cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sleep and food intake

Abstract Short sleep duration is of growing public health concern due to increasing evidence that it leads to weight gain and obesity. Much of the evidence presented in this chapter lends support to the hypothesis that short sleep duration increases food intake via both homeostatic and hedonic mechanisms. But bi-directionality in the relation between sleep and food intake has been established, implicating diet quality, quantity, and/or timing as underlying factors in the regulation of sleep duration and/or quality. The effect of food intake on sleep is of practical interest in that preventive solutions to short sleep duration, poor sleep quality, and disordered sleep are becoming increasingly relevant in a population with decreasing average sleep duration.
The operational butterfly effect: How IoT data + AI help deliver on the promise of 4IR

The challenges in industrial settings have remained the same for the last 50 years. Operations leaders are being asked to deliver more across KPIs—such as throughput, costs, efficiency, quality, and sustainability—and asked to deliver incremental improvement every year.The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) has brought much promise: more sensors, more connectivity, more data, better controls, more tools and methods to make sense of the data, and a greater understanding of consequences. But for all its promise, results have been stubbornly slow. Assets are increasingly complex, inter-dependencies are difficult to understand and real-time externalities are impacting these systems--often with unforeseen consequences.The confluence of AI and advanced analytics, however, can get business leaders the transformational results they desire. These technologies can break through data silos and analyze your operations holistically to provide deeper insights that humans and advanced controls can act on. And it can all happen in real-time. AI and advanced Analytics can help you better visualize the butterfly effect, understand how decisions about maintenance of one asset will impact another, and help business leaders to obtain the agility their businesses so desperately need.
Comparison of Routing Algorithms With Static and Dynamic Link Cost in Software Defined Networking (SDN)

In this paper, we compared the existing routing algorithms in the context of Software Defined Networking (SDN), where a logically centralized controller acquires the global view of the network, selects the paths using a routing algorithm, and installs the determined routing rules to the switches. We divided existing routing algorithms (RA) into three categories: RA with static link cost (RA-SLC), RA with dynamic link cost (RA-DLC), and RA with dynamic link cost and minimum interference (RA-DLCMI). We then implemented various routing algorithms from each category using RYU SDN controller and compared their performances on Mininet emulator. For the network state information (NSI) needed for the routing algorithms, we first consider the idealistic case where the accurate NSI is available, as assumed in the literature. However, since this is not possible in practice, we also considered the practical case where the controller periodically collects the NSI with some inaccuracy. In our experiments, we observed that while RA-DLC and RA-DLCMI give similar performance, RA-SLC falls behind of RA-DLC and RA-DLCMI in the number of accepted flows and total throughput. We also showed that the performance of every algorithm is adversely affected from the inaccuracy of NSI, calling for further research on developing effective NSI collection methods.
A Multidisciplinary Patient-Specific Opioid Prescribing and Tapering Protocol Is Associated with a Decrease in Total Opioid Dose Prescribed for Six Weeks After Total Hip Arthroplasty.

Objective This retrospective cohort study tested the hypothesis that implementing a multidisciplinary patient-specific discharge protocol for prescribing and tapering opioids after total hip arthroplasty (THA) will decrease the morphine milligram equivalent (MME) dose of opioids prescribed. Methods With institutional review board approval, we analyzed a Perioperative Surgical Home database and prescription data for all primary THA patients three months before (PRE) and three months after (POST) implementation of this new discharge opioid protocol based on patients' prior 24-hour inpatient opioid consumption. The primary outcome was total opioid dosage in MME prescribed and opioid refills for six weeks after surgery. Secondary outcomes included the number of tablets and MME prescribed at discharge, in-hospital opioid consumption, length of stay, and postoperative complications. Results Forty-nine cases (25 PRE and 24 POST) were included. Total median (10th-90th percentiles) MME for six weeks postoperatively was 900 (57-2082) MME PRE vs 295 (69-741) MME POST (mean difference = 721, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 127-1316, P = 0.007, Mann-Whitney U test). Refill rates did not differ. The median (10th-90th percentiles) initial discharge prescription in MME was 675 (57-1035) PRE vs 180 (18-534) POST (mean difference = 387, 95% CI = 156-618, P = 0.003, Mann-Whitney U test) MME. There were no differences in other outcomes. Conclusions Implementation of a patient-specific prescribing and tapering protocol decreases the mean six-week dosage of opioid prescribed by 63% after THA without increasing the refill rate.
Lipid-functionalized porous oxide nanoparticles for acoustic imaging and site-directed therapy

While most US contrast agents are fluid-filled micro- or nanoparticles, their stability of fluid-filled particles is limited by inherent Laplace pressure and equilibrium with the surroundings. Here, I will present our work designing silica nanoparticles of ∼100 nm with specifically tailored surfaces that can nucleate the formation of ultrasound-responsive microbubbles under reduced acoustic pressures. I will discuss the underlying materials science behind their activity, the effects of chemical functionalization on acoustic contrast (with the potential for stimulus-responsiveness), and applications in imaging and directed mechanical cell killing.
Computational Visualization for Critical Thinking

This paper looks back at historical precedents for how computational systems and ideas have been visualized as a means of access to and engagement with a broader audience, and to develop a new more tangible language to address abstraction. These precedents share a subversive ground in using a visual language to provoke new ways of engaging with about complex ideas. Two new approaches to visualizing algorithmic systems are proposed for the emerging context of algorithmic ethics in society, looking at prototypical algorithms in computer vision and machine learning systems, to think through the meaning created by algorithmic structure and process. The aim is to use visual design to provoke new kinds of thinking and criticality that can offer opportunities to address algorithms in their increasingly more politicized role today. These new approaches are developed from an arts research perspective to support critical thinking and arts knowledge through creative coding and interactive design.
A literature review and meta-analysis on the effects of ADHD medications on functional outcomes.

Abstract Objective To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of literature from large databases and registries to assess the effects of ADHD medication on associated functional outcomes. Study design A literature search was performed in PubMed, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and Web of Science for articles published prior to January 2019. Sample size, age range, country of origin, medication type, number of functional events and non-events, odds ratios and hazard ratios, and means and standard deviations were extracted. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted for 21 studies examining functional outcomes. Results 40 articles were included. The majority suggest a robust protective effect of ADHD medication treatment on mood disorders, suicidality, criminality, substance use disorders, accidents and injuries, traumatic brain injuries, motor vehicle crashes, and educational outcomes. Similarly, the meta-analyses demonstrated a protective effect of medication treatment on academic outcomes, accidents and injuries, and mood disorders. Conclusions These findings suggest that ADHD medication treatments are associated with decreases in the risks for a wide range of ADHD-associated functional outcomes supporting efforts aimed at early diagnosis and treatment of individuals with ADHD.
Mortgage, Treasury, CD and Fed Funds Rates Spreads and Risk Premiums: How do They Impact Net Interest Margins?

This paper utilized FRED (Federal Reserve Economic Data) data from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis to examine historical risk premiums between 30-year mortgages and 30-year T-Bonds and spreads between yields on these two assets and funding costs represented by 6-month CD rates and fed funds rates. Risk premiums were greatest and spreads were smallest (some-times negative) during the high interest rate environment during the late 1970’s and early 1980’s. Risk premiums got smaller after the two financial crises of the 2000’s (the September 11, 2001 attack and the 2008 mortgage crisis) and the spreads became larger after both when the Federal Reserve cut rates tremendously. Despite these variations in income/cost spreads, net interest margins (to both total assets and earning assets) remained relatively stable. Regression analysis shows the best predictor of historical net interest margins was the 30-year treasury yield in lagged and non-lagged models. These results suggest the ability of banks to choose fund sources and fund uses allows them to reduce variation in net interest margins even while interest rates are volatile.
136 – Venous Angiomas

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the venous angiomas. Cerebral venous malformations are congenital vascular anomalies that may be located throughout the brain. The lesion consists of a radial array of medullary veins that converge into an enlarged transcerebral draining venous trunk. The venous trunk may continue to the cortical surface and drain into a dural sinus, or may connect with the deep venous system. Venous angiomas have been associated with intracerebral hemorrhage, focal neurological deficits, seizures, and headaches. They have also frequently been found as purely incidental lesions in patients with other intracranial pathology. In the vast majority of cases, venous angiomas should be treated conservatively. Associated headaches or seizures can almost always be controlled medically. In the rare reported cases in which a venous angioma has been resected for the treatment of chronic intractable headaches, there has been little symptomatic relief. If a large hemorrhage has occurred in association with a venous angioma, surgical evacuation of the clot may be necessary for decompression.
Lady and the Vamp: Roles, Sexualization, and Brutalization of Women in Slasher Films

Slasher films are known for their graphic depictions of sex, brutalization and death. Many argue that these films sexualize and punish female characters. A content analysis of 48 influential slasher films from the 1960s to 2010s was conducted to evaluate the presentation of women in these films. Sexualization (measured via specific acts and total sexualization), strength, flaws, brutalization, and fate were coded for 252 female characters. Results indicate that purity was significantly related to lower brutalization and lower rates of death for all women. Within each role (hero, killer, and potential/actual victim), unique portrayals of sexuality and related repercussions emerge. Female killers were most commonly portrayed having sex, heroes were most sexually dressed, and actual/potential victims were brutalized and killed most for their sexualization. These messages reinforce ideas of gender roles, stereotypes, and relationship expectations by punishing female sexualization and demonizing female sex. Issues of violence against women, toxic masculinity, rape culture, and the normalization of combining violence and sex are discussed as significant concerns.
Endovascular Aortic Repair (EVAR and TEVAR)

Endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) and thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) are minimally invasive modalities for the treatment of aneurysms, dissections, penetrating ulcers, and traumatic aortic injury. Aortic stent grafts can be used to exclude an aneurysm sac, encourage thrombosis of a false lumen, cover an entry tear or penetrating ulcer, or seal a transection.
Your Money or Your Life

64(4): 395-404. Fairbanks, Jenilee, Kenneth D. Plowman, and Brad L. Rawlins. 2007. Transparency in Government Communication. Journal of Public Affairs 7(1): 23-37. Florini, Ann, ed. 2007. The Right to Know: Transparency for an Open World. New York: Columbia University Press. Hood, Christopher, and David Heald, eds. 2006. Transparency: The Key to Better Governance. New York: Oxford University Press. Madison, James. 1999. Letter to William T. Barry,
Giant chondrosarcoma of the falx in an adolescent: A case report

Background Intracranial chondrosarcomas are slowly growing malignant cartilaginous tumors that are especially rare in adolescents. Case Description A 19-year-old woman with no medical history presented with symptoms of intermittent facial twitching and progressive generalized weakness for 6 months. The patient's physical examination was unremarkable. Imaging revealed a large bifrontal mass arising from the falx cerebri, with significant compression of both cerebral hemispheres and downward displacement of the corpus callosum. The patient underwent a bifrontal craniotomy for gross total resection of tumor. Neuropathologic examination revealed a bland cartilaginous lesion most consistent with low-grade chondrosarcoma. Her postoperative course was uneventful, and she was discharged to home on postoperative day 3. Conclusion This is an unusual case of an extra-axial, non-skull base, low-grade chondrosarcoma presenting as facial spasm in an adolescent patient.
Teaching teachers to use technology through massive open online course: Perspectives of interaction equivalency

Abstract Massive Open Online Courses for Educators (MOOC-EDs) provide a new avenue for teaching teachers to use educational technology in classrooms, but a lack of individualized learner-instructor interaction in MOOCs may lead to dropouts. The interaction equivalency theorem implies that MOOCs have the potential to provide a virtually unlimited number of learners with meaningful experiences. Rich opportunities for learner interaction with course content and peers might offset the lack of learner-instructor interaction. However, evidence is largely absent for reconciling interaction equivalency in MOOCs to provide teachers with effective professional development. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate how interaction influenced teachers' course completion and examine teachers’ perception of interaction equivalency in a MOOC-based professional development course. A mixed method study was conducted by collecting and analyzing MOOC-ED log data and individual interviews with the teacher participants. The findings confirmed the importance of interactions in MOOCs. In addition, this study indicated learner-content interaction was the predictor of whether teachers completed the course and the very form of interaction that teachers who completed the course had engaged in most frequently. Practical implications for providing teachers with an effective interaction experience and establishing the interaction equivalence in MOOC-based teacher professional development courses are discussed.
Percutaneous Core Needle Biopsy: Considerations in the Pediatric Patient

Image-guided percutaneous biopsy is the cornerstone of solid tissue diagnosis. The ability to safely sample tissue in locations that previously required surgery or necessitated empiric therapy has allowed for more personalized treatment options, as well as more rapid development of novel therapeutics. In children, these same advantages are accompanied by a smaller margin for error and rapidly expanding indications. The intent of this review is to outline the role of image-guided biopsy in the management of childhood disease, how this role is changing, and the practical aspects of managing and performing pediatric biopsies.
Recognizing duration effects in multistate population models

The risk of many demographic events varies by both current state and duration in that state. However, the use of such semi-Markov models has been substantially constrained by data limitations. Here, a new specification of the semi-Markov transition probability matrix in terms of the underlying rates is provided, and a general procedure is developed to estimate semi-Markov probabilities and rates from adjacent population data. Multistate models recognizing marriage and divorce by duration in state are constructed for United States Females, 1995. The results show that recognizing duration in the married and divorced states adds significantly to the model’s analytical value. Extending the constant-α method to semi-Markov models, 2000–2005 U.S. population data and 1995 cross-product ratios are employed to estimate 2000–2005 duration-dependent transfer probabilities and rates. The present analyses provide new relationships between probabilities and rates in semi-Markov models. Extending the constant cross-product ratio estimation approach opens new sources of data and expands the range of data susceptible to state-duration analyses.
Weimar Germany, Prophetic to Apocalyptic

A sea change began in German thought during the First World War. The new rebels (Peter Gay’s “outsiders as insiders”) of fin de siecle Germany rejected the old Enlightenment ideals of culture and cultivation (Kultur), popular education towards morality and autonomy (Bildung),1 immanent historical progress, reason, and humanism.
Tendon Resident Cells—Functions and Features in Section I—Developmental Biology and Physiology of Tendons

An emerging understanding of tendon development has been facilitated by recent identification of tendon-specific cellular markers. Positive expression of these markers persists in mature tendon, in which these resident cells synthesize a complex extracellular matrix (ECM). Beyond providing the structure and function of tendon, the ECM contains unique topographical, mechanical, and biochemical motifs, which together provide instructive cues to the resident cells. Insights into the dynamic reciprocal interactions between cells and the ECM will be essential to understanding tendon health and disease. In particular, studying the effects of mechanical loading on the behavior of resident cells, including a recently discovered subgroup of multipotent cells termed tendon stem/progenitor cells, has begun to shed light on the mechanisms of tendon pathogenesis and healing. This chapter highlights features and functions of tendon cells, exploring their origin and phenotype as well their interactions with tendon ECM.
Tortured Souls: Unhappy Lawyers Viewed Through the Medium of Film

Lawyers are unhappy. So bad is the situation that scholars have even asked, "Can one be a lawyer and a happy human being at the same time?" Culturally, the existence of unhappy lawyers is not an unknown phenomenon. Case in point: the portrayal of tortured attorneys through the medium of film. This Article focuses on nine such lawyers: Ned Racine, Michael Clayton, Frank Galvin, Reggie Love, Paul Biegler, Sam Bowden, Arthur Kirkland, Jan Schlichtmann, and Atticus Finch. Similarities between lawyers in reel life and real life quickly emerge. The legal profession should pay attention to these common struggles. Attorneys in film have much to teach. Their most lasting lessons point the way for the modern lawyer to reclaim a satisfying and fulfilling legal career. Through the movies, lawyers old and new can freshly discover the secrets for lasting success: doing what one loves, devoting oneself to a noble end, and refusing to compromise ethically. That great cinema contains enduring truths and insights should not be surprising. The best films help us to learn something more about ourselves. Learning without action, however, soon melts away. When trapped in unhappiness, it is the individual who must act and make choices consistent with that person's core values. Movies can rekindle our ideals. But only we can make those ideals a reality.
Relative Efficiency for the Detection of Apparent Motion

We measured the relative efficiency for motion and position discriminations of brief, localized spot stimuli with a technique that makes no assumptions about sites of noise or information loss in the visual system. In one task, the observer had to discriminate whether an increment was located at one (left) or another (right) closely spaced spots. In the other task, the observer had to discriminate two successive brief increments of the left spot from a left spot increment followed by a right spot increment. Ideal observer theory predicts identical performance on the two tasks. Observers' thresholds, however, were significantly lower in the motion task at all intervals between flashes (ISIs) less than 60 msec in one observer and all ISIs less than 150 msec in two other observers (P < 0.01, t-test). We conclude that this apparent motion stimulus is seen more efficiently than a non-moving stimulus, and that the higher efficiency may be due to use of a motion sensitive channel in addition to independent position sensitive channels.
Estrogen metabolism in rat liver microsomal and isolated hepatocyte preparations--I. Metabolite formation and irreversible binding to cellular macromolecules.

Abstract The metabolism of endogenous estrogens, estradiol and estrone, and the irreversible binding of estrogens to cellular macromolecules have been examined and compared in subcellular microsomal and in intact hepatocyte preparations. In studies with rat liver microsomal preparations containing estradiol, an NADPH-generating system, and denatured DNA, the irreversible binding of radiolabeled steroid metabolite(s) to the microsomal proteins was 3.26 nmoles/mg protein in 1 hr (S.D. 0.39; 7.9% of total steroid) while binding to DNA was found to be 0.288 nmole/mg DNA/mg protein (S.D. 0.025; 0.39% of total steroid). No significant difference was observed between microsomal preparations from untreated, phenobarbital-treated or 3-methylcholanthrene-treated rats. Irreversible binding to proteins was also demonstrated in the intact hepatocyte cell incubations. After 2-hr incubations of estradiol with hepatocytes, 5.9% (S.D. 1.4%) of the steroid(s) was irreversibly associated with cellular proteins (approximately 1.43 pmoles/mg/min). Analysis of the organic-soluble metabolites demonstrated the presence of the catechol estrogens and their metabolites, 2-hydroxyestradiol, 2-hydroxyestrone, 2-methoxyestradiol, and 2-methoxyestrone. Estrone and estriol were also identified. The aqueous-soluble materials isolated from hepatocyte incubations contained glucuronide, sulfate, and apparent thioether conjugates, as determined by liberation from estrogen metabolites by treatment with β-glucuronidase, sulfatase, and Raney nickel. Thus, extensive primary and secondary metabolism of estrogens occurs in intact hepatocyte incubations. Furthermore, irreversible binding of estrogens to cellular proteins occurs in these intact cells having demonstrated conjugative pathways of metabolism.
Brackett-γ Line Survey of the Ionized Hydrogen in the Galactic Plane

We have carried out a 2.1655 micron Brackett-gamma hydrogen recombination emission line pilot survey of the Galactic plane using a Goddard-Wisconsin cryogenic Fabry-Perot spectrometer. For this survey fields were selected along the Galactic plane from 358° to 43° longitude. The velocity range of the observed emission features ranges from −10 km s−1 to 90 km s−1 (LSR). Typical detected intensities correspond to emission measures of about 1000 cm−6 pc.
Effect of using a new cyanoacrylate adhesive on the shear bond strength of orthodontic brackets.

During bonding of orthodontic brackets to enamel, conventional adhesive systems use three different agents: an enamel conditioner, a primer solution, and an adhesive resin. A unique characteristic of some new bonding systems is that they need neither a priming agent nor a curing light to bond brackets. Such an approach should be more cost-effective for the clinician and indirectly also for the patient. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of using a cyanoacrylate adhesive on the shear bond strength of orthodontic brackets and on the bracket/adhesive failure mode. The brackets were bonded to extracted human teeth according to one of two protocols. Group 1: Teeth were etched with 37% phosphoric acid. After applying the primer, the brackets were bonded with Transbond XT (3M Unitek, Monrovia, Calif) and were light-cured for 20 seconds. Group 2: Teeth were etched with 35% phosphoric acid. The brackets were then bonded with Smartbond (Gestenco International, Gothenburg, Sweden). The present in vitro findings indicated that the use of the cyanoacrylate adhesive to bond orthodontic brackets to the enamel surface did not result in a significantly different (P 5 .24) shear bond force (mean 5 5.8 6 2.4 MPa) as compared to the control group (mean 5 5.2 6 2.9 MPa). The comparison of the Adhesive Remnant Index scores indicated that there was significantly (P 5 .006) less residual adhesive remaining on the tooth with the cyanoacrylate than on the tooth with the conventional adhesive system. In conclusion, the new adhesive has the potential to be used to bond orthodontic brackets while reducing the total bonding time. (Angle Orthod 2001;71:466-469.)
Dendritic solidification in a binary alloy melt - Comparison of theory and experiment

A simple model for 'constrained' growth of an 'array' of cells or dendrites in a binary alloy melt, in the presence of a positive temperature gradient in the liquid ahead of the tips, is presented. The cell or dendrite tip radius is calculated by adopting both the 'ad hoc' assumption of minimum undercooling at the tips as well as the more recently proposed hypothesis of dendritic growth under conditions of 'marginal stability'. Theoretical predictions of the model have been compared with experimental data in binary succinonitrile-acetone alloys. It has been shown that, according to the present model, the 'marginally stable' state may be virtually indistinguishable from the 'minimum undercooled' state, under the usual conditions of dendritic growth.
THE PURE ROTATIONAL SPECTRUM OF LICH3(X 1A)

Abstract The pure rotational spectrum of lithium monomethyl, LiCH3, in its X 1 A ground electronic state has been measured using millimeter/sub-millimeter direct absorption techniques. Spectra of LiCD3 and 6 LiCH 3 have been recorded as well. These species were synthesized in the gas phase by the reaction of lithium vapor, produced in a Broida-type oven, and (CH3)4Sn, (CH3)2Hg or CH3I. Transitions were recorded in the 90–505 GHz range for J=2←1 to J=11←10 and K=0 up to K=10. Rotational and centrifugal distortion constants have been determined for each isotopomer, as well as an ro structure for LiCH3.
Performance Evaluation of Whitetopping and Ultrathin Whitetopping Pavements

Whitetopping overlay is a relatively new rehabilitation technology as an alternative to hot-mix asphalt (HMA) overlay. It is defined as a portland cement concrete (PCC) overlay on the existing deteriorated HMA pavement to improve the structural and functional capability. When the PCC overlay thickness is less than or equal to 10.16 cm (4 in.), it is referred to as ultrathin whitetopping (UTW). Otherwise it is referred to as normal whitetopping (WT). The objective of this research is to evaluate the performance of in-service whitetopping pavements as a rehabilitation technology by means of a pavement distress survey and falling weight deflectometer test. The performance of whitetopping pavements was characterized by the pavement condition index and pavement distress index. Statistical analysis of the performance was conducted in regard to major factors. Slab thickness, slab size, and pavement age were found to have a significant effect on the performance. The critical distance method and the MODCOMP6 program were applied in this study to backcalculate the layer properties of UTW and WT, respectively. KENSLAB was used to determine pavement response for fatigue analysis.
Older Adults' Attitudes Toward Home Modifications for Fall Prevention

To determine older adults' attitudes toward fall risks and home modification to alter these risks, we assessed participants' houses and used semi-structured interviews to explore their fall and injury history, fall risk, and attitudes toward modifying their residence to reduce their fall risk. Using a grounded theory approach, interview transcripts were coded by three investigators and analyzed inductively. The authors identified themes related to participants' perceptions about their falls and discovered an unanticipated and pervasive lack of interest in modifying their residences to reduce their fall risk. Generally, participants did not see their falls as a problem, did not believe they needed assistance to prevent falls, did not believe modifying their houses would prevent falls, and did not like others telling them to change their houses. Implications of the study suggest that fall-prevention strategies are inherently linked to an elder's home-self relationship, challenging the utility of simple chec...
Comparison of flutamide (SCH-13521) and diethylstilbestrol in untreated advanced prostatic cancer.

Abstract A double-blind study comparing the efficacy of flutamide (SCH-13521) and diethylstilbestrol in 15 patients with advanced, previously untreated adenocarcinoma in the prostate is herein presented. Patients receiving diethylstilbestrol, I mg. daily, remained stable without evidence of progression of their disease for an average of 25.6 weeks while those receiving either high- or low-dose flutamide showed no objective progression for an average of thirty weeks. There were no complete remissions, and no significant side effects were seen with either of these agents. In this small series of hormonally untreated Stage D prostatic cancer patients, neither agent displayed significant superiority.
Echocardiographically Guided Electrophysiologic Testing in Pregnancy

Electrophysiologic testing is usually performed with fluoroscopy to guide catheter positioning. This method of visualizing catheter placement may not be ideal for patients who are pregnant. We, report four cases of echocardiographically guided placement of catheters for electrophysiologic testing because of the consideration of pregnancy. Adequate visualization of catheters was possible, allowing for proper catheter positioning and complete electrophysiologic testing, including the recording of atrial, His-bundle, and ventricular potentials, as well as cardiac stimulation and induction of tachycardia. This method holds promise for patients in whom fluoroscopy may be relatively contraindicated, such as pregnant patients, as well as patients in whom it is desirable to avoid x-ray exposure such as women of childbearing age and young children.
Transcription and accurate polyadenylation in vitro of RNA from the major late adenovirus 2 transcription unit

Nucleoprotein complexes with in vitro transcription activity were isolated from HeLa cells late in lytic infection with Adenovirus type 2 (Ad2). Both polymerase II and polymerase III were active in these extracts, and greater than 85% of the labeled RNA was Ad2-specific. Electrophoretic analyses and Southern blot analyses demonstrated that RNA complementary to the entire 30 kb late transcription unit including RNA near the presumed termination site was synthesized. The addition of DRB (5,6,dichloro-1-beta-D-ribofuranosyl-benzimidazole) in vivo prior to the isolation of the complexes resulted in accumulation of polymerase II at the promoter proximal sites, but nascent chains started in vivo in DRB were successfully elongated in vitro. Approximately 10% of the RNA labeled in vitro contained poly(A), and the length of poly(A) was very similar to that of nuclear RNA isolated from Ad2-infected cells. The in vitro sites of poly(A) addition were specific--labeled poly(A)-terminated RNA molecules ended at a point on the genome coincident with previously mapped poly(A) sites of mRNAs produced in vivo. In addition, the polyadenylation enzyme (or enzymes) cosediment with the nucleoprotein complexes during sucrose gradient centrifugation since gradient purified complexes synthesize poly(A) containing RNA in vitro in the absence of any added nuclear extract.
Processing and Thermal Conductivity of Lead Telluride Microwires

We present a unique method for producing continuous PbTe microwires which may be spooled for commercial use, and provide evidence that such wires tend to form single crystals with diameters less than 10 μm. Because PbTe microwires can, potentially, be used to fabricate miniature thermoelectric generators, a commercial fiber optic draw tower was used to produce such wires. In general, the thermoelectric figure of merit of a semiconductor is expected to decrease if its thermal conductivity increases. Because PbTe microwires with diameters less than 10 μm contain no grain boundaries and have fewer other defects, for example cracks and pores, their thermal conductivity was expected to be high, as a result of reduced phonon scattering. Accordingly, it was of interest to determine how the thermal conductivity of PbTe microwires behaved in two diameter ranges, i.e., those with diameters <10 μm and those with substantially larger diameters. We report thermal conductivity data for such microwires, at 725 K, determined by use of the 3ω method. Special attention was paid to minimizing conduction and radiation losses which are sources of error at high temperatures. The results prove that the thermal conductivity of PbTe microwires remains invariant in the diameter range 1.6–60 μm.
Quantification of Drive-Response Relationships Between Residues During Protein Folding

Mutual correlation and cooperativity are commonly used to describe residue-residue interactions in protein folding/function. However, these metrics do not provide any information on the causality relationships between residues. Such drive-response relationships are poorly studied in protein folding/function and difficult to measure experimentally due to technical limitations. In this study, using the information theory transfer entropy (TE) that provides a direct measurement of causality between two times series, we have quantified the drive-response relationships between residues in the folding/unfolding processes of four small proteins generated by molecular dynamics simulations. Instead of using a time-averaged single TE value, the time-dependent TE is measured with the Q-scores based on residue-residue contacts and with the statistical significance analysis along the folding/unfolding processes. The TE analysis is able to identify the driving and responding residues that are different from the highly correlated residues revealed by the mutual information analysis. In general, the driving residues have more regular secondary structures, are more buried, and show greater effects on the protein stability as well as folding and unfolding rates. In addition, the dominant driving and responding residues from the TE analysis on the whole trajectory agree with those on a single folding event, demonstrating that the drive-response relationships are preserved in the non-equilibrium process. Our study provides detailed insights into the protein folding process and has potential applications in protein engineering and interpretation of time-dependent residue-based experimental observables for protein function.
Variable Rainfall Intensity and Tillage Effects on Runoff, Sediment, and Carbon Losses from a Loamy Sand under Simulated Rainfall

The low-carbon, intensively cropped Coastal Plain soils of Georgia are susceptible to runoff, soil loss, and drought. Reduced tillage systems offer the best management tool for sustained row crop production. Understanding runoff, sediment, and chemical losses from conventional and reduced tillage systems is expected to improve if the effect of a variable rainfall intensity storm was quantified. Our objective was to quantify and compare effects of a constant (Ic) intensity pattern and a more realistic, observed, variable (Iv) rainfall intensity pattern on runoff (R), sediment (E), and carbon losses (C) from a Tifton loamy sand cropped to conventional-till (CT) and strip-till (ST) cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Four treatments were evaluated: CT-Ic, CT-Iv, ST-Ic, and ST-Iv, each replicated three times. Field plots (n=12), each 2 by 3 m, were established on each treatment. Each 6-m2 field plot received simulated rainfall at a constant (57 mm h(-1)) or variable rainfall intensity pattern for 70 min (12-run ave.=1402 mL; CV=3%). The Iv pattern represented the most frequent occurring intensity pattern for spring storms in the region. Compared with CT, ST decreased R by 2.5-fold, E by 3.5-fold, and C by 7-fold. Maximum runoff values for Iv events were 1.6-fold higher than those for Ic events and occurred 38 min earlier. Values for Etot and Ctot for Iv events were 19-36% and 1.5-fold higher than corresponding values for Ic events. Values for Emax and Cmax for Iv events were 3-fold and 4-fold higher than corresponding values for Ic events. Carbon enrichment ratios (CER) were or=1.0 for CT plots (except for first 20 min). Maximum CER for CT-Ic, CT-Iv, ST-Ic, and ST-Iv were 2.0, 2.2, 1.0, and 1.2, respectively. Transport of sediment, carbon, and agrichemicals would be better understood if variable rainfall intensity patterns derived from natural rainfall were used in rainfall simulations to evaluate their fate and transport from CT and ST systems.
Membrane incorporation of 22-hydroxycholesterol inhibits chemokine receptor activity.

Abstract Cell membrane exposure to oxysterols, such as 22-hydroxycholesterol (22-OHC), has previously been shown to induce a suppressive effect on lymphocyte activation. Based on our previous findings that chemokine binding was significantly inhibited by the extraction of membrane cholesterol, we sought to assess the effects of 22-OHC treatment on chemokine ligand-binding and receptor activity. Our results revealed that 22-OHC, but not nonoxidized cholesterol, significantly reduced the binding of both SDF-1α and MIP-1β to human T-cell lines and PBMCs within 1 h of treatment. Incubating the treated cells at 37°C for 1 h reversed a majority of the inhibitory effects on chemokine binding. 22-OHC also inhibited intracellular calcium mobilization and cell migration in response to SDF-1α treatment. Interestingly, while the presence of oxysterols in cell membranes significantly inhibits chemokine receptor function, this inhibitory effect does not involve alterations in receptor conformation, expression, or a direct antagonism of chemokine binding. We propose here a novel mechanism for oxysterol-mediated inhibition of chemokine receptor function and the implications for the presence of oxysterols on immune cells.
Stage of disease confounds apparent relationship between levels of N-ras and duration of survival in head and neck tumours

The objective of this study was to determine whether elevated levels of N-ras correlated with clinicopathological data. Complete clinical data were available on 133 of 481 patients surgically treated for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) who had immunohistochemical data for N-ras. Advanced stages of disease were strongly related to the staining for N-ras in tumour cells (P = 0.0031). The stage of disease was inversely related to duration of survival (P = 0.0017). Initial statistical evaluation revealed an apparent correlation between survival and N-ras staining. However, duration was found to be independent of the level of N-ras. The illusory relationship initially was a result of the confounding effect of the stage of disease.
Sample Size in Sport Fishery Surveys

Abstract Described is a method for estimating sample size (n) in sport fishery surveys in which the sample mean square residual (sc.f2) for the regression (through the origin) of catch (C) on effort (F) is related to the sample mean catch rate (b, the slope of the regression of C on F).
Discussions around goals of care: An ethical imperative.

In this issue of Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine, Dunlay and Strand [1] present an excellent “how to” review for physicians and other clinicians on discussion of goals of care for patients with cardiac disease. The authors present an insightful identification of potential barriers to these discussions for clinicians, with data countering many misconceptions and specific instructions on how to proceed. The importance of discussion of goals of care cannot be overemphasized in an era in which these discussions have been misleadingly and cynically disparaged by politicians as “death panels,” used to block appropriate reimbursement [2]. Discussions of patients' goals for their medical care as illness advances have been shown to improve quality of life for these patients [3]. The devastating impact on a patient and his/her family of the failure to discuss goals of care has been movingly described by Butler [4] in an often-quoted New York Times article as well as a longer book [5]. Studies show that patients and their families want these interactions with their physicians [6,7], yet as these authors and others point out, they happen too rarely [8,9]. It is imperative that patients understand that choosing a focus on comfort rather than intervention is an option, and that it is ethically and legally permissible to discontinue even interventions, which they have previously consented to, as confirmed by multiple Supreme Court decisions, detailed elsewhere [8]. Major religious traditions recognize that to accept and allow death is different from killing and does not violate the value of human life [8]. Not only is it ethically permissible to discuss with patients their wishes for their care at the end of life but also it is an ethical imperative to do so. The first principle of medical
Weight gain on androgen deprivation therapy: which patients are at highest risk?

Objective To identify factors associated with weight gain at 1 year from initiation of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Methods A retrospective review assessed weight change among 118 men with nonmetastatic prostate cancer treated with ADT for at least 6 months. Outcome associations were tested using 2-tailed t tests and linear regression. Results Men in our cohort had significant weight gain (+1.32 kg, P = .0005) in the 1 year after ADT initiation. Three risk factors for weight gain on ADT were identified as follows: age P = .001), body mass index (BMI) P = .00002), and nondiabetic status (1.56 kg gained, P = .0003). Multivariable regression found both age P = .02) and BMI P = .03) to be independently predictive of weight gain, whereas nondiabetic status was nonsignificantly predictive of weight gain (beta = 2.14, P = .29). Weight change was further stratified by the total number of risk factors present (risk score): scores of 0, 1, 2, and 3 risk factors corresponded to weight changes of −1.10, +0.41, +1.34, and +3.79 kg, respectively ( P - trend = .0005). Conclusion Age
Nanoscale probe system for cell-organelle analysis

Abstract Planar and bended needle shaped probes with a dual electrode system in submicron size have been developed for electrochemical analyses of living single cells. The probe system is designed for local probing of the cytosolic cell environment and cell organelles using amperometric, potentiometric and impedance spectroscopic methods. Silicon nitride cantilevers with an electrode metal layer system are fabricated on 4-in. wafers using conventional micro-fabrication techniques. The probe needle structures with a tip in submicron scale are patterned using focus ion beam (FIB) technology. A focused ion beam is utilized to write the probe needle shape into the pre-shaped cantilever and, for a dual electrode system, the probe is divided into two parts to create two separate electrodes. Subsequently, the planar needle structures are released from the supporting bulk silicon during a wet etching step, and a silicon nitride layer is deposited to isolate and embed the electrode metal layer. Finally, FIB milling is used for a precise exposure of the buried metal layer by cutting the top of the tip. Bended nano-probes for simultaneous AFM analyses were fabricated by combining this process with pre-structured wafers. This way AFM probe systems with high aspect ratio silicon nitride tips with single and dual electrochemical transducers can be manufactured. Electrochemical and mechanical characterization of planar and bended probes showed full functionality. The sharpness of the probe tip with a radius of smaller than 50 nm and the mechanical robustness of the needle structure allow for a reliable scanning as well as penetration of cell membranes. Initial measurements of cell membrane potentials and cell membrane impedances of rat fibroblast cells using Ag/AgCl transducer probes demonstrate the analytical capability of these probes in biological environments.
Parallel butterfly algorithm and VLSI architectures for image decorrelation

We present a new high speed parallel architecture and its VLSI implementation to design a special purpose hardware for real-time lossless image compression/decompression using a decorrelation scheme. The proposed architecture can easily be implemented using state-of-the- art VLSI technology. The hardware yields a high compression rate. A prototype 1-micron VLSI chip based on this architectural idea has been designed. The scheme is favorably comparable to the JPEG baseline lossless image compression schemes. We also discuss the parallelization issues of the JPEG baseline standard still compression schemes and their difficulties.
Digital Video-Electroencephalographic Monitoring in the Neurological-Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit: Clinical Features and Outcome

Background Prolonged electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings in the neurological-neurosurgical intensive care unit (NICU) may be performed in patients with status epilepticus, repetitive seizure activity, or an encephalopathy with or without seizures. The electroclinical correlation and neurological outcome of patients undergoing digital video-EEG monitoring (DVEEG) in the NICU has not been determined. Objectives To evaluate the clinical utility and prognostic importance of the DVEEG in the NICU. Methods We retrospectively evaluated 105 patients who underwent DVEEG in the NICU at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn, between January 1, 1994, and July 31, 2001. All patients had a routine EEG recording performed prior to DVEEG. Results The mean age of the patients at the time of the DVEEG was 54 years (age range, 16-88 years). The mean duration of the DVEEG was 2.9 days (range, 1-17 days). Forty-four patients (42%) had a severe encephalopathy (Glasgow Coma Scale score, Conclusions Continuous EEG monitoring is essential in the diagnosis and treatment of refractory status epilepticus or an encephalopathy with seizures in the NICU. A minority of these patients, however, experienced a favorable neurological outcome.
Amplitude discrimination in masking release paradigms

In the first phase of the study, detection thresholds were obtained in conditions that were associated with comodulation masking release (CMR), conditions that were associated with the masking‐level difference (MLD), or conditions that were not associated with masking release (baseline conditions). In the second phase of the study, amplitude discrimination was determined for standard tones presented at sensation levels (SLs) 0–30 dB above the masked detection thresholds. Results indicated that, at matched SLs, amplitude discrimination was poorer under conditions of masking release than for baseline conditions, both for the MLD and for CMR. Implications of these results for models of masking release are discussed.