cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Infrared Imaging of a Stress-Crazed Polymer

We present experimental data on the stress-crazing of rubber-modified polystyrene under tensile load. The data were obtained by means of the simultaneous imaging of the infrared (IR) transmission through the sample, and the emission from it, during a uniform strain rate experiment. In addition, the stress and strain were also simultaneously measured and all of these results were correlated in time. Sharp changes are seen in the IR transmission and the emitted radiation at the yield point. These changes are attributed to the onset of the crazing. This crazing is detected by what amounts to “stress-whitening”, but in this case using IR radiation rather than visible radiation, to which the polymer is opaque.
Geometry of Masses

A distribution of masses within a bounded set \(E \subset {\mathbb{R}}^{3}\)is described by a measure μ. The symbol dμ(P) is the elemental mass about P as measured by μ.
Benign Mediastinal Germ Cell Tumors

Benign germ cell tumors of the mediastinum are commonly referred to as teratomas. Teratomas are defined as tumors or neoplasms that are composed of tissue that is foreign to the organ or anatomic site in which they arise [1]. The additional requirement that all three germ layers, ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm, be present is often included in a definition of a teratoma. However, this is not an absolute requirement since with incomplete differentiation, one or two of the layers may be missing.
The formation of defects in Fe–Al alloys

Abstract The electrical resistivity (ρ) and specific heat (Cp) were measured for Fe–Al alloys containing 30, 38, 43 and 48 at.% Al having the DO3 (Fe3Al) and the B2 (FeAl) structures using a knife-edge method at 25 °C and by a pulse-heating method from 25 to 1100 °C. The ρ values were identical for a step cooled (over several days) and a quenched (from 1000 °C) condition, except for a slight increase in ρ for the 48 at.% Al alloy when cooled at 1.5 °C/s or quenched. This is believed to be due to the high thermal vacancy concentration for this alloy. Within the DO3 structure composition range, ρ at 25 °C increased with Al content due to filling of holes in the narrow d-band by electrons from the Al atoms. However, in the B2 structure range, ρ decreased with Al content due to less scattering of electrons because of decreasing Fe–Fe nearest neighbor clusters. The ρ and specific heat (Cp) were measured simultaneously using the pulse-heating calorimeter. The ρ–T behavior for these alloys up to 1100 °C was found to resemble the resistivity saturation phenomenon observed for disordered metal alloys, suggesting that the antisite defect influences ρ more than do vacancies. A particularly interesting feature of the ρ–T curves is the decrease in the thermal coefficient of resistance with decreasing Al content, becoming negative for 30 at.% Al. Cp for all alloys showed a marked (e.g., 25%) increase at elevated temperatures, taken to be due to defect formation. The temperature at which the deviation occurred was heating rate dependent. The Cp–T data were used to determine the energy of formation of the defects, which varies linearly from about 130 J/mol at 30 at.% Al to 95 J/mol at 48 at.% Al. Assuming triple defect formation, the vacancy concentration was determined, and found to be in excellent agreement with values in the literature.
Cooperation between Medical Researchers and a Self-Help Movement: The Case of the German Retinitis Pigmentosa Society

In the analysis of how non-scientists can influence the scientific process by promoting cooperation between scientists and non-scientists, the activities of the self-help movement of the German Retinitis Pigmentosa Society is an interesting case. In 1977, when the Society was founded, an inquiry showed that nowhere in Germany was systematic research on the eye disease Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) being carried out. Eight years after its foundation, however, this situation has changed, as can be illustrated by the close contacts maintained between medical researchers and patients and by the existence of the annual meeting of German Retinitis Pigmentosa researchers, which is attached to the annual German Ophthalmological Society Conference. Even more remarkable than this development is the change which the patients have initiated in the concrete research activities of concerned scientists. The aim of this paper is to analyse the circumstances which can explain these developments.
Clinical and endoscopic manifestations of gastrointestinal amyloidosis: a case series.

Gastrointestinal (GI) amyloidosis is rare and has varying clinical and endoscopic presentations. In this case series, we present 3 patients with primary systemic AL amyloidosis and GI involvement. Endoscopic findings in primary AL amyloidosis are not limited to polypoid protrusions with thickened mucosal folds and nodularity, but may include friable mucosa, ulceration, and submucosal hematoma. Gastroenterologists should be familiar with these findings, as they may be the first suggestion of disease and allow for definitive diagnosis.
Worldwide pacemaker and defibrillator reuse: Systematic review and meta-analysis of contemporary trials.

Background Patients go without pacemaker, defibrillator, and cardiac resynchronization therapies (devices) each year due to the prohibitive costs of devices. Objective We sought to examine data available from studies regarding contemporary risks of reused devices in comparison with new devices. Methods We searched online indexing sites to identify recent studies. Peer-reviewed manuscripts reporting infection, malfunction, premature battery depletion, and device-related death with reused devices were included. The primary study outcome was the composite risk of infection, malfunction, premature battery depletion, and death. Secondary outcomes were the individual risks. Results Nine observational studies (published 2009-2017) were identified totaling 2,302 devices (2,017 pacemakers, 285 defibrillators). Five controlled trials were included in meta-analysis (2,114 devices; 1,258 new vs 856 reused). All device reuse protocols employed interrogation to confirm longevity and functionality, disinfectant therapy, and, usually, additional biocidal agents, packaging, and ethylene oxide gas sterilization. Demographic characteristics, indications for pacing, and median follow-up were similar. There were no device-related deaths reported and no statistically significant difference in risk between new versus reused devices for the primary outcome (2.23% vs 3.86% respectively, P = 0.807, odds ratio = 0.76). There were no significant differences seen in the secondary outcomes for the individual risks of infection, malfunction, and premature battery depletion. Conclusions Device reuse utilizing modern protocols did not significantly increase risk of infection, malfunction, premature battery depletion, or device-related death in observational studies. These data provide rationale for proceeding with a prospective multicenter noninferiority randomized control trial.
Commuting behavior and local population loss: Means of transportation to work as an indicator of urban decline

Abstract Prominent urbanists have recently claimed that demographic trends and changing lifestyle preferences will generate population gains in communities whose built environments encourage non-automotive transportation. However, given increasing recognition of the frequent and often persistent appearance of population loss, we assess the converse: Do neighborhood-level affinities for alternative modes of transportation, which we term commuting culture, protect communities from population loss? Through an analysis of census tracts nested within the 50 largest metropolitan areas in the United States, we test whether increasing use of alternative modes is associated with (1) population change and (2) changing odds of population loss as a dichotomous outcome variable. We further examine the interaction between population density and commuter mode choice on population change 2000–2010. We find higher utilization of alternative modes of transportation have different effects, particularly when examined across density levels. We find that bus use and biking are associated with increased odds of population loss in all but the densest neighborhoods, where walking is associated with decreased odds of loss. Light rail utilization, on the contrary, insulates against loss regardless of tract density. These findings should be relevant for planners and place makers promoting accessibility-first programs of neighborhood renewal.
Chimeric tumor modeling reveals role of partial PDL1 expression in resistance to virally induced immunotherapy.

Expression of PDL1 on the surface of tumor cells can blunt the efficacy of many cancer immunotherapies. For example, our lab has previously shown that tumors derived from malignant cells incapable of expressing PDL1 are highly susceptible to immunotherapy induced by oncolytic virus treatment while tumors derived from PDL1 capable cells are highly resistant. In patient biopsies, however, expression of PDL1 on malignant cells is often not uniform with some cells expressing PDL1 while others do not. Importantly, how this partial PDL1 positivity influences the outcomes of immunotherapy remains largely unknown. In the current work, we expand on our previous findings by generating partially PDL1 positive tumors in immune competent animals and asking what percentage of tumor cells must express PDL1 for a tumor to become functionally resistant to oncolytic treatment. Our results indicate that the responsiveness of partially PDL1+ tumors correlates linearly with the percentage of PDL1 capable cells present at the initiation of treatment. Additionally, we observe that tumors which relapse after treatment display a significant increase in the numbers of PDL1 capable cells present suggesting that specific editing of mixed tumors might play a role in disease relapse. These data indicate that varying levels of PDL1 expression can play a significant role in the outcomes of oncolytic immunotherapy and challenges the concept that tumors should be viewed as simply PDL1+ or PDL1−.
The V122I Mutation in Hereditary Transthyretin-Mediated Amyloidosis is Significantly Associated with Polyneuropathy

Introduction Hereditary transthyretin-mediated (hATTR) amyloidosis is a progressively debilitating, fatal disease caused by mutations in the transthyretin (TTR) gene that lead to amyloid deposition in multiple tissues, including peripheral nerves and heart. Historically, patients were identified by their predominant phenotype (polyneuropathy or cardiomyopathy), however, evidence now suggests that a majority develop a mixed phenotype with both polyneuropathy and cardiomyopathy. The V122I (Val122Ile; p.V142I) variant is the most common pathogenic TTR mutation in the US, primarily found in individuals of West African descent, and is thought to be predominantly associated with cardiomyopathy. This analysis characterizes the association between V122I genotype and ICD10 diagnosis codes in the black subpopulation of UK Biobank (UKBB) with replication in the Penn Medicine Biobank (PMBB). Methods The UKBB is a prospective cohort study with genetic, physical and health data on ∼500,000 individuals across the United Kingdom. A phenome wide association study was performed to test for association between the V122I genotype and 1,229 clinical diagnoses in the black subpopulation of UKBB (n=6,063). Results Individuals heterozygous or homozygous for V122I (n=387) were identified and were primarily of African or Caribbean descent (minor allele frequency in black subpopulation = 2%; baseline age: 40-70 years). This analysis revealed a significant association between the V122I genotype and a clinical diagnosis of polyneuropathy (OR = 11.2; 95% CI: 3.7-26.6; p=1.1 × 10-6). Of note, these V122I carriers were not diagnosed with diabetic neuropathy. Replication analysis was performed in 5,737 black participants of the PMBB, of whom 190 individuals carried the V122I variant. The association of V122I with polyneuropathy was replicated (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.2-2.4; p=0.006). In addition, there was nominally significant evidence that V122I carriers are at increased risk of other symptoms of hATTR amyloidosis, including carpal tunnel syndrome (OR = 2.0; p=0.02) and urinary retention (OR = 2.1; p=0.05) within the UKBB. Conclusion These data indicate that carriers of the V122I mutation, historically associated with a predominantly cardiac phenotype, have a significantly increased risk of a clinical diagnosis of polyneuropathy. Additional manifestations were identified, highlighting that V122I causes a mixed phenotype. It is crucial that physicians have a clinical suspicion for the multisystem manifestations of hATTR amyloidosis, which includes both cardiomyopathy and polyneuropathy.
Comparison of 1-field, 2-fields, and 3-fields fundus photography for detection and grading of diabetic retinopathy

Abstract Aim To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of 1-, 2-, and 3-fields, nonmydriatic (NM), 45° color photography compared with mydriatic ophthalmoscopy for detection of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Methods Masked, comparative case series was performed utilizing a group of 128 diabetic patients (256 eyes) with various stages of DR who underwent both 3-fields NM color photography and ophthalmologic examination. In a blinded manner, the same optometrist who read the original 3-fields images for a patient read the 1- and 2-fields photographs on separate dates later. Results The sensitivity and specificity of digital retinal photography compared with dilated ophthalmoscopy were, respectively: 88% and 76% for 1-field; 94% and 69% for 2-fields; and 100% and 79% for 3-fields. The proportion of agreement between fundus photography reading and exam DR diagnosis were 58% for 1-field, 58% for 2-fields, and 77% for 3-fields. Kappa and Cramer's V statistics for 1-, 2-, and 3-fields were 0.55 and 0.60, 0.52 and 0.57, and 0.72 and 0.74, respectively. Three-fields measurement of DR was most similar to the dilated ophthalmological exam overall and across all DR severity levels. Conclusions Compared to 1- and 2-fields fundus photography, 3-fields is superior for detecting vision-threatening DR. One- and 2-fields have reasonable sensitivity for DR screening.
Single-molecule imaging of a three-component ordered actin disassembly mechanism

The mechanisms by which cells destabilize and rapidly disassemble filamentous actin networks have remained elusive; however, Coronin, Cofilin and AIP1 have been implicated in this process. Here using multi-wavelength single-molecule fluorescence imaging, we show that mammalian Cor1B, Cof1 and AIP1 work in concert through a temporally ordered pathway to induce highly efficient severing and disassembly of actin filaments. Cor1B binds to filaments first, and dramatically accelerates the subsequent binding of Cof1, leading to heavily decorated, stabilized filaments. Cof1 in turn recruits AIP1, which rapidly triggers severing and remains bound to the newly generated barbed ends. New growth at barbed ends generated by severing was blocked specifically in the presence of all three proteins. This activity enabled us to reconstitute and directly visualize single actin filaments being rapidly polymerized by formins at their barbed ends while simultanteously being stochastically severed and capped along their lengths, and disassembled from their pointed ends.
Two coastal Pacific evergreens, Arbutus menziesii, Pursh. and Quercus agrifolia, Née show little water stress during California's exceptional drought

California's coastal climate is characterized by rainy winters followed by a dry summer season that is supplemented by frequent fog. While rising temperatures and drought caused massive tree mortality in central California during the 2011-2015 extreme drought, dying trees were less common in the central coast region. We hypothesized that cooler, maritime-ameliorated temperatures reduced the effects of drought stress on coastal vegetation. To test this, weekly measurements of water potential and stomatal conductance were made on two coast evergreen tree species, Arbutus menziesii and Quercus agrifolia, throughout the summer 2014 dry season. Water potential remained generally constant during this period but stomatal conductance declined in both species as the dry season progressed. Species' resistance to embolism was determined using the centrifuge method, and showed Q. agrifolia to be more vulnerable to embolism than A. menziesii. The stem vulnerability curves were consistent with species' seasonal water relations as well as their anatomy; the ring-porous Q. agrifolia had substantially larger conduits than the diffuse-porous A. menziesii. Leaf turgor loss points differed significantly as did other pressure-volume parameters but these data were consistent with the trees' seasonal water relations. Overall, the two species appear to employ differing water use strategies; A. menziesii is more profligate in its water use, while Q. agrifolia is more conservative, with a narrower safety margin against drought-induced loss of xylem transport capacity. Despite the extended drought, these species exhibited neither branch die-back nor any obvious symptoms of pronounced water-stress during the study period, implying that the maritime climate of California's central coast may buffer the local vegetation against the severe effects of prolonged drought.
Solubility and diffusivity of H2 and CO2 in the ionic liquid [bmim][PF6]

Abstract We report on the measurement of the solubility and diffusivity of H2 and CO2 in the ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([bmim][PF6]) over the temperature range 25 °C–55 °C and for pressures of up to 10 MPa. The data were obtained using a magnetic suspension balance, a gravimetric instrument that is capable of simultaneously and accurately measuring the gas solubility and diffusivity in such liquids. To our knowledge, this is the first time that the H2 diffusivity has been measured in an ionic liquid. While solubility data for H2 have been previously reported, they vary widely. The cause for such variations is discussed as well. The diffusivity data for both H2 and CO2 follow an Arrhenius-like dependence on temperature.
Alleviating effects of the mixture of Elaeagnus multiflora and Cynanchum wilfordii extracts on testosterone deficiency syndrome

Testosterone deficiency syndrome (TDS), also known as late-onset hypogonadism, is a clinical and biochemical syndrome associated with advanced age and characterized by deficient serum testosterone levels. The Elaeagnus multiflora fruit (EMF) and Cynanchum wilfordii (CW) have been used in traditional herbal medicine. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of EMF and CW mixtures (at the ratios of 3:7, 5:5, and 7:3) on TDS using TM3 cells and aging male rats. EMF, and mixtures of EMF and CW (at the ratios of 3:7, 5:5, and 7:3) significantly increased testosterone levels in TM3 cells (p <0.05). The rats were orally administered EMCW (EMF and CW mixed at the ratio of 3:7 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg/day) for 4 weeks consecutively. After 4 weeks of EMCW administration, latency time on the rotarod test, and serum testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels were significantly increased (p <0.05 and p <0.01). Moreover, the levels of globulin-bound sex hormones were decreased in the EMCW-fed groups. However, prostate-specific antigen levels did not differ among the groups. These results suggest that EMCW can be effectively used to alleviate TDS.
Toward a pluralistic vision of methodology

The discussion of qualitative and quantitative research methods in political science has followed a “long arc of development,” according to Andrew Bennett (this symposium). He sees our book Rethinking Social Inquiry: Diverse Tools, Standards (RSI) as a “key turning point” in this development and as contributing to a more pluralistic vision of methodology. We would certainly be gratified if we have indeed made this contribution. Yet this is an ongoing discussion, and this symposium points to fruitful directions this discussion can take.
Views of Revelation

In this chapter three types of views of revelation are examined. Tradition-grounded views concentrate on forms of traditional revelation, classifying revelation by phenomenal medium (such as dreams or voices) or content (such as commands or divine remonstration) or whether it is foundational or not. Second, there are “embracive” views of revelation, which extend the boundaries of religious revelation to include what is not traditionally seen as revelation. The embracive views of Friedrich Schleiermacher and Bishop George Berkeley are considered, a third type of view is ontological. Three ontological views of revelation are identified: revelation is of religious reality, revelation is of human origin, and revelation has both a human and a divine element. Unmodified these three ontological views are mutually exclusive, but suitably modified, it is argued, they are compatible.
Early intervention of atopic dermatitis as a preventive strategy for progression of food allergy.

Atopic diseases, such as atopic dermatitis (AD) and food allergy (FA), have increased in prevalence in industrialized countries during the past few decades and pose a significant health burden. They appear to have a common underlying mechanism and a natural disease progression. AD is generally the first atopic disease to manifest followed by other atopic diseases, such as FA, allergic rhinitis, or allergic asthma suggesting that they are likely different manifestations of the same disease. Evidence suggests that allergic sensitization occurs through an impaired skin barrier, while consumption of these foods at an early age may actually result in tolerance. This has been termed the Dual-Allergen-Exposure hypothesis. Loss of barrier integrity has been hypothesized to enable penetration of allergens, pollutants, and microbes and initiation of an inflammatory immune cascade of events leading to sensitization. The immune dysfunction is thought to further exacerbate the impaired skin barrier to form a vicious cycle. There is much interest in preventing or protecting the skin barrier from developing a proinflammatory atopic state, which may potentially lead to the development of AD and subsequently, FA. Research on preventing or treating skin barrier dysfunction is ongoing. A number of studies have evaluated the efficacy of emollients in preventing AD and FA with mixed results. Studies have differed in the study design, population characteristics, emollients type, and frequency, duration, and area of application. Emollient type has varied widely from oils, creams, petrolatum-based lotions, and trilipid creams. Current research is directed towards the use of trilipid emollients that are similar to the skin’s natural lipid composition with a 3:1:1 ratio of ceramides, cholesterol and free fatty acids and a pH that is similar to that of skin to determine their effectiveness for skin barrier repair and prevention of AD and FA.
Punched in the Stomach

His father dreamt of him before his birth and knew the author was stronger than he thought himself to be. The universe and father received the boy completely, but at school the kids bullied him and called the child names even though they needed him during classroom activities. As a preventive measure to bullying, his father enrolled them both in karate classes, but Marcus did not like its severe approach to training and had to leave. In high school, Marcus joined the Drama Club, became a thespian and joyfully wrote and performed in plays. Now the young man wonders had he completed karate training and withstood the pain, would he now be a different kind of survivor, a tougher one with great command over feelings?
Virtual group visits to reduce psychosocial distress and racial disparities in pediatric vitiligo and alopecia areata patients

We examined the potential for virtual, pediatric group visits to reduce racial disparities in psychosocial isolation and access to care among children of color with pediatric vitiligo and alopecia areata as well as their caregivers. We have conducted 10 visits with 30 pediatric skin of color patients between 5 and 16 years old: 18 patients with alopecia areata, 12 with vitiligo, 59% female, 64% Black, and 23% Latinx, and 33 parents. After the visits, children and parents felt they had more people they knew and could reach out to about their dermatologic condition, the visits exceeded both children's and parents' expectations, and both children and parents reported that they would continue attending future group visits if offered. Group visits in the virtual format may present an opportunity for reducing racial disparities in psychosocial isolation and access to care across geographic locations in pediatric dermatology.
Analyzing Twitter chatter about tobacco use within intoxication-related contexts of alcohol use: "Can someone tell me why nicotine is so fire when you're drunk?"

INTRODUCTION Alcohol and tobacco are commonly used together. Social influences within online social networking platforms contribute to youth and young adult substance use behaviors. This study used a sample of alcohol- and tobacco-related tweets to evaluate: (1) sentiment toward co-use of alcohol and tobacco, (2) increased susceptibility to tobacco use when consuming alcohol, and (3) the role of alcohol in contributing to a failed attempt to quit tobacco use. METHODS Data were collected from the Twitter API from 2019-01-01 through 2019-12-31 using tobacco-related keywords (e.g., vape, ecig, smoking, juul*) and alcohol-related filters (e.g., drunk, blackout*). A total of 78,235 tweets were collected, from which a random subsample (n = 1,564) was drawn for coding. Cohen's Kappa values ranged from 0.66-0.99. RESULTS Most tweets were pro co-use of alcohol and tobacco (75%). One of every ten tweets reported increased susceptibility to tobacco use when intoxicated. Non-regular tobacco users reported cravings for and tobacco use when consuming alcohol despite disliking tobacco use factors such as the taste, smell, and/or negative health effects. Regular tobacco users reported using markedly higher quantities of tobacco when intoxicated. Individuals discussed the role of alcohol undermining tobacco cessation attempts less often (2.0%), though some who had quit smoking for prolonged periods of time reported reinitiating tobacco use during acute intoxication episodes. CONCLUSIONS Tobacco cessation interventions may benefit from including alcohol-focused components designed to educate participants about the association between increased susceptibility to tobacco use when consuming alcohol and the role of alcohol in undermining tobacco cessation attempts. IMPLICATIONS Sentiment toward co-use of alcohol and tobacco on Twitter is largely positive. Individuals reported regret about using tobacco, or using more than intended, when intoxicated. Those who had quit smoking or vaping for prolonged periods of time reported reinitiating tobacco use when consuming alcohol. While social media-based tobacco cessation interventions like the Truth Initiative's "Ditch the Juul" campaign demonstrate potential to change tobacco use behaviors, these campaigns may benefit from including alcohol-focused components designed to educate participants about the association between increased susceptibility to tobacco use when consuming alcohol and the role of alcohol in undermining tobacco cessation attempts.
Clinical evaluation of injectable biodegradable contraceptive system

Abstract A new long acting injectable contraceptive system was tested in 24 women. The system consists of microspheres made of biodegradable d,l -polylactic acid in which micronized crystals of norethisterone (NET) are homogeneously dispersed. In previous animal studies we showed that NET is slowly released from the microspheres for 6 months, and after the drug is released, the microspheres biodegrade into lactic acid by the process of hydrolysis. The serum levels of NET, estrogen, and progesterone were monitored by radioimmunoassay, and the effects of treatment on ovarian function and menstrual bleeding were evaluated. The doses ranged from 29 to 370 mg of microspheres containing 7.25 to 94.5 mg of NET or 0.134 to 2.30 mg of NET/kg of body weight. The duration of the NET release was 6 months, and the serum NET profiles in women were similar to those previously described in subhuman primates. Following a small burst, there was a gradual decline in the serum levels of NET over 6 months after treatment. The serum levels of NET varied in propose of the dose. Doses less than 0.267 mg of NET/kg had no discemible effect on either ovarian function or menstrual bleeding. Doses ranging from 0.419 to 2.30 mg had variable effects on ovarian function and menstrual bleeding. Higher doses caused suppression of ovarian function for longer periods of time, increased the interval between episodes of menstrual bleeding, and decreased the quantity of blood loss during each episode. The treatment was well tolerated by all subjects, and, with the exception of spotting and irregular menstrual cycles, there were no adverse side effects. Based on this initial study, it was determined that doses ranging from 1.33 to 3.45 mg of NET/kg are necessary to suppress ovulation for 6 months. Additional studies with the use of higher doses are currently under way.
ELECTROCARDIOGRAPHIC STUDIES IN CHILDREN WITH LEAD POISONING

Electrocardiographic studies before and after treatment were performed in 30 children with lead poisoning. It was found that abnormal electrocardiograms were present in 70% of the patients on admission. After completion of therapy, the electrocardiographic findings remained abnormal in only four (13%) of the patients. The abnormalities described most likely represent myocardial damage. It is proposed that a cardiovascular evaluation should be made as a routine procedure in every child with lead poisoning.
Projectile metallic foreign bodies in the orbit: a retrospective study of epidemiologic factors, management, and outcomes.

Purpose: Intraorbital projectile metallic foreign bodies are associated with significant ocular and orbital injuries. The authors sought to evaluate epidemiologic factors, the incidence of associated ocular and orbital injury, and the nature and necessity of surgical intervention in these cases. Methods: Charts of all patients with projectile intraorbital metallic foreign bodies seen at our institution (27) over the preceding 7 years were evaluated with respect to age, sex, type of injury, associated ocular and orbital injuries, location of the projectile (anterior, epibulbar, or posterior), postinjury visual acuity, and surgical intervention. Results: The majority of patients were male, between the ages of 11 and 30, and had BB pellet injuries. Thirteen projectiles were lodged anteriorly, 4 were in an epibulbar position, and the remaining 10 were posterior to the equator. Twelve of 13 anterior, and 4 of 4 epibulbar foreign bodies were removed surgically, whereas only 2 of 10 posterior foreign bodies required surgery. No case of surgical intervention resulted in a decrease of visual acuity. Associated ocular injuries were both more common and severe in patients with posteriorly located foreign bodies. Final visual acuity was better at presentation and at discharge in patients with anteriorly located foreign bodies. Conclusion: Intraorbital projectile metallic foreign bodies can be a source of significant ocular morbidity. Management of these cases is dependent on the location of the projectile. Ancillary radiographic studies can be helpful. Surgery to remove the projectile should be considered in each case, but foreign bodies that are not readily accessible often may be left safely in place. Closer regulation of the pellet gun industry, with an emphasis on education and protective eyewear use, would be helpful in reducing these injuries.
Prevention of short-term ultraviolet B radiation-mediated damages by resveratrol in SKH-1 hairless mice.

Abstract Nonmelanoma skin cancer is the most common cancer among humans and solar UV radiation, particularly its UVB component (290–320 nm), is its major cause. One way to reduce the occurrence of the cancer is via the use of substances (often antioxidants) termed “photochemopreventive agents”. Resveratrol (trans-3,4′,5-trihydroxystilbene), a phytoalexin found in grapes, nuts, fruits, and red wine, is a potent antioxidant with strong anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties. This study was designed to examine whether resveratrol possesses the potential to ameliorate the damages caused by short-term UVB exposure to mouse skin. Single topical application of resveratrol (25 μmol/0.2 ml acetone per mouse) to SKH-1 hairless mice was found to result in significant inhibition of UVB (180 mJ/cm2)-mediated increase in bifold skin thickness and skin edema. The resveratrol treatment to mouse skin was also found to result in significant inhibition of UVB-mediated induction of cyclooxygenase and ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) enzyme activities and protein expression of ODC, which are well-established markers for tumor promotion. We also observed that resveratrol inhibits UVB-mediated increased level of lipid peroxidation, a marker of oxidative stress. Taken together, our results suggest that resveratrol may afford substantial protection against the damages caused by UVB exposure, and these protective effects may be mediated via its antioxidant properties.
Age-Specific Patterns of Genetic Variance in Drosophila Melanogaster. II. Fecundity and Its Genetic Covariance with Age-Specific Mortality

Under the mutation accumulation model of senescence, it was predicted that the additive genetic variance (V(A)) for fitness traits will increase with age. We measured age-specific mortality and fecundity from 65,134 Drosophila melanogaster and estimated genetic variance components, based on reciprocal crosses of extracted second chromosome lines. Elsewhere we report the results for mortality. Here, for fecundity, we report a bimodal pattern for V(A) with peaks at 3 days and at 17-31 days. Under the antagonistic pleiotropy model of senescence, it was predicted that negative correlations will exist between early and late life history traits. For fecundity itself we find positive genetic correlations among age classes >3 days but negative nonsignificant correlations between fecundity at 3 days and at older age classes. For fecundity vs. age-specific mortality, we find positive fitness correlations (negative genetic correlations) among the traits at all ages >3 days but a negative fitness correlation between fecundity at 3 days and mortality at the oldest ages (positive genetic correlations). For age-specific mortality itself we find overwhelmingly positive genetic correlations among all age classes. The data suggest that mutation accumulation may be a major source of standing genetic variance for senescence.
Journal Club: Pretreatment EEG in childhood absence epilepsy

Childhood absence epilepsy (CAE) is defined by absence seizures in a normally developing child, with onset between 4 and 10 years of age.1 Typical absence seizures consist of behavioral arrest with or without automatisms, usually last 30–60 seconds, and demonstrate a characteristic 3-Hz generalized spike-wave (GSW) pattern on EEG, often in response to hyperventilation.2 Children may have hundreds of episodes daily, many of them subclinical, which can impair sustained attention and memory processing. There is a strong association between CAE and disorders of attention and executive function. This association persists even when seizures are well-controlled. An underlying structural or functional abnormality of the brain has been postulated to explain both observations.3,4 This article by Dlugos et al.5 is a post hoc analysis of a randomized, double-blinded trial6 that seeks to characterize the relationship between EEG characteristics prior to treatment, measures of attention, and the outcome of initial antiepileptic treatment.
A method for the determination of nitrogen in clays, with application to the burial diagenesis of shales

A new operationally defined method for the measurement of fixed inorganic nitrogen (N[sub fix]) associated with clays has been tested and applied to a sequence of mixed-layer illite/smectite (I/S) (ranging from 40 to 68% illite in I/S) in shales from a drill site in Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana. This new method has distinct advantages over other methods in that it is simple and can accommodate small sample sizes (10 mg). N[sub fix] is measured, using a carbon-nitrogen analyzer, on a sample that has been ashed for 8 hr at 450 C to remove organic and non-fixed inorganic nitrogen. Total nitrogen is measured on an separate untreated sample. Content of organic carbon and nitrogen can be assessed by the weight-percent difference between untreated and ashed samples. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the presence of nitrogen as ammonium in untreated and heat-treated samples. N[sub fix] content of the < 0.2 [mu]m fraction of the shale sequence correlates positively (R[sup 2] = 0.91) with the percent of illite in the mixed-layer I/S. Corresponding with the increase in percent of illite in I/S with depth, an increase in N[sub fix] content is also seen with increasing depth of burial. Nitrogen from thermal breakdown of organic-matter duringmore » later diagenesis probably provides the N[sub fix] found in I/S. In the range of diagenesis studied here, N[sub fix] concentration appears to depend on the available fixing capacity of illite. Because nitrogen content varies with organic-matter type, however, caution should be used when assuming this relationship for other diagenetic environments.« less
Free Radical Copolymerization of ω-(p-Vinylbenzyl Ether) Macromonomer of Poly(2,6-Dimethyl-1,4- Phenylene Oxide) with Methyl Methacrylate in the Presence of Different Initiators

The free radical copolymerization of ω-(p-vinylbenzyl ether) macromonomer of poly(2, 6-dimethyl-l&-phenylene oxide) (PPO-VBE, M2, [Mbar]n = 18300 g/mol, [Mbar]w/[Mbar]n = 1.19) with methyl methacry...
Alcohol-related fan behavior on college football game day.

High-risk drinking on game day represents a unique public health challenge. Objective: The authors examined the drinking behavior of college football fans and assessed the support for related interventions. Participants: The authors randomly selected 762 football fans, including college students, alumni, and other college football fans, to complete an anonymous online game-day survey. Methods: The authors collected data on participants' drinking behaviors and support for specific game-day interventions. Results: Analysis revealed that, overall, fans drank significantly more on game day than they did the last time they partied or socialized. Nondrinkers were the most supportive of game-day interventions, followed by moderate drinkers, whereas heavy drinkers offered the least support. Conclusions: With the exception of limiting tailgating hours on game day, fans support game-day interventions, including alcohol-free alternatives, designating tailgating areas where open containers are permitted, and increasi...
Toilet tales: stool toileting refusal, encopresis, and fecal incontinence

Defecation difficulties in children present as stool toileting refusal, encopresis (caused by idiopathic or functional constipation), or fecal incontinence (caused by anatomic or neurologic disorders). The appropriate evaluation, treatment, and expected treatment results for children with stool soiling are presented.
The Epidemiology of Sepsis in Patients With Malignancy

Study objectives To evaluate the longitudinal epidemiology of sepsis in patients with a history of cancer and to specifically examine sepsis-related disparities in risk or outcome. Design Sepsis cases from 1979 through 2001 using a nationally representative sample of nonfederal acute-care hospitalizations in the United States (the National Hospital Discharge Survey) integrated with cancer prevalence from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Setting Eight hundred fifty-four million acute-care hospitalizations and 8.9 million patients with cancer. Patients or participants Patients with a history of cancer hospitalized with a diagnosis of sepsis. Measurements and results From 1979 to 2001, there were a total of 1,781,445 cases of sepsis in patients with cancer, yielding a mean annual incidence rate of 1,465 cases per 100,000 cancer patients and a relative risk [RR] of 9.77 compared to noncancer patients (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 9.67 to 9.88). In contrast to the absolute number of cases, the incidence rate of sepsis decreased over time, from a peak of 1,959 cases per 100,000 cancer patients in 1987 to 995 cases per 100,000 in 2001. The distribution of infectious sources causing sepsis was associated with the type of malignancy. White cancer patients had a lower risk for sepsis compared to nonwhites (African-American RR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.16 to 1.40) and other races (RR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.22 to 1.72); and male cancer patients had a higher risk for sepsis compared to female cancer patients (male RR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.10 to 1.23). Cancer was an independent predictor of death among sepsis patients by multivariable analysis (adjusted odds ratio for death, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.97 to 1.99). Conclusions Patients with a history of cancer are at increased risk for acquiring and subsequently dying from sepsis, compared to the general population, although incidence and fatality rates are decreasing over time. There are significant racial and gender disparities in the incidence and outcome of sepsis among cancer patients that require explanation.
Opposite roles for p38MAPK-driven responses and reactive oxygen species in the persistence and resolution of radiation-induced genomic instability.

We report the functional and temporal relationship between cellular phenotypes such as oxidative stress, p38MAPK-dependent responses and genomic instability persisting in the progeny of cells exposed to sparsely ionizing low-Linear Energy Transfer (LET) radiation such as X-rays or high-charge and high-energy (HZE) particle high-LET radiation such as 56Fe ions. We found that exposure to low and high-LET radiation increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels as a threshold-like response induced independently of radiation quality and dose. This response was sustained for two weeks, which is the period of time when genomic instability is evidenced by increased micronucleus formation frequency and DNA damage associated foci. Indicators for another persisting response sharing phenotypes with stress-induced senescence, including beta galactosidase induction, increased nuclear size, p38MAPK activation and IL-8 production, were induced in the absence of cell proliferation arrest during the first, but not the second week following exposure to high-LET radiation. This response was driven by a p38MAPK-dependent mechanism and was affected by radiation quality and dose. This stress response and elevation of ROS affected genomic instability by distinct pathways. Through interference with p38MAPK activity, we show that radiation-induced stress phenotypes promote genomic instability. In contrast, exposure to physiologically relevant doses of hydrogen peroxide or increasing endogenous ROS levels with a catalase inhibitor reduced the level of genomic instability. Our results implicate persistently elevated ROS following exposure to radiation as a factor contributing to genome stabilization.
The cervical spine in the skeletal dysplasias and associated disorders.

The cervical spine is an especially important area, not only for the diagnosis of the skeletal dysplasias, but also for the management of the patient. By the “cervical spine” I refer not only to the vertebral bodies and posterior elements of this region, but also to the neural elements contained within, especially the cervical cord. The spine is supported by a group of ligaments both anteriorly and posteriorly, with special fixation of the odontoid and C2 by a ligament which normally affixes it firmly to C1. Multiple things may go wrong with the development of the cervical spine. There may be abnormal development of the “vertebrae” in this region, ranging from hypoplasia to developmental failure and/or abnormal ossification of the cervical vertebrae; associated or unassociated odontoid hypoplasia; poor ligamental fixation of C2 resulting in C1–2 subluxation; abnormal development of the posterior processes; abnormal ligamental development or laxity with abnormal cervical kyphosis or lordosis; and, in the case of more fragile/brittle bone development (osteoporosis or increased bone density), fractures can lead to cervical spine problems. The skeletal dysplasias that involve cervical spine problems constitute about 35 of the 150 well-described disorders. These include certain families of disorders like the type II collagenopathies, as well as many individual disorders. It is very important for the clinician to be able to pilot patients through the various appropriate imaging modalities – conventional radiographs of the cervical spine; lateral flexion/extension views; CT; MRI – so that proper management and therapy will result.
Liquid flow through microchannels with grooved walls under wetting and superhydrophobic conditions

Recent developments in superhydrophobic surfaces have enabled significant reduction in the frictional drag for liquid flow through microchannels. There is an apparent risk when using such surfaces, however, that under some conditions the liquid meniscus may destabilize and, consequently, the liquid will wet the entire patterned surface. This paper presents analytical and experimental results that compare the laminar flow dynamics through microchannels with superhydrophobic walls featuring ribs and cavities oriented both parallel and transverse to the direction of flow under both wetting and non-wetting conditions. The results show the reduction in the total frictional resistance is much greater in channels when the liquid phase does not enter the cavity regions. Further, it is demonstrated that the wetting and non-wetting cavity results represent limiting cases between which the experimental data lie. Generalized expressions enabling prediction of the classical friction factor-Reynolds number product as a function of the relevant governing dimensionless parameters are also presented for both the superhydrophobic and wetting states. Experimental results are presented for a range of parameters in the laminar flow regime.
Protein changes in CSF of HIV-infected patients: evidence for loss of neuroprotection

To begin to unravel the complexity of HIV-associated changes in the brain, broader, multifaceted analyses of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are needed that examine a wide range of proteins reflecting different functions. To provide the first broad profiles of protein changes in the CSF of HIV-infected patients, we used antibody arrays to measure 120 cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and other proteins. CSF from HIV-infected patients with a range of cognitive deficits was compared to CSF from uninfected, cognitively normal patients to begin to identify protein changes associated with HIV infection and neurological disease progression. Uninfected patients showed relatively consistent patterns of protein expression. Highly expressed proteins in CSF included monocyte chemotactic protein-1, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteases, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, adiponectin, soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor-1, urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor, and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-2. Inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines were expressed at low levels. HIV-infected patients showed increases in inflammatory proteins (interferon-gamma, tumor necrosis factor-alpha), anti-inflammatory proteins (IL-13), and chemokines but these correlated poorly with neurological status. The strongest correlation with increasing severity of neurological disease was a decline in growth factors, particularly, brain-derived neurotrophic factor and NT-3. These studies illustrate that HIV infection is associated with parallel changes in both inflammatory and neuroprotective proteins in the CSF. The inverse relationship between growth factors and neurological disease severity suggests that a loss of growth factor neuroprotection may contribute to the development of neural damage and may provide useful markers of disease progression.