cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Minchinia nelsoni n. sp. (Haplosporida, Haplosporidiidae): Causative Agent of the Delaware Bay Oyster Epizoötic

Since 1957, oyster popuulations of the Middle Atlantic coast have been ravaged by a new sporozoan parasite that has been called "MSX." This parasite is identified as a new species of Minchinia that invades oysters through epithelial tissues of gill, palp, water tubes, and, occasionally, of the digestive tract. Multinucleate plasmodia are recognized in fresh and fixed preparations.
Different Effects of Gsα Splice Variants on β2-Adrenoreceptor-mediated Signaling THE β2-ADRENORECEPTOR COUPLED TO THE LONG SPLICE VARIANT OF Gsα HAS PROPERTIES OF A CONSTITUTIVELY ACTIVE RECEPTOR

The beta2-adrenoreceptor (beta2AR) couples to the G-protein Gs to mediate adenylyl cyclase activation. The splice variants of Gsalpha differ by a 15-amino acid insert between the Ras-like domain and the alpha-helical domain. The long splice variant of Gsalpha (GsalphaL) binds GDP with lower affinity than the short splice variant (GsalphaS), but the impact of this difference on the interaction of Gsalpha with the beta2AR is not known. We studied the beta2AR/Gsalpha interaction using receptor/G-protein fusion proteins (beta2ARGsalphaS and beta2ARGsalphaL) expressed in Sf9 cells. Fusion of the beta2AR to Gsalpha promotes efficient coupling as shown by high-affinity agonist binding and GTPase and adenylyl cyclase activation and ensures fixed stoichiometry between receptor and G-protein. Importantly, fusion does not change the fundamental properties of the beta2AR or Gsalpha. The beta2AR in beta2ARGsalphaL showed hallmarks of constitutive activity (increased potency and intrinsic activity of partial agonists, increased efficacy of inverse agonists, and increased basal GTPase activity) compared with the beta2AR in beta2ARGsalphaS. The apparent constitutive activity of the beta2AR in beta2ARGsalphaL may be due to the lower GDP affinity of GsalphaL compared with GsalphaS, i.e. GsalphaL is more often nucleotide-free than GsalphaS and, therefore, more frequently available to stabilize the beta2AR in the active (R*) state. This study demonstrates that subtle structural differences between closely related G-protein alpha-subunits can have important consequences for the functional properties of a G-protein-coupled receptor.
Team cohesion and collective-labor supply in Chinese agriculture☆

Abstract This paper focuses on the degree of cohesion within Chinese production teams as a determinant of household incentives and collective-sector labor supply. Effects of changes in crop-procurement prices and fixed charges on the labor supply to the collective sector, labor allocation under alternative income-distribution systems, and the incentives to apply peer pressure to increase collective work effort are considered in the context of a simple household utility-maximization model. The results suggest that increasing the degree of cohesion within teams may lessen the severity of the trade-off between agricultural output and the transition to need-based distribution systems.
J/ psi production from electromagnetic fragmentation in Z0 decay.

The rate for [ital Z][sup 0][r arrow][ital J]/[psi]+[ital l][sup +][ital l][sup [minus]] is surprisingly large with about one event for every million [ital Z][sup 0] decays. The reason for this is that there is a fragmentation contribution that is not suppressed by a factor of [ital M][sub [psi]][sup 2]/[ital M][sub [ital Z]][sup 2]. In the fragmentation limit [ital M][sub [ital Z]][r arrow][infinity] with [ital E][sub [psi]]/[ital M][sub [ital Z]] fixed, the differential decay rate for [ital Z][sup 0][r arrow][ital J]/[psi]+[ital l][sup +][ital l][sup [minus]] factors into electromagnetic decay rates and universal fragmentation functions. The fragmentation functions for lepton fragmentation and photon fragmentation into [ital J]/[psi] are calculated to the lowest order in [alpha]. The fragmentation approximation to the rate is shown to match the full calculation for [ital E][sub [psi]] greater than about 3[ital M][sub [psi]].
Methylation of the rat glial fibrillary acidic protein gene shows tissue-specific domains.

The gene for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was compared for CpG sites that are potential locations of methylated cytosine (mC). GFAP sequences in the 5′-upstream promoter and in exon 1 of rat, mouse, and human showed extensive similarity in the locations of CpG sites in the promoter and in exon 1, implying conservation. The methylation of mC at 9 CpG sites in the promoter and 10 sites in exon 1 was analyzed in F344 male rats by a quantitative application of ligation-mediated polymerase chain reaction (LMPCR). CpG sites with varying mC in different tissues were found in the GFAP promoter and in a CpG island in exon 1. In the brain, the promoter had about 40% less mC than in testis and liver. The degree of methylation varied strikingly between adjacent sites within and between tissues. Testis GFAP exon 1 had a gradient of mC from 5′ to 3′ across the exon that was absent in liver, brain, and cultured neurons and astrocytes. Among brain regions, the hippocampus had 10–40% less mC at 12 CpG sites than in hypothalamus; the other sites (7/19) showed smaller differences between these brain regions. In DNA from primary cultures, astrocytes has slightly less mC than neurons at all sites. Because neuron-rich hippocampal subregions and primary neuron cultures had less methylation than nonneural tissues, we hypothesize that neuroectodermal derivatives tend to be less methylated, whether or not GFAP is expressed. Four domains of methylated CpG sites are proposed on the basis of tissue and cell-type distribution: (I) a constitutively methylated domain in the mid-upstream promoter; (II) a testis-specific gradient of methylation in exon 1; (III) a hypomethylated domain found in neuroectodermal derivatives; and (IV) subsets of sites in the promoter and in exon 1 that have the least methylation in astrocytes, and therefore may be astrocytespecific domains. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Gastric Dysplasia-Like Epithelial Atypia Associated with Chemoradiotherapy for Esophageal Cancer: A Clinicopathologic and Immunohistochemical Study of 15 Cases

Preoperative chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy (chemrad) is a common type of neoadjuvant treatment for esophageal adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical, histologic, proliferative (MIB-1), and oncogenetic (p53) features of 15 patients with gastric dysplasia-like epithelial atypical changes associated with preoperative chemrad for esophageal cancer. Two of these cases were initially misinterpreted as dysplasia, which led to partial gastrectomy. The findings were compared with 12 age- and sex-matched patients with known gastric dysplasia. Cases with gastric dysplasia-like epithelial atypia were significantly associated with a flat gross appearance, a patchy distribution, foveolar and gland involvement, surface maturation, an open nuclear chromatin pattern with prominent nucleoli, retention of nuclear polarity, mitoses confined to the pits, lack of atypical mitoses, cytoplasmic hypereosinophila and/or vacuolization, a lack of association with intestinal metaplasia, and finally, irregular glandular microcystic change, in comparison to the dysplasia controls. Furthermore, the study cases showed MIB-1 positivity restricted to the deep foveolar epithelium and an absence of p53 staining in 14 of 15 cases, in contrast to the dysplasia controls, in which MIB-1 stained both the deep and superficial foveolar epithelium and surface epithelium, and p53 was positive in all cases (100%). In summary, a number of histologic and immunohistochemical features may distinguish gastric dysplasia-like epithelial atypia associated with chemrad for esophageal cancer from true dysplasia. Pathologists should be aware of this entity and its histologic and immunohistochemical features to avoid misinterpretation and prevent unnecessary treatment.
The vascular biology of hypertension and atherosclerosis and intervention with calcium antagonists and angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors

Recent advances in the understanding of vascular disease genesis suggest that atherosclerosis and hypertension, primary targets of therapy in the INternational VErapamil SR/trandolapril STudy (INVEST), are closely related. A unified model for the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is emerging from recent advances related to atherosclerosis and hypertension. The process of vascular disease appears to begin early in life, when signs of endothelial dysfunction first appear. A primary cause of CVD progression is increased oxidative stress in the endothelium caused by multiple risk factor conditions, including heredity, dyslipidemia, smoking, diabetes, and elevated systolic blood pressure (SBP > 110 mmHg). The renin-angiotensin and kallikrein-kinin systems are important regulators of blood pressure and atherosclerosis. In the renin-angiotensin system, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) mediates generation of angiotensin II (ang II) at local vascular sites and in the plasma and also degrades bradykinin. Information derived from INVEST will help to identify treatment strategies, such as those containing a calcium antagonist and an ACE inhibitor, that are targeted directly at the vascular disorder responsible for hypertension and atherosclerosis.
Ocean self‐attraction and loading in numerical tidal models

The formalism for handling ocean tidal self‐attraction and loading in numerical tide models is reviewed. These forcing terms require global integrations of the tidal elevations, turning the dynamical differential equations into integro‐differential equations. Following Accad and Pekeris, many authors approximate the self‐attraction/loading terms by a simple scalar multiplier of the local tidal elevation, but the choice of multiplier is not obvious and is often confused. The one recommended by Accad and Pekeris generates large errors in the open ocean. Other scaling factors are examined here; none is recommended in general, and most serious applications should use the full integral formulation. New estimates of the self‐attraction/loading fields, based on global tidal measurements from recent satellite altimeters, are now readily available.
Development of Sputter-Deposited Pt/Al2O3 Selective Absorber Coatings

The Pt/Al2 O3 cermet system is extremely stable against oxidation. Therefore, effective high temperature selective absorber coatings can be formed by depositing Pt/Al2 O3 cermets onto Pt low emittance base layers. Three Pt/Al2 O3 cermet configurations have been investigated for photothermal receiver applications: (1) cermets with graded Pt composition and Al2 O3 antireflection layers; (2) cermets with uniform Pt compositions and Al2 O3 antireflection layers; and (3) Al2 O3 -M-Al2 O3 multilayer coatings where the M-layer is a Pt/Al2 O3 mixture containing about 20 volume percent Al2 O3 . The coatings were deposited by cosputtering from Pt and Al2 O3 sources. Both direct rf sputtering from an alumina target and Ar-O2 dc reactive sputtering from an aluminum target were investigated as methods for depositing the Al2 O3 components of the cermet and the antireflection layers. Cr, Mo, Ta, W, and ZrB2 were investigated as alternative low emittance base layer materials. Most of the coatings were deposited onto flat plates of glass, although type 316 stainless steel, type 1020 low carbon steel, and Incoloy 800 substrates were also examined. Hemispherical absorptances as high as 0.97, with room temperature emittances in the 0.06 to 0.08 range, were achieved. The optical properties of the coatings with rf-sputtered Al2 O3 , and Pt low emittance base layers were stable at 600° C in air for as long as 2000 hr, consistent with data for evaporated Pt/Al2 O3 coatings reported by Cornell University. The coatings with reactive sputtered aluminum oxide, or alternative base layers such as Mo, exhibited somewhat reduced thermal stability but should be adequate for intermediate temperature applications (up to 400° C in air).
Determining release rates of 3-methyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one antiaggregation pheromone ofDendroctonus pseudotsugae (Coleoptera:Scolytidae)

A method of analysis using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) with an ultraviolet detector was developed for determining release rates of the antiaggregation pheromone ofDendroctonus pseudotsugae Hopkins, 3-methyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one (MCH), in controlled-release formulations. The pheromone released by the formulations was swept from the test apparatus, trapped on Porapak-QS packing, and eluted with solvent. Aliquots of the eluate were analyzed by liquid chromatography. Release rates of 5–400 μg MCH/hr per g formulation were determined from 5-g samples of the controlled-release formulations.
Angiotensin II Stimulates Thick Ascending Limb NO Production via AT2 Receptors and Akt1-dependent Nitric-oxide Synthase 3 (NOS3) Activation

Abstract Angiotensin-II (Ang II) acutely stimulates thick ascending limbs (TALs) NO via an unknown mechanism. In endothelial cells, activation of AT2 stimulates NO. Akt1 activates NOS3 by direct phosphorylation. We hypothesized that Ang II stimulates TAL NO production via AT2-mediated Akt1 activation, which phosphorylates NOS3 at serine-1177. We measured NO production by fluorescence microscopy. In isolated TALs, Ang II (100nM) increased NO production by 10.3±2.3 fluorescence units/min (f.u./min)(p<0.01). Ang II increased cGMP accumulation by 4.9±1.3 fmol/μg (p<0.01). On adding the AT2 antagonist PD123319 (1μM), Ang II failed to stimulate NO (0.9±2.7 f.u./min; p<0.001 vs. Ang II); adding the AT1 antagonist losartan (1μM) resulted in Ang II stimulating NO by 8.9±0.7 f.u./min. Akt inhibitor (5μM) blocked Ang II-stimulated NO (-0.1±0.2 f.u./min vs. inhibitor alone). PhosphoAkt1 increased by 72% after 5 min (p<0.006), returning to basal after 10 min. PhosphoAkt2 did not change after 5 min but increased by 115 and 163% after 10 and 15 min (p<0.02). PhosphoAkt3 did not change. An AT2 agonist increased pAkt1 by 78% (p<0.02), PI3-kinase inhibition blocked this effect. In TALs transduced with dominant negative Akt1, Ang II failed to stimulate NO (1.0±1.9 f.u./min vs. 11.7±1.6 for controls; p<0.001). Ang II increased phosphoNOS3 at serine-1177 by 130% (p <0.01) and 150% after 5 and 10 min (p <0.02). Ang II increased phosphoNOS3 at serine-633 by 50% after 5 min (p<0.01). Akt inhibition prevented NOS3 phosphorylation. We concluded that Ang II enhances TAL NO production via activation of AT2 and Akt1-dependent phosphorylation of NOS3 at serines 1177 and 633.
A method for clustering transient data streams

This paper describes a novel method for clustering single and multi-dimensional data streams. With incremental computation of the incoming data, our method determines if the cluster formation should change from an initial cluster formation. Four main types of cluster evolutions are studied: cluster appearance, cluster disappearance, cluster splitting, and cluster merging. We present experimental results of our algorithms both in terms of scalability and cluster quality, compared with recent work in this area.
Prospective Randomized Evaluation of Periureteral Botulinum Toxin Type A Injection for Ureteral Stent Pain Reduction

Purpose: The use of ureteral stents for ureteral obstruction and after ureteroscopy can result in substantial deterioration in patient quality of life due to pain, frequency and urgency. We postulated that many stent related symptoms may be related to detrusor muscle spasm in and around the intramural ureter, and evaluated the effect of botulinum toxin type A (Botox®) in patients with indwelling stents after ureteroscopy.Materials and Methods: A total of 51 patients between December 2007 and March 2009 were enrolled in an institutional review board approved, prospective, randomized, single-blind study comparing botulinum toxin type A injection at a concentration of 10 U/ml to 3 locations around the ureteral orifice (30) vs no injection after unilateral ureteral stent insertion (21). Pain and urinary symptoms after stent placement were evaluated through the Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire, which was completed on postoperative day 7. In addition, patients were required to maintain a log of narcotic use...
On a query algorithm for a divisibility problem

According to an old result of Turan, any (n + 1)-subset of {1, 2, ..., 2n} contains a pair of divisible numbers. Ciurea et al. have recently considered a natural algorithmic variant of this classic mathematical result: if the subset is not known, and it is only accessible via a membership oracle, what is the minimum number of questions necessary to identify one such divisible pair? They showed a 4/3n -- O(1) lower bound and also designed an algorithm which they conjectured asks no more than 4/3n + O(1) queries, and therefore would be optimal. We reanalyze the proposed algorithm and prove that it comes close to the conjectured value, in asking no more than (4/3 + 5/108)n + O(1) queries; this corrects an error in the old analysis.
Optimal Allocation of Dynamic VAR Support Using Mixed Integer Dynamic Optimization

Dynamic security of power systems is a major concern during contingencies, especially in present environment when there is inadequate transmission line capacity and dynamic reactive power support. This paper addresses dynamic VAR allocation to ensure acceptable transient voltage performance and short-term stability against severe contingency. To filter out severe contingency, severity indices are proposed. An algorithm based upon trajectory sensitivity analysis is used to select candidate VAR locations. The overall problem is formulated (in dynamic framework) as mixed integer dynamic optimization (MIDO). To solve MIDO problem, it is converted into mixed integer nonlinear problem (MINLP) by complete discretization using simultaneous discretization approach. The effectiveness of proposed approach is illustrated using New England 39-bus system.
The scrotal hitch for hemostasis and edema prevention in scrotal surgery.

Postoperative hematoma, edema, and ecchymosis are the most common complications in scrotal surgery. Without proper hemostasis intraoperatively or appropriate scrotal compression postoperatively, significant morbidity, including re-exploration and prolonged convalescence, can occur. The scrotal hitch provides hemostasis, minimizes edema and hematomas, and reaffirms other clinicians' findings.
Flutter and Resonant Vibration Characteristics of Engine Blades: An IGTI Scholar Paper

This paper presents an in-depth study of blade vibration problems that seriously impact development of advanced gas turbine configurations. The motivation for this study arises from the author's conviction that structural integrity of powerplants is the dominant factor that influences the quality, reliability Ad marketability of the product. Implications of this study in the context of potential R&D challenges and opportunities of interest to industry, governments and academia are discussed.
Failure of Simple Clinical Measurements to Predict Perfusion Status after Intravenous Thrombolysis

Abstract To determine whether coronary patency could be detected early during thrombolytic therapy, commonly used markers of perfusion were recorded in 386 patients with acute myocardial infarction...
Sulfonic acid esters as chemosterilants of screw-worm flies with particular reference to methanediol dimethanesulfonate.

Eleven esters of alkane and arenesulfonic acid were tested as chemosterilants of screw-worm flies, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel), by topical applications and multiple oral treatments to adults less than 24 hours old. By oral administration, 7 compounds were complete or nearly complete chemosterilants, but only few to moderate numbers of treated flies survived. By topical application, only methanediol dimethanesulfonate was completely effective; the other compounds were only slightly active. When screw-worm flies were treated orally for I day or topically and mated with untreated flies, methanediol dimethanesulfonate was a highly efficient chemosterilant of males based on both survival and sterility. Orally treated males were as aggressive sexually as untreated males judged by the mortality of females resulting from harassment, and treated males competed sexually about as well as untreated males.
Inverse eigenvalue problem for real symmetric Toeplitz matrices

The inverse eigenvalue problem for real symmetric Toeplitz matrices is defined. A Newton-Raphson-type algorithm is developed for the solution of the problem. The algorithm converges unsafeguarded in all the computed cases and shows the typical behavior of Newton-type algorithms: in general quadratic convergence, linear convergence near double roots. Examples of dimension 10 and 20 are presented. Known sufficient conditions for inverse eigenvalue problems of real symmetric matrices are discussed. >
The Association Between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Nicotine Use Among Adolescents and Young Adults

Previous research indicates that youth with ADHD are more susceptible to nicotine use compared to those without ADHD and one explanation for this association is the self-medication theory. The present study examines nicotine use in a prospective sample derived from a community sampling procedure rather than a clinical setting. Nicotine use was measured through young adulthood (mean ages: 18, 20 and 22) and three groups were compared based on childhood status: ADHD-only, ADHD-extemalizers and control groups. Results indicated that at all three data points, individuals with childhood ADHD plus an externalizing disorder reported higher nicotine use on all variables compared to the ADHD group absent of an externalizing disorder and the comparison group of non-ADHD youth. The group differences were significant even after controlling for possible confounding variables (age, gender, and current treatment with psychostimulant medication). Study results are discussed in light of the self-medication hypothesis and of the importance of including nicotine prevention programs for adolescents and young adults with ADHD and externalizing problems.
Mind the widening gap: have improvements in asthma care increased asthma disparities?

Rate of emergency department (ED) care for asthma has long been used as a benchmark metric of asthma morbidity within a population. National data on asthma ED use and hospitalizations collected in the 1980s and 1990s provided alarming evidence of increasing rates of asthma morbidity across broad sections of the population, with disproportionately high rates for minority adults and children with asthma.(1) Based in part on this evidence that asthma morbidity was a significant and growing public health problem, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), professional organizations, and multiple health care organizations launched extensive national educational and health care quality initiatives to educate physicians and other health care workers about asthma and increase the use of effective controller therapies. The goal of all these diverse initiatives has ultimately been to reduce overall asthma morbidity and help all patients with asthma achieve better asthma control.
The use of GIS and remote sensing techniques as tools for managing nature reserves: the case of Kakum National Park in Ghana

Failing prices in export commodities especially in sub-Saharan Africa has compelled countries like Ghana to explore its forests and wildlife reserves for foreign exchange. The forests are now under constant threat from fire, drought and the activities of local community groups. The management of these forest reserves thus faces severe problems. Current techniques for monitoring the forests in Ghana are ineffective, inconsistent, ad hoc and unreliable. The data collection is slow and often does not lend itself to a comprehensive analysis. Using satellite remote sensing (RS) coupled with geographic information system (GIS) technologies have provided the capabilities to develop a database of information that permits systematic monitoring and an effective means of protecting the Kakum National Park in Ghana from the encroachment of local communities. Classifying the digital elevation model (DEM) for Kakum, shows the ro/spl circ/les the model plays in estimating park accessibility. The information conveyed in the DEM is of immediate assistance to park planners. A low accessibility will be associated with high elevation. The map information also shows where the park is most likely to experience damage from tourist and other activities. The use of slope and aspect maps provided an additional tool for management of the park. The depiction of slope, for instance indicated whether certain elevations faced enhanced fire risk or other hazards. The integration of SPOT satellite data with information from topographical data permitted the immediate display of terrain gradients, showing where most damage may occur due to height. This paper highlights the reports of benefits that accrued from employing RS and GIS as management tools for forest and wildlife preservation in Ghana.
When tumor cells make blood vessels: implications for glioblastoma therapy

Evaluation of: Soda Y, Marumoto T, Friedmann-Morvinski D et al. Transdifferentiation of glioblastoma cells into vascular endothelial cells. Proc. Natl Acad. Sci. USA 108, 4274–4280 (2011). The paper by Soda et al. provides experimental evidence for the plasticity of glioblasoma multiforme (GBM) cells, specifically their ability to form vascular endothelial cells (ECs). The study demonstrates the existence of tumor-derived ECs (TDECs) in GBM blood vessels of transgenic mice and humans. Blood vessels with TDECs were functional and were more frequently found in hypoxic tumor regions. In vitro hypoxic conditions enhanced the transition of tumor-initiating cells to an endothelial-like morphology and the formation of tube-like structures. Contrary to normal ECs, TDECs did not express VEGF receptors, and treatment of experimental GBM tumors with anti-VEGF/VEGF receptor agents led to an increase in the proportion of TDECs relative to normal ECs. These findings identify a new potential mechanism of resistance of G...
Tilting Micromirror With a Liquid-Metal Pivot

In this paper, we have developed a new micromirror with a compact footprint which can be rapidly tilted to large angles. The micromirror is supported by a liquid-metal drop (LMD) with low vapor pressure and is rotated by an electrostatic torque. A torsional spring model is proposed to predict the equivalent torsional constant of the LMD and the resonant frequency of the mirror. Micromirrors (1 mmtimes1 mmtimes25 mum) and actuating electrodes are microfabricated with a centralized wetting area surrounded by a nonwetting parylene area to confine the LMD. Our measurements of the mirror show the average snap-down voltage of ~ 79 V and the resonant frequency of 165 Hz. A single mirror is actuated to steer a laser beam with a maximum deflected angle of 23.6deg. A 1times3 mirror array is demonstrated for light switching, and has greater than 1 : 64 idle/deflection contrast. We also test the stability of the mirror to mechanical shake up to 56 g (g = 9.807 m/s2). The prototype mirror has 3.6 million cycles of operation
Tangled in the Web: Countertransference in the Therapy of Factitious Disorders

Objective:Patients who simulate or actually self-induce illnesses to assume the “sick role” present a number of imposing psychotherapeutic challenges. The purpose of this article is to discuss the countertransferential reactions that are mobilized in therapy with these patients.Method:Literature searches of the MEDLINE and HEALTH databases were performed using the term “factitious disorder.” The resulting citations were examined for descriptions of the potential and actual countertransference responses in therapy with such patients. The few citations with relevant material were supplemented with other clinical literature on countertransference as well as observations from cases in which the authors have served as therapists or consultants.Results:Once the medical dissimulation has been exposed, the most conspicuous difficulty is in persuading the patient to agree to therapy. When therapy does take place, both the patient's overt behaviors, such as actual bodily damage, and his or her underlying emotional ...
Microbiome Profiling by Whole Genome Sequencing During Acute and Chronic Lung Transplant Rejection

s S183 (n= 19) ExtraCorporeal Membrane Oxygenation support. The actuarial survival rates were respectively 89% (n= 162), 85,4% (n= 90), and 85,4% (n= 24) at 1, 2 and 3 years. Concerning High Emergency transplanted patients, the actuarial survival rates were respectively 80,5% (n= 34), 75,5% (n= 20), and 75,5% (n= 11) at 1, 2 and 3 years. Evolution of mean FEV1 was 76+/-19%, 81+/-22% and 69+/-26% at 1, 2 and 3 years. Conclusion: COLT is the largest study in Europe with such biocollection and prospective database. It allows establishing multicentric connections between European transplant centers, in order to identify a biological marker of CLAD. First clinical analysis of CF patients outcomes after bilateral lung transplantation are encouraging in term of morbi-mortality, even in the High Emergency LTR subgroup.
Habitat Use of Western Spotted Skunks and Striped Skunks in Texas

Abstract Little information on foraging habitats of sympatric species of skunks in Texas, USA, is available. We compared 11 western spotted skunks (Spilogale gracilis) and 10 striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis) using radiotelemetry data to assess habitat use during foraging at broad levels of selection in a fragmented habitat. Western spotted skunks used areas with more large mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa) trees than did striped skunks and randomly selected points. Striped skunk habitat use was not different from randomly chosen locations. Contrary to previous research, both species appear to avoid agricultural habitat. A habitat management plan may be difficult to implement for striped skunks in Texas because they did not favor any available habitat. Conservation of western spotted skunks in west-central Texas should focus on areas with older mesquite trees, areas that are now often brush controlled for management of livestock.
Technology as an Agricultural Pollution Control Policy

In this paper we consider the market-level impacts of factor-augmenting innovations designed to reduce the use of fertilizers and pesticides, first within the context of a simple two-factor model, and then through a simulation model of the U.S. corn market. In both models, the impacts depend on the output demand elasticity and input substitution elasticities. The principal conclusion of the simulation analysis is that the potential for new techniques to reduce the use of agricultural chemicals is limited. Capital-augmenting innovations would actually raise fertilizer and pesticide usage. Land-augmenting innovations would also tend to increase pesticide usage.
An Evolution Model for Software Modularity Assessment

The value of software design modularity largely lies in the ability to accommodate potential changes. Each modularization technique, such as aspect-oriented programming and object-oriented design patterns, provides one way to let some part of a system change independently of all other parts. A modularization technique benefits a design if the potential changes to the design can be well encapsulated by the technique. In general, questions in software evolution, such as which modularization technique is better and whether it is worthwhile to refactor, should be evaluated against potential changes. In this paper, we present a decision-tree-based framework to generally assess design modularization in terms of its changeability. In this framework, we formalize design evolution questions as decision problems, model software designs and potential changes using augmented constraint networks (ACNs), and represent design modular structure before and after envisioned changes using design structure matrices (DSMs) derived from ACNs. We formalize change impacts using an evolution vector to precisely capture well-known informal design principles. As a preliminary evaluation, we use this model to compare the aspect-oriented and object-oriented observer pattern in terms of their ability to accommodate envisioned changes. The results confirm previous published results, but in formal and quantitative ways.
Food Sovereignty, Health Sovereignty, and self-organised community viability

Food Sovereignty is a vibrant discourse in academic and activist circles, yet despite the many shared characteristics between issues surrounding food and public health, the two are often analysed in separate frameworks and the insights from Food Sovereignty are not sufficiently brought to bear on the problems in the public health discourse. In this paper, I will introduce the concept of ‘self-organised community viability’ as a way to link food and health, and to argue that what I call the ‘Health Security’ paradigm requires a ‘Health Sovereignty’ response modelled on Food Sovereignty.
Patient surveillance after initial breast cancer therapy: variation by physician specialty

BACKGROUND: American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) guidelines recommend only office visits and mammograms as the primary modalities for patient surveillance after treatment for breast carcinoma. This study aimed to quantify differences in posttreatment surveillance among medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgeons. METHODS: We e-mailed a survey to the 3,245 ASCO members who identified themselves as having breast cancer as a major focus of their practices. Questions assessed the frequency of use of 12 specific surveillance modalities for 5 posttreatment years. RESULTS: Of 1,012 total responses, 846 were evaluable: 5% from radiation oncologists, 70% from medical oncologists, and 10% from surgeons; 15% were unspecified. Marked variation in surveillance practices were noted within each specialty and among specialties. CONCLUSION: There are notable variations in surveillance intensity. This suggests overuse or underuse or misuse of scarce medical resources. Published by Elsevier Inc.
Cricoid Quartersection vs. Anterior-Posterior Cricoid Split: Effect on Subglottic Growth in Rabbits

Five-week-old New Zealand white rabbits were divided into three groups: control, anterior-posterior cricoid split with stent, and cricoid quartersection (anterior-posterior-lateral cricoid split) with stent. The stents were removed 2 weeks after placement. The rabbits were allowed to grow for six months, at which time they were killed and the larynges were studied. Average, minimal, and maximal subglottal cross-sectional areas were calculated for each animal and adjusted for weight. The cricoid quarter section group had significantly greater average, minimal, and maximal subglottal cross-sectional areas compared to controls and significantly greater minimal and maximal cross-sectional areas compared to the anterior-posterior cricoid split group. The anterior-posterior cricoid split group and the control group did not significantly differ with respect to any of the three parameters. The results indicate that anterior-posterior cricoid split and cricoid quartersection do not adversely affect subglottic grow...
Water adsorption on two-dimensional silica films

Abstract In the meanwhile several inorganic low-dimensional crystals (analog to the prototypical organic graphene) are known. A technological important example is two-dimensional (2D) silica films (silicatene); their molecular structure is well described in the literature. However, much less is known about the surface chemistry. We present experimental data to characterize water adsorption on silicatene using several known synthesis procedures. The wettability of the 2D films did in our study depend on details of the film preparation. Therefore, the hydrophobicity could be used as a simple diagnostics tool to verify the quality of silicatene films. In addition, wettability of the precursors to silicatene namely Mo(112), and O-Mo(112) were characterized.
A novel microsatellite multiplex assay for the endangered Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi)

The Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) is endemic to the Hawaiian archipelago and is among the most endangered marine mammal species in the world. Prior studies used mitochondrial and microsatellite markers to investigate broad scale conservation questions about genetic diversity and population differentiation. As Hawaiian monk seal population numbers continue to decline, outstanding fine-scale genetic questions require enhanced genotyping capacity of a rich archive of specimens. Here we integrate 24 novel polymorphic microsatellite markers into three multiplex polymerase chain reactions and provide summary statistics. The mean number of alleles was 2.625; mean expected and observed heterozygosities were 0.3586 and 0.3489, respectively; and mean polymorphic information content was 0.027. This multiplex assay contributes additional analytical power to further investigate genetic questions related to population recovery of an iconic endangered species.
The Effect of Substrate Type and 2,2’-Bipyridine on the Sorption of Copper(II) on Silica and Alumina

We have studied the co-adsorption of Cu(II) and an organic ligand, 2,2′-bipyridine (bipy), on amorphous silica (am-SiO 2 ) and γ-Al 2 O 3 (γ-alumina). This study focuses on two fundamental questions: (1) how bipy affects the macroscopic uptake behavior and molecular-scale characteristics of Cu(II) sorption complexes formed on each oxide; and (2) how and why the uptake behavior and the characteristics of Cu(II) sorption complexes differ for the two oxides. Solution uptake experiments and X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (XAFS) spectroscopy were used to answer these questions. In the absence of bipy and at a surface loading of approximately 0.05 μM/m 2 , Cu(II) adsorbs predominantly as a dimeric complex on am-SiO 2 surfaces but as a monomeric complex on γ-Al 2 O 3 . At low Cu(II) to solid ratio, bipy shifts the pH of Cu(II) sorption on am-SiO 2 to lower values, but it shifts the pH of Cu(II) sorption on γ-Al 2 O 3 to higher values. Uptake experiments and XAFS measurements on the wet sorption samples indicate that sorption of aqueous Cu(bipy) 2 on γ-Al 2 O 3 displaces one bipy from the aqueous Cu(bipy) 2 complex, while sorption on am-SiO 2 does not disrupt the complex. More detailed XAFS analysis suggests an innersphere Cu(bipy) 1 complex on γ-Al 2 O 3 and a stronger Cu-surface oxygen interaction when Cu(bipy) 2 adsorbs on γ-Al 2 O 3 than am-SiO 2 .
Effects of Self-Efficacy and Locus of Control on Future Preconception Counseling Plans of Adult Women With Type 1 Diabetes.

Objective. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that women with diabetes attend preconception counseling and improve blood glucose levels before pregnancy to decrease risks of adverse outcomes. However, two-thirds of women with diabetes do not plan their pregnancies. Research has examined views regarding preconception counseling of pregnant women with diabetes, but perceptions of women with diabetes who have never been pregnant have not been explored. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between women’s locus of control, self-efficacy, and outcome expectations of preconception counseling. Design and Methods. A sample of 147 nulligravid women with type 1 diabetes (mean age 25.9 years) was recruited online to complete a self-report survey. Measures included a sociodemographics form, a study-specific questionnaire regarding diabetes management and education, the Reproductive Health Attitudes and Behaviors instrument, and the Diabetes-Specific Locus of Control measure. Results. A standard multiple linear regression analysis indicated that self-efficacy was positively associated with expectations of preconception counseling ( P <0.001), whereas self-blame was negatively associated ( P = 0.001). Three-fourths of the women reported not receiving preconception counseling from health care providers. Conclusion. Self-efficacy was positively associated with women’s expectation of preconception counseling usefulness, whereas self-blame for poor disease management was inversely related. The low reported rates of preconception counseling demonstrate that ADA recommendations for starting preconception counseling at puberty have not been followed uniformly. Women with diabetes should be provided education to increase their belief that they have control over their disease, which may lead to positive perceptions of preconception counseling and healthier pregnancies.
Pediatric Sickle Cell Disease and Parent and Child Catastrophizing

Abstract Pain catastrophizing is poorly understood in children and adolescents with sickle cell disease (SCD) and their parents. The objectives of this study were twofold: 1) to evaluate the interplay between parent and child pain catastrophizing and its effect on disability among youth with SCD, and 2) to evaluate whether child pain catastrophizing served as a mechanism that explained the relation between pain and functional disability within the context of varying levels of parent pain catastrophizing. One hundred youth (8–18 years old) with SCD and parents completed measures of pain characteristics (pain frequency and intensity), catastrophizing (Pain Catastrophizing Scale), and the outcome of functional disability (Functional Disability Inventory) in a cross-sectional study. Youth with low levels of catastrophizing showed high levels of disability in the presence of high levels of parent catastrophizing. Additionally, child pain catastrophizing was a significant mechanism that partially explained the effect of higher pain frequency and pain intensity on greater levels of disability, but only at low levels of parent pain catastrophizing. High levels of parent catastrophizing and incongruence between child and parent catastrophizing contributes to poorer functional outcomes in youth with SCD. Perspective Youth with SCD and parents with high levels of catastrophic thinking about child pain or incongruent levels of catastrophizing are at increased risk for greater child disability. Clinicians treating youth with SCD should focus on targeting worried thinking about pain in patients and parents to facilitate improved function.
Three years of DLMF: web, math and search

DLMF was released to the public in May 2010 and is now completing its 3rd year online. As a somewhat early adopter of largescale MathML content online, and exposing a math-aware search engine to the public, the project encountered situations distinct from those with our previous web sites. In the hopes that our experiences may inform developers of current and future Digital Library projects, we describe some of our observations delivering MathML content and trends in both web usage and browser evolution. We will also look at the the ways our readers have used math search, attempting to assess whether they found what they sought, and ways the engine might be improved.
Diagnosis of building vibration sources via time-frequency analysis

Diagnosing excessive building vibration can be problematic because of long transmission paths. The excitation may be far displaced from the occupant thus increasing the number of potential sources. Source identification is further exacerbated by the intermittent behavior of the problematic excitation. Long time vibration records, on the order of many minutes, hours, or even days are sometimes required to capture a problematic event or the pattern of the problematic events. Analysis of the long time records with traditional spectral processing methods is usually not effective as the ensemble averaging clouds the intermittent features that are found objectionable by the occupants. Methods that rely on identifying peaks are also ineffective because a single transient peak is not typically the source of problem vibration levels. The Short Time Fourier Transform (STFT) is well suited to analyzing long records of building vibration because they provide the insight necessary to separate and identify intermittent excitation sources creating problematic building vibrations. This paper will describe the STFT in relation to analyzing long time record building vibration. The processing technique is applied to diagnose the source in a residence where the occupant complained about floor vibration even though no easily identifiable source was found.
Jews, “Blacks,” and the Promises of Radical Conservatism, 1919–1925

The violence and upheaval of the Great War seemed to continue even after hostilities between Britain and Germany ceased in November 1918. Frontsoldiers returned home in a violent frame of mind. “All was not right with the spirit of the men who came back,” Philip Gibbs wrote in 1920 of the veterans.
Targeting Rejection: Analysis of Specimen Acceptability and Rejection, and Framework for Identifying Interventions in a Single Tertiary Healthcare Facility

Objectives Assessment of specimen rejection rates is an important laboratory quality measure for laboratories because of a potential negative impact on patient care. Here, we examined reasons for specimen rejection at a single, tertiary care healthcare institution and propose a framework for designing an efficient intervention. Methods During a 1-year period, we identified all specimens rejected at our hospital and performed an analysis of a wide range of associated variables: reason for rejection, patient location, type of phlebotomist, tests ordered, priority status, collection container used, transport time. Results Clotted and hemolyzed specimens accounted for the majority of rejected specimens, but significant differences in reasons for specimen rejection existed between patient care areas. Eighty-five percent of rejected specimens came from the Emergency Department and eight other inpatient care areas. Registered nurses drew approximately 85% of rejected specimens, while laboratory phlebotomy staff drew only 4%. Conclusions While hemolysis and clotting are primary causes for specimen rejection, collection of all available data regarding specimen rejection data is essential for laboratories determining which factors are most significant causes of specimen rejection.
Body mass index, depression, and suicidality: The role of self-esteem in bariatric surgery candidates.

Abstract Background Previous research suggests a relationship between weight and depression/suicidality, although few studies have examined the mechanisms underlying this association. This study examined the mediating role of self-esteem in the relationship between BMI and depression/suicidality, as well as the moderating role of gender in the mediated pathways. Methods As part of a screening process in consideration for bariatric surgery, 3,101 adults (81.4% female, 18.6% male) were assessed one time. Five univariate mediation and five univariate moderated-mediation models were hypothesized and analyzed. For the mediation models, we entered five outcome variables separately: 1) severity of depressed mood, 2) diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder, 3) lifetime history of suicide attempts, 4) suicidal ideation at the time of evaluation, and 5) severity of suicidality, BMI as the independent variable, and self-esteem as the mediator. For the moderated-mediated models, gender was examined as a moderator to examine whether self-esteem was a stronger mediator for one gender, compared to the other. Results Findings supported the mediating role of self-esteem across all five outcomes. Further, the mediated effect was moderated by gender, such that the mediation effect was stronger for males, compared to females. Limitations The majority of the sample consisted of White females, limiting broad applicability of findings. All variables were assessed simultaneously, at baseline, limiting the ability to make causal attributions. Conclusions Study findings suggest that self-esteem may help explain the relationship between BMI and depression/suicidality, particularly for men. Thus, interventions targeting self-esteem may be useful for improving psychological outcomes among those presenting for bariatric surgery.