cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nicotine Primarily Suppresses Lung Th2 but Not Goblet Cell and Muscle Cell Responses to Allergens

Allergic asthma, an inflammatory disease characterized by the infiltration and activation of various leukocytes, the production of Th2 cytokines and leukotrienes, and atopy, also affects the function of other cell types, causing goblet cell hyperplasia/hypertrophy, increased mucus production/secretion, and airway hyperreactivity. Eosinophilic inflammation is a characteristic feature of human asthma, and recent evidence suggests that eosinophils also play a critical role in T cell trafficking in animal models of asthma. Nicotine is an anti-inflammatory, but the association between smoking and asthma is highly contentious and some report that smoking cessation increases the risk of asthma in ex-smokers. To ascertain the effects of nicotine on allergy/asthma, Brown Norway rats were treated with nicotine and sensitized and challenged with allergens. The results unequivocally show that, even after multiple allergen sensitizations, nicotine dramatically suppresses inflammatory/allergic parameters in the lung including the following: eosinophilic/lymphocytic emigration; mRNA and/or protein expression of the Th2 cytokines/chemokines IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-25, and eotaxin; leukotriene C 4 ; and total as well as allergen-specific IgE. Although nicotine did not significantly affect hexosaminidase release, IgG, or methacholine-induced airway resistance, it significantly decreased mucus content in bronchoalveolar lavage; interestingly, however, despite the strong suppression of IL-4/IL-13, nicotine significantly increased the intraepithelial-stored mucosubstances and Muc5ac mRNA expression. These results suggest that nicotine modulates allergy/asthma primarily by suppressing eosinophil trafficking and suppressing Th2 cytokine/chemokine responses without reducing goblet cell metaplasia or mucous production and may explain the lower risk of allergic diseases in smokers. To our knowledge this is the first direct evidence that nicotine modulates allergic responses.
The EUV Excess in Magnetic Cataclysmic Variables

We present preliminary analysis of EUVE pointed data of 8 magnetic cataclysmic variables. Blackbody temperatures, luminosities, and interstellar columns have been better constrained. Using these luminosities we look for correlations between the EUV excess (over optical and hard X-rays) and various system parameters. While it appears there is no correlation between the EUV excess and the system inclination and orbital period, correlations are suggested between the EUV excess and the longitude of the accretion spot, the colatitude of the accretion spot, the white dwarf magnetic field, and the magnetic capture radius.
Serum ionized calcium by electrodes: new technology and methodology.

Abstract We report experience measuring serum ionized calcium (Ca2+) with new solid-state, specific calcium ion dip electrodes in a commercially available system for automated electrode measurements which permits stable measurements on thirty samples with up to six different electrodes simultaneously. The system provides electrostatic shielding, temperature regulation at 37° C, and adjustment of serum pH with CO2 gas, thereby making practical the use of serum standards and routine measurements on sera. When the electrodes are used with the rest of the measuring system and with serum standards, the system provides serum Ca2+ measurements with high precision (C.V. of 0.7%) and the calcium electrodes maintain good slopes for 50 to 150 hours of cumulative wet immersion. Response to new calcium activity is rapid, and wide variations in serum Ca2+ are readily measured.
PHYSIOLOGY OF ORIGINAL AND REGENERATED LIZARD TAILS

Many lizards autotomize their tails during an encounter with a predator. Tails thrash following autotomy, thus distracting the predator and increasing the probability of escape. Regeneration of the tail occurs rapidly in many species of lizards. We investigated several aspects of the physiology of original and regenerated tails of the gecko Hemidactylus mabouia. Thrashing durations of original and regenerated tails after autotomy were similar, but original tails accumulated significantly more lactate per gram tissue than did regenerated tails. The reduction in lactate concentration paralleled a reduction in protein concentration in regenerated tails suggesting that lower protein concentrations in regenerated tails contributed to lower lactate concentrations. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity was not significantly different in original and regenerated tails, suggesting that LDH was not responsible for the observed difference in lactate concentrations. Histochemical and immunochemical analyses revealed t...
Flow through the nasal cavity of the spiny dogfish, Squalus acanthias

The nasal cavity of spiny dogfish is a blind capsule with no internal connection to the oral cavity. Water is envisioned to flow through the cavity in a smooth, continuous flow pattern; however, this assumption is based on previous descriptions of the morphology of the olfactory cavity. No experimentation on the flow through the internal nasal cavity has been reported. Morphology of the head of the spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias) does not suggest a close external connection between the oral and nasal systems. However, dye visualization showed that there was flow through the nasal apparatus and from the excurrent nostril to the mouth when respiratory flows were simulated. The hydrodynamic flow through the nasal cavity was observed from flow tank experiments. The dorsum of the nasal cavity of shark heads from dead animals was exposed by dissection and a glass plate was glued over of the exposed cavity. When the head was placed in a flow, dye was observed to be drawn passively into the cavity showing a complex, three-dimensional hydrodynamic flow. Dye entered the incurrent nostril, flowed through the nasal lamellae, crossed over and under the nasal valve, and circulated around the nasal valve before exiting the excurrent nostril. When the nasal valve was removed, the dye became stagnant and back flowed out through the incurrent nostril. The single nasal valve has a hydrodynamic function that organizes a coherent flow of water through the cavity without disruption. The results suggest that the morphology of the nasal apparatus in concert with respiratory flow and ambient flows from active swimming can be used to draw water through the olfactory cavity of the shark.
The Effect of Property Tax Systems on Household Property Tax Burdens

The authors say that providing full disclosure (truth in taxation) does not ease property tax burdens. The typical classification program favoring residential property does reduce the burden.
The Temporalis Muscle Flap for Intraoral Reconstruction: Technical Modifications

For three years we have used the temporalis muscle flap for reconstruction of intraoral defects. Advantages of this flap are that it is non-hair-bearing, nonbulky, pliable, durable, proximal to intraoral defects, and it results in better articulation and deglutition. We have modified our original technique so that we facilitate transference of the flap by a more anterior transection through the zygomatic arch, we improve the aesthetic reconstruction by use of the transected coronoid process, we produce better function by preventing adhesions and granulation tissue, and we enhance definition of the lingual sulcus by splinting.
Long-awaited news for hepatic veno-occlusive disease

In this issue of Blood , Palomo et al 1 provide new insight into the mechanism of action of defibrotide as an endothelial protective agent, while Richardson et al 2 present the encouraging final results of the phase 3 clinical study of defibrotide for the treatment of severe hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD), showing a 23% improvement in day +100 survival after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) compared with historical control.
ROC Analysis: Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy in the Laboratory

The intrinsic ability of a diagnostic test or system to discriminate between two states of health constitutes its accuracy in the purest sense. Information about this accuracy can be readily obtained by the laboratorian using receiver (or relative) operating characteristic curve analysis, and may be helpful in making some of the decisions normally encountered in laboratory practice.
A study of faculty racial diversity in business schools: Perceptions of business deans

ABSTRACTFor decades, business schools in the United States have attempted to increase faculty diversity. The goals and benefits of increasing faculty diversity include improved educational outcomes, social justice, and economic competitiveness. While Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business data shows that a gender gap still exists in business schools, it is not as wide as the racial gap. The authors examined whether business deans view various minority groups as underrepresented and what they think are the primary reasons for underrepresentation.
A Smart-Power Customer-Side Management Platform Based on IoT and Visualization Interface

In this paper,we propose a platform for exploring power consumption on the customer side of IoT.The platform collects power information from smart terminals and sensors and creates a smart power analysis and control environment based on IoT and visual interface.Collected data is analyzed and processed by advanced software so that information about key power-consuming equipment can be shared with grid enterprises and customers.The platform provides comprehensive,multidimensional power management as well as data support and access strategies for the integration of inverter equipment,synchronous condenser,and reactive power compensation.
57 THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CAFFEINE AND BLOOD PRESSURE IN PREADOLESCENT AFRICAN AMERICAN GIRLS.

Purpose While caffeine consumption has been shown to be associated with blood pressure (BP) elevation in controlled experiments, the relationship between caffeine consumption and higher BP levels in preadolescent (ages 6 to 11 years) and adolescent (ages 12 to 19 years) children consuming a regular diet has not been defined. The primary objective of this study was to assess the dose-response relationship between dietary caffeine intake and BP in 8- to 10-year-old African American girls consuming a regular diet. Methods Demographic, three 24-hour dietary recalls, and BP data from 303 8- to 10-year-old African American girls in the Girls Health Enrichment Multisite Studies (GEMS) cohort were analyzed using linear and multiple regression models. Results Dietary intake of caffeine was not associated with either systolic (SBP) or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (p = .33 and .36, respectively). However, consistent with the literature, height and body mass index were positively associated with SBP (p Conclusions Dietary intake of caffeine is not associated with elevated BP in 8- to 10-year-old African American girls consuming a regular diet.
Corporate Governance,Uncertainty and Cash Value

In this paper we construct a comprehensive indicator system of corporate governance to investigate investor's valuation on corporate's cash holdings.We found that cash holdings in a well-governed firm is higher than that in a poor-governed firm and investors tend to pay liquidity premium to better corporate governance.Cash holdings is higher in financially constrained firms due to its buffering function.Our findings suggest that optimizing governance mechanism and improving financing channels can effectively reduce a firm's cash holdings,and thus enhance its risk management under uncertainty.
Surgery for Partial Seizures and Cortical Dysplasia

The role of ictal or continuous epileptogenic discharges (I/CEDs), recorded during intraoperative electrocorticography (ECoG), in the planning of surgical resection for patients with cortical dysplastic lesions (CDyLs) and intractable partial seizures was evaluated at the Montreal Neurological Institute, the Epilepsy Surgery Program, Porto-Alegre, Brazil, and the Chonbuk National Hospital, Chonju, Korea.
Impact of an Interaction Between Clopidogrel and Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

Clopidogrel is a pro-drug that requires activation by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme system. Patients receiving clopidogrel are often treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for co-existing depression. SSRIs that inhibit the CYP2C19 enzyme have the potential to reduce the effectiveness of clopidogrel. Using 5 US databases (1998 to 2013), we conducted a cohort study of adults who initiated clopidogrel while being treated with either an SSRI that inhibits CYP2C19 (fluoxetine and fluvoxamine) or a noninhibiting SSRI. Patients were matched by propensity score and followed for as long as they were exposed to both clopidogrel and the index SSRI group (primary analysis) or for 180 days after clopidogrel initiation (sensitivity analysis). Outcomes included a composite ischemic event (myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, or a revascularization procedure) and a composite major bleeding event (gastrointestinal bleed or hemorrhagic stroke). The final propensity score–matched cohort comprised 9,281 clopidogrel initiators on CYP2C19-inhibiting SSRIs and 44,278 clopidogrel initiators on a noninhibiting SSRIs. Compared with those treated with a noninhibiting SSRI, patients on a CYP2C19-inhibiting SSRI had an increased risk of ischemic events (hazard ratio [HR] 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01 to 1.24), which was more pronounced in patients ≥65 years (HR 1.22; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.48). The HR for major bleeding was 0.76 (95% CI 0.50 to 1.17). In conclusion, the findings from this large, population-based study suggest that being treated with a CYP2C19-inhibiting SSRI when initiating clopidogrel may be associated with slight decrease in effectiveness of clopidogrel.
U-shaped folding of the amino terminus of human multidrug resistance associated protein 1 (MRP1)

Proc Amer Assoc Cancer Res, Volume 45, 2004 511 Multidrug resistance associated protein 1 (MRP1) is a member of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter superfamily and its overexpression in cancers may be responsible for multidrug resistance in cancer chemotherapy. The current prevailing topology of MRP1 consists of 17 transmembrane segments with a putative extracellular amino terminus which is thought to be functionally important. However, the extracellular location of the amino terminus of human MRP1 was questioned when a monoclonal antibody IU2H10 directed against the amino terminus reacted with MRP1 only after cellular permeabilization. In this study, we examined in detail the relative membrane orientation of the amino terminus of human MRP1 by engineering a series of HA or FLAG epitope at different locations within the 32 amino acids of the amino terminus of human MRP1. Stable cell lines expressing the mutant MRP1 were examined for the amino terminal localization of the tag and IU2H10 epitopes. We found that the tag at position 2, 4, and 24 can be detected by Flag or HA antibodies while the tag at position 15 cannot be detected without cellular permeabilization. These observations suggest that the far amino terminal end of the amino terminus of human MRP1 is likely located extracellularly whereas the center piece is located intracellularly. The tag at position 30 could not be detected with or without cellular permeabilization, likely because it is too close to the membrane. We also found that IU2H10 epitope was not accessible from outside of cells when the tag epitope was inserted at positions 2 and 4, similar to the wild type MRP1. However, it can be detected with the tag epitope inserted at position 24 and 30. Based on these observations, we propose that the amino terminus of human MRP1 forms a U-shaped conformation with the bottom of the U located intracellularly with the IU2H10 epitope. Insertion of tags at the C-terminal end of the amino terminus would push the IU2H10 epitope out of cells and thus, accessible.
Routine port-site excision in incidentally discovered gallbladder cancer is not associated with improved survival: A multi-institution analysis from the US Extrahepatic Biliary Malignancy Consortium.

BACKGROUND Current data on the utility of port-site excision (PSE) during re-resection for incidentally discovered gallbladder cancer (IGBC) in the US are conflicting and limited to single-institution series. METHODS All patients with IGBC who underwent curative re-resection at 10 institutions from 2000 to 2015 were included. Patients with and without PSE were compared. Primary outcome was overall survival (OS). RESULTS Of 449 pts with GBC, 266 were incidentally discovered, of which 193(73%) underwent curative re-resection and had port-site data; 47 pts(24%) underwent PSE, 146(76%) did not. The PSE rate remained similar over time (2000-2004: 33%; 2005-2009: 22%; 2010-2015:22%; P = 0.36). Both groups had similar demographics, operative procedures, and post-operative complications. There was no difference in T-stage (T1: 9 vs. 11%; T2: 52 vs. 52%; T3: 39 vs. 38%; P = 0.96) or LN involvement (36 vs. 41%; P = 0.7) between groups. A 3-year OS was similar between PSE and no PSE groups (65 vs. 43%; P = 0.07). On univariable analysis, residual disease at re-resection (HR = 2.1, 95% CI 1.4-3.3; P = 0.001), high tumor grade, and advanced T-stage were associated with decreased OS. Only grade and T-stage, but not PSE, persisted on multivariable analysis. Distant disease recurrence-rate was identical between PSE and no PSE groups (80 vs. 81%; P = 1.0). CONCLUSION Port-site excision during re-resection for IGBC is not associated with improved overall survival and has the same distant disease recurrence compared to no port-site excision. Routine port-site excision is not recommended.
Prostate Cancer Screening in Early Medicaid Expansion States

Purpose: The PPACA (Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act) of 2010 included a provision to expand Medicaid by 2014. Six states and jurisdictions elected to expand Medicaid early before 2012. This provided a natural experiment to test the association between expanded insurance coverage and preventive service utilization, including prostate cancer screening.Materials and Methods: Using the 2012 and 2014 BRFSS (Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System) surveys we identified men 40 to 64 years old who reported prostate specific antigen testing in the preceding 12 months. Sociodemographic and access to care variables were extracted. Income was stratified by the relationship to Medicaid eligibility and the federal poverty level (less than 138%, 138% to 400% and greater than 400%). The weighted prevalence of prostate specific antigen was estimated. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate factors associated with prostate specific antigen screening. Interaction analysis for Medicaid e...
Augmented Reality Design Heuristics: Designing for Dynamic Interactions:

Augmented Reality (AR) has emerged as a rapidly developing technology, capable of a wide scope of applications across a variety of domains. AR technologies allow for a virtual experience to be over...
"It's Almost Like Gay Sex Doesn't Exist": Parent-Child Sex Communication According to Gay, Bisexual, and Queer Male Adolescents.

Sex communication interventions facilitate positive sexual health outcomes with heterosexual adolescents. The same has yet to be established for male youth with same-sex attractions, behaviors, and identities. Our study describes the experiences of gay, bisexual, and queer (GBQ)-identifying adolescent males with parent-child sex communication. We conducted 30 in-depth semistructured interviews with a diverse group of 15- to 20-year-old GBQ males. Interview transcripts were coded, and themes were identified using thematic and content analysis. Narratives revealed that sex communication with parents occurs rarely, is heteronormative in content prior to adolescent males’ disclosure as GBQ, and after disclosure is reactionary and based on stereotypes that associate this population with negative health outcomes. Parents were rated poorly as sex educators by adolescent males, and the findings are mixed regarding perception of parents’ knowledge about GBQ-specific information. Parents and health care providers w...
Social Class Impact Modified with Hierarchy of Needs

Although Chap. 6 emphasized a general model of international consumer behavior, it did not get into two very important forces which form and modify the consumer behavior.
Sinus and Upper Airway Surgery in Children

Chronic sinus and upper airway disease in children is a common health problem encountered every day. Its pathophysiology is complicated which leads to different treatment options and approaches. We seek to review the current literature and evidence to surgical treatments. Medical treatment with antibiotics and topical nasal sprays continues to be the first-line treatment. Surgical interventions include adenoidectomy, balloon catheter sinuplasty (BCS), and endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). Each modality has proven to be safe; however, its effectiveness is widely variable. More research with higher level of evidence is needed to help in choosing the right surgical treatment with optimal benefit.
Transgenic American Chestnuts Do Not Inhibit Germination of Native Seeds or Colonization of Mycorrhizal Fungi.

The American chestnut (Castanea dentata) was once an integral part of eastern US deciduous forests, with many environmental, economic, and social values. This ended with the introduction of an invasive fungal pathogen that wiped out over three billion trees. Transgenic American chestnuts expressing a gene for oxalate oxidase successfully tolerate infections by this blight fungus, but potential non-target environmental effects should be evaluated before new restoration material is released. Two greenhouse bioassays evaluated belowground interactions between transgenic American chestnuts and neighboring organisms found in their native ecosystems. Potential allelopathy was tested by germinating several types of seeds, all native to American chestnut habitats, in the presence of chestnut leaf litter. Germination was not significantly different in terms of number of seeds germinated or total biomass of germinated seedlings in transgenic and non-transgenic leaf litter. Separately, ectomycorrhizal associations were observed on transgenic and non-transgenic American chestnut roots using field soil inoculum. Root tip colonization was consistently high (>90% colonization) on all plants and not significantly different between any tree types. These observations on mycorrhizal fungi complement previous studies performed on older transgenic lines which expressed oxalate oxidase at lower levels. Along with other environmental impact comparisons, these conclusions provide further evidence that transgenic American chestnuts are not functionally different with regard to ecosystem interactions than non-transgenic American chestnuts.
Josephson Junction Materials Research Using Phase Qubits

At present, the performance of superconducting qubits is limited by decoherence. Strong decoherence of phase qubits is associated with spurious microwave resonators residing within the Josephson junction tunnel barrier.1 In this Chapter three different fabrication techniques for producing tunnel junctions that vary the properties of the superconductor-insulator interface are investigated. Through experimental measurements, the junction and corresponding qubit quality is characterized. A strong correlation between the morphology of oxidized base electrodes and the lowering of subgap currents in the junction I–V characteristics is found, while there is no noticeable improvement in the performance of fabricated phase qubits. Thus, “traditional” indicators of junction performance may not be enough to determine qubit performance. However, truly crystalline insulating barriers may be the key to improving Josephson junction based qubits.
Knowledge of pelvic floor disorder in pregnancy

Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common condition which can lead to distressing consequences such as urinary incontinence (UI), pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and fecal incontinence (FI). Pregnancy is a known major risk factor. This study aims to assess the level of knowledge about pelvic floor disorders among pregnant women in our local population. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a population of pregnant women in their third trimester. A 47-question questionnaire was distributed to a random sample group. Knowledge scores were calculated. Possible predictive factors for knowledge level such as age, ethnicity, parity, ethnicity and educational levels were studied. Thirty-three out of 104 respondents (31.7%) reported history of urinary incontinence, 3 respondents (2.9%) reported sensation of prolapse, and 1 respondent (0.96%) reported fecal incontinence. The knowledge score for urinary incontinence was the highest at 46.2% and lowest in pelvic organ prolapse at 35.3%. Mean knowledge scores increased significantly with age (p = 0.021) and educational level (p = 0.046). The nulliparous women scored higher than the multiparous women. Age and educational level had a significant impact on multivariate analysis scores. The knowledge on pelvic floor disorders is poor among our local pregnant women. Healthcare professionals should place increased emphasis on advocating pelvic floor exercises for pregnant women during their routine antenatal care.
A Womanist Interpretation of the Lukan Parable of the Great Supper (Luke 14:15-24): Using the Amended Parable Theory of Octavia E. Butler

For African American women and many others, Octavia Butler’s recontextualizations of biblical parables aid in the understanding of the biblical text. Additionally, her recontextualizations help African American women decode the oppressive reality of their own lives. As womanists, we believe that these stories of our lives have value for theological reflection. As an African American Christian womanist, I believe that my reflections lend value to the general discussion of womanist thought. Furthermore, a womanist hermeneutic, an interpretive procedure that takes seriously the everyday experiences of being African American and female in the diaspora, says that the life and ministry of Jesus is central to the theology of African American Christian women. The parables of Jesus, the primary genre of his teaching in the gospels, compel African American women and hearers to come to a decision about the person and ministry of Jesus. These parables speak on two levels: the aspects of everyday life and the reign of God. The understanding of the relationship between these two levels is reflected in parable theories.
(246) Determining the Role of Presynaptic Ca2+ Signaling in the Spinal Cord in Pain Sensitization

Chronic neuropathic pain affects approximately 10% of the population and only a minority of patients experience satisfactory relief of their pain with currently available pharmaceutics. As most previous reports focused primarily on the post-synaptic signaling of the first sensory synapse via patch-clamp recordings, we aim to address a gap in the current knowledge about the potential role of presynaptic Ca2+ signaling in central sensitization following neuropathic injury. Utilizing a novel ex vivo intact spinal cord preparation, a mouse line that expresses GCaMP specifically in the sensory neurons, and multiphoton microscopy to image presynaptic Ca2+ signaling, we are able to evaluate presynaptic Ca2+ signaling in the spinal cord isolated from mice that underwent either spared nerve injury (SNI) or sham surgery. Behavioral testing was used to confirm development of mechanical allodynia in SNI (but not sham) mice prior to presynaptic Ca2+ imaging. Presynaptic [Ca2+]cyt changes were induced by dorsal root stimulation, bradykinin, and capsaicin. The effects of modulatory neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, were also tested for their ability to regulate [Ca2+]cyt in central processes of sensory afferent neurons. Preliminary results quantifying frequency and duration of presynaptic [Ca2+]cyt transients indicate that neuropathic injury alters basal Ca2+ signaling and responsiveness to sensory modulators.
Field resistance of transgenic burley tobacco lines and hybrids expressing the tobacco vein mottling virus coat protein gene

Fifty transgenic lines expressing the tobacco vein mottling virus (TVMV) coat protein (CP) gene in five genetic backgrounds were evaluated under field conditions for response to mechanic inoculation with TVMV, tobacco etch virus (TEV) and potato virus Y (PVY). TVMV CP transgenic lines conferred resistance to TVMV, TEV and PVY under field conditions. Combining two strategies, coat protein-mediated resistance (CPMR) coupled with an endogenous resistance gene (Virgin A Mutant, VAM) significantly extended the range and magnitude of virus resistance and provided a potential valuable new source of protection against potyviruses. CP transgenic lines lacking the VAM gene had high resistance to TEV, medium resistance to PVY, and a recovery phenotype to TVMV. A series of hybrids involving transgenic lines were generated and tested under field conditions for response to virus inoculation. One copy of TVMV-CP gene presented in lines homozygous for the VAM gene provided effective resistance to all three potyviruses. These studies also suggested that selection of a suitable recipient genotype was critical and that field evaluation was necessary in order to select elite resistant transgenic lines. Engineering viral CP genes into genotypes possessing some level of virus resistance could be critical to achieve an effective level of resistance.
Delays in radiation therapy as a result of insurance peer-to-peer prior authorizations among lung cancer patients

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the USA and timely treatment plays a major role in the prognosis. Peer-to-peer insurance prior authorizations are believed to represent a major cause of treatment delays. However, the effect of peer-to-peer prior authorizations on radiotherapy treatment delays in lung cancer remains unknown. We reviewed departmental treatment records between September 2015 and 2018 for patients who received radiation therapy (RT) with curative intent for lung cancer. Our primary endpoint was delay in RT initiation; delay in RT simulation served as a secondary endpoint. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to estimate the effect of peer-to-peer reviews on treatment delays of at least 7 days. Two hundred and seventy patients were included. The median treatment delay was 6.5 days for those requiring peer-to-peer review versus 1 day for those who did not (Wilcoxon rank-sum test, p = 0.002). Univariate logistic regression found peer-to-peer review to be strongly correlated with a delay in start of treatment (OR = 3.58, p = 0.002) and simulation (OR = 9.24, p < 0.001); this effect persisted on multivariate analysis. Time trend analysis found that utilization of peer-to-peer reviews increased in frequency over our study period (p < 0.001). Peer-to-peer reviews were strongly correlated with delay in RT treatment and planning. This insurance practice has additionally become more prevalent over time. A more streamlined process is needed to address this issue.
Each/Every: CADA's Radically Democratic Dramaturgy of Dissent

We are therefore saying that the work of expanding the habitual levels of life is the only valid art installation / the only exhibition / the only work of art that lives.We are artists and we feel ourselves participating in the grand aspirations of all, presuming today, with South American love, the gliding of eyes over these lines.Oh, South America.In this way, together, we construct the beginning of the work: a recognition in our minds; erasing the trades: life as a creative act …That is the art / the work / this is the work of art that we propose.—iAy Sudamerica!, Colectivo Acciones de Arte, July 1981At 11 a.m. on 11 September 1973, the Chilean Air Force bombed the presidential palace, La Moneda, as part of an attack that ended the presidency of Salvador Allende, suspended democracy, and initiated the repressive military dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. Eight years later, on 12 July 1981, in the midst of dictatorship, six airplanes again flew over Santiago in military formation. This time, however, the planes did not drop bombs. Instead, they scattered four hundred thousand pamphlets with a text that urged Chileans to claim their space, thoughts, and lives by asserting the potential for artistry within all people. This art action, titled iAy Sudamerica! (Oh, South America!) and orchestrated by the Colectivo Acciones de Arte (Art Actions Collective, or CADA), subversively re-created a central moment from the violent history of the military coup in order to disturb and articulate an alternative course for that history (Fig. 1). In doing so, CADA challenged the regime's conception of Chilean citizenship by calling for an expanded space of existence and invoking the possibility of an artistic and contestatory subjectivity within everyone.
STRUCTURING A SMALL NATIONAL OR STATE SOLAR ENERGY PROGRAM

A methodology is developed for tailoring a solar energy effort for Florida to the circymstances peculiar to that state within the United States. Similar considerations should apply to other regions and particularly to small countries with limited resources. Two principal considerations arose: (l) the specific energy requirements which make Florida different from the nation as a whole; and (2) the characteristics of Florida which render it particularly suitable for programs of national importance. The methodology consists in conducting an analysis of energy end-use patterns, reviewing these patterns in terms of available solar technologies, selecting the most promising technologies, and modifying the results by incorporation of relevant social, economic, and political factors. The analysis resulted in compelling arguments for bioconversion, and, over the near term, for Florida to apply solar techniques not to the generation of electricity, but to substitution of solar heat for electricity currently used for water heating and space conditioning. OTEC was a suitable federal program. Communities of interests considerations did not alter the conclusions, but had a strong bearing on specific actions for implementation. A framework was constructed, relating phase of solar implementation to maturity of solar technology. Priorities were established in the phases of system analysis, research and development, demonstrations, standards and testing, commercialization, and education and information.
Synthesis and structures of a family of hybrid donor N2P2 beta-diketiminate zinc complexes

Abstract Monoanionic mixed N2P2 donor beta-diketiminate (BDI) ligands with phosphine pendant arms, 2-(4-tolyl)-bis(2-diisopropylphosphinophenyl)propenediimine (abbreviated as Tol-BDI(DIPPP)2H), were prepared and metallated with zinc(II) iodide. Three ligand variations have been synthesized by incorporating different substituents (methyl or methoxy) on the linker phenyl rings at positions 4 and 6. In the 4-methyl zinc complex [Tol-BDI(DIPPMeP)2ZnI] and 4-methoxy zinc complex [Tol-BDI(DIPPMeOP)2ZnI], the metal is bound to all four donors on the ligand, rendering a distorted square pyramidal geometry around the zinc metal with τ5 values of 0.25 and 0.29, respectively. However, the crystal structure of the 4,6-dimethyl zinc complex [Tol-BDI(DIPPMe2P)2ZnI] shows a four-coordinate zinc with only one phosphine bound to the metal, resulting in a distorted seesaw geometry around the metal. While X-ray crystallography shows no interactions between the metal center and the unbound phosphine, solution characterization reveals a symmetrical complex with both phosphines bound to the metal center in all three zinc complexes.
The Interplay of HIV-1 and Macrophages in Viral Persistence

HIV-1 has evolved mechanisms to evade host cell immune responses and persist for lifelong infection. Latent cellular reservoirs are responsible for this persistence of HIV-1 despite the powerful effects of highly active antiretroviral therapies (HAART) to control circulating viral load. While cellular reservoirs have been extensively studied, much of these studies have focused on peripheral blood and resting memory CD4+ T cells containing latent HIV-1 provirus; however, efforts to eradicate cellular reservoirs have been stunted by reservoirs found in tissues compartments that are not easily accessible. These tissues contain resting memory CD4+ T cells and tissue resident macrophages, another latent cellular reservoir to HIV-1. Tissue resident macrophages have been associated with HIV-1 infection since the 1980s, and evidence has continued to grow regarding their role in HIV-1 persistence. Specific biological characteristics play a vital role as to why macrophages are latent cellular reservoirs for HIV-1, and in vitro and in vivo studies exhibit how macrophages contribute to viral persistence in individuals and animals on antiretroviral therapies. In this review, we characterize the role and evolutionary advantages of macrophage reservoirs to HIV-1 and their contribution to HIV-1 persistence. In acknowledging the interplay of HIV-1 and macrophages in the host, we identify reasons why current strategies are incapable of eliminating HIV-1 reservoirs and why efforts must focus on eradicating reservoirs to find a future functional cure.
Ferroelectric HfO 2 Memory Transistors With High- κ Interfacial Layer and Write Endurance Exceeding 10 10 Cycles

We demonstrate ferroelectric (FE) memory transistors on a crystalline silicon channel with endurance exceeding 1010 cycles. The ferroelectric transistors (FeFETs) incorporate a high- $\kappa $ interfacial layer (IL) of thermally grown silicon nitride (SiNx) and a thin 4.5 nm layer of Zr-doped FE-HfO2 (HZO) on a ~30 nm silicon on insulator (SOI) channel. The device shows a ~1V memory window (MW) in a DC sweep of just ± 2.5V, and can be programmed and erased with voltage pulses of $\text {V}_{\text {G}}= \pm \,\,3\text{V}$ at a pulse width of 250 ns. The device also shows very good retention behavior. These results indicate that appropriate engineering of the IL layer could substantially improve FeFET device performance and reliability.
Accuracy and Reproducibility of Frozen Section Diagnosis in Ovarian Tumors: A 10-Year Experience at a Tertiary Cancer Center

CONTEXT.— Intraoperative consultation-frozen section diagnosis (FSD)-determines tumor pathology and guides the optimal surgical management of ovarian neoplasms intraoperatively. OBJECTIVE.— To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the FSD and analyze the discrepancy between the FSD and final diagnosis. DESIGN.— This is a retrospective study of 618 ovarian neoplasm FSDs from 2009 to 2018 at a tertiary health care center. The discrepant cases were reviewed and reevaluated by gynecologic and general surgical pathologists. The outcomes of interest were performing unnecessary procedure, returning for a second surgery, and 30-day postoperative mortality. RESULTS.— The sensitivity and the positive predictive value of the FSD were lower in borderline tumors than in benign and malignant epithelial ovarian tumors. Major and minor discrepancies were identified in 5.3% (33 of 618) and 12.3% of (76 of 618) cases, respectively. A root cause analysis of the major discrepant cases showed that sampling error accounted for 43% (14 of 33). The discrepancy distributions of gynecologic and general surgical pathologists were statistically similar in the overall cohort (P = .65). The overall κ for diagnostic agreement among gynecologic pathologists, general surgical pathologists, and final diagnosis was 0.18 (0.10-0.26, P < .001), implying only a slight overall agreement. Of the major discrepant cases, only 3 had a clinical implication. One overdiagnosed patient underwent unnecessary procedure and 2 underdiagnosed patients were recommended to return for a second surgery. No patient had 30-day postoperative mortality. CONCLUSIONS.— Frozen section diagnosis remains a definitive diagnostic tool in ovarian neoplasms and plays a crucial role in guiding intraoperative surgical management.
Verruca Vulgaris Occurring on a Tattoo: Case Report and Review of Tattoo-Associated Human Papillomavirus Infections.

Cutaneous infections can occur on tattoos. Tattoo-associated viral infections can be caused by human papillomavirus. A verruca vulgaris developed on the tattoo of a 44-year-old woman; the viral lesion appeared 21 years after she received the tattoo and had been increasing in size during the prior five years. Biopsy of the lesion not only confirmed the diagnosis but also removed most of the wart; the patient declined any additional treatment. In addition to verruca vulgaris (27 individuals), verruca plana (14 individuals) and human immunodeficiency virus-associated acquired epidermodysplasia verruciformis (two men) are human papillomavirus lesions that have been observed to occur on tattoos. The latency period from receiving the tattoo to the appearance of the wart has ranged from one month to 21 years; the median duration was 21 months for verruca vulgaris and 24 months for verruca plana. The warts most frequently appeared in the dark, usually black, inked areas of the tattoo; indeed, it has been postulated that the ink created a cutaneous immunocompromised district that enhanced the opportunity for the viral lesions to occur in the tattoo. The use of contaminated instruments or ink during tattoo inoculation is the most likely etiology for the development of a wart on a tattoo. However, other potential mechanisms for human papillomavirus to occur on a tattoo include transmission of the virus from the tattoo artist's ungloved hand or saliva, a preexisting (albeit unrecognized) human papillomavirus lesion adjacent to or at the site of the tattoo, and postinoculation acquisition of the verruca at the site of the tattoo. Topical retinoid or imiquimod, used as a single agent, was not effective in the treatment of the warts. Some of the patients who were treated with cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen did not achieve any improvement of their viral lesions. However, other patients observed resolution of most or all their warts when cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen, either as monotherapy or followed by topical application of 5% imiquimod cream, was used; yet, following treatment, these individuals experienced mild distortion of their tattoo and/or hypopigmentation. Curettage and squaric acid dibutyl ester contact immunotherapy were both successful approaches to the management of tattoo-associated warts. In addition, warts were efficaciously managed with either photodynamic therapy or treatment with an ablative erbium:yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) laser followed by topical application of 5% imiquimod cream.
Control Techniques for Complex Networks

Power grids, flexible manufacturing, cellular communications: interconnectedness has consequences. This remarkable book gives the tools and philosophy you need to build network models detailed enough to capture essential dynamics but simple enough to expose the structure of effective control solutions and to clarify analysis. Core chapters assume only exposure to stochastic processes and linear algebra at the undergraduate level; later chapters are for advanced graduate students and researchers/practitioners. This gradual development bridges classical theory with the state-of-the-art. The workload model that is the basis of traditional analysis of the single queue becomes a foundation for workload relaxations used in the treatment of complex networks. Lyapunov functions and dynamic programming equations lead to the celebrated MaxWeight policy along with many generalizations. Other topics include methods for synthesizing hedging and safety stocks, stability theory for networks, and techniques for accelerated simulation. Examples and figures throughout make ideas concrete. Solutions to end-of-chapter exercises available on a companion website.
Submarine Volcanic Exhalations That form Mineral Deposits; An Old Idea Now Proven Correct

Submarine volcanism, the circulation of seawater through rocks of the seafloor and the formation of mineral deposits on and in rocks on the seafloor are all processes that were realized during the 19th Century. The possibility that the three processes might be connected and that formation of many kinds of mineral deposit might result, is a realization of the 20th Century, with the principal ideas coming from Japan and Norway. Observations of modern ore-forming systems in operation in the Mediterranean, the Red Sea and the Pacific have proven the process but leave open the question of equivalence in tectonic settings between modern deposits and older ores in the geological record.
Growth-stimulatory action of plasma membrane-associated growth factor: A synergistic effect with platelet-poor plasma

Abstract Growth factor activity was partially purified from mouse liver plasma membranes and its growth-stimulatory action on cultured mouse fibroblasts was studied. The plasma membrane-associated growth factor (PMGF) was unable to support the proliferation of mouse fibroblasts in monolayer when added as the sole source of growth factor. However, it stimulated the growth of fibroblasts in the presence of CM-Sephadex-treated human platelet-poor plasma (h-CMP) which by itself is not growth-stimulatory. The stimulation of DNA synthesis in quiescent fibroblasts was also observed upon the addition of PMGF and h-CMP. Under the same conditions, both platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) showed the same effect as did PMGF. The synergistic action of h-CMP with PMGF on quiescent cells was partially reproduced by insulin at microgram quantities or by insulin-like growth factor I(IGF-I) at nanogram quantities. Thus, the data presented here indicates that the action of PMGF is similar to that of the family of growth factors termed ‘competence factor’, and distinct from that of plasma growth factors termed ‘progression factor’.
Entrepreneurs and Recessions: Do Downturns Matter?

The relationship between company success and economic conditions at the time of a company's founding is ill-understood. Do weak economic conditions at the start lead to fewer companies founded? Do weak conditions lead to fewer successful companies? Do companies founded in better economic times fare better than those founded during recessions? The answers to these questions are important because of the central role that entrepreneurial ventures play in our economy, from job creation, to innovation, to improvements in our overall standard of living and GDP.
Information needs of rural health professionals: A case study of the tuberculosis and leprosy referral center (tb/l), Eku, Delta State

In developing countries, many rural health professionals have little or no access to basic practical information. The "information poverty" of health professionals in rural area is exacerbating what is clearly a public health emergency on a massive scale. It is against this background that the researcher is investigating the information needs of rural health professionals in the tuberculosis and leprosy referral centre (TB/L), Eku, Nigeria. The study employed the ex-post facto research method. The population of the study is 69. Percentages and frequency counts were used to analyze the data. The following are the findings derived from the study. The rural health professionals in the area need information on the diagnosis of ailment, availability of medical facilities, and research reports on causes and cures of ailments. Some of the sources of information to rural health professionals include department of health and human services, telephone contact with colleagues/agencies/local hospital libraries and rural health resources directory and research information. The major problems faced by them include lack of access to the Internet, inadequate interpretation skills and unreliable phone services. Recommendation were however made to ameliorate the situations.