cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Phase I–II study of intratumor immunotherapy with BCG cell wall skeleton plus P3

A vaccine composed of BCG cell wall skeleton (CWS) and a trehalose dimycolate called P3, attached to microdroplets of mineral oil, was evaluated for activity and toxicity when injected into tumor nodules. A total of 99 nodules in 23 patients with metastatic melanoma and carcinoma of the breast were treated overa dose range of 150 μg, 300 μg, and 600 μg cell wall skeleton plus P3 per cm of nodule diameter. At least one injected nodule resolved in 11 of the 23 patients (48%), and 34% of all injected nodules resolved. Response correlated with nodule size of 1 cm or less, cutaneous location, and immunocompetence measured by PPD and recall skin testing. Toxicity became manifest in ulceration (61% of patients), fever (52%), and pain (26%).
QCD chiral Lagrangian on the lattice, strong coupling expansion, and Ward identities with Wilson fermions

We discuss a general strategy to compute the coefficients of the QCD chiral Lagrangian using lattice QCD with Wilson fermions. This procedure requires the introduction of a lattice chiral Lagrangian as an intermediate step in the calculation. The QCD chiral Lagrangian is then obtained by expanding the lattice effective theory in increasing powers of the lattice spacing and the external momenta. In order to investigate the general structure of the lattice effective Lagrangian, we perform an analytical calculation at the leading order of the strong-coupling and large-N expansion. We find that the explicit chiral symmetry breaking, introduced on the lattice by the Wilson term, is reproduced in the effective theory by a set of additional terms, which do not have direct correspondence in the continuum chiral Lagrangian. We argue that these terms can be conveniently reabsorbed by a suitable renormalization procedure. This is shown explicitly at the leading order of the strong-coupling and large-N expansion. In fact, we find that at this order, as is known to be the case in the opposite weak-coupling limit, the vector and axial Ward identities of the continuum theory are reproduced on the lattice provided that the bare quark mass and the lattice operatorsmore » are properly renormalized. {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}« less
Effect of antihistamine on pulmonary function of children with asthma

MANY CHILDREN with allergic rhinitis are denied the potential benefits of antihistamine therapy if they also have asthma. Their physicians have been taught that the antihistamines probably will exacerbate the asthma by a variety of mechanisms. ~ In the Physician's Desk Reference 2 (Medical Economics Company, Oradell, N J, 35th Edition, 1981) it is stated "... antihistamines should not be used to treat lower respiratory tract symptoms, including asthma." It is not stated, however, that they cannot be used for other allergic conditions if the asthma is under satisfactory control. Evidence accumulated in the past decade indicates that even this concern may not be clinically important. Several nonphenothiazine antihistamines do not adversely affect the peak flow rates of severely asthmatic children. 3 Oral administration of chlorpheniramine improves the peak flow rates and decreases the need for bronchodilators in children with mild asthma? Chlorpheniramine has been shown to improve pulmonary function and protect against histamine aerosol challenge? 7 Several studies have shown that ketotifen may be more effective than cromolyn sodium in the prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm. 8 These studies have been criticized for a variety of reasons: they were of short duration, they were conducted in the artificial setting of a pulmonary function laboratory, or they looked only at measures of large airway function. We therefore sought to extend these studies under field conditions by examining the effect of antihistamine drugs on measurements of pulmonary function in asthmatic children with symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis.
Intermolecular V(D)J Recombination

V(D)J recombination plays a prominent role in the generation of the antigen receptor repertoires of B and T lymphocytes. It is also likely to be involved in the formation of chromosomal translocations, some of which may result from interchromosomal recombination. We have investigated the potential of the V(D)J recombination machinery to perform intermolecular recombination between two plasmids, either unlinked or linked by catenation. In either case, recombination occurs in trans to yield signal and coding joints, and the results do not support the existence of a mechanistic block to the formation of coding joints in trans. Instead, we observe that linearization of the substrate, which does not alter the cis or trans status of the recombination signals, causes a specific and dramatic reduction in coding joint formation. This unexpected result leads us to propose a "release and recapture" model for V(D)J recombination in which coding ends are frequently released from the postcleavage complex and the efficiency of coding joint formation is influenced by the efficiency with which such ends are recaptured by the complex. This implies the existence of mechanisms, operative during recombination of chromosomal substrates, that act to prevent coding end release or to facilitate coding end recapture.
Optimization of the Raman signal in suspensions of nanoparticle aggregates

Nanoparticles enhance local fields to amplify surface enhanced Raman spectroscopic signals. Field enhancement also increases optical extinction, unexpectedly shifting the maximum Raman scattering away from resonance. We quantify the interplay to predict optimal enhancement.
Defective HLA class II expression in a regulatory mutant is partially complemented by activated ras oncogenes

The human B-cell line RJ2.2.5, derived by mutagenesis from a Burkitt lymphoma cell line and selected for loss of HLA class II antigen expression, was infected with recombinant retroviruses containing either the Harvey murine sarcoma virus oncogene v-Ha-ras or the human neuroblastoma homolog NRAS. Both activated ras genes partially complemented the regulatory defect in RJ2.2.5 and specifically increased the expression of the DR and DQ subsets of HLA class II genes. Blot-hybridization analysis and RNase mapping indicated that HLA-DQ alpha-chain mRNA in the infected cell lines was increased to a level at least 50% that of the parent B-cell line, Raji. The levels of HLA-DR and -DQ beta-chain RNA also were increased but to a lesser extent. In contrast, we detected no effect of ras on the quantities of other class II, class I, or invariant-chain mRNAs. Fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis with antibodies recognizing HLA-DR, -DQ, and class I antigens supported these observations. Enhancement of HLA class II gene expression by ras genes may have important implications for regulation of the immune system in response to transformation.
The dynamic response of pressure relief valves in vapor or gas service, part I: Mathematical model

Abstract In order to prevent unstable operation, or “chatter”, of a pressure relief the API guidelines recommend limiting the irreversible pressure loss in the inlet line to a pressure relief valve to no more than 3% of the valve set pressure. This criterion is based on steady-state operating conditions and a typical blow-down pressure for the valve of about 7% of the set pressure. However, the stability of the valve is also influenced by other factors such as the dynamic response of the valve disk to the unsteady pressures and forces exerted by the fluid on the disk. A model for the opening lift dynamic response of a pressure relief valve in gas/vapor service is presented here which accounts for all of these effects through a set of five coupled nonlinear algebraic/differential equations. These equations are solved by a numerical method that can be implemented on a spreadsheet to predict the position of the valve disk as a function of time for given valve characteristics, operating conditions, and installation parameters. The model incorporates the influence of the various parameters on the stable/unstable nature of the disk response. An example is presented for a typical valve that illustrates the various modes of stable and unstable dynamic response that can be predicted by the model under various conditions. Two additional papers will be forthcoming: Part II – Experimental Investigation and Part III – Analysis of Data and Comparison with Model Predictions.
Seeing REDD+ as a Project of Environmental Governance

Abstract In this paper, we argue that REDD+ is more than an impartial container for the various tools and actors concerned with addressing anthropogenic climate change. Instead, even as it takes shape, REDD+ is already functioning as a form of governance, a particular framing of the problem of climate change and its solutions that validates and legitimizes specific tools, actors and solutions while marginalizing others. This framing raises important questions about how we might critically evaluate REDD+ programs and their associated tools and stakeholders in a manner that encourages the most effective and equitable pursuit of its goals. We bring the issue of governance under REDD+ to the fore through a focus on the objects to be governed, the tools of governance, and the forms of environmental, economic and social knowledge that are considered legitimate under this framework. We then turn to the example of indigenous people's participation in REDD+ to illustrate how this framework attempts to bring about environmental governance by aligning the interests of a wide range of stakeholders in this process to bring about desired environmental outcomes. This consideration is critical for the implementation of REDD+, for as we illustrate, this alignment has thus far been incomplete, suggesting an emerging crisis of governance within REDD+ that will compromise future project and policy goals, and thus the well-being of many stakeholders.
A guide to writing ABO test items.

Credentialing examinations are frequently the primary method for determining a candidate’s competency before entering a profession or achieving certification. “Credentialed” implies that the certificate holder is sufficiently competent to ensure that the health, welfare, and safety of the public are protected. The testing process is an outcome assessment tool that measures areas of mandatory and essential knowledge. Because credentialing examinations are only as good as the quality of their testing items, these items must accurately reflect the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) essential for entry-level competency. The primary purpose of this article is to assist in writing relevant and reliable test items. A testing organization should precisely define both the educational objective of the examination and the information that the candidate should know. With regard to the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) and American Dental Association, these details can be found at www.Americanboardortho.com and www. ada.org.Tests should give the examining body enough information to assess all applicable areas of knowledge and have a sufficiently broad scope of questions to ensure reliability. No test should be designed until the examiners know how the results are to be used. The ABO uses the Phase II examination results to assess didactic and clinical knowledge as a part of the certification process. When the purpose of the test has been established, an appropriate format should be chosen. The multiplechoice format is objective, versatile, and useful for testing the knowledge of a large group of people in various subjects. Therefore, the ABO chose it for the Phase II examination.
Ground and defect states in a two band model of halogen-bridged transition metal linear chain complexes

Abstract We consider a two-band discrete tight-binding Peierls-Hubbard model for an isolated chain of a halogen-bridged, mixed-valence, transition metal linear chain complex (MX chain), which includes as parameters the difference between metal (M) and halogen (X) on site affinities, ϵM − ϵX = 20, a distance dependence βM,X of the on-site energies, the M-X hopping integral t and its distance dependence α, and an effective M-X spring K. We investigate: (1) ground states as functions of the model parameters; and (2) excitations — kinks, polarons, bipolarons, and photoexcitations — and their corresponding intra-gap absorption features.
Nitrogen and noble gases in a glass sample from the LEW88516 shergottite

A glass separate from the LEW88516 shergottite was analyzed by step-wise combustion for N and noble gases to determine whether it contained trapped gas similar in composition to the martian atmosphere-like component previously observed in lithology C of EETA79001. Excesses of Ar-40 and Xe-129 were in fact observed in this glass, although the amounts of these excesses less than or = to 20% of those seen in the latter meteorite, and are comparable to the amounts seen in whole-rock analyses of LEW88516. The isotopic composition of N in LEW88516 does not show an enrichment in delta N-15 commensurate with the amount of isotopically-heavy N expected from the noble gases excesses. One must posit some extreme assumptions about the nature of the N components present in LEW88516 in order to allow the presence of the trapped nitrogen component. Alternatively, the N has somehow been decoupled from the noble gases, and was either never present of has been lost.
An Interesting Rearrangement in the Cycloaddition of 1-(Methoxycarbony)Cyclopentadiene1

Abstract An attempted Diels-Alder reaction of 1-methoxycarbonylcyclopentadiene with cis-1,2-bis(phenylsulfonyl)ethylene gives a mixture of two sulfones, neither of which is the desired adduct. Instead a [1.5] sigmatropic rearrangement of the 1-methoxycarbonylcyclo-pentadiene precedes the 4 + 2 cycloaddition. Subsequent desulfonation also occurs in an unusual manner.
Bleeding associated with eptifibatide targeting higher risk patients with acute coronary syndromes: incidence and multivariate risk factors.

The objective of this study was to determine the safety of the glycoprotein Ilb/IIa receptor inhibitor eptifibatide in patients at high risk for adverse clinical outcomes and to determine risk factors for eptifibatide-associated bleeding. Consecutive patients (n =175) who presented with an acute coronary syndrome and who were at high risk for adverse clinical outcomes were prospectively observed for eptifibatide-associated bleeding, which was classified according to Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) and Global Use of Strategies to Open Occluded arteries (GUSTO) criteria. High risk was defined as unstable angina or non-Q-wave myocardial infarction with at least one of the following: left ventricular ejection fraction 2.5 ng/mL, and recurrent angina symptoms after initiation of conventional antianginal therapy Bleeding incidences in thepatients in this study were compared with those in the 4722 eptifibatide-treated patients in the Platelet Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa in Unstable Angina: Receptor Suppression Using Integrilin Therapy (PURSUIT) trial. Compared to PURSUIT patients, the population in this study was similar in age but had a higher proportion of females, African Americans, hypertension, diabetes, prior myocardial infarction, heart failure, and revascularization. Bleeding incidences in this study's patients were similar to or lower than those in the PURSUIT population: TIMI major 1.1% versus 10.8%, TIMI minor 12.6% versus 13.1%, GUSTO severe 1.7% versus 1.5%, GUSTO moderate 3.9% versus 11.3%, and GUSTO mild 19.7% versus 26.1%. Renal dysfunction was an independent risk factor for TIMI (odds ratio = 9.1 [95% CI= 1.6–52.5]) and GUSTO (odds ratio = 6.1 [95% CI = 1.2–30.0]) bleeding. In conclusion, despite being at higher risk for adverse outcomes, patients administered eptifibatide according to this study's institutional guidelines had comparable or lower bleeding rates than in the PURSUIT trial. Renal dysfunction is an independent risk factor for eptifibatide-induced bleeding.
African Americans and Decisions About Hospice Care: Implications for Health Message Design

Despite the widespread use and acceptance of hospice care in the United States, African Americans underuse these services when faced with life-limiting illnesses. Many scholars have identified the barriers that may limit hospice enrollment and have called for the development of outreach campaigns to educate African Americans about hospice services. The design and implementation of such campaigns requires that campaign planners understand the issues that are most relevant to African American patients and families in making decisions about hospice care. This study focused on identifying such issues through a qualitative meta-ethnography. Three broad third-order themes were identified as relevant to African Americans’ decisions regarding hospice care: necessary knowledge of hospice services, the role of family members, and religious/spiritual considerations. These themes are discussed in terms of designing culturally appropriate health messages to promote informed decisions about hospice enrollment.
Length measurements of RNA synthesized in vitro by Escherichia coli RNA polymerase

Abstract A method for visualizing in vitro synthesized RNA in extended form still attached to the DNA template is described. Bacteriophage T4 gene 32 product is attached to the RNA and after fixation with glutaraldehyde the transcription complexes are prepared for electron microscopy by the Kleinschmidt technique. Secondary structure caused by partial complementarity of the RNA can be stretched out by the attachment of bacteriophage T4 gene 32 protein as is shown in the case of bacteriophage R17 RNA. The possibilities of the method are exemplified using T7 as a template for Escherichia coli RNA polymerase. Data for the position of the promoter and the extent of transcription in the region of early T7 messenger RNA are confirmed. In addition, we have demonstrated the presence of a weak promotor at the right-hand end of the DNA; as in the early region, the direction of RNA synthesis is from left to right. Using SV40 viral DNA as a template, up to six RNA chains can be synthesized in the presence of rifampicin. After synthesis for 15 minutes at 37 °C, the length of the RNA chains shows that the polymerase has transcribed at least four times around the DNA circle.
Design of a silicon-based field-effect electro-optic modulator with enhanced light–charge interaction

A new design for an all-silicon field-effect optical modulator in a ring resonator geometry is proposed and modeled by means of finite-element method simulations. It is shown that the optimal relative placement of the ultrathin field-effect-generated charge layers and the optical mode in the strong-confinement waveguides leads to more than an order-of-magnitude enhancement in the light–charge interaction compared with the recent predictions in the literature. We show that such an enhancement could provide optical modulation with a >7?dB extinction-ratio using a voltage swing of only 2?V, thus making our design compatible with complementary metal-oxide semiconductor technology.
Clinical trials in spinal muscular atrophy

Purpose of review Spinal muscular atrophy is a neuromuscular disorder manifesting as weakness and hypotonia across a broad spectrum of severity. Mutations in the telomeric copy of the survival motor neuron gene (SMN1) cause the autosomal recessive form. Disease severity is modified by the number of centromeric copies of the gene (SMN2) and the quantity of survival motor neuron protein. This has given rise to a number of treatment strategies. Recent findings Histone deacetylase inhibitors appear to increase the expression of SMN2, with an increase in survival motor neuron protein in various cell types. Clinical trials have been performed with three histone deacetylase inhibitors which are already licensed in the USA. Phenylbutyrate showed promise in a mouse model and an open-label pilot study, but was not effective in a phase 2 trial. Valproate may enhance transcription and reverse SMN2 splicing pattern, and has induced promising motor-function improvement in patients. Hydroxyurea may enhance splice function and increase the number of nuclear 'gems', small nuclear organelles in which survival motor neuron protein concentrates. Summary Discoveries regarding the genetics and pathogenesis of spinal muscular atrophy have identified potential targets for pharmacotherapy, raising hope that better treatments will eventually be developed.
Limits on variations in protein backbone dynamics from precise measurements of scalar couplings.

3JHN,Hα, 3JHN,Cβ, and 3JHN,C‘ couplings, all related to the backbone torsion angle φ, were measured for the third immunoglobulin binding domain of protein G, or GB3. Measurements were carried out u...
A general framework for priority arguments

The degrees of unsolvability were introduced in the ground-breaking papers of Post [20] and Kleene and Post [7] as an attempt to measure the information content of sets of natural numbers. Kleene and Post were interested in the relative complexity of decision problems arising naturally in mathematics; in particular, they wished to know when a solution to one decision problem contained the information necessary to solve a second decision problem. As decision problems can be coded by sets of natural numbers, this question is equivalent to: Given a computer with access to an oracle which will answer membership questions about a set A , can a program (allowing questions to the oracle) be written which will correctly compute the answers to all membership questions about a set B ? If the answer is yes, then we say that B is Turing reducible to A and write B ≤ T A . We say that B ≡ T A if B ≤ T A and A ≤ T B . ≡ T is an equivalence relation, and ≤ T induces a partial ordering on the corresponding equivalence classes; the poset obtained in this way is called the degrees of unsolvability , and elements of this poset are called degrees . Post was particularly interested in computability from sets which are partially generated by a computer, namely, those for which the elements of the set can be enumerated by a computer.
Auditory evoked potentials and sex-related differences in brain development.

Abstract Auditory evoked potentials (AEPs) were obtained to probe tones which were delivered during the presentation of complex verbal and nonverbal auditory stimulation to 3-month-old infants. Significant sex-dependent AEP amplitude asymmetries were found. Females produced higher-amplitude responses from the left hemisphere and males produced higher-amplitude responses from the right hemisphere during both the verbal and nonverbal presentations. No significant AEP asymmetries were obtained in an independent group of infants that received only the probe tones. These findings are consistent with theories and behavioral data suggesting differences between males and females in the development of language and spatial functions.
Calculation Method for Quantifying Axial and Roll Stiffnesses of Rectangular Steel-Reinforced Elastomeric Bridge Bearing Pads

Accurate estimates of bearing stiffnesses are often necessary for bridge design and construction calculations. In the case of steel-reinforced elastomeric bearing pads, the compression stiffness or roll stiffness is sometimes difficult to estimate because of complex deformations of the elastomer. A method of numerical analysis for estimating the axial and roll stiffnesses of bearing pads is presented. To validate the axial calculation method, experimental compression tests were performed on pad specimens constructed in accordance with Florida design standards. A method for calculating roll stiffness is also presented in which the pad is modeled as a grillage of compression-only axial springs. The grillage method was partially derived from roll stiffness data measured in a separate experimental study. The grillage method was demonstrated to accurately capture both the nonlinear moment-rotation behavior caused by liftoff of the girder from the pad and the observed sensitivity of roll stiffness to initial co...
Bioactive glasses: Importance of structure and properties in bone regeneration

Abstract This review provides a brief background on the applications, mechanisms and genetics involved with use of bioactive glass to stimulate regeneration of bone. The emphasis is on the role of structural changes of the bioactive glasses, in particular Bioglass, which result in controlled release of osteostimulative ions. The review also summarizes the use of Raman spectroscopy, referred to hereto forward as bio-Raman spectroscopy, to obtain rapid, real time in vitro analysis of human cells in contact with bioactive glasses, and the osteostimulative dissolution ions that lead to osteogenesis. The bio-Raman studies support the results obtained from in vivo studies of bioactive glasses, as well as extensive cell and molecular biology studies, and thus offers an innovative means for rapid screening of new bioactive materials while reducing the need for animal testing.
Population, family and biochemical investigation of human adenylate kinase polymorphism.

VARIANTS of human adenylate kinase (AK) ATP : AMP phosphotransferase (E.C.2.7.4.3) have been characterized on horizontal starch-gel electrophoresis by Fildes and Harris1. Three autosomally inherited isozyme forms were named AK 1, AK 2–1, and AK 2. The heterozygous form, AK 2–1, occurred in approximately 10 per cent of a British population. This communication describes a vertical starch-gel electrophoretic technique for AK; substantiates the genetics of AK 1, AK 2–1 and AK 2; characterizes a previously undescribed variant of AK; reports on AK in populations of Caucasians of European origin, Negroes of the United States, West Africans and Lacandon Mayans; and introduces some biochemical properties of the enzyme.
The Interaction of Signal Transduction Pathways in FRTL5 Thyroid Follicular Cells: Studies with Stable Expression of β2-Adrenergic Receptors

Multiple signal transduction pathways internet in FRTL5 cells to promote thyroid follicular cell differentiated function and cell proliferation. In these cells, TSH is a tissuespecific mitogen that promotes DNA synthesis primarily through activation of adenylate cyclase. To further test the role of adenylate cyclase in regulating cell growth and differentiated function we have introduced into FRTL5 the human ∧-adrenergic receptor (BAR) complementary DNA and have studied the ability of isoproterenol, alone and in combination with insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), to stimulate cAMP accumulation, iodide transport, [3H]thymidine incorporation into DNA, and cell growth. Wild-type FRTL5 were infected with a PLJ retroviral construct containing the BAR in either a sense (FRTL BAR) or antisense (FRTL RBAR) orientation, and cell populations were selected on the basis of resistance to the antibiotic geneticin. FRTL BAR expressed approximately 1.3 × 105 high affinity binding sites per cell for the β2-specific lig...
Determination of the heat of formation of ortho-benzyne by ion cyclotron resonance spectroscopy.

Abstract Ion Cyclotron Resonance Spectroscopy has been employed to obtain a value for the heat of formation of ortho-benzyne of 118 ± 5 kcal mol−1.
HERPETIC WHITLOW WITH BACTERIAL ABSCESS

The herpetic whitlow should be treated nonoperatively. However, a difficult therapeutic dilemma occurs when a whitlow is seen with an established bacterial abscess. We report a case of an adult whose first herpetic whitlow was complicated by secondary periungual abscesses that progressed despite intravenous antimicrobial therapy. Surgical drainage of these periungual abscesses was successfully done in conjunction with intravenous acyclovir with no adverse effects.
Effect of water activity on thermal inactivation of salmonella in ground Turkey

Many factors, such as fat content and pH, are known to affect thermal inactivation of pathogens in meat products, and a few studies have suggested that the humidity of the cooking environment also affects thermal inactivation. However, the effect of process humidity has not been previously isolated from the effect of water activity on Salmonella inactivation. Therefore, the objective of this study was to directly test the effect of meat water activity on thermal inactivation of Salmonella. Ground turkey was dried to achieve water activities of 0.95 to 0.99, inoculated with an 8-strain Salmonella cocktail, and heated isothermally (60 °C) in a water bath. The rate of thermal inactivation of Salmonella decreased 64% (P < 0.01) when decreasing meat water activity from 0.99 to 0.95. Inclusion of water activity improved the accuracy of a 1st-order/Arrhenius-type inactivation model from 1.94 log 10 to 0.8 log 10 (colony-forming units [CFU] /g).
Fighting spam with statistics

Spam-unsolicited commercial e-mail-is a complex and growing problem, and threatens to derail the internet revolution. Joshua Goodman and David Heckerman of Microsoft Research describe some statistics-based methods for blocking spam, first by distinguishing it from wanted mail, and then by constructing puzzles they propose to use to challenge suspected spammers.
Is Routine Postoperative Chest X-Ray Necessary after Fluoroscopic-Guided Subclavian Central Venous Port Placement?

BACKGROUND: Two uncommon but serious complications after subclavian central venous port (SCVP) placement are pneumothorax (PNX) and malposition of the catheter. Chest x-rays (CXR) are commonly obtained after SCVP placement to identify these complications, but their use is controversial. STUDY DESIGN: We performed a retrospective review of SCVP placements to establish the incidence of PNX or catheter malposition identified exclusively by postprocedure CXR. RESULTS: Between July 1, 2001, and June 30, 2006, 205 patients underwent elective SCVP placement. Although 4 patients (2%) sustained a PNX, none was identified by routine postprocedure CXR. Postprocedure clinical symptoms (3 to 72 hours later) prompted repeat CXR, which identified the PNX. Five patients (2.4%) had catheter malposition recognized by intraoperative fluoroscopy and corrected intraoperatively. No malpositioned catheters were identified on postprocedure CXR. CONCLUSIONS: In our study, incidence of PNX after SCVP placement was low, and PNX was not detected by intraoperative fluoroscopy or by routine postprocedure CXR. We conclude that the practice of routine postprocedure CXR after SCVP placement is not necessary and should be replaced with diagnostic chest radiography only if symptoms develop.
Intralobar pulmonary sequestration with an aberrant artery arising from the celiac trunk

A 50-year-old woman presented with acute hemoptysis, dyspnea, and fatigue. Chest computed tomography (CT) showed an intralobar pulmonary sequestration of the right lower lobe with an aberrant artery arising from the celiac trunk (Fig. 1). A robotic right lower lobectomywas performed with an uneventful postoperative course (Fig. 2(A) and (B)). www.elsevier.com/locate/ejcts European Journal of Cardio-thoracic Surgery 39 (2011) 418
TRYING EVERYTHING IN A PRECALCULUS COURSE

ABSTRACT A special section of a precalculus course at NYU offered the opportunity to try a large number of teaching methods in addition to the traditional lecture. The methods are described, and the results are reported.
Interpretation of gamma-ray burst source count statistics

Ever since the discovery of gamma-ray bursts, the so-called log N-log S relation has been used for determination of their distances and distribution. This task has not been straightforward because of varying thresholds for the detection of bursts. Most of the current analyses of these data are couched in terms of ambiguous distributions, such as the distribution of Cp/Clim, the ratio of peak to threshold photon count rates, or the distribution of V/Vmax = (Cp/Clim) exp -3/2. It is shown that these distributions are not always a true reflection of the log N-log S relation. Some kind of deconvolution is required for obtaining the true log N-log S. Therefore, care is required in the interpretation of results of such analyses. A new method of analysis of these data is described, whereby the bivariate distribution of Cp and Clim is obtained directly from the data.
Robots en cirugía general: presente y futuro

Robotic surgery is an emerging technology. We began to use this technique in 2000, after it was approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Our preliminary experience was satisfactory. We report 4 years' experience of using this technique in our institution. Between August 2000 and December 2004, 399 patients underwent robotic surgery using the Da Vinci system. We performed 110 gastric bypass procedures, 30 Lap band, 59 Heller myotomies, 12 Nissen fundoplications, 6 epiphrenic diverticula, 18 total esophagectomies, 3 esophageal leiomyoma resections, 1 pyloroplasty, 2 gastrojejunostomies, 2 transduodenal sphincteroplasties, 10 adrenalectomies and 145 living-related donor nephrectomies. Operating times for fundoplications and Lap band were longer. After the learning curve, the operating times and morbidity of the remaining procedures were considerably reduced. Robot-assisted surgery allows advanced laparoscopic procedures to be performed with enhanced results given that it reduces the learning curve as measured by operating time and morbidity.
Stroke in coronary artery bypass graft surgery: an analysis of the CASS experience

Abstract An analysis of the Coronary Artery Surgery Registry (CASS) was performed to determine the occurrence of stroke after coronary artery bypass surgery in patients entered into the Coronary Artery Surgery Study Registry. Of the 10,098 patients having coronary artery bypass surgery at the Coronary Artery Surgery Study participating sites during the period July 1974 through May 1979, a total of 348 patients (or 3.4%) sustained a stroke during the first year after coronary bypass surgery. Fifty-nine strokes occurred on the day of surgery, and an additional 129 strokes occurred during hospitalization for coronary bypass surgery. Thus, 188 patients (1.9%) of the entire surgical group sustained a stroke during initial hospitalization for coronary artery bypass surgery. Logistic regression analysis was used to predict stroke on the day of surgery, during the hospitalization for surgery, and during the first year after surgery. The most powerful predictors of stroke on the day of coronary artery bypass surgery were: 1) older age ( n = n = 0.0001); and 3) longer duration of cardiopulmonary bypass ( n = 0.002). For those strokes occurring at least 1 day after coronary artery bypass but during the initial hospitalization, age and duration of cardiopulmonary bypass were the most powerful predictors of stroke. An analysis of predictors of stroke within 1 yr after hospital dismissal for initial coronary bypass surgery revealed that the most powerful predictor was a history of previous cerebrovascular disease ( n n
Multiple scattering effects on the remote sensing of the speed of sound in the ocean by Brillouin scattering

Monte Carlo calculations have been performed to investigate the effect of multiple scattering on the frequency spectra caused by Brillouin scattering in the ocean. It is shown that the use of the frequency spectra to determine the speed of sound profile and the hydrosol backscattering probability is stable under multiple scattering because the problem is limited to single backscattering events.
Conversion of Enriched Isotopes of Sulfur from SF6 to a Suitable Compound for Feed to the Electromagnetic Calutron Separators

Abstract Enriched isotopes of sulfur are becoming attractive for use as tracers in a variety of environmental and scientific experiments. Many stages of separation are needed, especially for 33S and 36S, which exist in low natural abundances. Small amounts of highly enriched sulfur isotopes can be provided by means of electromagnetic separation in the calutrons. However, the cost is prohibitively high for enrichment of large amounts needed by many experiments. Thus, a two-stage process is planned to obtain large amounts using gas centrifuges for preenrichment, followed by final enrichment in the calutrons. Sulfur hexafluoride is the most efficient form for processing sulfur in the centrifuges; however, SF6 is unacceptable as feed to the calutrons because it has excellent insulating properties for the high-voltage apparatus used to ionize the feed. An efficient process is needed to convert the preenriched sulfur isotopes from SF6 to a suitable form for calutron feed. Development of a conversion process is ...
Measuring Implicit Traits in Organizational Research: Development of an Indirect Measure of Employee Implicit Self-Concept

Values, attitudes, and goals are often automatically activated, yet organizational research has relied predominantly on techniques that measure these phenomena at explicit or conscious levels. In this study, the authors validated an indirect measure designed to assess employee self-concept at implicit levels. Because self-concept is believed to operate primarily at implicit levels, it was hypothesized that an indirect measure would be an effective predictor of work criteria. The criteria examined were task performance, citizenship and counterproductive behavior, and the quality of supervisor—subordinate relations. Consistent with predictions, the indirect measure—a word fragment completion task—contributed more to the prediction of criteria than the direct measure— self-report survey items with summated rating scales. The authors discuss the implications of these findings for the use of indirect measures in applied settings.
Multiple paternity, sperm storage, and reproductive success of female and male painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) in nature

When females receive no direct benefits from multiple matings, concurrent multiple paternity is often explained by indirect genetic benefits to offspring. To examine such possibilities, we analyzed genetic paternity for 1,272 hatchlings, representing 227 clutches, from a nesting population of painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) on the Mississippi River. Goals were to quantify the incidence and distribution of concurrent multiple paternity across clutches, examine temporal patterns of sperm storage by females, and deduce the extent to which indirect benefits result from polyandrous female behaviors. Blood samples from adult males also allowed us to genetically identify the sires of surveyed clutches and to assess phenotypic variation associated with male fitness. From the genetic data, female and male reproductive success were deduced and then interpreted together with field data to evaluate possible effects of female mating behaviors and sire identity on offspring fitness. We document that more than 30% of the clutches were likely fathered by multiple males, and that presence of multiple paternity was positively correlated with clutch size. Furthermore, the data indicate that the second male to mate typically had high paternity precedence over the first.
THE CAUSE OF ABNORMAL RETENTION OF INGESTED WATER IN ADRENALECTOMIZED RATS

IT IS WELL, RECOGNIZED that there is a failure of normal diuresis after the ingestion of large amounts of water in adrenalectomized animals as well as in Addisonian patients. As a result of the report of Robinson, Power and Kepler (1941), the “water test” has become well established as a useful laboratory adjunct in the diagnosis of Addison's disease. The mechanism of the failure of diuresis in the presence of adrenal insufficiency has not been extensively studied. One might be inclined to localize the defect in the gastro-intestinal tract inasmuch as intestinal absorption is known to be impaired in the adrenalectomized animal. That the unexcreted water is retained chiefly in the gut would seem unlikely, however, for it has been shown that the retention is accompanied by signs of water intoxication (Rigler, 1935; Swingle et al., 1937; Gaunt et al., 1937). It would appear, therefore, that excess water actually reaches the tissues.
The Valgus Stress Radiograph Does Not Determine the Full Extent of Correction of Deformity Prior to Medial Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty

Routine preoperative stress radiographs have been advocated, in part, to determine "full correctability" of deformities before proceeding with unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) despite limited data supporting their utility. Fifty consecutive patients undergoing medial UKA with robotic navigation were studied. In 20° of flexion, significantly greater correctability was achieved after removal of osteophytes by an additional 1.8°, with a mean corrected alignment of 2.5° varus. Seventy-four percent of knees were not correctable to neutral alignment or more. In conclusion, preoperative stress radiographs have overstated value in patients undergoing medial UKA since the full extent of correctability of varus deformity cannot be determined until after removal of osteophytes and since most deformities are not fully correctable to neutral in UKA.
Integration of wireless sensor networks, wireless local area networks and the Internet

Future wireless networks are envisioned to be pervasive and ubiquitous. The integration of wireless sensor networks with wireless local area networks and the Internet is an important issue of future wireless networks. This paper has identified three challenges in the integration of wireless sensor networks with wireless local area networks and the Internet: (i) reliable communication issue among sensors, actuators, and applications under the energy-conservation constraints, (ii) time-synchronization issue, and (iii) system architecture issue. Solutions for those challenges are presented and a resulting integrated system has been illustrated.
An orthogonal correlation algorithm for ghost reduction in MRI

Ghosting in MRI due to modulation of k-space data can be caused by motion of the subject or characteristics of the sequence. A general solution for 2DFT MRI that reduces ghosting without causal modeling is presented. Separate image data sets are acquired in which the phase and frequency directions are swapped. In these two data sets, the image signal is correlated, whereas the ghost signals are not. By taking a correlation of these two data sets, an image with greatly reduced ghosting is obtained. The reduction is shown to depend both on the correct signal intensity of the image, as well as the ghost intensity in the ghosted region. The reduction approaches 100% in regions of low image signal, and is more moderate in regions of higher image signal. The process was applied to conventional spin-echo, fast-spin-echo, and gradient echo imaging of volunteers and a phantom. Results of a reader study of the volunteer images reflected a significant overall reduction of ghosting artifacts in all volunteer experiments.
Orbital charge distributions for the TCNQ and TTF molecules

The molecular orbitals for TCNQ and TTF have been determined by the self-consistent statistical-exchange multiple-scattering method using overlapping atomic-sphere models. These have been used to construct contour maps for the electronic charge distributions for all the occupied valence levels of the TCNQ and TTF molecules, as well as for some of the low-lying unoccupied levels of TCNQ and TTF/sup +/. Many interesting features of the electronic structure of the TCNQ and TTF molecules are revealed by these contour maps.
Implicit–Explicit Relations:

Mental process and mental experience are not the same thing. The former is the operation of the mind; the latter is the subjective life that emerges from that operation. In social evaluation, implicit and explicit attitudes express this distinction. Although it is clear that they are not the same, how they differ is not. Across content domains, implicit and explicit attitude measures show substantial variability in the strength of correspondence, ranging from near zero to strongly positive. Variation in controllability, intentionality, awareness, or efficiency is thought to differentiate implicit and explicit attitudes. Dual-process theories and empirical evidence for moderating influences of implicit–explicit attitude relations provide a framework for comprehending relations between the operation and the experience of the mind.
Chlorosulfonic acid in the synthesis of DDT and its p-halogen analogues

The chlorosulfonic acid method of preparing DDT is outlined, its general application discussed, and the compounds which were prepared are described.
Appraising the value of genomic association studies

Approaches to identify genetic determinants of disease susceptibility have evolved considerably in the past two decades. Pedigree-based linkage analysis and positional cloning strategies for finding genes responsible for Mendelian disorders caused by defects in single genes (monogenic) have now
Reattachment of Fractured Tooth Fragment with Fiber Post: A Case Series with 1-Year Followup

Coronal fractures of the anterior teeth are common sequelae of dental trauma. In case of complex fractures, where the fractured segment is available and there is close approximation of the segment to the remaining tooth, root canal treatment followed by reattachment of the fractured segment with fiber post reinforcement is a feasible option. The procedure is simple and economic and needs less chair-side time as compared to many conventional methods. In addition, the procedure provides good and long-lasting esthetics, because the original morphology, color, and surface texture are maintained. This paper reports three cases of complex coronal tooth fracture successfully managed using tooth fragment reattachment.
Architecting a course for engineering design, critical inquiry, and creativity

The paper describes an experimental architecture for "ECE 300:Intermediate design," a required junior- and senior-level course for all branches of engineering within the college of engineering and applied sciences, at ASU. ECE 300 is designated a "L1" course whose central objective is to induce critical inquiry. The course has been found to be highly successful, the evidence being the exceptional quality of the final projects, most of which are potentially patentable, unique and innovative answers to real-world design challenges in midterm and final exams, and the undeniably strong feelings of accomplishment reported by the students through anonymous feedback.
Intracerebroventricular Administration of Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antisense Oligonucleotides Attenuates Salt Appetite in the Rat

The anterior ventral third ventricle (AV3V) region of the brain contains high concentrations of mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) and glucocorticoid receptors (GR) that are important in the maintenance of body fluid and electrolyte balance as well as other physiological processes. Daily intracerebroventricular pulse injections of MR antisense oligonucleotides significantly suppressed deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) induced salt appetite in a dose-related manner. Similar administration of GR antisense or scrambled/sense oligonucleotide into the third ventricle failed to inhibit salt appetite. Salt appetite aroused after adrenalectomy was not suppressed by MR antisense oligonucleotide treatments but was suppressed by an antisense oligonucleotide directed against the angiotensin II ATI receptor subtype. Receptor binding analysis demonstrated that MR and GR oligonucleotide treatments each reduced their respective receptor subtypes. Finally, although GR antisense oligonucleotide treatment was ineffective in ...