cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The influences of nitric oxide, epinephrine, and dopamine on vascular tone: dose-response modeling and simulations.

Background: Sodium nitroprusside has successfully been an excellent choice when considering a decrease in systemic vascular resistance in the critical care setting. However, reflex tachycardia and ventilation-perfusion mismatch are possible side effects of this agent. To maintain cardiac output, cerebral perfusion pressure, and concurrently drop systemic vascular resistance (SVR), low-dose epinephrine or dopamine are viable options. The aim of this paper is to conduct dose-response simulations to identify the equivalent dopamine, epinephrine, and nitroprusside infusion doses to decrease the systemic vascular resistance by 20% and by 40% from baseline resting values. Methods: Three studies were identified in the literature wich reported epinephrine, dopamine, and sodium nitroprusside infusion doses with corresponding systemic vascular resistance responses. Infusion doses were normalized to mcg/kg/min and SVR values were normalized and scaled to the percent decrease (%SVR) in SVR from baseline resting values. The original published studies were mathematically modeled and the Hill equation parameters used for further dose-response simulations of a virtual population. One-hundred patients were simulated various doses resulting in corresponding %SVR responses for each of the three drugs. Results: Equivalent infusion doses achieving an approximate 20-25% decrease in SVR from baseline, were identified for epinephrine, dopamine, and sodium nitroprusside. Moreover, equivalent infusion doses were identified for epinephrine and nitroprusside to decrease the SVR by 40% from baseline. Conclusion: Even though sodium nitroprusside is traditionally used to decrease SVR, low doses of dopamine or epinephrine are viable alternatives to patients with contraindications to nitroprusside infusions or who will require prolonged infusions to avoid toxicity. The multiple comparisons procedure-modeling approach is an excellent methodology for dose-finding exercises and has enabled identification of equivalent pharmacodynamic responses for epinephrine, dopamine, and sodium nitroprusside through mathematic simulations.
Endoscope-Assisted Combined Supracerebellar Infratentorial and Endoscopic Transventricular Approach to the Pineal Region: A Technical Note.

Neoplasms of the pineal region comprise less than 2% of all intracranial lesions. A variety of techniques have been adapted to gain access to the pineal region. Classic approaches employ the use of the microscope. More recently, the endoscope has been utilized to improve access to such deep-seated lesions. A 62-year-old female presented with a heterogeneously enhancing lesion in the pineal region with associated hydrocephalus. On exam, the patient exhibited Parinaud's syndrome. The patient initially underwent a single burr hole endoscopic third ventriculostomy and biopsy of the lesion. Initial pathology was consistent with a grade III astrocytoma. Following a period of recuperation, she returned for definitive surgical resection. A suboccipital craniectomy was performed in the sitting position. Prior to dural opening, an endoscope was inserted into the right lateral ventricle through the prior burr hole.The endoscope was passed through the foramen of Monro and the tumor could be visualized along the posterior third ventricle. The patient underwent a standard supracerebellar infratentorial approach aided by the microscope. After initial debulking of the pineal lesion, an endoscope was utilized to guide the depth of resection and assist in dissection with transventricular manipulation of the tumor. During the final stages of resection from the craniotomy, the endoscope was used to help visualize the posterior supracerebellar corridor. This assisted in the assessment of the extent of resection. The endoscope was also utilized for the removal of intraventricular blood products following tumor resection. The patient was extubated and transferred to the intensive care unit. A postoperative contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed greater than 95% resection, with expected residual within the midbrain. The combined supracerebellar infratentorial and transventricular endoscope-assisted approach provided maximum visualization and aided in optimal resection of a traditionally difficult pineal region tumor. Further experience with this combined technique may allow for improved surgical outcomes for these complex lesions.
Understanding Pt Nanoparticle Anchoring on Graphene Supports through Surface Functionalization

The enhancement of Pt nanoparticle anchoring strength and dispersion on carbon supports is highly desirable in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) as well as in other catalysis processes. Presented here is a comprehensive study of the interaction between catalyst nanoparticles and carbon supports in terms of the electronic structure change and its effects on the electrocatalytic performance of supported catalysts. Graphene was chosen as an ideal model support because the unique 2-D structure allows the direct investigation of the interaction with supported metal nanoparticles at their interface. We developed a facile strategy to covalently graft p-phenyl SO3H—or p-phenyl NH2—groups onto the graphene surface. The functional groups were found to not only facilitate the homogeneous distribution of Pt nanoparticles on the surface of graphene supports and reduce the Pt average particle size but also strengthen the interaction of the Pt atoms with the functional groups and, consequently, minimize t...
Accounting for Parametric Model Uncertainty in Collision Avoidance for Unmanned Vehicles Using Sparse Grid Interpolation

In this paper we present an enhancement of model-based trajectory selection algorithms — a popular class of collision avoidance techniques for autonomous ground vehicles. Rather than dilate a set of individual candidate trajectories in an ad hoc way to account for uncertainty, we generate a set of trajectory clouds — sets of states that represent possible future poses over a product of intervals representing uncertainty in the model parameters, initial conditions and actuator commands. The clouds are generated using the sparse-grid interpolation method which is both error-controlled and computationally efficient. The approach is implemented on a differential drive vehicle.© 2013 ASME
Silica-based waste form for immobilization of iodine from reprocessing plant off-gas streams

Abstract A high selectivity and sorption capacity for iodine and a feasible consolidation to a durable SiO2-based waste form makes silver-functionalized silica aerogel (Ag0-aerogel) an attractive choice for the removal and sequestration of iodine compounds from the off-gas of a nuclear fuel reprocessing plant. Hot uniaxial pressing of iodine-loaded Ag0-aerogel (20.2 mass% iodine) at 1200 °C for 30 min under 29 MPa pressure provided a partially sintered product with residual open porosity of 16.9% that retained ∼93% of sorbed iodine. Highly iodine-loaded Ag0-aerogel was successfully consolidated by hot isostatic pressing at 1200 °C with a 30-min hold and under 207 MPa. The fully densified waste form had a bulk density of 3.3 × 103 kg/m3 and contained ∼39 mass% iodine. The iodine was retained in the form of nano- and micro-particles of AgI that were uniformly distributed inside and along boundaries of fused silica grains.
Plasma phospholipids and prevalence of mild cognitive impairment and/or dementia in the ARIC Neurocognitive Study (ARIC-NCS)

Introduction Phospholipids are altered in brains of patients with dementia and some studies suggest their plasma levels may be useful in the detection of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia.
Studies of the 3D Structure of the Nucleon at JLab

Studies of the 3D structure of the nucleon encoded in transverse momentum dependent distribution and fragmentation functions of partons and generalized parton distributions are among the key objectives of the JLab 12 GeV upgrade and the electron ion collider. Main challenges in extracting 3D partonic distributions from precision measurements of hard scattering processes include clear understanding of leading twist QCD fundamentals, higher twist effects, and also correlations of hadron production in target and current fragmentation regions. In this contribution we discuss some ongoing studies and future measurements of spin-orbit correlations at Jefferson Lab.
Visualization of the Reticuloendothelial System

Simultaneous imaging of RES marrow, spleen, and liver with the newer radiocolloids that have a short physical halflife is making it feasible to evaluate most of the elements of the reticuloendothelial system within the limits of a permissible radiation dose. Such “total” scans can be accomplished within an hour and provide important supplementary data in patients with a wide variety of hematologic disorders.
Serum progesterone predicts abnormal gestations in clomiphene citrate conception cycles as well as in spontaneous conception cycles

Objective To determine if a "discriminatory" P concentration could be established that predicted abnormal early pregnancies in clomiphene citrate (CC)-conceived cycles. Design Progesterone concentrations of gestations between 28 and 49 days from last menstrual period in both spontaneously conceived and CC-stimulated cycles were analyzed using a relative-operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Interventions Serum P concentrations were measured in 222 pregnant patients from the first 49 days of gestation. One hundred sixteen patients conceived in a spontaneous cycle and 106 patients conceived in CC-treated cycles. Two by two contingency tables were used to calculate the true-positive (sensitivity) and false-positive rates at 20 specific P concentrations. A ROC curve was then generated by plotting the sensitivity of the test against the percent of normal patients incorrectly classified (false positive) at each P level. The best discriminatory value was estimated in each curve at a point of high sensitivity associated with a minimal false-positive value. The areas under the curve and SE were calculated for each group and compared by the critical ratio z-test. Results The best discriminatory P concentration was 10 ng/mL (32 nmol/L) for spontaneously conceived pregnancies and 30 ng/mL (95 nmol/L) for CC-treated pregnancies. The area under each ROC curve was significantly predictive. Comparison of the two curves indicated that the ability of P measurements to predict gestational complications was independent of follicular stimulation. Conclusions Follicular stimulation with CC increases the discriminatory P value that predicts gestational normalcy but does not alter the clinical utility of the test.
Kinetics of order-disorder transformation of L12 FeNi3 in the Fe-Ni system

Abstract The Fe-Ni system has seen a resurgence of interest for the development of high magnetocrystalline anisotropy alloys. The kinetics of the chemical order-disorder phase transformation of the ferromagnetic test-bed compound L1 2 FeNi 3 were quantified using differential scanning calorimetry data obtained from annealed meltspun Fe-75 at% Ni ribbons. The isothermal transformation kinetics are found to be well described by the Johnson-Mehl-Avrami-Kolmogorov (JMAK) equation with a determined Avrami exponent of unity, consistent with one-dimensional growth of the chemically-disordered A1 phase from the chemically-ordered L1 2 FeNi 3 parent phase. The determined activation energy for the transformation from the chemically-ordered L1 2 structure to the disordered A1 structure in FeNi 3 , 3.1 ± 0.1 eV, is equal to that reported for the L1 0 -to-A1 order-disorder phase transformation of the FeNi phase that is found in meteoritic specimens. These results confirm that the L1 2 phase of FeNi 3 is a suitable model phase for investigation of formation aspects of the tetragonal L1 0 -type FeNi phase, also known as tetrataenite, which exhibits extremely sluggish formation kinetics but possesses appreciable magnetocrystalline anisotropy and excellent saturation magnetization that is of interest for sustainable permanent magnet applications.
Delay discounting and response disinhibition moderate associations between actigraphically measured sleep parameters and body mass index.

Summary Previous research suggests that the sleep–obesity association varies significantly across individuals. This study examined the associations between actigraphically measured sleep parameters and body mass index and hypothesized that the associations would be stronger in individuals with greater delay discounting, the devaluation of future rewards and response disinhibition and the difficulty in withholding previously rewarded responses. Seventy-eight college students carried a wrist-worn actigraph and completed diaries reporting bedtime, wake time and covariates including physical activity, alcohol and caffeine consumption, daytime nap duration and perceived stress for 7 days and completed the delay discounting and go/no-go response disinhibition tasks. Their height and weight were measured. Only bedtime variability was significantly associated with body mass index in the main effect model controlling for all covariates (B = 0.03, P = 0.001). Delay discounting moderated associations of bedtime (B = 0.03, P < 0.001), sleep duration variability (B = 0.05, P = 0.002), bedtime variability (B = 0.03, P = 0.002) and wake time variability (B = 0.02, P < 0.001) with body mass index; these associations were significant only when the delay discounting rate was high. Response disinhibition moderated the association between bedtime variability and body mass index in a similar pattern (B = 0.01, P = 0.004). The findings suggest that, using actigraphy measures of sleep, circadian desynchrony rather than sleep duration is a risk factor for higher body mass index. The findings support the hypothesis that delay discounting and response disinhibition moderate the associations between sleep and body mass index. Delay discounting and response disinhibition might characterize individuals who are vulnerable to the influence of circadian desynchrony on weight.
Ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation of alkali–silica reaction damage in concrete prism samples

This paper presents a study that used ultrasonic techniques to nondestructively evaluate (NDE) the damage induced by alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in concrete. The study was conducted on concrete prism samples that contained reactive aggregates and were subjected to different ASR conditioning. The ultrasonic NDE techniques used in the study included measuring wave speed, attenuation and the amplitude of mixed wave in order to accurately calculate the acoustic nonlinearity parameter. Results of the study show that ASR damage reduces wave speed and increases the wave attenuation in concrete. However, neither wave speed nor attenuation is sensitive enough to ASR damage to be considered a good measure for the quantitative NDE of ASR damage in concrete. The acoustic nonlinearity parameter, on the other hand, shows a greater sensitivity to ASR damage, and can thus be used to nondestructively track ASR damage in concrete. However, due to the significant attenuation caused by ASR induced microcracks and scattering by the aggregates, attenuation measurements also need to be conducted in order to accurately measure the acoustic nonlinearity parameter. Finally, destructive tests were conducted to measure the compressive strength of the concrete prisms subjected to different ASR conditioning. It is found that the measured acoustic nonlinearity parameter is well-correlated with the reduction of the compressive strength induced by ASR damage.
History of Consciousness Science

For most of written history the human mind was described as entirely conscious and (ideally) under rational control. As scientific studies arose with Renaissance explorations into color perception, the eye as a lens, visual perspective, the physics of locomotion, and accurate brain anatomy, a great intellectual tension arose between ‘mentalistic’ (consciousness-based) and ‘physicalistic’ views. The field of psychology was defined as the exclusive study of consciousness as late as William James' Principles of Psychology of 1890, which summarized an extraordinary century of discoveries about hypnosis, dissociative states, sensory psychophysics, associative learning, brain anatomy, aphasias, and much more. Nevertheless, James refused to admit unconscious cognitive processes, explaining such things as over-practiced habits as a ‘carving’ of conscious contents into ‘physiological river channels’ in the brain. Thus the process of acquiring automatic habits appeared to jump across the mind–body divide. James was unhappy with this awkward dualism, but could find no stable solution. Toward the end of the nineteenth century physicalistic reductionism took over in biology and psychology, resulting in a widespread purge of some of the most valuable discoveries of the past. Behaviorism was one variety of physicalism, and some radicals, like John B. Watson, refused to admit the reality of conscious experiences at all. Scientists today have rediscovered many of the fundamental questions raised by conscious and unconscious events, largely by sidestepping mind–body debates and leaving them to philosophy. The result has been an extraordinary wave of rediscovery about consciousness and its sister problems, aided by cognitive and brain imaging techniques. Conscious experiences are generally treated as inferred constructs based on reliable reports; unconscious events are also inferred, but lack reportability. Thus the regularities of linguistic grammars are not conscious, but may be quite complex and ‘intelligent.’ This working definition is useful for studying conscious and unconscious aspects of perception, cognition, learning and memory, volition and motor control, emotion, self and personality, a great variety of brain disorders, language, and much more. The construct of consciousness can be treated as an experimental variable, much like any other scientific variable. Whether one takes a consciousness-based or publically based point of view seems to be of secondary importance. Metaphysical debates about mind versus body have faded into the background, while numerous empirical questions are being addressed with marked success.
Tolerance Against Global Cerebral Ischemia: Experimental Strategies, Mechanisms, and Clinical Applications

Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) refers to the ability of a sublethal ischemic insult to increase an organ’s resistance to a subsequent ischemic attack, which would otherwise have been lethal. The focus of this chapter is to provide a comprehensive review of the literature on IPC in animal models of global cerebral ischemia. Major mechanisms of ischemia tolerance and the clinical importance of IPC mimetics and adaptations in animals that tolerate ischemia/hypoxia are further emphasized.
Host community perspectives on trainees participating in short-term experiences in global health.

Context High-income country (HIC) trainees are undertaking global health experiences in low- and middle-income country (LMIC) host communities in increasing numbers. Although the benefits for HIC trainees are well described, the benefits and drawbacks for LMIC host communities are not well captured. Objectives This study evaluated the perspectives of supervising physicians and local programme coordinators from LMIC host communities who engaged with HIC trainees in the context of the latter's short-term experiences in global health. Methods Thirty-five semi-structured interviews were conducted with LMIC host community collaborators with a US-based, non-profit global health education organisation. Interviews took place in La Paz, Bolivia and New Delhi, India. Interview transcripts were assessed for recurrent themes using thematic analysis. Results Benefits for hosts included improvements in job satisfaction, local prestige, global connectedness, local networks, leadership skills, resources and sense of efficacy within their communities. Host collaborators called for improvements in HIC trainee attitudes and behaviours, and asked that trainees not make promises they would not fulfil. Findings also provided evidence of a desire for parity between the opportunities afforded to US-based staff and those available to LMIC-based partners. Conclusions This study provides important insights into the perspectives of LMIC host community members in the context of short-term experiences in global health for HIC trainees. We hope to inform the behaviour of HIC trainees and institutions with regard to international partnerships and global health activities.
Incorporation of a Graduate Student Writer into a Productive Research Team.

Author(s): Fischer, Jonathan P; House, Joseph B; Hopson, Laura R; Perry, Marcia A; Theyyuni, Nikhil; Wolff, Margaret S; Sozener, Cemal B; Santen, Sally A
Abstract 418: Mineralocorticoid Receptor in Nucleus of the Solitary Tract Contributes to Aldosterone Stimulation of Salt Intake

A group of neurons in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) contains the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) which makes these neurons candidates for stimulating salt intake in response to aldosterone. The purpose of this study was to determine if neurons within the NTS that possess the MR play a role in aldosterone stimulation of salt intake. Five adult WKY rats received microinjections into the NTS of a small, hairpin RNA (shRNA) for the MR (Genedetect, Inc.) and 5 rats received NTS injections of a scrambled RNA (scRNA). In each rat injections of viral constructs were made at 3 points, all 0.5mm below the surface of the brain: calamus; bilaterally at 0.5mm rostral to calamus and 0.5mm lateral to the midline. One week after the viral construct injections, aldosterone-filled osmotic mini-pumps were implanted subcutaneously and connected to tubing within the 4th ventricle to infuse aldosterone at a rate of 20ng/h. Prior to and after surgeries, rats had ad libitum access to food and two graduated drinking bottles filled with distilled water and 0.3M NaCl respectively. Fluid level within each bottle was measured at the same time every day and salt intake expressed as 100 X the ratio of 0.3M NaCl intake to total fluid intake. Previous studies indicate that the viral constructs require 2 weeks to have a discernible effect. One week after injection of the viral constructs and prior to infusion of implantation of the aldosterone mini-pump, salt intake in shRNA injected rats was 6% ± 3% and in scRNA injected rats it was 4% ± 2%. One week after beginning aldosterone infusion (two weeks after injection of viral constructs), salt intake in shRNA injected rats was 16% ± 5% and in scRNA injected rats it was 22% ± 7% (p=0.01). Three weeks after beginning aldosterone infusion, salt intake in shRNA injected rats was 5% ± 2% and in scRNA injected rats it was 14% ± 9% (p=0.01). Post-mortem immunohistochemistry revealed a significant reduction in the number of NTS neurons exhibiting immunoreactivity for the MR (shRNA 2 ± 2 cells/section; scRNA 12 ± 2 cells/section; p=.008). These results indicate hindbrain infusions of aldosterone stimulate salt intake and that at least part of the hindbrain aldosterone stimulation of salt intake are mediated by hindbrain NTS neurons that possess the MR.
Serotonergic Mechanisms in Myoclonus

Post-hypoxic intention myoclonus is a specific myoclonic syndrome in which central serotonergic tone may be deficient. Tryptophan and 5-hydroxytryptophan administration to patients with post-hypoxic intention myoclonus increases pre-existing low levels of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid levels in the cerebrospinal fluid, and also suppresses myoclonus. Serotonin precursor administration does not help all patients with myoclonus and may actually worsen some myoclonic syndromes, including those secondary to lipid storage diseases. Treatments that alter serotonin metabolism can also produce myoclonus in experimental animals but their relevance to myoclonic syndromes in humans remains uncertain.
Dynamic Regression for Partial Correlation and Causality Analysis of Functional Brain Networks

We propose a general dynamic regression framework for partial correlation and causality analysis of functional brain networks. Using the optimal prediction theory, we present the solution of the dynamic regression problem by minimizing the entropy of the associated stochastic process. We also provide the relation between the solutions and the linear dependence models of Geweke and Granger and derive novel expressions for computing partial correlation and causality using an optimal prediction filter with minimum error variance. We use the proposed dynamic framework to study the intrinsic partial correlation and causality between seven different brain networks using resting state functional MRI (rsfMRI) data from the Human Connectome Project (HCP) and compare our results with those obtained from standard correlation and causality measures. The results show that our optimal prediction filter explains a significant portion of the variance in the rsfMRI data at low frequencies, unlike standard partial correlation analysis.
A Holistic Approach to Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention.

An editorial presented which discusses the issue of teenage pregnancy prevention programs. It mentions the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention (APP) Program which teaches and supports healthy sexual choices, the individual programs APP supports, and the need to promote such programs and disseminate the successes.
Resiliency and posttraumatic stress symptoms in firefighter paramedics: The mediating role of depression, anxiety, and sleep.

Firefighter paramedics are frequently exposed to dangerous and stressful situations due to their occupational duties. Repeated exposure to traumatic events can take a cumulative toll on an individual’s physical and mental health and potentially lead to a diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder. A
A lively, if sprawling, history of the atomic era

Craig Nelson, the author of this unflaggingly engrossing book, comes from an impressive background in publishing, having been vice president and executive editor of Harper and Row, Hyperion, and Random House. In this respect, he reminds me of the better known Walter Isaacson, who was managing editor of Time magazine before turning his attention to writing biographies of Einstein, Steve Jobs, and Ben Franklin, and, most recently, a collective biography of the pioneers of the digital revolution. Although I reach this conclusion on the basis of having read only one book by each, I would say that Isaacson’s oeuvre is more scholarly, Nelson’s more journalistic. A review in the New York Times of Nelson’s bestseller Rocket Men informs would-be readers that while the book ‘‘lacks the shapeliness and authority of some earlier lunar histories,...it ends up making an engaging contribution.’’ Comparing The Age of Radiance to the many similar histories of radioactivity and the making of the bomb that I have read (several of which I have reviewed over the past decade for Metascience, along with biographies of some of the scientists profiled in Nelson’s book), I could say much the same thing. The canvas Nelson paints is sprawling, and, in covering so much ground, the author occasionally, if only briefly, appears to lose focus. His breezy style may also undermine his authoritativeness for some readers. As a biographer of Marie Curie, I was initially taken aback at the end of Chapter 1 by Nelson’s calling her ‘‘one hell of a broad.’’ But I soon became accustomed to his modus operandi, and I not only enjoyed reading the book but also learned many interesting facts from it (albeit some more important than others). Although Nelson divides the book into four parts, the first two comprise a slightly longer (and to me more interesting) section, taking us from the discovery of X-rays to the development of the atomic bomb and the detonations of Little Man and Fat Boy over Japan. The slightly shorter but more rambling Parts Three and Four focus
Di- and triindolylmethanes: molecular structures and spectroscopic characterization of potentially bidentate and tridentate ligands

4-Bromophenyldi(3-methylindol-2-yl)methane (2) and 2-methoxyphenyldi(3-methylindol-2-yl)methane (3) were prepared by sulfuric-acid-catalyzed reactions of 3-methylindole with 4-bromobenzaldehyde and o-anisaldehyde, respectively. Di(3-methylindol-2-yl)phenylmethane (1) and tri(3-methylindol-2-yl)methane (4) were similarly prepared as described previously. Spectroscopic data (1H, 13C NMR) and the X-ray crystal structures for 1 ⋅C2H5OH and 2–4 are reported. The molecular structure of 1 ⋅C2H5OH shows hydrogen bonding of both indolyl NH protons to the oxygen of an ethanol molecule. Crystal data for 1 ⋅C2H5OH: Orthorhombic, Pca21, a = 23.9782(17) A, b = 8.4437(7) A, c = 11.3029(9) A, V = 2288.4(3) A3, R 1 = 0.0597. Crystal data for 2: Orthorhombic, P212121, a = 8.911(3) A, b = 9.584(4) A, c = 24.040(11) A, V = 2053.0(14) A3, R 1 = 0.0454. Crystal data for 3: Monoclinic, P21/c, a = 9.737(2) A, b = 25.035(6) A, c = 9.359(2) A, β = 114.853(4)○, V = 2070.2(8) A3, R 1 = 0.0511. Crystal data for 4: Trigonal, R3, a = 14.2214(10) A, c = 9.6190(10) A, V = 1684.8(2) A3, R 1 = 0.0425.
Neutrophils, Cytokines, Oxygen Radicals, and Lung Injury

Acute lung injury is a common feature of the adult respiratory distress syndrome in which there is cellular injury involving both pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells and alveolar epithelial cells. In an attempt to define in greater detail the pathophysiological events that underlie the development of acute lung injury, we have employed the rat model of acute lung injury following intraalveolar deposition of immunoglobulin G (IgG) immune complexes. In this model, injury involves both microvascular endothelial cells as well as alveolar epithelial cells in a manner that is complement dependent, neutrophil dependent, and related to the formation of toxic oxygen species, inasmuch as interventions involving catalase, superoxide dismutase, and scavengers of HO· are all protective [1–3]. It is now becoming evident that products of both neutrophils and lung macrophages are involved in the processes leading to injury.
Effects of Reading Curriculum-Based Measurement (R-CBM) Teacher Feedback in General Education Classrooms.

This study examined the effects of teacher feedback from Reading Curriculum-Based Measurement (R-CBM) progress results for low-performing students in general education classrooms. Participants incl...
FDA Supplemental Approval: Blinatumomab for Treatment of Relapsed and Refractory Precursor B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

On July 11, 2017, the Food and Drug Administration granted approval for blinatumomab for the treatment of relapsed or refractory (R/R) precursor B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Blinatumomab is a bispecific CD19-directed CD3 T-cell engager. The basis for the approval included results from two clinical trials, TOWER and ALCANTARA. TOWER, a randomized trial comparing overall survival in patients with Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)-negative R/R ALL receiving blinatumomab versus standard-of-care (SOC) chemotherapy, demonstrated a hazard ratio of 0.71 favoring blinatumomab (p = .012; median survival, 7.7 months with blinatumomab and 4.0 months with SOC chemotherapy). Complete remission (CR) rates were 34% for patients receiving blinatumomab and 16% for those receiving SOC. Adverse events were consistent with those observed in prior trials, with cytokine release syndrome and some neurologic events, including tremor, encephalopathy, peripheral neuropathy, and depression, observed more frequently in the blinatumomab arm, whereas neutropenia and infection were less common among patients receiving blinatumomab. Depression emerged as a rare but potentially severe neurologic event associated with blinatumomab. In ALCANTARA, a single-arm trial of blinatumomab in patients with Ph-positive R/R ALL, the CR rate was 31%, and adverse events were similar to those observed previously in Ph-negative R/R ALL. These results support conversion from accelerated to regular approval of blinatumomab for R/R ALL and broadening of the intended population to include both Ph-positive and Ph-negative precursor B-cell R/R ALL. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: In TOWER, a randomized trial in patients with relapsed or refractory Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)-negative precursor B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), treatment with blinatumomab showed superiority over conventional chemotherapy for complete remission (CR) rate (34% vs. 16%) and survival (3.7-month improvement in median; hazard ratio, 0.71). In ALCANTARA, a single-arm trial of blinatumomab for treatment of relapsed or refractory Ph-positive precursor B-cell ALL, the CR rate was 31%. Blinatumomab is now approved for treatment of relapsed or refractory precursor B-cell ALL that is Ph positive or Ph negative.
Measurement and Simulation of On-Chip Supply Noise Induced by System-Level ESD

On-chip supply noise induced by power-on ESD is studied with the aid of on-chip monitor circuits and circuit simulation. The monitor circuits’ outputs provide information about the magnitudes of the ESD-induced supply noise. The supply noise monitor circuits were implemented on a 130-nm CMOS test chip. Voltage monitor circuits record the maximum and minimum supply voltage excursions. Flip-flop monitor circuits respond to a rapid voltage change at the supply. Circuit simulation is used to validate hypotheses about how the noise spreads throughout the power delivery network.
The association between volumetric breast density and breast cancer subtypes among women newly diagnosed with breast cancer.

e13115Background: Increased breast density is a strong risk factor for breast cancer, women with high breast density have a four to six-fold increased risk of breast cancer compared to those with l...
Important twentieth century American Husserl scholars

This list introduces the leading researchers and scholars in North America who became widely recognized for significant contributions to Edmund Husserl scholarship in the 20th century. As a historical list, it also does not include several outstanding younger scholars who have emerged in the twenty-first century.
Team Communication on Tasks Performed in Blood Pressure Clinics in Community Pharmacies

Background: To successfully deliver pharmacy services, pharmacists and technicians need to work as a team and have effective communication. Objectives: To measure the amount of communication betwee...
Raise your voice

Children's musical experience begins very early in their life, from hearing their mother's singing in the womb to spontaneous singing as they play. This is the first in a series of articles providi...
Transcranial Blood-Brain Barrier Opening and Power Cavitation Imaging Using a Diagnostic Imaging Array

Typically, focused ultrasound (FUS)- mediated blood-brain barrier (BBB) opening requires multiple components that include the therapeutic transducer itself and a separate monitoring technique. Combining the therapeutic transducer and monitoring technique into a single transducer has yet to be shown. In this study, we investigated the use a single diagnostic array for both FUS-mediated BBB opening and cavitation monitoring. Our phantom experiments confirm that using a standard diagnostic transducer, power cavitation images were able to be acquired during focus transmits. These power cavitation images were able to estimate the size of the focus in the imaging plane, which match well with the measurements taken with a hydrophone. Furthermore, in vivo experiments in mice and non-human primates were performed, with successful transcranial BBB opening and cavitation monitoring in both animal models. BBB opening were confirmed using contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging, which correlated well with the corresponding power cavitation maps showing high cavitation activity.
Thermodynamic Properties of Hydroxylammonium Nitrate-Based Electric Solid Propellant Plasma

Electric solid propellants are advanced solid chemical rocket propellants controlled by electric current. An electric solid propellant may also be used in an electric propulsion system: specificall...
Postoperative Outcomes of Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Undergoing Cardiac Surgery.

Background Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with increased risk of postoperative complications in noncardiac surgery, with limited literature on cardiac surgical patients. Perioperative outcomes of patients with OSA were compared with outcomes of those without OSA undergoing cardiac surgery. Methods This was a retrospective single-center cohort study of adults who underwent cardiac surgery from January 2010 to April 2017. Outcomes of patients with OSA were compared with those without OSA, including length of stay, readmissions, hospital death, and short-term outcomes. Results OSA was present in 2636 of 8612 patients (30.6%) identified during the study period with OSA. Patients with OSA had a longer median length of stay (6 vs 5 days, P 7 days) length of stay (26.3% vs 23.0%, P 75 years; odds ratio, 4.10; 95% confidence interval, 3.39-4.96). Conclusions OSA patients had a longer mean length of stay, were more likely to have a prolonged length of stay, more likely to be discharged to a location other than home, and had a higher 30-day readmission rate. This suggests higher resource utilization is required to care for OSA patients after cardiac surgery.
Abstract P459: Milk Intake, Host LCT Genotype and Gut Bifidobacteria in Relation to Obesity: Results From the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL)

Background: Previous studies in Europeans found that gut Bifidobacterium genus was elevated in lactose intolerant individuals. However, the interrelationship between milk intake, host lactase (LCT)...
Testicular Adrenal Rest Tumour (TART) or Testicular Malignancy: A Clinical Dilemma.

Testicular adrenal rest tumour (TART) is a known entity in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. An adult patient presenting with testicular enlargement raises a concern for malignancy and this creates a diagnostic dilemma between non-malignant conditions such as TART versus testicular malignancy. We describe a case where the patient underwent orchiectomy due to clinical concern for malignancy but, retrospectively, this outcome could have been prevented by medical treatment. This case emphasises the need to learn from errors. There is a need to increase awareness of the condition among medical professionals to reduce the chances of unnecessary surgical intervention. Learning points To recognize testicular adrenal rest tumour (TART) as cause of testicular enlargement in adult patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia.To differentiate TART from other types of testicular malignancy.Consider medical treatment with exogenous glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid replacement to prevent unnecessary surgical intervention.
Alternative to AHP approach to criteria weight estimation in highway bridge management

Criteria weights formulation is the most essential component of a multi-criteria prioritization scheme. The research reported in this paper sought to critically compare a recently developed multi-c...
Adsorption and Reaction of Trimethyl and Triethyl Phosphite on Fe3O4 by Density Functional Theory

First-principle density functional theory (DFT) calculations are used to calculate the most stable structures and heats of adsorption of trimethyl and triethyl phosphites on an Fe3O4 surface in order to understand their behavior as lubricant additives. Previous surface science studies of phosphate and phosphite esters on iron oxide surface have shown that they react by sequentially desorbing the corresponding alcohol and aldehyde in equimolar amounts. This implies that the reactions are limited by the rate of alkoxide removal, followed by a rapid reaction to form the alcohol and aldehyde. It is found that the trialkyl phosphites, dialkyl phosphite, and monoalkyl phosphite all adsorb with the phosphorus atoms bound to surface Fe3+ ions, with the alkoxy groups close to parallel to the surface. The heat of adsorption increases as the alkoxide groups are removed. The postulate that the rate-limiting step in the decomposition of the phosphate esters is the sequential removal of the alkoxide group is tested by plotting the experimental activation energy obtained from temperature-programed desorption experiments versus the corresponding heats of adsorption calculated by DFT. A linear dependence shows that the reaction obeys the so-called Evans–Polanyi relation, thereby confirming the above postulate. The slope of the plot is close to unity and thus implies that the structure of the transition state of the reaction resembles the product.
An adolescent English learner's expression of self and identity through multiliteracy practices

This qualitative case study explores an adolescent English learner’s (EL’s) expression of self and identity through multiliteracy practices on paper from an ecological perspective. The study follow...
The non-redundant nature of the Axin2 regulatory network in the canonical Wnt signaling pathway

Axin is one of two essential scaffolds in the canonical Wnt pathway that converts signals at the plasma membrane to signals inhibiting the degradation of {beta}-catenin, leading to its accumulation and specific gene activation. In vertebrates there are two forms of Axin, Axin1 and Axin2, which are similar at the protein level and genetically redundant. We show here that differential regulation of the two genes on the transcriptional and proteostatic level confers robustness and differential responsiveness that can be used in tissue specific regulation. Such subtle features may distinguish other redundant gene pairs that are commonly found in vertebrates through gene knockout experiments. Significance StatementThe mystery of two functionally redundant Axin genes in all vertebrates are can now be explained by the demonstration that they form a nested proteostatic and transcriptional feedback system that confers regulatory options in different developmental settings, a form of dynamic versatility that may explain the widespread occurrence of closely related seemingly redundant genes with similar functions.
Supernova 1987A: The Birth of a Supernova Remnant

I describe and interpret observations of the rapidly developing impact of the debris of SN1987A with its circumstellar ring.
The Causes and Consequences of Industry Self-Policing

Innovative regulatory programs are encouraging firms to police their own regulatory compliance and voluntarily disclose, or confess, the violations they find. Despite the win-win rhetoric surrounding these government voluntary programs, it is not clear why companies would participate and whether the programs themselves do anything to enhance regulatory effectiveness. Tasked with monitoring the legality of its own operations, why would a firm that identifies violations turn itself in to regulators rather than quietly fix the problem? And why would regulators entrust regulated entities to monitor their own compliance and enforce the law against themselves? This paper addresses these questions by investigating the factors that lead organizations to self-disclose violations, the effects of self-policing on regulatory compliance, and the effects of self-disclosing on the relationship between regulators and regulated firms. We investigate these research questions in the context of the US Environmental Protection Agency's Audit Policy.
Endemic sturgeons of the Amur River: kaluga, Huso dauricus, and Amur sturgeon, Acipenser schrenckii

General biological characteristics and the contemporary status of the kaluga, Huso dauricus, and Amur sturgeon, Acipenser schrenekii, are described. Both inhabit the Amur River basin. Kaluga is the largest freshwater fish in this river system reaching inore than 5.6 m in length and inore than 1000 kg in weight. We recognize four populations of kaluga: the first is from the estuary of the Amur River and coastal brackish waters of the Sea of Okhotsk and Sea of Japan. the second is from the lower Amur River, the third is from the middle-Amur. and the fourth occurs in lower reaches of the Zeya and Bureya rivers. Freshwater and brackish water morphs exist in the estuary population, with the freshwater morph predominating in number. The number of individuals in the lower Amur River population at age 2 or greater was recently estimated to be 40 000, and in the middle Amur, 30 000. The population will continue to decline because of rampant overfishing. The Amur sturgeon is represented in the Amur River basin by two morphs: brown and gray. Brown morphs occur in the middle and lower partsof the Amur River: they grow more slowly than the gray ones, Today, the lower Amur River population of Amur sturgeon is made up of 95 000 fish at age 2 or greater and is approximately half as large as the population in the middle Amur River. Populations of kaluga and Amur sturgeon in the Zeya and Bureya rivers are extremely small and on the verge of extinction.
The chain suture in operative gynecology

Abstract 1. 1. The step-by-step development of the new chain suture is outlined, and the technical details described and illustrated. 2. 2. The superiority of the chain suture over the clamp technique is discussed. 3. 3. The chain-suture technique for the salpingectomy, salpingo-oophorectomy, and appendectomy is demonstrated. 4. 4. The technique of the total hysterectomy is presented in detail, and the combination of the chain suture with the new safety suture is shown. 5. 5. The technique of performance with a single suture is presented: (a) the ligation of the parametrium, (b) the angle stitch, (c) the hemostasis of the vaginal cuff, (d) the safety suture, and (e) the peritonization of the parametrial stumps.
Substitutes for the Doctrine of Equivalents: A Response to Meurer and Nard

The doctrine of equivalents is under attack - by the Federal Circuit, which has in recent years significantly constrained its application through the introduction of more aggressive estoppel and public disclosure rules; and by patent law scholars, who with increasing regularity urge that the doctrine be pared down or even fully repealed. This short Essay is framed as a response to one particular scholarly commentary, but it is in fact an attempt to state more broadly the case in favor of the doctrine of equivalents. My argument is that the doctrine serves three significant goals: it ensures that patent protection remains viable despite the limitations of language and foresight; it discourages wasteful efforts to perfect claim language; and, most importantly, it empowers the patent system to make better decisions by bringing into the process information that is systematically unavailable at the time when literal patent claims are written. No other patent system mechanism accomplishes these three objectives as completely. Thus, while I survey alternative approaches to claim articulation (what I describe in the title as substitutes for the doctrine of equivalents), my argument at its core is that the doctrine of equivalents has no substitutes. Not the reissue proceeding. Not the use of continuation applications. And certainly not more aggressive attempts at literal claim drafting.
Reply to Kim’s “Two Versions of Sleeping Beauty”

I begin by discussing a conundrum that arises when Bayesian models attempt to assess the relevance of one claim to another. I then explain how my formal modeling framework (the “Certainty Loss Framework”) manages this conundrum. Finally, I apply my modeling methodology to respond to Namjoong Kim’s objection to my framework.