cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Erosion of efficiency in non‐uniform linear chromatography

In linear chromatography (i.e. chromatography performed in the absence of sample overloading), when the plate height of a column is roughly uniform along its length, variations in the velocities of solutes are the only possible causes of erosion of efficiency. The sources of these variations (variations in capacity ratio and in the density of the mobile phase, etc.) play no direct role in the erosion of efficiency except through their effect on solute velocities. In other words, what eventually causes the erosion of efficiency is merely variation in the time required for solutes to traverse equally small segments of a column. Significant erosion can only arise from abrupt and deep deceleration of solutes in one or several relatively small segments of a column. If erosion of efficiency caused by pressure gradients in linear SFC is to be large, the depth and the sharpness of the deceleration of a solute must go beyond that hitherto confirmed experimentally. Many relevant examples are analyzed graphically.
Polyamines and NMDA receptors modulate pericapillary astrocyte swelling following cerebral cryo-injury in the rat.

Four hours following cryo-injury rat cerebral pericapillary astrocytes from the perilesional area were markedly swollen occupying 17% of the pericapillary space as compared to 11% in sham operated controls. Ornithine decarboxylase activity and polyamine levels were increased over sham controls. The astrocytic swelling, the percentage of the pericapillary space occupied by astrocytic processes, and polyamine levels were reduced to near control levels by the following: (1) α-difluoromethylornithine; (2) Ifenprodil; and (3) MK-801. α-Difluoromethylornithine is a specific inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase, Ifenprodil is an inhibitor of the polyamine binding site on the n-methyl-d-aspartate receptor, and MK-801 is an antagonist to n-methyl-d-aspartate binding to the n-methyl-d-aspartate receptor. Addition of putrescine, the product of ornithine decarboxylase activity, reversed the effect of α-difluoromethylornithine and restored the pericapillary swelling. Putrescine did not affect the MK-801-induced reduction in pericapillary astrocytic swelling. Therefore, polyamines and the n-methyl-d-aspartate receptor modulate excitotoxic responses to cryo-injury in pericapillary cerebral astrocytes.
A Rational Use of Immune Enhancing Diets: When Should We Use Dietary Arginine Supplementation?:

Controversies in any arena of human activity often result in the polarization of the individuals involved into 2 opposing camps. Controversy about the use of immune-enhancing diets (IEDs) is no exception. On one hand, some groups are proposing indiscriminate use of IEDs, whereas others have created guidelines advocating that their use should be banned for the critically ill. At stake is an emerging paradigm: that dietary manipulation of the immune system is possible and may become an important adjunct to other therapies, thus helping prevent or treat multiple diseases for millions worldwide. Under these circumstances, extremist claims of miraculous benefits or inappropriate assertions of evil can only delay the emergence of a nascent science. This paper is therefore a plea for moderation from both camps, lest we cause irreparable damage to our clinical practices and potential injury to individual patients.IEDs all contain arginine. However, they also contain other substances such as ω-3 fatty acids, and n...
Analysis of Beam Propagation in 90-degree Holographic Recording and Readout Using Transfer Functions and Numerical 2-D-Laplace Inversion

Recently, 2-D-Laplace analysis of recording and readout of edge-holograms was reported. Numerical Laplace inversion was examined for simple test cases. Inversion algorithms are applied to examine beam shaping and distortion in photovoltaic and photorefractive materials.
Protein Glycosylation and Advanced Glycosylated Endproducts (AGEs) Accumulation: An Avian Solution?

The objectives of this study were to determine the effect of diet restriction (DR) and the crosslinking inhibitor, aminoguanidine (AG), on PMA-induced respiratory burst, concentrations of uric acid, and the rate of pentosidine accumulation in the skin (Ps) of naturally hyperglycemic broiler breeder hens. Female chicks (n = 450) were randomly assigned to four groups from 8 to 92 weeks after hatch: ad libitum (AL), diet restricted (DR), AL and DR groups supplemented with 400 ppm AG each (AL + AG and DR + AG). No consistent effects of treatments were observed on plasma concentrations of glucose. The accumulation of Ps in AL birds increased linearly with age (p < .001) and was significantly retarded in all treatment groups (p < .001). Ps in the AL + AG group was comparable to that in the DR or DR + AG groups. PMA-induced respiratory bursts in blood leukocytes were significantly retarded in DR or AG-supplemented (p < .0001) groups. Although there was a marginal increase in overall mean concentrations of plasma uric acid for the DR group, no consistent differences were observed on individual time points. It is concluded that the glycosylation process may not be the primary cause of glucose-derived crosslinks and that the accumulation of Ps can be retarded by DR and AG in broiler breeder hens.
Design and evaluation of a null lens for testing the optical performance of silicone intraocular lenses

A two-element null lens, optimized for a 20-diopter silicone intraocular lens (IOL), was designed and tested. The performance of the null lens was examined for silicone IOL's with in situ powers from 16 to 24 diopters. Improvements in resolution, resolution efficiency, and modulation transfer function were obtained over the tested power range.
Toward a Comprehensive Theory for Alzheimer's Disease. Hypothesis: Alzheimer's Disease Is Caused by the Cerebral Accumulation and Cytotoxicity of Amyloid β-Protein

A central challenge of research on Alzheimer's disease (AD) is to assemble the enormous body of scientific observations about the disorder, some of them seemingly in conflict with others, into a coherent and credible mechanism of pathogenesis. In this article, I attempt to synthesize the disparate findings on AD into a unified sequence that essentially begins with alterations in the production or clearance of the amyloid beta-protein (A beta). Mounting evidence from many laboratories supports an A beta accumulation in limbic and association cortices as the fundamental initiator of the disease, with attendant therapeutic implications.
A note on the MIR closure

In 1988, Nemhauser and Wolsey introduced the concept of MIR inequality for mixed integer linear programs. In 1998, Wolsey gave another definition of MIR inequalities. This note points out that the natural concepts of MIR closures derived from these two definitions are distinct. Dash, Gunluk and Lodi made the same observation independently.
CHARACTERIZATION OF CANDIDA ALBICANS VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL TRANSMISSION IN VERY LOW BIRTH WEIGHT INFANTS USING DNA FINGERPRINTING TECHNIQUES ♦ 815

CHARACTERIZATION OF CANDIDA ALBICANS VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL TRANSMISSION IN VERY LOW BIRTH WEIGHT INFANTS USING DNA FINGERPRINTING TECHNIQUES ♦ 815
Children's Perceptions of Changes in Size of Televised Images

Using a Piagetan perspective, this study investigated the ways in which elementary school children perceive changes in the size of a televised image (in this case, a candy bar). The findings suggest that younger children perceive changes in image size from a medium shot to a close-up as changes in the object itself. Children's responses to changes in the televised image parallel their responses to traditional conservation tasks, but conservation of televised images occurs at a later age. In addition, children appear to use different cognitive skills to interpret how a zoom or a cut transforms the size of a televised image. When a zoom is used, children more readily perceive the object as “growing larger.”
A formal anthropological view of motivation models of problematic MMO play: Achievement, social, and immersion factors in the context of culture

Yee (2006) found three motivational factors—achievement, social, and immersion—underlying play in massively multiplayer online role-playing games (‘‘MMORPGs’’ or ‘‘MMOs’’ for short). Subsequent work has suggested that these factors foster problematic or addictiveforms of play in online worlds. In the current study, we used an online survey of respondents (N ¼252), constructed and also interpreted in reference to ethnography and interviews, to examine problematic play in the World of Warcraft (WoW; Blizzard Entertainment, 2004–2013). We relied on tools from psychological anthropology to reconceptualize each of Yee’s three motivational factors in order to test for the possible role of culture in problematic MMO play: (a) For achievement, we examined how ‘‘cultural consonance’’ with normative understandings of success might structure problematic forms of play; (b) for social, we analyzed the possibility that developing overvalued virtual relationships that are cutoff from offline social interactions might further exacerbate problematic play; and (c) in relation to immersion, we examined how ‘‘dissociative’’ blurring of actual- and virtual-world identities and experiences might contribute to
Effect of earthquake‐induced axial load fluctuations on asymmetric frame–wall–rocking foundation systems

Summary Fluctuations in axial load imposed on a rocking footing will affect its moment capacity, the shape of its moment–rotation hysteresis, and potentially the system's seismic performance. Structural asymmetry increases the likelihood of axial load variation during earthquake excitations. To investigate this issue, a unique centrifuge testing program was carried out on low-rise frame–wall–rocking foundation systems. In this paper, the seismic behaviors of asymmetric and symmetric models from this test program are systematically compared. Experimental results reveal that placing the lateral force resisting shear wall outboard produces significant axial load fluctuation, which in turn greatly deteriorate the lateral load-carrying capacity of a foundation rocking dominated frame–wall system, particularly in its weak direction. However, it strengthens the system when loading is towards the shear wall, leading to a highly asymmetric hysteretic response. During earthquake loading, all asymmetric rocking foundation systems observe smaller peak roof accelerations, but larger peak and permanent roof drifts compared with the symmetric systems. Despite these differences in response, the axial load fluctuation and structural asymmetry do not significantly change the relative energy dissipated by the rocking foundations and inelastic structural components within each frame–wall–rocking foundation model. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and validation of a vitiligo-specific quality-of-life instrument (VitiQoL)

Background Vitiligo significantly affects a person's health-related quality of life (HRQL). Although a small number of generic, and disease-specific, dermatologic HRQL measures exist, currently no vitiligo-specific instrument is available to capture disease-targeted concerns and issues. Objective We sought to develop and validate a vitiligo-specific self-report instrument for HRQL. Methods A pool of vitiligo-specific items was created based on in-depth interviews with patients with vitiligo (n = 16) and their responses to items in several previously validated HRQL measures. These items comprising our new instrument, VitiQoL, along with Skindex-16 and Dermatology Life Quality Index were administered to patients with vitiligo (n = 90) at two academic centers. This new instrument was validated using psychometric analysis. Results The VitiQoL items showed high internal consistency (Cronbach alpha = 0.935). Exploratory factor analysis demonstrated 3 factors: participation limitation, stigma, and behavior. Concurrent validity was evidenced by large correlations between self-reported severity and VitiQoL scores ( r = 0.51). Known groups validity was demonstrated for the VitiQoL behavior subscale between individuals with exposed and unexposed patches ( P = .01). Convergent validity was shown by strong correlations between VitiQoL and outside dermatology scales measuring similar constructs (Skindex-16, r = 0.82; Dermatology Life Quality Index, r = 0.83). Limitations Potential selection bias was a limitation as most patients were recruited from academic centers. Reliability of the instrument was tested only with internal consistency and not reproducibility. Responsiveness of the instrument was not tested because of the prolonged time course necessary to observe clinically significant change in vitiligo. Conclusion VitiQoL is a reliable and valid HRQL instrument.
Left ventricular non-compaction cardiomyopathy.

Summary Left ventricular non-compaction, the most recently classified form of cardiomyopathy, is characterised by abnormal trabeculations in the left ventricle, most frequently at the apex. It can be associated with left ventricular dilation or hypertrophy, systolic or diastolic dysfunction, or both, or various forms of congenital heart disease. Affected individuals are at risk of left or right ventricular failure, or both. Heart failure symptoms can be induced by exercise or be persistent at rest, but many patients are asymptomatic. Patients on chronic treatment for compensated heart failure sometimes present acutely with decompensated heart failure. Other life-threatening risks of left ventricular non-compaction are ventricular arrhythmias or complete atrioventricular block, presenting clinically as syncope, and sudden death. Genetic inheritance arises in at least 30–50% of patients, and several genes that cause left ventricular non-compaction have been identified. These genes seem generally to encode sarcomeric (contractile apparatus) or cytoskeletal proteins, although, in the case of left ventricular non-compaction with congenital heart disease, disturbance of the NOTCH signalling pathway seems part of a final common pathway for this form of the disease. Disrupted mitochondrial function and metabolic abnormalities have a causal role too. Treatments focus on improvement of cardiac efficiency and reduction of mechanical stress in patients with systolic dysfunction. Further, treatment of arrhythmia and implantation of an automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator for prevention of sudden death are mainstays of therapy when deemed necessary and appropriate. Patients with left ventricular non-compaction and congenital heart disease often need surgical or catheter-based interventions. Despite progress in diagnosis and treatment in the past 10 years, understanding of the disorder and outcomes need to be improved.
Dimension reduction by local principal component analysis

Reducing or eliminating statistical redundancy between the components of high-dimensional vector data enables a lower-dimensional representation without significant loss of information. Recognizing the limitations of principal component analysis (PCA), researchers in the statistics and neural network communities have developed nonlinear extensions of PCA. This article develops a local linear approach to dimension reduction that provides accurate representations and is fast to compute. We exercise the algorithms on speech and image data, and compare performance with PCA and with neural network implementations of nonlinear PCA. We find that both nonlinear techniques can provide more accurate representations than PCA and show that the local linear techniques outperform neural network implementations.
Organization of the facial nerve nucleus in the cat.

The location of efferent neurons in the brain stem of newborn kittens supplying the facial muscles was studied by means of horseradish perox-idase (HRP) used as a tracer of retrograde protein transport. Three to 15 microliters containing 0.3 to 1.5 mg of HRP was injected into the orbicu-laris oris and orbicularis oculi muscles of six kittens and in the seventh kitten, the ventral ramus of the facial nerve was transected and HRP was instilled on the cut end of the nerve. After a survival time of 24 hours, the animals were anesthetized, perfused by intracardic perfusion technique, and then they were fixed and the brain stems sectioned. Stains for peroxidase demonstrated the labelled neurons in the lateral division of facial nuclei in the ipsilateral side. The orbicularis oculi muscles were represented in the rostral pole of the lateral division of the facial nucleus dorsally while the orbicularis oris muscles were represented in the caudal pole of the lateral division of the facial nucleus ventrally. No labelled neurons were found in the nuclei of the Vth or any other brain stem nuclei. According to my knowledge, this method of localizing the neurons supplying the facial muscles has not been reported previously
A study of rhodopsin-detergent micelles by transient electric birefringence.

Abstract The hydrodynaimc method of transient electric birefringence has been used to study bovine rhodopsin solubilized in two detergents, 0.02% Ammonyx LO and 0.045% digitonin. All measurements are interpreted as the sum of two exponentials by which the relaxation times yield the rotary diffusion coefficients for ellipsoids of revolution. The semi-major and minor axes for prolate ellipsoid models have been calculated and their axial ratio, 6.8, in both detergents, is in line with recent reports on the structure of rhodopsin. Studies on bleached rhodopsin showed a large increase in axial ratio in 0.02% Ammonyx LO.
Performance of Sheet Pile Wall in Peat

To study the performance of sheet pile wall in peat during roadway construction, a long-term instrumentation program was conducted over a period of two years, measuring total lateral earth pressures, sheet pile deflections, soil movements, and water table level variances during construction. The analysis of field data indicated: 1 The earth pressure distribution in peat matched well with the classic Rankine earth pressure; 2 the expected long-term postconstruction sheet pile movement due to the creep behavior of peat was not observed; 3 fully passive earth pressure in peat was mobilized once the maximum measured sheet pile deflection exceeded 0.8% of sheet pile length; and 4 arching effect due to the protruding cross section of sheet pile caused pressure differences of 3-10 kPa between the inside web and outside web of the sheeting. Then, all the construction stages were continuously modeled by finite-element method and the calculated results were compared with the field measurements. The comparisons showed that the calculated results were consistent with the field data and provided reasonable explanations and helpful insights to understand soil-structure interaction mechanism. Finally, some conclusions and suggestions for sheet pile design and construction in peat were reached.
Phagocytized Intracellular Microsporidian Blocks Phagosome Acidification and Phagosome‐Lysosome Fusion

This study examines the relationship between phagosome acidification and phagosome-lysosome fusion events using phagocytized Glugea hertwigi spores. The incidence of lysosome fusion with Glugea spores in phagosomes of mouse peritoneal macrophages and of Tetrahymena was monitored using colloidal gold and acridine orange as labels for secondary lysosomes. Over 80% of the Glugea phagosomes remained segregated from the labeled compartments in macrophages after 60 min; this inhibition of fusion was still evident after 4 h. In Tetrahymena, Glugea spores also showed a high capacity to block fusion with secondary lysosomes (67%); however, spores coated with cationized ferritin showed an 80% fusion rate with labeled acidic compartments (i.e. lysosomes) after 60 min with both Tetrahymena and macrophages. The pH of phagosome compartments was monitored by measuring the emissions of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled Glugea ingested by Tetrahymena. Tetrahymena phagosomes with FITC-Glugea did not acidify within the first hour after phagocytosis; however, phagosomes with cationized ferritin-labeled Glugea underwent acidification during this time period. This acidification took place although the capability of the host cells' lysosomes to fuse was blocked by pretreatment with poly-D-glutamic acid. The cationized ferritin bound to Glugea spores was uncoupled from the spore wall prior to fusion with colloidal gold-labeled compartments. In vitro testing showed that ferritin dissociation requires an acid pH, indicating that phagosomes acidify prior to lysosome fusion.
A PRELIMINARY TEST OF A FAMILY MANAGEMENT RESEARCH MODEL

The conceptual frameworks of family management attempt to explain family behaviour with respect to management activities. However, rigorous empirical tests concerning the validity of these frameworks have not yet been conducted due to a number of unresolved research issues such as the measurement of concepts, data collection and research modelling specifications. This paper attempts to perform a preliminary empirical test of a research model based on the conceptual frameworks in family management. Satisfactions with eleven types of family outputs were examined in relation to a family's input conditions and throughput activities. Throughput activities as a group were found to contribute significantly to the family's satisfaction with the cleanliness of the house. Planning activities, decisionmaking styles and time spent in household production were important in explaining satisfaction with many of the outputs studied. The results of this preliminary test of the management research model demonstrate the need to collect better and relevant data and to develop improved measures of the management concepts so that a full and rigorous test of the family management frameworks can be properly performed. Other research issues such as simultaneity and functional form could then be addressed.
Improvement in medication education in a pediatric subspecialty practice.

Background: The purpose of this study was to measure the impact of an educational intervention on parents of children taking methotrexate (MTX) for juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Methods: This study was conducted using a pre- and postsurvey design. The parents of 100 children with JIA taking MTX for at least 2 months were surveyed during a routine office visit. The parents completed an initial questionnaire regarding the safe use, adverse effects, and guidelines for monitoring the toxicity of MTX. An educational intervention was then administered, and an identical follow-up questionnaire was given during the next office visit. Statistical analysis using a paired t-test (critical P value < 0.05) was performed on individuals who answered both questionnaires. Results: There were 100 responses to the initial questionnaire and 67 responses to the follow-up questionnaire. The mean length of time between surveys was 2.9 ± 0.9 months. In those who completed both questionnaires, the overall correct score increased significantly from 75.8% to 93.4%, respectively (P < 0.0001). Individuals scored the lowest (49%) on the question that addressed MTX’s impact on pregnancy and fertility. Conclusions: MTX knowledge may be less than expected in the parents of children with JIA. Brief educational interventions in the pediatric subspecialty practice can significantly affect a family’s understanding of their child’s medications.
Aptitude for learning a foreign language

What has happened with the construct of foreign language aptitude since 1990, at which time symposium participants from around the world agreed that the "Time has come to rethink the notion of what constitutes aptitude to learn foreign languages?" To answer this question, we begin with a review of studies on foreign language aptitude and its measurement prior to 1990. We then describe research and thinking in the 1990s in several areas, including affective variables; language learning strategies; learning styles as contributors to aptitude; and aptitude as a cognitive construct affected by language variables. Next, we review research on individual differences in language learners and the importance of phonological/orthographic processing for foreign language learning. Finally, we suggest new directions for research in foreign language aptitude.
Regulation of actin-based cell migration by cAMP/PKA

A wide variety of soluble signaling substances utilize the cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) pathway to regulate cellular behaviors including intermediary metabolism, ion channel conductivity, and transcription. A growing literature suggests that integrin-mediated cell adhesion may also utilize PKA to modulate adhesion-associated events such as actin cytoskeletal dynamics and migration. PKA is dynamically regulated by integrin-mediated cell adhesion to extracellular matrix (ECM). Furthermore, while some hallmarks of cell migration and cytoskeletal organization require PKA activity (e.g. activation of Rac and Cdc42; actin filament assembly), others are inhibited by it (e.g. activation of Rho and PAK; interaction of VASP with the c-Abl tyrosine kinase). Also, cell migration and invasion can be impeded by either inhibition or hyper-activation of PKA. Finally, a number of A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) serve to associate PKA with various components of the actin cytoskeleton, thereby enhancing and/or specifying cAMP/PKA signaling in those regions. This review discusses the growing literature that supports the hypothesis that PKA plays a central role in cytoskeletal regulation and cell migration.
Is there evidence to support a phase II trial of inhaled corticosteroids in the treatment of incipient and persistent ARDS

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is common in intensive care, with high mortality and morbidity. Preclinical studies suggest that corticosteroids reduce lung inflammation in ARDS. Early clinical trials using short courses of high-dose corticosteroids in patients at high risk of ARDS and with early ARDS showed increased mortality despite reduced lung inflammation, although more recent experience with lower doses over more prolonged periods is encouraging. After initial promise, corticosteroids now appear to lack mortality benefit in late ARDS. Systemic deleterious effects may outweigh the local benefit of corticosteroids on lung inflammation. Extensive experience has accumulated in the use of inhaled corticosteroids to treat asthma. Inhalation maximises lung effects while minimising systemic absorption. Inhaled corticosteroids have been used successfully in a variety of animal models of lung injury. There is currently sufficient evidence to support a preliminary clinical trial of inhaled corticosteroids in patients at high risk of ARDS as well as with early and/or late ARDS, using markers of inflammation as a surrogate end-point.
Rethinking the SN2 reaction

The SN2 nucleophilic substitution reaction, X− + RY → XR + Y−, is a paradigm reaction in organic chemistry ( 1 ). The modern understanding of the SN2 reaction mechanism is based on work of Hughes and Ingold ( 2 ), who proposed that the nucleophile (X−) approaches the carbon atom that bears the leaving group (Y−). As a result, the bond between the carbon atom and the leaving group becomes weakened. As this bond breaks and a new bond forms between the nucleophile and the carbon atom, the configuration of the carbon atom is inverted. Analyses of gas-phase reaction rates led to the suggestion of a potential energy surface (PES) with two wells connected by a central barrier transition state ( 3 ). Electronic structure calculations have confirmed this picture for some SN2 reactions ( 4 ), but recent studies have shown that the actual reaction dynamics may be considerably more complex (see the figure) ( 5 – 8 ).
Abstract 3578: The use of preventive services among prostate cancer survivors

Introduction and Objectives: It is well established that most men diagnosed with prostate cancer die from other causes. However, concerns have been expressed that the diagnosis often focuses subsequent care on prostate-related issues rather than overall health. We sought to determine if the use of general preventive services were diminished in a cohort of men following their diagnosis of prostate cancer. Methods: Using the California Men9s Health Study, a prospective cohort study of over 40,000 men ages 45-69 years at baseline in 2002 who were recruited through the Kaiser Permanente Southern California Health Plan, we identified 1636 men who were newly diagnosed with prostate cancer from 2002 through 2008. Preventive services evaluated included screening for colorectal cancer (colonoscopy and/or fecal occult blood tests (FOBT)), tests for diabetes (glucose and hemoglobin A1c) and heart disease (serum cholesterol, high density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglycerides) and vaccinations (influenza and pneumococcal). The use of preventive services was compared in the two years prior to and following prostate cancer diagnosis using matched odds ratios (MOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) adjusted for baseline age, Charlson comorbidity index, education, smoking and income. Results: Of the 1636 men diagnosed with prostate cancer, men were equally as likely to receive a pneumococcal vaccination, a hemoglobin A1c or glucose test for diabetes and screening for colorectal cancer before and after prostate cancer diagnosis (Pneumococcal MOR: 1.00, 95% CI: 0.72-1.37; Hemoglobin A1c MOR: 1.01, 95% CI: 0.51-2.01; Glucose MOR: 1.07, 95% CI: 0.71-1.60; Colorectal cancer screening MOR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.56-1.47). The adjusted odds of receiving an influenza vaccine were 2.6 times greater after prostate cancer diagnosis when compared to before diagnosis (MOR: 2.62, 95% CI: 1.53-4.49). However, men were approximately 70% less likely to receive a cholesterol test (MOR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.15-0.59) and HDL test (MOR 0.32, 95% CI: 0.16-0.62) following prostate cancer diagnosis. Also, men were approximately 50% less likely to receive a triglyceride test after diagnosis when compared to before prostate cancer diagnosis (MOR 0.51, 95% CI: 0.29-0.89). Conclusions: Results from this study suggest that once diagnosed with prostate cancer, less attention is paid to preventive care for heart disease. As more men with prostate cancer die from causes other than their cancer, screening for and maintenance of preventable diseases of aging is critical and warrants improvement. This analysis also highlights the importance of transitioning care back to primary care physicians after men have undergone treatment for prostate cancer. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3578. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-3578
Tolerance of the profoundly hypothermic dog to complete circulatory standstill.

SummaryPeriods of 60 minutes of complete circulatory standstill were tolerated in 10 dogs at temperatures of 10°C or lower.
Component integrated importance: Modeling complex aging systems

One objective of studying complex system reliabilities using block diagrams is to determine which individual components contribute most significantly to the reliability of the assembled system. A well-known method is to compute the Birnbaum component importance (BCI) of every component, then prioritize reliability improvement efforts on the components that have larger importance values. In the literature and in practice, there are two versions of BCI, one is static and the other is dynamic. The static version computes BCI of individual components at a given time t, while the dynamic version computes BCI of individual components at many time points and forms curves for individual components. Both BCI versions (static and dynamic) assume the system is new. However, component importance can change dramatically as systems age. We will present the details of our study. We will discuss two alternatives that consider component importance measures that involve system aging. One published alternative is known as the Component Integrated Importance [2]. The other is conditional BCI.
MiGs and Monks in Crimea: Russia Flexes Cultural and Military Muscles, Revealing Dire Need for Balance of Uti Possidetis and Internationally Recognized Self-Determination

Uti possidetis has been applied world-wide and can only be ignored with consequences. Comparing the merits of one country’s claim over a strip of land confronts powerful walls of emotion. As an example, Russia’s strong connections to Crimea pale in comparison to those of Jewish and Palestinian peoples to ancient Palestine. The Kosovo secession ignored the Badinter Commission’s plan for the division of Yugoslavia in accordance with principles of uti possidetis. The Kosovo solution avoided further near-term bloodshed in Kosovo but spawned Russia’s seizures of Georgian and Ukrainian territory. Within months of Kosovo’s independence declaration and subsequent diplomatic recognition by much of Europe and the United States, Russia and Georgia fought a brief but costly war over the separatist province of South Ossetia. Those arguing Kosovo’s claim to secession was sui generis fail to realize that each case is compelling in its own, unique, historical way, and each group agitating for self-determination can cite historical wrongs in need of resolution. To claim one group has a greater need, a unique need, or right to self-determination without regard for uti possidetis displays a dangerous shortsightedness and lack of historical awareness.
Headache in the Athlete and Radiographic Evaluation

A deliberate attempt is made to stress the nonspecificity of headache and the complexity of its work-up. The choice of radiographic studies for its evaluation should be governed by the strongly considered etiology. This article deals with the most likely causes of headaches in an athlete. The merits and limitations of currently available radiographic modalities to detect headache-producing diseases are broadly discussed.
An Unwelcomed Digital Visitor in the Classroom: The Longitudinal Impact of Online Racial Discrimination on Academic Motivation

Abstract. Online racial discrimination experiences often reflect attacks on the humanity and intelligence of members of specific racial groups (e.g., African Americans and Latinos). Such experiences may have detrimental effects on academic outcomes over time. Changes in reports of online racial discrimination and academic motivation were examined among a sample of 418 African American (n = 257) and Latino (n = 161) youth in Grades 6–12. Latent growth models with parallel processes revealed that adolescents reported increases in online racial discrimination over time yet relative stability in academic motivation. Elevated rates of online racial discrimination were related to decreases in adolescents' academic motivation. This was the case even after adjusting for teacher discrimination and baseline grade point average. In addition, high initial levels of academic motivation were related to increases in adolescents' reports of online racial discrimination. Findings highlight the importance of understanding ...
Pharmacologic Preservation of Renal Mass and Function in Obstructive Uropathy

AbstractUnilateral ureteral obstruction for 1, 2 and 3 week intervals in rats resulted in a significant loss of renal mass and function as measured 3 months following relief of the obstruction. Inhibition of angiotensin II production by the administration of captopril during the period of obstruction resulted in significant preservation of both renal mass and function. Inhibition of the prostaglandin-thromboxane system with the cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin, resulted in a lesser degree of preservation of renal function, but had no beneficial effect on renal mass. These experiments suggest that the renin-angiotensin and prostaglandin-thromboxane systems play a significant role in the loss of renal function from obstructive uropathy. Moreover, they demonstrate that renal function is better maintained if these hormonal systems are pharmacologically inhibited during obstruction.
VHDL implementations of fast IC testing tools

Switch-level faults, as opposed to traditional gate-level faults, can more accurately model physical failures found in an integrated circuit. However, one problem with switch-level fault simulation is that of long simulation times. This paper addresses this problem by performing fast approximate switch-level fault simulation. Results show one order of magnitude of complexity speed-up as compared to traditional fault simulation techniques, while maintaining good accuracy.
Effect of Hydrofluoroether Cosolvent Addition on Li Solvation in Acetonitrile-Based Solvate Electrolytes and Its Influence on S Reduction in a Li-S Battery.

Li–S batteries are a promising next-generation battery technology. Due to the formation of soluble polysulfides during cell operation, the electrolyte composition of the cell plays an active role in directing the formation and speciation of the soluble lithium polysulfides. Recently, new classes of electrolytes termed “solvates” that contain stoichiometric quantities of salt and solvent and form a liquid at room temperature have been explored due to their sparingly solvating properties with respect to polysulfides. The viscosity of the solvate electrolytes is understandably high limiting their viability; however, hydrofluoroether cosolvents, thought to be inert to the solvate structure itself, can be introduced to reduce viscosity and enhance diffusion. Nazar and co-workers previously reported that addition of 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethyl 2,2,3,3-tetrafluoropropyl ether (TTE) to the LiTFSI in acetonitrile solvate, (MeCN)2–LiTFSI, results in enhanced capacity retention compared to the neat solvate. Here, we ev...
Porosity-permeability relationship in dual-porosity carbonate analogs

ABSTRACTWe have investigated the effect of micrite content and macroporosity on the porosity-permeability relationship of dual-porosity carbonates using analog samples created in the laboratory. Specifically, we control the micrite-to-coarse-grains ratio to produce samples in which the micrite content is the only parameter changing. We also introduce into the microstructures controlled volumes of an acetone-soluble solid material (camphor) at the expense of the micrite aggregates, which functions as macropores after being dissolved. With regard to the effect of micrite on the porosity-permeability relationship, our results indicated that adding micrite to samples exhibiting a grain-supported microstructure reduces porosity and permeability drastically. By increasing the micrite content up to approximately 30%, the sample becomes micrite supported, at which point adding more micrite increases the porosity but no longer affects the permeability significantly. Samples characterized by a high micrite content ...
The Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System in Obesity and Hypertension: Roles in the Cardiorenal Metabolic Syndrome.

Over the past 5 years our understanding of the seminal role of hypertension (HTN) in the pathogenesis of the cardiorenal metabolic syndrome (CRS) has evolved significantly (1). In the United States, more than 50 million people have blood pressure (BP) at or above 120/80mmHg (2). All components of the CRS, including the cardiovascular disease (CVD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) components are inexorably linked to metabolic abnormalities and obesity (1–4). Recent statistics show that the prevalence of CKD in US adults ≥30 years is estimated to rise from the current 13.2% to 14.4% in 2020 and 16.7% in 2030 (3). One of the major drivers for all components of the CRS, including CKD, is obesity (body mass index ≥30 kg/m2) which now exceeds 30% in adults in the United States (4). Current estimates also show that many of those with HTN and CRS show some degree of systemic and cardiovascular (CV) insulin resistance, which supports a critical role in the pathogenesis of HTN and other components of the CRS (5,6). Several pathophysiologic factors, in addition to insulin resistance, participate in the link between HTN and CRS. These include inappropriate activation of the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS), oxidative stress, enhanced sympathetic nervous system activation and systemic and CV tissue inflammation. The goal of this review is to update recent literature with a focus more on the function of insulin resistance, obesity and RAAS-mediated oxidative stress on endothelial dysfunction and the pathogenesis of HTN.
Behavioral ecology of American Pikas ( Ochotona princeps ) at Mono Craters, California: living on the edge

The behavioral ecology of the American pika (Ochotona princeps) was investigated at a relatively hot south-facing, low-elevation site in the Mono Craters, California, a habitat quite different from the upper montane regions more typically inhabited by this species and where most prior investigations have been conducted. Mono Craters pikas exhibited a behavioral profile that contrasted significantly with that of pikas found in upper montane regions. Mono Craters pikas were less surface active than pikas in studies at high-elevation sites, although their rate of short-call vocalizations was similar. Mono Craters pikas did not exhibit typical foraging behavior: they fed and collected hay at significantly reduced rates, and did not construct large central-place hay piles. Social behaviors (conspecific aggression, social tolerance, avoidance) were infrequent compared with data from prior studies in upper montane environments. The Mono Craters site appears to be one of the warmest localities in which pikas have been observed. Recorded talus surface temperatures consistently exceeded 30 °C, and temperatures >40 °C were commonly recorded. In contrast, temperatures measured in the matrix of the talus were consistently cooler, and the apparent insulating effect of talus, as measured by the difference between surface and matrix temperatures, was typically most pronounced on the hottest days. Although pika activity was most frequent in early morning, late afternoon, and at night, pikas were also active during the hottest part of the day, presumably because of their ability to behaviorally thermoregulate by retreating into the cooler talus matrix. Data on populations of pikas which inhabit marginal sites can help us understand how pikas and other montane animals might respond in a world of climate change so that we may more effectively plan for their conservation.
A Paradigm-Shifting Methodology for Sensitivity Analysis of Critical Multiplying Nuclear Systems

AbstractDispensing with the traditional approach to solving the equations modeling multiplying critical nuclear systems as an eigenvalue system, this work proposes a new and comprehensive mathematical framework (C-Framework) that eliminates the need for solving eigenvalue problems when computing the forward and adjoint neutron flux distributions in critical reactors. Consequently, the C-Framework enables the mathematical and computational analysis of critical and noncritical multiplying systems, with or without external sources, in a unified manner. By eliminating the need for solving eigenvalue problems, the C-Framework also enables the use of more efficient numerical methods (than currently used) for computing the forward and adjoint neutron flux distributions in critical reactors. Furthermore, the C-Framework also enables the application of the Comprehensive Adjoint Sensitivity Analysis Methodology (C-ASAM) as a replacement for the so-called generalized perturbation theory (GPT). The C-ASAM is much sim...
Value in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: A Systematic Review of Economic Analyses.

Purpose The purpose of this study is to describe the state of economic analyses in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS). Materials and Methods A systematic search of published literature up to 2016 was performed. The inclusion criteria were as follows: English-language articles on economic analyses pertaining to OMS including anesthesia and pain management; dentoalveolar surgery; orthognathic, cleft, and/or obstructive sleep apnea treatment; pathology; reconstruction; temporomandibular disorders; trauma; and other. The exclusion criteria were as follows: opinion or perspective articles, studies unrelated to OMS, nonhuman research, and implant-related studies. Cost-effectiveness analyses (CEAs), cost-utility analyses, and cost-minimization analyses (CMAs) were evaluated with the original Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS) checklist or a modified CHEERS checklist. Results The search yielded 798 articles, 77 of which met the inclusion criteria (published from 1980 to 2016, 48 from the United States). There were an increasing number of studies over time ( P for trend Conclusions There is an increasing trend in the number of economic studies in the field of OMS. More high-quality economic evaluations are needed to demonstrate the value of OMS procedures. To determine value, future studies should compare both costs and health-related outcomes.
Abstract TP403: Kansas Initiative for Stroke Survival: a Statewide Program to Improve Stroke Outcomes

Comprehensive Stroke Centers (CSCs) provide leadership to the surrounding communities they serve. Until state certification is mandated through legislative action, CSCs may be the best actors to create and improve stroke systems of care. Our CSC is in a state with 83 out of 126 Critical Access Hospitals. We launched the Kansas Initiative for Stroke Survival (KISS) in 2012, offering training and resources on quality measures and protocols necessary to recognize and treat stroke. Hospitals were invited to do an assessment of what they needed to do to become “stroke ready” and sign an attestation that acute therapy could be administered with telephonic assistance from a tertiary center and a transfer plan in place. In the first two years, over sixty hospitals participated, but those enrolled in KISS as emergent stroke ready did not show sustained improvement in stroke care. Door to needle time increased 25% in the last year. In response, our CSC created an independent executive board, representing professionals from nursing, emergency medical services, management, and medicine, to lead a broader statewide approach to education and accountability. Our new goals are to develop a statewide capability map, distribute a quarterly newsletter highlighting efforts across the state, and develop a website with links to presentations, protocols, and statewide data. We have already redesigned the data survey to enhance reporting and analysis, community-level boot camps have been implemented, and a statewide peer review has begun. Our CSC leads the quarterly peer review along with education that covers topics impacting outcomes, such as time from door to thrombolytic therapy and endovascular case selection; the first conference had 27 participants across the state. Our experience demonstrates that CSCs can lead statewide improvements in stroke care and that hospitals around the state are receptive to that leadership. Collaboration between hospitals can improve stroke outcomes.
Measuring Border Security for Resource Allocation

Effective management of border security requires effective measurement of the impact of alternative policies on unwanted cross-border flows. There are no agreed-upon ways to measure the amount of any particular inflow; some indicators are believed to rise and fall with each in-flow, but they do not measure the total flow. To combine multiple measures proportional to an unmeasurable flow, we introduce Principal Ray Analysis. The resulting estimates of fractional change in unseen flows, combined with cost information, support optimal incremental resource allocation, for any single type of flow. Extension to multiple flows requires agreement on the relative importance of reducing each of the flows. A common data store is recommended to support rational debate on cross-flow allocations and overall “security.”
Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD) for hemorrhoidal disease: a single-center study on 1000 consecutive cases and a review of the literature

The article "Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD) for hemorrhoidal disease: a single-center study on 1000 consecutive cases and a review of the literature" written by C. Ratto et al. was originally published Online First without open access.