cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Importance of surgical margins in the management of renal cell carcinoma.

Over 200,000 new diagnoses of renal cell carcinoma are made each year in the US, Europe and Australia. Surgical resection is the standard treatment procedure for this disorder; however, there are concerns about what type of nephrectomy procedure will avoid positive surgical margins and high recurrence rates. In this Review, Lam and colleagues assess the different methods of nephrectomy and consider their associations with surgical margins and, therefore, patient prognosis. Surgical resection remains the standard treatment for clinically localized renal cell carcinoma. Pathological features of the surgical specimen, including the margin status, play an important part in determining the patient's prognosis. Negative surgical margins have traditionally been sought to maximize the efficacy of treatment. Initial concerns that partial nephrectomy might have high local recurrence rates compared with radical nephrectomy have now been minimized as a result of technological advances and refinements in surgical technique. Current concerns in relation to partial nephrectomy include the width of parenchymal tissue that should be removed to avoid positive surgical margins, effects of positive margins on recurrence-free survival, and the use of frozen-section analysis to determine margin status. Size of the surgical margin in partial nephrectomy does not seem to affect the risk of local tumor recurrence, and not all positive surgical margins lead to recurrent disease. Intraoperative frozen-section analysis is not definitive and its value in guiding the surgical management of renal tumors remains to be defined. Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy is emerging as an attractive approach for selected renal masses. Intraoperative use of ultrasound, cold-scissor parenchymal transection, embolization, and hilar clamping to achieve a bloodless operative field with clear visibility, may minimize the risk of positive margins during partial nephrectomy.
The Elementary Structures of Kinship by Claude Lévi‐Strauss: A Review Article

S OF PAPERS OF THE ANNUAL MEETING. Published three times a year. By subscription to nonmembers
Single-molecule dataset (SMD): a generalized storage format for raw and processed single-molecule data

Single-molecule techniques have emerged as incisive approaches for addressing a wide range of questions arising in contemporary biological research [Trends Biochem Sci 38:30–37, 2013; Nat Rev Genet 14:9–22, 2013; Curr Opin Struct Biol 2014, 28C:112–121; Annu Rev Biophys 43:19–39, 2014]. The analysis and interpretation of raw single-molecule data benefits greatly from the ongoing development of sophisticated statistical analysis tools that enable accurate inference at the low signal-to-noise ratios frequently associated with these measurements. While a number of groups have released analysis toolkits as open source software [J Phys Chem B 114:5386–5403, 2010; Biophys J 79:1915–1927, 2000; Biophys J 91:1941–1951, 2006; Biophys J 79:1928–1944, 2000; Biophys J 86:4015–4029, 2004; Biophys J 97:3196–3205, 2009; PLoS One 7:e30024, 2012; BMC Bioinformatics 288 11(8):S2, 2010; Biophys J 106:1327–1337, 2014; Proc Int Conf Mach Learn 28:361–369, 2013], it remains difficult to compare analysis for experiments performed in different labs due to a lack of standardization. Here we propose a standardized single-molecule dataset (SMD) file format. SMD is designed to accommodate a wide variety of computer programming languages, single-molecule techniques, and analysis strategies. To facilitate adoption of this format we have made two existing data analysis packages that are used for single-molecule analysis compatible with this format. Adoption of a common, standard data file format for sharing raw single-molecule data and analysis outcomes is a critical step for the emerging and powerful single-molecule field, which will benefit both sophisticated users and non-specialists by allowing standardized, transparent, and reproducible analysis practices.
Light front cloudy bag model: Nucleon electromagnetic form factors

The nucleon is modeled, using light front dynamics, as a relativistic system of three bound constituent quarks emersed in a cloud of pions. The pionic cloud is important for understanding low-momentum transfer physics, especially the neutron charge radius, but the quarks are dominant at large momentum transfer. The model achieves a very good description of existing data for the four electromagnetic elastic form factors.
Review: Diffuser Design and Performance Analysis by a Unified Integral Method

A computational tool, called a Unified Integral Method (UIM) is reviewed. The method is used for preliminary design and performance analysis of simple diffusers with thin inlet boundary layers and subsonic flow in their inviscid core regions. The assumptions needed for application of a UIM are not very restrictive in many practical cases: straight diffusers with thin, turbulent inlet boundary layers and subsonic, irrotational core flows. The method provides designers with useful results including pressure recovery, location of separation and stalled regions, and exit plane profiles which may be used to evaluate total pressure loss and various flow distortion indices. Besides reviewing some basic concepts concerning stall and separation, describing the basis of the method and some details for making the UIM work, actual cases where it was tested versus data are discussed. In addition, UIM results are compared to results obtained by a RANS method run in a well known duct flow solver for a subsonic diffuser where data are also available. In another case, its output and data were compared to results from a CFD code typical of the many design codes in use in industry today
Chemistry of thienopyridines. XIX. Further studies on chlorination and S-oxidation in the thieno[2,3-b] pyridine system

Treatment of thieno [2,3-b] pyridine (1a) with chlorine gas in chloroform (plus water) gave a mixture of two 2,3-dichloro-2,3-dihydrothieno[2,3-b] pyridine 1-oxides [trans-syn (IIa), and cis-anti (IIb)) [and 2,3,3-trichloro-2,3-dihydrothieno[2,3-b]pyridine syn-1-oxide (IVa), as well as a non-isolated fourth product (prohably the anti isomer of IVa) and sometimes a small amount of thieno[2,3-b]pyridine 1,1-dioxide (III). Treatment of Ia in a solvent (water, chloroform-water, or THF-water) with sulfuric acid and sodium hypochlorite gave a mixture of IIb and III. Effects of variations of reaction conditions on the composition of the product mixture were ascertained through chemical isolation and/or pmr analysis. Products formed were rationalized in terms of the chlorine-water-hypochlorous acid equilibrium, plus attack of chlorine variously at positions 1 (S-atom), 2, and 3 of 1a, but of hypochlorous acid only at position 1. Thermal and chromatographic limitations on isolation procedures for some of the products were established. Stereochemistries of IIa, IIb, and IVa were assigned by means of pmr spectrometry with the aid of the shift reagent Eu(fod)3. Spin-spin couplings between the proton at position 2 and those at positions 4 and 6 were observed at high resolution. In exploratory runs, 5-ethyl-la was converted into isolable 2,3-dichloro-5-ethyl-2,3-dihydrothieno[2,3-b]pyridine 1-oxide, and 5-acetyl-Ia yielded 3-chloro-5-acetylthieno] 2,3-b]pyridine. Mass spectral fragmentation patterns for the various products are presented.
All-terrain vehicle safety and use patterns in central Illinois youth

CONTEXT: All-terrain vehicles' (ATVs) popularity and associated injuries among children are increasing in the United States. Currently, most known ATV use pattern data are obtained from injured youth and little documented data exist characterizing the typical ATV use patterns and safety practices among American children in general. PURPOSE: To describe the typical ATV safety and use patterns of rural youth. METHODS: A cross-sectional anonymous mail survey was conducted of youth participants (ages 8-18) in the 4-H Club of America in four Central Illinois counties. Questions examined ATV use patterns, safety knowledge, safety equipment usage, crashes, and injuries. FINDINGS: Of 1,850 mailed surveys, 634 were returned (34% response rate) with 280 surveys (44% of respondents) eligible for analysis. Respondents were principally adolescent males from farms or rural locations. Most drove Language: en
Generational Discontinuity in Beliefs: An Exploration of the Generation Gap

Empirical studies indicated little evidence for generational differences on the level of beliefs traditionally referred to as attitudes (see Rokeach's typology). At the intermediate level of beliefs, those concerning authority, there appeared more possibility of generational discontinuity, especially in relation to the legitimacy of national institutions. Although very little research has been done on value orientations, studies of political attitudes have indicated higher parent-child agreement on partisan attitudes than on political value orientations. Data from a sample of college students and their parents indicate striking generational differences on another value orientation, a measure of time perspective. It appears that writers who have argued that a counterculture is emerging among the younger generation are concentrating on the value orientation level, while the debunkers of the notion of a generation gap have focused almost entirely upon the level of attitudes.
The Survival and Destruction of X-Ray Coronae of Early-Type Galaxies in Rich Cluster Environments: A Case Study of A1367

A new Chandra observation of the northwest region of the galaxy cluster A1367 reveals four cool galaxy coronae (0.4-1.0 keV) embedded in the hot (5-6 keV) intracluster medium (ICM). While the large coronae of NGC 3842 and NGC 3837 appear symmetric and relaxed, the galaxy coronae of the L* galaxies (NGC 3841 and CGCG 97090) are disturbed and being stripped. Massive galaxies, generally with dense cooling cores, are better able to resist ram pressure stripping and survive in rich environments than L* galaxies, whose galactic coronae are generally much less dense. The survival of these cool coronae implies that thermal conduction from the hot surrounding ICM has to be suppressed by a factor of at least 60 at the corona boundary. Within the galaxy coronae of NGC 3842 and NGC 3837, stellar mass loss or heat conduction with the Spitzer value may be sufficient to balance radiative cooling. Energy deposition at the ends of collimated jets may heat the outer coronae but allow the survival of a small, dense gas core (e.g., NGC 3842 in A1367 and NGC 4874 in the Coma Cluster). The surviving X-ray coronae become significantly smaller and fainter with the increasing ambient pressure.
On the origin of magnetoresistance in ferromagnetic perovskite structures

In the presence of a nonuniform distribution of spin interactions in ferromagnetic perovskite materials, thermally activated magnetic domains appear. These domains are different from ordinary static ferromagnetic domains, rather their structures depend on temperature, magnetic field, and details of the distribution of magnetic interactions. Due to the half‐metallic nature of these materials, magnetic domain boundaries contribute significantly to their electrical resistivity. Magnetoresistive effects are discussed within this framework.
An experimental investigation of unsteady surface pressure on an airfoil in turbulence—Part 1: Effects of mean loading

Abstract An experimental investigation into the response of an airfoil in turbulence is undertaken and the results are presented in a two part series of papers. The effects of mean loading on the airfoil response are investigated in this paper (Part 1) with the likely sources discussed in Part 2. Unsteady surface pressure measurements were made on a NACA 0015 immersed in grid turbulence ( λ / c = 13 % ) for angles of attack, α = 0 – 20 ° , with a dense array of pressure transducers. These measurements reveal a reduction of up to 5 dB in pressure spectral level as the angle of attack is increased for reduced frequencies less than 5. This observed mean-loading effect has never before been measured or shown to occur theoretically. Lift spectra computed from pressure measurements show a similar result. Furthermore, the reduction in lift spectral level appears to have an α2 dependence. Also, for small angles of attack ( α 8 ° ) Amiet's zero-mean-loading theory may be useful for predicting the airfoil response since the reduction in spectral level is less than 1 dB here. Based on comparisons at α = 0 ° , Amiet's theory predicts with reasonable accuracy (within 4 dB at low frequency) pressure and lift spectral levels. This theory successfully predicts the shape of both pressure and lift spectra and the decrease in pressure spectral level moving away from the airfoil leading edge. Additionally, Reba and Kerschen's theory, which accounts for non-zero-mean loading using Rapid Distortion Theory, predicts large increases in pressure and lift spectral levels not shown to occur in the measurement. The predicted rise in spectral level appears to result from the flat-plate model with leading-edge singularity which does not fully account for the distortion of the inflow.
Effect of Ventricular Shock Strength on Cardiac Hemodynamics

Ventricular Defibrillation and Cardiac Function. Introduction: The effect of implantable detibrillator shocks on cardiac hemodynamics is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that ventricular defibrillator shocks adversely effect cardiac hemodynamics. Methods and Results: The cardiac index was determined by calculating the mitral valve inflow with transesophogeal Doppler during nonthoracotomy defibrillator implantation in 17 patients. Tbe cardiac index was determined before, and immediately, 1 minute, 2 minutes, and 4 minutes after sbocks were delivered during defibrillation energy requirement testing with 27to 34-, 15-, I0-, 5-, 3-, or 1-J shocks. Tbe cardiac Index was also measured at tbe same time points after 27- to 34-, and 1-J sbocks delivered during tbe baseline rhytbm. Tbe cardiac index decreased from 2.30 ± 0.40 L/min per m- before a 27- to 34-J sbock during defibrillation energy requirement testing to 2.14 ± 0.45 L/min per m- immediately afterwards (P = 0.001). Tbis effect persisted for > 4 minutes. An adverse bemodynamic effect of similar magnitude occurred after 15 J (P = 0.003) and lO-J sbocks (P = 0.01), but dissipated after 4 minutes and witbin 2 minutes, respectively. Tbere was a significant correlation between sbock strength and the percent cbange in cardiac index (r = 0.3, P = 0.03). The cardiac index decreased 14% after a 27- to 34-J sbock during tbe baseline rhytbm (P 9 J delivered during tbe baseline rbytbm or during defibrillation energy requirement testing result in a 10% to 15% reduction in cardiac index, wbereas smaller energy sbocks do not affect cardiac bemodynamics. Tbe duration and extent of tbe adverse effect are proportional to tbe sbock strengtb. Sbock strengtb, and not ventricular fibrillation, appears to be most responsible for tbis effect. Tberefore, the detrimental hemodynamic effects of high-energy sbocks may be avoided wben low-energy defibrillation is used.
Reconstituted Voltage-Sensitive Sodium Channels from Eel Electroplax: Activation of Permeability by Quaternary Lidocaine, N-bromoacetamide, and N-bromosuccinimide

We have investigated the ion permeability properties of sodium channels purified from eel electroplax and reconstituted into liposomes. Under the influence of a depolarizing diffusion potential, these channels appear capable of occasional spontaneous openings. Fluxes which result from these openings are sodium selective and blocked (from opposite sides of the membrane) by tetrodotoxin (TTX) and moderate concentrations of the lidocaine analogue QX-314. Low concentrations of QX-314 paradoxically enhance this channel-mediated flux. N-bromoacetamide (NBA) and N-bromosuccinimide (NBS), reagents which remove inactivation gating in physiological preparations, transiently stimulate the sodium permeability of inside-out facing channels to high levels. The rise and subsequent fall of permeability appear to result from consecutive covalent modifications of the protein. Titration of the protein with the more reactive NBS can be used to produce stable, chronically active forms of the protein. Low concentrations of QX-314 produce a net facilitation of channel activation by NBA, while higher concentrations produce block of conductance. This suggests that rates of modifications by NBA which lead to the activation of permeability are influenced by conformational changes induced by QX-314 binding.
Distribution of tritiated thymidine about a capillary sinusoid in a transplanted mouse tumour.

DURING an investigation of the uptake of tritiated thymidine by mouse tumour tissue, fortuitous sections of tumour were found showing a large capillary sinusoid cut along its long axis for a distance of 2,000µ. Autoradiographs of these sections showed concentric zones of labelled cells, unlabelled cells morphologically intact, and necrotic tumour cells, at increasing distances from the capillary.
Cardiovascular Measures of Attention to Illusory and Nonillusory Visual Stimuli

This study was an extension of the Berntson, Cacioppo, and Fieldstone (1996) study that found that attending to visual illusions presented with text (usually a question directing attention to the illusory property) lengthened heart period via uncoupled vagal activation. Eighty participants were assigned to one of four groups that received either the original Berntson et al. illusions or a modification formed by the factorial combination of whether the illusion and its related text were present or absent. Participants also performed the same serial-subtraction mental-arithmetic task from Berntson et al. During the mental-arithmetic task heart period (HP) shortened, respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) was reduced, and preejection period (PEP) shortened, which indicated a reciprocally coupled sympathetic activation and parasympathetic inhibition mode of cardiac control. Although idiographic analyses found this to be the most common control mode, all other modes were also obtained – especially the nonreciproca...
Quantum critical behavior of magnetic field-dependent resistivity of CeCu6−xAgx

Abstract For various antiferromagnetic systems the antiferromagnetic long-range order phase transition can be suppressed by pressure or doping. A crossover from magnetic to Fermi liquid behavior occurs at a critical value of the tuning parameter, where non-Fermi liquid behavior can be observed. We have strong evidence that this scenario works also for an external magnetic field as tuning parameter in the system CeCu6−xAgx.
PPARα in atherosclerosis and inflammation

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)alpha is a nuclear receptor activated by natural ligands such as fatty acids as well as by synthetic ligands such as fibrates currently used to treat dyslipidemia. PPARalpha regulates the expression of genes encoding proteins that are involved in lipid metabolism, fatty acid oxidation, and glucose homeostasis, thereby improving markers for atherosclerosis and insulin resistance. In addition, PPARalpha exerts anti-inflammatory effects both in the vascular wall and the liver. Here we provide an overview of the mechanisms through which PPARalpha affects the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis, with emphasis on the modulation of atherosclerosis-associated inflammatory responses. PPARalpha activation interferes with early steps in atherosclerosis by reducing leukocyte adhesion to activated endothelial cells of the arterial vessel wall and inhibiting subsequent transendothelial leukocyte migration. In later stages of atherosclerosis, evidence suggests activation of PPARalpha inhibits the formation of macrophage foam cells by regulating expression of genes involved in reverse cholesterol transport, formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and associated lipoprotein oxidative modification among others. Furthermore, PPARalpha may increase the stability of atherosclerotic plaques and limit plaque thrombogenicity. These various effects may be linked to the generation of PPARalpha ligands by endogenous mechanisms of lipoprotein metabolism. In spite of this dataset, other reports implicate PPARalpha in responses such as hypertension and diabetic cardiomyopathy. Although some clinical trials data with fibrates suggest that fibrates may decrease cardiovascular events, other studies have been less clear, in terms of benefit. Independent of the clinical effects of currently used drugs purported to achieve PPARalpha, extensive data establish the importance of PPARalpha in the transcriptional regulation of lipid metabolism, atherosclerosis, and inflammation.
Rich evidence: Anticipation research in progress

This journal remains a reference impossible to ignore for all those who are interested in the subject of anticipation. Robert Rosen had many reasons for entrusting much of his writing to the Intern...
Effect of epinephrine on end-tidal carbon dioxide monitoring during CPR.

End-tidal carbon dioxide (ETco 2 ) has been shown to correlate with coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) during CPR and has been proposed as a useful noninvasive monitor of CPR efficacy. The effects of therapeutic epinephrine dosing on ETco 2 and CPP in six dogs were examined. Ventricular fibrillation was induced and left untreated for five minutes before CPR was initiated. After five minutes of CPR, epinephrine 0.045 mg/kg IV was administered. CPP and ETco 2 were compared immediately before and two minutes after epinephrine administration. There was a significant increase in CPP from 12.2 ± 9.6 to 26.8 ± 7.1 mm Hg ( P = .006) after epinephrine. This was accompanied by a significant decrease in ETco 2 from 8.2 ± 2.9 to 3.8 ± 2.0 mm Hg ( P = .01). These data indicate that after epinephrine administration, caution must be exercised in using ETco 2 as an indicator of CPP.
Stalin's Great Terror and International Espionage

No political leader lives without espionage. While astute political leaders know well the traps inherent in the mutual deception game of espionage, Stalin's Great Terror of 1937–38 illustrates the extraordinary reach of espionage. In this particular case, Stalin set traps for the world in order to prepare for a forthcoming showdown with his mortal enemies, Germany in particular. He took nearly a million lives of men and women of his own country in the process. Although the Terror still remains an enigma, it appears that Stalin's traps still ensnare people. This offers lessons to be learned about politics in general.
Abduction-pronation and recession of second (index) metacarpal in thumb agenesis

Thumb dysplasia imposes a proportionately greater functional deficit than does dysplasia of any other digit. To simulate an opposable unit, the child with but four normal fingers naturally will turn to the next most radial (index) digit and by abducting and pronating will widen his first cleft. When the thumb is absent bilaterally, formal neurovascular pollicitation of at least one index digit is the logical choice. The inherent deficiencies in formal pollicization, however, may detract from its use in certain instances, for example, unilateral thumb aplasia or thumb aplasia associated with radial club hand. A simpler procedure performed at age 3 or 4 years avoids many of these deficiencies while still creating a more functional pinch and grasp. Through a small web incision, the index metacarpal is separated from the adjacent metacarpal. The base of the index metacarpal is sectioned and shortened 1.5 cm. The digit is recessed, rotated and abducted radially and palmarly, then immobilized by a K-wire fixation to its base. Since 1960, 17 procedures have been performed with good functional result and acceptable appearance.
Disturbance History of a Mixed Conifer Stand in Central Idaho, USA

Abstract We apply a combination of suppression and release criteria to reconstruct the disturbance history of a ponderosa pine – Douglas-fir stand in central Idaho. In this stand, disturbance, likely fire, induced growth releases in some trees, and sudden, severe suppressions in others. To characterize growth release following disturbance, we developed boundary-line release criteria for Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine. Suppression criteria were applied to identify disturbances defined as a growth reduction of more than 1.8 standard deviations sustained for a minimum of five years. To prevent confusing a true release event with growth increases associated with recovery from suppression, release events were not tallied for at least fifteen years following a suppression event. Release and suppression events were combined to create a disturbance chronology characterized by a high frequency of disturbance between 1820 and 1920. This period of disturbance likely reflects post-European settlement land uses such a...
Promoting lifelong health for adolescents and young adults with special health care needs.

This issue of Pediatrics launches a series entitled “Promoting Lifelong Health for Adolescents and Young Adults With Special Health Care Needs.” Each article in the series provides a state-of-the-art review of the transition from pediatric to adult-centered care for adolescents and young adults with a specific health condition beginning in childhood. The first 2 articles in the series address conditions at opposite ends of the transition spectrum. In this issue, Simon et al1 describe hydrocephalus as a prototypical condition in need of transition services. Despite the complex care typically required as children with hydrocephalus mature to adulthood, programs to facilitate their transition from pediatric to adult-care settings do not exist. In contrast, transition for adolescents with cystic fibrosis increasingly is planned, gradual, and collaborative. As described in an upcoming review, patients with cystic fibrosis, along with their families and health care teams, now have model programs designed to provide for them seamless, family-centered, outcome-driven care … Address correspondence to Gail B. Slap, MD, MSc, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Department of Pediatrics, 34th Street and Civic Center Boulevard, Main Building, 11NW71, Philadelphia, PA 19104. E-mail: slapg{at}email.chop.edu
Truthmaking and Grounding

AbstractThis paper is concerned with the relation between two important metaphysical notions, ‘truthmaking’ and ‘grounding’. I begin by considering various ways in which truthmaking could be explicated in terms of grounding, noting both strengths and weaknesses of these analyses. I go on to articulate a problem for any attempt to analyze truthmaking in terms of a generic and primitive notion of grounding based on differences we find among examples of grounding. Finally, I outline a more complex view of how truthmaking and grounding could relate. On the view explored, truthmaking is a species of grounding differentiated from other species of grounding by the unique form of dependence it involves.
Velocity circulations in free-surface flows

Abstract The equations of balance between horizontal and vertical accelerations on a free surface are derived from the Euler equations for vertical flows with arbitrary distribution of density. From these equations it follows that the velocity circulations on a free surface are invariants of motion. Application of these invariants to the problem of persistence of ship wakes over long distances is discussed. The effects of surface tension and molecular viscosity on velocity circulations are also considered.
A Physical Computing Studio: Exploring Computational Artifacts and Environments

This paper describes a studio that explores interfaces for computationally enhanced artifacts and environments. The studio is designed as a traditional architectural design studio, fostering creative thinking and encouraging hands-on learning. It brings students from art, music, architecture, computer science, and engineering together into teams to design and build physical computing projects. The team's unusual mix of knowledge and experience allows for creative solutions. As a result, the studio has become a test bed for new and interesting ideas.
Abdominal wall hernias in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysmal versus aortoiliac occlusive disease

BACKGROUND : This study was undertaken to determine the incidence of ventral incisional hernias (VIHs) and inguinal hernias (IHs) in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysmal (AAA) versus those with aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD). PATIENTS AND METHODS : The medical records of 193 patients (128 with AAA and 65 with AIOD) who had undergone elective aortic reconstruction were reviewed to determine the number and location of abdominal wall hernias (AWHs). RESULTS : Forty-one AWHs (28 IHs and 13 VIHs) were detected in patients with AAA compared to 13 (11 IHs and 2 VIHs) in patients with AIOD. There was a significantly greater incidence of VlHs in patients with AAA versus patients with AIOD (10% versus 3%, P <0.05) and recurrent AWHs (28% versus 19%, P <0.01), but not of IHs (22% versus 17%). CONCLUSION : Patients with AAA have a higher incidence of VlHs and recurrent AWHs-without a corresponding increase in patient-related risk factors-than patients without aneurysm, suggesting that as yet unidentified etiologic factors may contribute to the development of AWHs in these patients.
Habitat use by the fishing spiderDolomedes triton in a northern Everglades wetland

We investigated patterns of habitat use by adult fishing spidersDolomedes triton in a seasonally dynamic freshwater wetland of the northern Everglades. Spiders were collected monthly (July 1990-January 1992) in adjacent wet prairie, alligator hole, and sawgrass habitats. Overall density of adult fishing spiders during the study period was 0.1 spiders per m2, although there was extensive seasonal variation in abundance of these semi-aquatic arthropod predators. Densities were significantly higher in sawgrass stands than in wet prairies or alligator holes, which did not differ from one another. Sawgrass sites were characterized by shallower water depths, taller and denser canopy structure, more extensive litter deposits, and fewer potential avian and piscine predators. Overall, these data suggest that structural complexity and habitat heterogeneity influence the demographics of the fishing spider in this Everglades marsh system.
Induction of FMLP-mediated calcium mobilization requires crosslinking of surface immunoglobulin in Daudi cells.

Abstract We have explored the requirements for the induction of the N -formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (FMLP) response in Daudi cells after anti-immunoglobulin treatment. Our results indicate that (a) induction of responsiveness to FMLP was observed in Daudi only after crosslinking of surface immunoglobulin by anti-immunoglobulin; (b) this induced responsiveness was not observed in Ramos or Wil-2 cells; (c) the F(ab′) 2 fragment was sufficient for the induction of the FMLP response, but the Fab fragment and the Fc fragment were ineffective; (d) of the many agents active in B lymphocyte regulation which were tested, none were as effective as anti-immunoglobulin in the induction of the FMLP response; and (e) three inhibitors of calcium mobilization (W-7 ( N -(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphthalene sulfonamide), PMA (phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate), and colchicine), acting on distinct mechanisms, inhibited both the calcium mobilization due to anti-immunoglobulin and the induction of responsiveness to FMLP. Our results suggest important determinants in the induction of a calcium-mobilizing FMLP response in cells of B lymphocyte lineage include (a) the cell type, (b) a selective requirement for activation via surface immunoglobulin, and (c) crosslinking of the surface immunoglobulin.
A Simple Equation to Predict a Subscore's Value.

Subscores are often used to indicate test-takers' relative strengths and weaknesses and so help focus remediation. But a subscore is not worth reporting if it is too unreliable to believe or if it contains no information that is not already contained in the total score. It is possible, through the use of a simple linear equation provided in this note, to determine if a particular subscore adds enough value to be worth reporting.
A New Species of Heliochona, H. psychra n. sp. (Ciliata: Chonotrichida), from Nuwuk Lake, Alaska*

SYNOPSIS. Heliochona psychra n. sp. (Ciliata: Chonotrichi-da), an ectocommensal on the pleopodal bristles of Gammarus setosa Dementieva from Nuwuk Lake, a marine halocline lake at Point Barrow, Alaska is described. H. psychra differs from the older species H. scheutenii Stein and H. sessilis Plate in its size, outline of the cytosome, and appearance of the funnel rays.
Bradycardia-mediated tachyarrhythmias in congenital heart disease and responses to chronic pacing at physiologic rates.

Abstract The coexistence of bradycardia and a tachyarrhythmia may preclude effective pharmacologic treatment of 1 arrhythmia without paradoxic aggravation of the other. This study evaluated the potential relation between the 2 types of arrhythmias and the effect of conventional modes and rates of pacing for bradycardia on the frequency of the associated tachyarrhythmias. Twenty-one young patients, aged 2 to 19 (mean 11) years with congenital heart disease and a tachyarrhythmia occurring in the setting of chronic bradycardia were studied. The effects of pacing were evaluated by comparison of the number of episodes of clinical tachycardia during the 12-month intervals before and after pacemaker implantation. During these intervals, antiarrhythmic drug therapy was not altered. Patients were analyzed as independent groups, based on the type of tachyarrhythmia: supraventricular (n = 5), atrial flutter (n = 9) and ventricular (n = 7). The modes of chronic pacing were AAI (n = 4), DDD (n = 6) and VVI (n = 11). The prevention of bradycardia by pacing was associated with a significant decrease in the frequency of supraventricular (p = 0.008) and ventricular (p = 0.02) tachyarrhythmias. However, the frequency of atrial flutter was not altered. Prevention of tachycardia was more frequently associated with the AAI and DDD modes of pacing compared to VVI (p = 0.08). Pacing represents an effective therapy for certain tachyarrhythmias associated with chronic bradycardia, although critical modes may be required.
Modeling Extreme Rainfall, Winds, and Surge from Hurricane Isabel (2003)

Abstract Landfalling tropical cyclones present major hazards for the eastern United States. Hurricane Isabel (September 2003) produced more than $3.3 billion in damages from wind, inland riverine flooding, and storm surge flooding, and resulted in 17 fatalities. Case study analyses of Hurricane Isabel are carried out to investigate multiple hazards from landfalling tropical cyclones. The analyses focus on storm evolution following landfall and center on simulations using the Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF). WRF simulations are coupled with the 2D, depth-averaged hydrodynamic Advanced Circulation Model (ADCIRC), to examine storm surge in the Chesapeake Bay. Analyses of heavy rainfall and flooding include an examination of the structure and evolution of extreme rainfall over land. Intercomparisons of simulated rainfall from WRF with Hydro-NEXRAD rainfall fields and observations from rain gauge networks are presented. A particular focus of these analyses is the evolving distribution of rainfall,...
Structure—activity relationships of organotin biocides and Ceratocystis ulmi

The effect of organotin compounds on the growth of Ceratocystis ulmi, the causative agent of Dutch elm disease, was studied in shake culture. Triphenyltin, (C6H5)3SnX, tricyclohexyltin, (C6H11)3SnX, and tributyltin, (C4H9)3SnX, compounds were all effective in the inhibition of C. ulmi in vitro. The anionic group, X, did not play a major role in the inhibitory activities of these compounds, suggesting that the species involved in the inhibition is R3Sn+ or the hydrated cation.
Fine structure of the colonial radiolarian Collozoum serpentinum (Polycystinea: Spumellaria) with a reconsideration of its taxonomic status and re-establishment of the genus Collophidium (Haeckel)

Abstract Fine structural evidence shows that Collozoum serpentinum differs substantially from two previously examined species Collozoum inerme and Collozoum caudatum . The latter two have spheroidal to prolate central capsules with rounded nuclei and radially arranged lobes of cytoplasm radiating from the center of the central capsules. C. serpentinum has contorted, elongated (greater than 1 mm) cylindrical central capsules, and the intracapsular cytoplasm is highly vacuolated and suspended in a network of denser cytoplasm containing major intracellular organelles including nuclei with irregular shape, mitochondria, and Golgi bodies. This network organization of the intracapsular cytoplasm is distinctly different from the fine structure of Collozoum species examined thus far. These data, combined with molecular genetic evidence (Amaral Zettler et al., 1999), indicate that C. serpentinum is not as closely related to other Collozoum species as was previously thought. Based on this evidence, we suggest that Haeckel's original designation of a separate genus ( Collophidium ) is more appropriate for colonial radiolaria with contorted, cylindrical central capsules as represented by C. serpentinum .
Isolation of Microsporum vanbreuseghemii from Soil in India

The isolation of Microsporum vanbreuseghemii has been reported from a soil sample originating from Jullundur city, Punjab, India. This represents the first record of its isolation from soil.
Relapsing polychondritis in pregnancy: a case report and review.

A case of relapsing polychondritis is reported. This woman was delivered of two normal infants at term.
Oxygen Cost of Walking in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis: Disability Matters, but Why?

Background. The oxygen cost (O2 cost) of walking is elevated in persons with MS, particularly as a function of increasing disability status. Objective. The current study examined symptomatic (i.e., fatigue, pain, anxiety, and depression) and gait (i.e., velocity, cadence, and step length) variables that might explain why disability status is associated with O2 cost of walking in persons with MS. Materials and Methods. 82 participants completed the Patient-Determined Disease Steps, Fatigue Severity Scale, McGill Pain Questionnaire, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and undertook 2 trials of walking on a GAITRite electronic walkway. Participants then completed a six-minute walk test with concurrent assessment of expired gases for quantifying oxygen consumption and O2 cost of walking. Results. Disability (r = 0.55) as well as fatigue (r = 0.22), gait velocity (r = -0.62), cadence (r = -0.73), and step length (r = -0.53) were associated with the O2 cost of walking. Cadence (β = -0.67), but not step length (β = -0.14) or fatigue (β = -0.10), explained the association between disability and the O2 cost of walking. Conclusions. These results highlight cadence as a target of rehabilitation for increasing metabolic efficiency during walking among those with MS, particularly as a function of worsening disability.
The role of channel states in secret key generation

In this work, we investigate secret key generation from channel states. We point out, by means of a packet-delay-based attack, that observing its own channel states is not the only way an adversary can learn about the channel states of the legitimate communicating parties. The attack suggests that it is not secure to transmit data via the channel whose states generate secret keys. However, not using the channel at all would result in a waste of bandwidth. Hence, we propose using this channel to transmit the bits needed to reconcile the channel state estimates at the transmitter and the receiver. This is a necessary step in secret key generation that required a separate channel in previous work. Although the scheme proposed here in effect prohibits the use of an adaptive transmitter, we show, for the Rayleigh fading channel, that a decent key rate that outperforms existing schemes is obtained. This is due to the fact that collection of the channel state information and transmission of the reconciliation bits are performed concurrently rather than via time sharing.
Making Sense of the Metaphor: How Acupuncture Works Neurophysiologically

Abstract Dropping the veil of mystery surrounding acupuncture's effects exposes the compelling and vibrant inner workings of acupuncture based on anatomy and physiology. Shining the light on the mechanisms of acupuncture with a methodical, scientific, and evidence-based approach to equine acupuncture holds the promise of improving treatment consistency and effectiveness. Disentangling acupuncture actions from arcane notions of body function that originated millennia ago requires in-depth study of the nervous system and modern scientific evidence. Abundant information exists concerning the connections between acupuncture anatomy, nerve stimulation, and neuromodulation of the peripheral, central, and autonomic nervous systems. This body of evidence can assist equine practitioners and researchers in approaching acupuncture from a scientific, rather than a metaphorical, platform.
Jet and Laser‐Jet Electrochemical Micromachining of Nickel and Steel

Experimental results on jet and laser‐jet electrochemical micromachining of nickel and steel in neutral solutions of sodium chloride and sodium nitrate are reported. In the absence of a laser beam, a nitrate solution is better suited for micromachining at high current densities, since it yields high machining rates and relatively low overcutting. In the presence of a laser beam, however, nitrate solution is found to be unsuitable for micromachining, since oxygen evolution is the dominant anodic reaction even at high current densities. In chloride solution, on the other hand, metal dissolution reaction is independent of laser power, but the laser beam helps in focusing the applied current into the machining area thereby increasing the effective machining rate and precision.
Non-Malignant Drivers of Elevated C-Reactive Protein Levels Differ in Patients With and Without a History of Cancer

Purpose: Elevations in C-reactive protein (CRP) levels predict metastasis and mortality in a number of malignancies. However, the impact of non-malignant factors on CRP levels in patients with cancer remains unknown. To address this issue, we conducted an investigation of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP) cohort. Methods: NSHAP participants with a history of malignancy were included. The 222-participant cohort was subdivided by CRP levels into low-risk (CRP <3 mg/L) and high-risk (CRP ≥3 mg/L) groups. Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses examined the impact of variables spanning social factors, demographic characteristics, and past medical history on high-risk CRP levels. Results: Of the cohort, 42.3% exhibited high-risk CRP levels. These participants were more likely to be unmarried (p = 0.013), to be a racial/ethnic minority (p = 0.012), to not use HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin) medications (p = 0.032), and to be obese (p = 0.002). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, these variables were also significant predictors of high-risk CRP levels. For example, compared with participants who had a normal body mass index (BMI), obese participants were nearly 5 times more likely (odds ratio 5.725; 95% CI 1.848, 12.079; p = 0.001) to exhibit high-risk CRP levels. Conclusions: CRP remains an important prognostic biomarker in the management of known malignancies. However, patients with a known history of cancer can also exhibit elevated CRP levels due to non-malignant factors such as race and ethnicity, statin use, marital status, and BMI. Consequently, further studies are needed to assess the predictive potential of CRP levels for cancer prognostication in the face of these social and biologic variables before use of this biomarker is widely adopted in clinical practice.
Gender differences in health care use: Are male adolescents being seen? 25

Background: Adult males use health services less often than females; these gender differences likely begin in adolescence but are not well studied.
Method for trapping affinity chromatography of transcription factors using aldehyde-hydrazide coupling to agarose.

Abstract The use of a method of coupling DNA was investigated for trapping and purifying transcription factors. Using the GFP–C/EBP (CAAT/enhancer binding protein) fusion protein as a model, trapping gives higher purity and comparable yield to conventional affinity chromatography. The chemistry used is mild and was shown to have no detrimental effect on GFP fluorescence or GFP–C/EBP DNA binding. The method involves introducing a ribose nucleotide to the 3′ end of a DNA sequence. Reaction with mM NaIO4 (sodium metaperiodate) produces a dialdehyde of ribose that couples to hydrazide–agarose. The DNA is combined at nM concentration with a nuclear extract or other protein mixture, and DNA–protein complexes form. The complex is then coupled to hydrazide–agarose for trapping the DNA–protein complex and the protein eluted by increasing NaCl concentration. Using a different oligonucleotide with the proximal E-box sequence from the human telomerase promoter, USF-2 transcription factor was purified by trapping, again with higher purity than results from conventional affinity chromatography and similar yield. Other transcription factors binding E-boxes, including E2A, c-Myc, and Myo-D, were also purified, but myogenin and NFκB were not. Therefore, this approach proved to be valuable for both affinity chromatography and the trapping approach.
Numerical simulations of grass fires using a coupled atmosphere–fire model: Basic fire behavior and dependence on wind speed

[1] Numerical simulations using a fire model, FIRETEC, coupled to an atmospheric dynamics model, HIGRAD, are examined to investigate several fundamental aspects of fire behavior in grasslands, and specifically the dependence of this behavior on the ambient atmospheric winds and on the initial length of the fire line. The FIRETEC model is based on a multi-phase transport approach, and incorporates representations of the physical processes that govern wildfires, such as combustion and radiative and convective heat exchange. Results from the coupled model show that the forward spread of the simulated fires increases with increasing ambient wind speed, and the spread rates are consistent with those observed in field experiments of grass fires; however, the forward spread also depends significantly on the initial length of the fire line, and for a given ambient wind speed the spread rate for long (100 m) lines is greater than that for short (16 m) lines. The spread of the simulated fires in the lateral direction also depends on the ambient wind speed and the length of the fire line, and a possible explanation for this effect is given. For weak ambient winds, the shape of the fire perimeter is dramatically different from that seen with higher wind speeds. The shape of the fire perimeter is also shown to depend on the initial length of the fire line. These differences in fire behavior are attributed to the differences in the nature of the coupled atmosphere–fire interactions among these cases, and are described in terms of the complex interplay between radiative and convective heat transfer.