cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis of CPR-Associated Cardiovascular and Thoracic Injuries

Abstract Objective The incidence of thoracic injuries resulting from cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is not well characterized. We describe a case in which a CPR-associated atrial rupture was identified with ultrasound and successfully managed in the intensive care unit with a bedside thoracotomy and atrial repair. We then describe a systematic review with pooled data analysis of CPR-associated cardiovascular, pulmonary, pleural, and thoracic wall injuries. Data sources PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched to identify relevant published studies. Unpublished studies were identified by searching the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, Current Controlled Trials, and Google. Study selection Inclusion criteria for the pooled analysis were any clinical or autopsy study in which (a) patients underwent cardiopulmonary resuscitation, (b) chest compressions were administered either manually or with the assistance of active compression–decompression devices, and (c) autopsy or dedicated imaging assessments were conducted to identify complications. Exclusion criteria for the pooled analysis were pre-clinical studies, case reports and abstracts. Data extraction Nine-hundred twenty-eight potentially relevant references were identified. Twenty-seven references met inclusion criteria. Data synthesis A systematic review of the literature is provided with pooled data analysis. Conclusions The incidence of reported CPR-associated cardiovascular and thoracic wall injuries varies widely. CPR with active compression–decompression devices has a higher reported incidence of cardiopulmonary injuries. Bedside ultrasound may be a useful adjunct to assess and risk-stratify patients to identify serious or life-threatening CPR-associated injuries.
α(1,3)-Fucosyltransferases FUT4 and FUT7 Control Murine Susceptibility to Thrombosis

The α(1,3)-fucosyltransferases, types IV and VII (FUT4 and FUT7, respectively), are required for the synthesis of functional selectin-type leukocyte adhesion molecule ligands. The selectins and their ligands modulate leukocyte trafficking, and P-selectin and its ligand, P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1, can modulate hemostasis and thrombosis. Regulation of thrombosis by FUT4 and/or FUT7 activity was examined in mouse models of carotid artery thrombosis and collagen/epinephrine-induced thromboembolism. Mice lacking both FUT4 and FUT7 (Fut−/− mice) had a shorter time to occlusive thrombus formation in the injured carotid artery and a higher mortality due to collagen/epinephrine-induced pulmonary thromboemboli. Mice lacking P-selectin or P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 did not have a prothrombotic phenotype. Whole blood platelet aggregation was enhanced, and plasma fibrinogen content, clot weight, and clot strength were increased in Fut−/− mice, and in vitro clot lysis was reduced compared with wild type. Fut4−/−, but not Fut7−/−, mice had increased pulmonary thromboembolism-induced mortality and decreased thromboemboli dissolution in vivo. These data show that FUT4 and FUT7 activity regulates thrombosis in a P-selectin– and P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1–independent manner and suggest that FUT4 activity is important for thrombolysis.
Editorial: Reading, Responding and Recognition

What readers get from a journal article is some new knowledge or new point of view; much of that is gained by browsing rather than detailed study. This usually occurs just after the journal arrives on the reader’s desk. The browsing results in considerable cross-fertilization of ideas from various sections of our field of optical science and engineering.
The spectrum of titan in the far-infrared and microwave regions

The pressure-induced absorptions of gaseous nitrogen (N2) and methane (CH4) are computed on the basis of the collisional lineshape theory of Birnbaum and Cohen (1976). Laboratory data at 300 and 124 K for N2 and at 296 and 195 K for CH4 are used to determine the collisional time constants and their temperature dependence. The spectrum of Titan from the microwave to the far-infrared region (0.1-600/cm) is then modeled using these opacities and a temperature profile of Titan's atmosphere derived from the Voyager 1 radio occultation experiment. The model atmosphere is composed of N2 and CH4, their relative proportions being determined by the vapor pressure law of CH4. A model with gaseous opacity alone is ruled out by the far-infrared observations. An additional opacity, thought to be associated with a methane cloud, is confirmed. The effective temperature of Titan is estimated at 83.2 plus or minus 1.4 K.
The neutron electric dipole moment in left-right symmetric low energy supergravity

Abstract We compute the neutron electric dipole moment in low energy supergravity based on the gauge group SU(2) L × SU(2) R × U(1) B−L . We find the electric dipole moment d n ≲ 10 −25 e cm × ( CP violating phase) provided the left-right symmetry breaking scale ≳ 10 3 GeV.
Optimal (≤1 cm) but visible residual disease: is extensive debulking warranted?

Abstract Objectives To determine if extensive upper abdominal surgery (UAS) affected overall survival (OS) in patients left with ≤1cm but visible residual disease after undergoing primary cytoreductive surgery for ovarian cancer. Our secondary objective was to determine if leaving ≤1cm but visible residual throughout the small bowel (SB) conferred a worse prognosis. Methods All stage IIIB–IV ovarian cancer patients who had visible but ≤1cm residual disease at time of primary cytoreductive surgery from 2001 to 2010 were identified. Extensive UAS procedures and residual SB involvement were recorded. Results The 219 patients identified with ≤1cm but visible residual disease had a median OS of 51months. In this cohort, 127 had extensive UAS performed, and 87 had residual disease involving the SB. Univariate OS analysis was performed. There was no significant difference in OS between patients who did or did not have extensive UAS (45 vs. 52months, P =0.56), or between patients with or without residual SB disease (45 vs. 51months, P =0.84). Factors that were significantly associated with OS were age, ASA score, family history, and stage. Conclusions Patients cytoreduced to ≤1cm but visible residual disease who required UAS did not have a worse OS than those who did not require UAS. OS was similar if residual disease involved the SB or not. For ovarian cancer patients with disease not amenable to complete gross resection, extensive surgery should still be considered to achieve ≤1cm but visible residual disease status, including cases where the residual disease involves the SB.
Imputation of Missing Values When the Probability of Response Depends on the Variable Being Imputed

Abstract A method is developed for imputing missing values when the probability of response depends upon the variable being imputed. The missing data problem is viewed as one of parameter estimation in a regression model with stochastic censoring of the dependent variable. The prediction approach to imputation is used to solve this estimation problem. Wages and salaries are imputed to non-respondents in the Current Population Survey and the results are compared to the nonrespondents' IRS wage and salary data. The stochastic censoring approach gives improved results relative to a prediction approach that ignores the response mechanism.
Endoscopic treatment of Zenker diverticulum

Abstract Zenker diverticulum (ZD) is uncommon and is an outpouching of the mucosa through the Killian triangle. The basis of formation and symptomatology of ZD is believed to be because of the dysfunction of the cricopharyngeal muscle. Treatment is indicated when symptoms of dysphagia occur as progressive disease can lead to life-threatening aspiration. Treatment has evolved from surgical diverticulectomy and diverticulopexy with myotomy to myotomy alone using rigid or flexible endoscopes. Flexible endoscopic therapy is becoming more accepted, though no standardized approach exists to expose the septum (cricopharyngeus muscle) between the esophageal lumen and the ZD, the method(s) used to cut the muscle and periprocedural management. Adverse events of flexible endoscopic therapy include perforation, bleeding, and aspiration.
Predictors of wound complications following major amputation for critical limb ischemia

Objectives For patients with end-stage critical limb ischemia (CLI) who have already suffered over an extended period of time, a major amputation that is free of wound complications remains paramount. Utilizing data from the American College of Surgeons, National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP), the objective of this report was to determine critical factors leading to wound complications following major amputation. Methods ACS-NSQIP was used to identify patients ≥50 years, with CLI, and having an ipsilateral below-(BKA) or above-knee amputation (AKA). The primary outcome was wound occurrence (WO) defined by affirmative findings of superficial infection, deep infection, and/or wound disruption. The secondary outcome was 30-day mortality. Following univariate analyses, a multiple logistic regression was performed to identify predictive factors. Results Between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2008, 4250 patients fulfilled inclusion criteria (2309 BKAs and 1941 AKAs). WOs were 10.4% for BKAs and 7.2% for AKAs. For BKAs, increasing elevation in international normalized ratio (INR) predicted more WOs ( P = .008, odds ratio [OR] 1.5 for every integral increase in INR) as did age 50 to 59 compared with older patients ( P = .002, OR 1.9). For AKAs, being a current smoker predicted more WOs ( P = .0008, OR 1.8) as did an increasing body mass index (BMI) ( P = .02, OR 1.3 for every 10 kg/m 2 increase in BMI). Mortality was 7.6% for BKAs and 12% for AKAs. Complete functional dependence was most predictive of mortality following AKA ( P Conclusions Wound occurrences and mortality rates after major amputation for CLI continue to be a prevalent problem. Normalization of the INR prior to BKA should decrease WOs. Heightened awareness in higher risk patients with improved preventive measures, earlier disease recognition, better treatments, and increased education remain critical to improving outcomes in an already stressed patient cohort.
Changes in China : party, state, and society

Under Deng Xiaoping's dynamic leadership, the People's Republic of China has embarked on a highly significant and ambitious modernization drive resulting in various political, economic, and social changes. It is to the nature and extent of the reform program that the book addresses itself. There is general consensus among the authors that important changes are taking place in Deng's China that affect various segments of the society. Most authors seem to believe that although beset with problems and difficulties, current reforms and changes are likely to be continued and expanded in the years ahead
Characteristics of a high-temperature fibre-optic sensor probe

Abstract The thermal characteristics of a simple fibre-optic probe using alexandrite crystal are reported. Based on the fluorescence lifetime measurement, the probe is capable of operation over the region from −40 to 700°C with measurement resolution of 1°C and response time less than one second. Measures to extend the upper operating temperature of this alexandrite-based probe up to 1000°C are also discussed, including the prospect of cross-referencing of the fluorescence lifetime measurement with blackbody radiation.
Two new synonyms in Oriental Crabronidae (Hymenoptera)

Malaygorytes konishii Nemkov, 1999 (now Argogorytes konishii) from Western Malaysia is synonymized with Argogorytes matangensis (Turner, 1914) from Eastern Malaysia. Cerceris bantamensis van der Vecht, 1964 from Java is synonymized with Cerceris ferox F. Smith, 1856 (which also occurs in Sumatra and Malaysia). Recognition characters of the two species are discussed and illustrated.
A large area RICH photon detector for astrophysics

Abstract We have developed a detector of 1.5 × 1.4 m 2 area which measures individual photons with a spatial resolution of ∼1 cm. This device is in the focal plane of a 3 m long gas-filled Ring Imaging CHerenkov (RICH) instrument designed to make precision measurements of the velocity of high energy cosmic rays at the top of the atmosphere. In future applications this type of detector may be combined with a magnet spectrometer to make mass measurements of cosmic rays at high energy. The detector is a wire chamber filled with an ethane/TMAE mixture having fused silica windows. The signals are collected by 18 432 cathode pads of 1 cm 2 area connected to a VLSI electronic readout system. The quantum efficiency of the detector in the wavelength region of 180–200 nm is ∼12%. We shall discuss the design and operation of this detector.
Suppression of growth and reproduction of an exotic invasive tree by two introduced insects

The invasive tree Melaleuca quinquenervia experienced substantial declines in growth and reproduction in response primarily to chronic herbivory by the defoliating weevil Oxyops vitiosa. Herbivory was mediated on individual trees using regular applications of the insecticide acephate during a 2-year period to minimize populations of O. vitiosa and later the phloem-feeding psyllid, Boreioglycaspis melaleucae. Half of the trees also received drip irrigation to evaluate the influence of water on plant responses to herbivory. Insecticide-protected trees grew in height nearly six times faster and became 108% taller. In contrast, unprotected trees produced only 19% as much woody biomass, 13% as much leaf biomass, and 0.9% as much seed as protected trees. The mean (±SE) of total above ground biomass was 873.1 ± 191.4 g in unsprayed trees and 3856.2 ± 491.5 g in sprayed trees. Unprotected trees produced more stem tips per unit of height, resulting in a more bushy structure. Greater amounts of water increased leaf biomass, but all other plant variables were influenced most by herbivory. The seed-fueled invasive capacity of melaleuca will probably be reduced in areas favorable to the biological control agents, especially O. vitiosa.
On the solution of the least-squares local energy variance minimization equations

The convergence behavior of an iterative procedure proposed by Frost, Kellogg, and Curtis for solution of variance minimization equations is discussed. Use of particular sets of initial parameters in the iterative procedure is shown to yield rapid convergence.
Non-human pancreas as substrate for cytoplasmic islet cell antibodies

Abstract To investigate qualitative and quantitative differences in islet cell antibody (ICA) detection within and between species we evaluated 8 pancreatic substrates (2 human, 2 baboon, 2 macaque, 1 pig and 1 rat). All substrates were able to detect strongly positive sera (with ICA greater than 160 JDF units). Non-human primate pancreata showed a larger size and greater abundance of islets than human, pig or rat. Significant differences in end point titer were observed both within and between species. In comparing the two best pancreata (1 human and 1 macaque) in masked screening of 50 normal controls and 108 nondiabetic first degree relatives of type 1 diabetics, very similar results were obtained. We concluded that pancreatic substrates from a variety of species may be useful for detection of ICA. This study, however, underscores the need for between and within assay standardization of ICA such as those currently underway in the International Immunology of Diabetes Workshops and Proficiency Tests.
The response of optic tract glia during regeneration of the goldfish visual system. I. Biosynthetic activity within different glial populations after transection of retinal ganglion cell axons

Abstract We monitored biosynthetic activity of optic tract glia during regeneration of retinal ganglion cell axons in the goldfish and found that the greatest level of incorporated [ 3 H]thymidine and [ 3 H]leucine occurred in glia by 10–15 days after axotomy. During this period there was a marked increase in the number of oligodendroglia and multipotential glia near the site of injury with no change occurring in the astroglial population. Electron microscopic autoradiography showed that oligodendroglia and multipotential cells incorporated 5–7-fold more thymidine than did cells of intact control preparations. Though all glial cell types incorporated more [ 3 H]leucine during axonal regeneration, oligodendroglia and multipotential cells together accounted for more than 90% of measured radioactivity. In order to characterize glial-stimulating events specific to axonal regeneration, we produced axonal degeneration in the optic tract by removal of the retina. Optic tract glia during axonal degeneration incorporated less amino acid whrn compared to glia associated with regenerating axons. The degenerating optic tract also had less 2′,3′-cyclic nucleotide 3′-phosphohydrolase, an enzyme produced by oligodendroglia, than that found in the regenerating visual system. Our results suggest that in response to ganglion cell axotomy oligodendroglia and multipotential glia of the goldfish optic tract proliferate. Moreover, regenerating axons provide one type of stimulant for glial protein biosynthesis.
Botulinum neurotoxin for the treatment of migraine and other primary headache disorders

Botulinum toxin A (BoNT/A), a neurotoxin, is effective for treating a variety of disorders of involuntary muscle contraction, including cervical dystonia, blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm. It inhibits neurouscular signaling by blocking the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. The biological effects of the toxin are transient with normal neuronal signaling returning within approximately 3-6 months post injection. Recently, clinical findings suggest that BoNT/A may inhibit pain associated with migraine and other headache types. The mechanism by which this toxin inhibits pain is under investigation, recent findings suggest that it inhibits the release of neurotransmitters from nociceptive nerve terminals and in this way may exert an analgesic effect. A number of retrospective open-label chart reviews and three placebo-controlled double-blind trials have demonstrated that localized injections of BTX-A significantly reduce migraine frequency, severity, and migraine-associated disability. The majority of patients in these studies experienced no BoNT/A mediated side effects; however, a small percentage of patients did report transient minor side effects including blepharoptosis, dipolpia, and injection-site weakness. Currently there are several large-scale randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials in progress evaluating the efficacy, optimal dosing and side effect profile of this toxin as a novel treatment for migraine and other headache types. These studies may provide further evidence that BoNT/A is an effective option for the preventive treatment of migraine.
The role of glutamate 87 in the kinetic mechanism of Thermus thermophilus isopropylmalate dehydrogenase

The kinetic mechanism of the oxidative decarboxylation of 2R,3S-isopropylmalate by the NAD-dependent isopropylmalate dehydrogenase of Thermus thermophilus was investigated. Initial rate results typical of random or steady-state ordered sequential mechanisms are obtained for both the wild-type and two mutant enzymes (E87G and E87Q) regardless of whether natural or alternative substrates (2R-malate, 2R,3S-tartrate and/or NADP) are utilized. Initial rate data fail to converge on a rapid equilibrium-ordered pattern despite marked reductions in specificity (kcat/Km) caused by the mutations and alternative substrates. Although the inhibition studies alone might suggest an ordered kinetic mechanism with cofactor binding first, a detailed analysis reveals that the expected noncompetitive patterns appear uncompetitive because the dissociation constants from the ternary complexes are far smaller than those from the binary complexes. Equilibrium fluorescence studies both confirm the random binding of substrates and the kinetic estimates of the dissociation constants of the substrates from the binary complexes. The latter are not distributed markedly by the mutations at site 87. Mutations at site 87 do not affect the dissociation constants from the binary complexes, but do greatly increase the Michaelis constants, indicating that E87 helps stabilize the Michaelis complex of the wild-type enzyme. The available structural data, the patterns of the kinetics results, and the structure of a pseudo-Michaelis complex of the homologous isocitrate dehydrogenase of Escherichia coli suggest that E87 interacts with the nicotinamide ring.
Cell-permeable esters of diazeniumdiolate-based nitric oxide prodrugs.

Although O2-(2,4-dinitrophenyl) derivatives of diazeniumdiolate-based nitric oxide (NO) prodrugs bearing a free carboxylic acid group were activated by glutathione to release NO, these compounds were poor sources of intracellular NO and showed diminished antiproliferative activity against human leukemia HL-60 cells. The carboxylic acid esters of these prodrugs, however, were found to be superior sources of intracellular NO and potent inhibitors of HL-60 cell proliferation.
The adsorption of water and hydroxyl on Ni(lll)

Abstract The adsorption of water and hydroxyl on the (111) surface of Ni is treated using a many-electron embedding theory to describe the electronic bonding, modelling the lattice as a 28-atom, three layer cluster. Ab initio valence orbital configuration interaction (multiple parent) calculations carried out on a local surface region permit an accurate description of bonding at the surface. Molecular H 2 O adsorbed on the Ni(111) surface is found to prefer an atop atom site with an adsorption energy of 12 kcal/mol and a Ni-O equilibrium distance of 2.06 A. The equilibrium geometry of H 2 O is calculated to lie in a plane inclined by about 25° to the normal to the surface, but tilting the plane of the molecule from 0° to 50° or rotating the molecule about the Ni-O axis changes the energy only slightly. The OH radical binds strongly to the Ni(111) surface at both three-fold and bridge sites with adsorption energies of 87 kcal/mol and Ni-O bond lengths from 2.02–2.08 A. The OH axis of adsorbed OH is inclined about 10° from the surface normal at a three-fold site. Dissociation of H 2 O to OH and H adsorbed at nearby three-fold sites is exothermic, and for OH and H at a large distance of separation, the reaction H 2 O(ads) α OH(ads) + H(ads) is 52 kcal/mol exothermic. A high energy barrier is found at the initial stage of dissociation. The work function decreases by ∽0.5 eV on H 2 O adsorption and increases by ~0.2 eV on OH adsorption.
Preferential polar pathways in the cuticle and their relationship to ectodesmata

Ectodesmata-like structures, referred to here as mercurous or mercury precipitates (MP) and considered to be identical to precipitates observed after treatment of leaf tissue with Gilson solution for demonstration of ectodesmata, were demonstrated with cuticle enzymatically isolated from Allium bulb scales and leaves mounted on ascorbic acid-enriched agar or gelatin. The MP distribution patterns obtained with isolated cuticle, in the absence of a cell wall, were identical to those observed with living tissue. Since the distribution in either the presence or absence of the cell wall was similar, the distribution pattern must be determined by the cuticle and not by the cell wall. Disruption of the physical arrangement of epicuticular wax by brushing or removal with chloroform altered the distribution pattern and increased the frequency of MP. This was interpreted to mean that epicuticular wax plays an important role and also that the necessary reductant was not localized in specific structures in the cell wall. Based on this evidence, it appears that ectodesmata, as demonstrated with Gilson solution, are not specific cell-wall structures, whether plasmic or not plasmic. More likely, the MP observed in the cell wall reflect areas in the cuticle permeable to mercuric chloride and undoubtedly to other polar compounds. The presence of such pathways in the cuticle, long established as the prime barrier to penetration of polar compounds, has marked implications in foliar uptake and excretion.
Computed tomographic evaluation of femoral component rotation in total knee arthroplasty

Background: Optimal femoral component rotational alignment in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is crucial to establish a balanced knee reconstruction. Unbalanced knees can lead to instability, patellofemoral problems, persistent pain, stiffness, and generally poorer outcomes including early failure. Intraoperative techniques to achieve this optimal femoral component rotation include the use of the transepicondylar axis (TEA), the posterior-condylar-cut-parallel-to-the-tibial-cut (PCCPTC) technique and the anteroposterior axis technique (Whiteside's line). The purpose of this study was to compare the PCCPTC technique to the TEA technique using computed tomography (CT) scans to assess femoral component rotational alignment. Materials and Methods: This study used postoperative CT scans to compare the degree of femoral component rotation obtained with the use of PCCPTC technique and the TEA. The femoral component rotation of 30 TKA was measured on postoperative CT scans the angle of deviation between the two lines radiographic trans-epicondylar axis (rTEA) and femoral prosthesis posterior condylar line (FPPCL) was determined. This angle represented the rotation of the femoral component relative to the true rTEA. Results: The degree of rotation measured 2.67 ± 1.11 degrees in the PCCPTC group and 5.60 ± 1.64 degrees in the TEA group. Conclusion: The use of the TEA technique for determining rotational alignment in TKR results in excessive external rotation of the femoral component compared to the PCCPTC technique.
Additional Support for a Revised Gibbs Analysis

Gibbs-determined areas of >60 A2/molecule for many common surfactants cause rather small surface tension reductions when measured on a Langmuir film balance. This is inconsistent with an air/water interface being saturated throughout the steep linear decline in plots of surface tension versus ln [surfactant]. In support for a gradually populating interface in the linear region, we have found that sodium docosanyl sulfate lowers the surface tension by only 7 mN/m when compressed to 50 A2/molecule. When docosanyltrimethylmmonium bromide is compressed to 65 A2/molecule, the surface tension is lowered about 15 mN/m as compared to a 30−40 mN/m drop occurring within the range of typical Gibbs analysis. Saturation of the interface is often obscured by competitive micelle formation that levels the surface tension versus ln [surfactant] plot before saturation has a chance to do so.
Intrahepatic expression of hepatitis B core and surface antigens in chronic hepatitis delta-virus infection.

To evaluate the interference of hepatitis B virus (HBV) protein expression in the liver in chronic hepatitis delta-virus (HDV) infection, the intrahepatic expression of hepatitis B core and surface antigens (HBcAg and HBsAg) was studied in 36 HBsAg carriers who were seropositive for anti-HDV and in 36 anti-HDV negative controls [18 with serum hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg) and 18 with anti-HBe]. Of 18 HBeAg-positive patients with anti-HDV, 12 had HDV antigen (HDAg) in the liver. HBcAg was positive in 66.7% (8/12) of the HBeAg-positive patients with HDAg in the liver, and in 94.4% (17/18) of controls ( p =0.14). The distribution of HBcAg was exclusively cytoplasmic in 75% (6/8) of HDV-infected patients, but was mixed nuclear and cytoplasmic in 70.6% (12/17) of the controls. The prevalence and quantitative expression of HBcAg in the nucleus, but not in the cytoplasm, were significantly decreased in chronic HDV infection. HBsAg was positive in 91.6% (11/12) of HBeAg-positive patients with HDV infection and in all controls. Membranous expression of HBsAg was detected less frequently in HDV-infected patients than in controls (7/12 vs. 17/18, p =0.05), while the prevalence and quantitative expression of HBsAg in the cytoplasm showed little or no difference. HDAg was detected in all of the anti-HBe-positive patients with anti-HDV. Of these, none had HBcAg detectable in the liver, nor did controls, while HBsAg was detected exclusively in the cytoplasm in 94.4% (17/18). The prevalence and quantitative expression of HBsAg in the cytoplasm was not different for HDV-infected patients or controls. The results demonstrate: (1) decreased expression of nuclear HBcAg and membranous HBsAg in HBsAg carriers with chronic HDV infection, suggesting decreased levels of HBV replication and (2) that HDV has little or no effect on the cytoplasmic expression of HBsAg. The mechanisms regulating the expression of HBcAg and HBsAg in the liver in chronic HDV infection await further investigation.
Ontology in information studies: without, within, and withal knowledge management

– Ontology in information studies consists of antinomic conceptions, methodologies, and emphases in both application and philosophizing. A comprehensive understanding of ontology in information studies can be achieved by employing Slavoj Žižek's parallax view which holds that reality is not only best understood by articulating conflicting perspectives on a particular phenomenon, but that given phenomena are fundamentally constrained by incommensurable perspectives that must be acknowledged accordingly. The paper aims to discuss these issues. , – Ontology in information studies, including computational ontology development, is analyzed using critical information theory based on Heideggerian, poststructuralist, and anti-postmodern philosophy. The discussion is framed by Žižek's notion of the parallax Real. , – A complete understanding of ontology in information studies that does not reduce ontology to a totalizing theory or sequester notions of ontology to conflicting, unrelated discourses, necessarily accepts articulating the alterity between differing ontological views as the means by which one can best allude to what “ontology in information studies really is.” , – This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of radically different ontological perspectives on the nature of reality with respect to digital technology.
Supporting Work Effort of SSDI Beneficiaries: Implementation of Benefit Offset Pilot Demonstration

Few SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) beneficiaries in the United States ever increase earnings to the point of leaving SSDI, a source of growing concern both because of the costs of the program and because some beneficiaries can feel trapped in relative poverty by the need to retain SSDI benefits. One barrier to exit is the “cash cliff,” the abrupt loss of monthly benefits once earnings rise beyond the limits for eligibility. A four-state random assignment policy experiment was funded by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to explore implementation of a gradual reduction of cash benefits as earnings rise (i.e., the “benefit offset”). The project in Utah, one of the four states, found positive impacts of the policy on employment outcomes for certain groups of participants. More important, however, were the lessons learned in Utah for implementing policy initiatives with vulnerable populations such as those with disabilities. These lessons learned are in the areas of partnering among service...
Intramolecular electron transfer in cofacially pi-stacked fluorenes: evidence of tunneling.

The one-electron reduction of neutral π-stacked di- and trifluorenes (F-2 and F-3) in HMPA, where ion association is absent, results in the formation of anion radicals in which the odd electron res...
Employment After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis: A Qualitative Study of Ethnically Diverse Urban Women

Employment status is related to treatment recovery and quality of life in breast cancer survivors, yet little is known about return to work in immigrant and minority survivors. We conducted an exploratory qualitative study using ethnically cohesive focus groups of urban breast cancer survivors who were African-American, African-Caribbean, Chinese, Filipina, Latina, or non-Latina white. We audio- and video-recorded, transcribed, and thematically coded the focus group discussions and we analyzed the coded transcripts within and across ethnic groups. Seven major themes emerged related to the participants' work experiences after diagnosis: normalcy, acceptance, identity, appearance, privacy, lack of flexibility at work, and employer support. Maintaining a sense of normalcy was cited as a benefit of working by survivors in each group. Acceptance of the cancer diagnosis was most common in the Chinese group and in participants who had a family history of breast cancer; those who described this attitude were likely to continue working throughout the treatment period. Appearance was important among all but the Chinese group and was related to privacy, which many thought was necessary to derive the benefit of normalcy at work. Employer support included schedule flexibility, medical confidentiality, and help maintaining a normal work environment, which was particularly important to our study sample. Overall, we found few differences between the different ethnic groups in our study. These results have important implications for the provision of support services to and clinical management of employed women with breast cancer, as well as for further large-scale research in disparities and employment outcomes.
Photoreactivating Enzyme: A Light-Activated Repair Enzyme of Microbes and Man

Photoreactivating enzyme (PRE) is an enzyme that repairs DNA damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. The enzyme is found in a variety of species and body tissues. The implications of its activity are not fully understood. Recent research, however, is providing valuable insight into the molecular mechamisms of cellular radiation damage and repair.
The sensitive period for the acquisition of syntax in a second language.

This research tested the hypothesis that learners whose exposure to a second language begins before the age of 15 years achieve higher syntactic proficiency in the target language than adult learners. Sixty-seven immigrants who had come to the United States at various ages and who had resided in this country for various periods of time were tested for syntactic proficiency in English and were also administered a questionnaire to gather information concerning practice and instructional variables. Age at arrival was found to be a strong predictor of syntactic proficiency while other independent variables had very little effect. The results were interpreted as providing support for the hypothesis of an age related limitation on the ability to acquire full command of syntax in a second language.
Characteristic polynomials of Straffin digraphs

Abstract Let f be a continuous scalar function that permutes a finite subset of the real line. Straffin introduced an associated digraph to study these functions. For a cyclic permutation [so the finite subset is a periodic solution to the x i +1 = f ( x i )], we show that the coefficients of the characteristic polynomial of this digraph are odd. This is generalized to give the parity of the coefficients of the characteristic polynomial of the associated digraph of any permutation.
Low-temperature metallic alloying of copper and silver nanoparticles with gold nanoparticles through digestive ripening.

We describe a remarkable and simple alloying procedure in which noble metal intermetallic nanoparticles are produced in gram quantities via digestive ripening. This process involves mixing of separately prepared colloids of pure Au and pure Ag or Cu particles and then heating in the presence of an alkanethiol under reflux. The result after 1 h is alloy nanoparticles. Particles synthesized according to this procedure were characterized by UV−vis spectroscopy, EDX analysis, and high-resolution electron microscopy, the results of which confirm the formation of alloy particles. The particles of 5.6 ± 0.5 nm diameter for Au/Ag and 4.8 ± 1.0 nm diameter for Cu/Au undergo facile self-assembly to form 3-D superlattice ordering. It appears that during this digestive ripening process, the organic ligands display an extraordinary chemistry in which atom transfer between atomically pure copper, silver, and gold metal nanoparticles yields monodisperse alloy nanoparticles.
Neutrophilia and elevated serum cytokines are implicated in glycogen storage disease type Ia.

Glycogen storage disease type Ia (GSD-Ia) patients deficient in glucose-6-phosphatase-α manifest a disturbed glucose homeostasis. We hypothesized that disturbed glucose homeostasis might affect myeloid functions. Here, we show that GSD-Ia mice exhibit normal neutrophil activities but have elevated myeloid progenitor cells in the bone marrow and spleen. Interestingly, GSD-Ia mice exhibit a persistent increase in peripheral blood neutrophil counts along with elevated serum levels of granulocyte colony stimulating factor and cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant. Taken together, our results suggest that a loss of glucose homeostasis can compromise the immune system, resulting in neutrophilia. This may explain some of the unexpected clinical manifestations seen in GSD-Ia.
Acute passive cigarette smoke exposure and inhaled human insulin (Exubera) pharmacokinetics.

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT • Active cigarette smoking is associated with increased permeability of the pulmonary alveolar epithelium, resulting in faster absorption of inhaled drugs such as Exubera® (EXU). Absorption of EXU is increased approximately twice to four times as much in chronic smokers compared with nonsmokers. • The rate of clearance of radioaerosols such as technetium-labelled diethylenetriamine penta-acetic acid is decreased in response to passive smoke exposure. WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS • Passive smoke exposure causes a decrease in lung permeability, an effect opposite to that of active smoking. • Acute passive smoke exposure results in a decrease in EXU bioavailability and does not create a risk of hypoglycaemia. • These results are consistent with previous studies of radioaerosol lung clearance. AIMS Relative to nonsmokers, the bioavailability of inhaled human insulin (Exubera®; EXU) is markedly increased in chronic smokers. The pharmacokinetics of EXU following passive cigarette smoke exposure is unknown. METHODS In an open-label, crossover study, healthy nonsmoking volunteers received two treatments in randomized sequence separated by a 2-week wash-out: (i) EXU 3 mg with no passive smoke exposure and (ii) EXU 3 mg after passive smoke exposure (atmospheric nicotine levels 75–125 μg m−3) for 2 h. Blood samples were obtained at prespecified times up to 6 h after EXU administration. RESULTS Twenty-seven subjects completed both study periods. Mean plasma insulin AUC0−360 decreased by 17% [ratio 83%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 68.8, 99.5] and mean Cmax by 29% (ratio 71%, 95% CI 59.8, 83.1) after passive cigarette smoke exposure. The median (range) tmax was 60 min (20–120 min) and 75 min (20–360 min) in the EXU with no exposure and EXU passive exposure groups, respectively. EXU was well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS Unlike active chronic smoking, acute passive cigarette smoke exposure modestly decreases EXU bioavailability and thus should not increase hypoglycaemia risk. These results are consistent with those from published literature involving technetium-labelled diethylenetriamine penta-acetic acid and suggest that passive cigarette smoke exposure causes an acute decrease in lung permeability vs. active smoking, which causes an increase in permeability.
Treatment of human immunodeficiency virus-related lymphoma.

Abstract In newly diagnosed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), standard lymphoma regimens yield approximately a 50% complete response (CR) rate and an overall median survival of ≤9 months. Treatment results of relapsed patients are extremely poor. Regimens that appear more effective than standard therapy have usually been investigated only in patients with relatively high CD4 counts. An exception is a regimen consisting of a continuous 96-hour infusion of cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and etoposide (CDE). A 62% CR rate was achieved in 21 patients with a median CD4 count of 87/μL, and the median overall survival was 18 months. In another study of 25 patients, didanosine (ddl) was added to CDE and was shown to cause less myelosuppression without compromising efficacy. Other studies suggest that highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) can be combined with intensive chemotherapy regimens, with improved efficacy attributed to less frequent dosage reduction of chemotherapeutic agents. More recently, autologous and syngeneic bone marrow transplantation have been explored in a handful of patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related NHL with promising results. Data on whether widespread use of HAART decreases the incidence of HIV-positive NHL are conflicting. Some clues from recent studies suggest we are close to an answer: (1) protease inhibitors significantly improve survival of HIV-positive patients with NHL; (2) only one of eight recent cases of HIV-positive men with NHL received HAART compared with greater than 70% of HIV-positive men free of NHL; and (3) no prior HAART independently predicted for AIDS-related NHL development. On the other hand, Hodgkin's disease may be increasing in frequency in HIV-positive patients as the incidence of NHL declines. It is hypothesized that more effective reconstitution of the immune system with HAART may facilitate the inversion of these incidences. Future prospective studies will hopefully answer these questions.
Gastrointestinal complications after lung transplantation.

Background Gastrointestinal complications after lung transplantation remain a common yet poorly defined problem. In this study we examine our experience with gastrointestinal complications after lung transplantation. Methods Between August 1990 and June 2005, we retrospectively analyzed 208 patients who had undergone lung transplantation (single, 65% [137 of 212]; double, 34% [72 of 212]; heart–lung, 0.5% [2 of 212]; living related, 0.5% [1 of 212]). Four patients were retransplanted. Gastrointestinal complications were defined as any post-transplant diagnosis related to the gastrointestinal tract. Results Ninety of 208 (43%) transplant patients developed 113 gastrointestinal complications during follow-up (median 3.5 years [62 days to 10.0 years]). Biliary etiology was the most common (12% [25 of 208]), requiring cholecystectomy in 13 patients. Diarrheal syndromes occurred in 21 patients (10%) with 2 patients requiring laparotomies. Small bowel obstruction and/or gastroparesis were present in 17 (5%) and 12 (6%) patients, respectively. Fourteen patients required surgical lysis of adhesions for small bowel obstruction and 7 patients underwent gastric drainage procedures. Three patients had peptic ulcer disease with 2 patients requiring laparotomy for perforated duodenal ulcer. Ten patients developed gastrointestinal bleeding with 1 requiring a colectomy. Three patients presented with diverticulitis and 2 required colectomy. Three patients required laparotomy due to intraperitoneal leakage of gastric secretions after gastromy tube placement. Eleven (16%) deaths were directly related to gastrointestinal complications. Of those patients who required a laparotomy for indications other than cholelithiasis, 9 (35%) died within 8 weeks. Conclusions Gastrointestinal complications are common after lung transplantation and are associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Vigilance is required for early recognition and prompt treatment.
Geometric Ergodicity of Gibbs and Block Gibbs Samplers for a Hierarchical Random Effects Model

We consider fixed scan Gibbs and block Gibbs samplers for a Bayesian hierarchical random effects model with proper conjugate priors. A drift condition given in Meyn and Tweedie (1993, Chapter 15) is used to show that these Markov chains are geometrically ergodic. Showing that a Gibbs sampler is geometrically ergodic is the first step toward establishing central limit theorems, which can be used to approximate the error associated with Monte Carlo estimates of posterior quantities of interest. Thus, our results will be of practical interest to researchers using these Gibbs samplers for Bayesian data analysis.
Death Anxiety, Locus of Control and Life Satisfaction in the Elderly: Toward a Definition of Ego-Integrity:

In order to test Erikson's statements regarding ego integrity vs. despair, twenty men and twenty women from each of three residential settings (general community, public housing and nursing homes) ...
Non-Commutative Fuzzy Interval Logics with Approximation Semantics Based on the Checklist Paradigm and their Group Transformations

This paper continues investigation of systems of fuzzy interval logics based on the checklist paradigm semantics of Bandler and Kohout (1993). While the previous work was mainly concerned with the interval systems containing commutative AND and OR, this paper describes the system in which these connective types are non-commutative. While the commutative systems can be sufficiently characterized by an 8-element group of transformations, the non-commutative require the symmetric 16 element group S2times2times2times2
Olfaction, “olfiction,” and the schizophrenia-spectrum: An updated meta-analysis on identification and acuity

Abstract Olfaction deficits in individuals with schizophrenia are well documented. A meta-analysis conducted nearly a dozen years ago on the topic revealed a deficit of a full standard deviation in magnitude compared to nonpatient controls. Recent efforts have been attempted to determine whether deficits in olfactory identification and acuity reflect a vulnerability marker of schizophrenia-spectrum pathology. To address this issue, the present study conducted a meta-analysis of 16 studies of individuals with schizotypy, defined in terms of a) “ultra-high risk” status, b) having an affected biological family member, or c) having extreme scores on a schizotypy questionnaire. We also conducted an updated meta-analysis of 40 studies of olfactory functioning in schizophrenia. Consistent with the prior meta-analysis, patients with schizophrenia showed impairments in olfaction identification on a full standard deviation in magnitude (d = −.99). Individuals with schizotypy showed much more subtle (d = −.24) differences in olfaction, though the effect sizes were higher for studies examining individuals at “ultra-high risk” (d = −.67) versus studies examining individuals with psychometrically-defined (d = −.14) schizotypy. Differences in olfactory acuity, relative to their respective control groups, were small for both the schizophrenia (d = −.45) and schizotypy (d = −.38) studies but were similar in magnitude. The present findings argue against the notion that deficits in olfaction identification are a vulnerability marker of schizophrenia. Suggestions for future research are recommended.