cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Studies of Regulation of Hexose Transport into Cultured Fibroblasts

The intent of this review is to discuss some physiological features of cellular regulation of glucose transport into cultured fibroblasts. It will be confined in the following ways: 1. The animal cells under discussion are cultured avian and mammalian fibroblasts in the postlogarithmic growth phase (or in tumorigenic cultures, medium to high density). The cultures are monolayer cultures, not suspension cultures. 2. The main theme will be the effects of carbohydrates and their metabolism in relation to the regulation of uptake or transport of hexoses into cultured fibroblasts, including special metabolic mutants. The downregulation of the hexose transport of the cultures will be called “the glucose-mediated transport curb.” 3. The transport systems discussed are largely the facilitated diffusion of hexoses and its regulation by carbohydrate metabolism. Where amino acid transport systems (such as the A and L systems) are discussed, this is strictly related to carbohydrate transport and metabolism. 4. Since hexose transporters are membrane proteins, aspects of protein recycling will have to be considered, and hence also the effects of inhibitors of protein synthesis. 5. Some stress-related factors, such as glucose starvation, uncouplers of respiration, as well as oncological transformations and their effects on hexose transport regulation, will be discussed.
Neutrophil growth factors

A significant advance in the field of neutrophil growth factors has occurred with the commercial availability of pegfilgrastim (Neulasta, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA), a new-generation, pegylated filgrastim molecule with a sustained duration of action. Pegylation of filgrastim allows once-per-chemotherapy cycle frequency of administration, in contrast to repeated daily administration of filgrastim. Clinical data from two randomized trials demonstrate equivalence of pegfilgrastim and filgrastim in duration of severe neutropenia and recovery from absolute neutrophil count nadir following myelosuppressive chemotherapy. In addition, secondary endpoint results in both trials suggest an enhanced reduction in the overall incidence of febrile neutropenia with pegfilgrastim. Neutrophil kinetic studies demonstrate steady serum neutrophil levels following pegfilgrastim administration, in contrast to the peak-and-trough neutrophil effects observed following filgrastim administration. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) therapy has an antiapoptotic effect on neutrophils, which may be enhanced by continuous serum concentrations of pegfilgrastim. Monocytes possess a G-CSF receptor, and this finding has fueled investigational analysis of the role of G-CSF as a mediator in the host inflammatory response to foreign pathogens. The data demonstrate that depending on the timing of administration, G-CSF may function as a proinflammatory mediator or an anti-inflammatory mediator. It is likely that the early, prophylactic administration of pegfilgrastim creates an environment in which an anti-inflammatory response predominates. Additional investigational studies will be necessary to confirm and better define the mechanism for enhanced benefit of pegfilgrastim over filgrastim. The recent biologic findings of the mechanism of G-CSF therapy reviewed here provide a strong basis from which further research initiatives may be conducted.
Ethnic differences in risk: experiences, medical needs, and access to care after hurricane Sandy in New Jersey

This survey investigation assessed an economically challenged and largely minority population regarding concerns, evacuation status, medical needs and access to care during, and after, Hurricane Sandy by ethnicity status for patients using New Jersey's Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC). Data obtained contribute to understanding risk from disasters, and improving environmental justice for vulnerable populations following disasters. FQHCs provide medical and dental services for 5% of New Jersey 's population; 95% of those served are uninsured, underinsured, or live below the poverty level. Economically vulnerable individuals are more at risk and were disproportionately harmed by Sandy. There were ethnic differences in days evacuated, days without power and heat, self-rating of personal/family impact, center use, need and access, and interruptions of care and medications. Hispanics and Blacks reported needing centers significantly more than White population. Primary medical conditions were diabetes, asthma, hypertension, and arrhythmia and heart disease, which did not vary ethnically. Understanding medical needs and concerns of vulnerable populations may help policymakers and practitioners prepare and respond promptly to disasters, reducing risk, and building resiliency for the medical care system.
Equivalence of the Rothberger, k-Rothberger, and restricted Menger games

Abstract We prove that in any Hausdorff space, the Rothberger game is equivalent to the k-Rothberger game, i.e. the game in which player II chooses k open sets in each move. This result follows from a more general theorem in which we show these games are equivalent to a game we call the restricted Menger game. In this game I knows immediately in advance of playing each open cover how many open sets II will choose from that open cover. This result illuminates the relationship between the Rothberger and Menger games in Hausdorff spaces. The equivalence of these games answers a question posed by Aurichi, Bella, and Dias [1] , at least in the context of Hausdorff spaces.
Effect of theory-based contraception comics on subjective contraceptive knowledge: a pilot study

Abstract Objectives We assessed the effect on subjective knowledge of a pilot educational comic decision aid about contraceptive methods. Study design We designed four comics ( www.birthcontroltales.com ), each about a different contraceptive method choice. The comics employ a theoretical framework, and the methods addressed were injection, intrauterine device, implant and combined hormonal contraceptives (including pill, patch and ring). The study population included young women presenting to a college student health clinic whose preferred language is English. Participants had not used the contraceptive method described in the comic and viewed the comics in color printed copy. We assessed contraception subjective knowledge using a pretest/posttest six-question survey with Likert scale responses before and after exposure to the comics. Surveys conducted during the participants' visit also measured participant satisfaction with the comic and participant sexual history. Results A total of 120 individual participants divided into groups of 30 each viewed one of four separate comics. Across the four groups, the difference in the pretest/posttest scores of the six-question subjective knowledge survey indicated a 72% average increase (p value Conclusion Comics about contraceptive methods can be a communications tool that increases subjective knowledge of contraceptive methods. Comics that model contraceptive choice decision processes can increase individual subjective knowledge of the contraceptive method mechanism, effect, usage, side effects, feasibility and benefits. Possessing subjective knowledge of contraceptive methods can influence contraceptive initiation and use and therefore has potential implications for changing contraceptive attitudes and behavior. Implications Contraceptive method comics should be further examined in other clinic settings with broader demographic populations to glean the effect on patient decision and contraceptive behavior. Integration of the comics into a contraceptive counseling practice can be assessed in an observational trial. Additionally, studies should also consider testing long-term patient behavior, and both patient and provider satisfaction.
Simulating unmanned aerial vehicle swarms with the UB-ANC Emulator:

Recent advances in multi-rotor vehicle control and miniaturization of hardware, sensing, and battery technologies have enabled cheap, practical design of micro air vehicles for civilian and hobby a...
Swire: Sketch-based User Interface Retrieval

Sketches and real-world user interface examples are frequently used in multiple stages of the user interface design process. Unfortunately, finding relevant user interface examples, especially in large-scale datasets, is a highly challenging task because user interfaces have aesthetic and functional properties that are only indirectly reflected by their corresponding pixel data and meta-data. This paper introduces Swire, a sketch-based neural-network-driven technique for retrieving user interfaces. We collect the first large-scale user interface sketch dataset from the development of Swire that researchers can use to develop new sketch-based data-driven design interfaces and applications. Swire achieves high performance for querying user interfaces: for a known validation task it retrieves the most relevant example as within the top-10 results for over 60% of queries. With this technique, for the first time designers can accurately retrieve relevant user interface examples with free-form sketches natural to their design workflows. We demonstrate several novel applications driven by Swire that could greatly augment the user interface design process.
Asymptomatic patients with unsuccessful percutaneous inferior vena cava filter retrieval rarely develop complications despite strut penetrations through the caval wall.

Abstract Objective We established a program for retrieval of inferior vena cava (IVC) filters within our hospital system. When percutaneous retrieval fails, we only recommend open surgical removal for symptoms and other complications. We examined our outcomes with conservative management of unsuccessful percutaneous retrieval and open surgical removal for symptomatic/complicated IVC filters. Methods All patients with history of IVC filter placement who were referred to us for retrieval between 2010 and 2016 were evaluated. Before retrieval, patients were evaluated for risk of future venous thromboembolic events and ongoing need for IVC filtration. Asymptomatic patients with unsuccessful percutaneous filter retrieval were recommended to have annual follow-up with plain abdominal radiographs and to take daily low-dose aspirin. Patients with symptoms referable to the indwelling filter and those with complications were offered open surgical removal. Results There were 213 patients with a history of IVC filter placement who underwent 220 percutaneous attempts for retrieving 214 IVC filters (four patients had two attempts, one patient had three attempts). Technical success in percutaneously retrieving the filter was 180 of 214 (84.1%) at a median of 5.5 months (interquartile range [IQR], 3.5-9.2) from implant. The median filter dwell time was significantly longer in unsuccessful compared with successful retrieval attempts (8.3 months [IQR, 4.3-15.1 months] vs 5.5 months [IQR, 3.2-8.7 months]; P = .011). Of the 34 filters in 33 patients that could not be retrieved percutaneously, all had either significant filter barb penetration through the caval wall or a tilt angle of greater than 15°. The majority of patients (67%) remained asymptomatic without any further complications over a mean follow-up of 24 months (IQR, 12-50 months). No asymptomatic patients developed symptoms or complications over the follow-up period. Two of the five patients who were symptomatic underwent open surgical removal via minilaparotomy. An additional six patients who failed percutaneous retrieval at other institutions were referred to us for open surgical removal owing to symptoms or complications. Technical success for all open surgical removal of IVC filters was 100%. All patients had resolution of their symptoms after percutaneous or open surgical removal. Conclusions Asymptomatic patients with unsuccessful percutaneous IVC filter retrieval seem to have low complications in midterm follow-up despite significant filter strut penetration. Without symptoms or other complications, such patients do not require referral for open surgical filter removal. Symptomatic patients can expect low morbidity and resolution of symptoms after percutaneous or open surgical removal. Further studies are needed to determine the cost-effectiveness of routinely removing asymptomatic IVC filters.
The Anti-Public Administration Presidency: The Damage Trump Has Wrought:

President Trump and his Administration have gravely damaged the institutions and values of American public administration. Harm has been done to the federal workforce, the policymaking process, the...
Evaluating Cases in Context

Learner, facilitator, and environmental characteristics influence behavior and perception, which consequently affect the overall impact of any case on participants. It is important to consider context when evaluating the effectiveness of a case or series of cases in context. This chapter outlines an application of Stufflebeam and Zhang’s CIPP (context/inputs/process/products) evaluation model to the cases presented in this book and provides a map for evaluating the effectiveness of cases in different educational contexts.
MicroRNA dysregulation and multi-targeted therapy for cancer treatment

We established that loss of miR-15a/16-1 genes on chromosome 13q14 is the most common alteration in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) and that miR-15/16 are crucial negative regulator of BCL-2, an antiapoptotic gene overexpressed in most CLLs and in many other malignancies. We have also shown that miR-15/16 target ROR1, a cell surface receptor for Wnt5a which can enhance growth/survival of CLL cells. Interestingly, ROR1 is expressed by many cancers, but not by normal adult tissues. Moreover, Venetoclax, the anti-Bcl-2 drug, and Cirmtuzumab, the monoclonal antibody against ROR1, are synergistic in killing CLL cells. Since an additional miR-15/16 locus exists on chromosome 3q25 (miR-15b/16-2), we generated a knocked out mouse model to study its the role in cancer. We observed that the KO mice developed predominantly CLL. Thus, we generated a double knock out mouse model where both miR-15/16 loci were deleted. Surprisingly we observed that 77% of double KO mice developed Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Based on these evidences, we anticipate that also AMLs with low miR-15/16 expression, overexpression of BCL2 and expression of ROR1, would show an excellent response to a combination therapy with Venetoclax and Cirmtuzumab, since both drugs target the same malignant cells that have lost miR-15/16.
Affective and physiological synchrony in friendships during late adolescence

Dyadic synchrony within friendships examines the reciprocal exchange that may unfold between friends, such that the individuals within the dyad may share their emotions in response to or in anticip...
Comparing GPU Power and Frequency Capping: A Case Study with the MuMMI Workflow

Accomplishing the goal of exascale computing under a potential power limit requires HPC clusters to maximize both parallel efficiency and power efficiency. As modern HPC systems embark on a trend toward extreme heterogeneity leveraging multiple GPUs per node, power management becomes even more challenging, especially when catering to scientific workflows with co-scheduled components. The impact of managing GPU power on workflow performance and run-to-run reproducibility has not been adequately studied. In this paper, we present a first-of-its-kind research to study the impact of the two power management knobs that are available on NVIDIA Volta GPUs: frequency capping and power capping. We analyzed performance and power metrics of GPU’s on a top-10 supercomputer by tuning these knobs for more than 5,300 runs in a scientific workflow. Our data found that GPU power capping in a scientific workflow is an effective way of improving power efficiency while preserving performance, while GPU frequency capping is a demonstrably unpredictable way of reducing power consumption. Additionally, we identified that frequency capping results in higher variation and anomalous behavior on GPUs, which is counterintuitive to what has been observed in the research conducted on CPUs.
Deep Brain Stimulation

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a therapeutic technique that consists of delivering electrical current to selected brain structures using an implanted electrode. DBS is effective at reducing symptoms of Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and dystonia, and has been successfully used in the treatment of Tourette syndrome, obsessive–compulsive disorder, and depression.
Barriers to the implementation of new guidelines among pediatric surgeons: online survey.

To identify barriers that prevent pediatric surgeons from implementing updated practice guidelines. An online survey targeting pediatric surgeons was conducted on the StayCurrent MD Application (SCMA) and Pediatric Surgery Education Facebook page (PSE FBP). The survey results for pediatric surgeons of underdeveloped countries (PSUC) and pediatric surgeons of developed countries (PSDC) was compared and analyzed. Based on the number of active members on PSE FBP and SCA, the response rate was 32.3% (174/539), 66.3% of responses were from PSUC. The majority of PSUC (73%) wanted to have convincing guidelines and the plurality of PSDC (46%) wanted to see approval by the American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA) for implementation of new guidelines. Lack of resources was the number one response (78%) for PSUC not implementing the most up to date guidelines and about 40% of the PSDC responded “concerned about malpractice liability.” PSUC and PSDC identified very different barriers to implementation of new guidelines. It is reassuring that accessibility to treatment is not the primary issue, though resistance to implementation is a resounding concern. Identifying the barriers will highlight areas that need to be addressed, and awareness may help resolve some of the barriers.
A drag coefficient model for Lagrangian particle dynamics relevant to high-speed flows

Abstract A blended drag coefficient model is constructed using a series of empirical relations based on Reynolds number, Mach number, and Knudsen number. When validated against experiments, the drag coefficient model produces matching values with a standard deviation error of 2.84% and a maximum error of 11.87%. The model is used in a Lagrangian code which is coupled to a hypersonic aerothermodynamic CFD code, and the particle velocity and trajectory are validated against experimental results. The comparative results agree well and show that the new blended drag coefficient model is capable of predicting the particle motion accurately over a range of Reynolds number, Mach number, and Knudsen number.
PolyDAT: A Generic Data Schema for Polymer Characterization.

Polymers are stochastic materials that represent distributions of different molecules. In general, to quantify the distribution, polymer researchers rely on a series of chemical characterizations t...
Emerging Role of Genomic Analysis in Clinical Evaluation of Lean Individuals With NAFLD.

Whereas the rising prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is closely related with the global obesity epidemic, up to 10-20% of individuals with NAFLD are lean as defined by a body mass index of < 25 kg/m2 , or < 23 kg/m2 in Asians. This entity designated as "lean NAFLD" is estimated to affect 8 to 10 million individuals in the United States alone. Here, we review the emerging data on the epidemiology, natural history and prognosis of lean NAFLD and put forward a diagnostic approach that combines detailed clinical phenotyping with genomic analysis. We propose two subtypes of lean NAFLD referred to as type 1: individuals with visceral adiposity and insulin resistance but normal BMI; and type 2: lean individuals with hepatic steatosis secondary to a known or unknown monogenic disease. We envision that incorporation of genomic analysis in the diagnostic algorithm of lean patients with NAFLD will elucidate the contribution of common genetic variants through the calculation of NAFLD polygenic risk score and also characterize the diverse array of rare monogenic diseases that can lead to triglyceride accumulation in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes. Collectively, the integration of a molecular diagnosis in the clinical evaluation of patients with lean NAFLD will provide an accurate diagnosis, with possible targeted therapies and may uncover novel molecular mechanisms with potential broader therapeutic implications.
CBCT IMAGING OF “SILENT SINUS SYNDROME”—CASE REPORTS AND LITERATURE REVIEW

BACKGROUND Silent sinus syndrome (SSS) is familiar to otolaryngologists and ophthalmologists but is a rare clinical entity in dentistry and likely to be underdiagnosed because of lack of awareness. It presents a diagnostic challenge to dentists because patients typically have no history of trauma or sinusitis. The exact pathophysiology of SSS is still debated. Here we report 3 cases of SSS in adults. CASE REPORT As documented in cases reviewed at our institution, the typical feature of SSS is a gradual retreat of the maxillary sinus walls resulting in enophthalmos and hypoglobus. Analysis of axial and coronal cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) sections displayed characteristics such as unilateral volume loss in the maxillary sinus, retracted sinus walls, partial to complete soft tissue opacification of the affected maxillary sinus, and inferior bowing of the orbital floor. The radiographic differential diagnosis of SSS includes congenital maxillary sinus hypoplasia, chronic sinusitis, mucocele, and changes seen after maxillary sinus and orbital trauma. Some of the distinguishing features of congenital maxillary sinus hypoplasia include arrest of development of sinuses due to infection or trauma, congenital first arch syndrome, and other developmental anomalies. Congenital anomalies such as Treacher Collins syndrome are associated with unilateral maxillary sinus hypoplasia. All features of maxillary hypoplasia were absent in the presented 3 cases. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSIONS This report highlights the incidental finding of a relatively rarely reported and often underdiagnosed sinus pathosis on CBCT, SSS. Furthermore, the literature review underlines features observed on a higher spatial resolution modality with significant reduction in radiation doses. It is important for dental professionals to recognize the existence of SSS in otherwise asymptomatic patients and institute management where needed.
Noble Gas Retention Effect on Klystron High Voltage Stability

Several fielded klystrons experienced operational interruption due to sporadic arc events. Root cause analysis at CPI Canada revealed that VacIon pumps used to process these klystrons were saturated with nobble gases. Pressure bursts in pumping process indicated spontaneous release of gases back into the system. This process resulted in residual pressure of noble gases in the klystron. The cycle of adsorption and spontaneous release continued in the operating klystron resulting in sporadic high voltage arcing. This paper describes the details of root cause analysis and preventive actions.
China, Japan, and the East China Sea Territorial Dispute: A Systems Approach to Conflict Transformation

The territorial dispute between China and Japan over the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea poses a serious security threat to the region. It involves not only these two primary parties, but also the United States, Taiwan, the Okinawa community, and diverse other regional stakeholders. This article analyzes the interconnected nature of these stakeholders’ relationships in which the Sino-Japanese territorial dispute is embedded. It applies multi-angled systems thinking to the analysis. It then builds on the systems analysis to explore alternative ways of managing and transforming the conflict. Proposed measures include a transitional framework for transcending the mutually exclusive nature of territorial sovereignty and prioritizing a practical and mutually beneficial use of the resources and maritime space in the East China Sea. Key words: China-Japan relations, East China Sea, conflict resolution, territorial dispute
Decentralization and small cities: Towards more effective urban disaster governance?

Abstract Decentralization, the devolution of fiscal, political, and administrative powers and responsibilities from centralized governments to local ones, has spread rapidly throughout Asia. Proponents of decentralization argue that it has the potential to improve local capacity for governing many challenging issues, including the management of hazards, disasters, and the effects of global climate change. Disaster governance is particularly challenging in small cities, communities that house a large portion of Asia's urban population but where disaster management institutions, knowledge, and capacity are often lacking. Across Asia, a substantial portion of urban growth is occurring in small cities. This paper examines whether decentralization has led to more effective disaster governance in small cities in India, using the state of West Bengal as a case study. It finds that decentralization has created the potential for improved disaster governance, by providing constitutional and legal authority for improved urban governance and local disaster management plans and programs. In reality, however, decentralization has yet to significantly reduce urban disaster risk in small cities in West Bengal.
Feedback-free Modularization of Compilers

The SCT is as far as we can go without introducing serious machine dependencies. The remaining steps in the process fall beyond the scope of this paper.
Two-Level Main Memory Co-Design: Multi-threaded Algorithmic Primitives, Analysis, and Simulation

A fundamental challenge for supercomputer architecture is that processors cannot be fed data from DRAM as fast as CPUs can consume it. Therefore, many applications are memory-bandwidth bound. As the number of cores per chip increases, and traditional DDR DRAM speeds stagnate, the problem is only getting worse. A variety of non-DDR 3D memory technologies (Wide I/O 2, HBM) offer higher bandwidth and lower power by stacking DRAM chips on the processor or nearby on a silicon interposer. However, such a packaging scheme cannot contain sufficient memory capacity for a node. It seems likely that future systems will require at least two levels of main memory: high-bandwidth, low-power memory near the processor and low-bandwidth high-capacity memory further away. This near memory will probably not have significantly faster latency than the far memory. This, combined with the large size of the near memory (multiple GB) and power constraints, may make it difficult to treat it as a standard cache. In this paper, we explore some of the design space for a user-controlled multi-level main memory. We present algorithms designed for the heterogeneous bandwidth, using streaming to exploit data locality. We consider algorithms for the fundamental application of sorting. Our algorithms asymptotically reduce memory-block transfers under certain architectural parameter settings. We use and extend Sandia National Laboratories' SST simulation capability to demonstrate the relationship between increased bandwidth and improved algorithmic performance. Memory access counts from simulations corroborate predicted performance. This co-design effort suggests implementing two-level main memory systems may improve memory performance in fundamental applications.
A Temporal Logic Based Framework for Intrusion Detection

We propose a framework for intrusion detection that is based on runtime monitoring of temporal logic specifications. We specify intrusion patterns as formulas in an expressively rich and efficiently monitorable logic called Eagle. Eagle supports data-values and parameterized recursive equations, and allows us to succinctly express security attacks with complex temporal event patterns, as well as attacks whose signatures are inherently statistical in nature. We use an online monitoring algorithm that matches specifications of the absence of an attack, with system execution traces, and raises an alarm whenever the specification is violated. We present our implementation of this approach in a prototype tool, called Monid and report our results obtained by applying it to detect a variety of security attacks in log-files provided by DARPA.
Half-Fourier transform and application to radar signals

In this paper we discuss the Half Fourier Transform (HFT) and explore its application to radar-return signals with specular components. It is shown that this transform enables separation of the desired part from the specular impulsive components. The effectiveness of this technique and the computer program developed, is demonstrated by simulation examples. Our program uses an optimization package which performs minimization of a nonlinear sum-of-squares functional with a model trust region strategy.
Abstract 11295: Sonoreperfusion Therapy for Microvascular Obstruction Using Microbubbles and Low Dose tPa

Background: Despite successful epicardial recanalization in acute myocardial infarction, adequate microvascular perfusion often fails due to embolization of thrombotic debris causing microvascular obstruction (MVO). We previously reported that long tone burst high mechanical index ultrasound (US) + microbubbles (MB) restored microvascular perfusion (sonoreperfusion, SRP) in an in vitro flow model using PBS perfusate. We sought to demonstrate SRP efficacy in whole blood perfusate with and without low dose tPa. Methods: The model comprised a 4 mm diameter phantom vessel with a 40 μm pore mesh to simulate a microvascular cross section and upstream pressure reflecting thrombus burden. Bovine whole blood and 2x106/ml lipid MB (~3 μm) infused at 0.75 ml/min simulated microvascular flow. Bovine blood microthrombi were injected onto the mesh until upstream pressure was 30 mmHg. US was delivered for 20 min (1 MHz, 1.5 MPa peak negative pressure, 3 sec pulse interval, 1000-5000 cycles) with and without low dose tPa (2.5 μg/ml) during measurement of upstream pressure to assess SRP efficacy (n = 3-7). Lytic rate (rate of pressure drop in the first 4 min) and lytic index (1/area under pressure-time curve) quantified SRP efficacy. Results: In whole blood, lytic rate was 2.6 ± 1.5 mmHg/min at 1000 cycles US+MB increasing to 7.3 ± 3.2 mmHg/min at 5000 cycles US+MB (p<0.01) without tPa. The lytic index was similar for tPa only (2.0 ± 0.5) x 10-3 mmHg-1.min-1 and 5000 cycles US + MB without tPa (2.3 ± 0.5) x 10-3 mmHg-1.min-1 (p=0.5) but increased to (3.6 ± 0.8) x 10-3 mmHg-1.min-1 (p<0.01) for 5000 cycles US+MB+tPa, indicating an additive effect of tPa with US + MB therapy (Fig 1). Conclusions: In whole blood, US + MB therapy restored microvascular perfusion. Similarly to our previous findings with PBS perfusate, SRP efficacy varied with cycle length in the presence of MB. The addition of tPa increased SRP efficacy in blood, suggesting a potential additive effect of low dose tPa and US + MB therapy in vivo . ![][1] [1]: /embed/graphic-1.gif
Alzheimer Disease Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers Moderate Baseline Differences and Predict Longitudinal Change in Attentional Control and Episodic Memory Composites in the Adult Children Study

Cognitive measures that are sensitive to biological markers of Alzheimer disease (AD) pathology are needed to (a) facilitate preclinical staging, (b) identify individuals who are at the highest risk for developing clinical symptoms, and (c) serve as endpoints for evaluating the efficacy of interventions. The present study assesses the utility of two cognitive composite scores of attentional control and episodic memory as markers for preclinical AD pathology in a group of cognitively normal older adults (N = 238), as part of the Adult Children Study. All participants were given a baseline cognitive assessment and follow-up assessments every 3 years over an 8-year period, as well as a lumbar puncture within 2 years of the initial assessment to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and amyloid tracer Pittsburgh compound-B scan for amyloid imaging. Results indicated that attentional control was correlated with levels of Aβ42 at the initial assessment whereas episodic memory was not. Longitudinally, individuals with high CSF tau exhibited a decline in both attention and episodic memory over the course of the study. These results indicate that measures of attentional control and episodic memory can be used to evaluate cognitive decline in preclinical AD and provide support that CSF tau may be a key mechanism driving longitudinal cognitive change.
The dead donor rule, voluntary active euthanasia, and capital punishment.

We argue that the dead donor rule, which states that multiple vital organs should only be taken from dead patients, is justified neither in principle nor in practice. We use a thought experiment and a guiding assumption in the literature about the justification of moral principles to undermine the theoretical justification for the rule. We then offer two real world analogues to this thought experiment, voluntary active euthanasia and capital punishment, and argue that the moral permissibility of terminating any patient through the removal of vital organs cannot turn on whether or not the practice violates the dead donor rule. Next, we consider practical justifications for the dead donor rule. Specifically, we consider whether there are compelling reasons to promulgate the rule even though its corresponding moral principle is not theoretically justified. We argue that there are no such reasons. In fact, we argue that promulgating the rule may actually decrease public trust in organ procurement procedures and medical institutions generally – even in states that do not permit capital punishment or voluntary active euthanasia. Finally, we examine our case against the dead donor rule in the light of common arguments for it. We find that these arguments are often misplaced – they do not support the dead donor rule. Instead, they support the quite different rule that patients should not be killed for their vital organs.
Growth of a thrombosed giant vertebral artery aneurysm after parent artery occlusion.

We report a case of a patient with a vertebral artery giant aneurysm, which was treated by parent artery occlusion of the vertebral artery, resulting in thrombosis of the aneurysm. In spite of thrombosis of the aneurysm and the parent artery, the aneurysm continued to grow
Design and control of modular multilevel alternate arm converter (AAC) with Zero Current Switching of director switches

Alternate Arm Converter (AAC) is considered as a new breed of hybrid multilevel voltage source converters. In this paper, modeling, design and control of the Alternate Arm Converter (AAC) are presented and operation principles of the AAC is discussed. One of the issues regarding to the AAC is the switching between the upper and lower arms which provides hard switching of the so called Director Switches (DS) of the AAC and makes high voltage stress on the devices due to the fast di/dt changes of the current in the turn-off time of the DS. To eliminate the voltage spike, Zero Current Switching (ZCS) operation of the director switches is presented. Moreover, the mathematical analysis is carried out to investigate on the capacitor voltage waveforms in different load power factors and the essence of having overlap time between upper and lower arm modules for balancing of the energy between the arm modules are described. To find out the advantages and disadvantages of the AAC comparing to its counterpart Half-Bridge Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC), the design analysis and comparison have been done for a specific case study. The simulation analysis has been carried out using Simulink/ MATLAB. Results show that the AAC can reduce the size of the arm inductor and the power cell capacitor as well as it has quite smaller semiconductor losses; however, the relatively high power losses of the director switches will be the main issue.
The Obama Trigger: Presidential Approval and Tea Party Membership

Objective This article utilizes national polling data to identify factors driving Tea Party membership. Methods First, in order to clearly define the Tea Party movement, the researchers will report Tea Party demographics drawn from the Blair-Rockefeller Poll, which includes a national sample of 3,406 respondents. Second, the researchers will create a logit model to predict Tea Party membership. Results In addition to party identification and ideology, Tea Party membership (10.6 percent of the sample) is impacted both by fiscally conservative policy preferences and by presidential approval. To a lesser degree, age and a belief in biblical literalism are also significant indicators in the model. Conclusions The Tea Party is a distinct entity from the Republican Party and is triggered, not only by current economic attitudes, but, specifically, by opposition to President Obama.
Decarboxylation to tyramine: An important route of tyrosine metabolism in dogs with experimental hepatic encephalopathy

Abstract Tyrosine metabolism via decarboxylation to tyramine was evaluated in dogs with functional end-to-side portacaval shunt. It was found that the endogenous plasma levels of both tyrosine and tyramine increased steadily after the construction of the shunt. These elevations became more pronounced when the dogs manifested symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy. In encephalopathic dogs, average endogenous plasma tyrosine and tyramine concentrations were 110.1 μmoles per liter and 7.6 ng per ml as compared to 55.4 and 1.2 in control dogs, respectively. The pattern of plasma concentrations of tyrosine and tyramine after an oral dose of l-tyrosine (50 mg per kg) was also investigated in control and shunted dogs. There was a progressive rise in peak levels of tyramine (to about 50-fold increase, at 6 weeks) after the construction of the shunt, as compared to levels obtained in pre- and at 1 and 4 weeks postoperatively (70.6 versus 1.20, 3.9, and 8.11 ng per ml). Similar observations were made with levels of plasma tyrosine. Six weeks after portacaval shunt, mean peak levels of plasma tyrosine, achieved at 5 hr after dose administration, were 450 as compared to 85 μmoles per liter obtained in preshunted dogs. These studies demonstrated a correlation between abnormalities in tyrosine metabolism and postshunt hepatic encephalopathy.
LIFE CYCLE EVENTS IN 15TH CENTURY FLORENCE: RECORDS OF THE MONTE DELLE DOTI

Records of a dowry investment fund operated by the city of Florence, Italy from 1425-1545 contain information on life cycle events of about 32,000 girls. This information includes date of birth, date and amount of investment, and date of dowry payment or death. In the present study, the first of 19 volumes of these records were used to compute death rates and payment rates (an approximation of marriage rates) and to analyze these rates according to age, time, and socioeconomic status. Usable records were obtained for 1631 girls. There were 315 deaths; death rates per 1000 person-years were 38, 17, 11, 16, and 19 for ages less than 5, 5-9, 10-14, 15-19, and 20+, respectively. Compared to previous and succeeding years, death rates increased 5-10 times in 1437-1438 and 1449-1450, years in which epidemics have been recorded. During these periods of epidemics, death rates were relatively low in the winter months. Death rate were made for 1274 girls. About three-fourths of these payments were made by age 20. Rate of payment increased with amount of investment. Proportionally, births were least frequent during December and January, indicating a deficit of conceptions around the time of Lent.
The Dead Must be Fed: Symbolic Meanings of the Shellmounds of the San Francisco Bay Area

Long viewed as ‘kitchen middens’, the shellmounds of the San Francisco Bay Area have -provided archaeologists of coastal California insight into the subsistence and ecology of precontact native groups. In this article, the authors develop a framework for understanding the cultural significance of these shellmounds which regards them as intentional cultural features, incorporates social context, and builds on earlier subsistence-focused studies of the shellmounds in order to better appreciate the meaning of the numerous human remains interred therein. A structural analysis is then used to show that the concepts of food and ancestors joined together at shellmounds, so much so that ritual attention to the ancestors was very likely regarded as essential to ensuring a continuing supply of food.
A Sequential Circuit for Algebraic Statement Translation

One component of a computer for direct execution of an algebraic language is a circuit which translates algebraic statements into control signals to activate appropriate data access, storage and arithmetic cycles. The state diagram for a simplified version of such a circuit is given and explained. A modification of the Mealy sequential circuit model is utilized to develop a circuit design technique which is simple to use even for circuits with large numbers of states. This technique is demonstrated by design of the algebraic translator circuit, which has 11 states, 5 inputs and 15 outputs.
AlInP benchmarks for growth of AlGaInP compounds by organometallic vapor-phase epitaxy

Abstract We have demonstrated that source material and growth system purity can be successfully evaluated by characterizing AlInP samples grown by organometallic vapor-phase epitaxy with photocurrent versus voltage measurements in an electrochemical cell. The samples can be grown and characterized in about 1 h, making them well-suited for system benchmarks. Zn-doped AlInP has the greatest sensitivity for O contamination, a recurring problem in the growth of AlGaInP alloys. High O concentrations in the Zn-doped benchmarks cause the photoresponse to fall dramatically. Secondary ion mass spectrometry data are consistent with compensation of Zn acceptor states by O donor-like trap states. Photocurrents of Si-doped and Se-doped AlInP are less sensitive to the O contamination, and the behavior of these n-type samples suggests that multiple energy states can be associated with the O impurities and dopant atoms. The benchmarks have been used to identify O contamination in trimethyl indium and phosphine and to evaluate new growth systems. Application of the benchmark to growth of GaInP solar cells with AlInP window layers is also discussed.
The chromatographic properties of polyethylene and polypropylene

Abstract The chromatographic properties of polyolefin molding powders have been determined. Polyethylene molding powders, both high- and low-density, appear to be useless. Uncoated polypropylene on the other hand appears to separate organic compounds from one another by a gas-liquid partition mechanism. The uncoated polypropylene columns are very good for trace water analysis in organic compounds. Coated polypropylene is useful for some separations. Theoretical considerations of the separations are discussed.
A central role for CD95 (Fas) in T-cell reactivity after injury.

Abstract Background: Recent findings indicate that severe injury primes the immune system for an enhanced and lethal proinflammatory cytokine response against bacterial-derived superantigens. This study asked whether this response to injury involves the CD95 (Fas) signaling pathway. Methods: To assess superantigen-mediated mortality, wild-type (WT) C57BL/6 and Fas-deficient C57BL/6 lpr (-/-) (lpr) mice underwent burn or sham injury and were challenged 2 hours later with staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB). Spleen cells from sham and burn WT or lpr mice were stimulated in vitro with SEB to assess injury effects on IL-2, TNF-α, and IFN-γ production. Results: Lpr burn mice survived the SEB challenge (100% survival), while WT burn mice showed a high mortality (17% survival, P
Childhood neurological morbidity and its association with gestational age, intrauterine growth retardation and perinatal stress.

Summary Data from 7-year-old children (n=5363) enrolled prena-tally during the 1960s in the Boston sector of the National Collaborative Perinatal Project (NCPP) have been used to study the associations of abnormal neurological findings at 7 years of age with gestational age, intrauterine growth-retardation (IUGR) and hypoxia-related perinatal stress. Among infants without perinatal stress, pre-term infants were at higher risk of abnormal neurological findings at 7 years than were term and post-term infants. IUGR infants, in the absence of stress, were not at any increased risk relative to non-IUGR infants. The odds ratio associated with perinatal stress increased with gestational age and was greater in the IUGR than in the non-IUGR infants.
Amiodarone-Associated Pulmonary Fibrosis: Evidence of an Immunologically Mediated Mechanism

A case of pulmonary fibrosis attributed to amiodarone was studied immunologically and morphologically. A specific antibody of the IgG class was identified in the serum of this patient which reacted with the patient's own lung tissue. The immunoglobulin did not react with normal lung tissue nor was there evidence of reaction with lung tissue from patients with pulmonary fibrosis but without a history of amiodarone therapy. The patient probably developed a humoral antibody response to a lung-amiodarone complex with the amiodarone acting as a hapten which bound in vivo to the lung tissue. The subsequent antibody-antigen reaction stimulated a proliferation of pulmonary fibroblasts and probably enhanced the fibro-collagen deposition in the lung.
The global configuration of the heliosheath inferred from recent voyager 1 observations

Recent observations from Voyager 1 in the nose region of the heliosheath, an area created by the motion of the Sun through the local interstellar medium, have revealed that: (1) beyond ∼113 AU from the Sun, the anisotropy of low-energy ions becomes very small in all directions, which has been interpreted as indicating that the solar wind flow speed has decreased to near zero; (2) at ∼120 AU, anomalous cosmic rays (ACRs) are accelerated to their highest energies; and (3) at ∼122 AU, there is a precipitous decrease both in ACRs and in termination shock particles (TSPs) that are convected downstream from the termination shock. In this paper, the low-energy anisotropy observations are interpreted as implying, not that the solar wind flow speed has decreased to near zero, but rather that the solar wind flow is closely aligned with the magnetic field direction, which is observed to be in the azimuthal direction. A simple model for the heliosheath is then constructed, based on the anisotropy observations and the observational evidence that the dominant pressure is contained in pickup ions, TSPs, and ACRs. The model predicts that there are jets of supersonic and super-Alfvenic solar wind flowing along the flanks ofmore » the heliosheath, stretching and opening the heliosheath magnetic field into the interstellar medium. TSPs and ACRs that are accelerated in the nose region can easily escape along the magnetic field in the open region of the heliosheath, resulting in the precipitous decrease in the intensity of TSPs and ACRs.« less
Liberation of aldehydes from alk-1-enyl glyceryl ethers by acid hydrolysis.

Labeled alk-1-enyl glyceryl ethers were used in conjunction with thin layer chromatography to study the liberation of aldehydes from alk-1-enyl glyceryl ethers by two acid hydrolysis procedures. Both methods gave similar results, but neither liberated the aldehydes quantitatively. Only 75–85% of the alk-1-enyl glyceryl ether radioactivity was liberated as free aldehydes. Several nonaldehyde products were detected and one appeared to be a cyclic acetal.