cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A randomized clinical trial of lorazepam for the reduction of postoperative urinary retention.

Abstract Objective To estimate whether lorazepam can decrease the incidence of postoperative urinary retention after ambulatory gynecologic surgeries. Methods A randomized clinical trial at an urban academic medical center was performed. Lorazepam (1 mg) or a placebo was administered intravenously 1 hour after ambulatory gynecologic procedures. Ninety patients were randomized to receive lorazepam ( n = 47) or a placebo ( n = 43). A computer-generated random number table was used for group assignment. Concealment was maintained by the hospital pharmacy, which prepared and dispensed the medication. Physicians, nurses, and patients were blinded to the group assignment. The time of the first spontaneous void and other information about the surgery and recovery were then recorded. Results There was no difference in the overall mean time to void between the lorazepam (3.1 ± 1.2 hours) and placebo (2.8 ± 2.0 hours) groups ( P = .5). The time to void did not correlate with intravenous fluid use, length of procedure, type of procedure, narcotic use, body mass index, age, type of catheterization, or estimated blood loss. Conclusion Medium half-life benzodiazepines do not significantly reduce the incidence of postoperative urinary retention.
Factors affecting the filled-duration illusion in the auditory, tactual, and visual modalities

The filled-duration illusion was investigated for auditory, tactual, and visual presentation. The number of intervening discrete elements was the most important factor, as durations with more elements were judged longer than durations with fewer elements. In addition, the configuration of the intervening elements affected judgments. However, the illusion was identical in all three modalities. A cognitive explanation based on counting the number of intervening elements seemed most satisfactory.
Effective mobilization of hematopoietic progenitor cells in G-CSF mobilization defective CD26-/- mice through AMD3100-induced disruption of the CXCL12-CXCR4 axis.

Objective We previously reported that inhibition or loss of CD26 (DPPIV/dipeptidylpeptidase IV) results in a defect in normal mobilization of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells induced by granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF). This suggests that CD26 is a necessary component of the mobilization pathway. Our goal in this study was to determine whether mobilization can be induced by the CXCR4 antagonist AMD3100 in mice lacking CD26 (CD26 −/− ). Materials and Methods Ten week old CD26 −/− and C57BL/6 mice received a subcutaneous injection of AMD3100. One hour post-injection the mice were euthanized and peripheral blood and bone marrow were collected and evaluated. Results AMD3100 mobilizes hematopoietic progenitors into the peripheral blood of CD26 −/− and mice. Conclusions Our finding that AMD3100 rapidly mobilizes hematopoietic progenitor cells from the bone marrow into the periphery in CD26-deficient transgenic mice that otherwise exhibit a mobilization defect in response to G-CSF suggests that: (1) CD26 is downstream of G-CSF but upstream of the CXCL12-CXCR4 axis and (2) AMD3100 can be used as a single agent to mobilize hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells in normal donors or patients that have an intrinsic defect in their response to G-CSF treatment. Stem cell transplants are often the only curative treatment in some cancer patients. The ability to perform the transplantation and its success is dependent on the ability to mobilize adequate numbers of hematopoietic progenitor cells. The use of AMD3100 as a single agent would give patients or donors an additional option for a successful stem cell transplant.
Determination of Stability Constants of Hydrogen and Aluminum Fluorides with a Fluoride-Selective Electrode

The ability to directly determine free fluoride ion concentration (or mean activity) simplifies gathering and interpretation of experimental data for studies of metal complexes. In this work, the new lanthanum fluoride electrode was used to measure free fluoride ion in an investigation of the hydrogen-fluoride and aluminum-fluoride systems in NH4NO3.
Induction of murine NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin requires the CNC (cap 'n' collar) basic leucine zipper transcription factor Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2): cross-interaction between AhR (aryl hydrocarbon receptor) and Nrf2 signal transduction

TCDD (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p -dixoin) induces phase II drug-metabolizing enzyme NQO1 [NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase; EC 1.6.99.2; DT-diaphorase] in a wide range of mammalian tissues and cells. Here, we analysed the molecular pathway mediating NQO1 induction by TCDD in mouse hepatoma cells. Inhibition of protein synthesis with CHX (cycloheximide) completely blocks induction of NQO1 by TCDD as well as the basal expression and induction by phenolic antioxidant tBHQ (2-t-butylbenzene-1,4-diol), implicating a labile factor in NQO1 mRNA expression. The inhibition is both time- and concentration-dependent, requires inhibition of protein synthesis, and occurs at a transcriptional level. Inhibition of NQO1 transcription by CHX correlates with a rapid reduction of the CNC bZip (cap 'n' collar basic leucine zipper) transcription factor Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) through the 26 S proteasome pathway. Moreover, blocking Nrf2 degradation with proteasome inhibitor MG132 increases the amount of Nrf2 and superinduces NQO1 in the presence of TCDD or tBHQ. Finally, genetic experiments using AhR (aryl hydrocarbon receptor)-, Arnt (aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator)- or Nrf2-deficient cells reveal that, while induction of NQO1 by TCDD depends on the presence of AhR and Arnt, the basal and inducible expression of NQO1 by either TCDD or tBHQ requires functional Nrf2. The findings demonstrate a novel role of Nrf2 in the induction of NQO1 by TCDD and provide new insights into the mechanism by which Nrf2 regulates the induction of phase II enzymes by both phenolic antioxidants and AhR ligands.
Effects of the Interaction of Caffeine and Water on Voice Performance: A Pilot Study

The objective of this pilot investigation was to study the effects of the interaction of caffeine and water intake on voice as evidenced by acoustic and aerodynamic measures, to determine whether i...
Precisely modulated pathogenicity island interference with late phage gene transcription

Having gone to great evolutionary lengths to develop resistance to bacteriophages, bacteria have come up with resistance mechanisms directed at every aspect of the bacteriophage life cycle. Most genes involved in phage resistance are carried by plasmids and other mobile genetic elements, including bacteriophages and their relatives. A very special case of phage resistance is exhibited by the highly mobile phage satellites, staphylococcal pathogenicity islands (SaPIs), which carry and disseminate superantigen and other virulence genes. Unlike the usual phage-resistance mechanisms, the SaPI-encoded interference mechanisms are carefully crafted to ensure that a phage-infected, SaPI-containing cell will lyse, releasing the requisite crop of SaPI particles as well as a greatly diminished crop of phage particles. Previously described SaPI interference genes target phage functions that are not required for SaPI particle production and release. Here we describe a SaPI-mediated interference system that affects expression of late phage gene transcription and consequently is required for SaPI and phage. Although when cloned separately, a single SaPI gene totally blocks phage production, its activity in situ is modulated accurately by a second gene, achieving the required level of interference. The advantage for the host bacteria is that the SaPIs curb excessive phage growth while enhancing their gene transfer activity. This activity is in contrast to that of the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs), which totally block phage growth at the cost of phage-mediated gene transfer. In staphylococci the SaPI strategy seems to have prevailed during evolution: The great majority of Staphylococcus aureus strains carry one or more SaPIs, whereas CRISPRs are extremely rare.
Thrombogenic role of cells undergoing apoptosis

Apoptosis is involved in many biological processes, especially during chemotherapy in cancer patients. Chemotherapy is also associated with an increased risk of thrombosis. The relationship between thrombogenicity and apoptosis was studied in various human tumour cell lines and non-tumour cell lines. Apoptosis was induced by the chemotherapeutic agent camptothecin and by Fas ligand, then quantified by staining with fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated annexin V and propidium iodide. A significant correlation between thrombin generation and degree of apoptosis was observed (P < 0·0005). Addition of anti-tissue factor antibody in excess or of tissue factor pathway inhibitor partially inhibited thrombin generation, suggesting that tissue factor activation was responsible for this process. A statistical correlation between tissue factor activity and degree of apoptosis was also found (P < 0·005). Both thrombin generation and tissue factor activity were blocked by the addition of annexin V, which binds and inhibits phosphatidylserine. This indicates that the exteriorization and exposure of phosphatidylserine on the cell surface membrane during apoptosis were essential for both thrombin generation and tissue factor activation.
Collaborative audio enhancement using probabilistic latent component sharing

This paper presents a collaborative audio enhancement system that aims to recover common audio sources from multiple recordings of a given audio scene. We do so in the context where each recording is uniquely corrupted. To this end, we propose a method of simultaneous probabilistic latent component analyses on synchronized inputs. In the proposed model, some of the parameters are fixed to be same during and after the learning process to capture common audio content while the rest models unwanted recording-specific interferences and artifacts. Our model also allows for prior knowledge about the parameters of the model, e.g. representative spectra of the components, to be incorporated in the factorization. A post processing scheme that consolidates the extracted sources from the set of inputs is also proposed to handle the possible loss of certain frequency regions. Experiments on commercial music signals with various artifacts show the merit of the proposed method.
Effective diffusivity and water-saturation distribution in single- and two-layer PEMFC diffusion medium

Abstract The formation–distribution of condensed water in diffusion medium of proton exchange membrane fuel cells, and its tendency to reduce the local effective mass diffusivity and to influence cell performance, are studied. First the local effective mass diffusivity of a fibrous diffusion medium is determined as a function of the local porosity and local water saturation, using the network model for species diffusion. Then using this along with the hydrodynamics of capillary, two-phase flow in hydrophobic porous media, the water formation rate (hydrogen–oxygen reaction), and condensation kinetics, the one-dimensional distribution of water saturation is determined and roles of fiber diameter, porosity, and capillary pressure on cell performance are explored. The results point to a two-layer medium (similar to the added conventional microlayer) which is then analyzed for optimum performance.
Fluconazole, D0870, and flucytosine treatment of disseminated Candida tropicalis infections in mice

D0870 is a recently developed triazole with characteristics of a broad spectrum of activity and slow clearance by nonrenal mechanisms. Herein we have evaluated the efficacy of D0870, alone and combined with flucytosine, in a murine model of disseminated Candida tropicalis infection. Four isolates of C. tropicalis were evaluated. Two were highly susceptible in vitro to fluconazole, and two were resistant to fluconazole. All were highly susceptible to flucytosine and D0870. Animals were pretreated with 5-fluorouracil 1 day before infection because C. tropicalis has reduced virulence in immunocompetent mice. This was done to render them neutropenic for > 10 days. Mice were infected intravenously and treated orally with D0870 or fluconazole, alone or combined with flucytosine. Survival and tissue burden of the spleen and kidneys were used to evaluate the efficacy of antifungal therapy. Fluconazole was less effective for treatment of resistant C. tropicalis than susceptible C. tropicalis. D0870 was more potent than fluconazole and was effective in fluconazole-resistant isolates. Flucytosine was consistently effective when used alone but did not consistently add to the benefit of D0870 or fluconazole. D0870 has potential in treatment of candidiasis caused by C. tropicalis, including fluconazole-resistant isolates.
Aggressive Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Kindler Syndrome: An Unusual Case

A 57-year-old Hispanic man with a personal and family history of bullae and photosensitivity, presented with a fungating, ulcerated Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) on his left hand. Physical exam showed conjunctival injection, urethral stricture, symblepharon, loss of teeth, short stature, nail dystrophy and extensive poikiloderma. Excision and lymph node dissection showed moderate to poorly differentiated deeply invasive SCC, necessitating an amputation. Two of three axillary lymph nodes were positive. A random biopsy of the trunk showed epidermal atrophy, telangiectasia and pigment laden macrophages consistent with poikiloderma. Electron microscopy (EM) illustrated extensive reduplication of the basement membrane with loops, curls and free extensions of the basal lamina in the superficial dermis, reduced numbers of hemidesmosomes and anchoring fibrils, and a basement membrane focally devoid of basal cells. On the basis of the clinical features and the characteristic basement zone changes, a diagnosis of Kindler Syndrome (KS) was rendered. KS is a rare autosomal recessive photosensitivity disorder which contains features of both congenital poikiloderma and dystrophic epidermolytic bullosa, and has unique EM features. Despite the photosensitivity, few cases of malignancy in KS have been reported.
Functional Yield Estimation of Carbon Nanotube-Based Logic Gates in the Presence of Defects

Carbon nanotube field-effect transistor (CNFET) is one of the most promising candidates for a building block of post silicon era integrated circuits. One of the major challenges faced by the CNFET is the presence of unwanted metallic tubes that adversely impacts the delay, power, and functional yield of carbon nanotube (CNT) based circuits. In this paper, we present tradeoff between these parameters with the help of Monte Carlo simulations for basic logic gates designed using four different configurations of CNFET including two stacking configurations that we originally proposed in 2008. We present newly developed analytical models to estimate the functional yield of logic gates designed using four different configurations of CNFET. The absolute difference in functional yield magnitudes between the Monte Carlo simulations and analytical models for different percentage of metallic tubes and different drive strength of logic gates is 0% to 0.9% for inverter and 0% to 2.5% for NAND/NOR gates. Results indicate that the proposed stacking configurations have the potential to increase the functional yield by as much as 2X for inverter and 10X for NAND gate. This increase in functional yield was observed for 10X lower static power and for 4.1X-4AX delay penalty under iso-input capacitance.
ACMOS: an adaptive CMOS high performance logic

CMOS technology has been widely used for VLSI design. For high speed designs, BiCMOS technology has been proposed. However, BiCMOS technology is more complex to build, and is not very scalable below 2 V. The author proposes a new paradigm for VLSI design, which improves the speed, and yet employs only CMOS technology. This is accomplished by using two different threshold voltages for each of the pMOS and nMOS transistors. >
Effect of age on brain oxygenation regulation during changes in position

Abstract Introduction Reports indicate that brain regulation of oxygenation is inhibited in patients with low baseline oxyhemoglobin concentrations and that brain oxyhemoglobin concentrations are decreased with aging. The purpose of this study was to determine if regulation of brain oxygenation to changes in blood pressure is inhibited by normal aging. Methods Brain oxyhemoglobin (OHb) and deoxyhemoglobin (HHb) concentrations were determined from the forehead using a frequency domain near infrared spectroscopy in 27 healthy volunteers. Subjects were separated into two groups by age (20–39, n = 16; 40–60, n = 11). Brain hemoglobin and non-invasive blood pressure were measured in (1) supine, (2) sitting, (3) supine and (4) sitting positions with 10-min equilibration intervals between each determination. Statistical differences were determined by two way repeated measures analysis of variance. Results Young subjects were 28 ± 5 years (mean ± S.D.) and older subjects were 48 ± 6 years. In supine position, OHb and HHb were 28.4 ± 8.3 and 15.4 ± 2.4 μmol/L, respectively, in young; 22.4 ± 5.7 and 13.4 ± 2.9 μmol/L, respectively, in older subjects, both P Conclusions There was a small but significant decrease in OHb and an increase in HHb from supine to sitting position, and this effect was similar between young and older subjects. Regulation of brain oxygenation during modest decreases in blood pressure did not change in normal aging to 60 years compared to young adults.
Glacial morphology and depositional sequences of the Antarctic continental shelf

We propose a simple model for the unusual depositional sequences and morphology of the Antarctic continental shelf. Our model considers the regional stratal geometry and the reversed morphology of the Antarctic continental shelf to be principally the results of time-integrated effects of glacial erosion and sedimentation related to the location of the ice grounding line. The model offers several guidelines for stratigraphic interpretation of the Antarctic shelf and a Northern Hemisphere shelf, both of which were subject to many glacial advances and retreats.
Statics and Dynamics of the Random Field Ising Model (Theory)

I will give in this lecture an introductory overview of our present understanding of the Random Field Ising Model (RFIM). As this is a subject of a large literature and a long, turbulent history, I will restrict myself to a small number of topics, whose choice is very subjective. In particular, I will neither discuss experimental nor numerical work, except when it cannot be avoided. It is, however, important to realize why such a disproportionately large amount of attention has been devoted to this model. The first reason is that the RFIM is the simplest model which incorporates the dramatic effect of quenched-in disorder coupled linearly to an order-parameter. This effect has been seen in a steadily growing list of experiments (1). It was extensively studied for the first time in diluted antiferromagnets in a magnetic field (2) but the RFIM is now used to explain how impurities affect displacive transitions, how phase separation of binary fluids proceeds in porous media or gels, and how hydrogen dissolves in metallic alloys. Random fields also play an important role in charge-density wave systems.
Interactive analysis of gene interactions using Graphical Gaussian Model

DNA microarray provides a powerful basis for analysis of gene expression. Data mining methods such as clustering have been widely applied to microarray data to link genes that show similar expression patterns. However, this approach usually fails to unveil gene-gene interactions in the same cluster. Association rule mining and loglinear models have been used for this purpose, but their inherent limitations as well as information loss due to discretization limit the applicability of the results. Here we propose the use of a Graphical Gaussian Model to discover pairwise gene interactions. We have constructed a prototype system that permits rapid interactive exploration of gene relationships; results can be validated by experts or known information, or suggest new experiments. We have tested our methodology using the yeast microarray data. Our results reveal some previously unknown interactions that have solid biological explanations.
RECURRENT IDIOPATHIC THROMBOCYTOPENIC PURPURA IN CHILDHOOD

INTRODUCTION: Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is usually a benign disease that remits within weeks to years. The literature on recurrent ITP (rITP) is limited. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to retrospectively review patients with rITP who were followed up during the period of 1975–2004. METHODS: We reviewed the outcome of 790 children with rITP RESULTS: Among 790 children with ITP, 47 (5.2%) presented with >1 episode of thrombocytopenia. The median age of the children at onset of the disease was 55.9 ± 35.3 months and at final remission was 94.4 ± 58.9 months. The majority of patients (76.6%) had 1 recurrence, whereas the rest of them had >1 recurrence (up to 4); the total number of recurrences was 63. The interval between 2 episodes was 3 years in 14%. Almost half the patients demonstrated bleeding manifestations at diagnosis, whereas only a minority (5) showed bleeding symptoms during the first recurrence. Hemorrhages occurred at times of severe thrombocytopenia and were, in general, mild; however, 1 patient suffered intracranial hemorrhage. Of the episodes, 28.6% necessitated hospitalization and 17.5% required therapeutic intervention with corticosteroids or/and intravenous immunoglobulin. The long-term outcome of all patients was excellent, and none of them needed splenectomy. CONCLUSIONS: rITP occurs mostly in young children, has a good outcome after >1 to 5 episodes, and a median age that ranges from months to years. The course is more often benign; however, life-threatening hemorrhage may occur in a severely thrombocytopenic patient.
Stereoscopic Surface Perception

Physiological, computational, and psychophysical studies of stereopsis have assumed that the perceived surface structure of binocularly viewed images is primarily specified by the pattern of binocular disparities in the two eyes' views. A novel set of stereoscopic phenomena are reported that demonstrate the insufficiency of this view. It is shown that the visual system computes the contrast relationships along depth discontinuities to infer the depth, lightness, and opacity of stereoscopically viewed surfaces. A novel theoretical framework is introduced to explain these results. It is argued that the visual system contains mechanisms that enforce two principles of scene interpretation: a generic view principle that determines qualitative scene geometry, and anchoring principles that determine how image data are quantitatively partitioned between different surface attributes.
Simplified Homodyne Detection for Linear FM Lidar

A fiber based lidar system is developed which simplifies the processing of linear FM pulses by using a modulated local oscillator power in the coherent detector. Experiments were conducted on lidar systems with direct, heterodyne and simplified homodyne detection to compare receiver sensitivity. A field experiment using the homodyne system verified the sensitivity estimation on a building target at 370-m range.
Adaptive control of piecewise linear systems with applications to NASA GTM

Nonlinear plants with their operating range covering multiple trim points are modeled as piecewise linear systems, where variations in operating points are modeled as switches between constituent linearized system dynamics. The adaptive state feedback for state tracking control problem for such systems is studied, for which piecewise linear reference model systems are used to generate desired state trajectories. Adaptive control schemes are developed, and it is proved that asymptotic tracking performance can be achieved if the reference input is sufficiently rich and the switches are sufficiently slow. Stability and tracking performance of the proposed adaptive control schemes are analyzed and evaluated on the high-fidelity Simulink model of the Generic Transport Model (GTM) developed at NASA Langley.
Embedded phenomena: supporting science learning with classroom-sized distributed simulations

'Embedded phenomena' is a learning technology framework in which simulated scientific phenomena are mapped onto the physical space of classrooms. Students monitor and control the local state of the simulation through distributed media positioned around the room, gathering and aggregating evidence to solve problems or answer questions related to those phenomena. Embedded phenomena are persistent, running continuously over weeks and months, creating information channels that are temporally and physically interleaved with, but asynchronous with respect to, the regular flow of instruction. In this paper, we describe the motivations for the framework, describe classroom experiences with three embedded phenomena in the domains of seismology, insect ecology, and astronomy, and situate embedded phenomena within the context of human-computer interaction research in co-located group interfaces and learning technologies.
A Graphical Model Formulation of the DNA Base-Calling Problem

A first order variable dependence (FOVD) probabilistic graphical model is introduced to capture the complex inter-event dependencies that are present in DNA sequencing data. In this framework, DNA base-calling is addressed as a parameter estimation problem using maximum likelihood methods. The FOVD model accounts for dependencies between neighboring alleles and statistically characterizes the size of signal peaks. Our experimental results suggest that the resulting unsupervised classification base-calling algorithms (i) achieve accuracy that exceeds on average that of the-state-of-the art base-callers, (ii) work well for a variety of data set types without requiring costly recalibration
Comparison of Positively and Negatively Charged Achiral Co-Monomers Added to Cyclodextrin Monolith: Improved Chiral Separations in Capillary Electrochromatography

Cyclodextrins (CDs) and their derivatives have been one of the most popular and successful chiral additives used in electrokinetic chromatography because of the presence of multiple chiral centers, which leads to multiple chiral interactions. However, there has been relatively less published work on the use of CDs as monolithic media for capillary electrochromatography (CEC). The goal of this study was to show how the addition of achiral co-monomer to a polymerizable CD such as glycidyl methacrylate β-cyclodextrin (GMA/β-CD) can affect the enantioselective separations in monolithic CEC. To achieve this goal, polymeric monoliths columns were prepared by co-polymerizing GMA/β-CD with cationic or anionic achiral co-monomers [(2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid (AMPS) and vinyl benzyltrimethyl-ammonium (VBTA)] in the presence of conventional crosslinker (ethylene dimethacrylate) and ternary porogen system including butanediol, propanol and water. A total of 34 negatively charged compounds, 30 positively charged compounds and 33 neutral compounds were screened to compare the enantioresolution capability on the GMA/β-CD, GMA/β-CD-VBTA and GMA/β-CD-AMPS monolithic columns.
Oxide charge buildup and spread-out during channel-hot-carrier injection in NMOSFETs

Oxide charge buildup during channel-hot-carrier (CHC) injection was investigated by the use of a modified charge-pumping technique. An apparent 'turnaround' effect in local oxide charge density during low gate voltage (V/sub T/ >
Pharmacology of Adjunct Agents

Understand the clinical properties and uses of direct and indirect-acting sympathomimetic drugs Learn the mechanism of action of antiemetic drugs Review the properties of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Kernel-Based Collocation Methods Versus Galerkin Finite Element Methods for Approximating Elliptic Stochastic Partial Differential Equations

We compare a kernel-based collocation method (meshfree approximation method) with a Galerkin finite element method for solving elliptic stochastic partial differential equations driven by Gaussian noises. The kernel-based collocation solution is a linear combination of reproducing kernels obtained from related differential and boundary operators centered at chosen collocation points. Its random coefficients are obtained by solving a system of linear equations with multiple random right-hand sides. The finite element solution is given as a tensor product of triangular finite elements and Lagrange polynomials defined on a finite-dimensional probability space. Its coefficients are obtained by solving several deterministic finite element problems. For the kernel-based collocation method, we directly simulate the (infinite-dimensional) Gaussian noise at the collocation points. For the finite element method, however, we need to truncate the Gaussian noise into finite-dimensional noises. According to our numerical experiments, the finite element method has the same convergence rate as the kernel-based collocation method provided the Gaussian noise is truncated using a suitable number terms.
Treatment of Susac Syndrome

Susac syndrome is a microangiopathy of the brain, retina, and cochlea. Several lines of evidence support the concept that this disease is an acquired autoimmune disorder. Prospective, randomized, controlled studies of treatments are not available because the disease is rare. Furthermore, the average period of follow-up in reported cases is short, limiting a complete understanding of the natural history of the disease. Empirical treatment strategies are therefore based upon expert recommendations and anecdotal reports of response to various immunomodulators, and the appropriate duration of therapy is not known. In our opinion, the encephalopathic form of Susac syndrome should be treated early and aggressively to avoid cognitive dysfunction and disability. Induction therapy with pulse methylprednisolone frequently proves to be inadequate. Additional agents, including intravenous immunoglobulins, intravenous cyclophosphamide, or rituximab are often necessary to induce a sustained remission. Maintenance therapy with oral glucocorticoids combined with intravenous immunoglobulins, mycophenolate mofetil, methotrexate, azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, or rituximab is typically necessary to achieve a sustained remission. Aspirin may be used as an adjunctive agent, although evidence showing efficacy is scant. The response to treatment should be closely monitored by frequent clinical examinations, brain MRI, and fluorescein angiography. Once disease remission has been established, it appears prudent to continue maintenance treatment for at least two additional years, although the real long-term risk of future relapses remains unknown. Establishing a multicenter patient registry and biorepository is essential to study the pathogenesis of the disease, further define the duration of disease, identify reliable biomarkers that aid early diagnosis and assess risk of relapse, and develop effective disease-specific therapies.
Examination of possible primary mechanisms for 193nm resist shrinkage

As the need to create smaller features increases, the industry is moving on to 193nm photoresist systems. It is well known that one problem with this resist is its shrinkage under secondary electron microscope (SEM) measurements. While different phenomena arising from electron-material interaction are assumed to take place (such as crosslinking and scission), the primary mechanism which brings about this shrinkage is still unclear. This paper comprises four main experiments, relating to four theories for the primary mechanism which brings about the shrinkage. In the first experiment we wanted to examine how the shrinkage is affected by subjecting the resist to 193nm exposure (after patterning). This experiment examines the theory that the electron exposure induces an effect similar to that of 193nm exposure. The second experiment deals with e-beam curing in different doses, using working parameters similar to those used in SEM measurements (e-beam curing entails a much smaller power density than SEM measurements). The third experiment addresses the theory of disassociation of carbonyl bonds in the resist, leading to crosslinking and eventual evaporation of CO2 molecules. The last experiment tests the theory that the shrinkage is caused by the collapse of voids within the photoresist, generated during the resist coating or subsequent bakes. From the results we conclude that an effect similar to radiation exposure, local heating and the collapse of voids are not likely candidates for the primary mechanism. We did, however, find a correlation between the carbonyl levels in the resist and the shrinkage.
Wilkie Collins and the Woman in White

Inscribed on a tombstone in Kensal Green Cemetery are the following words: “In memory of Wilkie Collins, author of ‘The Woman in White’ and other works of fiction.” This inscription, written (as his will shows) by Collins himself, pays tribute to the book which probably stands highest among his works in the esteem of his readers.
Observation of the Usage of Filgrastim for Pediatric Leukemia in Different Treatment Stages

OBJECTIVE:To observe the usage of filgrastim for pediatric leukemia in different treatment stages. METHODS:Taking 25 cases with pediatric leukemia as the observing objects, who had been treated in our hospital in recent years, and observing the days spent when using filgrastim in the treatment stages of induction, consolidation, maintenance and intensification. RESULTS:The days spent when using filgrastim for the patients in induction treatment stage were much longer than that in consolidation and intensification treatment stages( P 0 01).There was less infection and no obvious adverse reaction. CONCLUSION:Keeping the usage of filgrastim for leukemia in induction treatment stage can effectively avoid infection and get through dangerous period of the treatment. When the disease gets relieved, filgrastim will not be used or will be less used in consolidation and intensification treatment stages.
Copra Came Before Copper: The Nasioi of Bougainville and Plantation Colonialism, 1902-1964

For more than sixty years before a giant copper mine was developed on their land, the Nasioi of Bougainville lived in a colonial situation dominated by a copra plantation economy. This form of colonialism was imposed upon an indigenous sociocultural system characterized by political atomism and a strong belief in dependence on supernatural forces. As the colonial situation developed under specific historical conditions over decades, the Nasioi attempted unsuccessfully to find a more satisfactory adjustment to changed circumstances. The article argues that knowledge of this cultural and historical background provides greater insight into the dramatic developments in Bougainville during the last twenty years.
Clinic observation of the effect of oral brufen suspension and analgin naristillae on children with fever

Objective: To observe the effect of oral brufen suspension and analgin naristillae on children with fever. Methods: 151 case with fever( 38 ℃ ) due to upper respiratory tract infection, were random divided into brufen treating group and analgin control group. Result: There was not any different between two groups at the time when the body temperature started going down. But there were significantly different effects after 48 h or 72 h in reducing the temperature. Conclusion: Brufen suspension can be taken as basic drug in treating children with fever, for it has better and longer effect in reducing fever.
The full length cDNA cloning of RsSRK-a gene and its expression analysis in radish (Raphanus sativus L.)

The radish self-incompatibility line Nau-DY06 was identified with the compatibility index and the fluorescence microscopy method.An ORF encoding 853 amino acids was amplified by RT-PCR from cDNA of the stigma of Nau-DY06 with the primer derived from the conserved sequences of the SRK genes in different crops.The gene was designated as RsSRK-a (GenBank accession number:GQ121139).Its identity with the SRK3 in Brassica rapa,the SRK13-b in B.oleracea var.acephala,was 89% respectively.The molecular weight of the predicated protein encoded was 96.6 × 103 and its theoretical pI was 6.69.Semi-quantitative RT-PCR analysis showed that expression of the RsSRK-a was detectable in the stigma of two days before anthesis and especially high at anthesis stage.Expression profiling of the RsSRK-a in radish stigma indicated that it might play an important role in the selfincompatibility.The results provide important information for the exploration of the mechanism and utilization of self-incompatibility in radish.
Women and the Social Security Earnings Test

In 2000, in an effort to encourage older individuals to continue to work, Congress removed the Social Security earnings test, which beneficiaries view as a tax on benefits, for beneficiaries who attained the Normal Retirement Age. Previous analysis on the effects of the Social Security earnings test has not addressed the effect on women, who are a significant proportion of all benefit types – comprising 57 percent of all beneficiaries over 62, 49 percent of primary beneficiaries, and 99 percent of spousal beneficiaries. After the removal of the earnings test, female primary beneficiaries increase average earnings and labor force participation. Female spousal beneficiaries, however, do not increase their average earnings or labor force participation. In addition, the removal of the earnings test also encourages all women to claim benefits at an earlier age. As suggested by Gruber and Orszag (2003), the incentive to claim benefits at a younger age may have an effect on the welfare of Social Security beneficiaries, possibly increasing the poverty among older individuals.
The Secret of Life: The Genetic Code

DNA is bursting with information, and we’re just now at a point in human history where we can take advantage of it. The genetic code, now that we understand it, is quite straightforward, at least in its basics: the 20 amino acids in proteins, as well as special instructions for starting and stopping, are encoded in a linear string of four types of DNA nucleotides. Once you know the sequence of the DNA, you know the sequence of the protein. Well, almost, there are still many oddities and exceptions that add much color and diversity to life. But at the core, there is the genetic code of codons and antico dons.
RADIATION EXPOSURE FOR COMMON DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES: VARIATION DUE TO EQUIPMENT AND TECHNIQUE FACTORS

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the experiments conducted to study radiation exposure for common diagnostic procedures. Several factors influence the exposure a patient is subjected to in diagnostic radiology. Following the guidelines of Nationwide Evaluation of X-ray Trends, reasonable exposure limits were applied to common diagnostic exams. In the measurement procedure, the dosimeter (Keithley Model 602 PTW 30cc Diagnostic chamber) is placed at the entrance of the primary beam for a standard person. All technique factors given by the radiologist were strictly adhered to for each test. An appropriate aluminum phantom was utilized for photo-timed equipment. For all examinations, the average entrance skin exposure criteria (ESEC) appeared below the above limits. Phototimed exposures were shown to be 37% less than nonphototimed exams. For the same vintage and brand of phototimed equipment, there was a large standard deviation of 213mR from the average value of 352mR for an abdomen film. The wide variation in photo timed equipment of the same brand and generation is likely because of the differences in screens and films. Monitoring of patient exposure in medical diagnostic exams is necessary to determine equipment problems and technique deficiencies that may exist. In rural areas, this surveying may be forthcoming form a shared service group whereas in metropolitian areas, ESEC should be measured by in-house health physicists.
Pacific Northwest Population of Lophocampa maculata Harris 1841: Evidence of a Possible Hybrid Origin

ABSTRACT. The different geographic populations of Lophocampa maculata Harris 1841 are characterized by a variety of phenotypic differences, of which larval color is the most obvious. Individuals of the Pacific Northwest (PNW) populations display significant variation in late instar coloration, arising from variation in setae pigmentation. Such variation is not found in other populations of Lophocampa maculata, including the western Interior population (WI) and California Coastal population (CAC). Analysis of the pattern of pigmentation of the PNW population suggests it represents a combination of features of the CAC and WI populations. A simple scheme that accounts for all of the color variations seen in the different geographic populations of L. maculata is presented. A laboratory mating experiment involving WI and CAC individuals resulted in viable offspring displaying the range of larval coloration seen in the wild PNW populations. The F1 hybrids were fertile and produced an F2 generation also exhibiti...
A Retrospective Study of Salmonella Enteritidis Isolated from Commercial Layer Flocks.

SUMMARY Consumption of shell eggs has been associated with Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) infections in humans in the United States. Because of this, the Pennsylvania Egg Quality Assurance Program (PEQAP) was developed and implemented in 1994. The PEQAP involves periodic flock testing and management practices to minimize SE contamination of shell eggs. Subsequently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) introduced a mandatory federal program in 2010 and 2012 for shell egg producers modeled closely after PEQAP to reduce the incidence and prevalence of SE during production, storage, and transport nationwide. In this study, a retrospective epidemiologic analysis was conducted by characterizing SE isolated from commercial layer environment samples and shell eggs submitted to the Animal Diagnostic Laboratory at The Pennsylvania State University using phage typing and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). The objective of this study was to determine the relatedness of SE isolates from hen house environmen...
Examining Potential Confounds in Use of the Detection Response Task for In-Vehicle System Evaluation

The detection response task (DRT) and its variations provide a new tool for measuring cognitive workload in complex task environments such as driving. A number of previous investigations have clearly established the utility of the DRT for assessing cognitive demand in tasks that do not contain a visual–manual interaction component. However, the potential utility of the DRT for assessing the cognitive demand of primarily visual–manual tasks has not yet been established. Additionally, the various task demands required by the DRT have raised concerns over potential task interference. The aim of this study was to evaluate these important research needs by assessing the performance of common in-vehicle tasks using voice recognition, steering wheel controls, and the center stack touch screen. Tasks were completed both with and without the DRT. Results indicated the presence of the DRT increased task completion time but the effect was surprisingly modest. These findings should be of interest to researchers and p...
A 6-bp Deletion Variant in a Novel Canine Glutathione-S-Transferase Gene (GSTT5) Leads to Loss of Enzyme Function.

Objectives Glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs) detoxify reactive xenobiotics, and defective GST gene polymorphisms increase cancer risk in humans. A low activity GST-theta variant was previously found in research beagles. The purpose of our study was to determine the molecular basis for this phenotype and its allele frequency in pet dogs. Methods Banked livers from 45 dogs of various breeds were screened for low GST-theta activity by the substrate 1,2-dichloro-4-nitrobenzene (DCNB), and were genotyped for variants in a novel canine GST gene, GSTT5. Whole-genome sequences from 266 dogs were genotyped at one discovered variant GSTT5 locus. Results Canine livers ranged 190-fold in GST-theta activities, and a GSTT5 exon coding variant 385_390delGACCAG (Asp129_Gln130del) was significantly associated with low activity (P < 0.0001) and a marked decrease in hepatic protein expression (P = 0.0026). Recombinant expression of variant GSTT5 led to a 92% decrease in Vmax for DCNB (P = 0.0095). The minor allele frequency (MAF) for 385_390delGACCAG was 0.144 in 45 dog livers, but was significantly higher in beagles (0.444) versus nonbeagles (0.007; P = 0.0004). The homozygous genotype was significantly over-represented in Pembroke Welsh corgis (P < 0.0001) based on available whole-genome sequence data. Conclusions An Asp129_Gln130del variant in canine GSTT5 is responsible for marked loss of GST-theta enzyme activity. This variant is significantly over-represented in purpose-bred laboratory beagles and in Pembroke Welsh corgis. Additional work will determine the prevalence of this variant among other purebred dogs, and will establish the substrate range of this polymorphic canine enzyme with respect to common environmental carcinogens.
Ultra-high spectral resolution spectrometer for single photon source characterization

In future quantum communication systems, single photons will be required to possess very narrow linewidths and accurate wavelengths for efficient interaction with quantum memories. Spectral characterization of such single photon sources is necessary and must be performed with very high spectral resolution, wavelength accuracy and detection sensitivity. We propose a method to precisely characterize the spectral properties of narrow-linewidth single-photon sources using an atomic vapor cell based on electromagnetically-induced transparency. We have experimentally demonstrated a spectral resolution of better than 150 kHz, an absolute wavelength accuracy of within 50 kHz and an exceptional detection sensitivity suitable for optical signals as weak as -117 dBm.
Improving Antiepileptic Medication Administration Time to Status Epilepticus Patients (P6.286)

Objective: To improve administration time of antiepileptic medications to status epilepticus patients. Background: Status epilepticus is a neurological emergency that results in significant morbidity and mortality. Early and prompt intervention is key in stopping status epilepticus and improving patient outcomes. Design/Methods: Quality improvement project, cases identified by retrospective case review. Results: Fourteen patients were identified with delay in antiepileptic medication administration, from September 2016 to October 2017. Administration time ranged from 55 minutes to 333 minutes, average was time was 166 minutes. Location was evenly distributed between Neurology Floor, Medicine Floor, Neurology ICU, Medicine ICU and Cardiac ICU. The cause of delay was identified as pharmacy being unaware of urgent nature of antiepileptic medication and communication from pharmacy to nursing when medication was available. Conclusions: We identified a systems based problem for administration of antiepileptic medications to status epilepticus patients and implemented a “Status Epilepticus Alert.” This was structured similar to a “Stroke Alert” and activated by the neurology resident, alerting pharmacy staff to prepare ordered antiepileptic medication and deliver the medication directly to patient bedside for administration. We will demonstrate an improvement in antiepileptic administration time, with goal administration time less than 20 minutes. Study Supported by: None. Disclosure: Dr. Haynes has nothing to disclose. Dr. Cuesta Isabel has nothing to disclose. Dr. Khazaal has nothing to disclose. Dr. Rahimian has nothing to disclose. Dr. Zubkov has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hellerslia has nothing to disclose.