cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lipoblastoma of the Labia: A Case Report

Abstract Background Vulvar masses are rare in prepubertal girls. Lipoblastomas are benign adipose tumors that arise from embryonic white fat and occur almost exclusively in infants and children. Case An 18-month-old female infant presented with a 2-cm mobile mass in the left labia majora. Imaging and examination revealed normal prepubertal gynecologic structures and a 4.5 cm fatty mass in the left labia. Surgical excision revealed a 3.8 cm well circumscribed adipose tissue mass consistent with maturing lipoblastoma on microscopic examination. Cytogenetic analysis revealed 79,XXX [7]/46,XX[13], a near-triploid clone. Summary and Conclusion The differential diagnosis of vulvar masses in children should include lipoblastoma. Although preoperative imaging has limited ability to differentiate lipomatous tumors, magnetic resonance imaging is the modality of choice for evaluating tumor extension and for surgical planning. Treatment is complete surgical excision with close follow-up for at least 5 years because of the high recurrence rate.
Explanation and Truth

In the preceding chapter, I isolated certain conceptual features of the process of theory succession in the physical sciences. I argued there that the key to understanding the relationship between a predecessor theory and its successor lay in the notion of explanation, for the critical test of a successor theory lay in its explanatory strength. In particular, I argued, there is a constraint on any proposed successor theory for a range of phenomena: that its adoption put us in the position of being able to offer explanatory accounts both of the descriptive successes and of some of the descriptive failures (limit conditions) of its predecessor(s). Once this was seen, it became clear, too, that prediction was methodologically ancillary, serving the function of mapping the explanatory boundaries of a pair of theories and thereby establishing the actual empirical situation to answer to the successor, rather than to the predecessor, descriptions. Thus we could account for the fact that a select handful of predictions can do the total confirmatory job.
Clonal dynamics following p53 loss of heterozygosity in Kras -driven cancers

Although it has become increasingly clear that cancers display extensive cellular heterogeneity, the spatial growth dynamics of genetically distinct clones within developing solid tumours remain poorly understood. Here we leverage mosaic analysis with double markers (MADM) to trace subclonal populations retaining or lacking p53 within oncogenic Kras-initiated lung and pancreatic tumours. In both models, p53 constrains progression to advanced adenocarcinomas. Comparison of lineage-related p53 knockout and wild-type clones reveals a minor role of p53 in suppressing cell expansion in lung adenomas. In contrast, p53 loss promotes both the initiation and expansion of low-grade pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanINs), likely through differential expression of the p53 regulator p19ARF. Strikingly, lineage-related cells are often dispersed in lung adenomas and PanINs, contrasting with more contiguous growth of advanced subclones. Together, these results support cancer type-specific suppressive roles of p53 in early tumour progression and offer insights into clonal growth patterns during tumour development.
Evaluating Hydrogeological and Topographic Controls on Groundwater Arsenic Contamination in the Middle-Ganga Plain in India: Towards Developing Sustainable Arsenic Mitigation Models

We investigated the spatial distribution and severity of groundwater arsenic contamination in three previously un-studied villages located near the confluence of the Rivers Ganges and Sone, within the Maner block of Patna district in the Bihar State, India. We also gathered information on the demographic, socioeconomic and health issues of local residents in order to identify at-risk populations due to the exposure to elevated concentrations of arsenic. Arsenic concentrations were measured in 157 drinking water sources, which were tested using field-tests kits. Spatial patterns in arsenic distribution were compared with local physiographic and hydrogeologic parameters. Arsenic levels exceeding the WHO and the BIS standards (10 μg/L and 50 μg/L respectively) were found in all three villages, with a maximum of 300 μg/L. The shallow aquifers (≤50 m below ground surface) and older hand pumps were found to be arsenic contaminated. The deeper aquifers (>50 m) exhibited arsenic levels within permissible limits. Elevated arsenic levels are observed close to the River Ganges. However, a moderate (r = 0.240, p = 0.031) positive correlation with the surface water flow direction indicates that arsenic migrates from south to north and from west to east in the study area. This suggests that River Sone alluvium is a potential source of arsenic contamination in Bihar.
Pre-heparin lipoprotein lipase mass as a potential mediator in the association between adiponectin and HDL-cholesterol in type 2 diabetes.

Aim Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) is a major enzyme in lipid metabolism. Dyslipidemia, characterized by decreased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), is prevalent in persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The aim of this study was to determine whether pre-heparin LPL mass mediates the association between adiponectin and HDL-C in individuals with T2DM.
Merkel cells are long-lived cells whose production is stimulated by skin injury

Mechanosensitive Merkel cells are thought to have finite lifespans, but controversy surrounds the frequency of their replacement and which precursor cells maintain the population. We found by embryonic EdU administration that Merkel cells undergo terminal cell division in late embryogenesis and survive long into adulthood. We also found that new Merkel cells are produced infrequently during normal skin homeostasis and that their numbers do not change during natural or induced hair cycles. In contrast, live imaging and EdU experiments showed that mild mechanical injury produced by skin shaving dramatically increases Merkel cell production. We confirmed with genetic cell ablation and fate-mapping experiments that new touch dome Merkel cells in adult mice arise from touch dome keratinocytes. Together, these independent lines of evidence show that Merkel cells in adult mice are long-lived, are replaced rarely during normal adult skin homeostasis, and that their production can be induced by repeated shaving. These results have profound implications for understanding sensory neurobiology and human diseases such as Merkel cell carcinoma.
The Spanish general elections of 2015 and 2016: a new stage in democratic politics?

The 11th (in 2015) and 12th (in 2016) general elections under the Constitution of 1978 ushered Spain into a new stage of democratic governance. The first stage included the transitional election of...
A Study of the Microbial Spatial Heterogeneity of Bahamian Thrombolites Using Molecular, Biochemical, and Stable Isotope Analyses.

Abstract Thrombolites are buildups of carbonate that exhibit a clotted internal structure formed through the interactions of microbial mats and their environment. Despite recent advances, we are only beginning to understand the microbial and molecular processes associated with their formation. In this study, a spatial profile of the microbial and metabolic diversity of thrombolite-forming mats of Highborne Cay, The Bahamas, was generated by using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and predictive metagenomic analyses. These molecular-based approaches were complemented with microelectrode profiling and in situ stable isotope analysis to examine the dominant taxa and metabolic activities within the thrombolite-forming communities. Analyses revealed three distinctive zones within the thrombolite-forming mats that exhibited stratified populations of bacteria and archaea. Predictive metagenomics also revealed vertical profiles of metabolic capabilities, such as photosynthesis and carboxylic and fatty acid synthesis withi...
Transmission attributes and resistance to rose rosette virus

Rosette caused by rose rosette virus (RRV) is a devastating disease of rose in the United States. The virus was discovered in 2011 and Koch's postulates completed in 2015. Because of these recent discoveries, assumptions about the disease including movement, transmission and resistance are based on visual observations of material that may or may have not been infected by the virus. This study addresses several aspects of virus and disease dynamics. Twenty rose genotypes were screened for mite and/or virus resistance. Phyllocoptes fructiphilus (Keifer), the only known vector of RRV, was able to establish, lay eggs and develop nymphs and adults in all rose genotypes. ‘Stormy Weather’ shows resistance to the virus as assessed in both mite and cleft-grafting transmission experiments. Mites showed a long acquisition/latent period but a rapid inoculation time for RRV. Knowledge of resistance as well as transmission attributes will assist in better management of vector and disease. The identified resistant genotype would be used in areas with high disease pressure to minimize spread, for identification of the mechanisms behind resistance or as breeding parent to incorporate virus resistance to new cultivars. The short inoculation access period suggests that chemical control for this vector may be challenging to undertake. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Presentness, Dates and Eternity

Craig takes up an argument from my treatment of some claims of Augustine. Cleaned up a bit, it runs thus: (1) existence = presentness. (2) a timeless being exists. So, (3) a timeless being is present. (4) no part of a timeless being’s life has, had or will have a past or a future. (5) any being no part of whose life has, had or will have a past or a future is more fully present than any being some part of whose life has, had or will have a past or future. (6) Some part of any temporal being’s life has, had or will have a past or a future. So, (7) any timeless being is more fully present than any temporal being. So, (8) any timeless being exists more fully than any temporal being does (from 1, 7).
Airborne molecular contamination: Formation, impact, measurement and removal of nitrous acid (HNO 2 )

Airborne molecular contamination (AMC) is a significant contributor to the loss of yield in semiconductor processes [1–4]. Impact of weak acids has only been considered for process technologies of 22 nm and below [5–8]. One such weak acid is nitrous acid (HNO 2 or HONO), which has no demonstrated direct impact on processes or equipment, but has nevertheless been a target for removal by AMC filtration. HNO 2 is commonly formed on all surfaces in all environments from NO 2 gas, one of the main oxides of nitrogen formed from combustion processes and ambient air photochemistry. This study investigated the behavior of the NO X /HNOx system around typical AMC filter adsorbents. We find that NO gas passes through AMC filters unchanged, whereas NO 2 is converted mostly to NO, but also to HNO 2 at the low ppb level, increasing AMC load downstream of filters. Various adsorbents can capture HNO 2 , but filter lifetimes are short due to the release of the volatile compound over time. The recommendation is to critically evaluate the impact of HNO 2 on processes and equipment and adjust AMC filtration needs accordingly.
Fiber and the Intestinal Microflora

During the past decade, the importance of fiber substances in the diet has been reawakened by epidemiologists. The theories and information brought forth by Burkitt and Trowell,1 Cleave et al.,2 Spiller and Amen,3 and Walker4 have postulated that fiber in the diet is essential in the prevention of a series of degenerative diseases that include constipation, carcinoma of the colon, diverticular disease of the colon, appendicitis, diabetes mellitus, hiatus hernia, cholelithiasis, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids. This is truly a diverse list that can only be tied together by the theories postulated by Birkitt and Trowell. There are four texts published within the past decade that contain almost all of the recent information regarding these theories and the factual information in the field.1–3,5 In this section we can only outline available and pertinent information. There is enough information available now to indicate that fiber in the diet is an essential factor for normal intestinal function, which in turn may be essential for the prevention of a whole series of degenerative diseases. Early in this century, Metchnikoff6 proposed that toxic products within the intestine caused much of our disease. The present work on fiber substances may well prove him correct within the coming decades.
Antigen and Antibody Studies in Demyelinating Disease

A potential clue to our understanding of the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) is the presence in MS cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and brain eluates of heterogeneously distributed IgG, i.e. oligoclonal IgG bands. The first description of abnormal IgG bands in MS was by Lowenthal (1960) who observed that CSF IgG from MS had “restricted heterogeneity” when analyzed by agar gel electrophoresis (AGE). Laterre (1965) referred to these bands as “oligoclonal” in order to emphasize the derivation of these bands from several clones of antibody synthesizing cells. The monoclonality of the bands has been supported by evidence that individual bands possess a single light chain type (Link and Laurenzi, 1978; Mattson et al., 1982a) and single idiotype (Ebers et al., 1979; Nagelkerken et al., 1980; Gerhard et al., 1981; Tachovsky et al., 1982).
Daily Fasting Improves Health and Survival in Male Mice Independent of Diet Composition and Calories

The importance of dietary composition and feeding patterns in aging remains largely unexplored, but was implicated recently in two prominent nonhuman primate studies. Here, we directly compare in mice the two diets used in the primate studies focusing on three paradigms: ad libitum (AL), 30% calorie restriction (CR), and single-meal feeding (MF), which accounts for differences in energy density and caloric intake consumed by the AL mice. MF and CR regimes enhanced longevity regardless of diet composition, which alone had no significant impact within feeding regimens. Like CR animals, MF mice ate quickly, imposing periods of extended daily fasting on themselves that produced significant improvements in morbidity and mortality compared with AL. These health and survival benefits conferred by periods of extended daily fasting, independent of dietary composition, have major implications for human health and clinical applicability.
The effect of inhaled heliox on peak flow rates in normal and brachycephalic dogs.

BACKGROUND Heliox, a mixture of helium and oxygen, alleviates airway obstruction in people and improves air flow, and its use has been proposed in dogs. Brachycephalic dogs have naturally occurring airway obstruction where heliox might be a useful therapeutic option. OBJECTIVE The purposes of this study were to (1) determine the impact of breathing heliox on peak inspiratory and expiratory flows (PIF/PEF) in healthy dogs and (2) determine if brachycephalic dogs and mesocephalic dogs have similar responses to inhaled heliox. ANIMALS Eleven healthy dogs: 5 mesocephalic and 6 brachycephalic dogs. METHODS A prospective study. Tidal breathing flow-volume loops were recorded when dogs were breathing room air (nitrogen-oxygen) and heliox. Peak inspiratory and expiratory flow rates were recorded and the subjective shape of loops assessed. Peak inspiratory and expiratory flows pre- and post-heliox were compared using a Mann-Whitney Rank sum test with a P-value of <.05 considered significant. RESULTS In inhaled heliox, PIF and PEF were evaluated by tidal breathing flow-volume loops. In mesocephalic dogs, PIF increased from a median of 820 mL/s (range, 494-1010 mL/s) to 1386 mL/s; P = .02; and for PEF from 688 mL/s to 1793 mL/s (P = .04), whereas in brachycephalic dogs, the median PIF increased from 282 mL/s to 694 mL/s; P = .01 and the median PEF increased from 212 mL/s to 517 mL/sec; P = .03. Brachycephalic dogs showed normalization of loop shapes. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Heliox improves flow rate and appears to improve flow patterns in brachycephalic dogs.
Quality Improvement Initiative to Improve Sleep in Pediatric HSCT Patients and Caregivers

Background Sleep is an essential biological function vital for physiological rest, healing and emotional well-being. Sleep disruption, defined as interruptions or alterations to the normal sleeping patterns, is commonly seen in patients and caregivers with lengthy hospital stays such as patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). Sleep disruption in the caregivers of hospitalized patients can lead to increased stress and fatigue, decrease quality of life and ultimately affect the caregiver ability to support their loved one. Methods Through a longitudinal observational cohort study, the quality and quantity of sleep in pediatric patients undergoing HSCT and their caregivers was studied; we identified a high level of sleep disturbance utilizing actigraphy and recounted poor sleep through qualitative assessments. We then performed a cross sectional focus group analysis of patients, caregivers and medical staff to identify the factors associated with poor sleep. The global aim of our quality improvement initiative was to improve sleep quality in HSCT patients and caregivers. The smart aim of our project was to decrease nighttime noise from 46 decibels (dB) (mean baseline data) to 38dB (WHO recommends night outside noise of less than 40dB) in a 6 month period and increase sleep efficacy from a mean of 60 % (combined patient and caregiver) to 90% in the following 6 month period. We worked on achieving this goal through an overnight nighttime sleep hygiene bundle to decrease sleep disruption along with reduction of the hallway nighttime noise (9pm-7am). Results The most common factors associated with sleep disruption were noisy room entries, overnight trash pulls, loud hallway noise and noisy hospital staff. A simplified failure mode analysis identified four main key drivers; reliable nighttime awareness system, quiet nighttime nursing system, unobtrusive nighttime cleaning process and nighttime awareness maintenance system. Several PDSA (plan-do-study-act) interventions for each key driver took place and were adapted. The overnight mean dB decreased to 42dB (9% reduction). Overnight noise spikes above 60dB have decreased from a mean of 271 spikes to a mean of 151 spikes (44% reduction). Percentage of sleep efficacy results and follow up of quantitative and qualitative sleep assessments of patients and caregivers will be available by February 2019. Conclusions With a quality improvement initiative, we identified factors that negatively impact sleep and performed interventions that successfully mitigate these factors, leading to improved quality of sleep in HSCT patients and their caregivers.
Overlaying multiple sources of data to identify bottlenecks in clinical workflow

Abstract The pursuit of increased efficiency and quality of clinical care based on the analysis of workflow has seen the introduction of several modern technologies into medical environments. Electronic health records (EHRs) remain central to analysis of workflow, owing to their wide-ranging impact on clinical processes. The two most common interventions to facilitate EHR-related workflow analysis are automated location tracking using sensor-based technologies and EHR usage data logs. However, to maximize the potential of these technologies, and especially to facilitate workflow redesign, it is necessary to overlay these quantitative findings on the contextual data from qualitative methods such as ethnography. Such a complementary approach promises to yield more precise measures of clinical workflow that provide insights into how redesign could address inefficiencies. In this paper, we categorize clinical workflow in the Emergency Department (ED) into three types (perceived, real and ideal) to create a structured approach to workflow redesign using the available data. We use diverse data sources: sensor-based location tracking through Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID), summary EHR usage data logs, and data from physician interviews augmented by direct observations (through clinician shadowing). Our goal is to discover inefficiencies and bottlenecks that can be addressed to achieve a more ideal workflow state relative to its real and perceived state. We thereby seek to demonstrate a novel data-driven approach toward iterative workflow redesign that generalizes for use in a variety of settings. We also propose types of targeted support or adjustments to offset some of the inefficiencies we noted.
Regarding micro-RNA-181a-5p antisense oligonucleotides attenuate osteoarthritis in facet and knee joints

I read with considerable interest the paper by Nakamura and colleagues dealing with the potential therapeutic use of a locked nucleic acid, antisense oligonucleotide (LNA ASO) against a micro-RNA in osteoarthritis (OA).1 I was particularly impressed with the Osteoarthritis Research Society International and cellularity scores as well as the data on degenerative markers and chondrocyte apoptosis/death from the in vivo animal models. Nonetheless, I had a couple of questions that I hope the authors can help me with. First, was the reason you had to employ TransFectin Lipid Reagent to transfect …
Cutaneous TRPV1+ Neurons Trigger Protective Innate Type 17 Anticipatory Immunity

Cutaneous TRPV1+ neurons directly sense noxious stimuli, inflammatory cytokines, and pathogen-associated molecules and are required for innate immunity against some skin pathogens. Important unanswered questions are whether TRPV1+ neuron activation in isolation is sufficient to initiate innate immune responses and what is the biological function for TRPV1+ neuron-initiated immune responses. We used TRPV1-Ai32 optogenetic mice and cutaneous light stimulation to activate cutaneous neurons in the absence of tissue damage or pathogen-associated products. We found that TRPV1+ neuron activation was sufficient to elicit a local type 17 immune response that augmented host defense to C. albicans and S. aureus. Moreover, local neuron activation elicited type 17 responses and augmented host defense at adjacent, unstimulated skin through a nerve reflex arc. These data show the sufficiency of TRPV1+ neuron activation for host defense and demonstrate the existence of functional anticipatory innate immunity at sites adjacent to infection that depends on antidromic neuron activation.
Financial Implications of Site-Neutral Payments for Clinic Visits in Otolaryngology.

This cross-sectional study examines the association between site-neutral payment reform and otolaryngologists practicing within the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System.
Abstract P5-14-14: A validated clinical risk prediction model for cardiac toxicity in patients treated with antiHER2 agents

Background: Cardiac toxicity (CT) in the form of left ventricular systolic dysfunction is a well-known complication of anti-HER2 therapy. Prior clinical trial data has suggested potential factors associated with increased risk for CT. We sought to develop a clinical risk prediction model from real world patients to better identify patients who may be at higher risk for CT. Methods: Patients treated with anti-HER2 agents at all Mayo Clinic sites from Jan 2008 to July 2015 were reviewed. Patient data including age, race, body mass index, comorbidities, smoking history, baseline ejection fraction (EF), presence of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), prior cancer treatments, number of anti-HER2 agents used, and cardiac medication use were recorded. Factors were compared in patients with and without development of CT. Cox regression models were used to identify univariate and multivariate predictors of CT. A risk score was then assigned based on the final multivariable model. Results: 604 patients were included in final analysis. Median follow-up 2.9 yrs; median age: 57 yr; baseline EF: 64%. One yr CT rate was 7%. Independent predictors of CT were age, baseline EF, LVH, and anthracycline use (C index=0.74). Based on model coefficient, scores of 1, 1, 2 and 3 were assigned to age>55, EF Citation Format: Pooja P Advani, Lauren Cornell, Zhuo Li, Jordan Ray, Catalina Sanchez, Armando Villanueva, Taryn Smith, Alvaro Moreno-Aspitia. A validated clinical risk prediction model for cardiac toxicity in patients treated with antiHER2 agents [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2019 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2019 Dec 10-14; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-14-14.
Motion Metrics Reliably Differentiate Competency: Fundamentals of Endovascular and Vascular Surgery

Abstract Objective The Fundamentals of Endovascular & Vascular Surgery (FEVS) is a curriculum that includes an endovascular model for skills testing, which aims to differentiate between competent and non-competent performers. The aim of our study is to further validate the model and test its reliability in assessing the performance of endovascular trainees in an uncontrolled setting. Methods The model was tested exclusively in a virtual-reality environment. Fifty-two subjects were divided into three groups based on their endovascular experience: novice ( 500 endovascular cases). Performance was evaluated in four tasks, measuring the tool tip position and velocity on the virtual model. Average tool tip velocity and movement smoothness in the velocity frequency domain are validated parameters defining proficiency of movement. The data were filtered and interpolated to calculate the metrics. Trials containing critical tool manipulation errors were excluded. Results In total 52 tasks completed by novices, 25 completed by intermediates, and 38 completed by experts were analyzed to determine performance. The difference in performance between the novice and expert groups was statistically significant for guidewire smoothness; P Conclusion The FEVS model continues to differentiate novices from experts based on their handling of guidewire and catheter tools, measured as smoothness and velocity. This model offers a useful instrument to test competency in endovascular surgeons.
Photodynamic therapy, priming and optical imaging: Potential co-conspirators in treatment design and optimization — a Thomas Dougherty Award for Excellence in PDT paper

Photodynamic therapy is a photochemistry-based approach, approved for the treatment of several malignant and non-malignant pathologies. It relies on the use of a non-toxic, light activatable chemic...
Fixed Orthodontic Retainers Do Not Seem to Adversely Affect Periodontal Health

Article Title and Bibliographic Information The effects of fixed orthodontic retainers on periodontal health: A systematic review. Arn M, Dristas K, Pandis N, Kloukos D. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2020;157:156-64. Source of Funding Information is not available and the authors did state any specific funding for this study and report no potential conflicts of interest. Type of Study/Design Systematic review.
Precessional spin-torque dynamics in biaxial antiferromagnets

The N\'eel order of an antiferromagnet subject to a spin torque can undergo precession in a circular orbit about any chosen axis. To orient and stabilize the motion against the effects of magnetic anisotropy, the spin polarization should have components in-plane and normal to the plane of the orbit, where the latter must exceed a threshold. For biaxial antiferromagnets, the precessional motion is described by the equation for a damped-driven pendulum, which has hysteresis as a function of the spin current with a critical value where the period diverges. The fundamental frequency of the motion varies inversely with the damping and as ${({x}^{p}\ensuremath{-}1)}^{1/p}$, with the drive-to-criticality ratio $x$ and the parameter $pg2$. An approximate closed-form result for the threshold spin current is presented, which depends on the minimum cutoff frequency the orbit can support. Precession about the hard axis has zero cutoff frequency and the lowest threshold, while the easy axis has the highest cutoff. A device setup is proposed for electrical control and detection of the dynamics, which is promising to demonstrate a tunable terahertz nano-oscillator.
A Miniaturized 256-Channel Neural Recording Interface with Area-Efficient Hybrid Integration of Flexible Probes and CMOS Integrated Circuits

We report a miniaturized, minimally invasive high-density neural recording interface that occupies only a 1.53 mm2 footprint for hybrid integration of a flexible probe and a 256-channel integrated circuit chip. To achieve such a compact form factor, we developed a custom flip-chip bonding technique using anisotropic conductive film and analog circuit-under-pad in a tiny pitch of 75 m. To enhance signal-to-noise ratios, we applied a reference-replica topology that can provide the matched input impedance for signal and reference paths in low-noise aimpliers (LNAs). The analog front-end (AFE) consists of LNAs, buffers, programmable gain amplifiers, 10b ADCs, a reference generator, a digital controller, and serial-peripheral interfaces (SPIs). The AFE consumes 51.92 W from 1.2 V and 1.8 V supplies in an area of 0.0161 mm2 per channel, implemented in a 180 nm CMOS process. The AFE shows > 60 dB mid-band CMRR, 6.32 Vrms input-referred noise from 0.5 Hz to 10 kHz, and 48 M input impedance at 1 kHz. The fabricated AFE chip was directly flip-chip bonded with a 256-channel flexible polyimide neural probe and assembled in a tiny head-stage PCB. Full functionalities of the fabricated 256-channel interface were validated in both in vitro and in vivo experiments, demonstrating the presented hybrid neural recording interface is suitable for various neuroscience studies in the quest of large scale, miniaturized recording systems.
Ventricular arrhythmias

Results of recent clinical trials allow an evidence-based approach to ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). The implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) has clearly established its role in the secondary prevention of VA and should be considered first-line therapy in patients surviving episodes of potentially lethal VAs. It has also been clearly shown that in these patients, antiarrhythmic drug selection by means of serial Holter recording or electrophysiologic study does not improve survival. Antiarrhythmic drug therapy (including amiodarone) as primary prevention in high-risk patients (eg, those who have experienced a myocardial infarction or who have heart failure) has thus far not reduced the mortality rate. In contrast, use of the ICD as a primary preventative strategy has reduced the mortality rate in patients after myocardial infarction who have reduced left ventric-ular function, nonsustained ventricular tachycardia, and inducible ventricular tachycardia during electrophysiologic study. Thus, patients fitting this clinical pro-file are best served by implantation of an ICD. Monomorphic ventricular tachycardia occurs rarely in patients without heart disease. These arrhythmias are best treated with catheter ablation therapy, a treatment with a high rate of success and a low rate of complications.
Needle Fracture During Injection Medialization Laryngoplasty.

Summary Objectives Awake injection medialization laryngoplasty is one of the most common therapeutic procedures done by laryngologists in the office or at the bedside. Complications of injection needle fracture are rarely reported. Methods This is a case report of a 59-year-old male inpatient who developed left vocal fold immobility with significant glottic insufficiency after pneumonectomy for a large left-sided lung cancer. During bedside injection medialization using thyrohyoid approach, the 25 G needle fractured at the hub and was embedded partly in pre-epiglottic space and partly extending over rima glottidis. Results Fractured needle was successfully retrieved at the bedside with an endoscopic biopsy forcep using flexible bronchoscope. Conclusion It is imperative to be aware of rare complications of routine procedures like injection laryngoplasty so they can be managed timely and effectively.
Intelligent Data Analysis Techniques—Machine Learning and Data Mining

This introductory chapter presents some of the main paradigms of intelligent data analysis provided by machine learning and data mining. After discussing several types of learning (supervised, unsupervised, semi-supervised, active and reinforcement learning) we examine several classes of learning algorithms (naive Bayes classifiers, decision trees, support vector machines, and neural networks) and the modalities to evaluate their performance. Examples of specific applications of algorithms are given using System R.
Antigen modulation of the immune response. IV. Selective triggering of antibody production and memory cell proliferation.

Abstract When memory cells are transferred to syngeneic irradiated recipients and then challenged at various times after transfer, a precipitous decline in the ability of these cells to mount a secondary response is seen. Using this model we have investigated some of the influences which antigen can exert on the memory cell population. The results indicate that antigen may: 1) either stimulate the memory cells to proliferate and form new memory cells or stimulate memory cells to become antibody forming cells and 2) selectively trigger the memory cells for low or high affinity antibody production. This selective antigen triggering appeared to depend upon its concentration: high dose antigen challenge led to the production of large amounts of lower affinity antibody but stimulated less memory cell proliferation while low dose challenge showed just the opposite. Control experiments indicated that recruitment of new memory cells from a virgin precursor population was not responsible for these observations. Our results thus suggest that an asymmetrical division of memory cells is occurring in which antigen can exert selective influences in much the same way as seen with virgin precursor cells.
Power management strategy of hybrid electric vehicles based on particle swarm optimization

The Power management strategy of HEV using global optimization techniques can achieve optimum control solution. However, the “a priori” nature of the trip information and heavy computational cost prohibit it from being utilized in real world application. In this paper, a power management strategy using particle swarm optimization (PSO) is proposed. The aim is to achieve real time implementation and sub-optimal control solution without requiring the “a priori” knowledge of the driving cycle. Using pricewise linearization, at each time step, normalized comprehensive energy loss for each power split scenario is obtained and normalized over the traveling distance. The power split strategy that minimizes the normalized comprehensive energy loss is considered optimal. However, searching for the optimal power split is mathematically challenging and time consuming. To address the real time implementation, PSO algorithm is employed as the global minima searching tool. Simulation study on a series-parallel configuration passenger vehicle has been performed. In addition, Dynamic Programming (DP) technique has also been implemented in the simulation for the comparison purpose. The simulation results demonstrated that the proposed control strategy is able to achieve comparable fuel economy with global optimization while feasible for real time implementation.
Candidate placental biomarkers for intrauterine alcohol exposure.

Background: Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a leading cause of nongenetic mental retardation and other neurodevelopmental deficits. Earlier diagnosis of FASD would greatly improve prognosis for individuals and families affected by this disorder. Here, we identify candidate placental biomarkers in an animal model of FASD that recapitulates many aspects of human FASD. Methods: Pregnant Sprague-Dawley (SD) females were assigned to 1 of 3 diet groups on gestation day 8 (G8): Ethanol (E), Pair-fed (PF) or Control (C). E dams received ethanol-containing liquid diet and PF dams received isocaloric liquid diet in an amount that matched the paired E dam’s diet consumption the previous day. Control dams received laboratory chow and water ad libitum. Whole placentae from individual fetuses were collected on gestational day 21 (G21) for analyses. Western blotting and quantitative real-time RT-PCR were used to measure protein and mRNA levels of placental iodothyronine deiodinase III (Dio3), thyroid hormone receptor α1 (TRα1), and glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Placental mRNA levels of insulin-like growth factor 2 (Igf-2), pleckstrin homology-like domain family A member 2 (Phlda2), and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1C (Cdkn1c) were also measured. Results: Placental protein and mRNA levels from ethanol (E)-consuming dams showed the following changes: increased Dio3, decreased TRα1, and decreased GR compared to both C and PF dams. Placental mRNA levels of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) markers Igf-2, Phlda2, and Cdkn1c were altered similarly in PF and E dams. Conclusions: We propose the specific pattern of increased Dio3 and decreased TRα1 and GR protein levels in the placenta as selective biomarker for intrauterine alcohol exposure.
Faculty Expectations of Graduate Students

When looking for a new student a few years ago, I considered an international student who wasn’t available for me to interview personally—something I’ve come to require before I accept a student into my research group. After some preliminary discussion, I asked her my “behavioral” questions by email to give her an opportunity to provide me with some insight into her qualifications and character. I asked her to describe experiences where she had to resolve a conflict with someone else, where she had faced and overcome a hurdle, and to describe her motivation for graduate school. In her response, which started by noting a particular interaction she had had with her father, she presented me with a well-written documentary of her skills, into which her responses to my three questions were woven. Being the sort of person myself who would have bullet-pointed a response and detailed specific activities to document those skills, I was greatly impressed with her ability to think more broadly than my specific request, yet get at the heart of my questions in a creative approach. I accepted her as a student immediately because those are the attributes in a graduate student I value most highly.
Cost and Scalability of Hardware Encryption Techniques

We discuss practical details and basic scalability for two recent ideas for hardware encryption for trojan prevention. The broad idea is to encrypt the data used as inputs to hardware circuits to make it more difficult for malicious attackers to exploit hardware trojans. The two methods we discuss are data obfuscation and fully homomorphic encryption (FHE). Data obfuscation [5] is a technique wherein specific data inputs are encrypted so that they can be operated on within a hardware module without exposing the data itself to the hardware. FHE is a technique recently discovered to be theoretically possible [2]. With FHE, not only the data but also the operations and the entire circuit are encrypted. FHE primarily exists as a theoretical construct currently. It has been shown that it can theoretically be applied to any program or circuit [2]. It has also been applied in a limited respect to some software [4]. Some initial algorithms for hardware applications have been proposed [1]. We find that data obfuscation is efficient enough to be immediately practical, while FHE is not yet in the practical realm. There are also scalability concerns regarding current algorithms for FHE.
An investigation of tire-wheel interface loads using ADINA

Aircraft wheels are designed to exhibit a fail-safe point so that a crack in the wheel can be detected before any catastrophic failure occurs. Presently, engineers use intrusive instrumentation to directly measure the tire-wheel interface pressure distribution. The goal of the current research is to demonstrate a nonintrusive methodology for using experimental displacement data in conjunction with the finite element method to back calculate this pressure distribution. The result is a well calibrated and credible finite element model which can be used to investigate the structural performance of the wheel.
Case report 628

In summary, low-grade central osteosarcoma is a clinically recognizable rare subtype of osteosarcoma, representing 1.9% of all osteosarcomas found at the Mayo Clinic. The lesion is locally aggressive but also has the potential for metastasis, particularly after local recurrence. The tumor may be difficult to distinguish radiographically and histologically from benign conditions, particularly fibrous dysplasia. This difficulty has led to inadequate treatment. In most cases, a wide surgical margin achieved by either local resection or amputation should result in a cure. Because of the low metastatic potential of the initial lesion, there seems to be no need for adjuvant chemotherapy.
Plasmonic Gallium Nanoparticles on Polar Semiconductors: Interplay between Nanoparticle Wetting, Localized Surface Plasmon Dynamics, and Interface Charge

Ga nanoparticles supported on large band gap semiconductors like SiC, GaN, and ZnO are interesting for plasmon-enhanced UV-emitting solid-state devices. We investigate the influence of the polarity of the SiC, GaN, and ZnO wurtzite semiconductors on the wetting of Ga nanoparticles and on the resulting surface plasmon resonance (SPR) by exploiting real time plasmonic ellipsometry. The interface potential between polar semiconductors (SiC, GaN, and ZnO) and plasmonic nanoparticles (gallium) is shown to influence nanoparticle formation dynamics, geometry, and consequently the SPR wavelength. We invoke the Lippman electrowetting framework to elucidate the mechanisms controlling nanoparticle dynamics and experimentally demonstrate that the charge transfer at the Ga nanoparticle/polar semiconductor interface is an intrinsic method for tailoring the nanoparticle plasmon resonance. Therefore, the present data demonstrate that for supported nanoparticles, surface and interface piezoelectric charge of polar semicon...
STUDIES OF CHLOROPHYLL‐CHLOROPHYLL AND CHLOROPHYLL‐LIGAND INTERACTIONS BY VISIBLE ABSORPTION AND INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY AT LOW TEMPERATURES

Abstract— A comparison of the visible absorption and infrared spectra of various chlorophyll-chlorophyll (Chl) and Chi-nucleophile aggregates at room temperature and at low temperatures has been made. The IR data provide structural information indispensable for the interpretation of the visible spectra. As a necessary preliminary, it is shown that Chl a solutions in nonpolar solvents can be prepared by appropriate drying techniques that contain at a conservative estimate ≤ 3 mol % of water (i.e. Chl a/H2O > 30:1). Very dry solutions of Chl a or Pyrochl a(≥ 10 mM) in toluene or methylcyclohexane-isopentane solution show only slight changes in visible spectra on cooling to 77 K. From IR, additional Chl-Chl aggregation occurs on cooling in methylcyclohexane-isopentane but not to a significant extent in toluene. Dilute (10 μM) solutions of Chl a or Pyrochl a in nonpolar solvents form a new absorption peak near 700 nm at low temperatures, which we attribute to traces of water in the solvent or other residual nucleophiles not removed during the Chl purification. Addition of stoichiometric amounts of water increases the size of the ˜700 nm peak even in dilute Chl solutions. Chlorophyll a, Pyrochl a, but not pheophytin a are shown to interact with nucleophiles of the general type RXH (where R= H or alkyl, and X = O, N, or S). Such nucleophiles can coordinate to the Mg atom of one Chl molecule by lone pairs on O, N, or S, and hydrogen bond to oxygen donor functions in another Chl molecule. A ˜0.1 M solution of Chl a or Pyrochl a in toluene containing 1.5 equivalents of ethanol is converted almost entirely to a species absorbing at ˜700 nm at 77 K. Infrared spectroscopy shows conclusively that it is the keto C=O function that is involved in the cross-linking by hydrogen bonding, a conclusion supported by the observation that Pyrochl a forms a very similar red-shifted species at low temperatures, despite the absence of a carbomethoxy C=O function. n-Butylamine and ethanethiol interact in much the same way as does ethanol to form species red shifted to ˜700 nm. A variety of possible structures for the low temperature forms is discussed, and the use of these red shifted species as paradigms for photoreaction center Chl is described.
CHANGES IN CANINE INTRACRANIAL PRESSURE IN RESPONSE TO INFUSIONS OF SODIUM NITROPRUSSIDE AND TRINITROGLYCERIN

Intracramal pressure (i.c.p.) was measured in 11 normocapnic dogs anaesthetized with thiopentonc and morphine and ventilated with oxygen-enriched air. The changes in i.c.p. in response to infusions of enher sodium mtroprusside (SNP) 10 μ kg -1 min -1 (five anjmaln) or glyceryl trinitrate (TNG) 30 μg kg -1 min -1 (six animals) i.v. were recorded at a normal baseline i.c.p. and, in the same animalu, once the baseline i.c p. had been increased to 20mmHg and 40mmHg. Modest decreases (10–20%) in mean arterial pressure (m.a.p.) were noted during the infusions and the concomitant increases in i.c.p. in every animal were significant at each value of i.c.p. (P
Inhibition of the Trehalose-P Synthase of Mycobacteria by Various Antibiotics

Abstract A number of antibiotics were tested as potential inhibitors of the purified trehalose-P synthase of Mycobacterium smegmatis. Of about 30 compounds tested, 4 (cathomycin, circulin, diumycin, and moenomycin) were active against this enzyme. Thus each of these compounds inhibited the formation of trehalose-P by the purified trehalose-P synthase when either UDP-glucose or GDP-glucose was used as the glucosyl donor. However, preincubation of the synthase with heparin, a polyanion activator of the enzyme when UDP-glucose is used as the substrate, prevented the inhibition by these various antibiotics. Fifty percent inhibition by diumycin and moenomycin occurred at a concentration of about 50 μg/ml ( K i of about 1 × 10 −5 M ), but 50% inhibition by cathomycin and circulin required substantially higher concentrations (about 50 to 200 μg/ml). The inhibition by cathomycin, diumycin, and moenomycin was of the competitive type, whereas that by circulin was noncompetitive in nature. However, the inhibition was of a complex nature and the data suggest two different binding sites for these inhibitors. Photoaffinity labeling of the synthase with an azido-UDP-[ 32 P]glucose probe was effectively blocked by diumycin, moenomycin, or cathomycin indicating that these inhibitors do interact at the substrate binding site. These antibiotics also inhibited the growth of M. smegmatis when added to cells innoculated into trypticase soy broth. The inhibition of growth was concentration-dependent and directly proportional to the size of the bacterial innoculum. These antibiotics, however, did not inhibit protein synthesis nor did they inhibit the incorporation of mannose into lipid-linked saccharides.