cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The role of orography in the dynamics of storm tracks

Abstract This paper investigates the role of the Northern Hemispheric orography in the maintenance of the winter storm tracks with a dry balance three-layer hemispheric model. First, the zonal winter-mean flow in 1982–83, together with the corresponding orographically induced model planetary wave field, is shown to have comparable linear instability properties as the total observed winter mean flow. Then, the nonlinear version of this model is shown to be capable of simulating the Pacific and Atlantic storm tracks with considerable realism. The position of the Pacific storm track is slightly off and the intensity of the two model storm tracks is about 70% of the observed. While the localized baroclinic regions tend to be neutralized by the eddies in the model, they are sufficiently reestablished by the interaction between the slowly varying zonal flow and the Tibetan Plateau and the Rockies to maintain the storm tracks. Moist dynamics is therefore not believed to be essential for the existence of storm tr...
Methodology from chaos in IC implementation

Algorithms and tools used for IC implementation do not show deterministic and predictable behaviors with input parameter changes. Due to suboptimality and inaccuracy of underlying heuristics and models in EDA tools, overdesign using tighter constraints does not always result in better final design quality. Moreover, negligibly small input parameter changes can result in substantially different design outcomes. In this paper, we assess the nature of ‘chaotic’ behavior in IC implementation tools via experimental analyses, and we determine a methodology to exploit such behavior based on the ‘multi-run’ and ‘multi-start’ sampling concepts proposed in [2]. We also suggest the number of sampling trials that yields more predictably good solutions; this allows us to improve quality of design without any manual analysis or manipulation, without changing any existing tool flows, and without unnecessary expenditure of valuable computing resources.
On the dimension of objects and categories II. Finite ordered sets

In this paper we consider the problem of finding the global dimension of the functor category 6F‘ where Cn is an Abelian category and 17 is a finite partially-ordered set. Some advance has-been made in this direction since the writing of [11, Chapter IX], and in particular the condition that LY have enough projectives has been eliminated. Nevertheless, a complete solution to the problem is still lacking. In order to understand the present treatment, the reader should know the basic theory of adjdint functors and the Ext functor as found, for example, in [ZZ, Chapters V and VII], and he must also have read Section 1 of [Z2]. In Section 5 we make a brief review of the notion of proper (h.f.) classes of exact sequences, and we shall indicate how our previous results can be generalized to the relative situation. The final section contains a discussion of functors which preserve Ext. It is unrelated to the work on global dimension. Our notation and terminology will be as in [12]. In particular, CPL and &’ will always denote Abelian categories, and the word “coadjoint” will be used in place of “left adjoint.”
Standing performance of persons with paraplegia

This study measures standing stability of four individuals with paraplegia using knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs) with a center-of-force monitoring platform as compared with similar data from 10 neurologically healthy subjects. Both groups were compared under conditions of quiet standing with eyes open and closed and with hands on and off parallel bars. Individuals with paraplegia were also tested under similar conditions with the ankles of their KAFOs mechanically unlocked and with bilateral functional neuromuscular stimulation of the quadriceps muscles. Sway path, mean amplitude, and mean frequency were measured for each subject. We found that postural stability in paraplegic individuals using KAFOs compared favorably with the control group under conditions of eyes open and closed with hands on parallel bars; however, visual information was much more important for paraplegic individuals during quiet stance. Unlocking the ankles of the KAFOs resulted in an increase in swap path and mean frequency. Functional muscular stimulation of the quadriceps muscles resulted in standing stability slightly less than with KAFOs. Although KAFOs may not be the ideal assistive device for various reasons, postural stability appears reasonable, and other proposed orthoses must be comparable in order to be considered as an alternative.
Empirical regression models for weather data measured in Kuwait during the years 1985, 1986, and 1987☆

Monthly average daily measurements over a three-year period (1985–1987) for eight weather parameters are reported. The computed three-year averages of total yearly global radiation, diffuse radiation, hemispherical global infrared radiation, and global UV radiation were 1,939.08, 696.82, 3,144.30, and 87.78 kWh/m2, respectively. Further, employing least-squares linear regression analysis, empirical fits expressing the monthly average daily measurements as a function of month of the year were developed for seven weather parameters.
A multimode thermo-optic beam steering switch

Thermooptic switches are viable options for rapidly and reliably switching and routing optical signals in planar lightwave circuits. We present modeling and fabrication of a thermooptic switch made of the polymer SU-8, an epoxy resin commonly used as a MEMS structural material. SU-8 is a good candidate material for use in planar waveguides due to its high refractive index, good transmission properties in the visible and infrared, and excellent thermal and mechanical stability. Furthermore, it has great advantages in fabrication since it is used as a negative photoresist, and so can be patterned directly using photolithography. Light is guided by a refractive index gradient generated by embedded MEMS microheaters, which activate the thermal nonlinearity of the polymer. The thermooptic change in refractive index imparts an inhomogeneous phase shift to the beam in the waveguide, which guides the input into one of two or more outputs. The switch design and operation parameters have been optimized using simulations of the thermal profile using finite element modeling and of the optical propagation using the beam propagation method.
The effects of triamcinolone acetonide on the voice.

With the exception of the pioneering work by Damste in the mid 1960’s and early '70’s, no long term quantitative research on voice changes subsequent to drug therapy has been reported. This study ...
Scaling theories for polymers with general interactions

Abstract The validity of scaling theories for polymer solutions which interact via a general pairwise segment-segment interaction is examined. Kosmas and Freed have shown that scaling holds for long chains with interactions which are restricted so that the integrated strength over all space of the interaction potential is finite. This restriction omits a wide class of potentials, an example of which is the commonly-used Lennard Jones potential. We show that this restriction may be relaxed. Our result is that scaling behavior is valid for long chains which interact via potentials for which the Fourier transform of the Mayer f function exists. The corrections to scaling due to the self-interaction term in the partition function are also discussed.
Generalized Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida theory of oscillatory exchange coupling in magnetic multilayers.

In Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida (RKKY) perturbation theories of magnetic multilayers, realistic energy bands are used to obtain the nesting required for oscillatory behavior, but the Bloch functions are generally approximated by plane waves. To account for the observed long-period oscillations of the exchange coupling, we present a generalized RKKY theory, which includes both the Bloch character of the wave functions and the boundary scattering at the film edges. In contrast to existing theories, these two effects lead to long-period oscillations, that are robust with regard to roughness of the spin distribution and to oscillation amplitudes that sharply increase with the localized nature of the Bloch functions, in agreement with experiment.
An improved cannula for experimental gastrointestinal fistulas.

Summary We have described a three-piece gastroin-testinal cannula which is virtually foolproof and can be adapted for various experimental usage in the gastrointestinal tract where collection of fluid is desired. It can be easily made by any machine shop.
Feature ranking using Gini index, scatter ratios, and nonlinear SVM RFE

This paper introduces three feature ranking (FR) methods using seven classification benchmarks created by Exhaustive Search (ES) which selected the best feature subsets. Next, three different FR approaches are compared and ranked in respect to the top five best feature subsets for each data set obtained by ES. The results show that Gini index (GI) outperforms scatter ratios for multi-class problems on average. However, for binary classification, scatter ratios shows better performance. Nonlinear support vector machines for recursive feature elimination (NL SVM RFE) was run on three binary benchmarks and it leads to rankings closest to ES on average over GI and scatter ratio methods.
A POISSON PROCESS APPROXIMATION FOR GENERALIZED K–S CONFIDENCE REG

One-sided confidence regions for continuous cumulative distribution functions are constructed using empirical cumulative distribution functions and the generalized Kolmogorov-Smirnov distance. The band width of such regions becomes narrower in the right or left tail of the distribution. To avoid tedious computation of confidence levels and critical values, an approximation based on the Poisson process is introduced. This aproximation provides a conservative confidence region; moreover, the approximation error decreases monotonically to 0 as sample size increases. Critical values necessary for implementation are given. Applications are made to the areas of risk analysis, investment modeling, reliability assessment, and analysis of fault tolerant systems.
Logical Methods in Security and Privacy

Computer security and privacy is concerned with the design, implementation, and analysis of mechanisms intended to guarantee that desired policies (or properties) hold in the presence of malicious adversaries. In this article some logical methods for reasoning about system security and for enforcing security and privacy policies are discussed.
Current Epidemiology and Management of Invasive Candidiasis in Infants

Invasive candidiasis (IC) is common in premature infants and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Although the incidence of IC in infants is decreasing, there is marked variability in number of cases by center and geographical region, and current methods for diagnosis are suboptimal. Nonabsorbable antifungals, probiotics, and systemic antifungals have been shown to decrease IC in select populations. Although empirical antifungal therapy may provide benefit to infants with IC, prediction of the disease is difficult. While available antifungal agents appear to be effective in the treatment of IC in infants, knowledge of the optimal type, dose, and duration of antifungal therapy is limited by the low number of available infant studies.
Bandlimits and coherent modulation filtering of non-stationary signals

Modulation filtering is a technique for filtering slowly-varying envelopes of frequency subbands of a non-stationary signal, ideally without affecting the signal's phase and fine-structure. Coherent modulation filtering is a potentially more effective subtype of such techniques where subband envelopes are determined through demodulation of the subband signal with a coherently detected subband carrier. In this paper we propose a coherent modulation filtering technique based on detecting the instantaneous frequency of a subband from its time-frequency representation. We show that coherent modulation filtering imposes a new bandlimiting constraint on the modulation product plus the ability to recover arbitrarily chosen envelopes and carriers from their modulation product. We show that a carrier estimate based on the time-varying spectral center-of-gravity satisfies the bandlimiting condition as well as Loughlin's previously derived bandlimiting constraint on the instantaneous frequency of carrier. These bandwidth constraints lead to effective and distortion-free modulation filters, offering new approaches for potential signal modification. The spectral center-of-gravity does not satisfy the condition on arbitrary recovery, however, which somewhat limits the flexibility of coherent modulation filtering. Demonstrations are provided with speech signals.
Prediction and interpretation of distributed neural activity with sparse models

We explore to what extent the combination of predictive and interpretable modeling can provide new insights for functional brain imaging. For this, we apply a recently introduced regularized regression technique, the Elastic Net, to the analysis of the PBAIC 2007 competition data. Elastic Net regression controls via one parameter the number of voxels in the resulting model, and via another the degree to which correlated voxels are included. We find that this method produces highly predictive models of fMRI data that provide evidence for the distributed nature of neural function. We also use the flexibility of Elastic Net to demonstrate that model robustness can be improved without compromising predictability, in turn revealing the importance of localized clusters of activity. Our findings highlight the functional significance of patterns of distributed clusters of localized activity, and underscore the importance of models that are both predictive and interpretable.
Glucoraphanin hydrolysis by microbiota in the rat cecum results in sulforaphane absorption

In the absence of the plant enzyme myrosinase, such as in cooked broccoli, glucoraphanin is considered to be hydrolyzed by bacteria in the lower gut to produce the bioactive isothiocyanate sulforaphane. Simulated digestion using US Pharmacopeia methods caused no loss of glucoraphanin, confirming that glucoraphanin is not destroyed by digestive enzymes during passage through the digestive tract and is able to reach the rat cecum intact. Introduction of glucoraphanin (150 μmol/kg BW) directly into the cecum resulted in appearance of isothiocyanates in the mesenteric plasma by 120 min. In contrast, introduction of sulforaphane (150 μmol/kg BW) directly into the cecum resulted in the appearance of isothiocyanates in the mesenteric plasma within 15 min. Plasma levels remained constant for over an hour. Anaerobic incubation ex vivo of cecal microbiota from male F344 rats with glucoraphanin resulted in very low levels of the hydrolytic metabolite erucin nitrile, showing that hydrolysis of glucosinolates is carried out by cecal microbiota, but metabolism ex vivo by microbiota did not reflect not reflect metabolism in situ. These data are the first to report direct evidence of hydrolysis of glucoraphanin to sulforaphane in the cecum of rats and to show that sulforaphane is able to cross the cecal enterocyte for systemic absorption.
An Unusual Application of a Usual Crosslinking Agent—Dyeing Trimethylolmelamine Pretreated Cotton Without Added Salt:

Traditional anionic dyeing of cotton requires large amounts of salt to assist dye sorption. This paper reports a method of using trimethylolmelamine (TMM), a com mon durable press finish, to treat cotton for dyeing. TMM pretreated cotton has re markably improved affinity for anionic dyes and no longer needs the assistance of salt in the dyebath. Furthermore, effluents from such processes contain much less dye than effluents from ordinary salt-assisted dyeings. This technology not only increases the efficiency of dyeing without salt, it also considerably decreases the burden of effluent treatment. By this method, cotton can also be dyed with acid dyes.
Assessing and Treating Pain in Hospices: Current State of Evidence-Based Practices

The aim of this study was to report on current provider evidence-based assessment and treatment practices for older adults with cancer in community-based hospice settings. Using the Cancer Pain Practices Index, a tool developed by the researchers to measure evidence-based pain management practices, patients received an average of 32% of those key evidence-based practices (EBPs) that were applicable to their situations. When examining individual practices, most of the patients had their pains assessed at admission using a valid pain scale (69.7%) and had primary components of a comprehensive assessment completed at admission (52.7%); most patients with admission reports of pain had an order for pain medication (83.5%). However, data revealed a number of practice gaps, including additional components of a comprehensive assessment completed within 48 hours of admission (0%); review of the pain treatment plan at each reassessment (35.7%); reassessment of moderate or greater pain (5.3%); consecutive pain reports of 5 or greater followed by increases in pain medication (15.8%); monitoring of analgesic-induced side effects (19.3%); initiation of a bowel regimen for patients with an opioid order (32.3%); and documentation of both nonpharmacological therapies (22.5%) and written pain management plans (0.6%). Findings highlight positive EBPs and areas for improving the translation of EBPs into practice. Data suggest that cancer pain is not being documented as consistently assessed, reassessed, or treated in a manner consistent with current EBP recommendations for older adults with cancer in community-based hospices.
Embolization Therapy in Pediatric Cardiology

Transcatheter embolization therapy has assumed an important role in the management of patients with congenital heart disease. A variety of embolization materials, most commonly steel coils, is available to treat or palliate patients with aortopulmonary collateral vessels or surgical shunts, arteriovenous malformations, and anomalous venovenous connections (common after surgical intervention for the univentricular heart). At many centers, coil occlusion has recently become the treatment of choice for patients with a restrictive patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). This article describes the materials and techniques of embolization therapy, as well as the common indications encountered in the practice of pediatric interventional cardiology.
Strategies for Effective Outsourcing

This chapter focuses on specific scenarios that could lead to more efficient and effective outsourcing agreements between institutions and businesses.
Mammalian Target of Rapamycin's Distinct Roles and Effectiveness in Promoting Compensatory Axonal Sprouting in the Injured CNS

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) functions as a master sensor of nutrients and energy, and controls protein translation and cell growth. Deletion of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) in adult CNS neurons promotes regeneration of injured axons in an mTOR-dependent manner. However, others have demonstrated mTOR-independent axon regeneration in different cell types, raising the question of how broadly mTOR regulates axonal regrowth across different systems. Here we define the role of mTOR in promoting collateral sprouting of spared axons, a key axonal remodeling mechanism by which functions are recovered after CNS injury. Using pharmacological inhibition, we demonstrate that mTOR is dispensable for the robust spontaneous sprouting of corticospinal tract axons seen after pyramidotomy in postnatal mice. In contrast, moderate spontaneous axonal sprouting and induced-sprouting seen under different conditions in young adult mice (i.e., PTEN deletion or degradation of chondroitin proteoglycans; CSPGs) are both reduced upon mTOR inhibition. In addition, to further determine the potency of mTOR in promoting sprouting responses, we coinactivate PTEN and CSPGs, and demonstrate that this combination leads to an additive increase in axonal sprouting compared with single treatments. Our findings reveal a developmental switch in mTOR dependency for inducing axonal sprouting, and indicate that PTEN deletion in adult neurons neither recapitulates the regrowth program of postnatal animals, nor is sufficient to completely overcome an inhibitory environment. Accordingly, exploiting mTOR levels by targeting PTEN combined with CSPG degradation represents a promising strategy to promote extensive axonal plasticity in adult mammals.
Experimental demonstration of simultaneous compensation of polarization mode dispersion and fiber nonlinearities by LDPC-coded turbo equalization

In recent years LDPC codes have gained significant interest in the area of optical communication systems due to their capacity-approaching performance, high coding gain and low decoding-complexity. We describe the construction principles of high-rate, high-girth, quasi-cyclic LDPC codes and present an LDPC-coded turbo equalization scheme suitable for simultaneous mitigation of multiple transmission impairments. The equalization scheme is based on the maximum a posteriori probability detection, based on Bahl Cocke Jelinek Raviv (BCJR) algorithm that employs the conditional density probability functions of the channel to calculate the initial log-likelihood ratios for the LDPC decoder. To optimize the code performance extrinsic information transfer charts are used. We then investigate and evaluate the performance of the proposed scheme in the presence of polarization mode dispersion (PMD), fiber nonlinearities and chromatic dispersion for 10 Giga symbols/s transmission system and various modulation formats including NRZ and polarization-multiplexed BPSK with both direct and coherent detection. LDPC codes of rates 0.8, 0.9 and 0.95 are evaluated. Experiments with and without chromatic dispersion compensation are conducted.
Ecogeographic distribution of secondary constituents in Parthenium (compositae)

Abstract Over 20 taxa of the genus Partenium (Compositae) representing four sections or five ecological groupings from throughout the Americas, were examined for sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids and alkaloids. The tropical thorn-forest, arborescent members (sect. Parthenichaeta) were found to contain three different sesquiterpene lactone types and derivatives of the flavonols; quercetin, kaempferol and quercetagetin. The desert shrubs were remarkable for their high production of methylated quercetagetin flavonols and alkaloids, but lacked any appreciable amounts of sesquiterpene lactones. The temperate, submontane perennials (sect. Bolophytum), contained lactones and flavonols in extremely low concentrations. The herbaceous annuals (sect. Argyrochaeta) contained pseudoguaianolides only and together with quercetin, and kaempferol O- glycosides . The herbaceous perennials contained twice as many lactones and flavonoids as the annuals. It is suggested that the ecogeographical distribution of secondary products in Parthenium is probably a result of adaptive responses to various physical and biotic factors (herbivore pressure) in the environment.
Recent Trends in the Study of Early Jewish Wisdom Literature: The Contribution of 4QInstruction and Other Qumran Texts

This essay reviews major trends in the study of the Qumran texts commonly identified as wisdom literature. Among these texts, 4QInstruction and the so-called book of Mysteries have received the most attention. These compositions are making a significant contribution to our understanding of the Jewish wisdom tradition during the late Second Temple period. A key achievement of recent scholarship on the Qumran wisdom literature is the recognition that Early Jewish sapiential texts could draw on traditions that have little to do with the older wisdom of Proverbs, including in particular apocalypticism and the Torah. The Dead Sea Scrolls illustrate that there is a wide range of diversity among the Early Jewish wisdom texts.
Regulation of Human IgE Synthesis

Allergic diseases result from the interaction with IgE bound to cell surface receptors. Therefore, rational therapeutic approaches to allergic diseases would be aimed at decreasing IgE and/or at blocking the binding of IgE to effector cells such as mast cells and monocytes. Our investigation of the mechanism of IgE synthesis in man shows that IgE synthesis by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) absolutely requires the presence of IL-4 and requires endogenous IL-6, because antibody to IL-6 inhibits IgE production completely. IgE synthesis requires T/B cell contact and involves interactions between B cell surface MHC Class II molecules and T cell surface receptors, as antibodies to both of these cell surface molecules inhibit IgE synthesis. Furthermore, alloreactive T cell clones which are unable to engage the B cell MHC Class II molecules fail to induce IgE synthesis in spite of their ability to secrete IL-4.Studies on the immunoglobulin sites that are involved in IgE binding to high affinity recepto...
Random response of a pipe containing fluid flow subjected to acoustic loading

An analytic approach is developed for beam type pipes subjected to random loadings. The influence of fluid velocity on the random response is investigated. The root-mean-square (rms) deflections and frequencies for different sound spectrum level values with both ends, either simply supported or clamped are considered. The required number of modes to achieve reasonable accuracy to evaluate rms deflections and strains is also studied. The prediction of fatigue life is then based on obtained rms stress. This analytical investigation will help to broaden the basic understanding of the role of fluid flow within structures subjected to acoustic loading.
Coherent potential theory of off-diagonal randommess: Binary alloy

Abstract The single-site coherent potential approximation (SS-CPA) for a disordered binary alloy is extended in a self-consistent manner to the case of off-diagonal randomness. The density of states for a bcc lattice is calculated in the split band limit for no correlation between diagonal and off-diagonal randomness and compared with the ordered and SS-CPA density of states.
The transfer of superfluid helium in space

Abstract The Superfluid Helium On-Orbit Transfer (SHOOT) Flight Demonstration waspart of the space shuttle STS-57 mission in June, 1993. The experiment objectives included: transfer of superfluid between two dewars m a low gravity environment at different flow rates; operation of two different liquid acquisition devices within the dewars; liquid/vapor phase separation for normal liquid helium as well as superfluid at varying venting rates; accurate mass gauging and flow metering; and autonomous control of the transfer process by an expert system aboard a computer on the shuttle. This paper summarizes the findings of the SHOOT experiment and the performance of individual components, with particular emphasis on the anomalous behavior of one of the phase separators.
Hydrodynamic fluctuations and the minimum shear viscosity of the dilute Fermi gas at unitarity

We study hydrodynamic fluctuations in a nonrelativistic fluid. We show that in three dimensions, fluctuations lead to a minimum in the shear viscosity to entropy density ratio $\ensuremath{\eta}/s$ as a function of the temperature. The minimum provides a bound on $\ensuremath{\eta}/s$ which is independent of the conjectured bound in string theory, $\ensuremath{\eta}/s\ensuremath{\ge}\ensuremath{\hbar}/(4\ensuremath{\pi}{k}_{B})$, where $s$ is the entropy density. For the dilute Fermi gas at unitarity, we find $\ensuremath{\eta}/s\ensuremath{\gtrsim}0.2\ensuremath{\hbar}$. This bound is not universal---it depends on the thermodynamic properties of the unitary Fermi gas and on empirical information about the range of validity of hydrodynamics. We also find that the viscous relaxation time of a hydrodynamic mode with frequency $\ensuremath{\omega}$ diverges as $1/\sqrt{\ensuremath{\omega}}$, and that the shear viscosity in two dimensions diverges as $\mathrm{ln}(1/\ensuremath{\omega})$.
Biochemical and immunological properties of different electrophoretic forms of juvenile hormone esterase from Trichoplusia ni (Hübner).

Abstract The two major electrophoretic forms (pI 5.5, 5.3) of juvenile hormone esterase were independently isolated from hemolymph of larval Trichoplusia ni. A simple and rapid preparation procedure of poly(ethylene glycol) precipitation, Sephadex gel filtration and chromatofocusing is described. Analytical isoelectric focusing showed only one peak of juvenile hormone esterase activity in the respective purified samples, whereas there were four (two major) such peaks in the hemolymph. The amino acid composition of the two forms was similar. The comparison of peptides obtained after protein fragmentation bycyanogen bromide showed that juvenile hormone esterases A and B were very similar, although definitely not identical, in amino acid sequence. The immunological comparisons of juvenile hormone esterases suggested that the number of polyclonal antibody binding sites on both forms was the same. There were no detected differences between immunoreactive properties of juvenile hormone esterase from the hemolymph of different stages of larval maturation. The influence of the active site of the enzyme on its antigenic properties was studied by immunocompetition. The inactive, heat-denatured juvenile hormone esterase can only partially protect against inhibition of its activity by the antibodies, whereas an organophosphate inhibitor which covalently binds to the catalytic center of the enzyme did not change the immunoreactive properties in comparison to active juvenile hormone esterase from hemolymph. These data show that heat-denatured juvenile hormone esterase has lost at least one or more epitopes, but the catalytic site of the enzyme is distinct from the epitopes.
Distal anastomotic intimal hyperplasia: biogenesis and etiology.

Anastomotic intimal hyperplasia occurred exclusively at the heel and the toe plus the floor of the distal end-to-side anastomosis of canine autologous femoro-femoral bypass ( n = 14) and not in the end-to-end carotid or femoral interposition graft ( n = 14). The occurrence of anastomotic intimal hyperplasia in the absence of compliance mismatch in an autologous bypass suggests that the geometry of the end-to-side anastomosis is primarily responsible for intimal hyperplasia formation. It is believed that because an end-to-side distal anastomosis is not a natural occurrence it is conducive to turbulent flow. The latter causes endothelial injury which in turn allows platelet growth factor to incite subendothelial myoblasts in extracellular matrix synthesis and intimal hyperplasia formation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) identify myofibroblasts and fibrocollagenous matrix as the dominant cellular and extracellular substances in anastomotic intimal hyperplasia.
Laparscopy improves outcomes for pediatric splenectomy

Abstract Background: Pediatric laparoscopic splenectomy is a relatively new surgical procedure with a limited number of reports comparing its outcomes to that of the open procedure. The authors have minimized the invasiveness of our procedure by using only three ports and have described the technique as well as compared it with the open method. Methods: A retrospective review of seven laparoscopic splenectomies (LS) using a three port technique were compared with seven open splenectomies (OS) performed for similar indications at a single children's hospital. Results: The average age in the LS group was 8.7 years compared with 8.9 years for OS, (P value not significant), and the average weights were also similar. The indications for splenectomy were hereditary spherocytosis, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, sickle cell anemia, and splenic cyst. All splenectomies were performed safely with an average estimated blood loss of 41 mL for LS and 34 mL for OS (P value not significant). Operative time averaged 147 minutes for LS and 86 minutes for OS (P Conclusions: Laparoscopic splenectomy currently is a safe procedure, offering better cosmesis, much less pain, and a shorter hospital stay compared with the traditional open procedure. The more sophisticated equipment and time needed to carry out the procedure led to a modestly increased hospital cost.
Hume on identity: A defense

Critique de l'analyse par T. Penelhum de la these de Hume sur l'identite personnelle. Hume voit une contradiction dans le fait de dire qu'un objet peut a la fois etre numeriquement identique et soumis au changement. Son argument porte en fait sur l'identite a travers le changement: toute attribution d'une persistance a un sujet est fausse.
The sheep heart: Coronary and conduction system anatomy with special reference to the presence of an os cordis

Each of the major coronary arteries of 25 fresh sheep hearts was injected with a different colored barium gelatin mass. Histologic sections were made of the AV node and His bundle in nine hearts. The blood supply to this region was traced radiographically, photographically and histologically. X-rays of the upper ventricular septum were taken before and after coronary injection to demonstrate an os cordis. The sinus node is always supplied by a branch of the right coronary artery. The crux of the heart, and subsequently the AV node, is always supplied by the circumflex artery. The unbranched His bundle, unusually long in sheep, receives a dual blood supply from both the anterior septal branches and the AV node artery. The proximal part of the left and right bundle branches is supplied by the anterior septal branches in the majority of hearts. Intercoronary anastomoses are present in the majority of hearts, particularly in the upper ventricular septum. An os cordis, deep in the atrial septum and directly adjacent to the AV node, was found in all 25 hearts. Occasionally, a second bone was found in the anterior part of the left atrioventricular ring.
Excerpts from An Artist's Thought Book: Intriguing Thoughts about the Artistic Process

An Artist's Thought Book: Intriguing Thoughts About the Artistic Process is a series of aphorisms by Dr. Richard Bargdill, associate professor of psychology at St. Francis University. These original aphorisms are 1- or 2-sentence thoughts that are roughly categorized into 5 book chapters concerning: what it means to be an artist, a poet, a singer, and a painter, as well as thoughts on the nature of creativity. The purpose of an aphorism is to say enough to provoke thoughts in the reader without completely spelling out what the author specifically means. The beauty of writing in the aphoristic style is that different people can interpret the same sentence in many ways. Here, the author has picked a few of his favorite aphorisms from each of the chapters. Bargdill is an award-winning poet and artist who was most recently recognized for his first place sculpture at the prestigious 2009 Pennsylvania State art show: Art of the State. To learn more about the artist, please visit his Web site at www.poetryartand...
Role of vasopressin in the treatment of anaphylactic shock in a child undergoing surgery for congenital heart disease: a case report

The incidence of anaphylactic reactions during anesthesia is between 1:5000 and 1:25000 and it is one of the few causes of mortality directly related to general anesthesia. The most important requirements in the treatment of this clinical condition are early diagnosis and maintenance of vital organ perfusion. Epinephrine administration is generally considered as the first line treatment of anaphylactic reactions. However, recently, new pharmacological approaches have been described in the treatment of different forms of vasoplegic shock. We describe the case of a child who was undergoing surgery for ventricular septal defect, with an anaphylactic reaction to heparin that was refractory to epinephrine infusion and was effectively treated by low dose vasopressin infusion. In case of anaphylactic shock, continuous infusion of low-dose vasopressin might be considered after inadequate response to epinephrine, fluid resuscitation and corticosteroid administration.
Photoionization of DABCO via high vibrational levels of the S1 state

Abstract The photoelectron spectrum following resonant two-photon ionization of 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) was recorded with the laser tuned to the origin band of the S 2 ←S 0 transition. The spectrum is consistent with the rapid radiationless transition from the S 2 state into high vibrational levels of the S 1 state, as proposed by Smith et al. [J. Phys. Chem. 88 (1984) 2250]. Features in the double-resonance spectrum of Smith et al. that were previously assigned to photoionization of S(−) 3s(−) 1 A ″ 2 vibrational levels populated by a radiationless transition from the S 2 state are reinterpreted, with the conclusion that the S(−) state has yet to be observed.
Thermodynamics of two-dimensional helium films on textured substrates

Effects of substrate potential and geometry on the thermodynamics of physisorbed, lowdensity, submonolayer helium films are investigated using a tight-binding formalism, a quantum virial expansion, and a lattice version of potential scattering theory. Calculations for a two-parameter triangular-lattice model are presented which exhibit systematic trends in the specific heat that are in qualitative agreement with presently available experimental data.
Fashionable Pride: An Ageless Concern

Because of the large number of young men who had either been killed in the Civil War, left the region seeking a new beginning in the West, or moved to more prosperous metropolitan centers on the East coast, rural life in 19th century New England was primarily matriarchal or female-centered. As evidenced in the works of the "local color" writers--Harriet Beecher Stowe, Rose Terry Cooke, Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward, Sarah Orne Jewett, and Mary E. Wilkins Freeman--the women who remained were, for the most part, poor, elderly, and impoverished, living in a land where, for them, scarcity was the norm. They were what has come to be known as the "rural poor." Nonetheless, even though most of the pleasures in life were beyond their reach, these New England women took great pride in what little they had and put great stock in a particular dress, bonnet, or tea service that enabled them to maintain a sense of dignity and decorum in the face of great adversity. Continuing to dress well, serving an elegant tea, wearing the proper bonnet, allowed them to live their lives with their heads held high and to carry on as the strong, indomitable women they were.
TIMELY DELIVERY OF BIOLOGICAL THERAPY AFTER CYTOREDUCTIVE NEPHRECTOMY IN CAREFULLY SELECTED PATIENTS WITH METASTATIC RENAL CELL CARCINOMA

AbstractPurpose: We determine whether cytoreductive surgery delays or precludes the administration of systemic biological therapy in patients with previously untreated metastatic renal cell carcinoma.Materials and Methods: We evaluated 79 patients 22 to 73 years old with untreated renal cell carcinoma for possible cytoreductive surgery before the administration of systemic biological therapy. Based on performance status, overall disease burden and subjective clinical assessment 13 patients were referred for initial systemic biological therapy and 66 underwent cytoreductive surgery as initial treatment. We evaluated patient ability to receive postoperative biological therapy, time to therapy, surgical complications and mortality.Results: Cytoreductive surgery had a minimal impact on the administration of timely systemic biological therapy in these carefully selected patients. Of the 66 patients 54 (82%) received postoperative systemic biological therapy beginning a median of 40 days after nephrectomy. Two ...
An Updated Protocol to Detect Invalid Entries in an Online Survey of Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM): How Do Valid and Invalid Submissions Compare?

Researchers use protocols to screen for suspicious survey submissions in online studies. We evaluated how well a de-duplication and cross-validation process detected invalid entries. Data were from the Sexually Explicit Media Study, an Internet-based HIV prevention survey of men who have sex with men. Using our protocol, 146 (11.6 %) of 1254 entries were identified as invalid. Most indicated changes to the screening questionnaire to gain entry (n = 109, 74.7 %), matched other submissions’ payment profiles (n = 56, 41.8 %), or featured an IP address that was recorded previously (n = 43, 29.5 %). We found few demographic or behavioral differences between valid and invalid samples, however. Invalid submissions had lower odds of reporting HIV testing in the past year (OR 0.63), and higher odds of requesting no payment compared to check payments (OR 2.75). Thus, rates of HIV testing would have been underestimated if invalid submissions had not been removed, and payment may not be the only incentive for invalid participation.
Deficient Ganglioside Biosynthesis: a novel human sphingolipidosis

An unusual lipid storage disese is chracterized by the accumulation of hematoside (Gms3) in the patient's liver and brain. In contrast to the other sphingoliidoses, the accumulation of Gm3 is not the result of a defective catabolic reaction, but is the first disorder caused by deficiency in ganglioside biosynthesis to be described in man.
Is frequency of family meals associated with parental encouragement of healthy eating among ethnically diverse eighth graders

Objective The purpose of the present study was to explore the relationship between family meals and parental encouragement of healthy eating overall and by ethnicity. Design Family meal frequency was measured with one item asking how many times in the past 7 d all or most of the family ate a meal together, which was then categorized to represent three levels of family meals (≤2 times, 3–6 times and ≥7 times). Parental encouragement of healthy eating assessed how often parents encouraged the student to eat fruits and vegetables, drink water, eat wholegrain bread, eat breakfast and drink low-fat milk (never to always). An overall scale of parental encouragement of healthy eating was created. Mixed-effect regression analyses were run controlling for gender, ethnicity, age and socio-economic status. Moderation by ethnicity was explored. Setting Middle schools. Subjects Participants included 2895 US eighth grade students participating in the Central Texas CATCH (Coordinated Approach To Child Health) Middle School Project (mean age 13·9 years; 24·5 % White, 52·7 % Hispanic, 13·0 % African-American, 9·8 % Other; 51·6 % female). Results Eating more family meals was significantly associated with having parents who encouraged healthy eating behaviours (P for trend <0·001). The number of family meals was positively associated with encouragement of each of the healthy eating behaviours (P for trend <0·0001). There were no differences in the relationships by ethnicity of the students. Conclusions Families who eat together are more likely to encourage healthy eating in general. Interventions which promote family meals may include tips for parents to increase discussions about healthy eating.
Anoctamin-1 Cl− Channels in Nociception: Activation by an N-Aroylaminothiazole and Capsaicin and Inhibition by T16A[inh]-A01

Anoctamin 1 (ANO1 or TMEM16A) Ca2+-gated Cl− channels of nociceptor neurons are emerging as important molecular components of peripheral pain transduction. At physiological intracellular Cl− concentrations ([Cl−]i) sensory neuronal Cl− channels are excitatory. The ability of sensory neuronal ANO1 to trigger action potentials and subsequent nocifensive (pain) responses were examined by direct activation with an N-aroylaminothiazole. ANO1 channels are also activated by intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) from sensory neuronal TRPV1 (transient-receptor-potential vallinoid 1) ion channels and other noxicant receptors. Thus, sensory neuronal ANO1 can facilitate TRPV1 triggering of action potentials, resulting in enhanced nociception. This was investigated by reducing ANO1 facilitation of TRPV1 effects with: (1) T16A[inh]-A01 ANO1-inhibitor reagent at physiological [Cl−]i and (2) by lowering sensory neuronal [Cl−]i to switch ANO1 to be inhibitory. ANO1 effects on action potential firing of mouse dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons in vitro and mouse nocifensive behaviors in vivo were examined with an N-aroylaminothiazole ANO1-activator (E-act), a TRPV1-activator (capsaicin) and an ANO1-inhibitor (T16A[inh]-A01). At physiological [Cl−]i (40 mM), E-act (10 µM) increased current sizes (in voltage-clamp) and action potential firing (in current-clamp) recorded in DRG neurons using whole-cell electrophysiology. To not disrupt TRPV1 carried-Ca2+ activation of ANO1 in DRG neurons, ANO1 modulation of capsaicin-induced action potentials was measured by perforated-patch (Amphotericin–B) current-clamp technique. Subsequently, at physiological [Cl−]i, capsaicin (15 µM)-induced action potential firing was diminished by co-application with T16A[inh]-A01 (20 µM). Under conditions of low [Cl−]i (10 mM), ANO1 actions were reversed. Specifically, E-act did not trigger action potentials; however, capsaicin-induced action potential firing was inhibited by co-application of E-act, but was unaffected by co-application of T16A[inh]-A01. Nocifensive responses of mice hind paws were dramatically induced by subcutaneous injections of E-act (5 mM) or capsaicin (50 µM). The nocifensive responses were attenuated by co-injection with T16A[inh]-A01 (1.3 mM). An ANO1-activator (E-act) induced [Cl−]i-dependent sensory neuronal action potentials and mouse nocifensive behaviors; thus, direct ANO1 activation can induce pain perception. ANO1-inhibition attenuated capsaicin-triggering of action potentials and capsaicin-induced nocifensive behaviors. These results indicate ANO1 channels are involved with TRPV1 actions in sensory neurons and inhibition of ANO1 could be a novel means of inducing analgesia.
Modeling and optimization of rotational C-arm stereoscopic X-ray angiography

Stereoscopy can be an effective method for obtaining three-dimensional (3-D) spatial information from two-dimensional (2-D) projection X-ray images, without the need for tomographic reconstruction. This much-needed information is missed in many X-ray diagnostic and interventional procedures, such as the treatment of vascular aneurysms. Fast C-arm X-ray systems can obtain multiple angle sequences of stereoscopic image pairs from a single contrast injection and a single breath hold. To advance this solution, the authors developed a model of stereo angiography, performed perception experiments and related results to optimal acquisition. The model described horizontal disparity for the C-arm geometry that agreed very well with measurements from a geometric phantom. The perceptual accommodation-convergence conflict and geometry limited the effective stereoscopic field of view (SFOV). For a typical large image intensifier system, it was 28 cm/spl times/31 cm at the center of rotation (COR). In the model, blurring from finite focal-spot size and C-arm motion reduced depth resolution on the digital display. Near the COR, the predicted depth resolution was 3-11 mm for a viewing angle of 7/spl deg/, which agreed favorably with results from recently published studies. The model also described how acquisition parameters affected spatial warping of curves of equal apparent depth. Pincushioning and the difference between the acquisition and display geometry were found to introduce additional distortions to stereo displays. Preference studies on X-ray angiograms indicated that the ideal viewing angle should be small (1-2/spl deg/), which agreed with some previously published work. Perceptual studies indicated that stereo angiograms should have high artery contrast and that digital processing to increase contrast improved stereopsis. Digital subtraction angiograms, with different motion errors between the left and right-eye views, gave artifacts that confused stereopsis. The addition of background to subtracted images reduced this effect and provided other features for improved depth perception. Using the modeling results and typical clinical angiography requirements, the authors recommend acquisition protocols and engineering specifications that are achievable on current high-end systems.