cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Masculinity and Military Culture in VA Hospice and Palliative Care: A Narrative Review With Clinical Recommendations

This article examines the intersection between masculinity, military culture, and hospice and palliative care (HPC). The authors conducted a narrative literature review, supplemented with clinical annotations, to identify the impact of masculinity and military culture on the following topics salient to end-of-life care with older male veterans: pain management, mental health, coping, communication, autonomy and respect, and family roles. Findings suggest that traits associated with masculinity and military culture have an influence on the end-of-life process and HPC for older male veterans. Specifically, results suggest that older male veterans may deny or minimize physical pain, decline mental health treatment, utilize maladaptive coping strategies, avoid emotional conversations, struggle to manage perceived shifts in autonomy, and experience challenges negotiating changing family roles. The authors provide clinical recommendations for providers across various disciplines to address the aforementioned concerns with older male veterans in HPC. Overall, information presented in this article may be an important contribution to the literature for building cultural competencies with older male veterans and has the potential to improve the delivery of HPC for veterans and their families.
A Gap Between Willingness and Uptake: Findings From Mixed Methods Research on HIV Prevention Among Black and Latina Transgender Women.

Background Black and Latina transgender women (BLTW) face significant HIV disparities with estimated HIV prevalence up to 50% and annual incidence rates as high as 2.8 per 100 person-years. However, few studies have evaluated the acceptability and uptake of high-impact HIV prevention interventions among BLTW. Setting Data collection took place in Baltimore, MD and Washington, DC from May 2015 to May 2017. Methods This mixed methods study included quantitative interviewer-administered surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Rapid HIV testing followed each survey. Logistic regression models tested associations between legal gender affirmation (ie, desired name and gender marker on identity documents), transgender pride, history of exchange sex, HIV risk perception, and willingness to take pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Transcripts of qualitative data were coded to identify common themes related to engagement in HIV prevention. Results Among 201 BLTW, 56% tested HIV-positive and 87% had heard of PrEP. Only 18% who had heard of PrEP had ever taken it. Of the 72 self-reported HIV-negative or status-unknown BLTW who had never taken PrEP, 75% were willing to take it. In multivariable analyses, history of exchange sex was associated with willingness to take PrEP, whereas greater HIV knowledge and transgender pride were associated with lower likelihood of willingness to take PrEP. Concern about drug interactions with hormone therapy was the most frequently reported barrier to PrEP uptake. Conclusions Noting the disconnect between PrEP willingness and uptake among BLTW, HIV prevention programs could bridge this gap by responding to identified access barriers and incorporating community-derived strategies.
Oral delivery of nanoparticle urolithin A normalizes cellular stress and improves survival in mouse model of cisplatin-induced AKI

The popular anticancer drug cisplatin causes many adverse side effects, the most serious of which is acute kidney injury (AKI). Emerging evidence from laboratory and clinical studies suggests that ...
Spontaneous Thought as an Unconstrained Memory Process.

The stream of thought can flow freely, without much guidance from attention or cognitive control. What determines what we think about from one moment to the next? Spontaneous thought shares many commonalities with memory processes. We use insights from computational models of memory to explain how the stream of thought flows through the landscape of memory. In this framework of spontaneous thought, semantic memory scaffolds episodic memory to form the content of thought, and drifting context modulated by one's current state – both internal and external – constrains the area of memory to explore. This conceptualization of spontaneous thought can help to answer outstanding questions such as: what is the function of spontaneous thought, and how does the mind select what to think about?
Simple Fabrication of Flexible Biosensor Arrays Using Direct Writing for Multianalyte Measurement from Human Astrocytes

Simultaneous measurements of glucose, lactate, and neurotransmitters (e.g., glutamate) in cell culture over hours and days can provide a more dynamic and longitudinal perspective on ways neural cells respond to various drugs and environmental cues. Compared with conventional microfabrication techniques, direct writing of conductive ink is cheaper, faster, and customizable, which allows rapid iteration for different applications. Using a simple direct writing technique, we printed biosensor arrays onto cell culture dishes, flexible laminate, and glass to enable multianalyte monitoring. The ink was a composite of PEDOT:PSS conductive polymer, silicone, activated carbon, and Pt microparticles. We applied 0.5% Nafion to the biosensors for selectivity and functionalized them with oxidase enzymes. We characterized biosensors in phosphate-buffered saline and in cell culture medium supplemented with fetal bovine serum. The biosensor arrays measured glucose, lactate, and glutamate simultaneously and continued to function after incubation in cell culture at 37 °C for up to 2 days. We cultured primary human astrocytes on top of the biosensor arrays and placed arrays into astrocyte cultures. The biosensors simultaneously measured glucose, glutamate, and lactate from astrocyte cultures. Direct writing can be integrated with microfluidic organ-on-a-chip platforms or as part of a smart culture dish system. Because we print extrudable and flexible components, sensing elements can be printed on any 3D or flexible substrate.
Black Athenians: Making and Resisting Racialized Symbolic Boundaries in the Greek Street Market:

In this article, I show how groups and individuals maintain racialized symbolic boundaries at the micro-level of personal interactions. Using data collected during an ethnographic study in Athens, ...
Chloride Secretion by the Colonic Epithelial Cell Line T84: Mechanisms and Regulation

The gastrointestinal tract has as its primary function the digestion and absorption of nutrients. However, as a necessary concomitant of this function, the intestine also serves as a site of fluid and salt absorption and secretion (Barrett and Dharmsathaphorn 1991). In addition to the approximate volume of 11 provided by daily oral intake, the intestine and the organs that drain into it provide about 81 more. Obviously, this considerable volume must be largely reabsorbed if rapid dehydration is to be avoided. Conversely, a change in the balance between active absorption and secretion, such that secretion predominates, will rapidly lead to clinical diarrhea. Thus, the clinical implications of intestinal fluid secretion, while not contributing significantly to normal fluid homeostasis, have driven the desire of many physiologists to understand how intestinal salt and water transport is controlled.
Experiences of dual PHD-DNP nursing students during doctoral education

Abstract Background Nursing doctoral education now includes an option with a growing national interest: the PhD-DNP dual degree. Although programs have existed for 10 years, little is known about experiences of dual PhD-DNP degree nursing students (DDNS) during doctoral education, including their perceptions of mentorship during coursework, comprehensive exams, and dissertation readiness. Objective To explore and describe the experiences of DDNS during hybrid dual doctoral education at one Southwestern university. Method Using a qualitative descriptive design, DDNS (n = 4) at a Southwestern university were interviewed about their experiences during coursework and comprehensive examinations. Results Three categories fundamental to DDNS were identified through an inductive and deductive iterative process: coursework experiences, including the key findings of in-betweenness and isolation; mentorship; and comprehensive examination experience. Categories of dissertation readiness and DDNS recommendations were inductively derived. Conclusion Current interest in the PhD-DNP dual degree underscores the importance of knowing more about the experiences of DDNS. The key findings of in-betweenness and isolation have previously not been described in the nursing literature and need to be considered for the DDNS. Facilitators and inhibitors, mentorship experiences, and mentor attributes affect progression of DDNS through coursework. Strategies for success for DDNS, faculty and program success are provided.
Stress Testing During Times of War

The COVID crisis raises important questions about the role of stress testing during periods of systemic distress. Should stress testing of banks be abandoned? Modified? Proceed as scheduled? Different jurisdictions have taken different tacks, reflecting contestation over these fundamental issues. This essay argues that stress tests become more important, not less, in the midst of systemic distress, but only if the stress scenarios are modified to reflect the distinct challenges an economy is facing. Well-designed stress tests can provide critical information to policy makers and others, promoting more timely efforts to address underlying weaknesses. Given that regulators will rationally be hesitant to produce, much less disclose, information that could exacerbate the very crisis regulators are seeking to contain, crisis-time stress testing is only viable if regulators also have the tools needed to address any bad news the testing may reveal.
Emerging non-statin LDL-lowering therapies for dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis

Elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is an important risk factor for atherothrombotic arterial disease. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, or statins, are very effective in lowering cholesterol levels, and several trials using statins have shown reductions in mortality and cardiovascular events, leading to the recent recommendations that all patients with known vascular disease, or who are at high risk for vascular disease, should be considered candidates for statin therapy. Yet statins reduce cardiovascular events by only about 20%-40%. Nonstatin therapies (either as monotherapy or in addition to statins) to reduce LDL cholesterol by mechanisms that do not involve inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase are likely to be useful for patients in need of LDL reduction; particularly those who either cannot take statins or respond only partially or not at all to statins alone. These therapies include cholesterol absorption inhibitors, Acyl-CoA cholesterol acyl transferase inhibitors, farnesoid X receptor antagonists, sterol-regulating binding protein cleavage activating protein, and microsomal triglyceride transfer protein.
Training Educators to Accurately Classify Learning Disabled Students Using Concept Instruction and Expert System Technology

CLASS.LD2, a computer-based expert system designed to provide second-opinion advice on the appropriateness of a learning disabilities classification, was combined with strategies of effective conce...
Effect of one cycle of heating-cooling on the clay-concrete pile interface behavior

This study investigated the effect of applying one heating-cooling cycle on the interface strength parameters of saturated clay soil-concrete, and the potential use of the heating process to improve the side capacity of piles driven in clayey soil. A large direct shear test device with inner dimensions of 300 mm, 300 mm, and 200 mm for width, length, and height, respectively was modified to perform the interface soil-concrete tests. A concrete block (300 mm × 300 mm × 100 mm) was built and placed at the bottom section of the shear device. Watlaw heating fire rods system was used to heat the circulating water that heat the specimens. The experimental tests were conducted on Low Plasticity Index soil with PI=12. The specimens were first consolidated to a target normal stress prior to shearing. Two specimens at different testing temperature (room temperature = 20 °C, 70 °C) were tested for each of the four different normal stresses (30, 69, 110, and 150 kPa). The temperature for the heated specimens was increased gradually during the heating process from the room temperature (20 °C ± 2 °C) to 70 °C ± 2 °C in 3 hours. The specimens were then cooled back to room temperature. The test results showed significant increase in both peak and residual interface shear strength parameters by 13.6% and 15.6% increase in friction angle, respectively. Also, volumetric strain under shearing decreased after the heating and cooling cycle by 30.0%, 24.4%, 11.3%, and 24.2% under 30 kPa, 69 kPa, 110 kPa, and 150 kPa, respectively.
The Cardiometabolic Health Benefits of Sauna Exposure in Individuals with High-Stress Occupations. A Mechanistic Review

Components of the metabolic syndrome (i.e., hypertension, insulin resistance, obesity, atherosclerosis) are a leading cause of death in the United States and result in low-grade chronic inflammation, excessive oxidative stress, and the eventual development of cardiometabolic diseases (CMD). High-stress occupations (HSO: firefighters, police, military personnel, first responders, etc.) increase the risk of developing CMD because they expose individuals to chronic and multiple stressors (i.e., sleep deprivation, poor nutrition habits, lack of physical activity, psychological stress). Interestingly, heat exposure and, more specifically, sauna bathing have been shown to improve multiple markers of CMD, potentially acting as hormetic stressors, at the cellular level and in the whole organism. Therefore, sauna bathing might be a practical and alternative intervention for disease prevention for individuals with HSO. The purpose of this review is to detail the mechanisms and pathways involved in the response to both acute and chronic sauna bathing and collectively present sauna bathing as a potential treatment, in addition to current standard of care, for mitigating CMD to both clinicians and individuals serving in HSO.
Abstract PS1-12: Factors associated with chronic breast lymphedema after adjuvant radiation in women undergoing breast conservation therapy

Purpose/Objective(s):Unlike temporary breast edema caused by post-lumpectomy radiation therapy (RT), the edema that persists beyond one year is not well defined and difficult to treat. The aim of this study is to define the incidence and risk factors for the development of chronic breast lymphedema in women undergoing lumpectomy with RT at a large metropolitan cancer center. Materials/Methods:A retrospective chart review was performed on all patients who underwent lumpectomy from 2014 to 2018. Women who did not undergo RT at our institution and those with stage IV disease were excluded from the analysis. Patient demographics, comorbidities, operative data, RT data and postoperative complications were obtained. Chronic breast lymphedema (CBL) was defined as edema that persisted beyond one year post completion of radiation therapy. Breast volumes were determined by contoured breast volumes or, if unavailable, estimated by the 95% isodose volumes from the RT treatment planning system. Using a density curve, the distribution of breast volumes was plotted for patients with and patients without CBL. Univariate analysis was used to evaluate factors associated with CBL. Multivariate regression analysis was used to evaluate factors associated with the risk of CBL while accounting for potential confounding variables as defined by the univariate analysis. Results:A total of 1173 patients were included for analysis. Seventy-four (6.3%) patients developed breast lymphedema beyond one year. For the entire cohort, mean age was 63 years old (SD=11.17), mean BMI was 31.15 kg/m2 (SD=7.17), mean breast volume was 1198.54 cm3 (SD=645.82 cm3), mean total radiation was 59.18 Gy (SD=16.76), and 139 (11.8%) patients underwent ALND. Compared to the cohort that did not develop CBL (n=1099), the CBL cohort (n=74) had a higher median BMI (33.23 kg/m2 vs. 29.81 kg/m2, P Conclusion:Chronic breast lymphedema presents a clinical concern for women undergoing lumpectomy with postoperative radiation, particularly in women with larger breasts. Further studies should focus on preventative strategies, as well as the psychosocial and economic impact of this morbidity. Citation Format: Sanjay Rama, Cara Canella, Jenna Luker, Kelley Park, Renee Barry, Saheli Ghosh, Simeng Zhu, Yalei Chen, Jessica Bensenhaver, Eleanor Walker, Kenneth Levin, Dunya Atisha, Maristella Evangelista. Factors associated with chronic breast lymphedema after adjuvant radiation in women undergoing breast conservation therapy [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2020 San Antonio Breast Cancer Virtual Symposium; 2020 Dec 8-11; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS1-12.
Epidemiology and Long-Term Outcomes of Wrist Sprains in Military Academy Cadets:

Background:The American Society for Surgery of the Hand advises patients that symptoms after wrist sprains resolve in 6 weeks and that recovery is usually excellent; however, there is scant support...
Auditory and distance cues interact to modulate female gray treefrog preferences for male advertisement calls

Social interactions of animals depend on a complex interplay of signals, receivers, and internal and external information available to the participants. Mate choice decisions in breeding aggregations, in particular, represent some of the most consequential such interactions. As a measure of female mate preferences, we examined the strength of phonotaxis toward male advertisement calls that is shown by female gray treefrogs (Hyla versicolor). We varied two temporal features of the call stimuli (pulse number and intercall interval (ICI)) and observed the response of females from a distance of 6.4 m. Response strength was doubled or more, compared to control trials from 1 m. However, earlier described preferences for higher pulse number calls were not observed. Our design did uncover significant effects of the ICI on response strength, with stronger responses as the ICI increased. Latency of females to depart from the origin toward sound stimuli was also increased at greater distances, compared to tests from 1 m, suggesting changes in sampling behavior by females. Lastly, prior experience of female treefrogs with the more distant stimuli significantly influenced later trials, depending on rest periods outside the arena and the ICI of the prior stimuli. Overall, female gray treefrog phonotaxis responses from greater distances, more typical of field conditions, reveal different patterns of preference for stimulus temporal features. These differences may at least partially account for poor correspondence between field and lab female gray treefrog mate choices. Selection of mates based on their individual characteristics drives sexual selection processes. However, the strength of this selection can be reduced or enhanced by interaction of female preferences for male characteristics and a female’s internal and external circumstances. We tested the strength of female gray treefrog (Hyla versicolor) preferences by measuring the speed with which females approached particular synthetic male advertisement call stimuli. Our design was unique for its use of larger distances between females and male stimuli and for our use of a very broad range of stimuli. This approach provided new insight into constraints on female preference and choice based on distance, sampling behavior, and prior experience.
Character, Narrator, and Simile in the Iliad

Introduction 1. The simile and the Homeric comparative spectrum 2. Similes and likenesses in the character-text 3. A preparation for reading sequences of similes 4. Sequences of similes in the character-text 5. Narrator, character, and simile 6. Similes in the narrator-text Conclusion: the Odyssey compared.
Interrelations among the lesions of normal and abnormal aging of the brain.

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on interrelations between the lesions of normal and abnormal aging of the brain. The major lesions of Alzheimer's disease are tangles, plaques, amyloid angiopathy, and neuronal loss, as well as a variety of neuropharmacologic deficiencies. The sequence of events might be that the genetic factor plus a second factor induces the synthesis of an abnormal protein that on a core of aluminum–silicate filaments forms paired helical filaments, which in aggregate make neurofibrillary tangles. These, on the one hand, kill the cells and their processes causing deficiencies of transmitters and receptors, while on the other hand, the abnormal fibers leave the dying neuron, pass into the extracellular space to form the core of the plaque, and subsequently infiltrate the vessel walls. Another hypothesis is that an abnormal substrate is formed elsewhere and is transported to the brain via the blood stream. It passes through the vessel wall and is processed in the mural cells to be deposited as amyloid. It also gains the parenchyma to be deposited, again perhaps on aluminum–silicate filaments, as amyloid.
Ultra-High Field 7T MRI: A New Tool for Studying Alzheimer's Disease

Ultra-high field 7T MRI offers superior signal-to-noise and spatial resolution relative to any other noninvasive imaging technique. By revealing fine anatomical details of the living brain, 7T MRI allows neuroimaging researchers the opportunity to observe in patients disease-related structural changes previously apparent only on postmortem tissue analysis. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a natural subject for this technology, and I review here two AD-related applications of 7T MRI: direct visualization of cortical plaques, and high resolution hippocampal imaging. I also discuss limitations of this technology as well as expected advances that are likely to establish 7T MRI as an increasingly important tool for the diagnosis and tracking of AD.
Toxic shock syndrome mimicking pelvic inflammatory disease presumably resulting from tattoo

The female patient with a variety of genital tract symptoms offers a distinct challenge to the gynecologist. We report a case that on initial examination was thought to be pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). After further evaluation, our patient was found to be suffering from toxic shock syndrome, which in many ways may resemble PID. This case demonstrates the importance of a careful and thorough evaluation of the gynecologic patient who has several nonspecific signs and symptoms.
Chapter 10: Preaching to Senior Citizens

SUMMARY This article addresses two questions: How is preaching to a congregation of senior citizens the same as preaching to younger persons; and how is it different? It includes some practical suggestions for sermon preparation and delivery by ministers whose congregations contain a number of older persons with specific needs.
Low temperature development of PMMA for sub-10-nm electron beam lithography

We investigate PMMA development at lowered temperatures for its effect on the resolution, PMMA trench cleanliness and pattern quality of sub-10 nm e-beam lithography. We find that low temperature development (4/spl sim/10 deg. C) results in reproducibly 4/spl sim/8 nm PMMA trenches and fabrication of single-particle-width Au nano-particle lines by liftoff. We discuss development temperature and other key factors for formation of better quality PMMA trenches at the sub-10 nm scale.
Mutations in two cysteine-histidine-rich clusters in adenovirus type 2 DNA polymerase affect DNA binding.

Abstract Several point and linker insertion mutations in two Cys-His-rich regions of adenovirus (Ad) DNA polymerase (Pol) gene have been expressed in recombinant vaccinia virus. The resulting mutant enzymes were analyzed in vitro for their effects on DNA synthesis activity, on Ad-specific initiation assays, on gel shifts of Ad origin sequences, and on interactions with adenovirus preterminal protein (pTP) and nuclear factor I (NFI). In general, mutants in downstream Cys-His sequences had a pronounced effect in these assays. Mutants in the upstream Cys-His region had a moderate effect on DNA synthesis and elongation but failed to make dCMP-pTP initiation complexes and failed to make specific shifted complexes in a gel retardation assay. These mutants could still bind to pTP and NFI in a coimmunoprecipitation experiment, suggesting that this upstream Cys-His region of Ad Pol is involved either in specific Ad DNA origin binding or in nonspecific DNA binding. Changing residues within Cys doublets in the downstream Cys-His region had pronounced effects on many Ad Pol functions such as DNA synthesis, DNA binding, and in vitro initiation; however, these mutants showed little reduction in binding to pTP and NFI; mutants at other cysteines or histidines within this region of Ad Pol did not appear to have an effect on enzyme function. This observation suggests that the downstream Cys-His region of Ad Pol is important for DNA binding and might fold into a Zn finger motif.
CO2-PENS: A CO2 Sequestration Systems Model Supporting Risk-Based Decisions

The Zero Emissions Research and Technology (ZERT) project at the Los Alamos National Laboratory is studying the injection of CO2 into geologic repositories. We are formulating the problem as science based decision framework that can address issues of risk, cost, and technical requirements at all stages of the sequestration process. The framework is implemented in a sys tem model that is capable of performing stochastic simulations to address uncertainty in different geologic sequestration sc enarios, including injection into poorly characterized brine aquifers. Processes level laboratory experiments, field experiments, modeling, economic data, and risk theory are used to support the system level model that will be the basis for decision making. The current system model, CO2-PENS, is already proving to b e useful in showing complex interactions between the different components of the framework. The system model also provides a consistent platform to document decisions made during the site selection, implementation, and closure periods.
Support for Earmarked Public Spending on Culture: Evidence from a Referendum in Metropolitan Detroit

Using the precinct-level voting results of a 2002 referendum in Metropolitan Detroit to increase property taxes, with the proceeds earmarked for cultural institutions, this paper inquires into the pattern of voting support for an increased public funding of culture. The estimation matches voting precincts to census tracts, and employs tract-level economic and demographic data. Results are compared with public opinion survey data from the United States and a similar referendum in Switzerland.
Growth-related coordinate regulation of the early N-glycosylation genes in yeast

The Saccharomyces cerevisiae ALG7, ALG1 and ALG2 genes, whose products function early in the dolichol pathway of protein N-glycosylation, are essential for cell viability, and perturbation in their expression causes G1-specific cell cycle arrest. Here, we show that expression of the ALG7, ALG1 and ALG2 genes is coordinately regulated at the G0/G1 transition point in the yeast life cycle. Carbon starvation, which induces cells to exit from the G1 stage of the mitotic cycle into G0, resulted in a time-dependent decrease in the levels of the early ALG genes' mRNAs. Accordingly, addition of glucose, which stimulates the G0-arrested cells to resume proliferation, resulted in a rapid induction of their mRNAs. Cycloheximide alone also induced the early ALG transcripts, albeit to a much lower extent than glucose. Simultaneous addition of glucose and cycloheximide caused superinduction of these mRNAs, indicating that more than one control level was involved in their activation. Consistent with this, rapid degradation of ALG7, ALG1 and ALG2 mRNAs was completely abolished in the presence of cycloheximide. These data suggest that in yeast, the early N-glycosylation genes are regulated in a manner similar to that of the early growth-response genes.
First-episode schizophreniform disorder: comparisons with first-episode schizophrenia

Abstract Background : Schizophreniform disorder remains poorly understood and has been reported probably to be a heterogeneous group of psychotic disorders. Method : This study compared first-episode schizophreniform disorder ( N =12) and schizophrenia ( N =18) patients. The authors propose that schizophreniform disorder has a different type of onset and outcome than schizophrenia. Patients were given extensive assessments at initial evaluation, 6 month follow-up, and 24 month follow-up. Comparisons between the two groups were made on type of onset, demographic, clinical ratings and outcome variables. Results : Patients with schizophreniform disorder compared to patients with schizophrenia were more likely to have an acute onset ( P =0.003), and have recovered by 6 months ( P =0.03). However, there were no differences in outcome at 24 months. Furthermore, all schizophreniform cases except for two were re-diagnosed at 24 months as having schizophrenia. Conclusions : The findings suggest that the initial differences of schizophreniform disorder compared to schizophrenia were not apparent at 24 months follow-up. Schizophreniform disorder did not emerge as a highly distinctive and stable form of psychosis that merits a diagnostic classification separate from schizophrenia.
Predictors of response to phototherapy in seasonal affective disorder.

Abstract We examined data from 44 women with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) to determine whether any demographic, diagnostic, or symptomatic characteristics would be predictive of a favorable response to phototherapy. Preexistent hypersomnia was particularly associated with lessening of depression after phototherapy. In contrast to a report elsewhere, both “typical” and “atypical” depressive symptoms correlated with improvement after phototherapy.
Hereditary long Q‐T syndrome presenting as epilepsy: Electroencephalography laboratory diagnosis

Patients with hereditary Q-T interval prolongation can present with seizures, syncope, and sudden death. In 2 siblings with autosomal dominant familial long Q-T syndrome, electroencephalographic examinations performed 6 and 2 years before diagnosis included electrocardiographic tracings documenting the cardiac abnormality. A timely diagnosis of this condition may have prevented the death of 1 of these patients. Measurement of the corrected Q-T interval on electrocardiographic tracings obtained in the electroencephalography laboratory should be considered in selected patients.
Integrated wavelet and neural processor for automatic target recognition

An integrated automatic target recognition processor utilizing a feature extraction wavelet preprocessor and a pattern recognition neuroprocessor is introduced. Feature extraction of orientation and scale information using a Morlet wavelet is introduced. This feature extraction wavelet preprocessor is used for pre-attentive vision such that the orientation, scale, and location feature are effectively extracted. This wavelet preprocessor will enable the neuroprocessor to dynamically focus its vision on incoming targets based on their known features. This will result in higher discrimination and lower false alarm rate. The theoretical analysis of the orientation and scale selectivity using a Morlet wavelet is provided. Experimental demonstrations of wavelet preprocessing for feature extraction are also provided.
Supervision of Students May Protect Academic Physicians from Cognitive Bias: A Study of Decision Making and Multiple Treatment Alternatives in Medicine:

Objective. To determine how professional characteristics and practices of physicians alter the selection of medical treatments involving multiple alternatives. Situations involving multiple alterna...
Weak Lensing Measurements: A Revisited Method and Application toHubble Space Telescope Images

The weak distortions produced by gravitational lensing in the images of background galaxies provide a unique method to measure directly the distribution of mass in the universe. However, because the induced distortions are only of a few percent, this technique requires high-precision measurements of the lensing shear and cautious corrections for systematic effects. Kaiser, Squires, & Broadhurst proposed a method to calibrate the ellipticity-shear relation in the presence of point-spread function (PSF) anisotropies and camera distortions. Here, we revisit the Kaiser, Squires, & Broadhurst method in the context of the demanding search for weak lensing by large-scale structure. We show that both the PSF and the camera distortions can be corrected for using source moments, as opposed to ellipticities. We clarify the applicability of some of the approximations made in this method. We derive expressions for the corrections that involve only the galaxy moments. By decomposing the moments into spinors, we derive an explicit relation between the shear and the average ellipticity. We discuss the shortcomings of the method and test its validity using numerical simulations. As an application of the method, we repeat the analysis of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) WFPC2 camera performed by Hoekstra et al. We confirm the presence of sizable (~10%) PSF ellipticities at the edge of the WFPC2 chips. However, we find that the camera distortion is radial, rather than tangential. We also show that the PSF ellipticity varies by as much as 2% over time. We use these measurements to correct the shape of galaxies in the HST Survey Strip (the "Groth" Strip). By considering the dependence of the ellipticities on object size, we show that, after corrections, the residual systematic uncertainty for galaxies with radii greater than 015 is about 0.4% when averaged over each chip. We discuss how these results provide good prospects for measuring weak lensing by large-scale structure with deep HST surveys.
Gastrostomy for gaseous decompression in quadriplegic man: case report

Summary A case of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy in a quadriplegic patient with aerophagia and symptomatic chronic gastric distention is presented. Gastrostomy is an accepted proce­ dure for acute and chronic gastric distention in veterinary medicine. In the aerophagic quadriplegic population, this is a viable therapeutic option after failure of medical therapy. Aerophagia in the adult quadriplegic is a significant clinical problem for which no defmite treatment exists. Gastrostomy for feeding and decompression is an estab­ lished surgical procedure for various indications, and veterinary surgeons employ it to relieve acute and chronic gaseous distention in cattle and dogs. We present a case in which percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) was performed for relief of symptomatic gastric distention in a high-risk quadriplegic patient whose abdomi­ nal pain and bloating due to aerophagia were refractory to medical management. In our experience in a Department of Veterans Affairs Spinal Cord Injury Cen­ ter, we have noted chronic gastric dilatation in many quadriplegic patients, appar­ ently due to aerophagia, and we have treated several patients medically for upper abdominal pain and bloating. It is interesting to speculate whether this condition is caused by a gastro-pyloric dyssynergia analogous to the bladder and anorectal dys­ synergias found in spinal cord injury patients, and whether inability to belch through unchecked diaphragmatic pressure on the oesophagus is a contributing factor. The preponderance of older individuals with this condition may point to an aetiologic role for chronic anticholinergic administration in gastric hypotony and hypomotility.
Solid state and magnetochemistry of the SrO‐Fe2O3 system IV. Synthesis of SrFe12O19 from coprecipitated precursors

By means of 57Fe Mossbauer spectroscopy and powder x‐ray diffraction techniques, it has been determined that the formation of SrFe12O19 from coprecipitated ferric hydroxide and strontium laurate follows a reaction mechanism different from that when SrCO3 and Fe2O3 are used as starting materials. Upon heating at 300 C in vacuum, strontium laurate decomposes and further heating to 550 C leads to the formation of γ‐Fe2O3 from the ferric hydroxide and solid solution of SrO in γ‐Fe2O3. This solid solution phase behaves as an intermediate and undergoes further reaction with γ‐Fe2O3 to give SrFe12O19. No paramagnetic Sr‐Fe oxide intermediate is formed. The low temperature of the reactions and the absence of paramagnetic intermediates offer new possibilities for controlling the textures and magnetic properties SrFe12O19 ceramic bodies.
Selective functionalization and loading of biomolecules in crystalline silicon nanotube field-effect-transistors.

Crystalline silicon nanotubes (Si NTs) provide distinctive advantages as electrical and biochemical analysis scaffolds through their unique morphology and electrical tunability compared to solid nanowires or amorphous/non-conductive nanotubes. Such potential is investigated in this report. Gate-dependent four-probe current–voltage analysis reveals electrical properties such as resistivity to differ by nearly 3 orders of magnitude between crystalline and amorphous Si NTs. Analysis of transistor transfer characteristics yields a field effect mobility of 40.0 cm2 V−1 s−1 in crystalline Si NTs. The hollow morphology also allows selective inner/outer surface functionalization and loading capability either as a carrier for molecular targets or as a nanofluidic channel for biomolecular assays. We present for the first time a demonstration of internalization of fluorescent dyes (rhodamine) and biomolecules (BSA) in Si NTs as long as 22 μm in length.
Statin Prescribing Patterns: An Analysis of Data From Patients With Diabetes in the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey Outpatient Department and National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey Databases, 2005-2010.

Abstract Purpose In 2008, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommended that patients aged >40 years with diabetes and cardiovascular disease or with ≥1 cardiovascular disease risk factor be prescribed a statin. This study assessed statin prescribing patterns in patients with diabetes, per the ADA guideline, using data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey and National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey–Outpatient Department for the years 2005 to 2010. This study also examined patients' demographic characteristics associated with statin prescribing, including sex, age, ethnicity, race, insurance type, body mass index, region, primary care provider, hypertension and hyperlipidemia. Methods This retrospective, cross-sectional, observational study included data dated between 2005 and 2010 from patients aged ≥18 years with diabetes and without contraindications to statin use. Associations between statin prescribing and variables of interest were analyzed using χ 2 tests. A multivariate logistic regression model included 2 groups stratified by 3-year observation period (2005–2007 and 2008–2010) plus all variables with an overall χ 2 test result of P P values, odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs are reported. Findings The majority of patients were aged ≥40 years (93.1%), had a body mass index of ≥30 (58.7%), had hypertension (65.6%), and did not have hyperlipidemia (54.0%). A low percentage of patients were prescribed a statin (35.1%), but it appears that this percentage is on the rise. During 2005–2007, 31.9% of patients received a statin, whereas 37.7% of patients received a statin during 2008–2010. After adjustment for covariates included in the multivariate logistic regression model, those with hypertension (vs none [reference]: OR=1.31; 95% CI, 1.12–1.53) and/or hyperlipidemia (vs none [reference]: OR=4.44; 95% CI, 3.70–5.33) were significantly more likely to have been prescribed a statin, whereas those in age group 18– Implications Despite the call in the latest ADA recommendations for prescribing statins in many diabetic patients, an unexpectedly low percentage of patients were receiving them. Health disparities in age and ethnicity were also evident. The findings from this study highlight the need for further research into low statin prescribing rates.
Application of a slow-zone model to contaminant dispersion in laminar shear flows

Abstract A slow-zone model which was developed for dispersion in two-dimensional turbulent open channel flow is here applied to contaminant dispersion in laminar shear flow in a circular pipe or between parallel plates . In this model the flow is divided into two zones—a fast zone in the middle of the flow and a slow zone near the wall. The resulting pair of coupled linear dispersion equations is solved by Fourier transformation and the Fourier integrals are inverted approximately. The significance of the results is that explicit analytic expressions are obtained for the fast zone, slow zone and cross-sectional average contaminant concentrations. These expressions are valid for all longitudinal positions and all time following contaminant discharge. The results show that laminar dispersion can be described in two stages. In the first stage, corresponding to small times after contaminant discharge, the mean contaminant distribution ( c ) consists of a leading Gaussian (mostly in the fast zone), followed by a trailing Gaussian (mostly in the slow zone), and the peak values decay exponentially with time. In the second stage (larger times) c gradually approaches a single Gaussian which travels with the mean speed in accordance with the Taylor model. These theoretical results are shown to be in reasonable agreement with previously calculated exact (numerical) solutions for laminar pipe or channel flows.
A geometric representation of spectral and temporal vowel features : Quantification of vowel overlap in three linguistic varieties

A geometrical method for computing overlap between vowel distributions, the spectral overlap assessment metric (SOAM), is applied to an investigation of spectral (F1, F2) and temporal (duration) relations in three different types of systems: one claimed to exhibit primary quality (American English), one primary quantity (Jamaican Creole), and one about which no claims have been made (Jamaican English). Shapes, orientations, and proximities of pairs of vowel distributions involved in phonological oppositions are modeled using best-fit ellipses (in F1 x F2 space) and ellipsoids (F1 x F2 x duration). Overlap fractions computed for each pair suggest that spectral and temporal features interact differently in the three varieties and oppositions. Under a two-dimensional analysis, two of three American English oppositions show no overlap; the third shows partial overlap. All Jamaican Creole oppositions exhibit complete overlap when F1 and F2 alone are modeled, but no or partial overlap with incorporation of a factor for duration. Jamaican English three-dimensional overlap fractions resemble two-dimensional results for American English. A multidimensional analysis tool such as SOAM appears to provide a more objective basis for simultaneously investigating spectral and temporal relations within vowel systems. Normalization methods and the SOAM method are described in an extended appendix.
Single sodium channels from rat brain incorporated into planar lipid bilayer membranes

A voltage- and time-dependent conductance for sodium ions is responsible for the generation of impulses in most nerve and muscle cells1. Changes in the sodium conductance are produced by the opening and closing of many discrete transmembrane channels2. We present here the first report of electrical recordings from voltage-dependent sodium channels incorporated into planar lipid bilayers. In bilayers with many channels, batrachotoxin3 (BTX) induced a steady-state sodium current that was blocked by saxitoxin4 (STX) at nanomolar concentrations. All channels appeared in the bilayer with their STX blocking sites facing the side of vesicle addition, allowing us to define that as the extracellular side. Current fluctuations due to the opening and closing of single BTX-activated sodium channels were voltage-dependent (unit conductance, 30 pS in 0.5 M NaCl): the channels closed at large hyperpolarizing potentials. Slower fluctuations of the same amplitude, due to the blocking and unblocking of individual channels, were seen after addition of STX. Block of the sodium channels by STX was voltage-dependent, with hyperpolarizing potentials favouring block. The voltage-dependent gating, ionic selectivity and neurotoxin sensitivity suggest that these are the channels that normally underlie the sodium conductance change during the nerve impulse.
Effects of calpain inhibition on IkBα degradation following PBMC activation: identification of calpain cleavage sites

We previously demonstrated calpain-mediated activation of PBMCs. In order to examine whether calpain plays a role in the degradation of IkBα and NFkβ translocation in the mechanism of T cell activation, human PBMCs were activated using anti-CD3/CD28 (HIT3A/CD28.2). Degradation of IkBα was monitored by Western blot, degradation products were sequenced, and calpain-cleaved sites were determined. The activated cells degraded IkBα, the inhibitor of NFkβ, relative to non-activated cells. IkBα degradation was progressive and inhibited by calpain inhibitor calpeptin in a dose and time dependent manner. Further, calpain inhibition increased IkBα levels above those observed in non-activated negative controls. Recombinant IkBα was incubated with purified porcine mcalpain to initiate the degradation of IkBα. The degradation products were separated via SDS–PAGE and visualized using Coomassie Stain. The stained degradation products were isolated and subjected to sequencing. Calpain cleaved the recombinant IkBα most effectively when incubated with IkBα at a ratio of 1 : 1 for 20 min in the presence of 0.1% Triton-X100. After incubation, several degradation products were detected, including a peptide corresponding to a cleavage of IkBα between amino acids 50 and 51 (glutamine and glutamic acid). The liberated fragment included the entire Signal Response Domain (SRD), a region containing key serine and threonine residues necessary for phosphorylation by the IKKinase complex and sites required for ubiquitination. These results show that calpain plays an important role in IkBα degradation, a crucial event in T cell activation and is involved in the normal turnover of IkBα. Acknowledgements: Supported by grants from NIH-NINDS.
Polymerase Chain Reaction Inhibition in Historical Fish Scale Mounting Cards

Abstract In the case of Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp., as in that of other fish species, the ability to amplify specific DNA sequences from historical scale samples offers the opportunity to infer past population genetic structure and better understand how human activities may have changed natural populations. We extracted DNA from fish scales of various ages using two different methods and tested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of nuclear and mitochondrial products of various sizes. Our results provide further insight into some important limitations in working with historical DNA samples. We found evidence suggesting the presence of an inhibitory compound associated with the gummed scale collection cards that copurified with the DNA. Our results demonstrated that the putative inhibitory material was free in solution and not bound to the scale DNA. Long recognized in other genetic literature, PCR inhibition has only recently been reported in historical studies of fish. This paper provides...
Magnetoresistance of thoriated UBe13

Abstract We have measured the magnetoresistance for the heavy-fermion system U1−xThxBe13 for x=0, 0.006, 0.015, and 0.033 at temperatures between 1.2 K and 6K. The samples with x=0.006 and 0.015 develop a positive magnetoresistance as the temperature is increased above approximately 2 K. We observe the large negative magnetoresistance for the pure UBe13 and the sample with x=0.033, in agreement with the results of previous studies.