cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Food source provisioning and susceptibility of immature and adult Tribolium castaneum on concrete partially treated with chlorfenapyr (Phantom

A series of experiments were conducted in which adults, pupae, and 4-week-old larvae of Tribolium castaneum (Herbst), the red flour beetle, were exposed separately on concrete arenas partially treated (14.4% of the total area) with the insecticide chlorfenapyr (Phantom®) at 1.1 g of active ingredient/m2. A flour food source (patch) was also provided in the untreated portions of the arenas. In the first trial, adult mortality averaged 60.0 ± 10.6%, but progeny production occurred in the provided food patches. Pupal mortality was only 8.3 ± 3.1%, indicating that when adult emergence occurred, those adults were able to escape exposure, and there was no difference in progeny production from that in untreated controls (P = 0.27). In the second trial, few larvae exposed in choice and no-choice arenas were able to emerge as normal adults. In a final trial, residual efficacy declined during a 3-week period, with larvae being more susceptible than adults. Results show mobility of life stage may be a determining factor when assessing susceptibility of T. castaneum to contact insecticides.
Comparison of ovine and rat muscle-derived satellite cells: response to insulin

A chemically defined medium has been formulated which supports the growth (proliferation and differentiation) of rat- and ovine-derived myogenic satellite cells in vitro. Utilization of this medium in a direct comparison study in which satellite cells from both species were exposed to insulin resulted in the following observations: (1) insulin promoted the dose-dependent proliferation of primary cultures of ovine-derived but not rat-derived satellite cells and (2) rat-derived satellite cells fused to form multinucleated myotubes when exposed to increasing levels of insulin. Collectively, these observations suggest that the rat satellite cell culture system may not be an appropriate model system for extrapolating in vitro growth data to variables of ruminant skeletal muscle growth.
Primary iliac stenting versus transluminal angioplasty with selective stenting.

Background The preferential use of primary iliac stenting vs selective stenting is controversial. This study compares the early and late clinical outcomes of primary vs selective iliac stenting at our institution. Methods A total of 110 consecutive patients with iliac stenosis (149 lesions) underwent primary stenting over a recent 5-year period (primary stent group). The early technical and clinical success and late clinical outcomes were compared with 41 patients (41 iliac lesions) who had percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) followed by selective stenting for suboptimal PTA (selective stent group). All patients were evaluated clinically and by duplex scanning with ankle-brachial indexes at 1, 6, and 12 months and every 12 months thereafter. Results The perioperative complication rate for the primary stent group was 2.7% (three minor hematomas) vs 24% for the selective stent group (P Conclusions The overall early clinical success rate was superior for the primary stent group. However, the initial (early) and late clinical success rates were comparable for short lesions (TASC - A and B lesions), but were inferior in selective stenting for longer lesions (TASC - C and D). Therefore, primary stenting should be offered to all TASC - C and D lesions.
Mechanistic and Single-Dose In Vivo Therapeutic Studies of Cry5B Anthelmintic Action against Hookworms

Background Hookworm infections are one of the most important parasitic infections of humans worldwide, considered by some second only to malaria in associated disease burden. Single-dose mass drug administration for soil-transmitted helminths, including hookworms, relies primarily on albendazole, which has variable efficacy. New and better hookworm therapies are urgently needed. Bacillus thuringiensis crystal protein Cry5B has potential as a novel anthelmintic and has been extensively studied in the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans. Here, we ask whether single-dose Cry5B can provide therapy against a hookworm infection and whether C. elegans mechanism-of-action studies are relevant to hookworms. Methodology/Principal Findings To test whether the C. elegans invertebrate-specific glycolipid receptor for Cry5B is relevant in hookworms, we fed Ancylostoma ceylanicum hookworm adults Cry5B with and without galactose, an inhibitor of Cry5B-C. elegans glycolipid interactions. As with C. elegans, galactose inhibits Cry5B toxicity in A. ceylanicum. Furthermore, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), which controls one of the most important Cry5B signal transduction responses in C. elegans, is functionally operational in hookworms. A. ceylanicum hookworms treated with Cry5B up-regulate p38 MAPK and knock down of p38 MAPK activity in hookworms results in hypersensitivity of A. ceylanicum adults to Cry5B attack. Single-dose Cry5B is able to reduce by >90% A. ceylanicum hookworm burdens from infected hamsters, in the process eliminating hookworm egg shedding in feces and protecting infected hamsters from blood loss. Anthelmintic activity is increased about 3-fold, eliminating >97% of the parasites with a single 3 mg dose (∼30 mg/kg), by incorporating a simple formulation to help prevent digestion in the acidic stomach of the host mammal. Conclusions/Significance These studies advance the development of Cry5B protein as a potent, safe single-dose anthelmintic for hookworm therapy and make available the information of how Cry5B functions in C. elegans in order to study and improve Cry5B function against hookworms.
Cross-linking the Linear Polymeric Chains in the ATRP Synthesis of Iron Oxide/Polystyrene Core/Shell Nanoparticles

ATRP polymerization has been used for the synthesis of DVB-cross-linked polystyrene/iron oxide shell/core nanoparticles.
The relation between career decision-making strategies and person–job fit: A study of job changers

Abstract This study examined relations between three career decision-making strategies (rational, intuitive, and dependent) and person–job fit among 361 professionals who had recently changed jobs. We found that the relation between each decision-making strategy and fit was contingent upon the concurrent use of other strategies. A rational strategy related more strongly to fit when individuals also engaged in extensive intuitive decision making than when they engaged in limited intuitive decision making. In addition, a dependent strategy related negatively to fit only in the absence of extensive rational or intuitive strategies. Moreover, self-awareness and awareness of the environment mediated relations between career decision-making strategies and person–job fit. The implications of these findings for future research on career decision making were discussed.
Introduction to a Special Issue on Surface Analysis

The surface, or topmost layers of a material, is the region that is in contact with the environment. The composition and chemistry of the surface often can be drastically different from that of the bulk. For many materials systems (catalysts, coatings, biomedical devices, etc.), the surface chemistry and/or properties determine the device performance. Adhesion, delamination, staining, and corrosion are among the important surface phenomena that need to be understood in industrial settings. Over the past forty years, a number of surface analysis techniques have been commercialized to characterize the composition and microstructure of the surface. The most commonly used techniques are summarized in this issue of Microscopy Today.
Ballistic Transport in Graphene Nanostrips in the Presence of Disorder: Importance of Edge Effects

Stimulated by recent advances in isolating graphene and similarities to single-wall carbon nanotubes, simulations were performed to assess the effects of static disorder on the conductance of metallic armchair- and zigzag-edge graphene nanostrips. Both strip types were found to have outstanding ballistic transport properties in the presence of a substrate-induced disorder. However, only the zigzag-edge strips retain these properties in the presence of irregular edges, making them better initial synthetic targets for ballistic device applications.
Expression of insulin-like 3 (INSL3) and differential splicing of its receptor in the ovary of rhesus macaques

Although insulin-like 3 (INSL3) has been identified in the gonad of both sexes in many species, there are only limited reports on the distribution of INSL3 and its receptor, relaxin/insulin-like family peptide receptor 2 (RXFP2), in the primate ovary. Since the hormone-receptor pair is believed to play a role in female reproduction, investigating the transcription of INSL3/RXFP2 genes and the spatiotemporal expression of INSL3 in the nonhuman primate may shed light on the functional aspects of the system in humans. Database mining, molecular and immunological methods were applied. One single INSL3 transcript and three novel splice variant transcripts of RXFP2 were identified in the ovary of rhesus macaques. While the full-length RXFP2 transcript is barely detectable in granulosa cells during the periovulatory period, INSL3 transcript and protein are highly abundant in theca cells surrounding antral follicles. Moreover, the INSL3 level in follicular fluid is 3-4 times higher than that in female serum which remains low throughout the menstrual cycle. The presence of INSL3 and its receptor in the ovary implies a potential role of the ligand-receptor pair in female reproduction in nonhuman primates. However, the existence of multiple splice variants of RXFP2 indicates a very complex nature of the hormone-receptor system.
Identification of barriers to the prevention and treatment of heat-related illness in Latino farmworkers using activity-oriented, participatory rural appraisal focus group methods

Background Heat-related illness (HRI) is an important cause of non-fatal illness and death in farmworkers. We sought to identify potential barriers to HRI prevention and treatment in Latino farmworkers.
The gastroscopic inspection of the pylorus

1. Faulty technique may discredit the endoscopic examination of the stomach with the flexible gastroscope. 2. The possibility of seeing the pylorus is the most important single criterion of a good, successful gastroscopic examination. 3. In our series the pylorus was seen in 285 (91.1%) of 313 cases in which it should have been seen. 4. Gastroscopic technique should not be considered satisfactory if the pylorus is not observed in at least 80% of all possible cases. 5. The technique for the finding of the pylorus is described.
Stability and instability in high performance (metastable) composite strands during I–V measurement

Abstract Factors affecting the measurement of critical current density ( J c ) in high performance Nb 3 Sn strands are discussed. Sample holder design and sample mounting procedures are considered in the light of cryogenic heat flow considerations. Also discussed are: the steady state measurability of metastable strands at current densities ( J ) at and above their nominal J c , and mechanisms governing their quench at sufficiently high values of J greater than J c .
Effects of calcium on cholinergic-stimulated gastrin release in the rat

Abstract The effects of alterations in availability and access of extracellular media calcium on antral gastrin release were examined in the basal state and in response to cholinergic stimulation in rat antral organ culture experiments. In the presence of either divalent cationic chelator (EGTA) or calcium channel blocker (verapamil, nifedipine), carbachol-stimulated gastrin release was inhibited completely to values that were not significantly different from non-stimulated control. In the absence of added calcium chloride, carbachol stimulated gastrin release during the initial 30 min of culture but not at 60 and 120 min of culture. Inhibition by EGTA and verapamil of carbachol-stimulated gastrin release during the initial 30 min of culture suggests, but does not prove, that these agents may also affect intracellular availability and movement of calcium. Cholinergic stimulation of gastrin release demonstrated a concentration-dependent relationship with extracellular calcium: optimal culture media calcium concentration was 1 mM. In conclusion, these studies indicate that cholinergic stimulation of the gastrin cell requires availability of extracellular calcium.
A finite element implementation for biphasic contact of hydrated porous media under finite deformation and sliding

The study of biphasic soft tissue contact is fundamental to understand the biomechanical behavior of human diarthrodial joints. However, to date, only few biphasic finite element contact analyses for three-dimensional physiological geometries under finite deformation have been developed. The objective of this article is to develop a hyperelastic biphasic contact implementation for finite deformation and sliding problem. An augmented Lagrangian method was used to enforce the continuity of contact traction and fluid pressure across the contact interface. The finite element implementation was based on a general purpose software, COMSOL Multiphysics. The accuracy of the implementation is verified using example problems, for which solutions are available by alternative analyses. The implementation was proven to be robust and able to handle finite deformation and sliding.
Inhibitory effect of dicationic diphenylfurans on production of type I collagen by human fibroblasts and activated hepatic stellate cells

Excessive production of extracellular matrix is responsible for clinical manifestations of fibroproliferative disorders and drugs which can inhibit excessive synthesis of type I collagen are needed for the therapy. Several dicationic diphenylfurans were synthesized and were found to bind RNA. Two of these type compounds were able to reduce synthesis of type I collagen by human fibroblasts and human activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Activated HSCs are responsible for collagen production in liver fibrosis. When added at 40 microM compound 588 reduced intracellular level and secretion of procollagen alpha1(I) by 50%, while compound 654 reduced these parameters by more than 80% at 20 microM. 654 also significantly reduced secretion of fibronectin. Toxic effects were observed at 80 microM for 588 and 40 microM for 654. 654 reduced expression of a reporter gene with collagen signal peptide, while expression of the same gene without signal peptide was unaffected. Also, expression of intracellular proteins tubulin and calnexin was unchanged. 654 accumulated inside the cell in the cytoplasm and did not change the steady-state level of collagen mRNAs. Treatment of cells with proteosome inhibitor MG132 did not change the inhibitory effect of 654, suggesting that 654 acts as suppressor of translation of proteins containing a signal peptide. Most secreted proteins of fibroblasts and activated HSCs are components of extracellular matrix. Therefore inhibition of their production, as shown here for procollagen alpha1(I) and fibronectin, may be a useful property of some of diphenylfurans, making these compounds a basis for development of antifibrotic drugs.
Solution of electromagnetic scattering and radiation problems using a spectral domain approach - A review

This paper presents a brief review of some recent developments on the use of the spectral-domain approach for deriving high-frequency solutions to electromagnetics scattering and radiation problems. The spectral approach is not only useful for interpreting the well-known Keller formulas based on the geometrical theory of diffraction (GTD), it can also be employed for verifying the accuracy of GTD and other asymptotic solutions and systematically improving the results when such improvements are needed. The problem of plane wave diffraction by a finite screen or a strip is presented as an example of the application of the spectral-domain approach.
Stem cell plasticity revisited: The continuum marrow model and phenotypic changes mediated by microvesicles

The phenotype of marrow hematopoietic stem cells is determined by cell-cycle state and microvesicle entry into the stem cells. The stem cell population is continually changing based on cell-cycle transit and can only be defined on a population basis. Purification of marrow stem cells only addresses the heterogeneity of these populations. When whole marrow is studied, the long-term repopulating stem cells are in active cell cycle. However, with some variability, when highly purified stem cells are studied, the cells appear to be dormant. Thus, the study of purified stem cells is intrinsically misleading. Tissue-derived microvesicles enhanced by injury effect the phenotype of different cell classes. We propose that previously described stem cell plasticity is due to microvesicle modulation. We further propose a stem cell population model in which the individual cell phenotypes continually change, but the population phenotype is relatively stable. This, in turn, is modulated by microvesicle and microenvironmental influences.
Capital growth in a global warming model: will China and India sign a climate treaty?

Global warming is now recognized as a significant threat to sustainable development on an international scale. One of the key challenges in mounting a global response to it is the seeming unwillingness of the fastest growing economies such as China and India to sign a treaty that limits their emissions. The aim of this paper is to examine the differential incentives of countries on different trajectories of capital growth. A benchmark dynamic game to study global warming, introduced in Dutta and Radner (2009), is generalized to allow for exogenous capital accumulation. It is shown that the presence of capital execerbates the “tragedy of the common”. Furthermore, even with high discount factors, the threat of reverting to the inefficient “tragedy” equilibrium is not sufficient to deter the emissions growth of the fastest growing economies—in contrast to standard folk theorem like results. However, foreign aid can help. If the slower growth economies—like the United States and Western Europe—are willing to make transfers to China and India then the latter can be incentivized to cut emissions. Such an outcome is Pareto improving for both slower and faster growth economies.
Detectability of Burst-Like Signals

The detectability of signals with burst-like qualities is investigated. Detectability is interpreted in terms of the performance of the optimum (likelihood ratio) detector for this type of signal. At low false alarm probabilities, long signal bursts interspersed by long periods of signal absence are found to be more detectable than short, rapid bursts. Essentially opposite results are true for shorter bursts.
Job Satisfaction, Productivity, and Organizational Commitment: The Result of Leadership

When healthcare managers use certain leadership behaviors, does it really make a difference in employee outcomes? Is there an impact on job satisfaction, productivity, and organizational commitment? The author compares the findings in two research studies conducted in different hospital settings. She then describes practical application of the findings for the nursing administrator.
The Margaret Mead Controversy: Culture, Biology and Anthropological Inquiry

A propos de la controverse soulevee par le livre de D. Freeman, Margaret Mead and Samoa: The Making and Unmaking of an Anthropological, Myth, Cambridge, MA: Harvard Univ. Press, 1983.
Electrolyte interactions with vapor dosed and solution dosed carbon monoxide on platinum (111)

Abstract Carbon monoxide adsorption and interactions with electrolyte species were examined for a Pt(111) electrode in 0.1M HClO 4 . The experiments were conducted with an ex situ ultrahigh vacuum (UHV)-electrochemical system, with CO being adsorbed either from the vapor phase in the vacuum chamber or from solution. CO oxidation coulometry and cyclic voltammetry were used to characterize CO coverage in solution, and thermal desorption spectroscopy was used to measure CO coverage in vacuum, desorption kinetics and to detect coadsorbed electrolyte species. In agreement with earlier studies, the saturation coverage of 0.68 ML of CO from solution dosing is nearly 40% greater than the saturation coverage of 0.50 ML in vacuum at room temperature. The higher saturation coverages survive transfer to vacuum, but only in the presence of coadsorbed electrolyte species (H 2 O and ClO 4 ) retained after removal of the electrode from the electrolyte. In the absence of coadsorbed electrolyte species, saturated, solution dosed CO transferred to vacuum exhibits the same coverage as vapor dosed CO. Interaction between CO and electrolyte species was confirmed through detection of both in thermal desorption following immersion of a vapor dosed CO adlayer into solution and back-transfer to vacuum. Kinetic modeling of CO thermal desorption showed that, regardless of whether CO is adsorbed from solution or from vapor, the COCO repulsive interactions are approximately 40% less when electrolyte species are retained than when they are absent.
SINGLE-UNIT ACTIVITY IN PIRIFORM CORTEX DURING SLOW-WAVE STATE IS SHAPED BY RECENT ODOR EXPERIENCE

Memory and its underlying neural plasticity play important roles in sensory discrimination and cortical pattern recognition in olfaction. Given the reported function of slow-wave sleep states in neocortical and hippocampal memory consolidation, we hypothesized that activity during slow-wave states within the piriform cortex may be shaped by recent olfactory experience. Rats were anesthetized with urethane and allowed to spontaneously shift between slow-wave and fast-wave states as recorded in local field potentials within the anterior piriform cortex. Single-unit activity of piriform cortical layer II/III neurons was recorded simultaneously. The results suggest that piriform cortical activity during slow-wave states is shaped by recent (several minutes) odor experience. The temporal structure of single-unit activity during slow waves was modified if the animal had been stimulated with an odor within the receptive field of that cell. If no odor had been delivered, the activity of the cell during slow-wave activity was stable across the two periods. The results demonstrate that piriform cortical activity during slow-wave state is shaped by recent odor experience, which could contribute to odor memory consolidation.
Cytotoxic radiolysis products of irradiated alpha,beta-unsaturated carbonyl sugars as the carbohydrates.

Radiolysis of sugar produces α,β-unsaturated carbonyl sugars which are found to be cytotoxic. Schubert and Sanders' results have important implications for the safety of irradiated foods.
S-Curve dynamics of trade between U.S. and China

Abstract A newly emerging area in international economics looks at the cross-correlation coefficient between past and future values of the trade balance and movement in the current exchange rate as a way of analyzing the response of the trade balance to exchange rate changes. Since the cross-correlation function follows a symmetric pattern, it comes under the heading of the S-Curve. Previous studies have considered the experience of developed and developing countries with the S-Curve, excluding China. In this paper we consider the Chinese experience. We show that when aggregate trade data between China and the U.S. are considered, there is no evidence of the S-Curve. However, when the data are disaggregated by commodity, the S-Curve is supported in almost 50% of the close to 100 industries considered. Furthermore, it appears that commodity types do not have any influence in determining the existence of an S-Curve pattern.
Wavelet analysis of random fields and multiresolution Wiener filtering

We explore the relationship between random processes and wavelets in multiple dimensions and their application to statistical signal processing. To this end, we introduce a multiresolution Wiener filter (MWF) that is applied to the wavelet coefficients of a random process. The MWF is based upon the multiresolution Wiener-Hopf (MWH) equation, which is derived using orthogonal projection theorem on a Hilbert space. The MWH is applied to the solution of the signal estimation problem for both stationary and fractional Brownian motion (fBm) processes. A theoretical mean square error is calculated for the MWF and its values compared to experimental data.
An algorithm for microcode compaction of VHDL behavioral descriptions

We present an algorithm to transform a sequential (vertical microcode) VHDL (VHSIC Hardware Description Language) behavioral description of a digital system design into a parallel (horizontal microcode) VHDL description. Data dependency analysis is performed on the sequential code to identify the parallelism within the code. This parallel VHDL code is targeted for synthesis by the MIMOLA synthesis system.
A divergence theorem for Finsler metrics

By means of the general form of Stokes' theorem on manifolds a divergence theorem is derived for hypersurfaces which bound a compact region of ann-dimensional Finsler spaceFn. In general the integrand of then-fold volume integral will depend on the covariant derivatives of an arbitrary vector field which defines the element of support; certain conditions under which this dependence may be circumvented are discussed. The scalar curvature ofFn is expressed in terms of the divergence of a certain vector field: forn=2 this formula reduces to a particularly simple form, and its substitution into the aforementioned divergence theorem gives rise to a formula which represents a generalization of the classical Gauss-Bonnet Theorem.
Sweet-scented Indian-plantain, Hasteola suaveolens (L.) Pojark., in Riparian Plant Communities of the Allegheny River Islands Wilderness, Pennsylvania

Abstract Sweet-scented Indian-plantain, Hasteola suaveolens (L.) Pojark., is a species of special concern in 13 states and jurisdictions in the eastern United States and occurs predominantly in riparian habitats. In the Allegheny National Forest (ANF) of northwestern Pennsylvania, H. suaveolens is considered a species with viability concerns. I surveyed riparian plant communities in the Allegheny River Islands Wilderness (ARIW) of the ANF to provide information on the habitat affinities of H. suaveolens useful for conservation and management needs. Hasteola suaveolens was located within 13 of 42 survey sites on six of the seven islands in the ARIW and occurred in three riparian community types: a floodplain scour community dominated by native herbaceous plants an Acer saccharinum–Platanus occidentalis floodplain savanna community and a Platanus occidentalis–Carya cordiformis (Wang.) K. Koch–Ulmus rubra Muhl. floodplain savanna community. Occurrences of H. suaveolens were largely associated with elevated f...
Agricultural Decision Analysis

Contents : Introduction to Decision Analysis; Probablility; Revision of Probabilities; Utility; Procedures for Decision Analysis; Production under Risk; Whole-Farm Planning under Risk; Investment Appraisal; Decision Analysis with Preferences Unknown; Appendix; Author Index; Subject Index
Environmental Determinants of Decision-Making Uncertainty in Marketing Channels:

To function, a marketing channel must have a certain amount of consensus and coordinated decision making among its members. Marketing channel theory has emphasized the “internal” mechanisms of achi...
The effects of aggregation, protein binding and cellular incorporation on the photophysical properties of benzoporphyrin derivative monoacid ring A (BPDMA).

Abstract Absorption, fluorescence and laser flash photolysis spectroscopies were used to investigate the effects of self-aggregation, binding to human serum albumin and incorporation in cancer cells on the photophysics of benzoporphyrin derivative monoacid ring A (BPDMA). Aggregation of BPDMA has been studied in mixtures of methanol and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). The extent of aggregation was dependent on dye concentration and solvent composition, becoming particularly marked in mixtures containing less than 30% methanol. A dimerization constant Kd or 9 × 106 M−1 was determined by fluorescence experiments for BPDMA in pure PBS. In addition to spectral modifications, aggregation induces a lowering of the fluorescence and intersystem crossing quantum yields. Human serum albumin binds BPDMA with an association constant Kb of 5.2 × 105 M−1 in PBS. When bound to HSA, BPDMA displays photophysical properties very similar to the monomer in organic solvents. The molar ratio [HSA]/[BPDMA] corresponding to complete binding of the dye was determined to be approximately 10. Efficient generation of the triplet state of BPDMA was also observed from aqueous cellular suspensions containing incorporated photosensitizer.
Diagnosis and Management of the Acute Red Eye

The red eye is one of the most frequent presenting complaints in the emergency department setting. A wide spectrum of disease processes may present as a red eye, ranging from benign self-limiting etiologies to serious vision-threatening ones. The emergency physician must be adept at recognizing "red flags" from the history and physical examination that necessitate immediate treatment and referral. In addition, it is imperative for the emergency physician to recognize the need for immediate versus elective ophthalmologist consultation for the various conditions. This article includes a discussion of the key historical features, clinical presentations, physical examination findings, and management of the more common causes of the red eye.
Estimation of Test Length for Domain-Referenced Reading Comprehension Tests

A sampling methodology is proposed for determining the lengths of tests designed to assess the comprehension or readability of written discourse. It is an extension of Bormuth’s (1) work on transformational analysis within a domain-referenced measurement framework. The sampling units specific to this type of analysis and alternative sampling models are examined. Guidelines are provided for computing sample size and selecting the sample of sentences to which the transformational rules can be applied. A table of sample sizes for a given set of conditions is presented to aid the practitioner in utilizing the sampling theory.
Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Mitrofanoff Appendicovesicostomy (RALMA)

The area of robotic surgery has steadily changed the field of urology. This minimally invasive approach is proving itself as a practical option, even in the pediatric patient. Robotic surgery allows the surgeon to perform fine suturing and precise dissection under magnified vision, making it ideal for complex reconstructive urinary tract surgery. Mitrofanoff appendicovesicostomy allows for effective emptying of the bladder while maintaining continence in children that cannot otherwise perform urethral catheterizations. Initial reports and series are encouraging, and appear to be comparable to that of open appendicoveiscostomy. In this review, we examine the current literature regarding robotic-assisted laparoscopic Mitrofanoff appendicovesicostomy in children, provide technical recommendations and compare the outcomes with published open series. As more parents seek minimally invasive options for their children and robotic technology continues to develop throughout more centers, robotic surgical applications will expand to even more complex reconstructions.
Coronary stents: A health system perspective

The introduction and widespread application of coronary stenting is one of the most important developments in interventional cardiology.More than 400,000 Americans undergo coronary artery interventional procedures each year,and most estimates indicate that stents are deployed in more than half of these patients.1 This increase in stent deployment is accompanied by rapidly evolving techniques,new stent designs,and adjunctive therapy.Unfortunately,clinical practice has changed well ahead of supporting data regarding efficacy. The advent of managed, particularly capitated, care has placed a high premium on using only those therapeutic interventions that have a proven effect on outcome.This need to reduce unnecessary costs has increased the focus on evidence-based medical care and has led to widespread agreement, among both the medical profession and the public, that therapeutic measures cannot be justified on anecdotal experience alone. Coronary stenting provides a special challenge in this regard because its use is triggered by commonly used angiographic diagnostic studies.With the mergers, collaborations, and coalitions among health care institutions, the issue of the cost-effectiveness of coronary stenting has become sharply focused, especially as it relates to populations within regions, age groups, and health plans.The following questions and answers address the current status of coronary stenting from a health system perspective.
High-resolution melting analysis for mutation scanning in the non-coding control region of JC polyomavirus from patients with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy

JC polyomavirus (JCV) is the causative agent of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a fatal demyelinating disease. JCV isolates from PML patients have hypervariable mutations in the noncoding control region (NCCR) of the viral genome. Although nucleotide sequencing analysis of NCCR mutation is useful for the confirmation of PML diagnosis and basic studies examining JCV variants, it is often labor-intensive, time-consuming, and expensive. This study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of a high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis technique for the rapid and low-cost scanning of NCCR mutations. The real-time PCR-HRM assay was developed with a pair of primers targeting the NCCR, and mutational patterns of NCCRs were compared using sequence-confirmed JCV DNA clones and CSF DNAs from PML patients. The NCCR patterns of DNA clones of the archetype JCV and PML-type variants could be differentiated by PCR-HRM. The mutational patterns of the rearranged NCCR clones were similar to those of JCV variants in the original CSF specimens as judged by nested PCR-HRM using pre-amplified targets. In addition, nested PCR-HRM could distinguish NCCR mutations in the JCV DNAs from each specimen at the patient level. These results indicate that the HRM-based assay affords a valuable technique for PML diagnosis and a versatile tool for the rapid scanning of NCCR mutations.
Finding the Right Words at the Right Time — High-Value Advance Care Planning

Ms. C died in the ICU after an unsuccessful resuscitation attempt — probably not what she would have wanted, though nobody knew for certain. Advance care planning discussions are difficult, and evidence suggests that targeting everyone for them might dilute our efforts.
A 53-year-old man with fever, clubbing, hemoptysis, and rapid onset of respiratory failure.

(CHEST 2007; 131:1974–1977) A 53-year-old man presented to the emergency department complaining of hemoptysis and a 3-month history of progressive dyspnea on exertion. He also reported a history of dry cough, malaise, anorexia, and 20-lb weight loss within the same time period. He smoked one pack of cigarettes per day for 30 years. His medical history was unremarkable. Occupational and family histories were noncontrib
Characterizing the transition from paediatric to adult care among emerging adults with Type 1 diabetes

Aims The goals of the study were to describe the transition of youth with Type 1 diabetes from paediatric to adult healthcare services, examine the link of this transition with self care and glycaemic control, and distinguish youth who received medical treatment from different physicians in terms of demographic and parent relationship variables. Methods Youth with Type 1 diabetes (n = 118) were enrolled in a prospective study that examined the transition from the paediatric to adult healthcare systems and were evaluated during their senior year of high school (time 1) and 1 year later (time 2). Data on self care, glycaemic control and parent relationship were collected. Results The majority of youth saw a paediatric endocrinologist at both assessments (n = 64); others saw an adult care physician at both assessments (n = 26) or transitioned from a paediatric endocrinologist to an adult care physician (n = 19). Nine youth saw no physician between time 1 and time 2. There were group differences in demographic and parent relationship variables and self-care behaviour and glycaemic control related to the transition of care. Youth who remained in the paediatric healthcare system had the best self care and did not experience declines in glycaemic control over time. Conclusions Early transition from the paediatric healthcare system to the adult healthcare system is associated with psychosocial variables and worse glycaemic control. Future research should identify factors that determine optimal timing and strategies to avoid deterioration of care and control during this transition.
Comparison of spike-sorting algorithms for future hardware implementation

Applications such as brain-machine interfaces require hardware spike sorting in order to (1) obtain single-unit activity and (2) perform data reduction for wireless transmission of data. Such systems must be low-power, low-area, high-accuracy, automatic, and able to operate in real time. Several detection and feature extraction algorithms for spike sorting are described briefly and evaluated in terms of accuracy versus computational complexity. The nonlinear energy operator method is chosen as the optimal spike detection algorithm, being most robust over noise and relatively simple. The discrete derivatives method [1] is chosen as the optimal feature extraction method, maintaining high accuracy across SNRs with a complexity orders of magnitude less than that of traditional methods such as PCA.
Response of human-immunodeficiency-virus-associated neurological disease to 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine.

Abstract Four patients with human-immunodeficiency-virus-associated neurological disease were treated with 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine (AZT). Three (two with chronic dementia, and one with chronic dementia and peripheral neuropathy) improved as assessed by clinical examination, psychometric tests, nerve conduction studies, and/or positron emission tomography; there was no improvement in the fourth patient who presented with paraplegia. These results support the hypothesis that certain AIDS-virus-associated neurological abnormalities are reversible by antiretroviral chemotherapy.
Cellular adaptation to chronic ethanol results in altered compartmentalization and function of the scaffolding protein RACK1.

Background: Previously, we found that acute ethanol induces the translocation of the scaffolding protein RACK1 to the nucleus. Recently, we found that nuclear RACK1 mediates acute ethanol induction of immediate early gene c-fos expression. Alterations in gene expression are thought to lead to long-term changes that ultimately contribute to the development of alcohol addiction and toxicity. Therefore, we sought to determine the effects of chronic exposure of cells to ethanol on the cellular compartmentalization of RACK1 and on c-fos messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression. Methods: Rat C6 glioma cells were used as the cell culture model. Immunohistochemistry was implemented to visualize the localization of RACK1 and to monitor the protein level of c-fos. Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to measure c-fos mRNA levels. The Tat-protein transduction method was used to transduce recombinant Tat-RACK1 into cells as previously described. Results: Chronic exposure of cells to 200 mM ethanol for 24 and 48 hr resulted in the gradual re-distribution of RACK1 out of the nucleus. It is interesting to note that acute ethanol re-challenge immediately after chronic treatment did not result in RACK1 translocation to the nucleus, and nuclear compartmentalization of RACK1 in response to acute ethanol was detected only after 24 hr of withdrawal. Similar patterns were obtained for c-fos expression. Chronic exposure to ethanol did not result in an increase in mRNA or protein levels of c-fos. Furthermore, acute ethanol exposure did not increase c-fos protein levels in cells that were first treated chronically with ethanol. However, transduction of exogenous RACK1 expressed as a Tat-fusion protein was able to rescue c-fos mRNA expression after chronic ethanol exposure. Conclusions: Our data suggest that RACK1 nuclear compartmentalization and ethanol-induced c-fos expression are transient and are desensitized to ethanol during prolonged exposure to high concentrations. The desensitization is temporary, and RACK1 can respond to acute ethanol treatment after a 24-hr withdrawal period. Our data further suggest that the altered compartmentalization of RACK1 leads to differences in c-fos expression upon acute or chronic exposure to ethanol. In summary, RACK1 is an important molecular mediator of the acute and chronic actions of ethanol on the expression of c-fos. These findings could have implications for the molecular signaling pathways leading to pathologic states associated with alcoholism, including toxicity.
In vitro toxicity of silica nanoparticles in human lung cancer cells

The cytotoxicity of 15-nm and 46-nm silica nanoparticles was investigated by using crystalline silica (Min-U-Sil 5) as a positive control in cultured human bronchoalveolar carcinoma-derived cells. Exposure to 15-nm or 46-nm SiO(2) nanoparticles for 48 h at dosage levels between 10 and 100 microg/ml decreased cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. Both SiO(2) nanoparticles were more cytotoxic than Min-U-Sil 5; however, the cytotoxicities of 15-nm and 46-nm silica nanoparticles were not significantly different. The 15-nm SiO(2) nanoparticles were used to determine time-dependent cytotoxicity and oxidative stress responses. Cell viability decreased significantly as a function of both nanoparticle dosage (10-100 microg/ml) and exposure time (24 h, 48 h, and 72 h). Indicators of oxidative stress and cytotoxicity, including total reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione, malondialdehyde, and lactate dehydrogenase, were quantitatively assessed. Exposure to SiO(2) nanoparticles increased ROS levels and reduced glutathione levels. The increased production of malondialdehyde and lactate dehydrogenase release from the cells indicated lipid peroxidation and membrane damage. In summary, exposure to SiO(2) nanoparticles results in a dose-dependent cytotoxicity in cultural human bronchoalveolar carcinoma-derived cells that is closely correlated to increased oxidative stress.
Commentary: Considerations in Pedagogy and Assessment in the Use of Computers to Promote Learning About Scientific Models

Although one role of computers in science education is to help students learn specific science concepts, computers are especially intriguing as a vehicle for fostering the development of epistemological knowledge about the nature of scientific knowledge—what it means to "know" in a scientific sense (diSessa, 1985). In this vein, the article by Cullin & Crawford (2003) investigated using computer modeling activities in the curriculum of a science methods course. Their goals, which transcended improving their students’ understanding of specific models, were aimed at improving their students’ appreciation of the nature of scientific modeling in general. This response to their article discusses their findings in relation to considerations pertaining to instruction and assessment in this area. Improving preservice teachers’ understanding of the nature of modeling in science is important in part because it supports a related goal of improving students’ understanding in this area. To further make the case for the value of an understanding of the nature of models in science, and as a complement to Cullin and Crawford’s discussion of teachers’ understanding of models, this response also discusses examples from a study of high school students’ interpretation of a scientific news report involving computer models.
Challenges in randomized controlled trials and emerging multiple sclerosis therapeutics

The remarkable global development of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) specific for multiple sclerosis (MS) has significantly reduced the frequency of relapse, slowed the progression of disability, and improved the quality of life in patients with MS. With increasing numbers of approved DMTs, neurologists in North America and Europe are able to present multiple treatment options to their patients to achieve a better therapeutic outcome, and in many cases, no evidence of disease activity. MS patients have improved accessibility to various DMTs at no or minimal out-of-pocket cost. The ethical guidelines defined by the Edinburgh revision of the Declaration of Helsinki strongly discourage the use of placebo control groups in modern MS clinical trials. The use of an active comparator control group increases the number of participants in each group that is essential to achieve statistical significance, thus further increasing the difficulty of completing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for the development of new MS therapies. There is evidence of a high prevalence of MS and a large number of patients in Asia. The belief of the existence of Asian types of MS that are distinct from Western types, and regulatory policies are among the reasons why DMTs are limited in most Asian countries. Lack of access to approved DMTs provides a good opportunity for clinical trials that are designed for the development of new MS therapies. Recently, data from RCTs have demonstrated excellent recruitment of participants and the completion of multi-nation and single-nation MS trials within this region. Recent studies using the McDonald MS diagnostic criteria carefully excluded patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and NMO spectrum disorder, and demonstrated that patients with MS in Asia have clinical characteristics and treatment responses similar to those in Western countries.
Computer modeling of drug delivery to the posterior eye: effect of active transport and loss to choroidal blood flow.

Purpose The direct penetration route following transscleral drug administration presents several barrier and clearance mechanisms—including loss to choroidal blood flow, active transport by the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and loss to the conjunctival lymphatics and episcleral blood vessels. The objective of this research was to quantify the role of choroidal and episcleral losses.
Recovery from distal radius fracture

raises more questions than it answers—questions that are worth considering and trying toanswer.What is the optimal number and diversity of studiesonaparticularhypothesisbeforeasystematicreviewormeta-analysis is worthwhile? Is the effect of vitamin Con recovery from distal radius fracture inherentlyinteresting? Or is it only a point of discussion becauseone enthusiast inThe Netherlands performed twotrialsestablishinglevel1evidence that vitaminC lessens therisk of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
Factors Affecting the Nutritive Value of Cottonseed Meal As a Protein Source in Chick Diets

Abstract COTTONSEED meal has been used for many years in ruminant rations. Until recently, however, its use in poultry diets has been curtailed. Cottonseed meal has a number of undesirable characteristics: it contains gossypol and gossypol-like pigments and cyclopropene fatty acids, and is deficient in lysine (Phelps, 1966). Moreover, the phytin in cottonseed meal has been shown to interfere with utilization of various minerals, particularly zinc (Lease and Williams, 1967), calcium (Pensack et al, 1958; O'Dell et al., 1958) and phosphorus (Kastelic and Forbes, 1961; Taylor, 1965; Nelson, 1967). Attempts to use cottonseed meal as the sole protein supplement in chick diets usually have resulted in poor growth, poor efficiency of feed utilization and high mortality. The eggs from laying hens fed cottonseed meal may develop abnormal yolk and albumen discolorations especially when stored (Phelps, 1966). Since cottonseed meal represents the most inexpensive source of protein for poultry feeding in Peru…