cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Digital compression of echocardiograms: Impact on quantitative interpretation of color doppler velocity

To test the impact of Joint Photographic Expert Group (JPEG) compression on the quantitative data encoded in color Doppler echocardiographic images, digital images from transesophageal echocardiography and an in vitro model of proximal flow convergence were analyzed before and after JPEG compression with compression ratios (CRs) as high as 65:1. Even at the highest CRs, greater than 95% of the pixels were categorized correctly as representing structure (gray scale) and greater than 98% were categorized correctly as representing velocity (color) data. Furthermore, the velocities and flows recovered from the compressed images agreed well (r = 0.998 [velocities] and r = 0.998 [flows] for CR = 7:1, falling to r = 0.881 [velocities] and r = 0.930 [flows] at CR = 65:1; p < 0.001 for the linear trend with CR). There was similarly little shift in the location of the red-blue aliasing contour, rising from an error of 0.05 +/- 0.19 (mean +/- SD) mm at CR = 7:1 to a maximum error of 0.11 +/- 0.36 mm at CR = 44:1. Thus JPEG compression has little impact on the quantitative velocity data encoded within color Doppler echocardiograms, which should allow widespread acceptance of digital transmission and storage.
Transfer of a neurovascular island pedical flap based upon the metacarpal artery: a case report.

A neurovascular pedicle flap from the ring finger was done successfully based on a metacarpal artery where the superficial artery was not present.
Epidemiology of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Objective When the incidence of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) infection or colonization increased in our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), we sought to further our understanding of the relationship among colonization with MSSA, endemic infection, and clonal spread. Design A retrospective cohort study was used to determine risk factors for acquisition of a predominant clone of MSSA (clone "B"). Setting A 45-bed, university-affiliated, level III-IV NICU. Patients Infants hospitalized in the NICU from October 1999 to September 2000. Interventions Infection control strategies included surveillance cultures of infants, cohorting infected or colonized infants, contact precautions, universal glove use, mupirocin treatment of the anterior nares of all infants in the NICU, and a hexachlorophene bath for infants weighing 1,500 g or more. Results During the 1-year study period, three periods of increased incidence of MSSA colonization or infection, ranging from 6.4 to 13.5 cases per 1,000 patient-days per month, were observed. Molecular typing using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis demonstrated two predominant clones, clone "B" and clone "G," corresponding to two periods of increased incidence. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that length of stay (OR, 1.035; 95% confidence interval [CI95], 1.008 to 1.062; P = .010) increased risk per day) and the use of H2-blockers (OR, 20.44; CI95, 2.48 to 168.26; P = .005) were risk factors for either colonization or infection with clone "B," and that the use of peripheral catheters was protective (OR, 0.06; CI95, 0.01 to 0.43; P= .005). Conclusions Control of MSSA represents unique challenges as colonization is expected, endemic infections are tolerated, and surveillance efforts generally focus on multidrug-resistant pathogens. Future studies should address cost-effective surveillance strategies for endemic infections.
Psychotherapy Integration and Integrative Psychotherapy: Process or Product?

From rather early in the development of the psychotherapy integration movement, there were implicit tensions between alternative understandings of the concept of psychotherapy integration and of its boundaries and aims. These tensions have been healthy and productive rather than divisive, sparking different models and different kinds of integrative efforts, but it is nonetheless important to be clear that they are tensions that persist rather than tensions that have been “resolved.” In this paper, I discuss some of the history of these competing views, some of the ways that they have been given voice, and some of the possible future directions for the psychotherapy integration movement.
A simple method for quantitation of hemolytic antibodies.

Abstract A simple and reproducible method for the quantitation of hemolytic SRBC serum is presented. The method involves the use of agar-SRBC plates, and antibody is allowed to diffuse radially. After a sufficient amount of time, the plates can be developed by the direct addition of complement. After zones of lysis were complete, the area of lysis was found to be directly proportional to the square root of the serum dilution.
The effect of Twitter exposure on false memory formation

Social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter have increased drastically in popularity. However, information on these sites is not verified and may contain inaccuracies. It is well-established that false information encountered after an event can lead to memory distortion. Therefore, social media may be particularly harmful for autobiographical memory. Here, we tested the effect of Twitter on false memory. We presented participants with a series of images that depicted a story and then presented false information about the images in a scrolling feed that bore either a low or high resemblance to a Twitter feed. Confidence for correct information was similar across the groups, but confidence for suggested information was significantly lower when false information was presented in a Twitter format. We propose that individuals take into account the medium of the message when integrating information into memory.
A new method for studying pollen dispersal using iodine-131

Pollen and pollen-vector movement was followed in preliminary field trials by labeling pollen with constant amounts of iodine-131 and tracing this labeled material by field collection and laboratory analysis of the iodine-131 present. This technique is applicable not only in tracing pollen movement in populations of plants but also in helping identify pollen-vectors.
Two mistakes regarding the principal principle

AbstractThis paper examines two mistakes regarding David Lewis’ Principal Principle that have appeared in the recent literature. These particular mistakes are worth looking at for several reasons: ...
Local infusion of brain-derived neurotrophic factor modifies the firing pattern of dorsal raphé serotonergic neurons

Previous studies have reported a neuromodulatory effect of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on serotonin neurons in the central nervous system. In the present study, we examined the effects of local infusion of BDNF on the electrophysiological activity of serotonergic neurons in the rat dorsal raphe nucleus with extracellular single unit recording in vivo. Compared with vehicle-infused rats, chronic administration of BDNF (10-14 days) caused serotonergic neurons to fire in a significantly less regular pattern, without altering the mean firing rate or other measures of electrical activity. These results suggest that the ability of similar infusions of BDNF to produce behavioral effects (i.e. analgesia and an antidepressant-like effect) associated with elevated serotonin turnover may be in part the result of more irregular firing patterns of dorsal raphe neurons.
The Virtual University approach

Abstract For over two decades now, the IOI has conducted an annual intensive training programme, on a global basis comprising 300 classroom hours plus field trips, library research and simulation exercises, for 20–25 mid-career civil servants from developing countries. The programme, one of the oldest, is still being carried out. It is broadly interdisciplinary and holistic. Always led by an outstanding scholar from a developing country, the teaching faculty consists of over 20 lecturers and discussion leaders, partly drawn from the faculty of Dalhousie University, partly from intergovernmental or governmental institutions and the private sector as well as alumni, from all over the world. The programme covers ocean law and governance in the broadest sense and is intended to assist developing countries in the implementation of the whole UNCLOS/UNCED process. Until now the course did not lead to a University degree, even though quite a number of participants went on to obtain a Master's Degree at Dalhousie University. During the last 5 years, the IOI has developed into a unique network of Operational Centres in all parts of the world. All are located at prestigious institutions, each with its own strength—some in law and policy, some in oceanography or fisheries management, some in technology. The IOI is now integrating all these efforts, and the experiences of two decades, into one innovative initiative; the establishment of the IOI Virtual University. Its Master's Degree programme will consist of a number of core courses which can be taken on-line and a number of optional courses, presently available at various IOI Centres and their Host institutions, but gradually to be developed for distance learning.
Structure and function of the small subunit of TFIIF (RAP30) from Drosophila melanogaster.

To study the mechanism of basal transcription by RNA polymerase II, a cDNA encoding the Drosophila homologue of the small subunit of TFIIF (also referred to as TFIIF30, RAP30, factor 5b, and γ) was isolated. The Drosophila TFIIF30 gene is located at region 86C on the right arm of the third chromosome. The protein encoded by the cDNA, termed dTFIIF30, was synthesized in Escherichia coli and purified to greater than 95% homogeneity. In reconstituted transcription reactions with purified basal factors, the specific activity of dTFIIF30 was identical to that of its human homologue. Moreover, a carboxyl-terminal fragment, designated dF30(119-276), which contains the carboxyl-terminal 158 amino acid residues of dTFIIF30, was found to possess approximately 50% of the transcriptional activity as full-length dTFIIF30. The interaction of dTFIIF30 with the large subunit of TFIIF (also referred to as TFIIF74, RAP74, factor 5a, and β) was investigated by glycerol gradient sedimentation analyses. In these experiments, dTFIIF30, but not dF30(119-276), assembled into a stable heteromeric complex with TFIIF74. These results, combined with those of previous work on TFIIF, support a model for TFIIF30 function in which the carboxyl-terminal region constitutes a functional domain that can interact with RNA polymerase II to mediate basal transcription, whereas the amino terminus comprises a domain that interacts with TFIIF74.
Study of reactivation of chronic hepatitis delta infection

Five patients with chronic hepatitis delta virus (HDV) infection suffered spontaneous episodes of liver enzyme elevation on a background of otherwise biochemically stable liver disease. In all five patients these episodes were accompanied by a rise in serum levels of anti-HDV IgM, HDV antigen and HDV RNA. These episodes of increased HDV replication accompanied by biochemical evidence of liver injury are reminiscent of reactivation in chronic hepatitis B. Surges of increased HDV replication may be important in the progression of liver disease in chronic HDV infection.
A comparison of assumptions used in models of the world oil market

Using the results of ten models participating in the World Oil Study and a simple recursive simulation model, this paper discusses the implications of alternative assumptions that can be used in constructing a model of the world oil market. Conclusions are that the choice of recursive simulation or intertemporal optimization model influences types of behavior and major trends in the outputs; that the inclusion of energy-economy feedback is significant in moderating the magnitude of price changes; and that alternative assumptions about the price responsiveness of non-OPEC oil production have a major impact on the projected prices. Some fruitful areas for further modeling research are suggested.
kW all-semiconductor mode-locked extreme chirped pulse amplification (XCPA) system

We report the demonstration of > kW peak power from an all-semiconductor mode-locked laser extreme chirped pulse amplification(XCPA) system implemented with a chirped fiber Bragg grating as an extreme pulse stretcher/compressor. Also, we investigate the nonlinear behavior in the XCPA system implemented with a single mode fiber pre-stretcher
Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma: Overview of Current Treatment Strategies

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is an uncommon and aggressive variant of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that involves the brain, eyes, leptomeninges, or spinal cord. Therapeutic progress has been modest, and our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that drive this disease is limited. Clinicians treating PCNSL face a challenge to balance the need to administer aggressive regimens to achieve a cure with the risks of delayed neurotoxicity after treatment. The standard treatment is a methotrexate-containing chemotherapy regimen. The timing and dose of whole-brain radiation therapy is controversial, given the significant risks of late neurotoxic effects, particularly in elderly patients.
Policy challenges for the pediatric rheumatology workforce: Part I. Education and economics

For children with rheumatic conditions, the available pediatric rheumatology workforce mitigates their access to care. While the subspecialty experiences steady growth, a critical workforce shortage constrains access. This three-part review proposes both national and international interim policy solutions for the multiple causes of the existing unacceptable shortfall. Part I explores the impact of current educational deficits and economic obstacles which constrain appropriate access to care. Proposed policy solutions follow each identified barrier.
Fetal alcohol syndrome.

1. Helen M. Thackray, MD* 2. Cynthia Tifft, MD, PhD† 1. 2. *Clinical Fellow, Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD. 3. 4. †Chair, Department of Medical Genetics, Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC. Objectives After completing this article, readers should be able to: 1. Describe the signs of fetal alcohol syndrome in the context of in utero exposure to alcohol. 2. Describe the relationship of facial characteristics and neuorobehavioral findings in fetal alcohol syndrome with age. 3. Compare and contrast the neurobehavioral aspects of children who have fetal alcohol syndrome with children who have other diagnoses and similar intelligence quotients. 4. Delineate the causes of fetal alcohol syndrome. Alcohol is the most common human teratogen, but its significant physical and neurobehavioral effects are completely preventable. Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) was described initially in case reports by Lemoine in 1968 and Jones and Smith in 1973. It is a pattern of physical, behavioral, and cognitive abnormalities seen in individuals exposed to alcohol in utero. The association between these findings and maternal use of alcohol during pregnancy has been well documented, with studies in both animals and humans suggesting teratogenicity from as little as one binge drinking episode in early pregnancy. The diagnostic criteria are not a result of fetal physical dependence or addiction or the presence of alcohol in the neonate at delivery; rather, they are teratogenic effects caused by in utero exposure to alcohol in the mother’s blood. In 1996, following a congressional mandate that the Institute of Medicine and National Academy of Sciences study FAS and related birth defects, these institutions published a review of the current understanding of FAS and revised the diagnostic criteria. Despite increased awareness of this preventable birth defect, new cases continue to occur in significant numbers and are routinely under-recognized by medical personnel. It is imperative that maternal alcohol use and its sequelae be considered and addressed in daily pediatric practice. The purpose of this article is to review the diagnosis, epidemiology, management, prognosis, and prevention of FAS. FAS represents a …
Metronomic administration of chlorambucil for treatment of dogs with urinary bladder transitional cell carcinoma.

Objective—To determine the antitumor effects and toxicoses of metronomic oral administration of a low dose of chlorambucil in dogs with transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). Design—Prospective clinical trial. Animals—31 client-owned dogs with TCC for which prior treatments had failed or owners had declined other treatments. Procedures—Chlorambucil (4 mg/m2, PO, q 24 h) was administered to dogs. Before and at scheduled times during treatment, evaluations of dogs included physical examination, CBC, serum biochemical analyses, urinalysis, thoracic and abdominal imaging including cystosonography for measurement of TCCs, and grading of toxicoses. Results—29 of 31 dogs had failed prior TCC treatment. Of the 30 dogs with available data, 1 (3%) had partial remission (≥ 50% reduction in tumor volume), 20 (67%) had stable disease (< 50% change in tumor volume), and 9 (30%) had progressive disease (≥ 50% increase in tumor volume or development of additional tumors); 1 dog was lost to follow-up. The median progression-f...
OmicsViz: Cytoscape plug-in for visualizing omics data across species

Motivation: OmicsViz is a Cytoscape plug-in for mapping and visualizing large-scale omics datasets across species, including those with many-to-many mappings between homologs. This allows users to map their data onto pathways of related model organisms. Mapping schemas across species or different experimental protocols allow users to comparatively analyze the omics data. The data can also be visualized in parallel-coordinate plots. Availability: The latest version of OmicsViz with documentation, tutorial and jar files can be downloaded from http://metnet.vrac.iastate.edu/MetNet_fcmodeler.htm Contact: ude.etatsai@deiluj
Transient effects in dynamic modulus measurement of silicone rubber, part 2: Effect of mean strains and strain history

The strain-dependent dynamic storage modulus of a poly(dimethyl-siloxane-co-methylvinyl-siloxane-co-methylphenyl-siloxane)-based silicone elastomer (PVMQ), which is reinforced with fumed silica and crosslinked with peroxide, is investigated. The time dependence of the dynamic storage modulus on the magnitude of the mean strain at a particular test condition is investigated. The dynamic modulus results are shown to depend on the time of cycling as well as the relative magnitudes of the dynamic and mean strains. The relaxation of the force required to maintain the mean strain is observed to depend on the magnitude of the dynamic strains and the data are shown to be consistent with static stress relaxation experiments in the limit of zero dynamic strain. Recovery of the dynamic modulus from the exposure to higher strain cycling is seen to be facilitated by dynamic cycling with higher cycling strains yielding faster recovery rates. The observed phenomena are interpreted in terms of the role of entanglements in the polymer phase on the dynamic behavior of the elastomer material. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 2197–2204, 2007
Electron Beam Induced Reactions of Adsorbed Cobalt Tricarbonyl Nitrosyl (Co(CO)3NO) Molecules

This study focuses on elucidating the bond breaking steps involved in the electron beam induced deposition (EBID) of nanostructures created from the organometallic precursor cobalt tricarbonyl nitrosyl (Co(CO)3NO) by studying the effect of 500 eV incident electrons on nanometer scale films of Co(CO)3NO. Experiments were performed under ultrahigh vacuum conditions, using a suite of surface analytical techniques, principally X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The purely electron stimulated reactions of Co(CO)3NO adsorbed on gold or amorphous carbon substrates at low temperatures (−168 °C) occurs in two distinct steps. The first step involves a one electron process that initiates decomposition of the nitrosyl (NO) ligand to form a nitride, accompanied by the simultaneous desorption of at least one CO ligand to create a partially decarbonylated intermediate. This first step decomposes Co(CO)3NO into a nonvolatile Co-containing compound and therefore initiates the EBID process. In the seco...
Avoiding Inferential Errors in Public Health Research: The Statistical Modelling of Physical Activity Behavior

Background: A review of the health behavior literature on the statistical modeling of days of physical activity (PA) indicates that in many instances linear regression models have been used. It is inappropriate statistically to model a count dependent variable such as days of physical activity with Ordinary Least Squares (OLS). Many count variables have skewed distributions, and, also, have a preponderance of zeroes. Count variables should not be treated as continuous and unbounded. If OLS is used, estimations of the regression will frequently turn out to be inefficient, inconsistent and biased, and such outcomes could well have incorrect impacts on health programs and policies. Methods: We considered three statistical methods for modelling the distribution of days of PA data for respondents in the 2013 Health Information Trends Survey (HINTS). The three regression models analyzed were: Ordinary Least Squares (OLS), Negative Binomial (NBRM), and Zero-inflated Negative Binomial (ZINB). We used the exact same predictor variables in the three models. Our results illustrate the differences in the results. Results: Our analyses of the PA data demonstrated that the ZINB model fits the observed PA data better than either the OLS or the NBRM models. The coefficients and standard errors differed in the zero-inflated count models from the other models. For instance, the ZINB coefficient for the association between income and PA behavior was not statistically significant (p>0.05), whereas in the NBRM and in the OLS models, it was statistically significant (p<0.05). Conclusions: The inappropriate use of regression models could well lead to wrong statistical inferences. Our analyses of the number of days of moderate PA demonstrated that the ZINB count model fits the observed PA data much better than the OLS model and the NBRM.
Intention-to-Treat Analyses in Behavioral Medicine Randomized Clinical Trials

Intention-to-treat (ITT) is an analytic approach where all randomized participants are included in analyses and in their originally assigned condition, regardless of adherence or protocol deviation. The present study aimed to determine whether reporting and correct use of ITT in behavioral medicine randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published in behavioral journals has improved in recent years. ITT and related analytic conventions were examined in behavioral medicine RCTs (N = 87) published in Annals of Behavioral Medicine, Health Psychology, and the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology in the years 2000–2003 and then again in 2006–2007. Logistic regression analyses tested whether ten indicators associated with ITT were being used increasingly over time. Also tested was whether reporting and correct use of ITT improved following the adoption of Consolidated Standards of Reporting Clinical Trials (CONSORT) statement. Results revealed that less than half of RCTs (42%) used ITT analyses correctly. Over time, reporting of sample size estimation and primary outcome as well as use of the term “ITT” to describe analyses improved; however, correct implementation of ITT did not. Improvement was not specifically attributable to CONSORT adoption. Investigators’ claims of using ITT analyses have increased over time, but correct use of ITT has not.
Comparing Generic and Innovator Drugs: A Review of 12 Years of Bioequivalence Data from the United States Food and Drug Administration

Background:In the US, manufacturers seeking approval to market a generic drug product must submit data demonstrating that the generic formulation provides the same rate and extent of absorption as (ie, is bioequivalent to) the innovator drug product. Thus, most orally administered generic drug products in the US are approved based on results of one or more clinical bioequivalence studies.Objective:To evaluate how well the bioequivalence measures of generic drugs approved in the US over a 12-year period compare with those of their corresponding innovator counterparts.Methods:This retrospective analysis compared the generic and innovator bioequivalence measures from 2070 single-dose clinical bioequivalence studies of orally administered generic drug products approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from 1996 to 2007 (12 y). Bioequivalence measures evaluated were drug peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the plasma drug concentration versus time curve (AUC), representing drug rate and ex...
The Value of Transvaginal Ultrasound and Doppler in the Evaluation of Ovarian Teratomas

Detection of ovarian teratomas can be a challenge to the sonographer. This case report demonstrates the value of transvaginal scanning and Doppler methods to improve detection and evaluation of these pelvic masses.
Multilayered ALD HfAlO x and HfO 2 for High-Quality Gate Stacks

This paper has demonstrated a high-quality HfO2-based gate stack by depositing atomic-layer-deposited HfAlOx along with HfO2 in a layered structure. In order to get a multifold enhancement of the gate stack quality, both Al percentage and distribution were observed by varying the HfAlOx layer thickness and its location in the gate stack. It was found that $ incorporation can result in up to 18% reduction in the average EOT along with up to 41% reduction in the gate leakage current, as compared to the dielectric with no Al content. On the other hand, excess Al presence in the interfacial layer moderately increased the interface state density $\boldsymbol{D}_{\boldsymbol{it}} $ . When devices were stressed in the gate injection mode at a constant voltage stress, the dielectrics with $\mbox{Al}/(\mbox{Hf}\!+\!\mbox{Al})\% \! showed resistance to stress-induced flatband voltage shift $\boldsymbol{\Delta}\boldsymbol{V}_{\boldsymbol{FB}} $ , and stress-induced leakage current. The time-dependent dielectric breakdown characteristics showed a higher charge to breakdown and an increase in the extracted Weibull slope $\boldsymbol{\beta} $ , which further confirms an enhanced dielectric reliability for devices with $ .
Relational Exchange Norms, Perceptions of Unfairness, and Retained Hostility in Commercial Litigation

Relational Exchange Theory suggests that the norms that govern commercial exchange behavior in discrete transactions are markedly different from those in relational exchange. When parties to commercial exchange become involved in a manifest conflict episode, it might be expected that the types of norms that govern their relationship will affect their characterization of each other's conflict behavior. This article proposes a model of conflict in commercial exchange relationships. The model focuses on how the prevailing exchange norms of solidarity, role integrity, and mutuality impact a party's perception of unfair treatment, and how causal attributions mediate those effects. The perception of unfairness is then linked to the level of hostility that is retained after the conflict episode ostensibly has been terminated. Several hypotheses are tested using a sample of firms engaged in contract litigation. The norm of solidarity and its interaction with the causal attribution measure are found to be signific...
GENETIC STRUCTURE OF SOUTHERN APPALACHIAN "SKY ISLAND" POPULATIONS OF THE SOUTHERN RED-BACKED VOLE (MYODES GAPPERI)

Abstract Sequence data from a 597–base pair region of the mitochondrial DNA control region and data for 19 presumed allozyme loci were used to examine genetic structure and to detect gene flow among populations of southern red-backed voles (Myodes gapperi, formerly known as Clethrionomys gapperi) inhabiting spruce–fir “sky-islands” in the southern Appalachians. Allozyme data showed a significant heterozygote deficiency for most populations. Average individual heterozygosity varied among populations from 1.75% to 16.78% (X ± SE = 8.63% ± 2.03%). FST values between any 2 sites ranged from 0.100 to 0.517 (X ± SE = 0.296 ± 0.026), with a significant metapopulation FST value = 0.599. Nei's genetic distances (based on allozyme data) among spruce–fir habitats ranged from 0.037 to 0.310 (X ± SE = 0.139 ± 0.079). Analysis of molecular variance permitted determination of the extent of geographic subdivision of mitochondrial haplotypes for 3 hierarchically organized sampling regimes: 14 high-altitude sample sites...
Oxidized low density lipoproteins in atherogenesis: role of dietary modification.

The development of atherosclerosis is a complex and multistep process. There are many determinants in the pathogenesis of this condition, with different factors presumably playing key roles at different times in the evolution of the atherosclerotic plaque. It has been suggested that oxidation of low density lipoproteins (LDL) by cells in the artery wall leads to a proatherogenic particle that may help initiate early lesion formation. For this reason, understanding the determinants of LDL susceptibility to oxidation is essential for developing therapeutic strategies to inhibit this process. Oxidation of LDL begins with the abstraction of hydrogen from polyunsaturated fatty acids; thus, LDL fatty acid composition undoubtedly contributes to the process of LDL oxidation. Since dietary fatty acids influence the fatty acid composition of LDL and cell membranes, the amount and type of fat in the diet may effect susceptibility of LDL and cells to oxidative damage. Additionally, since cell membrane fatty acid comp...
Renal interstitial Ca2

Renal interstitial fluid Ca2+concentration ([Ca2+]isf) was measured in anesthetized Wistar rats by using in situ microdialysis. During perfusion of 20 cm of the proximal small intestine with Ca2+-f...
Practice Patterns and Outcomes Associated with Choice of Initial Vasopressor Therapy for Septic Shock

Objectives Clinical guidelines recommend norepinephrine as initial vasopressor of choice for septic shock, with dopamine suggested as an alternative vasopressor in selected patients with low risk of tachyarrhythmias and absolute or relative bradycardia. We sought to determine practice patterns and outcomes associated with vasopressor selection in a large, population-based cohort of patients with septic shock that allows for assessment of outcomes in clinically important subgroups. Design We performed a retrospective cohort study to determine factors associated with choice of dopamine as compared with norepinephrine as initial vasopressor for patients with septic shock. We used propensity score matching to compare risk of hospital mortality based on initial vasopressor. We performed multiple sensitivity analyses using alternative methods to address confounding and hospital-level clustering. We investigated interaction between vasopressor selection and mortality in clinical subgroups based on arrhythmia and cardiovascular risk. Setting Enhanced administrative data (Premier, Charlotte, NC) from 502 U.S. hospitals during the years 2010-2013. Subjects A total of 61,122 patients admitted with septic shock who received dopamine or norepinephrine as initial vasopressor during the first 2 days of hospitalization. Interventions None. Measurements and main results Norepinephrine (77.6%) was the most frequently used initial vasopressor during septic shock. Dopamine was preferentially selected by cardiologists, in the Southern United States, at nonteaching hospitals, for older patients with more cardiovascular comorbidities and was used less frequently over time. Patients receiving dopamine experienced greater hospital mortality (propensity-matched cohort: n = 38,788; 25% vs 23.7%; odds ratio, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.02-1.14). Sensitivity analyses showed similar results. Subgroup analyses showed no evidence for effect modification based on arrhythmia risk or underlying cardiovascular disease. Conclusions In a large population-based sample of patients with septic shock in the United States, use of dopamine as initial vasopressor was associated with increased mortality among multiple clinical subgroups. Areas where use of dopamine as initial vasopressor is more common represent potential targets for quality improvement intervention.
A Remark on the Surface Brunn–Minkowski-Type Inequality

A function w is called quasi-concave, if w(tx+(1−t)y) ≥ min{w(x), w(y)}, whenever x, y ∈ R and 0 < t < 1 (cf. e.g. [C-F] for an account on equivalent definitions and basic properties of such functions.) In particular, all log-concave functions are quasi-concave. In this case, the assumption on smoothness may be removed from the hypotheses of Theorem 1. Let A and B be convex bodies in R. Approximating these sets by smooth log-concave functions u and v, inequality (2) yields
Precision formation flying at megameter separations for exoplanet characterization

Abstract Starshade missions offer a near-term capability to measure the spectra of Earth-sized exoplanets, searching for possible bio-indicators. To function, a starshade and telescope separated by approximately 50 Mm must align to the meter-level on the line to the target star. From the telescope׳s perspective, this alignment in turn requires sensing the bearing between target star and starshade to approximately 1 milli-arcsecond (5 nrad). Previously, several fine bearing sensors have been proposed based on pupil images of the starshade׳s shadow. In this paper, a fine bearing sensor is presented based on measuring in the focal plane the bearing between a laser beacon on the starshade and the diffracted centroid of the target star that “leaks” around the starshade outside the science wavelengths. Coarse and medium bearing sensors are also introduced that allow for autonomous operation. The performance of extended Kalman filters using the bearing sensors is presented, as well as deadbanding performance in science mode.
Rupert Riedl and the Re-Synthesis of Evolutionary and Developmental Biology: Body Plans and Evolvability

This paper reviews the scientific career of Rupert Riedl and his contributions to evolutionary biology. Rupert Riedl, a native of Vienna, Austria, began his career as a marine biologist who made important contributions to the systematics and anatomy of major invertebrate groups, as well as to marine ecology. When he assumed a professorship at the University of North Carolina in 1968, the predominant thinking in evolutionary biology focused on population genetics, to the virtual exclusion of most of the rest of biology. In this atmosphere Riedl developed his ''systems theory" of evolution, which emphasizes the role of functional and developmental integration in limiting and enabling adaptive evolution by natural selection. The main objective of this theory is to account for the observed patterns of morphological evolution, such as the conservation of body plans. In contrast to other ''alternative'' theories of evolution, Riedl never denied the importance of natural selection as the driving force of evolution, but thought it necessary to contextualize natural selection with the organismal boundary conditions of adaptation. In Riedl's view development is the most important factor besides natural selection in shaping the pattern and processes of morphological evolution. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 302B: 92-102, 2004. r 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Chemistry of Soft Rubber Vulcanization. Reversion and Nonreversion in Low-Sulfur Compounds

Abstract ACCUMULATION of evidence in recent years has led to a wide acceptance of the view that, chemically, vulcanization is the establishment of cross bonds between the fiber molecules of unvulcanized rubber. The usual concept is that of a chemical cross bond typified by the sulfur bridge (4). It was recently proposed (2) that “mechanical cross bonds” might be formed by the interlocking of the molecules as they become kinked as a result of cis-trans isomerization at some of the double bonds. It was also suggested that free rotation around single bonds might unkink the molecules. This straightening of the molecules would result in reversion of the vulcanized structure. This theory suggested that a study of reversion would be of value. For this purpose low-sulfur compounds are most suitable because the number of chemically stable sulfur bridges is small. Consideration of the experiments reported here suggests the interesting possibility that in vulcanized compounds there exists a sort of dynamic equilibri...
Life History and Biology of Samea multiplicalis

The life history and biology of Samea multiplicalis was studied in Gainesville, FL. Specimens reared individually on Pistia and Salvinia at 28±1°C with a 14 h light, 10 dark photoperiod, had either 5 (64%) or 6 (36%) larval instars. The average duration of egg, larval and pupal stages was 4, 15.6 and 5.2 days respectively. Head and frons widths and stage durations are reported for each instar. S. multiplicalis has 3 main host plants in Florida: Azolla caroliniana , Pistia stratiotes and Salvinia rotundifolia . Under rare circumstances S. multiplicalis may attack Eichhornia crassipes . Oviposition was significantly higher on Pistia vs. either Salvinia or Azolia , and higher on the top of Pistia leaves rather than the bottom. Oviposition could not be induced on Eichhornia . The average number of eggs laid by females reared and mated in the laboratory was 73. Wild collected females averaged 94 eggs. The maximum number of eggs laid by a female was 291. One dipterous and 3 hymenopterous parasites were reared from S. multiplicalis . Parasitism was estimated to be 52% at Port Charlotte, FL.
Subdural fluid collections: An unusual manifestation of CNS disease in a connective tissue disorder

We describe a case of autoimmune cerebritis/meningitis presenting as altered mental status that was associated with subdural fluid collections in a connective tissue disorder patient. The fluid collections cleared following high dose corticosteroid therapy and the patient's clinical status improved promptly. Subdural fluid collections have not been previously reported as a manifestation of autoimmune CNS disease.
Advancement of Soybean Anti-nutritional Factors

Soybean had high nutritional value but the soybean anti-nutritional factors hindered the body’s nutrient absorption and utilization. Various anti-nutritional factors in soybeans and their removal methods were discussed.
Conformal vector fields on four–manifolds with negative scalar curvature

We prove a vanishing theorem for conformal vector fields on four–manifolds of negative scalar curvature. Our assumptions are conformally invariant, and in the case of locally conformally flat manifolds reduce to a sign condition on the Euler characteristic.
Colloidal volume expansion during acute cerebral ischaemia: assessed by local cerebral blood flow and computerized power ratio index.

Colloidal volume expansion during acute cerebral ischaemia was assessed by local cerebral blood flow (CBF) and the power ratio index (PRI) in 8 anaesthetized Macaque monkeys. Focal cerebral ischaemia was produced by right middle cerebral artery occlusion. The animals were then volume expanded (to maximum cardiac output) with 6% hetastarch and then exsanguinated to baseline cardiac output. During volume expansion, local CBF in the ischaemic hemisphere increased from 25 ± 12 to 39 ± 23 cc/100 g/min (p > 0.01) and during exsanguination decreased to 32 ± 18 cc/100 g/min. Local CBF did not change significantly in the nonischaemic hemisphere. EEG power data, as assessed by PRI [(delta + theta power/alpha + beta power) × 100] changed significantly during blood volume manipulation. The mean PRI value in the right hemisphere deteriorated by increasing from 65 ± 22 to 94 ± 25 (p > 0.01) following vessel occlusion but improved by decreasing to 81 ± 23 (p > 0.05) following volume expansion. Following exsanguination, ...
Genetic syndromes of the head and neck associated with cancer: what else to look for in the presence of positive orofacial findings.

Direct restorative materials have revolutionized the industry over the last several years. They offer the convenience to the patient of a one-visit procedure and they decrease overhead in the dental practice. However, it is essential to remember that direct procedures are not always the treatment of choice. For this reason, we should not discount the need for--or the value of--indirect techniques and laboratory-based procedures, such as inlays and onlays. Fit, form, and function can be more predictable when a procedure involves the ultraprecise workings of the dental laboratory--if the impression-making and other focus areas are given their due significance. This article provides key information about and clinical tips for the seven main facets of inlay/onlay fabrications that will lead to clinical success: diagnosis, tooth preparation, tissue management, impression making, temporization, laboratory communications, and final fit/occlusion.
Solution of the Linear, Gaussian Inverse Problem, Viewpoint 2: Generalized Inverses

This chapter is the second of a trio of chapters devoted to solving the canonical inverse problem, that is, the linear problem with Gaussian statistics. It views the solution of an inverse problem as an operator, called the generalized inverse, which transforms data into an estimate of the model parameters. The properties of the generalized inverse, data resolution, model resolution, and variance are defined and examples are given. The quality of the generalized inverse is quantified by the spread of its resolution and the size of its variance, and generalized inverses are derived using the minimization of spread and size as guiding principles. These solutions are shown to be equal to the weighted least squares solution. The Backus-Gilbert spread function is introduced as an alternative spread function; it better quantifies localized resolution. A new generalized inverse is developed based on this function. The way in which resolution trades off with variance is explored. Finally, practical methods of assessing the resolution of inverse problem solutions, including the checkerboard test, are discussed.
Health Benefits of Glucosinolates

Abstract There is considerable evidence from observational population studies that diets rich in cruciferous vegetables are associated with improved health benefits, which include protection from cancer incidence and progression and from cardiovascular disease. These vegetables uniquely contain the sulphur-containing phytochemicals glucosinolates, which can be hydrolysed by plants or in the human gut to isothiocyanates. It is these isothiocyanates that have been linked to their bioactivity. By far the most commonly consumed and well-studied glucosinolates within our diets are those that derive from methionine, such as sulforaphane, erucin and allyl-glucosinolates, and aromatic glucosinolates, such as phenethyl- and benzyl-glucosinolate. A significant amount of cell and animal studies suggest a role for all these in interfering with key processes that drive carcinogenesis and metastasis, but also protect cells from redox imbalance that underlies the development of several chronic inflammatory diseases. In this review I will summarize the metabolic fate of the common aliphatic and aromatic glucosinolates in humans, present the latest epidemiological evidence from metaanalyses studies and describe the mechanisms for their biological activity from cell and animal models, but also from the recent interventional studies in humans.
Magnetic Inhomogeneities in BaO B203 - Fe2O3 Oxide Glasses

Metastable oxide glasses, rich in iron oxide, are known1–7 to develop interesting magnetic properties as crystalline ferritic phases precipitate on suitable heat treatment. While some of the investigations were primarily concerned with identifying the crystalline phases formed and others studied mainly the magnetic properties, both groups implicitly assumed that the precipitates were homogeneous. In this paper we describe an investigation in which the magnetic properties and the microstructure of an inhomogeneous glass of this type produced by heat treatment were simultaneously measured. This investigation showed that the precipitates were not only bimodally distributed in size but in addition were not homogeneous in structure. Some interesting magnetic behavior due specifically to the inhomogeneity of the precipitate is described.
Secure Obfuscation in a Weak Multilinear Map Model

All known candidate indistinguishability obfuscation iO schemes rely on candidate multilinear maps. Until recently, the strongest proofs of security available for iO candidates were in a generic model that only allows "honest" use of the multilinear map. Most notably, in this model the zero-test procedure only reveals whether an encoded element is 0, and nothing more. However, this model is inadequate: there have been several attacks on multilinear maps that exploit extra information revealed by the zero-test procedure. In particular, Miles, Sahai and Zhandry Crypto'16 recently gave a polynomial-time attack on several iO candidates when instantiated with the multilinear maps of Garg, Gentry, and Halevi Eurocrypt'13, and also proposed a new "weak multilinear map model" that captures all known polynomial-time attacks on GGH13. In this work, we give a new iO candidate which can be seen as a small modification or generalization of the original candidate of Garg, Gentry, Halevi, Raykova, Sahai, and Waters FOCS'13. We prove its security in the weak multilinear map model, thus giving the first iO candidate that is provably secure against all known polynomial-time attacks on GGH13. The proof of security relies on a new assumption about the hardness of computing annihilating polynomials, and we show that this assumption is implied by the existence of pseudorandom functions in NC $$^1$$ 1.
Using a “Positive Deviance” Framework to Discover Adaptive Risk Reduction Behaviors Among High-Risk HIV Negative Black Men Who Have Sex with Men

Despite the high incidence of HIV among young Black MSM in the United States and engagement in high risk behaviors, many men in this group avoid infection. This suggests that some men may engage in systematic risk reduction behaviors when not always using condoms or abstaining from substances. Using a “positive deviance” framework, we conducted qualitative interviews with HIV-negative, Black MSM between 25 and 35 who reported unprotected anal sex and drug use in the past six months or current heavy drinking (N = 29) to discover behaviors that could facilitate remaining HIV-uninfected. Findings showed that MSM who remain HIV negative despite continuing to engage in high-risk behaviors may be engaging in adaptive risk reduction behaviors that, through successive decisions and advance planning along the timeline to a sexual event, could lead to increased condom use, avoidance or delay of a risky sexual event, or reduction of HIV positive partners.