cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 mutations in melanoma frequently co-occur with NRAS mutations

Aims Isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) is a metabolic enzyme that converts isocitrate to α-ketoglutarate. IDH1 mutations are associated with the accumulation of the oncometabolite D-2-hydroxyglutarate, which acts as an epigenetic modifier, and the development of multiple malignancies. Methods and results From May 2013 to June 2017, 252 melanoma samples from 214 patients with advanced or distant metastatic disease were tested for somatic mutations with the 50-gene AmpliSeq version 2 Cancer Hotspot Panel. Two hundred and twenty-six samples were sequenced successfully from 206 patients with 26 samples being characterised as quantity not sufficient. Melanomas from 10 separate patients (4.9%) were positive for IDH1 R132C (nine) or R132S (one). In six cases, the tumours also had a co-existing NRAS mutation (p.Q61R, Q61L and Q61K in two patients each) (P = 0.0044), whereas three patients had BRAF non-V600E mutations (V600K, V600G and V600R). Two cases had a TP53 variant, two cases an ATM variant, one a CDKN2A variant and one had an APC variant. The patients' ages ranged from 45 to 82 years (mean = 65.3, median = 65 years) and three of 10 patients were female (M:F ratio = 2:3). Three patients were stage 3 and seven were stage 4. Two are deceased, five are alive with stable disease (four on pembrolizumab) and three have no evidence of disease. Conclusion IDH mutations may define a unique subset of melanoma patients who are eligible for IDH1 targeted therapies or combined therapies, such as MEK inhibitors when there is co-existing NRAS mutations, or immunotherapy.
Forest of Indiana, 2017

This resource update provides an overview of forest resources in Indiana based on an inventory conducted by the USDA Forest Service, Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program at the Northern Research Station in cooperation with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Estimates are based on field data collected using the FIA annualized strategic sample design and are updated yearly. In 2014, NRS-FIA changed to a 7-year inventory cycle, wherein 1/7th (14.3 percent) of the plots will be measured annually. For the 2017 inventory, estimates for current variables such as area, volume, and biomass are based on 4,683 plot samples (1,248 forested) collected from 2011–2017. Change variables such as net growth, removals, and mortality are based on 4,533 plots (1,182 forested) collected in 2006–2011 and remeasured in 2011–2016. Estimates from earlier inventories are shown for comparison. Data used in this publication were accessed from the FIA database in May 2018. See Bechtold and Patterson (2005), Burrill et al. (2017), and Gormanson et al. (2018) for definitions and technical details. A complete set of inventory tables is available at https://doi.org/10.2737/FS-RU-165.
Embodying the Problem: The Persuasive Power of the Teen Mother, by Jenna Vinson

I come to Jenna Vinson’s book, Embodying the Problem: The Persuasive Power of the Teen Mother, as anything but a teen mother. I am thirty-seven, in a tenure-track job, and pregnant with my first ch...
Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound Evaluation of Skeletal Muscle Perfusion in Response to Left Ventricular Assist Device Therapy

Purpose This pilot study investigated the novel application of contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) to quantify skeletal muscle perfusion in patients pre- and post-left ventricular assist device (LVAD) based on the hypothesis that abnormalities in muscle perfusion help account for persistent frailty and poor quality of life (QOL) experienced by some LVAD recipients. Methods Patients had CEUS exams of the quadriceps muscle prior to and 3 months following HeartMate II LVAD implantation using an S3000 Helx scanner (Siemens) with a C6 probe during bolus injections of 0.3 mL of Definity (Lantheus) in resting and fatigue state. Muscle fatigue was achieved by resisted (∼50% of maximum) knee extension until exhaustion. Muscle perfusion was estimated by time intensity curves; contrast arrival time and time to peak contrast intensity were also assessed. Patients reporting >5 points increase in in Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire 3 months post-LVAD were classified as responders. Results Seven patients completed baseline and 3-month assessments; four were classified as responders. Average LVAD speed was similar in responders (9150±191 RPMs) vs non-responders (9200±200 RPMs, p=0.75). Compared to pre-operative measures, responders exhibited increased resting muscle perfusion at 3 months (0.04±0.07 ml/s*mg) compared to non-responders (-0.01±0.02 ml/s*mg, p=0.013). Similarly, responding patients exhibited decreased time to peak CEUS enhancement (-33.95±58.6 s) at rest post-LVAD compared to baseline whereas non-responders exhibited an increase (+12.85±22.4 s, p=0.036). Responding patients showed decreased contrast arrival time following exercise at 3 months (24.0±1.8 s fatigue vs. 37.5±6.5 s rest, p=0.029) while non-responders showed no significant difference (p=0.20). There were no significant differences between responders and non-responders in improvement in knee extensor strength (p=0.70), gait speed (p=0.94) or grip strength (p=0.47) at 3 months compared to baseline. All patients tolerated the assessments without adverse events. Conclusion These findings demonstrate the feasibility of CEUS to assess muscle perfusion in LVAD recipients and support the study hypothesis. Further study of the contribution of impaired skeletal muscle perfusion to persistent frailty and poor QOL following LVAD implantation is needed.
Contextual problems as conceptual anchors: an illustrative case

One argument for the use of contexts in mathematics instruction has been that contexts can serve as anchors that support students in understanding and recalling mathematical ideas. Evidence of this...
Innovative Assisted Living Tools, Remote Monitoring Technologies, Artificial Intelligence-Driven Solutions, and Robotic Systems for Aging Societies: Systematic Review.

Background: The increase in life expectancy and recent advancements in technology and medical science have changed the way we deliver health services to the aging societies. Evidence suggests that home telemonitoring can significantly decrease the number of readmissions, and continuous monitoring of older adults’ daily activities and health-related issues might prevent medical emergencies. Objective: The primary objective of this review was to identify advances in assistive technology devices for seniors and aging-in-place technology and to determine the level of evidence for research on remote patient monitoring, smart homes, telecare, and artificially intelligent monitoring systems. Methods: A literature review was conducted using Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature Plus, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Xplore, ProQuest Central, Scopus, and Science Direct. Publications related to older people’s care, independent living, and novel assistive technologies were included in the study. Results: A total of 91 publications met the inclusion criteria. In total, four themes emerged from the data: technology acceptance and readiness, novel patient monitoring and smart home technologies, intelligent algorithm and software engineering, and robotics technologies. The results revealed that most studies had poor reference standards without an explicit critical appraisal. Conclusions: The use of ubiquitous in-home monitoring and smart technologies for aged people’s care will increase their independence and the health care services available to them as well as improve frail elderly people’s health care outcomes. This review identified four different themes that require different conceptual approaches to solution development. Although the engineering teams were focused on prototype and algorithm development, the medical science teams were concentrated on outcome research. We also identified the need to develop custom technology solutions for different aging societies. The convergence of medicine and informatics could lead to the development of new interdisciplinary research models and new assistive products for the care of older adults.
New Zampanolide Mimics: Design, Synthesis, and Antiproliferative Evaluation.

Zampanolide is a promising microtubule-stabilizing agent (MSA) with a unique chemical structure. It is superior to the current clinically used MSAs due to the covalent nature of its binding to β-tubulin and high cytotoxic potency toward multidrug-resistant cancer cells. However, its further development as a viable drug candidate is hindered by its limited availability. More importantly, conversion of its chemically fragile side chain into a stabilized bioisostere is envisioned to enable zampanolide to possess more drug-like properties. As part of our ongoing project aiming to develop its mimics with a stable side chain using straightforward synthetic approaches, 2-fluorobenzyl alcohol was designed as a bioisosteric surrogate for the side chain based on its binding conformation as confirmed by the X-ray structure of tubulin complexed with zampanolide. Two new zampanolide mimics with the newly designed side chain have been successfully synthesized through a 25-step chemical transformation for each. Yamaguchi esterification and intramolecular Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons condensation were used as key reactions to construct the lactone core. The chiral centers at C17 and C18 were introduced by the Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation. Our WST-1 cell proliferation assay data in both docetaxel-resistant and docetaxel-naive prostate cancer cell lines revealed that compound 6 is the optimal mimic and the newly designed side chain can serve as a bioisostere for the chemically fragile N-acetyl hemiaminal side chain in zampanolide.
Thermoacoustic combined tomography of abusive head trauma

In cases of child abuse, the leading cause of death is head trauma. Due to the developing skull and brain, the vast majority of victims are less than one year old. An estimated 4 cases of abusive head trauma (AHT) occurs for every 10,000 babies born each year, with a 25% mortality rate. In standard cases, infants undergo X-ray (CT) or magnetic resonance (MRI) imaging when AHT is suspected. Repeated imaging of these patients is desired, since the symptoms associated with abusive head trauma change over time. By measuring the rate of change the precise time and likely cause of the trauma can be more easily identified. CT and MRI are not attractive options for the desired repeated imaging, due to the radiation, high cost, and unavailability at the bedside. Diagnosis of head trauma using imaging is based on several factors, including the presence of skull fractures, subdural hematoma, and hydrocephalus. Thermoacoustic combined tomography (TACT), which synergistically integrates ultrasound tomography (UT), photoacoustic tomography (PAT), and radio frequency acoustic tomography (RAT) is uniquely suited for imaging these symptoms at point-of-care. To verify this hypothesis, in silico experiments were performed on clinical MRI data of infants using our custom developed TACT simulation platform. Speed of sound measurements made using ultrasound are able to identify fractures in the skull, while photoacoustics is sensitive to the molecular contrast of blood, and is able to image subdural hematomas. Radio frequency acoustic tomography is most sensitive to cerebrospinal fluid, necessary for imaging hydrocephalus. Since this technology may be utilized for repeated imaging at the bedside, these multimodal TACT images can provide crucial information for the timing, and therefore cause of infant head trauma, as well as monitor the effect of treatment.
Use of a convolutional neural network (CNN) to determine if the patient’s eye lens is in the beam for x-ray image projections

The eye lens is a very radiosensitive organ and is at risk for cataractogenesis during neuro-interventional procedures. It is paramount that the lens is exposed to the x-ray beam as little as possible while still being able to complete the clinical task. In this preliminary investigation, a convolutional neural network (CNN) has been created in order identify if the lens is within the x-ray projection image and where it is located with the intent to facilitate lens dose estimation. The model was trained using a database of patient cases of radiographic skull images, which had different views, in order to generalize the data. The size of the dataset was increased by rotating the images at various angles and masks were created for each corresponding image by hand-contouring the eye socket in the image. For image segmentation, a U-Net model was used which consisted of a down-block, bottleneck, and up-block. Different network parameters were tested and receiver operating curves (ROCs), with Jaccard indices, were assessed to identify the best model. The end goal of this project is model implementation into the real-time Canon Dose Tracking System (DTS) during interventional fluoroscopic procedures. This will allow the DTS to have a more accurate identification of where the lens is, whether fully in the beam or only partially. With this information, a more accurate calculation of the eye lens dose can be done which allows for patients’ dose to be more carefully monitored.
Effect of routine seasonal malaria chemoprevention on malaria trends in children under 5 years in Dangassa, Mali

Seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) is a new strategy to prevent malaria in children under 5 years old. It has been recommended by the World Health Organization since 2012 in malaria-endemic areas with seasonal transmission. This study aimed to assess the changes in malaria indicators through two consecutive years of SMC routine implementation in children under 5 years old in Dangassa, where malaria is endemic with a long and high transmission season. From 2012 to 2016, a cohort study was conducted in Dangassa village. The study team based in the village followed all malaria clinical cases in children under 5 years old at the community health centre. During the study, SMC was routinely implemented in collaboration with the National Malaria Control Programme. The Cox regression model was used in order to compare malaria risk during the study. The Cox regression model showed a significant reduction in malaria clinical incidence, both in 2015 (HR = 0.27 (0.18–0.40), 95% CI) and in 2016 (HR = 0.23 (0.15–0.35), 95% CI) of SMC implementation compared to October 2013. Gametocyte and fever prevalence was lower between September and October during SMC implementation (2015 and 2016) compared to the same period before SMC implementation (2013–2014). A slight increase of malaria incidence was observed in December at the end of SMC implementation. SMC has significantly reduced both malaria incidence and gametocyte prevalence and improved haemoglobin levels in children under 5 years old after 2 years of routine implementation.
What Do Partisan Donors Want

Author(s): Broockman, D; Malhotra, N | Abstract: Influential theories indicate concern that campaign donors exert outsized political influence. However, little data have documented what donors actually want from government, and existing research has devoted less attention to donors' views on individual issues. Findings from an original survey of US donors, including an oversample of the largest donors, and a concurrently fielded mass survey document significant heterogeneity by party and policy domain in how donors' and citizens' views diverge. We find that Republican donors are much more conservative than Republican citizens on economic issues, whereas their views are similar on social issues. By contrast, Democratic donors are much more liberal than Democratic citizens on social issues, whereas their views are more similar on economic issues. Both parties' donors, but especially Democratic donors, are more pro-globalism than their citizen counterparts. We replicate these patterns in an independent dataset. Our findings have important implications for the study of American politics.
Episodic and Autobiographical Memory

Episodic memory is about recollection of events in one's past. Autobiographical memory is one's personal history that may include episodic memories in addition to other facts about oneself (such as one's place and date of birth). The concepts are related but not identical and have been studied in different research traditions. In discussing both episodic and autobiographical memory, we consider sets of factors that occur (a) prior to the to-be-remembered events, (b) during encoding of the event, (c) during the retention interval between encoding and retrieval, and (d) during retrieval of the event in response to some query or test. Despite the fact that the types of research on these concepts arise from different methods, there is convergence in many outcomes and principles that emerge from both types of research. However, results from the two research traditions do not always converge and the methods have different strengths. Episodic memory tasks allow for manipulation of prior events, whereas autobiographical memory methods allow for investigations in more natural contexts. Episodic and autobiographical memory are best viewed as overlapping concepts with both similarities and differences in their operation. Each domain of inquiry provides an important contribution to the larger understanding of human memory. Keywords: autobiographical memory; encoding; episodic memory; forgetting; memory; retention; retrieval
How soon can we identify at-risk patients: examining initial depressive symptomology and opioid use in musculoskeletal trauma survivors?

Abstract Objectives This study evaluates the associations between post injury depressive symptomology and opioid use from the initial time of injury in orthopedic trauma patients without pre-existing psychiatric conditions. Design and setting This is a prospective study following the development of symptoms after orthopedic trauma injury conducted at a Level-1 trauma center. Patients Orthopedic trauma patients (N=96; 43.4±16.5 yrs, 40.6% women) Main outcome measures and analysis methods Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) was administered during index hospitalization and at 2-weeks, 6-weeks, and 3- months, and 6-months. In-hospital and out-patient opioid use were tracked. Regression analyses determined the relationship of opioid use and depressive symptoms during follow-up. Results Twenty percent of patients had moderate depressive symptom levels (BDI 20-28 points) and 11% had severe depressive symptom levels (BDI ≥29) at the time of their index hospitalization. Inpatient BDI-II depressive symptom severity levels were significantly related to depressive symptomology at 2 -weeks, 6 -weeks, and 3 -months. In-hospital or discharge opioid dose was not associated with initial or persistent depressive symptomology. Patients with persistent opioid use at 6 weeks had higher depressive symptoms six months following post-discharge than those who ceased opioid use by 6 -weeks post-discharge. Conclusions This study suggests that depressive symptomology immediately following musculoskeletal trauma is predictive for persistent depressive symptomology in a subset of our patient population. Inpatient BDI-II depressive symptom severity levels in the hospital were significantly related to BDI-II at 2-weeks, 6-weeks, and 3-months, and persistent opioid use, past 6-weeks, was independently associated with prolonged depressive symptomology as well. Further study into effective treatment and monitoring of mental health disturbances following trauma is needed, particularly in patients with continued need for and use of opioids after discharge.
Formation, Stability, and Annihilation of the Stitched Morphology in Block Copolymer Thin Films

The directed self-assembly of block copolymer thin films offers promise for next-generation lithography, providing access to small feature dimensions for electronic devices. Defective assembly, whe...
Codes/Out of or Emergency Airway Management

Anesthesiologists are frequently called to intubate patients in an urgent or emergent setting outside of the operating room, especially at code blues when a patient has gone into cardiac or respiratory arrest. This chapter outlines how to assess a patient’s status in an efficient manner, including assessing vital signs and ABCs (airway, breathing, and circulation status). Outside of the operating room, the anesthesiologist must rely on supplies provided in an emergency crash cart or in a department-provided code bag. Using the MOMSAID mnemonic (Machine, Oxygen, Monitor, Suction, Airway, IV, Drugs), this chapter highlights how to pick and choose supplies and ensure appropriate setup for a safe intubation.
Workshop on internet economics (WIE2015) report

On December 16--17 2015, we hosted the 5th interdisciplinary Workshop on Internet Economics (WIE) at the UC San Diego's Supercomputer Center. This workshop series provides a forum for researchers, Internet facilities and service providers, technologists, economists, theorists, policy makers, and other stakeholders to inform current and emerging regulatory and policy debates.The FCC's latest open Internet order ostensibly changes the landscape of regulation by using Title II as its basis. This year we discussed the implications of Title II (common-carrier-based) regulation for issues we have looked at in the past, or those shaping current policy conversations. Discussion topics included differentiated services on the public Internet, evolving approaches to interconnection across different segments of the ecosystem (e.g., content to access), QoE and QoS measurement techniques and their limitations, interconnection measurement and modeling challenges and opportunities, and transparency. The format was a series of focused sessions, where presenters prepared 10-minute talks on relevant issues, followed by in-depth discussions. This report highlights the discussions and presents relevant open research questions identified by participants.1
Effects of dry needling on muscle spasticity in adults with neurological disorders: a systematic review

Spasticity is a motor disorder often associated with decreased ROM, ADL performance, and QOL. DN has shown potential to improve spasticity by stimulating spastic muscle tissue with a stainless stee...
Learned Associations Over Long Delays1

Publisher Summary The literature of specific hungers and bait shyness contains much indirect evidence of learning involving prolonged delay of reinforcement. Specific hunger refers to the selective feeding by animals as they learn to correct a specific dietary deficiency, such as thiamine deficiency, while bait shyness describes the rejection of poisoned baits by animals, which have survived a previous poisoning attempt. It seems unlikely that learning can take place at all with delays of more than a few seconds. Instances of learning with protracted delays of reinforcement are always cases where immediate secondary reinforcement occurs. It is generalized that delayed reinforcement is not effective except under elaborate training conditions. However, when the response is ingestion and the rewards or punishments are changes in the physiological state of the organism, this generalization appears to be incorrect. Most specific hungers can be explained in terms of learned associations involving delayed aftereffects; an exception is the specific hunger for sodium, which appears to be largely innate. If rats are subjected to sodium deficiency and recover from it by drinking salt water, they tend to drink an abnormally large amount of salt water after the deficiency is relieved.
CONSENSUS : a statistical learning procedure in a connectionist network

Abstract : This document presents a new scheme for the activity of neuron-like elements in a connectionist network. The CONSENSUS (Context Sensitive Networks Using Statistics), is that decisions should be deferred until sufficient evidence accumulates to make an informed choice. Consequently, large changes in network structure can be made with confidence. Nodes have an awareness of their role and utility in the network which allows them to increase their effectiveness. The reinforcement scheme utilizes the notion of confidence so that only nodes proven to contribute successfully issue reinforcements. Nodes are grouped into communities to exploit their collective knowledge which exceeds any individual member. The network was tested against several problems and was able to find suitable encodings to solve them.
Compliant Control of Robot Manipulators Incorporating Force Sensor and Constraint Models

The paper proposes a new robot control system which simultaneously tracks position and force commands along a constrained surface. The model of the constraints is incorporated into the control algorithm. This leads to a more robust controller than those developed previously. The paper presents a general model for constrained surfaces and the architecture for the feedback controller. If the constraints are modeled exactly, the controller is capable of tracking with zero steady state error.
Technology trust in B2B electronic commerce: conceptual foundations

A comprehensive conceptulization of trust in B2B electronic commerce should include trust in the infrastructure and the underlying control and support mechanisms. We refer to this new target of trust as "technology trust, " which is described as the subjective belief by which an organization assesses that the underlying technology infrastructure and support mechanisms are capable of supporting inter-organizational communications, transactions, and collaborations. We describe technology trust as a higher-order construct comprising of transaction (a) confidentiality, (b) integrity, (c) authentication, (d) non-repudiation, (e) access control (f) availability, and (g) best business practices. We conceptualize technology trust drawing upon the notion of institutional trust, and particularly the dimension of situational normality. We describe how bi-lateral (dyadic) and third-party institutionalized technology-related practices can institute situational normality in B2B electronic commerce. This chapter contributes to the understanding of the conceptual foundations of technology trust by bridging the gap between technological solutions from an institutional trust perspective (technology trust), interorganizational trust, and value creation in B2B electronic commerce. We conclude by discussing the study's theoretical and managerial implications toward instituting and making use of technology trust.
On Cartesian Monoids

A Cartesian monoid is a structure (M, *, I, L, R, 〈 〉) where (M, *, I) is a monoid with L and R members of M and 〈〉: M2 → M s.t. L * 〈x, y〉=x R * 〈x, y〉=x 〈x, y〉 * z=〈x * z, y * z〉 〈L, R〉=I.
Purification of the secretor-type beta-galactoside alpha 1----2-fucosyltransferase from human serum.

The secretor-type beta-galactoside alpha 1----2-fucosyltransferase from human serum was purified by hydrophobic chromatography on phenyl-Sepharose, ion-exchange chromatography on sulfopropyl-Sepharose, and affinity chromatography on GDP-hexanolamine-Sepharose. Final purification of the enzyme was achieved by high pressure liquid chromatography gel filtration and resulted in a homogeneous protein as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the radiolabeled protein. The native enzyme appears as a molecule of apparent Mr 150,000 as determined by gel filtration high pressure liquid chromatography. The apparent Mr of the enzyme resolved in the presence of beta-mercaptoethanol by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was determined to be 50,000, indicating a multisubunit structure of the enzyme. Secretor-type alpha 1----2-fucosyltransferase is a glycoprotein as determined by WGA binding properties. A comparison of the Mr of the native blood group H gene encoded with the secretor-type beta-galactoside alpha 1----2-fucosyltransferases as well as comparison of subunit Mr for both enzymes suggests structural similarity. The alpha 1----2 linkage formed between alpha-L-fucose and terminal beta-D-galactose by the purified H- and secretor-type alpha 1----2-fucosyltransferases was determined by 1H NMR homonuclear cross-irradiation analysis of the oligosaccharide products. The substrate specificity and Km values calculated from the initial rate using various oligosaccharide acceptors showed that purified enzymes differ primarily in affinity for phenyl-beta-D-galactopyranoside and GDP-fucose as well as type 1 (Gal beta 1----3GlcNAc), 2 (Gal beta 1----4GlcNAc), and 3 (Gal beta 1----3GalNAc) oligosaccharide acceptors. The secretor-type alpha 1----2-fucosyltransferase shows significantly lower affinity than the H enzyme for phenyl-beta-D-galactopyranoside and GDP-fucose as well as for type 2 oligosaccharide acceptors. On the contrary, type 1 and 3 oligosaccharide acceptors are preferentially utilized by the secretor-type enzyme as compared with the H enzyme. The enzymes also differ in several physicochemical properties, implying nonidentity of the two enzymes (Sarnesto, A., Kohlin, T., Thurin, J., and Blaszczyk-Thurin, M. (1990) J. Biol. Chem. 265, 15067-15075).
Cervical disc deformation during flexion–extension in asymptomatic controls and single‐level arthrodesis patients

The aim of this study was to characterize cervical disc deformation in asymptomatic subjects and single-level arthrodesis patients during in vivo functional motion. A validated model-based tracking technique determined vertebral motion from biplane radiographs collected during dynamic flexion-extension. Level-dependent differences in disc compression-distraction and shear deformation were identified within the anterior and posterior annulus (PA) and the nucleus of 20 asymptomatic subjects and 15 arthrodesis patients using a mixed-model statistical analysis. In asymptomatic subjects, disc compression and shear deformation per degree of flexion-extension progressively decreased from C23 to C67. The anterior and PA experienced compression-distraction deformation of up to 20%, while the nucleus region was compressed between 0% (C67) and 12% (C23). Peak shear deformation ranged from 16% (at C67) to 33% (at C45). In the C5-C6 arthrodesis group, C45 discs were significantly less compressed than in the control group in all disc regions (all p ≤ 0.026). In the C6-C7 arthrodesis group, C56 discs were significantly less compressed than the control group in the nucleus (p = 0.023) and PA (p = 0.014), but not the anterior annulus (AA; p = 0.137). These results indicate in vivo disc deformation is level-dependent, and single-level anterior arthrodesis alters the compression-distraction deformation in the disc immediately superior to the arthrodesis.
Low prevalence of echinococcus multilocularis in Michigan, U.S.A.: A survey of coyotes (Canis latrans), Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes), and Gray Foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), 2009-2012

ABSTRACT: Echinococcus multilocularis can cause serious disease and even death in humans. Despite its human health implications, nearly 20 years have elapsed since the last surveys for E. multilocularis have been conducted in the United States. Between April 2009 and December 2012, 302 coyotes (Canis latrans), gray foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from Michigan were examined for E. multilocularis. The cestode was identified in 1 coyote (0.4%, n = 223 coyotes) from the southwest portion of the state, representing the first report of E. multilocularis in this species in Michigan. Prevalence was lower than expected based on previous results in red foxes and coyotes in Michigan and nearby states.
Neutron reflection from faceted surfaces

Abstract Diffuse scattering, often taken as evidence that a surface is rough on very small length scales, can also arise when neutrons (or X-rays) are reflected from a surface composed of many smooth facets. For a surface composed of facets misoriented with respect to the average surface, the diffuse scattering displays a fringe at a wave vector transfer perpendicular to the surface that is equal to twice the critical wave vector. The damping of the specular reflectivity does not follow the usual Nevot-Croce form for such a faceted surface. A surface morphology of this type can explain data we have obtained by reflecting neutrons from several different samples including one of polished silicon.
Economic Origins of Dictatorship and Democracy

Daron Acemoglu & James A. Robinson Cambridge & New York, Cambridge University Press, 2006, 416 pp., $35.00 hardcover ISBN 0-521-85526-8 It is often assumed that societies transition to democracy wh...
Product life cycle research: A literature review

Abstract The purposes of this paper are threefold: to review the scope of product life cycle (PLC) research; to pinpoint areas requiring further investigation; and to provide guidelines for future researchers. Because of the paucity of empirical evidence, only tentative conclusions are advanced. For example, the most common PLC pattern is the classical, bell-shaped curve, but it is not the sole shape. The application of various forecasting techniques across the PLC have met with merely moderate success. Very little research has been conducted either on how different characteristics of the firm influence the PLC or on the actual use of various PLC-strategy theories by business planners. Finally, investigators have focused almost exclusively on validating the existence of the PLC concept among nondurable consumer goods. Industrial items, as well as major product changes, have been nearly ignored. The main conclusion is that additional research-more diversified and extensive in nature-is needed on many PLC topics.
Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity in Human Intrahepatic Biliary Epithelial Cell Lines From Patients With Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease

Hepatic cysts derived from intrahepatic bile ducts are the most common extrarenal manifestation of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). Cyst enlargement involves cell proliferation, fluid secretion into cysts, and alterations in extracellular matrix. To study hepatic cyst formation, continuous cell lines from human normal intrahepatic biliary epithelium (IBE) and ADPKD liver cyst-derived epithelium (LCDE) were developed. Because matrix degradation and remodeling are important for cyst formation and growth, we investigated matrix modifying enzymes expressed in IBE and LCDE cell lines. Gelatin substrate zymography showed that two matrix degrading activities with characteristics of matrix metalloproteinases are secreted from these cell lines. Western immunoblotting suggests that these activities correspond to the 72 kDa (Gelatinase A) and 92 kDa (Gelatinase B) type IV collagenases. Although the level of Gelatinase A activity is comparable in both IBE and LCDE cell lines, Gelatinase B activity is substantially increased in LCDE lines.
Synchronized retroperfusion of coronary veins for circulatory support of jeopardized ischemic myocardium

Abstract A retroperfusion system was developed that augments retrograde delivery of arterial blood into an acutely ischemic myocardial region during diastole and facilitates coronary venous drainage in systole. An electrocardiogram-synchronized, gas-actuated bladder pump propels retroperfusate through an autoinflatable balloon catheter whose tip is placed within the regional coronary vein that drains the ischemic myocardium. Experiments were performed in 26 closed chest dogs with 4 hour intracoronary balloon occlusion of the proximal left anterior descending coronary artery. An untreated control series consisted of 13 dogs; the remaining 13 dogs were treated with retroperfusion, which was initiated after the first hour of acute coronary occlusion. Synchronized retroperfusion resulted in a significant 37 ± 10 percent (mean ± standard error of the mean) decrease in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure from 11 ± 2 to 5 ± 21 mm Hg, a 20 ± 4 percent decrease in peak systolic pressure (140 ± 7 to 110 ± 6 mm Hg) and a 25 ± 6 percent reduction in systemic vascular resistance (3,880 ± 340 to 2,380 ± 300 dynes sec cm −5 ). Ischemic region intracoronary S-T segment elevation decreased 40 ± 15 percent, and potassium loss was reduced 92 ± 22 percent. Partial pressure of oxygen measured distal to the coronary occlusion decreased 36 ± 2 percent, suggesting oxygen delivery to and extraction by the jeopardized ischemic myocardium. Ventriculography in four dogs revealed an increase in left ventricular ejection fraction and reversal of ischemic segment dyskinesia by synchronized retroperfusion. A nitro-blue tetrazollum study of 10 excised hearts indicated that 3 hours of synchronized retroperfusion significantly reduced the size of Ischemic Injury to 3.3 ± 2 percent of the left ventricle (versus 16.2 ± 5 percent in the untreated control group). In addition, retroperfusion appeared to correct ischemic arrhythmias. The experimental data suggest that this treatment is capable of improving cardiac function and salvaging jeopardized myocardium. Clinical application is envisioned as a prompt temporary emergency support for acute and profound ischemic dysfunction not readily treatable by other interventions.
Ovulation rate and cycle characteristics in a subsequent clomiphene citrate cycle after stair-step protocol

Objective To determine the ovulation rate after ovulation induction with clomiphene citrate (CC) in women who had previously been ovulatory after a stair-step (CC-SS) ovulation induction. Design Retrospective cohort. Setting University–based tertiary fertility center. Patient(s) 61 anovulatory patients Intervention(s) Ovulation induction with CC. Main Outcome Measure(s) Ovulation rates and cycle characteristics. Result(s) Of 61 patients who underwent a subsequent CC cycle, 15 (25%) failed to ovulate at the previously ovulatory dose. Of those 15 patients, 13 (86.7%) ovulated after an increase in dose. The total number of follicles ≥15 mm (2.8 ± 1.2 vs. 1.6 ± 0.7) and peak estradiol (E 2 ) levels (604 ± 272 pg/mL vs. 447 ± 218 pg/mL) were statistically significantly higher in the CC-SS cycle compared with the subsequent CC cycle, respectively. The endometrial lining was statistically significantly thinner in the CC-SS than the CC cycle (7.8 ± 1.8 vs. 9.2 ± 2.7, respectively). Conclusion(s) The majority of patients who ovulate after a CC-SS protocol will ovulate after taking the previously ovulatory CC dose in a subsequent cycle. Those who do not ovulate will likely ovulate with a further increase in CC dose.
Status, habitat and conservation of the Rufous-fronted Antthrush Formicarius rufifrons

Habitat preferences of the Rufous-fronted Antthrush Formicarius rufifrons were studied along the Rio Tambopata in south-eastern Peru. All territories of this threatened species, endemic to lowland forests in the department of Madre de Dios, Peru, contained the near-juxtaposition of two distinct vegetation types: tall floodplain forest with shaded understorey, and more open, second-growth vegetation with a very dense layer of vegetation close to the ground. The latter habitat type was closely associated with disturbances, such as river erosion, tree falls, or human clearings. Two measures of antthrush density were calculated for the study area. A satellite photograph was used to identify appropriate habitat along the upper Rio Tambopata, and using the antthrush density figures, a population size of 100-500 pairs was estimated for this area. This estimate was then used to calculate a global population of 700-3,500 pairs. Approximately 207c of the global population occurs within currently protected areas. The habitat and diet of this species are discussed in relation to two othercongeners.Las preferencias de habitat de Formicarius rufifrons fueron estudiadas a lo largo del Tambopata en el sureste del Peru. Los territorios de esta amenazada especie, endemica de los bosques tropicales en el depto. de Madre de Dios, estan compuestos por dos formaciones vegetales distintas: bosque alto de llanura y vegetacion secundaria con un estrato inferior tupido. La vegetacion secundaria se debe a los trastornos ecologicos, tales como la erosion fluvial, las caidas de arboles, y tambien a la tala de bosques. Los limites inferior y superior de densidad (tasa de poblacion) fueron calculados en el area de estudio; los habitats apropriados se identificaron a lo largo del rio a traves de imagenes de satelite y se pudo calcular un total de 100-500 parejas para la zona. Se empleo la tasa poblacional, entonces, para calcular la supuesta poblacion global de 700-3,500 parejas. Hoy en dia, aproximadamente 20% de la poblacion global de la especie ocurre dentro de areas protegidas. Se trata, ademas, el habitat y la dieta de F. rufifrons en relation a dos especies congenericas.
Electrochemical detection of amino acids at carbon nanotube and nickel–carbon nanotube modified electrodes

The oxidation and enhanced detection of traditionally ‘non-electroactive’ amino acids at a single-wall carbon nanotube (SWNT) surface and at a nickel hydroxide film electrochemically deposited and generated upon the SWNT layer is reported. Different CNT are compared, with Nafion-dispersed SWNT offering the most favorable layer for constant-potential amperometric detection. Factors affecting the oxidation process, including the pH or applied potential, are assessed. The response of the SWNT–Nafion coated electrode compares favorably with that of copper and nickel disk electrodes under flow injection analysis (FIA) conditions. The electrodeposition of nickel onto the SWNT–Nafion layer (Ni–CNT) led to a dramatic enhancement of the analytical response (vs. that observed at the SWNT or nickel electrodes alone). The oxidative process at the Ni(OH)2 layer has been studied and the increase in sensitivity rationalized. In the presence of amino acid the Ni–CNT layer undergoes an electrocatalytic process in which the amino acid reduces the newly formed NiO(OH) species. Furthermore, the attractive response of both the CNT and Ni–CNT layers has allowed these electrodes to be used for constant-potential FIA of various amino acids and indicates great promise for monitoring chromatographic effluents. Once again an improved signal was observed at the Ni–CNT electrode compared to nickel deposited upon a bare glassy carbon electrode (Ni–GC).
Rapid Response: Real Time Capturing of Significant Organisms by a Simple Computer Based Tracking System

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: At our medical center the Microbiology lab (Micro) notifies Infection Control (IC) of all significant organisms (SO) as Vancomycin Resistant Enterococcus (VRE) Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase (ESBL) Clostridium difficile (Cdiff) and Resistant Gram Negative Bacilli (RGNB). The annual report for 2004 by Micro on SO prevalence disclosed that there had been 12 patients (Pts) with Cdiff from one clinical area suggesting a missed opportunity to investigate an outbreak. We realized that the IC computer program used for data collection did not identify clusters of like SO or provide an alert system for rapid intervention. Our goal was to develop an inexpensive, visual, real time tracking system that would rapidly identify SO and allow prompt intervention by Infection Control Practioners (ICP). METHODS: Our data analyst (DA) created an electronic spread sheet that color coded each SO by time and place and linked this to a Pts data sheet of IC relevance. The DA updated the system each time Micro reported a SO. The electronic data base was accessible to the ICP at any time. ICP placed the Pt on isolation and initiated an investigation when ≥2 like SO occurred in the same unit in one week. RESULTS: SO identified from March through Novermber 2005 are as follows: VRE 101, Cdiff 64, ESBL 37 and RGNB 34. Investigation of clusters showed the following 1) ESBL: 10 Pts in a 4 week period in the Intensive Care Units (ICUs). Strain characterization showed them to be multiple strains except in 2 Pts. 2) VRE: 18 over 7 months were from the Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT). Strain characterization showed two clonal patterns. 3) RGNB: 2 Pts from an ICU with a shared strain. 4) Cdiff: 5 were in one pediatric unit concurrently. 5) There was inconsistent understanding by employees on the need for soap/water hand hygiene with Cdiff. INTERVENTIONS: 1) IC collaborated with informatics service to include an IC active health issue field that allows IC to identify the Pts needing isolation for all admissions. 2) Developed a unique signage for Cdiff that identifies the need for using soap and water. 3) Created a process improvement team in BMT to address IC needs. 4) Increased the visibility of ICP on wards to provide continuous education of Pts/family and staff and share data from investigations with the staff. CONCLUSIONS: An inexpensive, computer based tracking system maintained by the DA allows the ICP to expand surveillance of SO, institute outbreak investigations promptly, instutute interventions based on findings and educate Pts/families and staff on IC practices. It also served to heighten the importance of antibiotic pressure on the evolution of SO.
The mate pursuit-predation avoidance tradeoff in the virile crayfish, Orconectes virilis

To better understand the tradeoff between mate pursuit and predation risk avoidance, the responses of male virile crayfish (Orconectes virilis) to female sex pheromone and conspecific alarm cue, alone and in combination were tested. Male crayfish were more active and exhibited less antipredator behavior in the pheromone treatment than in either the pheromone + alarm or alarm treatment. The results suggest a tradeoff in favor of risk avoidance when pheromone and risk stimuli are encountered together.
Two pyramid machine algorithms for edge detection in noisy binary images

Abstract This paper presents a pair of fast algorithms which detect edges in noisy binary images. The algorithms run on a parallel hierarchical cellular array processor called a pyramid machine. Example results are illustrated and the time required by each algorithm is discussed.
Percutaneous unknotting and retrieval of Swan-Ganz catheter.

An 18-month-old boy had a Swan-Ganz catheter inserted through the right femoral vein. A chest roentgenogram after placement showed that the catheter was advanced too far and was curled with multiple loops in the right atrium. Under fluoroscopy, the catheter was pulled back into the inferior vena cava (IVC) where the multiple loops formed a knot that prevented passage beyond the IVC bifurcation (Fig A). A forceps catheter (BIOPAL 7 formable biopsy forceps; Cordis Corporation, Miami, FL) (arrows) was inserted through the contralateral femoral vein to unknot (Fig B) and remove (Fig C) the Swan-Ganz catheter. The procedure was uncomplicated, and the patient demonstrated no sequelae on follow-up. The array of tools available to the interventional radiologist including forceps, hook or straight catheter, loop snare, tip-deflecting wire, flexible-tip guidewire, and retrieval basket to facilitate in vivo reduction of catheter knots, often precluding the need for venotomy or surgical removal [1, 2]. We recommend slow withdrawal under fluoroscopy of any Swan-Ganz catheter that has multiple loops or appears knotted. If the catheter fails to unfurl or meets resistance, an interventional radiologist should be consulted while the loops are still accessible to instrumentation.
Electromagnetic Standing Waves and Ball Lightning

BY now it is well known1–3 that charged particles moving in harmonically oscillating vacuum electromagnetic fields can be subject to time-average forces which establish a virtual potential minimum for them. The matter takes on a different aspect when the number of particles is so large as to form a highly conducting plasma, as in Kapitza's theory of ball lightning4. Then, quite aside from the details of the particle motions, we know that the radiation pressure of the inflowing electromagnetic radiation is exerted on the energy-dissipating plasma. Thus, if the maintenance of a local ball of fire requires about 20 kW. (2 × 1011 dyne cm. sec.−1), the total force, irrespective of direction, associated with this energy conversion will be 6.7 dynes. To the extent that, besides the 20 kW. absorbed, there may be energy reflected, this number will be greater. A reflected 20 kW. will contribute 13.3 dynes. This is far too little to hold a fire-ball at several thousands of degrees temperature and, say, 10 cm. in diameter from rising under the unidirectional buoyant force of about 600 dynes.