cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The long-term outcomes of percutaneous therapy for renal artery fibromuscular dysplasia.

Background Percutaneous intervention for symptomatic renal artery fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) has replaced surgical therapy as first-line treatment. This study evaluates the factors that impact long-term anatomic and functional outcomes of endovascular therapy for symptomatic renal artery FMD. Methods Records of patients who underwent renal artery angioplasty for FMD between January 1990 and December 2007 were retrospectively analyzed. Indication for intervention was poorly controlled hypertension (diastolic blood pressure >90 mm Hg or systolic blood pressure >140 mm Hg, or both, taking >2 antihypertensive medications). Twenty-nine women (average age, 45 years [range, 18-80]; 86% with a history of hypertension 60% stenosis, and the remainder were nonfunctioning or absent. Creatinine was >1.5 mg/dL in 4%, 24% had hyperlipidemia, 17% had metabolic syndrome, and 4% were considered diabetic. Outcomes All interventions were successfully performed. Stent placement was required in 13% for technical failure and flow-limiting dissection. Seventy-three percent of these lesions were in the proximal renal artery, with the remainder in the middle renal artery. Technical success ( 9 cm, functional status of the contralateral kidney, a fasting blood glucose 50 mg/dL. Neither age Conclusions Percutaneous endovascular intervention for clinically symptomatic FMD in the renal arteries is technically successful, safe, and durable. Most patients have immediate clinical benefit, with continued long-term results out to 5 years. It appears that the presence of existing renal pathology and markers of prediabetic state are associated with recurrence of hypertensive symptoms.
Dual Functions of Streptococcus salivarius Urease

A urease-deficient derivative of Streptococcus salivarius 57.I was constructed by allelic exchange at the ureC locus. The wild-type strain was protected against acid killing through hydrolysis of physiologically relevant concentrations of urea, whereas the mutant was not. Also, S. salivarius could use urea as a source of nitrogen for growth exclusively through a urease-dependent pathway.
Acoustical Estimates of Subsurface Bubble Densities in the Open Ocean and Coastal Waters

High-frequency acoustic backscattering data are inverted to determine the dependence of subsurface bubble populations on wind speed, resonant bubble radius, surficial water temperature, and the proximity of land. Relationships of bubble densities with resonant radius and wind speed are found to compare favorably with the results of previous studies. No dependence on surface water temperature is apparent for temperatures ranging from 12 to 25° C. However, a strong dependence on the proximity to land masses is evident, with bubble densities in coastal waters being almost an order of magnitude greater than those in the open ocean at elevated wind speeds.
Maintenance desipramine for dysthymia: a placebo-controlled study.

Abstract Background : This study examines the efficacy of maintenance pharmacotherapy in dysthymia without concurrent major depression, i.e. ‘pure dysthymia’. No published data exist on this topic. Methods : Responders to a 10-week open trial of desipramine (DMI) whose therapeutic response persisted during a 4-month continuation phase were eligible to begin a 2-year placebo-controlled maintenance phase. We analyzed the subgroup with DSM-III-R pure dysthymia ( n =27) that entered maintenance. Time to recurrence during maintenance therapy was compared between the two treatment groups. Results : Six of 13 patients receiving placebo and none of 14 patients receiving ongoing DMI experienced a recurrence. Risk of recurrence was significantly greater for placebo patients. Five of six placebo recurrences occurred within the first 6 months of maintenance. Limitations : Larger replication studies are needed. Conclusions : Desipramine was efficacious as a maintenance treatment in patients with pure dysthymia who responded to 7 months of acute and continuation DMI.
The Concupiscent Performer: Joanna Frueh's "Art of Seduction"

Joanna Frueh has developed her own contemporary ars erotica, in which seduction is both a persistent motif and performance strategy. Frueh has embodied numerous seductive personas, mirroring her own iterative process of self-transformation. The investigation of Frueh's "art of seduction" uncovers its relevance for her live performances since 1979.
Cocaine-induced reinstatement during limited and extended drug access conditions in rhesus monkeys

Rationale The progression of addiction from controlled to compulsive drug use leads to serious adverse consequences, including a greater propensity to relapse to drug use after sustained periods of abstinence.
Unprovability of Consistency

We shall prove in this chapter that in a strong theory Г, some statements which naturally assert the consistency of Г cannot be proved within Г. This famous result of Godel shows that our ordinary first-order languages have a severe limitation as far as any project for a thorough-going check on the consistency of mathematics is concerned. Historically, the theorem caused a major change of emphasis in foundational research away from a preoccupation with consistency proofs.
Longitudinal study of ELISA seroreactivity to Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in infected cattle and culture-negative herd mates.

Two thousand nine hundred fifty-two serum samples, collected once or twice annually from 545 cows of known fecal culture status were tested for antibodies to Mycobacterium aviumsubsp. paratuberculosis using a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test. Overall, 13.5% of the sam- ples from 282 infected cows had positive ELISA results, but when tested multiple times, 38.3% of the cows had at least 1 serum sample with positive results. Among 263 fecal culture-negative cows, 98.1% of the serum samples had negative ELISA results, but when tested multiple times, 7.8% of the cows had at least 1 positive ELISA sample. Fecal culture was positive on a test before the first positive ELISA in 50 cows, ELISA was positive before fecal culture in 12 cows, and in 38 cows, both tests became positive at the same testing time. An additional 174 cows were positive on fecal culture and always negative on ELISA until culled. For cows that had ELISA sample:positive (S/P) ratios below the cutoff point, the change in S/P between sequential tests was evaluated to determine whether a rise in S/P could predict infection status. In this study, change in S/P was not a useful predictor of infection status in seronegative cows.
Acute effects of MDMA on autonomic cardiac activity and their relation to subjective prosocial and stimulant effects

MDMA is a stimulant with unique “pro-social” effects, the physiological and pharmacological mechanisms of which are unknown. Here we examine the relationship of measures of parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system activity to the pro-social effects of MDMA. Parasympathetic activity was measured using respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) and sympathetic activity using pre-ejection period (PEP). Over three sessions, 33 healthy volunteers received placebo, 0.75 mg/kg and 1.5 mg/kg MDMA under counterbalanced, double-blind conditions, while we measured subjective feelings, RSA, and PEP. RSA and PEP data were available for 26 and 21 participants, respectively. MDMA increased pro-social and stimulated feelings, decreased RSA and decreased PEP. At 1.5mg/kg, subjective pro-social effects correlated with stimulated feelings and PEP, but not RSA. This suggests sympathetic, rather than parasympathetic, effects relate to the pro-social effects of MDMA.
Prism coupling into polymer integrated optical waveguides with liquid superstrates

We have investigated the light coupling behavior of prism-coupled waveguides adjacent to liquid superstrates. A flow cell was used for delivering the liquid superstrates to the waveguide surface. The incoupled angles and outcoupled mode patterns were collected from polystyrene waveguides subjected to superstrates of air, water, and dimethylsulfoxide. Results showed that poor coupling and significant mode scrambling were observed when liquids were infused into the flow cell volume. The poor waveguiding characteristics were found to be caused by the presence of air in the prism coupling gaps. Poor coupling was eliminated for a water superstrate by ensuring that water also occupied the prism coupling gaps. The mode coupled into the water-coupled waveguide with a water superstrate was always the most intense mode in the outcoupled pattern. In this manner it was shown that a refractive index mismatch between the coupling gap and the superstrate will lead to a waveguide with measured coupling angles that are completely insensitive to changes in superstrate refractive index.
Interplay between mutagen sensitivity and epidemiological factors in modulatinglung cancer risk.

Few studies have assessed mutagen sensitivity and lung cancer (LC) risk associations in the context of multiple epidemiological risk factors. We evaluated mutagen sensitivity as a susceptibility marker and explored the interplay of the genetic marker and multiple epidemiologic risk factors in modulating LC risk. This largest case–control study included 977 newly diagnosed LC patients and 977 controls, matched by age, gender, ethnicity and smoking status. Cases exhibited significantly higher mutagen sensitivity than controls in bleomycin (0.76 vs. 0.62 breaks/cell, p < 0.001) and benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide (BDPE) assays (0.70 vs. 0.61 breaks/cell, p < 0.001). Mutagen sensitivity also exhibited dose-response relationship with LC risk in quartile analysis (p for trend <0.001). In smokers, history of emphysema, absence of hay fever history, LC in first-degree relatives, belomycin sensitivity, and high pack-year were identified to be the top 5 significant risk factors in a stepwise logistic regression model (odds ratios (ORs) of 2.69, 1.91, 1.84, 1.73 and 1.67, respectively). Analyses of joint effects of risk factors showed that compared to the reference group, subjects with no exposure to any of the aforementioned risk factors, the ORs for exposure to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more of the risk factors were 1.56, 2.39, 3.75, 6.74 and 17.39, respectively (p for trend <0.001). This study strongly supports mutagen sensitivity as a predisposition factor for LC and demonstrates the importance of assessing multiple risk factors to comprehensively assess LC risk. This new integrative approach should facilitate identification of high-risk subgroups and has important implications in LC prevention. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Effect of random and scatter fractions in variance reduction using time-of-flight information

The ability of differential time-of-flight (TOF) information to reduce the statistical noise variance in PET reconstructions has been known since the 1980's. Since then, the technology and applications of PET have evolved, warranting a reconsideration of the estimated improvements of TOF with respect to modern PET. For example, whereas 2D cardiology or neurology studies were once the only options, 3D clinical whole-body oncology imaging is becoming more common. The augmented sensitivity, change in object size and shape, as well as the accompanying changes in isotope and dose, result in different relative amounts of scattered, random, and true coincidences than were seen in the past. Thus in an analysis of the TOF gain for modern PET, it is useful to consider the separate effects of varying these fractions. We present a simulation study investigating the relative amount of TOF contrast-to-noise gain for a range of levels of scattered and random coincidences. We demonstrate that both increased scatter and increased randoms noticeably enhance the TOF gain, but that the higher randoms fraction introduces the most drastic improvement. These results are encouraging for modern PET, where there is a greater random/scatter fraction than in the PET of the 1980's.
Semiautomated Assay for the Simultaneous Determination of Propoxyphene Hydrochloride and Paramethasone Acetate in Coated Single Tablets

A semiautomated method for the simultaneous determination of propoxyphene hydrochloride and paramethasone acetate is described for coated tablets. A novel device for the removal and dissolution of tablet coatings is outlined. Solutions are sampled with an automatic sampler at the rate of 20/hr. and fed to two independent systems for analysis. A modified blue tetrazolium procedure is utilized for the determination of paramethasone acetate producing essentially complete color development within 5 min. at room temperature. Working concentrations of 12.5 mcg. paramethasone acetate per ml. can be assayed without resorting to range expansion. Analysis of propoxyphene hydrochloride is accomplished by the formation of a complex with bromocresol purple with subsequent extraction and color measurement in ethylene dichloride.
Visual interaction with overhauser curves and surfaces

The method of parabolic blending for curve and surface interpolation originally conceived by A. W. Overhauser is applied to the interactive free-form design of three dimensional objects. A significant advantage of the algorithm is the user-oriented control of surface shape that is achieved because one interactively manipulates only coordinates on the design surface, as opposed to parametric slopes or design points.The algorithm is demonstrated using an interactive 3D design system that executes in a dual-minicomputer refresh graphics environment without special 3D hardware. The system provides high level data generation commands and direct visual interaction with structured 3D data using a multi-purpose 3D cursor and shaping tool. Objects composed of points, lines, curves and surfaces of different forms may be interactively created and manipulated.
Induction of Cyclooxygenase-2 by Angiotensin II in Cultured Rat Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Abstract —Angiotensin II (Ang II) stimulates the release of prostaglandins (PGs) in various cells and tissues. Recently, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) emerged as a new key regulator for PG synthesis. In the present study, we investigated whether Ang II regulates COX-2 expression in cultured rat vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Ang II markedly increased the expression of COX-2 mRNA in a time- and dose-dependent manner. This effect was completely blocked by the Ang II type 1 receptor antagonist losartan but not by the Ang II type 2 receptor antagonist PD123319. The p42/44 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinase-1 inhibitor PD98059 and the p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580 significantly suppressed Ang II–induced COX-2 mRNA and protein expression. Ang II did not increase transcription of the COX-2 gene, as examined with a COX-2 promoter/luciferase chimeric plasmid construct. Instead, it suppressed the degradation of COX-2 mRNA. PD98059 and SB203580 markedly enhanced the decay of COX-2 mRNA induced by Ang II, implying that p42/44 and p38 MAPK activated by Ang II play a role in the regulation of COX-2 through stabilization of its mRNA. The COX-2–specific inhibitor NS-398 attenuated Ang II–stimulated DNA and protein synthesis, as well as PGE 2 production by VSMCs. These results suggest that Ang II regulates COX-2 expression and PG production and modulates cell proliferation through MAPK-mediated signaling pathways in rat VSMCs.
New findings in idiopathic arterial calcification of infancy detected by MDCT.

2Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas and Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Little Rock, AR 72202. rtery morphology and cardiac function were evaluated in an infant with idiopathic arterial calcification using MDCT. New morphologic findings identified included a thickened myocardium with a heterogeneous enhancement pattern consistent with a cardiomyopathy and a ring appearance caused by high-attenuation aortic wall calcification and lumen enhancement separated by low-attenuation thickened intima.
Complement-dependent release of immune complexes from the lymphocyte membrane.

Soluble antigen-antibody-complement complexes bound to mouse B lymphocytes are rapidly released from the cell membrane in the presence of normal serum from several mammalian species. The release is not the result of antigen-antibody dissociation or extensive degradation of the complexes. However, the released complexes have been altered because they will no longer bind to fresh lymphocytes. The release is not the result of lymphocyte damage mediated by complement. It is complement-dependent, and is generated either preferentially or exclusively via the alternate pathway, since it occurs in C4-deficient serum, is Mg++ but not Ca++ dependent, and requires C3 proactivator. C3 inactivator is not involved. The release activity of the serum, once generated, is unstable at 37°C. The release of complexes from the lymphocyte membrane by serum provides a convenient assay for the functioning of the alternate pathway in the mouse and in other species.
Biochemical and Phenotypic Abnormalities in Kynurenine Aminotransferase II-Deficient Mice

Kynurenic acid (KYNA) can act as an endogenous modulator of excitatory neurotransmission and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several neurological and psychiatric diseases. To evaluate its role in the brain, we disrupted the murine gene for kynurenine aminotransferase II (KAT II), the principal enzyme responsible for the synthesis of KYNA in the rat brain. mKat-2−/− mice showed no detectable KAT II mRNA or protein. Total brain KAT activity and KYNA levels were reduced during the first month but returned to normal levels thereafter. In contrast, liver KAT activity and KYNA levels in mKat-2−/− mice were decreased by >90% throughout life, though no hepatic abnormalities were observed histologically. KYNA-associated metabolites kynurenine, 3-hydroxykynurenine, and quinolinic acid were unchanged in the brain and liver of knockout mice. mKat-2−/− mice began to manifest hyperactivity and abnormal motor coordination at 2 weeks of age but were indistinguishable from wild type after 1 month of age. Golgi staining of cortical and striatal neurons revealed enlarged dendritic spines and a significant increase in spine density in 3-week-old mKat-2−/− mice but not in 2-month-old animals. Our results show that gene targeting of mKat-2 in mice leads to early and transitory decreases in brain KAT activity and KYNA levels with commensurate behavioral and neuropathological changes and suggest that compensatory changes or ontogenic expression of another isoform may account for the normalization of KYNA levels in the adult mKat-2−/− brain.
Design of a Portable Solid-State Hemoglobinometer

The most widely used and accepted method for hemoglobin determination is the cyanmethemoglobin method. However, laboratory spectrophotometers used with this procedure are not amenable to field use. We describe the design of a portable hemoglobinometer for use with the cyanmethemoglobin method. Solid-state light sources and detectors are used, and a simple meter readout of hemoglobin is produced. Results obtained with the portable hemoglobinometer are presented and compared with assays of the same blood by the usual methods.
Treatment of Platysmal Bands with Botulinum Toxin

The use of Botulinum toxins for the upper third of the face has been a well-ensconced facet of dermatologic surgery for over a decade. With greater experience with this toxin, additional areas have been treated with varying degrees of success. The middle third of the face as well as the lower thirds of the face may be injected by physicians with advanced technical abilities and knowledge of the relevant anatomy. Within the lower third of the face, the mentalis and platysma are easily treated with Botulinum toxins. Despite the fact that the platysma is not technically part of the lower third of the face, the muscle functions as a depressor of this region and its treatment greatly impacts the overall aesthetic of the entire face. Its treatment with Botulinum toxins is a relatively simple technique that can be mastered by those with experience in the upper third of the face and it can be extremely rewarding for both patient and physician. Newer modalities of radiofrequency, fractional resurfacing, and laser are able to change the texture and color of the neck. Combining these with injections of botulinum toxins offers the opportunity to dramatically improve an area that has traditionally been recalcitrant to rejuvenation.
Legislation in the Public Interest: Regulatory Capture and Campaign Reform

Liberals tend to favor regulations as expressions of the public will and the common good, and as a way to protect children, patients, mortgage holders, airline passengers, and many other consumers from abuse by unscrupulous actors in the private sector. Laissez-faire conservatives and libertarians tend to oppose regulations because they view them as an abusive use of the government's power and as harmful to the economic well-being of the nation.
Patterns and predictors of medication adherence to lipid-lowering therapy in children aged 8 to 20 years.

Background The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) for children at high risk of cardiovascular disease. However, the use of LLT in children is rare, and rates of nonadherence are unknown. Objective To identify patterns of use and predictors of nonadherence to LLT in children aged 8 to 20 years and the subgroup with dyslipidemia. Methods Commercially insured patients with a new dispensing for an LLT were included. Nonadherence was defined as a gap of >90 days between the last dispensing plus the medication days supply and the next dispensing or censoring. Descriptive statistics characterize the patterns of LLT adherence and class-specific drug switching. Kaplan–Meier curves and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models identified time to, and predictors of, nonadherence for the cohort and the dyslipidemia subgroup. Results Of the 8710 patients meeting inclusion criteria, 87% were nonadherent. Statins were the most common index prescription, and patients with an index statin dispensing were more likely to have multiple comorbidities and other prescription drug use. In multivariable analyses, nonadherence was inversely associated with dyslipidemia (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.61, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.57–0.65), chronic kidney disease (HR = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.54–0.88), higher outpatient (HR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.77–0.98), and inpatient (HR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.70–0.97) use. When limited to patients with dyslipidemia, nonadherence was related to age (HR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.07–1.38) and obesity (HR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.02–1.49). Conclusions Despite recommendations to begin continuous treatment early for high-risk children, nonadherence to LLT is frequent in this population, with modestly higher adherence in children with dyslipidemia.
Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma

A 31-year-old Black male presented with a 10-year history of a diffuse pruritic rash. He was initially diagnosed with pityriasis rosea and reported complete resolution of the eruption. However, a similar rash recurred eight years later. An alternative medicine specialist had prescribed an oral anti-fungal and later topical steroid without resolution.
Poor Growth, Thyroid Dysfunction and Vitamin D Deficiency Remain Prevalent Despite Reduced Intensity Chemotherapy for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Children and Young Adults

Myeloablative conditioning regimens for hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) are known to affect endocrine function, but little is known regarding reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) regimens. We retrospectively reviewed 114 children and young adults after single RIC HSCT. The analysis was grouped by age (<2 and ⩾2 years) and diagnosis (hemophagocytic lymphohistiocystosis/X-linked lymphoproliferative syndrome (HLH/XLP), other immune disorders, metabolic/genetic disorders). All groups displayed short stature by mean height-adjusted Z-score (HAZ) before (-1.29) and after HSCT (HAZ -1.38, P=0.47). After HSCT, younger children with HLH/XLP grew better (HAZ -3.41 vs -1.65, P=0.006), whereas older subjects had decline in growth (HAZ -0.8 vs -1.01, P=0.06). Those with steroid therapy beyond standard GVHD prophylaxis were shorter than those without (P 0.04). After HSCT, older subjects with HLH/XLP became thinner with a mean body mass index (BMI) Z-score of 1.20 vs 0.64, P=0.02, and similar to metabolic/genetic disorders (BMI-Z= 0.59 vs -0.99, P<0.001). BMI increased among younger children in these same groups. Thyroid function was abnormal in 24% (18/76). 25-OH vitamin D levels were insufficient in 73% (49/65), with low bone mineral density in 8 of 19 evaluable subjects. Despite RIC, children and young adults still have significant late endocrine effects. Further research is required to compare post-transplant endocrine effects after RIC to those after standard chemotherapy protocols.
Production of Progeny and Longevity of Eucelatoria Sp. Parasitic in Heliothis Species

The total production of progeny by a single female of a tachinid, Eucelatoria sp., when species of Heliothis were used as hosts ranged from 144 at 20°C to 198 at 30°C and declined at temperatures above 30°C. The mean number per female rose from 68.2 at 20°C to 112.9 at 30°C and then dropped to 52.4 at 32.2°C and to 2.0 at 35°C. Mean female longevity declined from 61.8 days at 20°C to 17.9 days at 35°C. Males were 7–10 days shorter lived over the same temperature range.
Animism and Green River persistent places: A dwelling perspective of the Shell Mound Archaic:

A nuanced understanding of the western Kentucky Green River Archaic requires reconciling the region’s rich archaeological record with the growing literature pertaining to how hunter-gatherers perce...
Thermal ecology and the structure of an assemblage of adult tiger beetle species ( Cicindelidae).

The thermal ecology of 13 tiger beetle species (Cicindela) was studied in the Sulphur Springs Valley of SE Arizona, USA. For each species, thoracic temperature (Tb) extremes for activity were determined in the laboratory and compared to Tb at which various behavioral activities occurred voluntarily in the field. Tb for coordinated walking showed few significant differences among species for lethal maximum (LTs) values (47.2-48.9°C) but considerable differences for mean minimum values (14.421.2°C). Field measurements showed significant differences among species for mean Tb while foraging. These means were correlated with laboratory measurements of mean minimum Tb for coordinated walking but not with LT50 maximum. The extreme difference in species mean minimum Tb for activity is best interpreted as a mechanism for temporal and spatial separation of species that minimizes predation and simultaneous use of limiting resources. The significance of the general similarity in species LT50 maximum thoracic temperature for activity is less obvious, but it is likely a convergent adaptation to thermally extreme habitats. It may have facilitated the species' historical dispersal abilities through thermally similar habitats over broad geographical areas and enhanced such factors as egg and larval development times.
Agreement between patient self-assessment and physician assessment of shoulder range of motion.

Background Shoulder outcome scores that include range of motion (ROM) and apprehension signs are limited by the need for direct involvement of the physician. Patient-reported outcome measures are patient centered and self-administered, and they can help physicians track the patient's progress between office visits and for long-term follow-up once the patient has been discharged. Methods Thirty consecutive patients completed a form before their 6-month follow-up after surgery on the labrum or capsule as a result of instability or pain related to instability. The form included bilateral ROM, apprehension, and instability episodes. The same parameters were measured by the physician during the visit. The patient's and physician's responses were compared. The primary outcome was the percentage agreement with exact and approximate agreement. Results Exact agreement was moderate for forward elevation at 56.6%; fair for abduction and external rotation at 90° at 24.5% and 34%, respectively; and poor for internal rotation at 90° and external rotation with the arm at the side at 2.6% and 12%, respectively. Approximate agreement within a range of positive or negative 20° range was very good for forward elevation (94%), abduction (92%), and external rotation at 90° (87%); moderate for external rotation with the arm at the side; and fair for internal rotation at 90°. There was 70% agreement regarding apprehension, 93% regarding subluxation events, and 100% regarding redislocation events. Conclusion Some measures of shoulder ROM showed a moderate to high level of agreement between patient-reported measurements and the physician's measurements. This method for short- and long-term follow-up could potentially replace routine clinic visits.
Analysis on epidemic situation of notifiable infectious diseases in Urumqi City in 2010

[Objective]To know the epidemic situation and epidemiological characteristics of notifiable infectious diseases in Urumqi,study its distribution law and trend,and provide the scientific basis for developing and perfecting the strategies and measures of infectious diseases control. [Methods]The epidemic data of infectious diseases were analyzed by descriptive epidemiology. [Results]A total of 16 506 cases of notifiable infectious diseases were reported in Urumqi in 2010,there were 23 kinds of diseases,and the reported incidence was 649.62/lakh.There were 91 death cases,the reported mortality was 3.58/lakh,and the fatality rate was 0.55%.The top 5 diseases in reported case number and incidence were hepatitis,hand foot and mouth disease,pulmonary tuberculosis,syphilis and mumps. [Conclusion]The medical institutions must strengthen the report and management of epidemic situation,reduce the missing reports and false alarm,which are the important ways to improve the report quality of notifiable infectious diseases and control diseases spread in time.
Modulation of endothelium-derived nitric oxide in canine femoral veins

Experiments were designed to determine whether nitric oxide was the mediator of increased endothelium-dependent relaxations in veins proximal to an arteriovenous fistula. A fistula was prepared between femoral arteries and veins in dogs. After 6 wk, veins proximal to the fistula were removed, cut into rings, and suspended for the measurement of isometric force in organ chambers. In some rings the endothelium was removed deliberately. NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA) caused contraction in three of six fistula-operated veins with and without endothelium. In rings contracted submaximally with prostaglandin F2 alpha, acetylcholine and the alpha 2-adrenergic agonist UK-14,304 cause e tylcholine and the alpha 2-adrenergic agonist UK-14,304 caused endothelium-dependent, concentration-dependent relaxations that were greater in fistula compared with sham-operated veins. These relaxations were reduced by L-NMMA. Calcium ionophore A23187 caused comparable endothelium-dependent relaxations in fistula- and sham-operated veins that were unaffected by L-NMMA. There were no differences in either calcium-dependent or -independent activity of nitric oxide synthase isolated from fistula- and sham-operated veins. Positive staining for nitric oxide synthase was present in both the endothelium and media of fistula-operated veins. These results indicate that nitric oxide mediates increased endothelium-dependent relaxations to acetylcholine and alpha 2-adrenergic agonists in fistula-operated veins. Therefore, chronic increases in blood flow and oxygen tension modify selectively receptor-coupled production of nitric oxide in endothelium and smooth muscle of veins.
Hole-burning spectroscopy as a probe of phototautomerization dynamics in phthalocyanine systems

Persistent spectral holes in the absorption lines of inhomogeneously broadened transitions in solids show promise as data elements in a frequency domain optical information storage system.1 In addition, low temperature spectral hole-burning is an important scientific probe of host-guest interactions, dephasing interactions, and site-selective photochemistry.2 Because of this, the hole-burning dynamics of specific host-defect combinations exhibiting photochemical or photophysical hole-burning are of significant interest in both the scientific and technological communities.
Maintenance Therapy for Myasthenia Gravis

Investigators at Boston Children's Hospital and at University of Florida, Gainesville, studied the comparative efficacy of plasmapheresis (PLEX) vs immunoglobulin (IVIG) as maintenance therapy in juvenile myasthenia gravis (MG).
Characterization of the Interactions between Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles and Polymethoxyflavones Using Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

Nanosized titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles are commonly present in TiO2 food additives (E171) and have been associated with potential adverse effects on health. However, little knowledge is available regarding the interactions between TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) and other food components, such as flavonoids. In this study, we aim to study the molecular interactions between TiO2 anatase NPs and three structurally closely related polymethoxyflavones (PMFs, flavonoids found in citrus fruits), namely, 3′,4′-didemethylnobiletin (DDN), 5-demethylnobiletin (5DN), and 5,3′,4′-tridemethylnobiletin (TDN), using ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectrometry and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). In the UV–vis absorption spectra, bathochromic effects were observed after DDN and TDN conjugated with TiO2 NPs. The results from SERS analysis clearly demonstrated that DDN and TDN could bind TiO2 NPs with the functional groups 3′-OH and 4′-OH on ring B and formed charge-transfer complexes. However, 5DN with functional g...
Talagrand’s Method for Proving Superconcentration

This chapter is devoted to the theory and applications of Talagrand’s method for proving superconcentration using hypercontractivity, a method that builds on a key insight of Kahn, Kalai and Linial. One of the new results proved here says that Talagrand’s method is “necessary and sufficient” for proving superconcentration of monotone functions. The application of Talagrand’s method to first-passage percolation, involving an original idea of Benjamini, Kalai and Schramm, is worked out. A second application to directed polymers is also worked out.
Cation Substitution Effect on a Molecular Analogue of Perovskite Manganites

A recently synthesized Mn-containing molecule Ce2IIICeIVMn8IIIO8(O2CPh)18(HO2CPh) (Ce3Mn8III) structurally resembles the repeating unit of a bulk perovskite manganite. This resemblance brings forth the intriguing possibility of studying physical properties and effects that appear in both the molecule and the far more complex bulk perovskites, for example, effects of cation substitution, which in bulk manganites may lead to phase transition from metallic-ferromagnetic to insulating-paramagnetic as well as the colossal magnetoresistance effect. We investigate divalent and trivalent cation substitution in Ce3Mn8III molecules and its effects on ground-state magnetic configuration using first-principles-based approaches. One MnIII ion changes its valence to MnIV after trivalent (including La, Gd) cation substitution, while four MnIII ions become MnIV upon divalent (including Ca, Sr, Ba, and Pb) cation substitutions, all accompanied by vanishing local Jahn–Teller distortion around MnIV. The valence state of MnI...
Management of Clubfoot Relapses With the Ponseti Method: Results of a Survey of the POSNA Members.

BACKGROUND Despite the high rate of initial success using the Ponseti method to manage idiopathic clubfoot deformity, relapse continues to be a problem. We surveyed the Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America (POSNA) members about their experience with relapsed deformity following the initial correction of clubfeet. METHODS We created a survey to focus on the management of clubfeet after initial correction of deformity. The survey included questions on postcorrective bracing, clinical findings used to identify relapse, the observed frequency of relapsed deformity, and how relapses are managed. The questionnaire was approved by the POSNA Evidence Based Committee and was sent electronically to all POSNA members. RESULTS We received responses from 321 members (26%). Of those, 94% were fellowship trained in pediatric orthopaedics. The Ponseti method was used by 98% of respondents. The Mitchell-Ponseti orthosis was most commonly used (51%), followed by the Denis-Browne brace (25%). The duration of bracing used varied among members with 23% recommending only 2 years, 33% recommending 3 years, and 34% recommending 4 years. A tight heel cord was felt to be the first sign of relapse by 59% of respondents, and dynamic supination by 30%. The rate of relapse was observed to be <10% by 22% of the respondents, 10% to 20% by 52%, and 20% to 40% by 25%. Manipulation and cast treatment alone (55%) and cast treatment with tenotomy (23%) were reported as the 2 most common initial treatment approaches for a relapsed deformity. Cast treatment to correct relapsed deformity before tibialis anterior tendon transfer was reported by 62% of respondents. Heel cord tenotomy (75%) and posterior capsular release (43%) were the 2 most common procedures used in addition to tibialis anterior tendon transfer for the treatment of clubfoot relapse. CONCLUSION This study highlights the wide variation with which clubfoot relapses are evaluated and treated among the POSNA membership with differences in the recommended duration of bracing, identification of relapses, and their management. These wide differences highlight the need for future research and educational programs to inform and standardize the management of clubfoot using the Ponseti Method. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Not applicable.
The Speak UP! Salon Project: Using Hair Stylists as Lay Health Educators About Unintended Pregnancy.

The Speak UP! Salon Project trained 126 hair stylists from 60 salons as lay health educators to increase knowledge about contraceptives and inform clients about financial support for long-acting re...
Agreement Among Reviewers

To the Editor: The purposes of Physical Therapy, as stated on the masthead of each issue, are to represent “the science and practice of the profession,” document “the state of the art of physical therapy,” and serve as the “archives of our professional knowledge.” Like most technical journals, Physical Therapy uses a process of peer review to help achieve these ends. In a discussion of the process, Ingelfinger commented that, “In what might be imagined as some sort of editorial heaven, the process of review would work perfectly. Two experts given the same manuscript would come up with identical evaluations.”1 Needless to say, comparisons of different experts' recommendations for the disposition of submitted manuscripts have revealed the experts' evaluations to be far from identical. A report cited by Zuckerman and Merton indicated that different referees agreed as to a paper's being acceptable or unacceptable in 75% of the cases.2…
The Audio Check: A Method for Improving Data Quality and Detecting Data Fabrication

Data quality and trust in the data collection process are critical concerns in survey research, particularly when surveyors are needed for reaching “diverse and inconvenient subject pools.” In resp...
Background Checks for all Gun Buyers and Gun Violence Restraining Orders: State Efforts to Keep Guns from High-Risk Persons:

There were more than 36,000 firearm-related deaths in the U.S. in 2015. Under federal law, a background check is required only for gun purchases from licensed dealers. Research suggests that some persons prohibited from owning a gun turn to private sellers, including those identified online, to attempt to obtain a firearm. State-level approaches to make it more difficult for high-risk persons to purchase or possess firearms include universal background check (UBC) and gun violence restraining order (GVRO) laws. UBC laws, on the books in 18 states as of the end of 2016, can reduce both homicide and suicide rates. After Colorado adopted a UBC law in 2013, the number of background checks conducted by private sellers for sales occurring at places other than gun shows steadily increased. GVRO laws give law enforcement and families the authority to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from an individual who presents a danger to himself or others during times of crisis, regardless of whether that person has been diagnosed with a mental illness. California enacted a GVRO law in 2014. Data are emerging to suggest the effectiveness of GVRO-type laws at averting suicides and providing an entryway to services.
Visually complex objects, ontology of space and political dynamics

Humans have been producing ‘art’ for at least 75,000 years. But the word ‘art’ is problematic when applied to archaeology. This paper explores the use of the concept of ‘visually complex object’ to designate a very specific kind of what is generally known as ‘art’. I argue for the application of this concept to the analysis of both the design of objects and their arrangement in cultural spaces, to gain new perspectives on social and political change in a prehistoric complex society. The focus here is on visually enchanting objects and changes in the ways that such objects were used and arranged in relation to larger changes in cultural circumstances. I contrast two visual orders in Iron Age Europe—the mid final millennium bc, when the visual order of ‘princely graves’ and the eye-fixing qualities of objects focused attention on the persons of individuals competing for leadership positions; and the second and final centuries bc, when a new visual order emerged to focus attention on large, publicly deployed objects that directed attention in open spaces to create collective experiences. The principles developed from these examples from late prehistoric Europe can be applied to changes in other complex societies worldwide.
Sparse Supervised Classification Methods Predict and Characterize Nanomaterial Exposures: Independent Markers of MWCNT Exposures.

Recent experimental evidence indicates significant pulmonary toxicity of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), such as inflammation, interstitial fibrosis, granuloma formation, and carcinogenicity...
Language, Thinking, Code: Interactive Essays with Twine (Abstract Only)

Bard College introduces all incoming students to computing through a coding module in its long established writing-intensive program, Language and Thinking (L&T). The L&T program is a mandatory three-week experience for first-year students that has taken place every year at the college since 1981. We present a new version of the computing module that focuses on introducing all first-year students to computer programming through the lens of literature and creative writing. We designed and implemented an interactive text-based game that taught the basics of computer programming using Twine. After playing the game, students attended an undergraduate-led workshop where they transformed paper-based writing pieces into interactive essays in Twine that execute code. We discuss the outcomes of the module and also evaluate the design of a coding experience designed to meet the needs of a writing-intensive course.
RELATIONSHIP OF PRESEASON MOVEMENT SCREENS WITH OVERUSE SYMPTOMS IN COLLEGIATE BASEBALL PLAYERS.

Background The shoulder mobility screen of the Functional Movement Screen™ (FMS™) and the upper extremity patterns of the Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA) assess global, multi-joint movement capabilities in the upper-extremities. Identifying which assessment can most accurately determine if baseball players are at an increased risk of experiencing overuse symptoms in the shoulder or elbow throughout a competitive season may reduce throwing-related injuries requiring medical attention. Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine if preseason FMS™ or SFMA scores were related to overuse severity scores in the shoulder or elbow during the preseason and competitive season. Study design Cohort study. Methods Sixty healthy, male, Division III collegiate baseball players (mean age = 20.1 ± 2.0 years) underwent preseason testing using the FMS™ shoulder mobility screen, and SFMA upper extremity patterns. Their scores were dichotomized into good and bad movement scores, and were compared to weekly questionnaires registering overuse symptoms and pain severity in the shoulder or elbow during the season. Results Poor FMS™ performance was associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing at least one overuse symptom during the preseason independent of grade and position (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 5.14, p = 0.03). Poor SFMA performance was associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing at least one overuse symptom during the preseason (adjusted OR = 6.10, p = 0.03) and during the competitive season (adjusted OR = 17.07, p = 0.03) independent of grade and position. Conclusion FMS™ shoulder mobility and SFMA upper extremity pattern performance were related to the likelihood of experiencing overuse symptoms during a baseball season. Participants with poor FMSTM performances may be more likely to experience at least one overuse symptom in their shoulder or elbow during the preseason. Additionally, individuals with poor SFMA performances may be more likely to report overuse symptoms during the preseason or competitive season. Level of evidence Level 3.
Metrology for stable isotope reference materials: 13 C/ 12 C and 18 O/ 16 O isotope ratio value assignment of pure carbon dioxide gas samples on the Vienna PeeDee Belemnite-CO 2 scale using dual-inlet mass spectrometry

The authors would like to call the reader’s attention to the fact that unfortunately the formula for the O17 correction parameter “a” is reported incorrectly as.
Shift Detection Properties of Moving Centerline Control Chart Schemes

In statistical process monitoring, violating the assumption of independent data leads to increased control chart false alarms and trends on both sides of the centerline. Autocorrelation requires modification to traditional control chart techniques. Th..
A Cultural Sociology Perspective on IT Occupational Culture

REQUIRED) Cultural studies have played an important role in information systems (IS) research for over 25 years. Past IS studies have primarily focused on two levels of analysis: national culture and organizational culture. The gap in our knowledge of culture is in the area of occupational culture of IT professionals. IT professionals have their own distinct occupational culture with their own set of shared values. The ‘strong program’ of cultural sociology will be used to examine and interpret the meaning of the core shared values of the IT occupation. The cultural framework of shared language, shared history, and shared context will be utilized in this research-in-progress.
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of β-Enaminoester Zinc Complexes

β-Enaminoester zinc complexes were synthesized by reacting ethyl 3-N-(butylimino)-2-butenoate (1) and ethyl 3-N-(hexylimino)-2-butenoate (2), with diethylzinc to afford the desired zinc bis(β-enaminoesterate) complexes 3 and 4. Complex 3, [C24H44N2O4Zn2], crystallized as a dimer in the orthorhombic space group, Pccn with cell parameters: a = 27.1033(7) b = 25.4714(5) c = 8.08614(16) A, α = β = γ = 90°, V = 5582.3(2) A3, Z = 8. Complex 4, [C28H54N2O4Zn2], crystallizes as a dimer in the triclinic P-1 space group with cell parameters: a = 7.3326(12) A, b = 8.3623(14) A, c = 13.887(2) A, α = 93.839(13)°, β = 91.691(13)°, γ = 112.147(15)°. V = 785.5(2) A3, Z = 1. The molecular structure of both zinc complexes is comprised of two β-enaminoester zinc ethyl complexes dimerizing through the formation of an out of plane Zn–C bond to an adjoining β-enaminoester zinc ethyl complex moiety. The reaction of β-enaminoester ligands with an equimolar amount of diethylzinc afforded four coordinate zinc alkyl dimers.