cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Variations among US hospitals in counseling practices regarding prematurely born infants.

We studied several counselor-independent elements of prenatal counseling regarding prematurely born infants. Elements studied include: indications to offer counseling, clinical settings in which counseling is offered, personnel assigned to counsel, availability of tools to assist counseling and post-counseling documentation requirements. As the study aimed to explore system-based practices and not counselor-based practices, we surveyed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit medical directors. Responses were received from 352 hospitals (53%) in 47 states. Analysis was based on responses from the 337 hospitals that routinely counseled women anticipating a premature birth. In 299 (∼90%) hospitals, counseling was primarily performed by neonatal professionals. Premature labor was the most common indication to offer counseling; however, in 54 hospitals most counseling was offered before labor and based on maternal risk factors for preterm delivery. In nearly all (99.7%) hospitals information was provided verbally and face-to-face; a third of the hospitals also provided written information. For non-English-speaking Hispanic patients, 208 (62%) of the hospitals had certified hospital-based Spanish interpreters. Five (1%) hospitals provided specialized training to the designated prenatal counselors. The upper gestational age eligible for counseling at all 337 hospitals included 33 weeks; in 134 hospitals, gestational age of <23 weeks was not eligible for counseling. Antenatal parental counseling for premature delivery is a widely practiced intervention with substantial system-based variability in execution. Interventions and strategies known to improve overall counseling effectiveness are not commonly utilized. We speculate that guidelines and tool-kits supported by Pediatric and Obstetric professional organizations may help improve system-based practices.
Procedures for identifying S-allele genotypes of Brassica.

Procedures are described for efficient selection of: (1) homozygous and heterozygous S-allele genotypes; (2) homozygous inbreds with the strong self- and sib-incompatibility required for effective seed production of single-cross F1 hybrids; (3) heterozygous genotypes with the high self- and sib-incompatibility required for effective seed production of 3- and 4-way hybrids. From reciprocal crosses between two first generation inbred (I1) plants there are three potential results: both crosses are incompatible; one is incompatible and the other compatible; and both are compatible. Incompatibility of both crosses is useful information only when combined with data from other reciprocal crosses. Each compatible cross, depending on whether its reciprocal is incompatible or compatible, dictates alternative reasoning and additional reciprocal crosses for efficiently and simultaneously identifying: (A) the S-allele genotype of all individual I1 plants, and (B) the expressions of dominance or codominance in pollen and stigma (sexual organs) of an S-allele heterozygous genotype. Reciprocal crosses provide the only efficient means of identifying S-allele genotypes and also the sexual-organ x S-allele-interaction types. Fluorescent microscope assay of pollen tube penetration into the style facilitates quantitation within 24–48 hours of incompatibility and compatibility of the reciprocal crosses. A procedure for quantitating the reciprocal difference is described that maximizes informational content of the data about interactions between S alleles in pollen and stigma of the S-allele-heterozygous genotype. Use of the non-inbred Io generation parent as a ‘known’ heterozygous S-allele genotype in crosses with its first generation selfed (I1) progeny usually reduces at least 7 fold the effort required for achieving objectives 1, 2, and 3, compared to the method of making reciprocal crosses only among I1 plants. Identifying the heterozygous and both homozygous S-allele genotypes during the I1 generation facilitates, during subsequent inbred generations, strong selection for or against modifier genes that influence the intensity of self- and sib-incompatibility. Selection for strong self and sib incompatibility can be effective for both homozygous inbreds and also for the S-allele heterozygote, thus facilitating production of single-cross F1 hybrids and also of 3-and 4-way hybrids.
Computationally efficient finite element evaluation of natural patellofemoral mechanics

Finite element methods have been applied to evaluate in vivo joint behavior, new devices, and surgical techniques but have typically been applied to a small or single subject cohort. Anatomic variability necessitates the use of many subject-specific models or probabilistic methods in order to adequately evaluate a device or procedure for a population. However, a fully deformable finite element model can be computationally expensive, prohibiting large multisubject or probabilistic analyses. The aim of this study was to develop a group of subject-specific models of the patellofemoral joint and evaluate trade-offs in analysis time and accuracy with fully deformable and rigid body articular cartilage representations. Finite element models of eight subjects were used to tune a pressure-overclosure relationship during a simulated deep flexion cycle. Patellofemoral kinematics and contact mechanics were evaluated and compared between a fully deformable and a rigid body analysis. Additional eight subjects were used to determine the validity of the rigid body pressure-overclosure relationship as a subject-independent parameter. There was good agreement in predicted kinematics and contact mechanics between deformable and rigid analyses for both the tuned and test groups. Root mean square differences in kinematics were less than 0.5 deg and 0.2 mm for both groups throughout flexion. Differences in contact area and peak and average contact pressures averaged 5.4%, 9.6%, and 3.8%, respectively, for the tuned group and 6.9%, 13.1%, and 6.4%, respectively, for the test group, with no significant differences between the two groups. There was a 95% reduction in computational time with the rigid body analysis as compared with the deformable analysis. The tuned pressure-overclosure relationship derived from the patellofemoral analysis was also applied to tibiofemoral (TF) articular cartilage in a group of eight subjects. Differences in contact area and peak and average contact pressures averaged 8.3%, 11.2%, and 5.7% between rigid and deformable analyses in the tibiofemoral joint. As statistical, probabilistic, and optimization techniques can require hundreds to thousands of analyses, a viable platform is crucial to component evaluation or clinical applications. The computationally efficient rigid body platform described in this study may be integrated with statistical and probabilistic methods and has potential clinical application in understanding in vivo joint mechanics on a subject-specific or population basis.
Analytic Solution for the Bound-State Wave Functions of the Exponentially Screened Coulomb Potential

A new method is described to obtain a sequence of wave functions and energy eigenvalues which converge rapidly to the exact bound state of the Schr\"odinger equation for the exponentially screened Coulomb potential.
Role of Radiation Therapy in Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): Analysis of SEER-17 Data

Radiation therapy is a mainstay local treatment for patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Meta-analysis showed that the addition of thoracic radio-therapy (TRT) has significantly improved survival for patients with limited-stage SCLC. TRT is also a commonly used palliative approach for patients with extensive-stage SCLC. However, current data on SCLC is largely based on the Veteran’s Administration Lung Group (VALG) 2-stage classification system, which was first introduced in the 1950s . A new lung cancer TNM staging system developed by IASLC and adopted by AJCC (7th edition) in 2010, is also applicable to SCLC.
Statistical Analysis of Vibration Modes of a Suspension Bridge Using Spatially Dense Wireless Sensor Network

A spatially dense wireless sensor network was designed, developed and installed on a long-span suspension bridge for a 3-month deployment to record ambient acceleration. A total 174 sets of data (1.3 GB) were collected from 64 sensor nodes on the main span and south tower of the Golden Gate Bridge. Analysis of the vibration data using power spectral densities and peak picking provide approximate estimates of vibration modes with minimal computation. For more detailed analysis of the data, autoregressive with moving average models (ARMA) give parametric estimates of vibration modes for frequencies up to 5 Hz. Statistical analysis of the multiple realizations give the distributions of the vibration frequencies, damping ratios, and mode shapes and 95% confidence intervals. The statistical results are compared with vibration properties using the peak picking method and previous studies of the bridge using measured data and a finite-element model. Analysis of the ambient vibration data and system identification results demonstrate that high spatial and temporal sensing using the wireless sensor network give a high resolution and confidence in the identified vibration modes. The estimation errors for the identified vibration properties are generally low, with frequencies being the most accurate and damping ratios the least accurate.
Extra-Coding Characteristics of hERG mRNA are Essential for Channel Function

The KCNH2 gene encodes the hERG protein, the alpha subunit of the rapid delayed rectifying potassium channel. This potassium channel plays an essential role in cardiac repolarization, and malfunction of this channel caused by mutation leads to Long QT Syndrome, type 2 (LQT2). LQT2 causes increased repolarization time in the heart, leading to ventricular arrhythmias, syncope and sudden death. There are over 600 documented mutations in KCNH2 associated with Long QT syndrome, with more mutations being reported regularly. These mutations occur throughout the length of the gene, without definitive mutational hotspots.While much investigation has been done to characterize the impact that these mutations have on the hERG channel function, little investigation has been focused on what causes the hERG channel to be intolerant to mutation. Our hypothesis is that “extra-coding” characteristics on the mRNA level, such as GC content, rare codon usage and mRNA structure play a critical role in determining correct protein synthesis for the hERG channel, and that mutational changes that disrupt these characteristics lead to Long QT Syndrome. To investigate this hypothesis first, hERG SNPs will be analyzed to both identify trends in disease-causing SNPs, and to find differences between disease-causing and benign SNPs such as changes in local GC content or disruption of codon usage frequency. Secondly, using a codon-modified hERG mRNA with decreased rare codon usage, GC content and CpG islands when compared to native hERG mRNA, the role of mRNA structure and ribosomal movement in determining secondary and tertiary protein structure will be investigated.
Low temperature geomicrobiology follows host rock composition along a geochemical gradient in lau basin.

The East Lau Spreading Center (ELSC) and Valu Fa Ridge (VFR) comprise a ridge segment in the southwest Pacific Ocean where rapid transitions in the underlying mantle chemistry manifest themselves as gradients in seafloor rock geochemistry. We studied the geology and microbial diversity of three silicate rock samples and three inactive sulfide chimney samples collected, from north to south, at the vent fields Kilo Moana, ABE, Tui Malila, and Mariner. This is the first study of microbial populations on basaltic andesite, which was sampled at Mariner vent field. Silicate rock geochemistry exhibits clear latitudinal trends that are mirrored by changes in bacterial community composition. α-proteobacteria, e-proteobacteria, and Bacteroidetes are most common on a silicate collected from Kilo Moana and their proportions decrease linearly on silicates collected further south. Conversely, a silicate from Mariner vent field hosts high proportions of a unique lineage of Chloroflexi unrelated (<90% sequence similarity) to previously recovered environmental clones or isolates, which decrease at ABE and are absent at Kilo Moana. The exteriors of inactive sulfide structures are dominated by lineages of sulfur oxidizing α-proteobacteria, γ-proteobacteria, and e-proteobacteria, while the interior of one chimney is dominated by putative sulfur-reducing δ-proteobacteria. A comparison of bacterial communities on inactive sulfides from this and previous studies reveals the presence of a clade of uncultured Bacteroidetes exclusive to sulfidic environments, and a high degree of heterogeneity in bacterial community composition from one sulfide structure to another. In light of the heterogeneous nature of bacterial communities observed here and in previous studies of both active and inactive hydrothermal sulfide structures, the presence of numerous niches may be detected on these structures in the future by finer scale sampling and analysis.
Bladder cancer: Towards risk stratification in bladder cancer.

Bladder cancer risk assessment is currently based on an individual's age and history of exposure to known carcinogens. A new report illustrates how interactions between cigarette smoking and germline genetic variation can identify those at particularly high risk, who could be targeted in future bladder cancer prevention and screening efforts.
Prospective Pilot Survey of Bereavement Practices of Cancer Care and Palliative Care Physicians in the Northwest United States

Physicians in the Northwest United States Aaron S. Kusano, MD, SM1, Tawni Kenworthy-Heinige, BS, CCRP2, Charles R. Thomas, Jr., MD3 1Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. 2Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Knight Cancer Institute/Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR. 3Department of Radiation Medicine, Knight Cancer Institute/Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR
Potential geographic distribution of atmospheric nitrogen deposition from intensive livestock production in North Carolina, USA.

Abstract To examine the consequences of increased spatial aggregation of livestock production facilities, we estimated the annual production of nitrogen in livestock waste in North Carolina, USA, and analyzed the potential distribution of atmospheric nitrogen deposition from confined animal feeding operations (“CAFO”) lagoons. North Carolina is a national center for industrial livestock production. Livestock is increasingly being raised in CAFOs, where waste is frequently held, essentially untreated, in open-air lagoons. Reduced nitrogen in lagoons is volatilized as ammonia (NH3), transported atmospherically, and deposited to other ecosystems. The Albemarle-Pamlico Sound, NC, is representative of nitrogen-sensitive coastal waters, and is a major component of the second largest estuarine complex in the U.S. We used GIS to model the area of water in the Sound within deposition range of CAFOs. We also evaluated the number of lagoons within deposition range of each 1 km2 grid cell of the state. We considered multiple scenarios of atmospheric transport by varying distance and directionality. Modeled nitrogen deposition rates were particularly elevated for the Coastal Plain. This pattern matches empirical data, suggesting that observed regional patterns of reduced nitrogen deposition can be largely explained by two factors: limited atmospheric transport distance, and spatial aggregation of CAFOs. Under our medium-distance scenario, a small portion (roughly 22%) of livestock production facilities contributes disproportionately to atmospheric deposition of nitrogen to the Albemarle-Pamlico Sound. Furthermore, we estimated that between 14–37% of the state receives 50% of the state's atmospheric nitrogen deposition from CAFO lagoons. The estimated total emission from livestock is 134,000 t NH3 yr− 1, 73% of which originates from the Coastal Plain. Stronger waste management and emission standards for CAFOs, particularly those on the Coastal Plain nearest to sensitive water bodies, may help mitigate negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems.
Evaluation of Vitek GPS-SA card for testing of oxacillin against borderline-susceptible staphylococci that lack mec.

Fifty-oneStaphylococcus aureusstrains lackingmecfor which oxacillin MICs were 1 to 8 mg/ml were tested against oxacillin and the combination of oxacillin and clavulanic acid with the Vitek GPS-SA card, the reference broth microdilution method, and the oxacillin agar screen plate. Of the 51 strains, 44 (86%) did not grow on the oxacillin agar screen plate, broth microdilution MICs were 1 to 2 mg/ml, and GPS-SA card MICs were 4 mg/ml and GPS-SA card MICs were >4 mg/ml; for the other 3 strains, corresponding MICs were 4 and <2 mg/ml, respectively. The GPS-SA card classified 86% of strains as oxacillin susceptible. The distinction between oxacillin-susceptible and oxacillinresistant staphylococci continues to pose a challenge for the clinical laboratory. Although homogeneously resistant isolates can generally be accurately classified by routine susceptibility testing procedures, heterogeneously resistant isolates belonging to the class 1 or 2 phenotype described by Tomasz et al. (11) remain problematical. Several studies have shown substantial false susceptibility rates by the disk diffusion test with phenotypic expression class 1 and 2 oxacillin-resistant staphylococci(2,4,5).Falsesusceptibilitywasnot,however,aserious problem when such isolates were tested by Knapp et al. (5) in the Vitek GPS-SA card. OneunresolvedissueinthestudybyKnappetal.(5)wasthe ability of the Vitek GPS-SA card to correctly classify staphylococci that lackmecand are borderline susceptible to oxacillin. Studies of such isolates by Gerberding et al. (3) and Unal et al. (12) have shown discrepancies among disk diffusion, microdilution, and oxacillin agar screening test results. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance characteristics of the Vitek GPS-SA card with a well-characterized collection of clinical isolates of oxacillin borderlinesusceptibleStaphylococcus aureus.
Enteric hyperoxaluria: an important cause of end-stage kidney disease

Hyperoxaluria is a frequent complication of inflammatory bowel diseases, ileal resection and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and is well-known to cause nephrolithiasis and nephrocalcinosis. The associated prevalence of chronic kidney disease and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) is less clear but may be more consequential than recognized. In this review, we highlight three cases of ESKD due to enteric hyperoxaluria following small bowel resections. We review current information on the pathophysiology, complications and treatment of this complex disease.
Laryngeal cleft: evaluation and management.

Abstract Objectives Review the latest diagnostic and treatment modalities for laryngeal and laryngotracheoesophageal clefts as they can be a major cause of respiratory and feeding morbidity in the infant and pediatric population. Methods Literature review of published reports. Results The presentation of laryngeal cleft usually involves respiratory symptoms, such as stridor, chronic cough, aspiration, and recurrent respiratory infections. Clefts of the larynx and trachea/esophagus can occur in isolation, as part of a syndrome (Opitz-Frias, VATER/VACTERL, Pallister Hall, CHARGE), or with other associated malformations (gastrointestinal, genitourinary, cardiac, craniofacial). This publication reviews the presenting signs/symptoms, diagnostic options, prognosis, and treatment considerations based on over a decade of experience of the senior author with laryngeal clefts. Conclusions Type I laryngeal clefts can be managed medically or surgically depending on the degree of morbidity. Types II, III, and IV require endoscopic or open surgery to avoid chronic respiratory and feeding complications.
The High Cost of Human Trafficking

Human trafficking is a horrific violation of basic human rights. The forensic nurse has a key role in assessing and identifying cases and can be a crucial link to victims' freedom.
α-Glucosidase inhibitory activity and antioxidant capacity in the peel and pulp of mixed-species blueberry hybrids

Inhibition of α-glucosidase activity is considered an effective means for controlling diabetes by regulating glucose uptake, and blueberries have been shown to possess high levels of inhibitory activity. In the present study, we examined the variations in α-glucosidase inhibition, phenolic and anthocyanin levels, and antioxidant capacity in the peel and pulp of 16 mixed-species rabbiteye hybrids (Vaccinium ashei Reade × Vaccinium spp.), one rabbiteye cultivar (V. ashei) and two highbush hybrids (Vaccinium corymbosum). Peel tissue had, on average, about four times higher levels of α-glucosidase inhibitory activity than pulp, and exhibited significantly higher levels of all other measured activities, even though the peel comprised only a small portion of the fruit. Significant variations in the levels of antioxidant activity were observed; however, no consistent differences were observed between the hybrids with various species composition. Significant positive correlations (r≥ 0.84) were found among α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, total anthocyanin (TA) and phenolic levels, and scavenging activity against ROO∙, ∙OH, 1O2 and H2O2 radicals in the extracts from the peel and pulp. There was a high correlation observed between α-glucosidase inhibitory activity levels and ROO∙(ORAC)peel (r= 0.95). A similarly high correlation with TApeel (r= 0.93) suggests that TA would be a suitable assay proxy if a broader genotypic evaluation of blueberry genotypes is desired.
Performance Evaluation and Fund Selection Criteria for Mutual Funds over the Period 2000-2011

This article examines the performance of 1374 actively managed mutual funds over the period 2000-2011 in order to identify trading strategies which may be used by financial planners and investors in selecting the right type of mutual funds to achieve specific investment goals. Each mutual fund’s performance is measured in excess returns. The key characteristics that are compared for each fund include: small-cap, mid-cap, large-cap funds, the funds’ total net asset value, expense ratio, fund manager’s tenure, each fund’s total percentage investment in the top ten percent of its holdings, and the percentage of each fund’s investment in cash. The characteristics of the top performing funds (winners) and the lowest performing funds (losers) are identified in order to assist financial planners and investors in their investment decisions.
Predictions for epicardial ventricular action potentials of healthy and diabetic rats

A computer model of the epicardial ventricular cell has been developed from both voltage clamp and action potential data to determine the contribution of the outward K/sup +/ currents to the action potential variation in healthy and diabetic male rats. The epicardial ventricular cell model has two major components: a membrane model and a fluid compartment model. The membrane was represented by the membrane capacitance, the ionic currents, and the membrane pumps and exchanger. The ionic changes of Na/sup +/, Ca/sup 2+/ and K/sup +/ were described for the lumped fluid compartment. Mathematical equations were developed to model the electrical changes observed in the two prominent K/sup +/ channels (the transient outward K/sup +/ current I/sub t/, and the sustained outward K/sup +/ current I/sub sus/) for the epicardial ventricular cells of the normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The results conclude that the ventricular cell model can predict epicardial action potentials for the diabetic rats by decreasing the normal density of I/sub t/ by 45% and of I/sub sus/ by 40%.
Introducing abstraction and decomposition to novice programmers

This paper discusses a learning exercise we use in our beginning programming classes to introduce students to the concepts of abstraction and decomposition. The assignment is to write a perpetual calendar generation program: given a month and a year the program will display the correct monthly calendar. The learning goals of the exercise include how to decompose a large problem into smaller pieces and how to specify what each piece needs to do. This exercise helps students learn the process of incremental and iterative development. More than the actual solution, the value of this exercise is in the several themes of software development that are discussed during its development. We have successfully used this assignment for several years in a variety of CS1/CS2 programming environments (Pascal, C, Java and .net) and also as a Java servlet based web application exercise. Over this period, the case-study has received very favorable feedback from students as to its interestingness and pedagogical value.
Reconfigurable Computing Architectures

Reconfigurable architectures can bring unique capabilities to computational tasks. They offer the performance and energy efficiency of hardware with the flexibility of software. In some domains, they are the only way to achieve the required, real-time performance without fabricating custom integrated circuits. Their functionality can be upgraded and repaired during their operational lifecycle and specialized to the particular instance of a task. We survey the field of reconfigurable computing, providing a guide to the body-of-knowledge accumulated in architecture, compute models, tools, run-time reconfiguration, and applications.
A note on Scheffé's confidence intervals

Abstract It is commonly known that there is a relationship between (1) Scheffe's simultaneous confidence intervals on estimable linear functions of β, the vector of parameters in a linear model, and (2) the F test concerning a linear hypothesis on β. This relationship is utilized to identify a set of linearly independent best linear unbiased estimators of estimable functions of β that are influential contributors to the significance of the F test.
Repair of post-laryngectomy pharyngeal fistulae.

Post-laryngectomy pharyngeal fistulization is an unpleasant occurrence. Presented herein is the author's approach to this problem, along with two cases in which closure was effected by sternocleidomastoid (SCM) myoplasty.SCM myocutaneous flaps have previously been considered for pharyngocutaneous fistulae and then disregarded due to the doubtful nature of the blood supply to the skin. The SCM myoplasty obviates this problem as it relies on muscle rather than skin. SCM myoplasty has been used as a bolster in pharyngeal reconstruction after the pharynx has been closed by pharyngeal mucosal advancement or rotation. The author has extended this idea utilizing the raw muscle of the SCM to directly reconstruct the defect in fistulae deemed too large for primary closure.Anatomical, oncological and technical considerations are discussed, as well as the author's protocol for post-laryngectomy pharyngocutaneous fistulae.
The Nature of the Arabidopsis fon1 Mutations

Recently, we described three similar Arabidopsis mutants, floral organ number ( fon ) 1-1 , fon1-2 , and fon1-3 , that each exhibit an increased number of stamens and carpels ([Huang and Ma, 1997][1]). Although these phenotypes resemble those conditioned by weak alleles of superman ( sup ), on the
MicroRNA-10A* and MicroRNA-21 Modulate Endothelial Progenitor Cell Senescence Via Suppressing High-Mobility Group A2

Rationale: Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) contribute to the regeneration of endothelium. Aging-associated senescence results in reduced number and function of EPCs, potentially contributing to increased cardiac risk, reduced angiogenic capacity, and impaired cardiac repair effectiveness. The mechanisms underlying EPC senescence are unknown. Increasing evidence supports the role of microRNAs in regulating cellular senescence. Objective: We aimed to determine whether microRNAs regulated EPC senescence and, if so, what the underlying mechanisms are. Methods and Results: To map the microRNA/gene expression signatures of EPC senescence, we performed microRNA profiling and microarray analysis in lineage-negative bone marrow cells from young and aged wild-type and apolipoprotein E–deficient mice. We identified 2 microRNAs, microRNA-10A* (miR-10A*), and miR-21, and their common target gene Hmga2 as critical regulators for EPC senescence. Overexpression of miR-10A* and miR-21 in young EPCs suppressed Hmga2 expression, caused EPC senescence, as evidenced by senescence-associated β–galactosidase upregulation, decreased self-renewal potential, increased p16Ink4a/p19Arf expression, and resulted in impaired EPC angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo, resembling EPCs derived from aged mice. In contrast, suppression of miR-10A* and miR-21 in aged EPCs increased Hmga2 expression, rejuvenated EPCs, resulting in decreased senescence-associated β–galactosidase expression, increased self-renewal potential, decreased p16Ink4a/p19Arf expression, and improved EPC angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, these phenotypic changes were rescued by miRNA-resistant Hmga2 cDNA overexpression. Conclusions: miR-10A* and miR-21 regulate EPC senescence via suppressing Hmga2 expression and modulation of microRNAs may represent a potential therapeutic intervention in improving EPC-mediated angiogenesis and vascular repair. # Novelty and Significance {#article-title-35}
Pre-hospital treatment of the spinal cord patient

Abstract The aims of emergency management of the spinal cord patient are to preserve maximal neurologic function and to assure that the emergency care will not expose the individual to additional neurologic injury. All health care personnel involved in the pre-hospital phase of the emergency medical system must be trained to recognize the mechanisms that produce spinal cord injuries and to initiate appropriate treatment. The guidelines for care of these patients are outlined in this paper.
Comparative analysis of the capacity of elite suppressor CD4+ and CD8+ T cells to inhibit HIV-1 replication in monocyte-derived macrophages

Elite controllers or suppressors (ESs) are HIV-1-infected individuals who are able to maintain viral loads below the limit of detection of clinical assays without antiretroviral therapy. The mechanisms of virologic control are not fully understood, but ESs have been shown to have a more effective CD8+ T cell response to infected CD4+ T cells than chronic progressors (CPs). While macrophages are another cell type productively infected by HIV-1, few studies have examined the ability of primary effector T cells to suppress HIV-1 replication in these target cells. Here, we compared the ability of unstimulated primary CD4+ and CD8+ effector T cells to suppress viral replication in monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) in ESs and CPs. While CD4+ effector T cells were capable of inhibiting viral replication in MDMs, the magnitude of this response was not significantly different between ESs and CPs. In contrast, the CD8+ T cells from ESs were significantly more effective than those from CPs at inhibiting viral replication in MDMs. The CD4+ T cell response was partially mediated by soluble factors, while the CD8+ T cell response required cell-to-cell interaction. Our results suggest that the individual contributions of various effector cells should be considered in rational vaccine design and in ongoing eradication efforts. IMPORTANCE Elite suppressors are individuals capable of maintaining low-level viremia in HIV-1 infection without antiretroviral drugs. Their T cell responses have been implicated in eliminating infected CD4+ T cells, and as such, elite suppressors may represent a model of a functional cure of HIV-1 infection. Here, we sought to determine whether the suppressive T cell responses against infected CD4+ T cells also apply to infected macrophages by comparing the responses of elite suppressors and HIV-1-positive individuals on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Our results show that the CD8+ cells but not CD4+ T cells from elite suppressors have a response against infected macrophages superior to the response of CD8+ cells from patients on HAART. Our results suggest that the induction of a CD8+ T cell response effective against infected macrophages is an outcome to consider in rational vaccine design.
Identification of a second aryl phosphate-binding site in protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1B: A paradigm for inhibitor design

The structure of the catalytically inactive mutant (C215S) of the human protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) has been solved to high resolution in two complexes. In the first, crystals were grown in the presence of bis-(para-phosphophenyl) methane (BPPM), a synthetic high-affinity low-molecular weight nonpeptidic substrate (Km = 16 microM), and the structure was refined to an R-factor of 18. 2% at 1.9 A resolution. In the second, crystals were grown in a saturating concentration of phosphotyrosine (pTyr), and the structure was refined to an R-factor of 18.1% at 1.85 A. Difference Fourier maps showed that BPPM binds PTP1B in two mutually exclusive modes, one in which it occupies the canonical pTyr-binding site (the active site), and another in which a phosphophenyl moiety interacts with a set of residues not previously observed to bind aryl phosphates. The identification of a second pTyr molecule at the same site in the PTP1B/C215S-pTyr complex confirms that these residues constitute a low-affinity noncatalytic aryl phosphate-binding site. Identification of a second aryl phosphate binding site adjacent to the active site provides a paradigm for the design of tight-binding, highly specific PTP1B inhibitors that can span both the active site and the adjacent noncatalytic site. This design can be achieved by tethering together two small ligands that are individually targeted to the active site and the proximal noncatalytic site.
Developments in the CSU-RAMS Aerosol Model: Emissions, Nucleation, Regeneration, Deposition, and Radiation

The Colorado State University (CSU) Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS) has undergone development focused on improving the treatment of aerosols in the microphysics model, with the goal of examining the impacts of aerosol characteristics, scavenging, and regeneration processes, among others, on precipitation processes in clouds ranging from stratocumulus to deep convection and mixed-phase orographic clouds.Improvementsintherepresentationofaerosolsallowformorecomprehensivestudiesofaerosoleffects on cloud systems across scales. In RAMS there are now sub- and supermicrometer modes of sulfate, mineral dust, sea salt, and regenerated aerosol. All aerosol species can compete for cloud droplet nucleation, and they are regenerated via hydrometeor evaporation. A newly applied heterogeneous ice nuclei parameterization accounts for deposition nucleation and condensation and immersion freezing of aerosols greater than 0.5-mm diameter. There are also schemes for trimodal sea salt emissions and bimodal dust lofting that are functions of wind speed and surface properties. Aerosol wet and dry deposition accounts for collection by falling hydrometeors as well as gravitational settling of aerosols on water, soil, and vegetation. Aerosol radiative effects are parameterized via the Mie theory. An examination of the simulated impact of aerosol characteristics, sources, andsinksrevealsmixedsensitivityamongcloudtypes.Forexample,reducedaerosolsolubilityhaslittleimpact on deep convection since supersaturations are large and nearly all accumulation-mode aerosols activate. In contrast, reduced solubility results in reduced aerosol activation in precipitating stratocumulus. This leads to lower cloud droplet concentration, larger droplet size, and more efficient warm rain processes.
MODIFICATION OF LARGE EDDIES IN TURBULENT BOUNDARY LAYERS

Turbulent boundary layers were altered with a tandem array of manipulators arranged to produce a maximum drag reduction. The Reynolds number based on the momentum thickness, Re θ , at the first manipulator position was between 1700 and 2400. Temperature was used as a passive contaminant to explore the dynamical relationship between the near-wall and outer regions of the manipulated layer. Heat was introduced by warming the wall uniformly to 15°C above the ambient temperature or with a line heater in the wake of the manipulator. Temperature and velocity measurements showed a reduction in fluctuation amplitude and a strong decrease in larger scale mixing accompanied by a reduction of the Taylor microscale and integral lengthscale. Isocorrelations indicated that the eddy size was decreased in all three directions. The net result of the manipulators was a marked decrease in the entrainment of irrotational fluid into the boundary layer. The results suggest that the manipulators do not directly affect the wall region but rather decrease the entrainment, and hence the growth of the boundary layer, leading to possible drag reduction.
Sparse Representation-based Super-Resolution for Face Recognition At a Distance

Face recognition is a challenging task, especially when low-resolution images or image sequences are used. A decrease in image resolution results in a loss of facial high frequency components leading to a decrease in recognition rates. In this paper, we propose a new method for super-resolution by building a dictionary of high-frequency components in the facial data, which are added to a low-resolution input image to create a super-resolved image. Our method is different from existing methods as we estimate the high-frequency components, rather than studying the direct relationship between the high- and low-resolution images. Quantitative and qualitative results are reported for both synthetic and surveillance facial image databases.
Automated red-eye detection and correction in digital photographs

Caused by light reflected off the subject's retina, red-eye is a troublesome problem in consumer photography. Although most of the cameras have the red-eye reduction mode, the result reality is that no on-camera system is completely effective. In this paper, we propose a fully automatic approach to detecting and correcting red-eyes in digital images. In order to detect red-eyes in a picture, a heuristic yet efficient algorithm is first adopted to detect a group of candidate red regions and then an eye classifier is utilized to confirm whether each candidate region is a human eye. Thereafter, for each detected redeye, we can correct it by the correction algorithm. In case that a red-eye cannot be detected automatically, another algorithm is also provided to detect red-eyes manually with the user's interaction by clicking on an eye. Experimental results on about 300 images with various red-eye appearances demonstrate that the proposed solution is robust and effective.
Measuring overcast colors with all-sky imaging

Digital images of overcast skies as seen from the earth's surface open new windows onto the angular details of overcast colors and visible-wavelength spectra. After calibration with a spectroradiometer, a commercial CCD camera equipped with a fisheye lens can produce colorimetrically accurate all-sky maps of overcast spectra. Histograms and azimuthally averaged curves of the resulting chromaticities show consistent, but unexpected, patterns in time-averaged overcast colors. Although widely used models such as LOWTRAN7 and MODTRAN4 cannot explain these characteristic patterns, a simple semiempirical model based on the radiative transfer equation does, and it provides insights into the visible consequences of absorption and scattering both within and beneath overcasts.
Relative spectral attenuation coefficients of water.

The relative variation of attenuation coefficient with wavelength has been studied in the laboratory for distilled water and seawater. The study was for the purpose of locating any very fine structure in the attenuation vs wavelength curve. The spectral region from 3750 A to 6850 A was examined with 0.2 A resolution; water paths were 9.7 m and 19.5 m. Studies of the microphotometer traces show no discernible very fine structure in either distilled water or seawater. The limit of detection was set by plate grain and corresponded to a variation of 0.1 × 104/cm in the attenuation coefficient. Curves of relative coefficients vs wavelength show very shallow unstructured peaks at about 4700 A, 5150 A, and 5500 A, but these are relatively broad (~50 A).
Highly Efficient Stereospecific Preparation of Tn and TF Building Blocks Using Thioglycosyl Donors and the Ph2SO/Tf2O Promotor System*

The activation of 2‐azido‐2‐deoxy Tn and TF thioglycosyl donors by the powerful thiophilic promoter system Ph2SO/Tf2O has been investigated. Glycosylation of an Fmoc‐protected threonine derivative gave 1,2‐cis glycosides in high yields and excellent stereoselectivities. The galactosylation of phenyl 2‐azido‐4,6‐O‐benzylidene‐2‐deoxy‐1‐thio‐β‐D‐galactopyranoside was achieved in high yield and without orthoester formation using a trichloroacetimidate donor carrying a 2‐O‐(2,5‐difluorobenzoyl) group. The anomeric thiophenyl group of the constructed TF disaccharide could directly be activated by the van Boom promotor for the glycosylation of a threonine derivative. * Dedicated to the memory of Professor Jacques H. van Boom
The Application and Economic Interpretation of Selectivity Models

Substantial differences in economic interpretations may be inferred from the estimated selectivity model results. Using the demand for frozen concentrated orange juice (FCOJ) as an example, the study suggests that the consumption patterns are quite similar between national brand and private label when the marginal effects and elasticities are evaluated based on actual observations rather than unobserved latent variables. Results show that private label FCOJ is considered as a normal (inferior) good if the income effect is assessed based on actual (potential) purchases. The estimated cents-off elasticities for private label FCOJ also vary substantially depending on which approach is used.
Aprotic Electrolytes in Li–Air Batteries

Compared to Li-ion batteries, the Li–air battery is a relatively new concept and much of its problems remain to be solved. One of the key problems is the stability of the electrolytes, which is the subject of this chapter in which we review experimental and computational studies on this subject. The electrolyte stability is of concern during both charge and discharge at both the cathode and anode. In addition to electrochemical reactions, there can also be chemical reactions on the surfaces not directly involving electron transfer. Most experimental and computational studies so far have focused on the stability of solvents during charge and discharge at the cathode. Although there is strong evidence that the carbonates are decomposing at the cathode to form solid products such as Li2CO3, it is still not yet completely clear how the reduced O2 species are directly related to the decomposition mechanism. Recent experimental and computational work has focused on the stability of ether-based electrolytes. Ether-based electrolytes have been found to have increased stability for oxygen reduction products during discharge as most studies do not see evidence for solid decomposition products. However, ethers still have stability issues arising from other decomposition mechanisms such as oxidation during charge and chemical decomposition on the lithium oxide surfaces. In addition, decomposition reactions may occur at the anode, involving an oxygen crossover effect. Meanwhile, independent of whether the solvent decomposition reaction proceeds via O2 2−, LiO2, or another Li–air reactive species, it is now clear that a solvent that is resistant to attack by reduced O2 species must be discovered in order to achieve a practical Li–air cell with a long cycle life. Besides the problems of solvent electrochemical stability, the electrochemical selectivity also has to be resolved.
There are things that we can do.

There are many reasons for us to be concerned about the changes in the health-care system and how they are affecting us. At the federal level, we have the impending reforms of the Medicare and Medicaid programs, the proposed cuts in funding for research and graduate medical education, and the continuing regulatory constraints from the Federal Trade Commission, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Health Care Finance Administration. State and local concerns center on the continuing growth and evolution of managed care and the local consequences of Medicare and Medicaid reforms. These changes are having a significant impact on our ability to deliver quality care because of the overriding focus on the bottom line, the loss of physician control of clinical decision-making, the limitations in the access of patients to our care, and indeed the viability of our practices and our specialty. These concerns are becoming so overwhelming that there seems to be a growing sense of despair that there is little, if anything, that we as individuals or as an Academy can do about them. The changes are being cost-driven by forces of immense power—the federal and state governments and big business. Individual orthopaedists are vulnerable if they directly attempt to address problems associated with managed care. We have concerns that too many orthopaedists are being produced, but antitrust laws and the Federal Trade Commission limit our ability to act as groups of individuals or as an organization. Finally, federal and state legislators have little or no interest in what we think because they see us as being self-serving and as merely trying to preserve our incomes. Certainly there are reasons for concern, but I do not believe that there is reason for despair. There are things that can be done that can make a difference. Before turning …
Real-World Rib Fracture Patterns in Frontal Crashes in Different Restraint Conditions

Objective: The purpose of this study was to use the detailed medical injury information in the Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network (CIREN) to evaluate patterns of rib fractures in real-world crash occupants in both belted and unbelted restraint conditions. Fracture patterns binned into rib regional levels were examined to determine normative trends associated with belt use and other possible contributing factors.Methods: Front row adult occupants with Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) 3+ rib fractures, in frontal crashes with a deployed frontal airbag, were selected from the CIREN database. The circumferential location of each rib fracture (with respect to the sternum) was documented using a previously published method (Ritchie et al. 2006) and digital computed tomography scans. Fracture patterns for different crash and occupant parameters (restraint use, involved physical component, occupant kinematics, crash principal direction of force, and occupant age) were compared qualitatively and quantitat...