithms to obtain more accurate event locations and locally accurate velocity models.
Vortex structure and dynamics in κ-(ET)2Cu(NCS)2

Abstract We use Josephson plasma resonance (JPR) and DC torque magnetization measurements to investigate the vortex structure and dynamics in the layered organic superconductor κ-(ET)2Cu(NCS)2. JPR studies probe the AC response of this extreme type-II superconductor for currents driven along the low conductivity axis. An observed crossover in the magnetic field and temperature dependence of the JPR frequency, in close proximity to the irreversibility line, is attributed either to a melting or a depinning transition in the quasi-two-dimensional (Q2D) vortex structure. Angle and temperature dependent magnetization studies reveal the rich dynamical process by which magnetic flux enters this highly anisotropic superconductor, as well as information on the structure of the vortices once inside. At extremely low temperatures (T B * (θ, T) , is indicative of Q2D vortex lattice melting. Thus, using these two very different techniques, we are able to probe the vortex phase diagram over a wide temperature and magnetic field range.
Effect of Low Temperature Storage on Sugar Concentrations and Chip Color of Certain Processing Potato Cultivars and Selections

Two potato cultivars (Kennebec and Simcoe) and one selection (ND 860–2) were stored for 3 months at 4°, 9° and 11°C. ND 860–2 had the lowest sugar content at all storage temperatures, produced the lightest colored chips and was the only sample which gave acceptable colored chips directly from 4°C storage. In another study, three potato cultivars (Norchip, Simcoe and Onaway) and one selection (ND 860–2) were evaluated for sugar content and chip color during growth and harvest, two weeks prior and two weeks after foliar senescence, and stored under various time —- temperature regimes and upon reconditioning. ND 860–2 generally had the lowest levels of fructose, glucose and sucrose and Onaway had the highest. Storage at 5°C resulted in increases in the three sugars for all tubers, sucrose showing the most notable increase. ND 860–2 was the only sample to consistently produce acceptable colored chips directly from 5°C.
Exercise interest and preferences among patients diagnosed with primary brain cancer

Goals of the work The purpose of the present investigation was to examine the interest and exercise preferences of an institution-based sample of brain tumor patients. Secondary aims were to examine potential differences in participant’s interest and preferences by exercise behavior and select demographic/medical variables.
A thermodilution method for quantification of bidirectional shunts.

Abstract A method for measurement of bidirectional cardiovascular shunt fractions from single indicator dilution curves is presented. Linear system models corresponding to four basic shunt configurations are devised to represent the indicator dilution response of the cardiopulmonary circulation. The congenital heart defects in which bidirectional shunts exist are discussed in terms of the four anatomic configurations. Computer algorithms and digital processing techniques used for analyses of the indicator dilution curves are presented in detail. Forty-one thermodilution curves recorded during 13 pediatric cardiac catheterization procedures were analyzed and the results compared to simultaneous oximetric determinations. Comparison of L-R shunts, expressed as fractions of pulmonary plus R-L shunt flows, calculated by the two methods gave a standard error of 0.083 and a maximum difference of 0.15. Error analysis of the indicator dilution method predicted a standard deviation of 0.06. Multiple determinations were reproducible within a standard deviation of 0.051. Comparison of the right-to-left shunts, expressed as fractions of systemic plus left-to-right shunt flows gave a standard error of 0.083 and a maximum difference of 0.13. The standard deviation of multiple determinations was 0.029.
Autism Advocacy: A Network Striving for Equity

In this exploratory case study, we examine the rise of autism on the policy agenda and the new generation of autism advocacy. We focus especially on interconnections between the rhetoric about autism in the media and the emergence and political effectiveness of Autism Speaks, the nation's largest autism advocacy group. We portray how influential social actors frame the story of autism and how they have secured policy victories for youth with autism and their families. Whether issue framing affects policy by motivating network collaboration, or whether collaboration affects how social actors frame issues to affect policy is of fundamental concern in our preliminary analyses. We conclude by discussing implications for new research on the framing of the issue and network development.
Structured assessment of independent living skills: preliminary report of a performance measure of functional abilities in dementia

Assessment of functional abilities is integral to the diagnosis and management of elderly patients with dementia. We present a measure of activities of daily living, the Structured Assessment of Independent Living Skills (SAILS), and report preliminary reliability and validity data for 18 patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and 18 age- and education-equivalent controls. The SAILS utilizes behaviorally anchored rating scales to directly assess 10 areas of everyday functioning: Fine Motor Skills, Gross Motor Skills, Dressing, Eating, Expressive Language, Receptive Language, Time and Orientation, Money-Related Skills, Instrumental Activities, and Social Interaction. AD patients scored significantly worse than controls in all 10 areas. High correlations were obtained between the SAILS, visuospatial abilities, attention, and visual memory. In contrast, verbal memory, degree of depression, and praxis were not significantly correlated with the SAILS. The SAILS offers a criterion-based means of quantifying patient functional status for both clinical and research applications.
REPEATED WHISKEY BINGES PROMOTE LIVER INJURY IN RATS FED A CHOLINE-DEFICIENT DIET

Background/Aims Alcoholic liver disease is associated with nutritional deficiency and it may aggravate within the context of fatty liver. We investigated the relationship between alcohol intake (whiskey binge drinking) and a choline-deficient diet (CD) and assessed whether stellate cells could contribute to liver injury in this model. Results Rats fed the CD diet plus whiskey showed increased liver damage compared to rats fed the CD diet, as demonstrated by H&E staining, elevated transaminases, steatosis, TNF-α levels, enhanced CYP2E1 activity, impaired antioxidant defense, elevated lipid peroxidation, and protein carbonyls. The combined treatment triggered an apoptotic response as determined by elevated Bax, caspase-3 activity, cytochrome- c release, and decreased Bcl-2 and Bcl-X L . Stellate cells were activated as increased expression of α-Sma was observed over that by the CD diet alone. The combined treatment shifted extracellular matrix remodeling towards a pro-fibrogenic response due to up-regulation of collagen I, TIMP1, and Hsp47 proteins, along with down-regulation of MMP13, MMP2, and MMP9 expression, proteases which degrade collagen I. These events were accompanied by increased phosphorylation of p38, a kinase that elevates collagen I. Conclusions Repeated alcohol binges in the context of mild steatosis may promote activation of stellate cells and contribute to liver injury.
A new species of Atheroides Haliday (Hemiptera, Aphididae) native to North America.

We report and describe the first species of Atheroides Haliday presumed to be native to North America, collected at the Valles Caldera National Preserve, New Mexico, USA. We hypothesize its placement among the Siphini based on morphological, phylogenetic analysis and extend the distribution of the genus to the Holoarctic. We expand the key of the known Atheroides to include the new species and discuss the current hypotheses of the geographic distribution of the type species, Atheroides serrulatus Haliday.
Geometric Dispersion of Acoustic Waves by a Fibrous Composite

This study was initiated to examine the transmission of acoustic waves through a fibrous composite whose only dispersive mechanism was geometric. The elastic-elastic composite chosen for study was composed of tungsten wires embedded in an aluminum matrix. This unidirectional com posite was manufactured in two constituent ratios, 2.2 and 22.1 percent by volume of tungsten. The dispersive characteristics of these composites were determined for harmonic waves propagating normal to the axes of the fibers by using standard water-bath techniques with wide-band transducers.The dispersion data obtained demonstrate that fibrous composites be have as wave filters which selectively transmit or reflect periodic waves. Further, this wave filtering is shown to be a boundary layer phenomenon which can and must be eliminated from dispersion data if it is to be meaningful.
Monolithic wavelength-graded VCSEL and wavelength-selective photodetector arrays for wavelength-division-multiplexed optical interconnect applications

Monolithic, uniformly-wavelength-graded, vertical-cavity surface- emitting laser (VCSEL) and wavelength-selective resonance- enhanced photodetector (REPD) arrays are key enabling technologies for many wavelength-multiplexed optical network and interconnect architectures. These arrays can be produced in a repeatable and uniform manner by controlling the local MOCVD growth rate of the epilayers on a topographically patterned substrate, which resulted in wavelength-differentiated devices with more uniform optical characteristics. Multi-wavelength VCSEL and REPD arrays have been monolithically integrated on the same substrate to improve the wavelength matching between the source and detector elements. The performance characteristics of these arrays are discussed. We also describe a wavelength-division- multiplexing and demultiplexing experiment in which several channels of optical data are multiplexed together using a multi- wavelength VCSEL array and transmitted on a single optical fiber, and are demultiplexed at the other end using a wavelength- selective REPD array with closely-matching wavelengths.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Archival sources and the culture history of the Indians of the Eastern Subarctic

This paper discusses some of the historical materials available to anthropologists interested in research on the Indians of the Eastern Subarctic. Until very recently, several important archival resources were either unknown or ignored by scholars, and therefore many ethnohistorical issues have remained unresolved. In some cases, field data have been extended back in time to fill gaps. But when historical materials are later uncovered, they sometimes refute field-derived historical assumptions. This paper, then, stresses the importance of archival research and illustrates its value with reference to several problem areas in Subarctic ethnology. Of special significance are the Hudson's Bay Company Archives in Winnipeg.
Cost Considerations in Selecting Coronary Artery Revascularization Therapy in the Elderly

This article presents some of the cost factors involved in selecting coronary artery revascularization therapy in an elderly patient. With the percentage of gross national product allocated to healthcare continuing to rise in the US, resource allocation has become an issue. Percutaneous coronary intervention continues to be a viable option for many patients, with lower initial costs. However, long-term angina-free results often require further interventions or eventual surgery. Once coronary artery revascularization therapy is selected, it is worthwhile to evaluate the cost considerations inherent to various techniques. Off-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery has seen a resurgence, with improved technology and lower hospital costs than on-pump bypass surgery. Numerous factors contributing to cost in coronary surgery have been studied and several are documented here, including the potential benefits of early extubation and the use of standardized optimal care pathways. A wide range of hospital-level cost variation has been noted, and standardization issues remain. With the advent of advanced computer-assisted robotic techniques, a push toward totally endoscopic bypass surgery has begun, with the eventual hope of reducing hospital stays to a minimum while maximizing outcomes, thus reducing intensive care unit and stepdown care times, which contribute a great deal toward overall cost. At the present time, these techniques add a significant premium to hospital charges, outweighing any potential length-of-stay benefits from a cost standpoint. As our elderly population continues to grow, use of healthcare resource dollars will continue to be heavily scrutinized. Although the clinical outcome remains the ultimate benchmark, cost containment and optimization of resources will take on a larger role in the future.
Comparison of ISHAGE protocol CD34 cell enumeration with a lineage negative backgating technique

Background CD34+ cell enumeration in PBSC apheresis products has become the standard for assessing graft hematopoietic potential. Methods An in-house, three color, lineage negative-gating technique [University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) protocol] for CD34 cell enumeration was compared with the ISHAGE protocol over 100 apheresis products. Cell doses determined by both methods were compared with each other and to colony-forming units-granulocyte/macrophage (CFU-GM) assay results. Results Overall, the assays compared well with each other for samples with CD34 cell doses > 0.2 &#50 106/kg (r values > 0.8). The ISHAGE method showed a constant negative bias, with a mean of 38% in comparison to the UNMC protocol, which was more linear at lower cell doses. Both assays showed similar correlation with CFU-GM doses after log conversion (UNMC, r = 0.915; ISHAGE, r = 0.917). When comparing integer values, however, the ISHAGE method correlated with CFU-GM only in the high dose range (CFU-GM > 2 &#50 104/kg), whi...
Interpreting the Courage Trial: Is medical therapy as good as PCI in stable angina? Two views

We are fortunate to have a point-counterpoint between Dr. William Boden, the principal investigator of the Clinical Outcomes Utilizing Percutaneous Coronary Revascularization and Aggressive Drug Evaluation (COURAGE) trial, and Dr. Dean Kereiakes, a leading interventional cardiologist.
Cathepsin D-mediated proteolysis of apolipoprotein E: Possible role in Alzheimer’s disease

Proteolysis of apolipoprotein E (apoE) may be involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We previously identified aspartic protease(s) as possibly contributing to the proteolysis of apoE in human brain homogenates. The current study used biochemical and immunohistochemical methods to examine whether cathepsin D (catD) and cathepsin E (catE), candidate aspartic proteases, may be involved in apoE proteolysis. CatD was found to proteolyze both lipid-free recombinant full-length human apoE and lipidated human plasma full-length apoE (apoE4/dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine-reconstituted discs). CatE was found to proteolyze lipid-free recombinant human apoE to a much greater extent than lipidated apoE. This proteolysis, as well as proteolysis of human apoE added to brain homogenates from apoE-deficient mice, was inhibited by pepstatin A (an aspartic protease inhibitor), but not by phenylmethanesulfonyl fluoride (a serine protease inhibitor). The major apoE fragment obtained with catD included the receptor-binding domain and had an apparent molecular weight similar to that found in human brain homogenates. There was little immunoreactivity for catE in AD brain tissue sections. In contrast, qualitative and quantitative analyses of immunostained sections of the frontal cortex revealed that catD and apoE are colocalized in a subset of predominantly dense-core neuritic plaques and in some neurofibrillary tangles. A positive correlation was observed between estimated duration of illness and the percentage of apoE-positive plaques that were also catD-positive. These results suggest that aspartic proteases, catD in particular, may be involved in proteolysis of apoE and perhaps contribute to the generation of apoE fragments previously implicated in AD pathology.
Clinical applications of the interpersonal‐psychological theory of attempted and completed suicide

This article reviews the interpersonal-psychological theory of attempted and completed suicide and describes its applications in suicide risk assessment, crisis intervention, and skills-based psychotherapies. Three components are necessary, but not sufficient, for an individual to die by suicide: (1) the acquired capability to enact lethal self-injury, (2) a sense that one is a burden on others, and (3) the sense that one does not belong to a valued social group. We suggest that therapeutic interventions should focus on ascertaining the presence of these components and work to amend the cognitive distortions, negative interpersonal response styles, and ineffective coping behaviors that serve to maintain suicidal urges.
Influenza Vaccination and Its Impact on Hospitalization Events in Nursing Homes

Objectives To examine trends of influenza vaccination in nursing homes before and after public reporting (objective-1), and to assess the effect of influenza vaccinations on hospitalization events (objective-2). Research design Nursing Home Compare (NHC) database was used to obtain influenza vaccination rates during the 2005–2006, 2006–2007, and 2007–2008 flu seasons (objective-1). The 2005–2007 Minimum Data Set for New York State (NYS) was obtained and linked with the NHC data (objective-2). Settings and participants All nursing homes in the United States were included in the analysis of objective-1. All eligible NYS nursing homes and their residents, during 2005–2006 and 2006–2007 flu seasons, were included in the analysis of objective-2. Measurements Nursing home was the unit of analysis. Influenza vaccination rates in nursing homes over the 3 flu seasons were compared nationwide. A first-differenced model was fit to examine the relationship between facility vaccination rates and hospitalization rates in NYS. Results There was an increase in influenza vaccination rates in nursing homes over the 3 flu seasons, but this increase was no greater than that among community-dwelling elderly. In NYS facilities with high baseline vaccination rates, the effect of vaccination on reducing hospitalizations was small. In NYS facilities with a low baseline rate, a 10.0% increase in vaccination rate for long-term care residents was correlated with a 6.2% decline in baseline hospitalization rates. However, a 10.0% increase in vaccination rate for short-term care residents was correlated with a 4.6% increase in baseline hospitalization rates. Conclusions There is no clear evidence that public reporting improves vaccination rates in nursing homes. The effects of vaccination on hospitalization events in nursing homes are mixed.
Advantages and limitations of MgO as a dielectric for GaN

Abstract MgO and Sc 2 O 3 were deposited by gas source molecular beam epitaxy on GaN. MgO was found to produce lower interface state densities than Sc 2 O 3 , 2–3 × 10 11 vs. 9–11 × 10 11 eV −1 cm −2 . The good electrical quality of the interface is believed to be due to the presence of a single crystal epitaxial layer at the GaN surface. By contrast, the MgO was found to be more sensitive to environmental and thermal degradation than the Sc 2 O 3 . The environmental degradation is believed to be due to interaction with water vapor in the air and was suppressed by capping of the MgO. Annealing at the temperatures needed for implant activation in GaN produced significant roughening of the MgO/GaN interface and an order of magnitude increase in the interface state density. This sensitivity to thermal degradation will require changes in the processing sequence presently envisioned for e-mode devices in order to avoid damaging the interface and increasing the gate leakage in the device.
MULTIPLE SCATTERING OF ELECTRONS AND POSITRONS

Multiple scattering of 2650 electron and 1887 positron tracks was studied in nitrogen by cloud-chamber techniques. The theory of Williams with limiting angles due to Bethe best describes the multiple scattering of electrons and positrons in the momentum range between 1000 and 6000 G-cm. The theory of Moliere is iess satisfactory, underestimating the multiple scattering above 2000 G-cm by an appreciable amount. Analysis of positron-electron differences suggests that electron multipie scattering exceeds that for positrons by, at most, a few percent. This is in agreement with theoretical predictions of Nigam, Sundaresan, and Wu, and Mohr. No evidence is found for the very large differences claimed in most other experimental work. (auth)