cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 17809: Advanced Computational Modeling for Therapeutic Decision-Making in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Focus on Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Background: We explored the feasibility of a support vector machine (SVM) model to predict gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and to potentially guide therapeutic decision-making. Methods: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Cardiovascular Consortium registry data with 69 pre-procedural and angiographic variables from 68,022 PCI procedures in 2004-2007 were used to develop an SVM model to predict GI bleeding (n=786). The model was optimized for multivariate non-linear performance and tested on 42,310 PCI procedures performed in 2008-2009 (GI bleeding n=389). Model discrimination was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). We further compared the observed outcomes of patients at variable predicted risks of GI bleeding, and assessed the complication rate in those treated with bivalirudin versus those treated with platelet glycoprotein IIbIIIa inhibtors. Results: The SVM model provided high discrimination (AUROC 0.84) and improved reclassification relative to both L1-regularized (NRI 0.18, p Conclusion: A computational model based on SVM classification can accurately help identify patients at risk for GI bleeding following PCI. Use of bivalirudin instead of platelet GP IIbIIIa inhibitors in the highest risk patients may help reduce the occurrence of this complication.
Patient Experiences and Clinician Views on the Role of Radiation Therapy for Ductal Carcinoma In Situ

Purpose To evaluate patient experiences with decisions regarding radiation therapy (RT) for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), and to assess clinician views on the role of RT for DCIS with favorable features in the present era. Methods and Materials A sample of women with newly diagnosed breast cancer from the population-based Georgia and Los Angeles County Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registries were sent surveys approximately 2 months after undergoing breast-conserving surgery (BCS), with a 70% response rate. The analytic sample was limited to 538 respondents with unilateral DCIS. We also surveyed 761 surgeons and radiation oncologists treating breast cancer in those regions, of whom, 539 responded (71%). Results After BCS, 23% of patients omitted RT, with twice the rate of omission in Los Angeles County relative to Georgia (31% vs 16%; P Conclusions The heterogeneity in RT omission after BCS for DCIS continues to be substantial, with systematic differences in provider opinions across the 2 regions we studied. Enhanced precision of recurrence estimates, guidance from professional organizations, and better communication are needed to improve the consistency of treatment in this controversial area.
Medicine as Friendship with God: Anointing the Sick as a Theological Hermeneutic

A THEOLOGICAL BIOETHICS NEEDS, FIRST, A THEOLOGICAL POLITICS. THE thesis of this essay rests on the claim that the contours of a theological poli tics are found in the nature of sacramental practices. More specifically, a the ological politics of medicine is found in the sacramental practice of anointing of the sick. Anointing provides a radically theological hermeneutic—a theolog ically robust vision for interpreting medicine that, if enacted, can powerfully make real God's work in the world. Such a vision is embodied in one particu lar twentieth-century exemplar—the organization called Partners In Health (PIH) and its cofounder, Paul Farmer. Farmer and PIH, I argue, live the theologie and theological politics of medicine embodied in the practice of anointing. What is more, they show—against those who would accuse such an approach of be ing naively idealistic—that such a theological politics is possible, powerful, and can even change the world.
Observations of Nonlinear Internal Wave Run-Up to the Surfzone

AbstractThe cross-shore evolution of nonlinear internal waves (NLIWs) from 8-m depth to shore was observed by a dense thermistor array and ADCP. Isotherm oscillations spanned much of the water column at a variety of periods. At times, NLIWs propagated into the surfzone, decreasing temperature by ≈1°C in 5 min. When stratification was strong, temperature variability was strong and coherent from 18- to 6-m depth at semidiurnal and harmonic periods. When stratification weakened, temperature variability decreased and was incoherent between 18- and 6-m depth at all frequencies. At 8-m depth, onshore coherently propagating NLIW events had associated rapid temperature drops (ΔT) up to 1.7°C, front velocity between 1.4 and 7.4 cm s−1, and incidence angles between −5° and 23°. Front position, ΔT, and two-layer equivalent height zIW of four events were tracked upslope until propagation terminated. Front position was quadratic in time, and normalized ΔT and zIW both decreased, collapsing as a linearly decaying funct...
Antenna-in-package design and module integration for millimeter-wave communication and 5G

Co-design and integration of RFIC, package, and antennas are critical to enable 5G wireless communications and is particularly challenging at mmWave frequencies. This paper reviews two different aspects of mmWave antenna module packaging and integration for base station and user equipment applications, respectively. We first present the challenges, implementation, and characterization of a 28­GHz phased-array module with 64 dual polarized antennas for 5G base station applications. Next, we describe a compact, low-power, 60-GHz switched-beam transceiver module suitable for handset integration incorporating 4 antennas that supports both normal and end-fire directions for a wide link spatial coverage.
Insulin Resistance in the Metabolic Syndrome

In 1988, Gerald Reaven coined the term “Syndrome X” to describe a complex of metabolic abnormalities, including glucose intolerance, hypertriglyceridemia and reduced levels of HDL-cholesterol, present in individuals at increased risk for cardiovascular disease [1]. Since then, attempts to quantify cardiovascular disease risk have led to the development of clinical criteria for the diagnosis of this syndrome, now known as the “metabolic syndrome” or “insulin resistance syndrome”. Although these criteria continue to evolve, those put forth by the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP), World Health Organization (WHO), European Group for the Study of Insulin Resistance (EGIR), International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE), all include hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL-cholesterol and hypertension (reviewed in [2)] (Table 1). It is clear now that the metabolic syndrome is associated with many diseases in addition to cardiovascular disease. These include cholesterol gallstones, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which ranges from benign steatosis to non-alcholic steatohepatitis (NASH), polycystic ovary disease (PCOS) and neurodegenerative disease.
Modern South Africa in World History: Beyond Imperialism

With eight concise chapters, Rob Skinner’s Modern South Africa in World History connects important transnational dots on the country’s global map. As a work that crosses intellectual borders and na...
qCDC: Metastability-Resilient Synchronization FIFO for SFQ Logic

Digital single-flux quantum (SFQ) technology promises to meet the demands of ultra low power and high speed computing needed for future exascale supercomputing systems. The combination of ultra high clock frequencies, gate-level pipelines, and numerous sources of variability in SFQ circuits, however, make low-skew global clock distribution a challenge. This motivates the support of multiple independent clock domains and related clock domain crossing circuits that enable reliable communication across domains. Existing J-SIM simulation models indicate that setup violations can cause clock-to-Q increases of up to 100%. This paper first shows that naive SFQ clock domain crossing (CDC) first-in-first-out buffers (FIFOs) are vulnerable to these delay increases, motivating the need for more robust CDC FIFOs. Inspired by CMOS multi-flip-flop asynchronous FIFO synchronizers, we then propose a novel 1-bit metastability-resilient SFQ CDC FIFO that simulations show delivers over a 1000 reduction in logical error rate at 30 GHz. Moreover, for a 10-stage FIFO, the Josephson junction (JJ) area of our proposed design is only 7.5% larger than the non-resilient counterpart. Finally, we propose design guidelines that define the minimal FIFO depth subject to both throughput and burstiness constraints.
Outsiders at Home: The Politics of American Islamophobia

Discrimination against Muslim Americans has soared over the last two decades with hostility growing especially acute since 2016 - in no small part due to targeted attacks by policymakers and media. Outsiders at Home offers the first systematic, empirically driven examination of status of Muslim Americans in US democracy, evaluating the topic from a variety of perspectives. To what extent do Muslim Americans face discrimination by legislators, the media, and the general public? What trends do we see over time, and how have conditions shifted? What, if anything, can be done to reverse course? How do Muslim Americans view their position, and what are the psychic and sociopolitical tolls? Answering each of these questions, Nazita Lajevardi shows that the rampant, mostly negative discussion of Muslims in media and national discourse has yielded devastating political and social consequences.
Dynamic Mode Decomposition of Random Pressure Fields over Bluff Bodies

AbstractFluctuating surface pressures on a bluff body exposed to a boundary layer flow generally are characterized as a spatiotemporally varying random field. In this paper, a dynamic mode decompos...
Adolescent emotional disorder symptoms and transdiagnostic vulnerabilities as predictors of young adult substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic: mediation by substance-related coping behaviors.

The COVID-19 pandemic presents unique stressors (e.g. social isolation) that may increase substance use risk among young adults with a history of emotional disturbance. This study examined whether ...
Gentle yet Manly: Xiao xian rou, Male Cosmetic Surgery and Neoliberal Consumer Culture in China

This article explores the phenomenal growth in the popularity of the “little fresh meat” (xiao xian rou) androgynous, effeminate male beauty trend and the rise in the demand for male cosmetic surge...
Book review: Jyoti Gulati Balachandran, Narrative Pasts: The Making of a Muslim Community in Gujarat, c. 1400–1650:

Jyoti Gulati Balachandran, Narrative Pasts: The Making of a Muslim Community in Gujarat, c. 1400–1650. Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2020, 248 pp.
Proper motion studies of H2O masers

The work of the CfA group over the past decade to measure the proper motions of H2O masers in our Galaxy is described. The distances to 7 masers have been measured and the distance to the Galactic Center, Ro, is estimated to be 7.6 ± 0.6 kpc. Various technical aspects of the measurements are discussed here.
The buckling behavior of uniformly heated thin circular cylindrical shells

The results of buckling tests on uniformly heated, clamped, thin circular cylindrical shells are presented and discussed. Particular attention is paid to both the actual buckling process and the ensuing post-buckling behavior. Load vs. end-shortening curves are included. The possibility of “snap-through” buckling which occurs at a value of end shortening greater than that corresponding to the maximum supported load is experimentally verified. A comparison of the present experimental results with available theory is made. It is observed that the experimental values of the buckling temperature can be substantially greater than the temperatures calculated by linear theory from the experimental buckling loads; however, the buckling stresses are the same whether the loading is thermal or mechanical.
Sex Like You Can't Even Imagine: “Crystal,” Crack and Gay Men

Abstract The past five years have witnessed a great increase in the use of the stimulant drugs crystal methamphetamine and smoked cocaine (crack) as part of a pattern of hypersexual behavior inextricably interwoven with substance dependence. With these patients, the problems are not independent, and exist almost exclusively in the company of one another. The paper describes a framework for evaluating patients and assessing their readiness for treatment in office based individual treatment that is informed by psychoanalytic principles. Typical resistances at each stage of treatment are described, with clinical recommendations for management. Common transference and countertransference paradigms are described. The paper includes psychoanalytic exploration of the possible meanings of the experience of drug/sex addiction, abstinence and fantasies that often precede relapse.
The Replaceable Fetus: A Reflection on Abortion and Disability

Although I self-identify as pro-choice, I do believe certain instances of abortion can be classified as, in Judith Jarvis Thomson's words, indecent. This paper explores one such case and uses it as a lens for a wider discussion on the moral dimensions of aborting due to fetal disability. Using virtue ethics as my foundational framework, I argue that while some cases of aborting due to fetal disability need not manifest vicious character traits, some very well may. In particular, I am concerned with cases where fetuses that had been thus far welcomed and loved by their respective community are suddenly regarded as candidates for abortion simply because they may have been diagnosed with a disability. That is, I am worried about cases where disability is deemed sufficient grounds for dehumanizing a being who had been, up until that point, embraced.
Rapid method to extract DNA from Cryptococcus neoformans.

A rapid and easy method for the extraction of total cellular DNA from Cryptococcus neoformans is described. This procedure modifies and considerably simplifies previously reported methods. Numerous steps were either eliminated or replaced, including preincubations with cell wall permeability agents such as beta-mercaptoethanol and dithiothreitol. The commercially available enzyme preparation Novozyme 234 was found to contain a potent concentration of DNases which actively degrade DNA. Degradation and loss of DNA was prevented by maintaining a high concentration of EDTA in the lysing solution. This procedure resulted in high yields (150 to 200 micrograms of DNA from 100 ml of culture) of good-quality (undegraded), high-molecular-weight DNA which was readily digested by restriction endonucleases, making it suitable for use in various molecular applications. Images
Ground penetrating radar geologic field studies of the ejecta of Barringer Meteorite Crater, Arizona, as a planetary analog

[1] Ground penetrating radar (GPR) has been a useful geophysical tool in investigating a variety of shallow subsurface geological environments on Earth. Here we investigate the capabilities of GPR to provide useful geologic information in one of the most common geologic settings of planetary surfaces, impact crater ejecta. Three types of ejecta are surveyed with GPR at two wavelengths (400 MHz, 200 MHz) at Meteor Crater, Arizona, with the goal of capturing the GPR signature of the subsurface rock population. In order to “ground truth” the GPR characterization, subsurface rocks are visually counted and measured in preexisting subsurface exposures immediately adjacent to and below the GPR transect. The rock size-frequency distribution from 10 to 50 cm based on visual counts is well described by both power law and exponential functions, the former slightly better, reflecting the control of fragmentation processes during the impact-ejection event. GPR counts are found to overestimate the number of subsurface rocks in the upper meter (by a factor of 2–3x) and underestimate in the second meter of depth (0.6–1.0x), results attributable to the highly scattering nature of blocky ejecta. Overturned ejecta that is fractured yet in which fragments are minimally displaced from their complement fragments produces fewer GPR returns than well-mixed ejecta. The use of two wavelengths and division of results into multiple depth zones provides multiple aspects by which to characterize the ejecta block population. Remote GPR measurement of subsurface ejecta in future planetary situations with no subsurface exposure can be used to characterize those rock populations relative to that of Meteor Crater.
A note on summability of multiple Laguerre expansions

A simple structure of the multiple Laguerre polynomial expansions is used to study the Ceshro summability above the critical index for the convolution type Laguerre expansions. The multiple Laguerre polynomial expansion of an i1-radial function fo(lxi) is shown to be an i1-radial function that coincides with the Laguerre polynomial expansion of fo, which allows us to settle the problem of summability below the critical index for the 01-radial functions. INTRODUCTION The aim of this note is to use a simple structure of the multiple Laguerre expansions to study their Cesa'ro summability. Let L', a >.-1, denote the Laguerre polynomial of degree n on the half line I+ = [0, oc). The polynomials L' form an orthogonal system in L2 (IR+, x e-xdx). The multiple Laguerre polynomials are products of L'i that form an orthogonal system in L2(Wf, x'e-1x dx), where a = (a,... ,ad) andI x= Xi+ +?Xd. By considering the Laguerre functions L'2(x) = Lo (x)e-x/2x-c/2 and their other varieties, L, ((x2/2)xor Lo, (X2) (2x)1/2, one can form orthogonal systems in L2(IR+, dx) and L2(IRI+, x2,+ldx). Consequently, there are at least four types of Laguerre expansions on IR+ studied in the literature and each has its extension in the multiple setting (see [5] for the definitions). An excellent reference on the summability of Laguerre expansion is the monograph [6] by Thangavelu; see also the references in [6] for various other studies. Our point of view is from that of orthogonal polynomials. Thus, we study the case that the multiple Laguerre polynomials form an orthogonal basis in L2(IRdf,x e-Ixtdx). Recently, we studied the summability of classical orthogonal polynomial expansions on the unit ball and on the standard simplex of Rd in [9], [10], and found that they are quite different from that of classical orthogonal polynomial expansions on the unit cube, and are in fact easier to deal with. The reason lies in the fact that the orthogonal structures on the ball and on the simplex are related to the orthogonal structure on the unit sphere, and the classical orthogonal polynomials are related to a special case of Dunkl's theory of spherical harmonic Received by the editors February 5, 1999. 1991 Mathematics Subject Classification. Primary 42C05, 33C50, 41A63.
Differential effects of nerve transection on the ACh and GABA receptors of chick ciliary ganglion neurons.

Chick ciliary ganglion neurons have nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) that mediate chemical transmission through the ganglion, and GABAA receptors of unknown significance. Previous experiments examining the role of cell-cell interactions in regulating neuronal AChRs have shown that postganglionic axotomy of ciliary ganglia in newly hatched chicks causes a 10-fold decline in total AChRs within 5 d compared with unoperated contralateral ganglia and that preganglionic denervation causes a 3-fold decline within 10 d. Many of the AChRs are known to be intracellular; of those present on the cell surface, only a small fraction appears to be functionally available normally. In the present experiments, the effects of the operations on functional AChRs and GABAA receptors in the plasma membrane of the neurons were examined by removing the ganglia 5 d after axotomy or 10 d after denervation, dissociating them into single cells, and immediately measuring their ACh and GABA sensitivities with intracellular recording techniques. The ACh sensitivity of axotomized ciliary ganglion neurons was reduced 10- fold compared with neurons from unoperated contralateral ganglia of the same chicks. The reduction could be largely accounted for by a decrease in the maximum response and did not arise from a change either in the dose-response curve or the acetylcholinesterase activity of the neurons. Autoradiographic studies using a radiolabeled anti-AChR monoclonal antibody also demonstrated a substantial decrease in the total number of surface AChRs associated with axotomized neurons. In contrast, axotomy had no unilateral effect on the GABA response.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Sugar and body weight regulation

The need to understand reasons for the high prevalence of obesity in developed countries has led to examination of dietary habits that may contribute to obesity. We consider whether consumption of high amounts of sugars presents a public health problem by contributing to the development of obesity. Metabolic studies show that diets high in fat are more likely to result in body fat accumulation than are diets high in carbohydrate. There is no indication that simple sugars differ from complex sugars in this regard. Epidemiologic data show a clear inverse relation between intake of sugar and fat. Further, although high intake of dietary fat is positively associated with indexes of obesity, high intake of sugar is negatively associated with indexes of obesity. There is ample reason to associate high-fat diets with obesity but, at present, no reason to associate high-sugar diets with obesity.
Arrays of microdischarge devices having 50-100 [micro sign]m square pyramidal Si anodes and screen cathodes

Microdischarge devices having (50–100 µm)2 pyramidal Si anodes and metal screen cathodes have been operated continuously at Ne gas pressures up to 1350 Torr and voltages below 95 V. More than 34 µW of output power is produced by a single device in a solid angle of ~5 × 10-2 sr for a Ne pressure of 500 Torr. 3 × 3 arrays of these devices have been fabricated.
Effect of carbon tetrachloride injury on plasma and liver vitamin B12 levels.

Summary(1) Administration of carbon tetrachloride increased the serum level of vit. B12 of rats fed a casein diet. No similar increase was observed in rats previously offered a low vit. B12 diet. (2) Administration of carbon tetrachloride likewise increased the urinary excretion of parenterally administered vit. B12 or of absorbed vit. B12 following oral administration. (3) Physiological significances of these findings are discussed.
Infra-red AlGaAs and visible AlGaInP laserdiode stack

A monolithic combination of an AlGaAs laser and an AlGaInP laser is demonstrated. The two lasers are grown in a stack, in a single metal organic vapour phase epitaxial growth. The two devices can be addressed individually, and exhibit good characteristics: for the AlGaAS laser, the pulsed threshold current density and efficiency are 240A/cm2 and 26%/facet, while the respective values for the red AlGaInP laser are 260A/cm2 and 21%/facet.
Synthesis, characterization and electropolymerization of ferrocene monomers with aniline and phenol substituents

Abstract The synthesis and electrochemical properties of the ferrocene compounds (C5H5)Fe(C5H4 CH2NHRn), where RnC6H5 (1), C6H4-3-NH2 (2), C6H4-3-OH (3) and (CH2)2NHC6H5 (4), are described. All compounds polymerize upon electrochemical oxidation of the phenyl portion of the complex in a CH3CN solution containing BU4NClO4 as supporting electrolyte. The phenol-substituted complex shows unique polymerization behavior: adding NEt3 to the electrolysis solution greatly enhances the rate of film deposition. Electrochemical characterization of the films shows well-defined couples for the ferrocene but no indication that the polymer backbones are electroactive. Spectroelectrochemical measurements show changes in the visible region of the spectrum characteristic for formation of the ferricinium cation, 0λmax = 620 nm, upon oxidation. In the case of the polymer from 2 a moderately intense absorption at 480 nm is also recorded, which suggests that the polymer backbone may be electrochemically active.
Optical Properties of SrBi2(Ta1—xNbx)2O9 Bulk Ceramics Characterized by Spectroscopic Ellipsometry

The optical properties of bulk SrBi 2 (Ta 1-x Nb x ) 2 O 9 (SBTN) were measured by variable angle spectroscopic ellipsometry. The effective medium approximation (EMA) theory was used to account for surface inhomogeneities, i.e., roughness, porosity and residual stress. It was found that the surface layer had a lower refractive index than the bulk phase due to these inhomogeneities. By applying the Lorentz oscillator model with a surface layer correction, we can roughly estimate the energy band gaps of SBTN from the resonance frequency hω 0 . Additionally, the variation of the refractive index with composition in the optical frequencies region can be correlated to the crystallographic orientation changes for the solid solutions.
Optimizing the photomechanical performance of glassy azobenzene liquid crystal polymer networks

Glassy, polydomain azobenzene liquid crystal polymer networks (azo-LCN) have been synthesized, characterized, and modeled to understand composition dependence on large amplitude, bidirectional bending and twisting deformation upon irradiation with linearly polarized blue-green (440-514 nm) light. These materials exhibit interesting properties for adaptive structure applications in which the shape of the photoresponsive solid state structure can be rapidly reconfigured with light. The basis for the photomechanical output observed in these materials is absorption of actinic light by azobenzene, which upon photoisomerization dictates an internal stress within the local polymer network. The photoinduced disruption of the order/orientation of the local polymer network accompanying photoisomerization is manifested in a macroscopic deformation. Accordingly, this work examines the polarization-controlled bidirectional bending of highly concentrated azo-LCN materials and compares the macroscopic bending to a nonlinear photoshell model. The resulting photomechanical output is highly dependent on the concentration of crosslinked azobenzene mesogens employed in the formulation. The model comparisons illustrate differences in internal photostrain and deformation rates as a function of composition.
Influence of cobalamin scarcity on diatom molecular physiology and identification of a cobalamin acquisition protein

Diatoms are responsible for ∼40% of marine primary production and are key players in global carbon cycling. There is mounting evidence that diatom growth is influenced by cobalamin (vitamin B12) availability. This cobalt-containing micronutrient is only produced by some bacteria and archaea but is required by many diatoms and other eukaryotic phytoplankton. Despite its potential importance, little is known about mechanisms of cobalamin acquisition in diatoms or the impact of cobalamin scarcity on diatom molecular physiology. Proteomic profiling and RNA-sequencing transcriptomic analysis of the cultured diatoms Phaeodactylum tricornutum and Thalassiosira pseudonana revealed three distinct strategies used by diatoms to cope with low cobalamin: increased cobalamin acquisition machinery, decreased cobalamin demand, and management of reduced methionine synthase activity through changes in folate and S-adenosyl methionine metabolism. One previously uncharacterized protein, cobalamin acquisition protein 1 (CBA1), was up to 160-fold more abundant under low cobalamin availability in both diatoms. Autologous overexpression of CBA1 revealed association with the outside of the cell and likely endoplasmic reticulum localization. Cobalamin uptake rates were elevated in strains overexpressing CBA1, directly linking this protein to cobalamin acquisition. CBA1 is unlike characterized cobalamin acquisition proteins and is the only currently identified algal protein known to be implicated in cobalamin uptake. The abundance and widespread distribution of transcripts encoding CBA1 in environmental samples suggests that cobalamin is an important nutritional factor for phytoplankton. Future study of CBA1 and other molecular signatures of cobalamin scarcity identified here will yield insight into the evolution of cobalamin utilization and facilitate monitoring of cobalamin starvation in oceanic diatom communities.
Three Examples of Anti‐Lub and Related Data

Three new examples of anti-Lub, two detected in 1963 and the third in 1965, are described. The first example was responsible for repeated hemolytic transfusion reactions, the second and third though associated with pregnancy do not appear to have been responsible for a clinical problem. 14,802 random donor bloods were typed with the first example and eight Lu(b—) bloods identified, the incidence being 0.057%. Lutheran typings on 95 individuals related to propositi who are Lu(a+b—), Lu(a+b+), and Lu(a—b—) revealed nine new Lu(b—) persons. Medical historical data on 85 known Lu(a+b—) persons are included in an attempt to evaluate the antigenicity of the Lub factor. The incidence of the phenotype, Lu(a+b+), in 556 Negroes was found to be 4.86%.
Rhizoctonia Web Blight Development on Azalea in Relation to Leaf Wetness Duration in the Glasshouse

Moisture variables have not been a consistent predictor of Rhizoctonia web blight development on container-grown azalea. A vapour pressure deficit <2.5 hPa was the only moisture variable attributed to slow web blight development in one study, yet in another study, frequent rainfall provided a moderately successful decision criterion for applying fungicide. To characterize web blight development in response to leaf wetness, plants were inoculated with two isolates of binucleate Rhizoctonia AG-U and maintained in a glasshouse in open-topped, clear plastic chambers with 0-, 4-, 8-, 12-, 16- and 20-h daily cycles of 20–30 s mist at 30-min intervals under day and night temperatures of 29 and 22°C, respectively. Leaf wetness duration closely matched misting cycle duration. Disease incidence was measured per chamber as a mean of the number of blighted leaves per total leaves per stem. A mixed model procedure was used to compare area under the disease progress curves (AUDPC) over 4–6 weeks in experiments performed in 2008 to 2010. Isolate response to mist cycle durations was not different (P = 0.4283) in 2008, but was different in 2009 (P = 0.0010) and 2010 (P < 0.0001) due to one isolate becoming less aggressive over time. AUDPC was consistently higher on azaleas under 16- and 20-h mist cycles, which formed a higher disease group not significantly different from each other. AUDPC under 0-, 4-, and 8-h mist cycles mostly formed a lower disease group, while ranking for a 12-h mist cycle varied across experiments from the higher, intermediate, or lower AUDPC groups. Current data demonstrate an empirical relationship between long daily leaf wetness durations and development of severe web blight symptoms within a temperature range considered favourable for Rhizoctonia web blight development. Additional studies would be required to model Rhizoctonia web blight development under natural temperature fluctuations.
Reasons for Pacifier Use and Non-Use in African-Americans: Does Knowledge of Reduced SIDS Risk Change Parents’ Minds?

To investigate African-American parental reasons for pacifier use or non-use, and whether knowledge of the association with decreased SIDS risk changes decisions about pacifier use. We conducted focus groups and individual interviews with mothers. Grounded theory methodology was used. 83 mothers participated; 72.3 % of infants used pacifiers. Reasons for pacifier use included comfort/soothing, safety/SIDS, and preference over digit-sucking. Reasons for pacifier non-use included infant refusal, fear of attachment, nipple confusion, and germs. Many parents were unaware that pacifier use reduces SIDS risk; however, most parents of non-users did not think that this knowledge would have changed their decision. Reasons included skepticism about the pacifier-SIDS link. Many reasons underlie African-American parental decisions about pacifier use. Providers should provide information about the benefits of pacifiers. Establishing for parents any plausible link between the protective mechanism of pacifiers and SIDS pathophysiology may be important in promoting pacifier use.
Bexarotene and narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy combination treatment for mycosis fungoides

Combination therapy for mycosis fungoides (MF) has the potential to be synergistic, improve therapeutic efficacy and reduce toxicities. We present a patient with MF who improved on combination therapy with bexarotene and narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) therapy. The patient is an 81-year-old Caucasian male who initially presented with stage IB MF. After temporary improvement with NB-UVB phototherapy, he progressed to develop plaques and tumors. Psoralen and ultraviolet A therapy was contraindicated because of ophthalmologic disease. Addition of bexarotene 300 mg daily led to rapid clinical improvement in combination with NB-UVB. Interruption of NB-UVB during a prolonged hospitalization led to a clinical flare of lesions, despite continued treatment with bexarotene. Reinitiating NB-UVB was associated with clinical improvement. This report demonstrates that combination treatment with oral bexarotene and NB-UVB therapy may represent a safe alternative for the treatment of plaque-stage MF.
Oral Cyclosporine Treatment in Dogs: A Review of the Literature

Cyclosporine is an immunomodulatory drug used to treat an increasing spectrum of diseases in dogs. Cyclosporine is a calcineurin inhibitor, ultimately exerting its inhibitory effects on T-lymphocytes by decreasing production of cytokines, such as interleukin-2. Although, in the United States, oral cyclosporine is approved in dogs only for treatment of atopic dermatitis, there are many other indications for its use. Cyclosporine is available in 2 oral formulations: the original oil-based formulation and the more commonly used ultramicronized emulsion that facilitates oral absorption. Ultramicronized cyclosporine is available as an approved animal product, and human proprietary and generic preparations are also available. Bioavailability of the different formulations in dogs is likely to vary among the preparations. Cyclosporine is associated with a large number of drug interactions that can also influence blood cyclosporine concentrations. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) can be used to assist in attaining consistent plasma cyclosporine concentrations despite the effects of varying bioavailability and drug interactions. TDM can facilitate therapeutic success by guiding dose adjustments on an individualized basis, and is recommended in cases that do not respond to initial oral dosing, or during treatment of severe, life-threatening diseases for which a trial-and-error approach to dose adjustment is too risky. Pharmacodynamic assays that evaluate individual patient immune responses to cyclosporine can be used to augment information provided by TDM.
Gene therapy delivery of endostatin enhances the treatment efficacy of radiation

Abstract Background and purpose : To evaluate whether sustained expression of mouse endostatin by adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene transfer can enhance the treatment efficacy of ionizing radiation. Materials and methods : Mouse endostatin was cloned into recombinant AAV (rAAV) under the control of CMV β-actin promoter. Recombinant mouse endostatin expressed via AAV gene transfer was tested for biological activity in endothelial cells. The impact of elevated serum levels of endostatin on tumor-induced angiogenesis was evaluated using an in vivo angiogenesis assay. The anti-tumor efficacy of combining rAAV-mediated endostatin delivery with radiation was evaluated in a human colorectal tumor model (HT29). Results : Recombinant mouse endostatin expressed through an AAV vector (rAAV-mEndo) inhibited endothelial cell proliferation (by 40–45%) and migration (by 22–33%). Intramuscular injection of rAAV-mEndo (1×10 9 i.u.) led to a sustained serum endostatin level of ∼500 ng/ml. Compared to control animals this endostatin level was sufficient to inhibit tumor cell-induced vessel formation (37 vs. 28.5, P 3 , 21 vs. 34.5 days, P 3 (radiation, 34 days; endostatin plus radiation, 50 days, P Conclusion : The delivery of endostatin via rAAV vectors may provide an effective means of enhancing the anti-tumor efficacy of radiation therapy.
Inflammatory communicating hydrocele

Abstract A case of acute scrotal swelling after appendectomy is described. Differential diagnosis of an acute scrotal swelling is reviewed.
Impact of BTI on random logic circuit critical timing

Using a newly developed single transistor eye-diagram method, we examined the effect of BTI stress on logic circuit critical timing under a realistic bit pattern (pseudo random). We demonstrated that the recoverable part of the BTI degradation produce significant timing skew that is random in nature. This random timing skew is in addition to the systematic timing degradation captured in measurements using ring oscillator circuits. The size of this random skew is very large and can be a serious problem for logic circuit under tight timing budget. This effect has not been known before and therefore not accounted for in any of the proposed circuit methodology to mitigate BTI effects.
Superplasticity in an Ni3Al base alloy with 8wt% Cr

A maximum superplastic elongation of 638% has been obtained in a fine-grained Ni3Al-based intermetallic alloy containing 8wt% Cr. The extent of superplasticity obtained is dependent on the heat treatment given to the alloy, the test temperature and the strain rate. The activation energy of deformation and the value for the strain rate sensitivity parameter were comparable to those noted earlier in metallurgical alloy systems. There was some evidence that dynamic recrystallization plays a role in determining the extent of cavitation in the grain sized encountered here.
It is not for fun: An examination of social network site usage

Social networking sites (SNS) have become a significant component of people's daily lives and have revolutionized the ways that business is conducted, from product development and marketing to operation and human resource management. However, there have been few systematic studies that ask why people use such systems. To try to determine why, we proposed a model based on uses and gratifications theory. Hypotheses were tested using PLS on data collected from 148 SNS users. We found that user utilitarian (rational and goal-oriented) gratifications of immediate access and coordination, hedonic (pleasure-oriented) gratifications of affection and leisure, and website social presence were positive predictors of SNS usage. While prior research focused on the hedonic use of SNS, we explored the predictive value of utilitarian factors in SNS. Based on these findings, we suggest a need to focus on the SNS functionalities to provide users with both utilitarian and hedonic gratifications, and suggest incorporating appropriate website features to help users evoke a sense of human contact in the SNS context.
Urban energy mining from municipal solid waste (MSW) via the enhanced thermo–chemical process by carbon dioxide (CO2) as a reaction medium

Abstract The enhanced gasification of municipal solid waste (MSW) using carbon dioxide (CO2) as the gasification medium was investigated to achieve environmentally benign and energy efficient ways for the disposal of MSW. Two main steps of thermal decomposition of MSW were observed. The first thermal degradation step occurs at temperature between 280 and 350 °C and consists of the decomposition of the biomass component into light C1–3-hydrocarbons. The second thermal degradation step occurs between 380 and 450 °C and is mainly attributed to polymer components, such as plastics and rubber, in MSW. To extend this understanding to a more practical level, MSW samples were tested in a drop tube reactor (DTR) at a temperature range from 500 to 1000 °C under various atmospheres with CO2 concentrations of 0–30%. The release of major chemical species from the DTR has been determined using a micro-GC. For example, CO (∼30%), H2 (∼25%) and CH4 (∼10%) were generated.
Calmodulin-mediated cadmium inhibition of phosphodiesterase activity, in vitro

Ion-stripped bovine brain calmodulin (CaM) binds 4 moles Cd2+ as well as 4 moles Ca2+ per mole protein, with similar affinity; in the presence of 1 mM Mg2+ the molar binding ratio of CaM for Ca2+ decreased to 3, the apparent K0.5 for Ca2+ nearly doubled, but the binding characteristics of CaM for Cd2+ were not changed. Saturating concentrations Ca2+ did not affect the molar binding ratio of CaM for Cd2+, but increased the apparent K0.5 for Cd2+; vice versa, saturating concentrations Cd2+ decreased the molar binding ratio for Ca2+ to 2 without affecting the apparent K0.5 for Ca2+. CaM-independent phosphodiesterase (PDE) activity was inhibited at [Cd2+]>10−5 M. Cd2+-CaM as well as Ca2+-CaM activated PDE. However, the Cd2+-CaM complex is less effective than the Ca2+-CaM complex in stimulating CaM-dependent enzyme activities. Cd2+ inhibits Ca2+- and CaM-dependent PDE in a competitive way. Introduction of Cd2+ in a medium containing Ca2+ and CaM may, therefore, result in a reduction of CaM-dependent enzyme stimulation. By its interference with Ca2+- and CaM- dependent PDE activity, Cd2+ could upset the catabolic pathway of cellular cyclic nucleotide metabolism.
Interacting with audio streams for entertainment and communication

We present a new model of interactive audio for entertainment and communication. A new device called the DJammer and its associated technologies are described. The DJammer introduces the idea of provisioning mobile users to interact cooperatively with digital audio streams. Users can augment the audio in real time and communicate the result in several ways resulting in a new form of multimedia communication across diverse devices and multiple networks. This paper describes the technologies incorporated into the DJammer, and discusses the actual implementation of the prototype DJammer. Future enhancements are also described.
The Contribution of Vascular Smooth Muscle to Aortic Stiffness Across Length Scales

The operation of the cardiovascular system in health and disease is inherently mechanical. Clinically, aortic stiffness has proven to be of critical importance as an early biomarker for subsequent cardiovascular disease; however, the mechanisms involved in aortic stiffening are still unclear. The etiology of aortic stiffening with age has been thought to primarily involve changes in extracellular matrix protein composition and quantity, but recent studies suggest a significant involvement of the differentiated contractile vascular smooth muscle cells in the vessel wall. Here, we provide an overview of vascular physiology and biomechanics at different spatial scales. The processes involved in aortic stiffening are examined with particular attention given to recent discoveries regarding the role of vascular smooth muscle.
Low-frequency pulsations in a He-Xe laser with several transverse modes: Experimental and numerical studies

Spatial pattern pulsations are observed at frequencies much less than the intermode beat frequencies in a He-Xe laser operating at 3.51 \ensuremath{\mu}m. Numerical studies indicate that such low-frequency pulsations can arise from secondary beat notes between the frequencies of unequally spaced modes. The decay rate of the active medium is an important parameter which sets the scale for mode pulling without locking, which leads to these pulsations.
Endothelial cell associated anti-elastolytic activity

Addition of cultured and then carefully-washed bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells (EC) decreased (p < 0.05) human neutrophil elastase activity (HNE) in vitro. HNE activity was also decreased (p < 0.05) by addition of histone or protamine treated EC. However, addition of papain or trypsin treated EC decreased HNE activity less than addition of untreated cells suggesting that a protein rather than a difference in cell surface charge was responsible. Other observations suggest that EC anti-elastolytic activity was not due to binding of antiprotease from culture media but was dependent on EC protein synthesis. First, addition of EC grown previously in serum-free media decreased HNE activity the same (p < 0.05) as addition of EC cultured in media containing serum. Second, addition of EC treated beforehand with cycloheximide decreased HNE activity less than (p < 0.05) addition of untreated control EC. We conclude that EC most likely make and have antielastolytic activity on their surfaces and speculate that EC associated anti-elastolytic activity may modulate inflammatory, repair and other biologic processes involving neutrophil elastase.
Structured laboratory observation in the behavioral assessment of parent-child interactions: A methodological critique

Structured observation situations have been frequently used in the behavioral assessment of parent-child interaction. These assessment situations have been used to assess the effects of behavioral intervention, to design behavioral intervention strategies, and as a method of assessing interaction differences between classes of subjects (e.g., clinic vs nonclinic subjects). This paper reviews the target subjects, target behaviors, structure, and observation procedures of structured observation situations and considers methodological issues such as content validity, criterion-related validity, and threats to validity.
Usefulness of Cdx2 in Separating Mucinous Bronchioloalveolar Adenocarcinoma of the Lung From Metastatic Mucinous Colorectal Adenocarcinoma

We studied the diagnostic value of Cdx2 to distinguish mucinous bronchioloalveolar carcinoma from mucinous colorectal adenocarcinoma metastatic to the lung. We retrieved 92 via the hospital computer system, including 30 mucinous bronchioloalveolar carcinomas, 32 nonmucinous bronchioloalveolar carcinomas, and 30 mucinous colorectal adenocarcinomas metastatic to the lung. All cases were confirmed by clinical history and surgical resection with occasional immunohistochemical studies. Cases were stained with antibodies against Cdx2, thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1), cytokeratin (CK) 7, and CK20. Bronchioloalveolar carcinoma, mucinous type, showed positive staining for Cdx2, TTF-1, CK7, and CK20 in 0 (0%), 5 (17%), 30 (100%), and 18 (60%) of 30 cases, respectively; nonmucinous tumors were positive in 0 (0%), 30 (94%), 32 (100%), and 0 (0%) of 32 cases, respectively. For colorectal adenocarcinoma, the positive staining for Cdx-2, TTF-1, CK7, and CK20 was 29 (97%), 0 (0%), 7 (23%), and 29 (97%) of 30 cases, respectively. Our results demonstrated Cdx2 as a sensitive and specific marker for differentiating metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma from mucinous bronchioloalveolar adenocarcinoma.
Cracking the plaster cast: Big five personality change during intensive outpatient counseling.

This study attempted to evaluate the ability of an outpatient drug rehabilitation program to effect significant shifts on the five major dimensions of personality. A mostly African American sample of 82 men and 50 women entering a 6-week program were assessed at admission, and the 99 who completed were again measured at termination. Follow-up assessments were completed on 30 clients an average of 15 months later. Results indicated significant shifts on all five personality domains from pre- to posttreatment (mean Cohen's d = .38). Significant shifts on Neuroticism, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness were maintained over follow-up (mean Cohen's d = .28). These results suggest that personality change may be possible in the context of treatment.