cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The cost-effectiveness of oral direct factor Xa inhibitors compared with low-molecular-weight heparin for the prevention of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in total hip or knee replacement surgery.

Introduction Major orthopedic surgery is associated with a high risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Anticoagulants are recommended to prevent VTE, and recently an oral direct factor Xa inhibitor (FXaI) was approved for this indication. We compared the cost-effectiveness of FXaIs with low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in patients undergoing total hip replacement (THR) or total knee replacement (TKR) surgery. Design A decision-tree model was developed to compare the cost-effectiveness of oral direct FXaIs (rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban) to subcutaneous LMWHs (enoxaparin and dalteparin), with separate models for THR and TKR. The analysis was conducted over a 180-day postoperative time horizon from the U.S. Medicare perspective. The model was developed using TreeAge Pro 2011 (TreeAge Software Inc., Williamstown, MA, USA). Methods Efficacy and safety data (probabilities of distal and proximal deep vein thrombosis, symptomatic pulmonary embolism, and major bleeding) were derived from a systematic review and meta-analysis of phase II and III clinical trials. Costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) are reported. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate parameter uncertainty. Results In the THR model, the average costs per patient for FXaIs and LMWHs were $18,762 and $18,897, respectively, and the QALYs were 0.938 and 0.932. In the TKR model, the average cost per patient for FXaIs and LMWHs were $18,804 and $18,991, respectively, and the QALYs were 0.935 and 0.931. In both models, FXaIs dominated LMWH (less costly and more efficacious). Neither model was sensitive to changes in any of the variables in the one-way sensitivity analyses. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis indicated that FXaIs were cost-effective in more than 99% of iterations in the THR population and in 98% of iterations in the TKR population assuming a willingness-to-pay threshold of $50,000/QALY. Conclusion Oral direct FXaIs may be an economically dominant strategy compared with LMWHs for VTE prophylaxis in patients undergoing either THR or TKR surgery.
Fluid flow in the Keathley Canyon 151 Mini-Basin, northern Gulf of Mexico

Abstract Laboratory experiments and drilling observations are used to estimate vertically upward fluid flow rates of approximately 4 mm/yr in Keathley Canyon, northern Gulf of Mexico. Based on uncertainty in pressure and permeability models, flow rates exceed 1.3 mm/yr but are less than 28 mm/yr. Consolidation experiments document that permeability decreases from 10 −15 m 2 at the seafloor to 10 −18 m 2 at 300 m below seafloor. I use these experimental data with logging-while-drilling data to constrain a permeability function for the basin. Sediment discharge from an open borehole filled with weighted mud is used to estimate a minimum overpressure gradient of 4.3 kPa m −1 in the Keathley Canyon mini-basin. The overpressure gradient and permeability model are input into Darcy's law to estimate an average flow rate for the basin. These flow rates are consistent with estimates of compaction-driven flow from existing regional-scale models of flow in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Hydrate stability calculations for the basin predict a 25 m deepening of the base of hydrate stability due to overpressure.
Differential and epigenetic gene expression profiling identifies frequent disruption of the RELN pathway in pancreatic cancers

Background & Aims: Recently described genome-wide approaches robustly detect many candidate genes that are regulated by DNA methylation, but many of these genes do not represent important targets for functional inactivation. Here we used a microarray-based strategy to identify biologically relevant genes associated with epigenetic silencing in pancreatic cancer. Methods: We compared information from differential gene expression analysis with the transcriptional responses to epigenetic modifiers. Results: Using this approach, we identified 7 novel targets for aberrant methylation in pancreatic cancer. One of the genes identified, RELN (Reelin), a key regulator of neuronal migration, is frequently silenced in pancreatic cancers, as are several of its downstream mediators. Importantly, small interfering RNA–mediated knockdown of RELN in pancreatic cancer cells that retain RELN expression resulted in greatly enhanced cell motility, invasiveness, and colony-forming ability. Increased cell motility was also induced by knockdown of downstream components of the RELN pathway, including ApoER2, VLDLR, and DAB1. Treatment of pancreatic cancer cells with histone deacetylase inhibitors, valproic acid and suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid, restored the expression of RELN and DAB1 and markedly inhibited their migration. Conclusions: The high prevalence of the silencing of RELN pathway components and its reversal by histone deacetylase inhibitors suggest the importance of this pathway as a diagnostic and therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer.
American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) survey of radiation biology educators in U.S. and Canadian radiation oncology residency programs.

Purpose: To obtain, in a survey-based study, detailed information on the faculty currently responsible for teaching radiation biology courses to radiation oncology residents in the United States and Canada. Methods and Materials: In March-December 2007 a survey questionnaire was sent to faculty having primary responsibility for teaching radiation biology to residents in 93 radiation oncology residency programs in the United States and Canada. Results: The responses to this survey document the aging of the faculty who have primary responsibility for teaching radiation biology to radiation oncology residents. The survey found a dramatic decline with time in the percentage of educators whose graduate training was in radiation biology. A significant number of the educators responsible for teaching radiation biology were not fully acquainted with the radiation sciences, either through training or practical application. In addition, many were unfamiliar with some of the organizations setting policies and requirements for resident education. Freely available tools, such as the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) Radiation and Cancer Biology Practice Examination and Study Guides, were widely used by residents and educators. Consolidation of resident courses or use of a national radiation biology review course was viewed as unlikely by most programs. Conclusions: A highmore » priority should be given to the development of comprehensive teaching tools to assist those individuals who have responsibility for teaching radiation biology courses but who do not have an extensive background in critical areas of radiobiology related to radiation oncology. These findings also suggest a need for new graduate programs in radiobiology.« less
Elastic Inversion of Gulf of Mexico Data

An elastic inversion method baaed upon a wave equation for layered media haa been tested on seismic data from the Gulf of Mexico. Computed P-wave velocity and demity compare favorably with well log measurements at two locations, and show extremely small m&ties in depth. Inverted S-wave velocity was also computed, but no nearby shear velocity logs were available for comparison. traveltime for P-wave reflection at depth z starting from depth zo is
Quinacridone-based molecular donors for solution processed bulk-heterojunction organic solar cells.

New soluble quinacridone-based molecules have been developed as electron donor materials for solution-processed organic solar cells. By functionalizing the pristine pigment core of quinacridone with solubilizing alkyl chains and light absorbing/charge transporting thiophene units, i.e., bithiophene (BT) and thienylbenzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazolethienyl (BTD), we prepared a series of multifunctional quinacridone-based molecules. These molecular donors show intense absorption in the visible spectral region, and the absorption range and intensity are well-tuned by the interaction between the quinacridone core and the incorporated thiophene units. The thin film absorption edge extends with the expansion of molecular conjugation, i.e., 552 nm for N,N′-di(2-ethylhexyl)quinacridone (QA), 592 nm for 2,9-Bis(5′-hexyl-2,2′-bithiophene)-N,N′-di(2-ethylhexyl)quinacridone (QA-BT), and 637 nm for 4-(5-hexylthiophen-2-yl)-7-(thiophen-2-yl)benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole (QA-BTD). The change of molecular structure also influences ...
Effect of fabrication and processing technology on the biodegradability of magnesium nanocomposites.

Magnesium and its alloys have gained significant attention recently as potential alternatives for biodegradable materials due to their unique biodegradability, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties. However, magnesium alloys tend to have high corrosion rates in biological liquids, thus presenting a potential problem if a magnesium implant/device needs to maintain mechanical integrity for a sufficient period under practical physiological conditions. In this study, hydroxyapatite nanoparticles were used to form magnesium based metal matrix nanocomposites (MMNC) through two processes: friction stir processing (FSP) and a two-state nanoprocessing (TSnP) combining liquid state ultrasonic processing and solid state FSP. In addition, laser surface melting (LSM) was carried out for further surface treatment. In vitro immersion tests indicated that the corrosion rate of MMNC decreased by 52% compared with pure Mg through FSP. Potentiodynamic polarization tests showed that the corrosion current of MMNC decreased by 71% and 30%, respectively, by TSnP and LSM when compared with pure Mg or untreated counterparts. This study suggests that fabrication of MMNC and further processing through FSP and LSM can robustly enhance the corrosion resistance of magnesium, which will boost its potential for biological applications. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2013.
Massive higher spin from dimensional reduction of gauge fields

A unified treatment of symmetric and “D-bein” higher integer spin massive fields in arbitrary dimension is presented and illustrated with the generic cases of spins 3 and 4. The theories are uniformly generated from massless gauge systems in one higher dimension by Kaluza-Klein reduction. The origin and role of various auxiliary field formulations are thereby clarified in terms of the underlying gauge freedom. This treatment is compared with the construction of massive theories from gauge field actions in the same dimension. The general canonical formulation is also exhibited.
Ethanol modulates AMPA-induced current responses of primary somatosensory cortical neurons

This study examined the effect of ethanol on responses of primary somatosensory cortical neurons to AMPA. Thin (200-250 microns) brain slices were sectioned to include the primary somatosensory cortex of rats 6-15 days after birth. Visually-identified neurons were selected for whole-cell patch clamp recording and an eight-barrel drug pipet assembly was used to deliver test agents. Ethanol (5-100 mM) either positively or negatively modulated AMPA (100 microM)-induced current to varying degrees in approximately 70% of primary somatosensory cortical neurons. As revealed in layer V large pyramidal neurons, the outcome of an ethanol-induced modulation appeared to be age-dependent, the trend being one of potentiation in slices derived from younger rats (postnatal days 6-9) but one of attenuation in those derived from older animals (postnatal days 13-15). These findings indicate that ethanol at physiologically relevant concentrations modulates non-NMDA receptor-mediated responses of neurons in the rat primary somatosensory cortex.
Effects of Nitric Oxide Synthase Inhibitors on Bone Formation in Rats

Abstract NO is synthesized from l -arginine by at least three isoforms of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and is known to function as a vasodilator and neurotransmitter. NO is produced by bone cells but its function in bone biology is, as yet, unclear. We hypothesized that NOS mediates bone formation in remodeling regions of the skeleton. We studied the effects of two NOS inhibitors: N G -nitro- l -arginine methyl ester ( l -NAME), which is a general inhibitor of NOS activity and is known to inhibit the vasodilatory effects of the endothelial NOS (eNOS) isoform; and aminoguanidine, which is a selective inhibitor of the inducible NOS (iNOS) isoform. Our hypothesis was tested by treating rats with NOS inhibitors and measuring bone formation rates in the tibial epiphysis and diaphysis. Bone formation indices were measured using standard bone histomorphometry. l -NAME treatment significantly raised mean arterial blood pressure (MAP). This effect was partially reversed by addition of l -arginine. Aminoguanidine had no significant effect on MAP, indicating that it did not block eNOS. The treatments also had substantial effects on bone formation in remodeling trabecular bone. l -NAME did not significantly change trabecular bone formation rate, whereas aminoguanidine reduced bone formation rate in the tibial epiphysis by 79% compared with control. This reduction was completely reversed by l -arginine, suggesting that bone formation during remodeling is, in part, mediated through l -arginine metabolism. No effect of aminoguanidine on bone formation was seen in the tibial diaphysis, a site that undergoes minimal bone remodeling. This finding suggests that the l -arginine-NO pathway is important in bone remodeling.
Hybrid Dendritic−Linear Polyester−Ethers for in Situ Photopolymerization

Novel first through fourth generation hybrid dendritic−linear copolymers, composed entirely of building blocks known to be biocompatible or degradable to natural metabolites in vivo, are described. Specifically, these copolymers are composed of poly(ethylene glycol), glycerol, and succinic acid and are synthesized using a divergent approach in high yield. A photo-cross-linkable derivative of this copolymer successfully seals 4.1 mm corneal lacerations. The mechanism of tissue repair is likely one of physical entrapment where an interpenetrating network (IPN) is formed between the cross-linked copolymer and the tissue.
A novel K-mer mixture logistic regression for methylation susceptibility modeling of CpG dinucleotides in human gene promoters

DNA methylation is essential for normal cell development and differentiation and plays a crucial role in the development of nearly all types of cancer. Although it is now possible, using next generation sequencing technologies, to assess human methylomes at base resolution, no reports currently exist on modeling cell type-specific DNA methylation susceptibility. Thus, we conducted a comprehensive modeling study of cell type-specific DNA methylation susceptibility at three different resolutions: CpG dinucleotides, CpG segments, and individual gene promoter regions.Using a k-mer mixture logistic regression model, we effectively modeled DNA methylation susceptibility across five different cell types. The significance of these results is three fold: 1) this is the first report to indicate that CpG methylation susceptible "segments" exist; 2) our model demonstrates the significance of certain k-mers for the mixture model, potentially highlighting DNA sequence features (k-mers) of differentially methylated, promoter CpG island sequences across different tissue types; 3) as only 3 or 4 bp patterns had previously been used for modeling DNA methylation susceptibility, ours is the first demonstration that 6-mer modeling can be performed without loss of accuracy.
Regulatory Focus and Daily-Deal Message Framing: Are We Saving or Gaining With Groupon?

Daily-deal sites such as Groupon and Living Social have seen explosive growth over the past few years, but many firms are struggling to craft effective messages that will appeal to consumers’ deal-seeking motivations. This study examines the cognitive process by which consumers interpret offers, specifically the interaction between regulatory focus and message framing. Two experiments suggest that matching regulatory focus (emphasizing nonloss for prevention-oriented individuals and gain for promotion-oriented customers) strengthens persuasion. Furthermore, the results indicate that different mechanisms operate for individuals with different chronic regulatory foci: prevention-oriented consumers tend to centrally process daily-deal offers with both compatible (prevention) and incompatible (promotion) message frames. The findings contribute to the theoretical understanding of regulatory compatibility by applying it to the online daily-deal context. In addition, it provides compelling evidence for marketers...
Confinement of Symmetric Diblock Copolymer Thin Films

We study symmetric and nearly symmetric diblock copolymers confined to thin films of thickness L, where L is the equilibrium bulk lamellar period. The film surfaces have opposite preferences for the polymer species; this results in frustration. We use the Scheutjens-Fleer method to calculate the free energies of several parallel (with respect to the film surfaces), perpendicular, and mixed perpendicular morphologies as a function of the preferential wetting strengths of the polymer species at the film surfaces. When the film surface is highly preferential, the perpendicular morphology adopts a novel structure not seen in bulk diblock copolymer melts. In addition, when the diblock copolymers are slightly asymmetric, a mixed perpendicular morphology, in which half of the film resembles the perpendicular morphology and half of the film resembles a parallel morphology, can be stable. We calculate a phase diagram in the plane of the preferential wetting strengths at the two surfaces and find that the perpendicular morphology or the mixed perpendicular morphology is the equilibrium morphology in a significant portion of the plane. This is in contrast to the simple, strong segregation limit, flat interface theory, which essentially predicts that only parallel morphologies should be observed in (equilibrium) L-thick films.
The SLAC Long Ion Chamber System for Machine Protection

To protect the Stanford 3 km accelerator from damage caused by its own electron beam, a single ion chamber has been installed, which runs the whole length of the accelerator. The pulse train from the ion chamber is displayed on an oscilloscope, giving a representation of beam power loss along the machine as a function of distance from the injector. It also operates a system that shuts off the electron beam within 1 ms whenever the signal level exceeds a preset value.
Developmental aspects of renal beta-amino acid transport. IV. Brush border membrane response to altered intake of sulfur amino acids.

Summary: Taurinuria is characteristic of the immature rat. The capacity of the kidney to accumulate the β-amino acid taurine and D-glucose was examined using isolated brush border membrane vesicles (BBMV) prepared from 28-day-old rats. Taurine accumulation was inversely proportional to osmolarity, indicating uptake rather than binding, and taurine accumulation was Na+-dependent. BBMV from 28-day rats did not accumulate D-glucose to the same degree as in adult BBMV, and the initial rate of uptake was slower. Taurine uptake had a similar Km and Vmax in BBMV from immature rats. Despite similarities in the kinetics taurine uptake, higher urinary taurine concentrations are found in younger rats, suggesting that other factors, such as an efflux block, account for the taurinuria of young animals. A diet low in methionine and taurine (LTD) given for 7 days resulted in a lower excretion and fractional excretion of taurine than in animals fed a normal sulfur amino acid diet (NTD). A high taurine diet (HTD) causes excessive taurinuria. These patterns of excretion are reflected at the brush border membrane surface with greater uptake after the LTD and reduced uptake after the HTD. A kinetic analysis of adult and 28-day-old animal BBMV reveals that the Vmax of accumulation is altered by diet, whereas the Km remains unchanged. The Vmax is higher in BBMV from LTD animals and lower in BBMV from HTD animals. The kinetics of uptake are similar in adult and 28-day-old rat vesicles on a given diet. Thus, in addition to ontogenic changes in taurine excretion, there is an adaptive response to dietary alteration present at the brush border surface.
Genetic analysis of cyanobacterial development

Filamentous cyanobacteria, the only prokaryotes that form linear patterns of differentiated cells, can be genetically manipulated by the conjugative transfer of plasmids from Escherichia coli. It has become possible to determine the cellular localization of genetic transcription, including transcription of developmentally critical genes before morphological differentiation takes place, by using luciferase as a reporter. These techniques are facilitating developmental analysis.
A thermodynamic study of ketoreductase-catalyzed reactions 5. Reduction of substituted ketones in n-hexane

Abstract The equilibrium constants K for the ketoreductase-catalyzed reduction reactions of 1-benzyl-3-pyrrolidinone, ethyl 2-oxo-4-phenylbutyrate, ethyl 4-chloroacetoacetate, 1-benzyl-4-piperidone, and 1-benzyl-3-piperidone were measured in n-hexane at T = 298.15 K by using gas chromatography. The equilibrium constants for the reaction involving 1-benzyl-4-piperidone were also measured as a function of temperature (288.15 to 308.05) K. The calculated thermodynamic quantities for the reaction (1-benzyl-4-piperidone + 2-propanol = 1-benzyl-4-hydroxypiperidine + acetone) reaction carried out in n-hexane at T = 298.15 K are: K = (26.2 ± 1.7); Δ r G m ∘ = - ( 8.10 ± 0.16 ) kJ · mol - 1 ; Δ r H m ∘ = - ( 3.44 ± 0.42 ) kJ · mol - 1 ; and Δ r S m ∘ = ( 15.6 ± 1.4 ) J · K - 1 · mol - 1 . The chirality of the hydroxyl products of the reactions (1) , (2) , (3) , (5) has also been investigated. The results showed that the stereoselectivity of the hydroxyl products formed can be controlled by the selection of the solvent and enzyme used in these reactions. The thermochemical results for these reactions are compared with the results for reactions that have analogous structural features as well as with the results of quantum chemical calculations.
Life-time characteristics of EPR cable insulation under electrical and thermal stresses

Ethylene Propylene Rubber (EPR) has been used as the insulation for polymeric power cables for its good dielectric properties. For the typical medium voltage EPR cables, the designing electrical stress should not exceed 5 kV/mm under normal operational conditions. The majority of the EPR cables have a maximum working temperature of 105 °C with the capability of working at 140 °C for short-time period. Since the occasional over-voltage and over-current will accelerate the aging, it will be necessary to determine the life-time characteristics under the combined high electrical and thermal stress. In the study, EPR cable insulation samples of 90 μm thick were sliced from the commercial-available 15 kV EPR cable. Constant ac voltage was applied to the cable samples while the test temperature was kept at 105 °C, 140 °C, 165 °C, and 190 °C accordingly. The time-to-breakdown data were collected to extrapolate the lifetime characteristics of the tested EPR insulation samples.
Characterization of the crust of the Coast Mountains Batholith, British Columbia, from P to S converted seismic waves and petrologic modeling

Abstract The late Triassic to early Tertiary Coast Mountains Batholith (CMB) of British Columbia provides an ideal locale to study the processes whereby accreted terranes and subduction-related melts interact to form stable continental crust of intermediate to felsic composition and complementary ultramafic residuals. Seismic measurements, combined with calculated elastic properties of various CMB rock compositions, provide a window into the deep-crustal lithologies that are key to understanding the processes of continental growth and evolution. We use a combination of seismic observations and petrologic modeling to construct hypothetical crustal sections at representative locations across the CMB, then test the viability of these sections via forward modeling with synthetic seismic data. The compositions that make up our petrologic forward models are based on calculations using the free energy minimization program Perple_X to predict mineral assemblages at depth for the bulk compositions of exposed plutonic rocks collected in the study area. Seismic data were collected along two transects in west-central British Columbia: a southern line that crossed the CMB near the town of Bella Coola (near 52° N), and a northern line centered on the towns of Terrace and Kitimat (near 54° N). Along both transects, seismic receiver functions reveal high Vp/Vs ratios near the Insular/Intermontane terrane boundary and crustal thickness increasing from 26 ± 3 km to 34 ± 3 km (at the 1 sigma certainty level) from west to east across the Coast Shear Zone (CSZ). On the southern line, we observe an anomalous region of complex receiver functions and diminished Moho signals beneath the central portion of the CMB. Our petrologic and seismic profiles show that observed seismic data from much of the CMB can be well-matched in terms of crustal thickness and structure, average Vp/Vs, and amplitude of the Moho converted phase, without including ultramafic residual material in the lower crust.
Recurrence relations for computing with modified divided differences

Modified divided differences (MDD) provide a good way of representing a polynomial passing through points with unequally spaced abcissas. Recurrence relations for computing coefficients in either the monomial or Chebyshev basis from the MDD coefficients, and for computing the MDD coefficients for either the differentiated or the integrated polynomial are given. The latter operation is likely to be useful if MDD are used in a method for solving stiff differential equations.
Characterization of alliinase of Allium cepa (onion).

Abstract Various procedures for the preparation of protein fractions from onion, capable of converting S-alkyl- l -cysteine sulfoxides to ammonia, pyruvate, and alkyl alkane thiosulfinates are described. The identity of alliinase-produced carbonyl as pyruvic acid was established by the infrared spectrum of its 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazone and by coupling alliinase action to lactic dehydrogenase via reduced diphosphopyridine nucleotide. The enzyme acted maximally in the presence of pyridoxal phosphate and pyrophosphate buffer at pH 8.5–8.8, is very unstable at acid pH's, and possesses a Km of about 4 × 10−3M with (±)) S-propyl- l -cysteine sulfoxide as substrate. Evidence is presented for the role of pyridoxal phosphate as coenzyme of alliinase. The presence of the l -cysteine moiety and the sulfoxide grouping are absolute requirements for substrate specificity. The dextrarotatory diastereomers of the S-substituted l -cystine sulfoxides were hydrolyzed more rapidly than were the corresponding levorotatory forms. The unresolved S-propyl derivative was hydrolyzed faster than were both the S-methyl and most synthetic preparations of S-allyl derivatives employed. A quantitative method for the determination of thiolsulfinates is presented.
Diagnosis and Therapy of Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus

Studies in the basic and clinical sciences have yielded new information about the biology, infection, latency, and recurrence of the varicella-zoster virus. Contrast is made with the herpes simplex virus. The host-viral relationship is an extremely dynamic one with clinical disease being determined primarily by the host cellular immune system. The complications of herpes zoster ophthalmicus are related to multiple mechanisms including viral growth, vascular and neural damage, and the host-immune response to infection. There are several laboratory tests available for confirming the diagnosis or determining the immune status. Systemic acyclovir administered early in the course alleviates many of the symptoms of herpes zoster ophthalmicus. Acute and postherpetic neuralgia remain significant and enigmatic problems; an update of therapeutic options is offered. The role of corticosteroids in herpes zoster ophthalmicus is scrutinized along with the potential and uncertainties of a varicella-zoster virus vaccine.
Floseal gelatin matrix treatment of complex renal injuries in a porcine model

Abstract Introduction: We developed a complex porcine renal laceration model and tested the efficacy of a treatment regimen based on FLOSEAL gelatin matrix hemostatic sealant (Baxter Healthcare Corp, Fremont, CA). We evaluated the influence of preliminary renal vascular occlusion on hemostatic efficacy and the risk of urinoma formation after treatment. Methods: A total of 19 commercial swine a complex upper pole renal laceration via a 2 × 2 cm cruciate press instrument. The injury was uniformly produced on the left kidney. Subjects were randomized into 3 treatment groups. Experimental animals were treated with FLOSEAL gelatin matrix with (Group 1, n = 7) or without (Group 2, n = 6) preliminary renal vascular occlusion. Control subjects (Group 3, n = 6) were treated by a conventional sutured repair. Operative blood loss and time to hemostasis was compared between the groups. Abdominal CT scan was performed on each animal at 7 days. Results: Use of FLOSEAL gelatin matrix resulted in significantly less mean blood loss (Group 1—80.7 cc, Group 2—99.0 cc) versus conventional suture treatment (Group 3—191.8 cc, p = 0.036). Time to hemostasis was similarly reduced (Group 1—1.1 min, Group 2—2.5 min, Group 3—5.8 min, p = 0.009). Follow up CT scan revealed no evidence of significant perirenal fluid collections. Conclusions: FLOSEAL gelatin matrix hemostatic sealant provided effective hemostatic treatment after complex renal injury, both with and without preliminary vascular control. No delayed bleeding or urinoma formation was noted.
Effectiveness of Ascorbic Acid and Chromium in Counteracting the Negative Effects of Dietary Vanadium on Interior Egg Quality

Abstract Four experiments were conducted to investigate further the effects of V on hen performance and egg quality as well as on the ability of ascorbic acid and Cr to counteract the deleterious effects of V on interior egg quality. At 10 ppm, added V significantly reduced albumin quality as measured by Haugh units; and at 30 ppm and 100 ppm, respectively, significantly reduced rate of lay and feed consumption and also increased body weight loss. As measured by shell breaking strength or shell thickness, shell quality was not affected significantly by V (added to a maximum of 100 ppm). Ascorbic acid (100 to 5,000 ppm) effectively protected the hens from the reduction in albumen quality resulting from the addition of 10 ppm of V to the basal diet. Hen performance and egg quality were not significantly affected by adding 10 or 50 ppm of Cr to a diet with 10 ppm of added V, nor by adding 30 or 150 ppm of Cr to a diet with 30 ppm of added V. The added Cr failed to counteract the depressing effects of V on the Haugh units recorded, regardless of the composition of the basal diet.
SPECTROSCOPIC STUDIES OF CUTANEOUS PHOTOSENSITIZING AGENTS–XII. SPIN TRAPPING STUDY OF THE FREE RADICALS GENERATED DURING THE PHOTOLYSIS OF PHOTO ALLERGENS BITHIONOL and FENTICHLOR

Free radicals were trapped and observed by ESR when photoallergens bithionol and fentichlor were irradiated in the presence of spin traps N-t-butyl-α-phenylnitrone (PBN) and 5,5-dimethyl-pyrroline-N-oxide (DMPO). In the absence of air, both PBN and DMPO trapped a carbon-centered radical. The carbon-centered radical, which was capable of abstracting a hydrogen atom from cysteine, glutathione, ethanol and formate, was identified as an aryl radical derived from the homolytic cleavage of the carbon-chlorine bond. In the presence of air, both carbon-centered radicals and hydroxyl radicals were trapped by DMPO. Under similar conditions, the yield of the hydroxyl radicals was greater from bithionol than from fentichlor. The presence of the hydroxyl radical was confirmed by kinetic experiments employing hydroxyl radical scavengers (ethanol, formate). Superoxide and H2O2 were not involved. Experiments with oxygen-17O indicated that the hydroxyl radicals came exclusively from dissolved oxygen. The precursor of the hydroxyl radical is postulated to be a peroxy intermediate (ArOO*) derived from the reaction of an aryl radical (Ar*) with molecular oxygen. Both bithionol and fentichlor photoionized only when excited in the UVC (<270 nm) region. Free radicals have long been postulated in the photodechlorination of bithionol and fentichlor and the present study provides supporting evidence for such a mechanism. Aryl and hydroxyl radicals are reactive chemical species which may trigger a series of events that culminate in photoallergy.
Expenditure Tradeoffs in the American States: a Longitudinal Test, 1948-1984:

Over the years, numerous scholars have explored the degree to which there are tradeoffs between defense and domestic (mostly welfare) spending in the United States and other Western democracies (Russett 1970, 1982; Perroff and Podalak-Warren 1979; Domke, Eichenberg, and Kelleher 1983; Fischer and Kamlet 1984; Kamlet and Mowery 1987; Mintz 1989). While there is substantial scholarly disagreement about how tradeoffs among expenditure categories are best measured in the first place (cf., Berry and Lowery 1990), there seems to have emerged in the extant literature a consensus that calls into question the degree to which systematic tradeoffs exist between defense and domestic expenditures. Such a finding would seem to be at odds with some journalistic and historical accounts that claim evidence for tradeoff effects in the decision process for defense and domestic spending. Scholars have suggested that the lack of an observed pattern of tradeoffs may be due to the ability of national governments to avoid making hard decisions about trading spending for one expenditure area off against spending for another by financing new spending through either increased taxes or larger budget deficits (Domke et al. 1983; Mintz 1989). To date, there has been virtually no attempt to examine the degree to which tradeoffs occur among spending categories within the American states. To be sure, there are no spending categories analogous to defense and domestic spending found in the American states; it is clear that one cannot frame the question of expenditure tradeoffs in
Time motion study in a pediatric emergency department before and after computer physician order entry.

Study objective To determine the effect of computer physician order entry on pediatric emergency department (ED) care providers allocation of time. We seek to determine whether the increase in time by ED care providers on the computer will decrease time spent with patients. Methods This was a before-and-after observational time-and-motion study conducted at an urban pediatric ED. Observers recorded how caregivers allocated their time during 180-minute observation periods at 30-second increments the summers before after computer physician order entry introduction. Time on the computer was recorded in seconds. Observations were placed into 3 categories (direct patient care, indirect patient care, other), each with its own subcategories. Results For attending physicians, median computer time increased from 5.0 minutes before computer physician order entry to 9.5 minutes after computer physician order entry (P=.01). For resident physicians, median computer time increased from 5.5 minutes before computer physician order entry to 14.3 minutes after computer physician order entry (P=.001). For nurses, time on the computer was not significantly different before and after computer physician order entry (P=.15), although it appears there was still some change in time allocation. After computer physician order entry, nurses' talking with staff about patient care decreased from 24.5 minutes to 13.3 minutes (P=.01). Computer physician order entry did not decrease time with patients for any of the caregiver types. Conclusion The addition of computer physician order entry to a pediatric ED increases time spent on the computer by both attending and resident physicians but not for emergency nurses. This additional time on the computer is allocated from nonpatient care activities. The addition of computer physician order entry decreases nurses' time talking with other staff for patient care.
A population based approach to model network lifetime in wireless sensor networks

The physical constraints of battery-powered sensors impose limitations on their processing capacity and longetivity. As battery power in the nodes decays, certain parts of the network may become disconnected or the coverage may shrink, thereby reducing the reliability and the potency of the sensor network. Since sensor networks operate unattended and without maintainence, it is imperative that network failures are detected early enough so that corrective measures can be taken.Existing research has primarily concentrated on developing algorithms, be it distributed or centralized, to optimize network longetivity metrics. For instance, [4, 5] propose MAC layer optimizations to prolong longetivity, while [7, 6] look at the problem from a Layer 3 perspective. Works along the lines of actually building network models for energy consumption are addressed in [2], [3], but these models fail to capture the interplay between a node's spatial location and it's energy consumption.In our current work, we develop an unifying framework to characterize the lifetime of such energy constrained networks, and obtain insights into their working. In particular, we employ a framework similar to population models for biological systems, to model the network lifetime. We consider both spatial scenarios, where a node's power consumption is governed by it's position in space as well as non spatial scenarios, where the node's location and power consumption model are independent entities.
Using the partitioning principle to construct confidence sets for the location of a disease gene

Abstract Genetic linkage analysis using whole genome screening with large numbers of genetic markers has naturally generated debate as to appropriate multiplicity adjustments. We give an overview of what is known as the “partitioning principle” in the multiple comparisons literature, and we examine the linkage problem in light of this principle, arriving at a new approach to linkage analysis. Specifically, we construct an exact confidence set for the unknown locus. For “text book” models (those appropriate for backcross data relating to Mendelian, monogenic, autosomal, dominant traits), we reveal the (perhaps) surprising result that no multiplicity adjustment is necessary to maintain a given coverage probability, even if infinitely many markers are tested for inclusion in the confidence set.
A mutant Hpall methyltransferase functions as a mutator enzyme

Abstract DNA (cytosine-5)-methyltransferases can cause deamination of cytosine when the cofactor S-adenosylmethionine (AdoMet) is limiting and thus function as sequence-specific C-->U mutator enzymes. Here we explored whether mutations causing inactivation of the cofactor binding activity of the HpaII methyltransferase, thus mimicking conditions of limiting AdoMet concentration, could convert a DNA methyltransferase to a C-->U mutator enzyme. We created two mutator enzymes from the HpaII methyltransferase (F38S and G40D) which both showed enhanced cytosine deamination activities in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, the G:U mispairs generated by these enzymes were not repaired completely in bacteria equipped with uracil-DNA glycosylase-initiated repair machinery, giving rise to a potent mutator phenotype. This is the first report showing the creation of mutator enzymes from a DNA methyltransferase and the demonstration of their mutagenicity in living cells.
Liquid Chromatographic Method for the Analysis of All-rac-α-tocopheryl Acetate and Retinyl Palmitate in Soy Based Infant Formula Using Matrix Solid Phase Dispersion

Abstract A liquid chromatographic method is described for the analysis of all-rac-α-tocopheryl acetate and retinyl palmitate in soy based infant formula. The vitamins are extracted from infant formula without saponification by matrix solid phase dispersion (MSPD) and quantitated by normal phase chromatography with fluorescence detection. Retinyl palmitate and all-rac-α-tocopheryl acetate are quantitated isocratically with a mobile phase of hexane containing isopropanol @ 0.125% (v/v) and 0.5% (v/v), respectively. Results compared favorably to the label declaration on a retail infant formula product.
A study of (α, n) reactions on 9Be and 13C at low energies

Described in this work are measurements of the thick target neutron yield from reaction13C(α, n)16O. The yield was determined for laboratory bombarding energies between 0.475 MeV and 0.700 MeV using a stilbene scintillator neutron detector and pulse-shape discrimination to eliminate gamma rays. Stellar temperatures between 2.5 and 4.5 × 108 °K are involved in this energy region. The neutron yield was used to determine the astrophysical cross-section factor S(E), which was found to fit a linear function in the interaction energy E; S(E) = [(5.48±1.77)+(12.05±3.91)E] × 105 MeV · b, center-of-momentum system. The rate of the13C(α, n)16O reaction is discussed with reference to neutron production in the helium-burning region of a star. Results are also presented of measurements carried out on the reaction 9Be(α, n)12C taken with a thin Be target. The bombarding energy range covered was from 0.340 to 0.680 MeV with excitation curves for the ground and first excited state neutrons being reported. Resonances were found at bombarding energies of Elab = 0.520 MeV(Γ≈55 keV c.m., ωγ = 3.79 eV c.m.) and Elab = 0.600 MeV(Γ < 4keV c.m., ωγ = 0.88 eV c.m.).
Modernity and Social Knowledge Reconsidered: On John R. Hall’s Apocalypse

Apocalypse: From Antiquity to the Empire of Modernity. By John R. Hall. Cambridge, UK: Polity Press. 2009. ISBN 0745645097. 296 pages, $69.95 (cloth).Whatever one thinks of the classics of social theory as defined by canonization, two arguments about Marx, Weber, and Durkheim are both ubiquitous, and, on a surface level at least, clearly true. First: the classical social theorists were both products of, and developed theories about, Western European modernity. Second, that the founders of what we now call social theory also pursued intense empirical research agendas. Thus myriad commentaries on social theory, intellectual biographies of social theorists, and even some textbooks make three interrelated claims about the classical theorists: Marx, Durkheim, and Weber lived through and experienced, developed abstract theories of, and pursued research in and about "modernity," and, in particular, modern Western Europe from the advent of capitalism through industrialization to (in the case o... Language: en
Liquid and magma viscosity in the anorthite‐forsterite‐diopside‐quartz system and implications for the viscosity‐temperature paths of cooling magmas

[1] We measured the viscosity of 17 liquids in the systems anorthite-forsterite-quartz and anorthite-diopside-forsterite, representing analogs of dacitic, basaltic andesitic, and basaltic magmas. The three series lie in the anorthite liquidus fields and represent liquid lines of descent. The viscosity of evolving basaltic and basaltic andesite liquids changes little during cooling because the viscosity decrease associated with removal of polymerized anorthite component from the melt offsets the viscosity increase associated with cooling. A minimum liquidus viscosity in the basaltic system is encountered in the anorthite stability field. In contrast, dacitic liquids appear insensitive to the compositional changes during anorthite crystallization, and liquidus viscosity increases monotonically between anorthite and the anorthite-forsterite-quartz eutectic. Using the Einstein-Roscoe equation to calculate the rheological effect of crystals, we show that magma viscosity always increases during crystallization for closed systems and that crystallinity is the dominant control on the viscosity of all three magma series. We introduce the concept of viscosity paths, which may approach one of four end-members: (1) equilibrium crystallization (closed system) and (2) perfect fractional crystallization (open system) are both associated with changing residual liquid compositions; (3) supercooling without crystal growth maintains constant liquid composition, while (4) increasing crystallinity at constant liquid composition is only permissible for eutectic starting compositions. Because of the dependence of crystal-liquid segregation rates on liquid viscosity and crystal buoyancy, feedback relations exist between evolving liquid composition, crystallinity, and magma viscosity. Crystal-liquid segregation rates may increase or decrease during progressive cooling and crystallization of basaltic liquids.
Discussion of “Ultimate Lateral Resistance to Piles in Cohesionless Soils” by Linyang Zhang, Francisco Silva, and Ralph Grismala

The discusser considers one important point in the author's research -- support for the authors' inclusion of Prasad and Chari's 1999 lateral soil pressure and side shear distribution. The discusser cites a design nomograph prepared in 1947 by the late P.C. Rutledge for the Outdoor Advertising Association of America. The nomograph includes a design for lateral pressure distribution and the resultant horizontal forces against an embedded pole foundation resisting lateral wind loading against outdoor signs. The discusser notes the close matching of the Rutledge nomograph to the work of Prasad and Chari and concurs with the authors' choice to include the latter in their research on the distribution of rigid piles.
Patients with rare diseases using pharmacists for medication information

Abstract Objectives: To determine whether patients with a rare illness (1) use pharmacists for medication information more or less frequently than physicians and the Internet, (2) perceive pharmacists as a more or less credible medical information resource than physicians and the Internet, and (3) obtain different types of medication information from pharmacists, physicians, and the Internet. Design: Cross-sectional survey. Setting: Online data collected between 2008 and 2009. Patients: Adult, English-proficient vasculitis patients (n = 232) who were taking at least one medication to treat their vasculitis. Intervention: Administration of online survey. Main outcome measures: Patient use of pharmacists, physicians, and the Internet for medication information; perceived credibility of pharmacists, physicians, and the Internet as sources of medication information; and types of medication information obtained from pharmacists, physicians, and the Internet. Results: Participants consulted physicians and the Internet more than pharmacists for medication information; only 96 participants (41.4%) ever used pharmacists for vasculitis medication information. Females and participants who used community pharmacies were significantly more likely to consult pharmacists for medication information as compared with males and patients who did not use community pharmacies. Participants perceived pharmacists were a less credible source of medication information than physicians and the Internet. Participants used physicians and/or the Internet more than pharmacists for five of eight types of medication information, including adverse effects and drug effectiveness. Conclusion: Vasculitis patients consulted sources other than pharmacists for medication information. Several factors, including perceived pharmacist credibility and a noncommunity-based pharmacy, may contribute to infrequent patient use of pharmacists as a medication information source. Future qualitative research should document how patients with rare disease perceive and interact with pharmacists to understand why many view pharmacists as only moderately credible sources of medication information.