cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparing Estimates of Fall-Related Mortality Incidence Among Older Adults in the United States.

Background Falls are the leading cause of injury-related mortality among older adults in the United States, but incidence and risk factors for fall-related mortality remain poorly understood. This study compared fall-related mortality incidence rate estimates from a nationally representative cohort with those from a national vital record database and identified correlates of fall-related mortality. Methods Cause-of-death data from the National Death Index (NDI; 1999-2011) were linked with eight waves from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a representative cohort of U.S. older adults (N = 20,639). Weighted fall-related mortality incidence rates were calculated and compared with estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) vital record data. Fall-related deaths were identified using International Classification of Diseases (Version 10) codes. Person-time at risk was calculated from HRS entry until death or censoring. Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify individual-level factors associated with fall-related deaths. Results The overall incidence rate of fall-related mortality was greater in HRS-NDI data (51.6 deaths per 100,000; 95% confidence interval: 42.04, 63.37) compared with CDC data (42.00 deaths per 100,000; 95% confidence interval: 41.80, 42.19). Estimated differences between the two data sources were greater for men and adults aged 85 years and older. Greater age, male gender, and self-reported fall history were identified as independent risk factors for fall-related mortality. Conclusion Incidence rates based on aggregate vital records may substantially underestimate the occurrence of and risk for fall-related mortality differentially in men, minorities, and relatively younger adults. Cohort-based estimates of individual fall-related mortality risk are important supplements to vital record estimates.
CHANGES IN CARDIOVASCULAR BIOMARKERS WITH BREAST CANCER THERAPY AND ASSOCIATIONS WITH CARDIAC DYSFUNCTION

There is a critical need to understand the role of biomarkers in the surveillance of cardiac dysfunction in patients treated with cardiotoxic cancer therapy. We aimed to determine the longitudinal associations between changes in biomarkers and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and cancer
Prognostic significance of PD-L1 and TLR5 expression in peripheral T-cell lymphomas.

The tumor microenvironment (TME) constitutes a host of immune regulatory cells and their mediators that influence the intricate balance between the antitumor immunity and the intratumoral immune su...
Keratinocyte-derived TGFβ is not required to maintain skin immune homeostasis.

Abstract Background Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ) is known to be a regulator of autoimmunity. Loss of TGFβ leads to severe multi-organ autoimmunity in mice. In skin, role of TGFβ in suppressing autoimmunity is unclear. Objective Determine whether Keratinocyte (KC)-derived TGFβ is required for skin immune homeostasis. Methods We generated K14-CreER T2 TGFβ1 fl/fl ( TGFβ ΔKC ) mice allowing for tamoxifen-induced deletion of TGFβ1 in KC. The phenotype of skin was analyzed and compared to mice in which epidermal activation of TGFβ is impaired. Results KC was the major source of TGFβ in epidermis. Topical tamoxifen application led to efficient TGFβ1 deletion. The expected acanthosis was observed but no inflammatory infiltrate or altered numbers of resident immune cells were evident. Similarly, Itgb6 −/− x K14Cre Itgb8 f/f ( Itgb6 −/− Itgb8 ΔKC ) mice lacking both epidermal TGFβ-activating integrins showed no evidence of cutaneous inflammation. Conclusions KC-derived TGFβ and epidermal TGFβ activation are not required to suppress skin autoimmunity in steady state.
Association for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Issues in Counseling’s Best Practices in Addressing Conscience Clause Legislation in Counselor Education and Supervision

The amount of various, state-level legislation allowing the denial of counseling services to individuals with values that conflict with those of the professional counselor continues to increase. Su...
Relationships Between Estimated Hourly Energy Balance and Body Composition in Professional Cheerleaders

We sought to describe and examine the interrelationships between energy intake, body composition, and estimated energy balance. Using self-reported hourly food intake and formula-based energy expenditure (EE) protocols, 19 female professional cheerleaders (mean age 25.4 years) were assessed to obtain energy balance (EB) for a typical training day. Energy intake (EI) was predicted using the USDA Food Composition Database SR27, and EE was predicted using the Harris-Benedict equation plus a MET-based relative intensity activity scale. Body composition was predicted using a multi-current, 8-mode segmental bioelectrical impedance analysis system. Hourly and daily EB was calculated from EI and EE data. Subjects reported a 24 h EI significantly below (P < 0.001) the unadjusted predicted energy requirement (1482 kcal vs. 2199 kcal, respectively), resulting in an average negative net EB of − 720 kcal. Carbohydrate intake was significantly below the minimum recommended level (3.1 g/kg vs. 6 g/kg, P < 0.001) while protein and fat intakes met the recommended levels. Higher fat intake (g/kg) was significantly associated with a higher EI kcal/kg (r = 0.726; P < 0.001), which was significantly associated (r = − 0.55; P = 0.01) with a lower body fat percent (BF%). Using the median of BF% (20.9) as the cut point, participants with fewer hours in a negative EB had lower BF% (P = 0.043) and those with lower BF% spent more time in an EB of ± 300 kcal (P = 0.013). These athletes reported low energy intakes that resulted in large EB deficits and/or more hours in a negative EB, which could be counterproductive for achieving a lean body composition overtime.
An examination of individual forms of nonsuicidal self-injury

Abstract Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a growing public health concern, and there is an increasing need to better characterize and identify severe NSSI behavior. One readily accessible, yet understudied, avenue for improving the assessment of NSSI severity is through the examination of individual forms, or methods, of the behavior. The present study aimed to address this gap in the literature by investigating the relationship between 12 different NSSI methods with three NSSI severity indicators and three distinct suicidal thoughts and behaviors among 1,436 undergraduate students with a history of NSSI (70.90% female, M age = 20.69, SD = 3.32). Results across six decision tree analyses highlighted the use self-hitting / punching, in addition to cutting oneself, as the most informative NSSI methods for differentiating outcome severity. Gender differences were only found for the outcome of suicidal ideation. The present study provides preliminary evidence that the examination of individual NSSI methods may be useful in identifying individuals at risk for negative correlates of NSSI, including NSSI-related hospital visits, unintended serious injury, and suicidal behavior. Upon replication in longitudinal work, findings have important clinical utility by providing a potential marker of prognosis and the need for higher levels of care.
Fine structure of pancreatic islets of mice infected with the M variant of the encephalomyocarditis virus

Seventy-seven male, 12 to 16 week old CD-1 mice were injected subcutaneously with the M variant of the enoephalomyocarditis (EMC) virus. Thirteen saline-injected mice served as controls. The 45 surviving virus-injected mice were sacrificed at intervals ranging from 24 h to 15 days following injection. Blood glucose values were distinctly elevated during the first 2 days and again between the seventh and fifteenth day of the experiment. Immunoassay of pancreatic tissue revealed a lowering of the mean insulin concentration to one half of that of the control mice. Pancreas suspensions assayed for the presence of virus 21/2 to 91/2 days after infection yielded significant titers as determined by cytopathic effect. No morphologic changes were detected during the first 2 days after virus injection. Thereafter, disruption of islet cell architecture, B cell necrosis, B cell degranulation, and mononuclear cell infiltrates were noted by light microscopy. Ultrastructurally, disruption of nuclear material, dilatation of the perinuclear space, and the appearance of cytoplasmic vesicles filled with fine granular substance were seen in B cells during the early phase of the experiment. Histiocytic response and removal of damaged B cells was prompt. Crystalline viral arrays were not identified. Poor granulation and dilatation of the units of the endoplasmic reticulum were noted in many surviving B cells. Damage to exocrine acinar cells was of limited extent. No salivary gland lesions were identified.
Ultrasonic acoustic deterrents significantly reduce bat fatalities at wind turbines

Abstract Wind turbines are known to cause bat fatalities worldwide. Ultrasonic acoustic deterrents are a potential solution to reduce impacts on bats, but few experimental field studies have been conducted at utility scale wind energy facilities. Our objective was to assess effectiveness of a recently developed deterrent for reducing bat fatalities at wind turbines in southern Texas, USA. We quantified fatalities at control (deterrents off) and treatment (deterrents on) wind turbines from 31 July through 30 October in 2017 and 2018, and assessed deterrent effectiveness using generalized linear mixed models. Our results indicate deterrents significantly reduced bat fatalities for Lasiurus cinereus and Tadarida brasiliensis by 78% and 54%, respectively. We observed no significant reduction in fatalities for other species in the genus Lasiurius. Thus, deterrents represent a potential impact reduction strategy for some bat species, but research is still warranted to improve species-specific effectiveness.
Etiology of hand, foot and mouth disease in 253 children in Huizhou during the period of 2009 to 2011

Objective To investigate the pathogens and prevalence of hand-foot-mouth disease (HFMD) in Huizhou during 2009 to 2011.Methods 253 specimens were collected from the children with HFMD and then were detected using fluorescence quantitative PCR.Some samples with positive results were typed by gene sequencing.Results 156 of 253 samples were PE positive.41 of the 156 samples were CoxA16 and 92 were EV71.CoxA16 (69％) was the major pathogen in 2009,while EV71 was prevalent in 2010 and 2011 (78.1％ and 67.5％,respectively).The types of EV71 were EV71-C4a for 30 and ECHO3 for 2.The positive rate of intestinal virus accounted for 93.5％ (146/156) in children aged less than 6 and was 73.0％(114/156) in those aged less than 3.Conclusions CoxA16 is the major pathogen for hand-food-mouth disease in 2009 and EV71 is the predominant pathogen in 2010 and 2011.EV71-C4a is the main type of EV71 in the past three years in Huizhou.Children younger than 3 are at high risk for EV71 infection.Prevention and control of hand-foot-mouth disease in summer and fall is a necessity. Key words: Hand-foot-mouth disease; EV71 ; CoxA 16; Pathogen
Spontaneous subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum in non-intubated patients with COVID-19.

Abstract Purpose We describe the presenting characteristics and hospital course of 11 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) patients who developed spontaneous subcutaneous emphysema (SE) with or without pneumomediastinum (SPM) in the absence of prior mechanical ventilation. Materials and methods A total of 11 non-intubated COVID-19 patients (8 male and 3 female, median age 61 years) developed SE and SPM between March 15 and April 30, 2020 at a multi-center urban health system in New York City. Demographics (age, gender, smoking status, comorbid conditions, and body-mass index), clinical variables (temperature, oxygen saturation, and symptoms), and laboratory values (white blood cell count, C-reactive protein, D-dimer, and peak interleukin-6) were collected. Chest radiography (CXR) and computed tomography (CT) were analyzed for SE, SPM, and pneumothorax by a board-certified cardiothoracic-fellowship trained radiologist. Results Eleven non-intubated patients developed SE, 36% (4/11) of whom had SE on their initial CXR. Concomitant SPM was apparent in 91% (10/11) of patients, and 45% (5/11) also developed pneumothorax. Patients developed SE on average 13.3 days (SD: 6.3) following symptom onset. No patients reported a history of smoking. The most common comorbidities included hypertension (6/11), diabetes mellitus (5/11), asthma (3/11), dyslipidemia (3/11), and renal disease (2/11). Four (36%) patients expired during hospitalization. Conclusion SE and SPM were observed in a cohort of 11 non-intubated COVID-19 patients without any known cause or history of invasive ventilation. Further investigation is required to elucidate the underlying mechanism in this patient population.
Analysis of epidemiological serosurvey of hepatitis B virus among people under 29 years of age in Jiangsu Province, China.

Background: The purpose of this paper was to analyze the prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs), and hepatitis B core anti-body (anti-HBc)in1-29 ...
Topical therapy for atopic dermatitis: A review

Background: Pediatric atopic dermatitis(AD) is very common, but its management is frustrating for the dermatologist, child and parents alike as this chronic inflammatory skin disease is marked with numerous difficult to control flares. Although country specific guidelines for AD exist, there is paucity of data with respect to dedicated topical care regimens for AD management in pediatric population. Purpose: This is a broad based review exploring various topical practices and management options to manage pediatric AD during flares and in remissions. Scope: The PubMed database was searched (to 1 June 2020) for English-language articles containing the keywords atopic dermatitis, atopic eczema, topical calcineurin inhibitor(TCI), topical corticosteroid(TCS), topical phosphodiesterase inhibitors, crisaborole, topical therapy. Articles focusing on topical managment for children with AD were chosen for further review. A limitation is that this is not a systematic review of the literature. We have relied heavily on The Indian Dermatology Expert Board Members 2019 Management Guidelines on AD and the 2014 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) guidelines, soon to be updated. In our review, we focus on Skin directed therapies to repair and maintain healthy skin barrier, suppress inflammatory response, control flares, control itch and manage infectious triggers. Topicals can be used as first line therapy in mild AD, adjuvant for moderate-severe AD or as maintenance to keep the disease in remission. Topical therapy in AD is not limited to TCS, TCI, Crisaborole or newer molecules but also involves moisturization, emollient care and bathing practices; which have been discussed. Conclusion: Multiple topical therapies and practices have been successfully used to treat children with AD. An understanding of the available treatment options will help dermatologists striving to achieve best practice in the management of pediatric AD.
Simulation to Improve the Capabilities of Individuals

Healthcare is delivered in complex systems that contain numerous teams, each composed of individuals with unique funds of knowledge, technical skills, and behaviors. Simulation is used to develop and refine the capabilities of individuals in order to optimize their ability to fulfill their roles and responsibilities, allowing them to enhance team capabilities and, in turn, system performance. Using a Functional Analysis Systems Technique (FAST) diagram as the foundation of this chapter, we identify simulation as a “how” and improving patient outcomes as the “why” for an effective healthcare system, aiding the reader in understanding how simulation can be an effective tool for developing and enhancing the skills of individual practitioners.
Interplay between Brownian motion and cross-linking kinetics controls bundling dynamics in actin networks

Morphology changes in cross-linked actin networks are important in cell motility, division, and cargo transport. Here we study the transition from a weakly cross-linked network of actin filaments to a heavily cross-linked network of actin bundles through microscopic Brownian dynamics simulations. We show that this transition occurs in two phases: first, a composite bundle network of small and highly aligned bundles evolves from cross linking of individual filaments; second, small bundles coalesce into the clustered bundle state. We demonstrate that Brownian motion speeds up the first phase of this process at a faster rate than the second. We quantify the time to reach the composite bundle phase and show that it is a strong function of mesh size only when the concentration of cross links is small, and that it remains roughly constant if we decrease the relative ratio of cross linkers as we increase the actin concentration. Finally, we examine the dependence of the bundling timescale on filament length, finding that shorter filaments bundle faster because they diffuse faster.
Metrology Potential of Scanning Laser Acoustic Microscopes Using Surface Acoustic Waves

The use of surface acoustic wave insonification in a scanning laser acoustic microscope (SLAM) for the quantitative characterization (metrology) of the mechanical properties of the surface/near-surface of a material or of a thin film deposited on a known substrate is discussed. Quantitative measurements of the mass-loading effects of a 5000 angstrom thick tungsten film on a lithium niobate surface wave delay line were obtained at 100 MHz which agreed with theoretical values. Measurements of the SAW velocity as a function of crystalline orientation on lithium niobate were also obtained. The potential of the SLAM for vertical (depth) profiling of mechanical properties using the dispersion of the surface wave velocity as the surface wave insonification frequency is varied is discussed. Methods of easily launching surface waves on nonpiezoelectric materials without requiring special sample preparation so that these potential capabilities can be applied to a wide range of samples is discussed.
Regulation of glutamate dehydrogenases during morphogenesis of Schizophyllum commune

The specific activities of two glutamate dehydrogenases (GDH), one requiring nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and the other specific for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP), varied during growth of Schizophyllum commune as a function of the stage of the life cycle and the exogenous nitrogen source. During basidiospore germination on either glucose-NH(3) or glucose-glutamate medium, NADP-GDH increased six- to eightfold in specific activity, whereas NAD-GDH was depressed. During dikaryotic mycelial growth on either nitrogen source, the two GDH increased in a 1:1 ratio, whereas, during homokaryotic mycelial growth on glucose-NH(3), NADP-GDH activity was depressed and NAD-GDH increased six- to eightfold. Homokaryotic mycelium cultured on glucose-glutamate medium yielded high NADP-GDH activities and normal NAD-GDH activities. Intracellular NH(3) concentration and NADP-GDH activities were inversely related during spore germination and homokaryotic mycelium growth, whereas guanosine-5'-triphosphate (GTP) and l-glutamine specifically inhibited NAD- and NADP-GDH respectively in vitro. GTP inhibition was shown in extracts from cells at all stages of the life cycle. Basidiospore germling extracts contained an NADP-GDH essentially resistant to l-glutamine inhibition.
Parallel algorithms for ranking of trees

Ranking a tree is defined as a mapping rho of the nodes to the set (1, 2, . . .) such that if there is a path from u to v and rho (u)= rho (v) then there is a node w on the path from u to v such that rho (w)> rho (u). The highest number assigned to the node is called the rank number of the mapping. A mapping rho with the smallest rank number is called optimal ranking. The best known serial algorithm takes O(n) time for the optimal node ranking. However, the problem of finding the optimal tree ranking appears to be highly sequential. It remains open whether it is in NC. The paper proposes a fast parallel algorithm for finding approximate optimal node ranking of trees using O(logn) steps with n/sup 2/ processors on a CRCW PRAM and an efficient parallel algorithm using O(log/sup 2/n) steps with n processors on a EREW model. >
Enantioselective Syntheses of Plate Let‐Activating Factor and a Phospholipase A2 Inhibitor from Chiral Synthons Prepared Enzymatically

Efficient procedures have been developed for the stereospecific syntheses of platelet-activating factor and its 2-acetamido analog, an inhibitor of phospholipase A2. (S)-3-O-Actyl-2-O-benzylglycerol and (S)-2-N-benzyloxycarbonyl-3-O-valerylserinol are used as starting materials for the syntheses. Both chiral synthons are prepared from lipase-catalyzed acetylation and hydrolysis of the corresponding meso precursors.
Development and application of the incident command tool for drinking water protection

The Incident Command Tool for Drinking Water Protection (ICWater) provides real-time assessments of the travel and dispersion of contaminants in streams and rivers. It is structured around the RiverSpill model which has been enhanced to make use of the 1:100 000 scale National Hydrography Dataset Plus, Version 1.0 (NHDPlusV1). NHDPlusV1 is a hydrologically connected river network that contains over 3 million reach segments in the United States. This allows for both downstream and upstream tracing (which serves in forensic analysis). Mean flow and velocity have been calculated by the US Geological Survey (USGS) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for each reach. These mean values are updated by flow from web accessible real-time gauging stations. Example databases available within ICWater include: dams, reservoirs, water supplies, gauges, municipal and industrial dischargers and transportation networks. A contaminant database is also included which identifies biological, chemical and radiological contaminants and their toxicities. Navigating the river network upstream coupled with mass-balance calculations from breakthrough curves allows for backtracking of the contamination to determine the origin and source strength.
Deconstructing violence: press coverage of the LAPD/Rodney King beating and first trial

This article examines The New York Times' and the Washington Post's coverage of the Los Angeles police beating of African-American motorist Rodney King, and of the subsequent initial trial of four ...
Intestinal Microflora in Patients with Alcoholic Cirrhosis: Urea-Splitting Bacteria and Neomycin Resistance

The microflora of the small and large bowel was studied in 24 patients with biopsy-proved alcoholic cirrhosis. Urea-splitting bacteria were found in 21 patients (88%); these strains were Klebsiella in 19 cases and Proteus in 2. Abnormal colonization of the upper small bowel was seen in 12 patients, including 6 with urea-splitting bacteria. A "control" group of 9 hospitalized patients without liver impairment also had a high incidence of colonization of the bowel by urea-splitting Klebsiella (5 cases, 56%); 4 of these 9 patients had upper small bowel contamination with Klebsiella. Neomycin-resistant Klebsiella were present in 3 patients with cirrhosis (14%). An additional patient studied while receiving neomycin had luxuriant growth of resistant Klebsiella in the ileum and stool. These studies indicate that the gastrointestinal tract of patients with cirrhosis is frequently colonized by urea-splitting bacteria which in some individuals may be resistant to neomycin. While these findings are not specific for cirrhosis, they have enhanced significance in patients with liver failure.
Principal component analysis of multigated cardiac bloodpool studies and correction of count-deficient frames

The multigated cardiac bloodpool study is a nuclear medicine procedure that produces a movie loop of the contents of the chambers of the beating heart. The nature of the acquisition of data results in noisy studies that can have underexposed frames late in the cardiac cycle. These darker frames produce a "flashing" effect that disturbs visual interpretation The present means of correcting this problem distort the data in the study. We have used principal component analysis to correct the count deficiency of the last frames of the cardiac movie loop without distorting the temporal information in the study or degrading the visual signal-to-noise ratio. An initial evaluation of twenty cases yielded complete correction of the "flashing" effect and produced visually more pleasing datasets. Application of standard quantitative analysis methods demonstrated no difference in the clinical parameters such as the ejection fraction.
Mechanisms and algorithms for large-scale replication systems

Replication of data and services is a fundamental building block in the design of distributed systems. Though replication has several benefits for large-scale systems distributed across wide-area networks, it also introduces considerable complexity over a centralized unreplicated system. This thesis contributes mechanisms and algorithms that enable the design of simpler and more efficient large-scale replicated systems. On the mechanism front, we present aggressive speculative replication (ASR) as a basic primitive in building large-scale replicated systems. ASR refers to aggressively trading-off costs of hardware resources for making replicas of content and updates in a speculative manner in return for savings in human time and improved service quality. Today, replicated systems are unable to avail of the benefits of ASR as current architectures rely on manually-tuned parameters to manage the complexity of large-scale replicated systems. Consequently, such systems are hard to build and maintain, inefficient in utilizing available resources, and prone to the risk of overload. As a solution, we present an architecture, Mars, that performs ASR in a self-tuning manner, i.e. without the need for manual tuning. To enable realization of Mars' architecture in practical systems, we build TCP Nice, an end-to-end transport protocol for background transfers. We demonstrate the benefits of Mars through a case study of a Web prefetching system, NPS, and show that the Mars approach simplifies the design, efficiently uses available resources to give performance benefits, is robust to the risk of system overload, and is easily deployable without changing existing infrastructure by using only simple end-to-end mechanisms. On the algorithmic front, we make three contributions. First, we present a speculative replication algorithm, namely, long-term prefetching, to minimize average response times at a large cache constrained by bandwidth and validate its effectiveness through simulations using Web traces. Next, we develop a speculative replication algorithm for minimizing response times in a set of hierarchically-organized distributed cooperating caches constrained by bandwidth, and show that it is constant-competitive. Finally, we study the theoretically intriguing problem of minimizing average response times in a set of hierarchically-organized distributed cooperating caches constrained by storage space and show a nonconstant lower bound on the competitive ratio of any online algorithm that is allowed at most a constant-factor space advantage.
The usability of end user cryptographic products

Cryptography is an indispensable tool for securing data and for ensuring the privacy of communications such as web browsing and email. Although there are many practical utilities which can encrypt disks, file systems, and emails, these utilities are still not widely adopted by end users. One intention of cryptographic utilities is to enhance the confidentiality of information. From the security practitioner's point of view, cryptography is a must for protecting sensitive data. System administrators and technical savvy people not only think many existing cryptography products are useful but also usable, at least to some extent. However, when viewed by majority of end users who do not have the technical background on cryptography, key and password management, authentication, and the complexity for using cryptography products can be the hurdles for making these utilities usable. This paper studies free and low-cost cryptographic products including encrypted flash drives, hard drives, file systems, and email systems to assess their usability. We also make recommendations for usable end-user cryptography.
The effect of oxygen on CO2 fixation by mesophyll protoplast extracts of C3 and C4 plants

Abstract Oxygen inhibits CO2 fixation by mesophyll protoplast extracts of the C3 plants, Hordeum vulgare and Triticum aestivum , but stimulates the pyruvate induced CO2 fixation by mesophyll protoplast extracts of the C4 plants Digitaria sanguinalis and Urochloa panicoides . The former is reversed by increased levels of bicarbonate, whereas the latter effect is independent of bicarbonate concentration. The results are consistent with the proposal that oxygen inhibits C3 photosynthesis by competing with CO2 in the RuDP carboxylase/oxygenase system. The oxygen enhancement of C4 mesophyll photosynthesis is proposed to be due to pseudocyclic electron flow supplying additional ATP for the CO2 fixation process.
Discourse analysis of communicative disorders

Abstract This paper is an application of recent discourse theory to the analysis of discourse produced by individuals diagnosed to have communicative disorders. Specifics of discourse theory are discussed; namely, event and non-event structure; temporal structure; reference scope; rhetorical predicate structure (all taken from the work of Grimes and Meyer). These specifics are, then, used in the analysis of discourse of frontal lobe aphasics and a learning disabled patient. The analysis reveals similar discrepancies in the discourse of each individual: lack of control over covariance rhetorical predicates (which serve to propagate normal discourse fluently) and lack of control over scope. These findings correlate with the general cognitive problems of each of the individuals producing the discourses in that the frontal lobe aphasics and the learning disabled patient in this study were diagnosed as having problems in cognitive control.
Further analysis of the system of CuOH and CuOD

Abstract The B 1 A″- X 1 A′ perpendicular system of CuOH and CuOD in the green was first measured and analyzed by Trkula and Harris for K′a ≤ 1 (J. Chem. Phys., 79, 1138–1144 (1983)). We have extended their measurements up to K′a = 9 and K′a = 12 for CuOH and CuOD, respectively, and completed a distortion analysis for both electronic states. Extensive perturbations were observed for K′a ≥ 2 in CuOH, and these are suspected to arise from interaction with the OH stretch of a lower-lying triplet state. An improved partial rs structure for the molecute was also evaluated for both electronic states. The ground state geometric parameters are r CuO = 1.76893(25) A , r OH = 0.9520(50) A , and ∠CuOH = 110.245(80)°.
Adequacy of classical inverse bremsstrahlung theory for low-temperature plasmas

Recent improvements in diagnostic and computation techniques have made it possible to conduct sensitive experiments on plasma heating and thermal conductivity. The adequacy of classical absorption theory for low‐temperature (T<20 eV) subcritical density experiments is examined.
Effects of pyridoxine and desoxypyridoxine on magnesium metabolism in the rabbit.

SummaryExternal balance studies for magnesium and isotopic determinations of exchangeable magnesium content of body were made in 8 adult male rabbits before and after 8 daily injections of pyridoxine (100 mg), and in another group of 8 rabbits before and after 6 daily injections of desoxypyridoxine, 40 mg/kg. Except for increase in mean body weight in the group receiving pyridoxine, no significant changes were observed. In 8 animals given 2 intravenous injections of pyridoxine (100 mg) 24 hours apart, relative tissue activity of Mg28 was increased in appendix and heart. In 15 rabbits given desoxypyridoxine, 40 mg/kg, daily for 7 days, there was a significant decrease in relative activity of kidney, lung, and bone, and a significant increase in serum magnesium concentration. The results suggest that excess or deficiency of pyridoxine alters rate of uptake of Mg28 by various tissues.Mg28 was supplied by Brookhaven National Lab. on allocation from U. S. Atomic Energy Comm.
Costs and benefits of selected response inducement techniques in mail survey research

Abstract In this paper, the results of a study designed to evaluate the costs and benefits of selected response inducement techniques in mail survey research are reported. Traditionally, survey researchers have considered only the response rates obtained from different inducements without incorporating costs. Four response inducement techniques that have consistently improved response rates were compared on the basis of their relative contributions to response rate improvements and the per response cost of each. A methodology for evaluating the cost impact of various response inducements is developed along with an analysis of the cost of various inducements.
KATP channel activation mediates nicorandil-induced relaxation of nitrate-tolerant coronary arteries.

We compared the tolerance-inducing effects of nitroglycerin (NTG) and nicorandil (NIC) in porcine isolated coronary arteries and assessed the role of K ATP channels in the response to NIC in nitrate-tolerant and nontolerant preparations. In coronary arteries contracted with U46619 (1-3 x 10 -9 M), NTG, NIC, sodium nitroprusside (SNP), and cromakalim produced concentration-dependent relaxations. The rank order of potency was NTG ≥ SNP > cromakalim > nicorandil. Exposure of the rings to NTG (10 -4 M) for 90 min, followed by repeated rinsing for 1 h, produced a parallel, rightward shift of the subsequent concentration-response curves to NTG and SNP ; a slight but significant reduction in the maximal response to NTG was also observed. Previous exposure to NTG had no effect on the NIC or cromakalim concentration-response curves. When the tissues were exposed to NIC (3 x 10 -4 M) for 90 min, followed by repeated rinsing for 1 h, there was no effect on the subsequent concentration-response curves to NTG, NIC, SNP, or cromakalim. In both nitrate-tolerant and nontolerant coronary arteries, glibenclamide (GLI 10 -6 M), a selective K ATP channel blocker, caused a parallel rightward shift in the concentration-response curve to cromakalim, but had no effect on responses to NTG or SNP. In nontolerant coronary arteries, GLI had no effect on NIC-induced relaxation, but in nitrate-tolerant preparations, GLI produced a significant rightward shift in the NIC concentration-response curve. The results demonstrate that prolonged exposure to NTG, but not NIC, causes tolerance in isolated porcine coronary arteries and that the response to NIC is not affected by nitrate tolerance. The data also suggest that NIC-induced relaxation of nitrate-tolerant, but not nontolerant, coronary arteries is mediated by activation of K ATP channels.
Myanthropus is older than youranthropus

William W. Howells. Evolution of the Genus Homo. Reading, Mass.: Addison Wesley Publishing Company, 1973. 180 pp. Illustrations, Bibliography, and index. $3.95 (paper). Frank E. Poirier. Fossil Man: An Evolutionary Journey. St. Louis: C. V. Mosby Company, 1973. xvii + 219 pp. Illustrations, bibliography, glossary, and index. $6.50 (paper).
Neutrophil sandwiches injure the microcirculation.

Experiments in two mouse models of thromboinflammatory disease show how neutrophils stick to red blood cells and platelets—leading to reduced blood flow and damage to the microcirculation. Polarized expression of αMβ2 integrins on neutrophils helps set the process in motion (pages 384−391).
Effect of Coal Constituents on the Liquid-Assisted Capture of Impacting Ash Particles in Direct Coal-Fired Gas Turbines

With the growing interest in burning pulverized coal directly in gas turbines, the problem of fouling--blockage of hot-gas pathways by thick ash deposits--is receiving increased attention. The inertial deposition rate of supermicron ash, which determines the fouling propensity of the coal via the thickness of the deposit, depends linearly on the sticking fraction of ash material arriving at the cooled surfaces, e.g., turbine blades and guide vanes. The magnitude and temperature-dependence of the sticking coefficient will depend on the inventory, composition and physico-chemical properties of the liquid glue consistent with the prevailing temperature, pressure and trace inorganic elemental compositions. As the deposit evolves in time, it encounters several deposition regimes in the order of increasing surface temperature, each characterized by a different source of liquid glue. The effect of coal-ash constituents on the extent of each of these sticking regimes is investigated theoretically here by means of a model of self-regulated ash deposition.
Angularly sensitive wide field of view micro-sensor construction and new processing paradigm: task oriented optical processing

Discussed is a novel method of manufacturing an Angularly Sensitive Micro-Sensor (ASMS). The process employed utilizes excimer laser ablation to write out the microlens on the curved surface of the master lens. This master lens element is manufactured with fused optical fibers, such that if the registration is maintained, the light from each microlens goes via the fiber to a specific pixel in a focal plane array (FPA). Such a system allows for a field of view greatly in excess of 180 degrees. If local imaging is required for specific tasks the fiber can send the angularly localized image to a pixel set. Image fusing may then be required. Infrared and ultraviolet versions can be manufactured. A more general application allows for a multi-spectral sensor. After one ASMS is constructed, then an inverse mask (mould) can be created and the monolithic sphere, retaining its registration, is covered in liquid plastic and placed into the mould and the exact replica is re-created. The advantage is low cost and rapid manufacture of the ASMS. The paper focuses on this sensor as a Task-Oriented Optical Processing (TOP) system; where the processing is performed primarily by the optics leaving a greatly reduced requirement for an electronic processor. This is a critical issue for micro, insect sized platforms where the weight budget is devoted to the energy and propulsive systems. An important aspect of this approach is that the sensor samples amplitude and angular space rather than amplitude and position space as conventional sensors currently do. This makes the ASMS processing paradigm completely different from conventional image processing. For example using several fiber/pixel elements to comprise a UV polarimeter allows for simple storage and processing of vector elements for simple navigation. The home position may be treated as "Look up table" reference matrix (RM). That base table can be modified to account for the passage of time (and hence change in solar position from the UV polarimeter, as appropriate). A second "real time" travel matrix (TRM) is then created. Eventually, a target matrix (TAM) would also be created. Simply driving changes in the TRM towards the RM would be used for navigating the return trip back to home base. When the difference between the two matrices goes to a null matrix the platform would be home.
Selling accounts receivable and the underinvestment problem

Abstract Firms plagued by the Myers underinvestment problem can mitigate the severity of underinvestment by selling their high credit-quality accounts receivable. This paper solves for the break-point level of receivable credit-quality (that is, the level of credit-quality such that the sale of receivables whose quality is greater than this level will mitigate the magnitude of underinvestment,) and demonstrates that this break-point is an increasing function of the riskiness of the firms’ debt. The predictions of this model have broad implications for the nature of factoring and receivable securitization contracts.
Sex reversal syndrome (XX male).

Abstract Men who appear normal and live a normal life, may have a 46,XX karyotype andpresent with the typical features of infertility and end organ (testicular) failure. They are azoospermic and their small testicles show specific patterns on light and electron microscopy. Recent advances in genetics (1) favor the “X-Y interchange” theory to explain this phenomenon; (2) hypothesize about the roles of the H-Y antigen and testis determining factor (TDF) in determining “maleness”; and (3) allow mapping of the relative positions of H-Y and TDF loci on the Y chromosome.
Churg-Strauss syndrome: clinical presentation, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, and leukotriene receptor antagonists

Abstract Purpose To determine the association of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) and leukotriene receptor antagonists with disease activity in a large series of patients with Churg-Strauss syndrome. Methods Potential subjects were identified by a computerized search of the Mayo Clinic Rochester database for the years 1990 to 2000. Patients meeting one of three classification schemes for Churg-Strauss syndrome were included. Results Ninety-one patients met the inclusion criteria. Clinical manifestations were similar to those in previous reports. Mortality was similar to that in the general population. ANCA testing was performed in 74 patients. Seventy-three percent (n = 22) of the 30 patients tested before therapy were ANCA positive, as were 75% (n = 12) of the 16 patients tested during a disease flare. In comparison, 16% (n = 8) of the 49 tested during remission were ANCA positive. Serial measurements indicated a correlation of ANCA levels with disease activity. Central nervous system involvement was the only clinical manifestation that correlated with ANCA status ( P = 0.05). Twenty-three patients received leukotriene receptor antagonists, of whom 16 (70%) began treatment before diagnosis and 6 (27%) began during remission. Two of those treated after diagnosis relapsed. In 1 patient the relation between disease and leukotriene receptor antagonist use could not be determined. Use of leukotriene receptor antagonists did not affect the time between onset of asthma and manifestations of vasculitis, and was not correlated with organ manifestations, except sinus disease. Conclusion No one classification scheme identified all patients. Churg-Strauss syndrome has a better prognosis than other ANCA-associated vasculitides. ANCA status correlates with disease activity, whereas a pathogenic role for leukotriene receptor antagonists in the development of Churg-Strauss syndrome was not noted.
Negative regulation of ISG15 E3 ligase EFP through its autoISGylation

The function of ubiquitin-like protein ISG15 and protein modification by ISG15 (ISGylation) has been an enigma for many years. Recently, the research of ISGylation has been accelerated by the identification of the enzymes involved in the ISG15 conjugation process. Our previous study identified the interferon inducible protein EFP as an ISG15 isopeptide ligase (E3) for 14-3-3σ. In this study, we show that ISG15 E3 ligase EFP can be modified by ISG15. Two ubiquitin E2 conjugating enzymes, UbcH6 and UbcH8, can support ISGylation of EFP. The Ring-finger domain of EFP is important for its ISGylation. Full-length EFP can enhance the ISGylation of Ring domain deleted EFP, indicating EFP can function as an ISG15 E3 ligase for itself. We also determined the ISGylation site of EFP and created its ISGylation resistant mutant EFP-K117R. Compared to the wild-type EFP, this mutant further increases the ISGylation of 14-3-3σ. Thus we propose that autoISGylation of EFP negatively regulates its ISG15 E3 ligase activity for 14-3-3σ.
Predicting Outdoor Recreation Area Use in a Southeastern US County: A Signal Detection Analysis

Use of outdoor recreation areas (ORAs) is correlated with physical activity (PA) in community-dwelling adults. Additionally, the wide spread availability of ORAs, including their placement in disadvantaged neighborhoods, make them an especially promising venue through which to promote PA. The purpose of this study was to examine the combination of individual-level factors associated with ORA use in a socioeconomically diverse Southeastern US county. A 2011 random digit-dial survey included 829 adults aged 18+ years with complete data; questions assessed PA level and use/perceived safety of ORAs. Signal detection analysis, a non-parametric recursive partitioning technique, identified cutpoints for defining subgroups of respondents based on ORA use. Seven subgroups were defined ranging from 77.2 % ORA use (younger, met PA recommendations) to 31.8 % ORA use (older, perceived ORAs to be less safe). Signal detection did not identify gender or race as important for defining subgroups. Results suggest that gendered and ethnically-focused ORA promotion campaigns might be unnecessary. Instead, efforts could focus on increasing awareness of ORA facilities among older, less active adults.
Clinical laboratory assessment of immediate-type hypersensitivity

Clinical laboratory analyses aid in the diagnosis and management of human allergic (IgE-dependent) diseases. Diagnosis of immediate-type hypersensitivity begins with a thorough clinical history and physical examination. Once symptoms compatible with an allergic disorder have been identified, a skin test, blood test, or both for allergen-specific IgE antibodies provide confirmation of sensitization, which strengthens the diagnosis. Skin testing provides a biologically relevant immediate-type hypersensitivity response with resultant wheal-and-flare reactions within 15 minutes of allergen application. Allergen-specific IgE antibody in serum is quantified by using 3 laboratory-based autoanalyzers (ImmunoCAP, Immulite, and HYTEC-288) and novel microarray and lateral-flow immunoassays. Technologic advances in serologic allergen-specific IgE measurements have involved increased automation, with enhanced reproducibility, greater quantification, lower analytic sensitivity, and component-supplemented extract-based allergen use. In vivo provocation tests involving inhalation, ingestion, or injection of allergens serve to clarify discordant history and skin- or blood-based measures of sensitization. Other diagnostic allergy laboratory analyses include total and free serum IgE measurement, precipitating IgG antibodies specific for organic dusts, mast cell tryptase, and indicator allergen analyses to assess indoor environments to promote patient-targeted allergen avoidance programs. A critique is provided on the predictive utility of serologic measures of specific IgE for food allergy and asthma. Reasons for the lack of clinical utility for food-specific IgG/IgG4 measurements in allergy diagnosis are examined. When the specific IgE measures are inconsistent with the clinical history, they should be confirmed by means of repeat and alternative method analysis. Ultimately, the patient's clinical history remains the principal arbiter that determines the final diagnosis of allergic disease.