cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pregnancy duration and fetal number: effects on maternal behavior in rats.

Abstract It was shown previously that in rats postpartum mothers are much more likely than pup sensitized virgin mothers to retrieve pups from a T-maze extension of their home cage. In the present experiment, the physiological basis of this difference was explored further by inducing maternal behavior (retrieving, crouching, licking) following hysterectomy-ovariectomy on Days 21, 16, and 10 of pregnancy. In general, the longer the duration of pregnancy, the shorter the latency to become maternal and the greater the propensity to retrieve pups from the T-maze. An additional group of Day 16 pregnancy terminated rats carrying six or fewer fetuses were not impaired with respect to onset of maternal behavior compared to their large-litter counterparts, but only a small percentage of these females retrieved in the T-maze. These findings suggest that both the late pregnancy estrogen surge and progesterone withdrawal after its peak and sustained secretion enhance maternal responsiveness and that T-maze pup retrieval (but not onset latency) may be additionally affected by the level of placental hormones.
Avatars and Robots as Social Companions in Healthcare: Requirements, Engineering, Adoption and Ethics

Elder care is of increasing global concern. The aging population is expected to increase two-fold by 2050. It is anticipated that there will not be enough caregivers to assist the elderly very soon, and thus researchers and entrepreneurs are looking at various types of information systems (IS) that will help alleviate the challenges in elder care. This paper examines one such IS: conversational agents in the form of avatars or robots as an aid to (i) decrease loneliness and depression among the elderly, (ii) increase cognitive function and quality of life, and (iii) generally help manage patient care. We discuss the state-of-the-science of research prototypes and commercial off-the-shelf ISs. We propose a novel concept and design, and we discuss the ethical ramifications of elderly patients possibly bonding with inanimate objects as if they were human companions.
Somatic embryogenesis in cell suspension culture of carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.)

Somatic embryogenesis and plantlet formation were obtained from 60–75 day old cell cultures of carnation. Callus was generated on MS basal medium supplemented with 2,4-dichchlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D). Removal of 2,4-D during subsequent subculturing of cell suspensions resulted in formation of embroids. These somatic embryos originated from single cells and their early development proceeded normally with clearly defined apical and root meristems. Some embryos developed into plants and were acclimatized to ex vitro conditions.
The Distribution of the Maximum Length of a Poisson Queue During a Busy Period

In the design of waiting facilities for the customers in a queue, it is of interest to know probability distributions of extremal values of the queue length. In this paper we propose to calculate explicitly the probability that \documentclass{aastex} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{bm} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{pifont} \usepackage{stmaryrd} \usepackage{textcomp} \usepackage{portland,xspace} \usepackage{amsmath,amsxtra} \pagestyle{empty} \DeclareMathSizes{10}{9}{7}{6} \begin{document} $$0 for all t in [0, t, in which Zt denotes the queue length at time t. This is the probability that in a Poisson queue the server remains busy throughout the time interval [0, t without ever having as many as b customers in line. We express this probability in terms of the taboo-probabilities with taboo-states 0 and b for a finite continuous time random walk. As an incidental result we obtain new expressions for these taboo-probabilities. It is routine to determine the distribution of the maximum queue length before the next emptiness from our results.
Coughing-induced bowel transection in a patient with an incarcerated inguinal hernia: a case report

Although blunt trauma to a hernia-containing bowel is known to cause bowel perforation, this report documents the first incident of a small bowel transection following a non-traumatic event. We report the case of a 49-year-old African American man with a chronic incarcerated inguinal hernia awaiting elective repair. He presented to the Emergency Department with abdominal pain following an episode of coughing. On examination, he was found to have peritonitis. He underwent exploratory laparotomy, and had a complete small bowel transection. A bowel resection with primary anastomosis was performed, as well an inguinal hernia repair. Chronic hernia incarceration can lead to weakening and ischemia of the bowel, and minimal trauma can lead to perforation of the weakened segment. In such presentations, bowel resection and repair of the defect with a biological material is safe and feasible.
Rheology and Confocal Reflectance Microscopy as Probes of Mechanical Properties and Structure during Collagen and Collagen/Hyaluronan Self-Assembly

In this work, the gelation of three-dimensional collagen and collagen/hyaluronan (HA) composites is studied by time sweep rheology and time lapse confocal reflectance microscopy (CRM). To investigate the complementary nature of these techniques, first collagen gel formation is investigated at concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 mg/mL at 37°C and 32°C. The following parameters are used to describe the self-assembly process in all gels: the crossover time (tc), the slope of the growth phase (kg), and the arrest time (ta). The first two measures are determined by rheology, and the third by CRM. A frequency-independent rheological measure of gelation, tg, is also measured at 37°C. However, this quantity cannot be straightforwardly determined for gels formed at 32°C, indicating that percolation theory does not fully capture the dynamics of collagen network formation. The effects of collagen concentration and gelation temperature on kg, tc, and ta as well as on the mechanical properties and structure of these gels both during gelation and at equilibrium are elucidated. Composite collagen/HA gels are also prepared, and their properties are monitored at equilibrium and during gelation at 37°C and 32°C. We show that addition of HA subtly alters mechanical properties and structure of these systems both during the gelation process and at equilibrium. This occurs in a temperature-dependent manner, with the ratio of HA deposited on collagen fibers versus that distributed homogeneously between fibers increasing with decreasing gelation temperature. In addition to providing information on collagen and collagen/HA structure and mechanical properties during gelation, this work shows new ways in which rheology and microscopy can be used complementarily to reveal details of gelation processes.
Coherent optical feedback for the analog solution of partial differential equations

A confocal Fabry-Perot interferometer is used to produce feedback within an optical processor. The resulting confocal feedback system (CFS) has a complex-valued feedback transfer function and performs analog solution of partial differential equations (PDE’s). The CFS is interfaced to a microcomputer via a laser scanner and video electronics to create a hybrid processor, thus taking a major step toward the practical use of the CFS for the high-speed solution of PDE’s. Solutions to the three types of second-order linear PDE’s in two dimensions—elliptic, hyperbolic, and parabolic—were obtained experimentally and analyzed.
School Transitions and Adjustment During Early Adolescence

The aim of this investigation was to determine the impact of the timing and number of school transitions on young adolescents' subsequent adjustment. Three groups of adolescents (total N = 253) were compared: those making a single early school transition prior to sixth grade, those making a single later transition prior to seventh grade, and those making a double transition prior to both sixth and seventh grades. Adjustment was assessed in terms of course grades and self-image. Negative effects were found for both early and repeated school transitions, with the double transition being especially debilitating. In addition, effects were seen primarily with course grades. Few gender differences were observed in the response to early and double transitions, but those that emerged suggest that girls may be more adversely affected than boys.
Helping Young Adults Understand Their Learning Disabilities

This study evaluated the effectiveness of an Understanding Learning Disabilities (ULD) course designed to promote self-understanding and self-advocacy skills in young adults with learning disabilities (LD) functioning in the low-average range intellectually. Nineteen first-year students with LD at the Threshold Program at Lesley College received 15 hours of training throughout one semester. Seventeen first-year students with LD at the Para-Educator Center at New York University served as the control group. Both a paper-and-pencil questionnaire and a role-play interview were used as pre- and postassessments. Results of ANOVAs performed on posttest questionnaire and interview scores support the effectiveness of the ULD course in expanding students' knowledge base regarding their learning disabilities and teaching them to apply their self-understanding in a social context. Moreover, students' performance on the questionnaire was an effective predictor of future work adjustment 1 year later. Significant corre...
Acute hormonal response to sublingual androstenediol intake in young men.

The effectiveness of orally ingested androstenediol in raising serum testosterone concentrations may be limited because of hepatic breakdown of the ingested androgens. Because androstenediol admini...
Radiological features in Brachmann-de Lange syndrome.

Brachmann-de Lange syndrome (BDLS) is a well-delineated disorder consisting variably of pre- and postnatal growth deficiency, microbrachycephaly, characteristic face, hypertrichosis, visceral anomalies, and limb defects consisting primarily of variable limb reduction defects, micromelia, and elbow abnormalities. The course is usually marked by initial hypertonicity, low-pitched weak cry, feeding problems, and behavioral problems with marked mental deficiency. In classical cases there is rarely any difficulty in making the diagnosis but for mildly affected cases, it may be difficult to feel secure about the diagnosis. In an effort to increase the precision of diagnosis for mildly affected cases, we reviewed roentgenograms in 21 cases of Brachmann-de Lange syndrome, as well as previously published descriptions of the radiological manifestations. Unusual radiologic manifestations were related primarily to the limb anomalies, and these were often asymmetric. These manifestations included digital abnormalities, which ranged from acheiria to oligodactyly, hypoplasia of the thumb and first metacarpal, clinodactyly of the fifth finger, or ectrodactyly. Long bone abnormalities included ulnar a/hypoplasia, dysplasia of the radial head, or fusion of the elbow. When there was a single forearm bone, there was often fusion at the elbow and oligodactyly, which made it difficult to determine whether the radius or ulna was absent. Other radiologic manifestations included 13 ribs with precocious sternal fusion, and micrognathia. We suggest that these radiologic manifestations could increase diagnostic precision in mildly affected cases. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Dose Escalation of Lenalidomide in Relapsed or Refractory Acute Leukemias

Purpose Lenalidomide is effective in myeloma and low-risk myelodysplastic syndromes with deletion 5q. We report results of a phase I dose-escalation trial of lenalidomide in relapsed or refractory acute leukemia. Patients and Methods Thirty-one adults with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and four adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) were enrolled. Lenalidomide was given orally at escalating doses of 25 to 75 mg daily on days 1 through 21 of 28-day cycles to determine the dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) and maximum-tolerated dose (MTD), as well as to provide pharmacokinetic and preliminary efficacy data. Results Patients had a median age of 63 years (range, 22 to 79 years) and a median of two prior therapies (range, one to four therapies). The DLT was fatigue; 50 mg/d was the MTD. Infectious complications were frequent. Plasma lenalidomide concentration increased proportionally with dose. In AML, five (16%) of 31 patients achieved complete remission (CR); three of three patients with cytogenetic abnorm...
What We Need to Know about Responsiveness to Intervention (and Shouldn't Be Afraid to Ask).

During the past several years, one of the most frequently addressed topics at conferences and in professional journals is responsiveness to intervention (RTI). This is because it is viewed by many as a new way to think about both early intervention and disabil- ity identification. Despite its relative newness, a subset of RTI proponents contend researchers and practition- ers know everything they need to know to implement it effectively. We disagree and argue that the smartest and most responsible way to move forward with RTI im- plementation is to recognize what all of us collectively do know and do not know. In this article, we identify unresolved issues—general and specific—important to RTI implementation, teacher effectiveness, and student achievement.
Apoptotic effect of a novel kefir product, PFT, on multidrug-resistant myeloid leukemia cells via a hole-piercing mechanism.

We examined the apoptotic effect of a novel Probiotics Fermentation Technology (PFT) kefir grain product; PFT is a natural mixture composed primarily of Lactobacillus kefiri P-IF, a specific strain of L. kefiri with unique growth characteristics. The aim of this study was to examine the apoptotic effect of PFT on human multidrug- resistant (MDR) myeloid leukemia (HL60/AR) cells in vitro and explore the mechanistic approach underlying its effect. HL60/AR cells were cultured with PFT (0.6-5.0 mg/ml) for 3 days. The apoptotic effect of PFT was assessed through examination of percent apoptosis, caspase 3 activation, Bcl-2 expression levels and changes in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). PFT induced apoptosis in HL60/AR cells in a dose-dependent manner which was maximal at 67.5% for 5 mg/ml. Induction of apoptosis was associated with activa- tion of caspase 3, decreased expression of Bcl-2 and decreased polarization of MMP. In addition, PFT showed a unique char- acteristic of piercing holes in HL60/AR cells, as indicated by AFM studies. This hole induction may be responsible for the apoptotic effect on cancer cells. These results suggest that PFT may act as a potential therapy for the treatment of MDR leukemia.
Effects of Shear Modulus of Polymer Gels

Gels exhibit mechanical properties characteristic of both solid and liquid-gas systems. From the compressibility (bulk modulus) point of view, a gel network system behaves like liquid-gas system. The value of the bulk modulus of a gel is small in the dilute (corresponding to the gas) phase and is large in the dense (corresponding to the liquid) phase. However, the shear modulus of a liquid-gas system is zero, but is finite for a gel (although much smaller than solids). Thus, the gel network behaves like a solid from the rigidity (shear modulus) point of view. These special properties make the gel system a unique material for theoretical study and practical applications. Compared with the liquid-gas, the free energy of a gel is $$ dF = - SdT - PdV - YdX. $$ (1) Where Y and X are the shear stress and the shear deformation. The bulk (K) and shear (µ) moduli are related with the second derivatives of F with respect to V and X, respectively [1]. The shear modulus given by Flory’s theory is µ = v eRT, with v e the effective number of chains per unit volume at 6 temperature [2]. In most of the experiments, the gel is free of macroscopic shear constraints and hence the last term in Eq.(l) can be neglected when the system is far from the critical point. For this reason the analogy between the phase transition of the gel system and liquid-gas system is often used in discussion of the gel phase transitions. Near the critical point, this term will suppress the density fluctuations of the system.
Function and dysfunction of aPKC isoforms for glucose transport in insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant states.

Considerable evidence suggests that atypical protein kinase C isoforms (aPKCs), serving downstream of insulin receptor substrates and phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase, are required for insulin-st...
Role of elongation factor 2 in regulating peptide-chain elongation in the heart

Cardiac muscles of experimentally induced diabetic rats show a progressive decrease in the rate of protein synthesis. The decline in protein synthesis is associated with decreases in both the number and efficiency of cardiac ribosomes. In hearts from 48 h diabetic rats, the decrease in protein synthesis was accounted for solely by a 28% reduction in the ribosome content. In contrast, the inhibition of protein synthesis in hearts from 72 h diabetic rats resulted from a reduction in both the ribosome content (28%) and the translational efficiency (30%). The decreased translational efficiency was not associated with an increase of RNA in ribosomal subunits, indicating the defect resulted from an inhibition of peptide-chain elongation/termination. Diabetes of 72 h duration resulted in a 37% inhibition in the rate of peptide-chain elongation. The decreased rate of peptide-chain elongation was associated with a 66% reduction in the amount of elongation factor 2 (EF-2). Treatment of diabetic rats with insulin for 3 days was sufficient to reverse the effects of 72 h diabetes on protein synthesis, RNA content, and translational efficiency. Also, insulin therapy increased the EF-2 content of diabetic rats to control values. These studies suggest that decreased EF-2 content is a molecular mechanism for the impaired rates of peptide-chain elongation in diabetes.
Endoscopic resection of gastric and esophageal cancer

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) and endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) techniques have reduced the need for surgery in early esophageal and gastric cancers and thus has lessened morbidity and mortality in these diseases. ESD is a relatively new technique in western countries and requires rigorous training to reproduce the proficiency of Asian countries, such as Korea and Japan, which have very high complete (en bloc) resection rates and low complication rates. EMR plays a valuable role in early esophageal cancers. ESD has shown better en bloc resection rates but it is easier to master and maintain proficiency in EMR; it also requires less procedural time. For early esophageal adenocarcinoma arising from Barrett’s, ESD and EMR techniques are usually combined with other ablative modalities, the most common being radiofrequency ablation because it has the largest dataset to prove its success. The EMR techniques have been used with some success in early gastric cancers but ESD is currently preferred for most of these lesions. ESD has the added advantage of resecting into the submucosa and thus allowing for endoscopic resection of more aggressive (deeper) early gastric cancer.
Natural Uranium Contamination in Major U.S. Aquifers Linked to Nitrate

Groundwater geochemical data collected from two major U.S. aquifers, High Plains (HP) and Central Valley (CV), revealed naturally occurring groundwater uranium (U) exceeding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency maximum contaminant level (MCL = 30 μg/L) across 22375 km2 where 1.9 million people live. Analysis of geochemical parameters revealed a moderately strong correlation between U and nitrate, a common groundwater contaminant, as well as alkalinity and calcium [Spearman’s rho (ρ) ≥ 0.30; p < 0.001]. Nitrate is recognized to alter U solubility by oxidative dissolution of reduced U(IV) minerals. Approximately 78% of areas where U concentrations were interpolated above the MCL were correlated to the presence of nitrate (Pearson’s r ≥ 0.5; p < 0.05). Shallow groundwater was determined to be the most susceptible to co-contamination (HP, ρ = 0.46; CV, ρ = 0.52). Together, these results indicate that nitrate, a primary contaminant, should be considered as a factor leading to secondary groundwater U contam...
Social Drivers of Water Utility Privatization in the United States: An Examination of the Presence of Variegated Neoliberal Strategies in the Water Utility Sector

This study uses a logistic regression analysis to investigate the social drivers of water utility privatization in the United States at the local level. In order to do so I combine data gathered from the Environmental Protection Agency's 2012 Safe Drinking Water Information System database and use it in conjunction with the U.S. census's 2008–12 county-level demographic estimates. I use a logistic regression analysis in order to examine the relationship between theoretically relevant social factors and the probability of a privately owned or operated water system being located within a community. Key findings suggest that water utility privatization in the United States follows the logic of a variegated neoliberalism and constitutes a form of environmental injustice.
The System SrO - "Chromium Oxide" in Air and Oxygen.

Phase relations in the system SrO-"chromium oxide" were determined in air and 1 atm O2 (1 atm = 1.013 × 105 N/m2) and are shown as isobaric projections on the SrO-Cr2O3 pseudobinary. At both oxygen pressures, the system consists of three joins in the SrO-Cr2O3-oxygen ternary, (1) SrO-Sr3Cr2O8, (2) Sr3Cr2O8-SrCrO4, and (3) SrCrO4-Cr2O3. The former is binary from 1065 °C to liquidus temperatures in air and includes a eutectic near 79 mol percent SrO (in terms of SrO-Cr2O3 starting materials). Sr3Cr2O8 melts congruently at 1453 °C. Below 1065 °C in air, phase relations are complicated by reactions with atmospheric water vapor resulting in the formation of Sr10Cr6O24 (OH)2 which decomposes to SrO and Sr3Cr2O8 above 1065 °C. In air, below 775 °C, Sr3Cr2O8 reacts with water vapor and oxygen to form Sr10Cr6O24 (OH)2 and SrCrO4. Water vapor reactions are restricted in 1 atm O2. The Sr3Cr2O8-SrCrO4 join contains a binary eutectic between 69-70 mol percent SrO but liquidus relations are ternary below 69 (air) and 68 (oxygen) mol percent SrO, as reduction of Cr6+ occurs. Likewise, the SrCrO4-Cr2O3 join is not binary at solidus and liquidus temperatures. In air, SrCrO4 melts at 1251 °C to Cr2O3 plus liquid with release of oxygen. In oxygen, the compound melts at 1283 °C with evolution of oxygen.
The interrelation of fluoride and iron in anemia.

SummaryIt has been demonstrated that iron supplementation can completely prevent the anemia observed in 15-day-old mice raised on a low or high fluoride experimental diet. A higher fluoride intake was again shown to reduce the severity of the anemia seen in low fluoride animals. An increased fluoride intake has been shown to improve iron metabolism when animals were fed an experimental diet marginally adequate in its iron content. The young animals of the high fluoride group were found to have a higher total body iron content at 15 days of age than similar animals of the low fluoride group, although there was no appreciable difference in the iron content of the newborn. The higher fluoride intake of the dam also was shown to increase the iron content of the milk produced by the lactating dams, and the difference in concentration in the milk from animals in the two groups may account for the observation that there is a higher total body iron burden at 15 days of age in the high fluoride group. In older ani...
Sex-change in the USSR: A. I. Belkin’s Theory of Gender Development and his Treatment of Hermaphrodites

A. I. Belkin, head of the laboratory of neuro-endocrinology at Moscow’s Research Institute of Psychiatry, is primarily an endocrinologist. His work with hermaphrodites is a side-line (or, as he described it to me in a personal interview, his ‘hobby’!)1 Much has been written on the treatment of hermaphrodites in the West, and a brief review of the Western approach will provide a context for Belkin’s work.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses tests used to diagnose disorders related to hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal secretions. Dynamic testing procedures employed in the estimation of adrenal hypo- or hyperfunction are of three types—stimulation tests, suppression test, and repeated sampling for cortisol and/or adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Tests may stimulate the secretion of the adrenal cortex by exogenous administration of ACTH or stimulate endogenous secretion of ACTH following the administration of insulin or metyrapone. Suppression tests employ the administration of dexamethasone, although in unusual circumstances, cortisol may be employed to suppress ACTH secretion. Stimulation tests are utilized chiefly for the demonstration of normal adrenal reserve, thus indicating that there is sufficient adrenal tissue present for increased cortisol secretion to occur following ACTH administration. These tests are, thus, most useful in the demonstration of adrenal insufficiency but have also been found to have some application to the diagnosis of adrenal hyperfunction, particularly in the demonstration of partial enzyme deficiencies of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. A hyperactive response is characteristic of pituitary dependent Cushing's disease and lack of response is present in many but not all cortisol-secreting adrenal tumors.
Gastrointestinal Anatomy and Physiology

Abstract The digestive tract is not only important for nutrient digestion and absorption, but it is the largest immunological organ in the body protecting against exogenous pathogens. The digestive system has adaptations designed to facilitate flight. The length of the intestinal tract is shorter in birds relative to mammals. Also, birds lack teeth and heavy jaw muscles, which have been replaced with a lightweight bill or beak. Food particles are swallowed whole and then reduced in size by the ventriculus or gizzard located within the body cavity. This chapter will not attempt to describe the many species variations in detail but will instead describe differences between birds and mammals. The reader is referred to the excellent reviews by McLelland (1975, 1979) for specific information on various species.
The Chemical Potential of Water

The chemical potential of the solvent in a solution may be altered by changing the temperature and external pressure applied to the solution and by changing the mole fraction of the solute in the solution. For a homogeneous solution the change in chemical potential of the solvent is expressed as $$d{\mu _1}\, = \, - {\bar S_1}dt\, + \,{\bar V_1}dp\, + \,{{\partial {\mu _1}} \over {\partial {x_2}}}d{x_2}$$ (5) a thermodynamic statement which was derived as Eq. (5) in Chapter II. If the temperature and the externally applied pressure are held constant while changing the mole fraction from x2 = O for pure solvent to \({x_2}\, = \,{{{n_2}} \over {{n_1} + {n_1}}}\) for the solution, then the total change in the chemical potential of the solvent for this homogeneous solution becomes $$\Delta {\mu _1}\, = \,{\int {d\mu } _1}\, = \,\int_{{x_{2\,}} = \,\,o}^{{x_{2\, = \,{{{n_2}} \over {{n_{1\,}} + {n_2}}}}}} {{{\partial {\mu _1}} \over {\partial {x_2}}}} d{x_2}.$$
Behavioral pieces of neuroethological puzzles.

In this review, I give a first-person account of surprising insights that have come from the behavioral dimension of neuroethological studies in my laboratory. These studies include the early attempts to understand the function of the nose in star-nosed moles and to explore its representation in the neocortex. This led to the discovery of a somatosensory fovea that parallels the visual fovea of primates in several ways. Subsequent experiments to investigate the assumed superiority of star-nosed moles to their relatives when locating food led to the unexpected discovery of stereo olfaction in common moles. The exceptional olfactory abilities of common moles, in turn, helped to explain an unusual bait-collecting technique called “worm-grunting” in the American southeast. Finally, the predatory behavior of tentacled snakes was best understood not by exploring their nervous system, but rather by considering fish nervous systems. These experiences highlight the difficulty of predicting the abilities of animals that have senses foreign to the investigator, and also the rewards of discovering the unexpected.
The role of mucoactive agents in the mechanically ventilated patient: a review of the literature

ABSTRACTIntroduction: The management of airway secretions in the mechanically ventilated patient is a routine task throughout all intensive care units. The current treatment strategies are primarily based on anecdotal experiences rather than statistical evidence.Areas covered: This review article evaluates the data from published trials surrounding mucoactive agents and their use in the critically ill patient population. We completed an extensive search through PUBMED and CINAHL via EBSCO, along with the Cochran library to find all trials using mucoactive agents in the critically ill patient population.Expert commentary: Overall, the role of mucoactive agents in the intensive care unit is a field within pulmonary critical care that is in need of evidence-based recommendations. We feel that there is great opportunity for investigators to evaluate different mucoactive therapies in this patient population and to determine their effect on clinical outcomes.
Immunoglobulin isotype switching of antibodies to vimentin is associated with development of transplant glomerulopathy following human renal transplantation.

Abstract Background Immune responses to tissue-restricted self-antigens are thought to play a role in chronic rejection after solid organ transplantation. De novo development of antibodies (Abs) to vimentin have been reported to be associated with interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy after kidney transplant, and it has been suggested that immunoglobulin isotype switching of Abs to vimentin may occur during this process. We aimed to determine the correlation between immunoglobulin isotype switching of Abs to vimentin and development of transplant glomerulopathy (TG) after kidney transplant, and to determine whether citrullinated modification of vimentin is required for de novo anti-vimentin development. Methods Sera were collected from 24 patients with TG (diagnosed on biopsy), 24 matched stable kidney transplant recipients (KTxRs) and 22 normal healthy subjects who did not undergo transplant. Serum vimentin Abs concentrations were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Immunoglobulin isotypes of anti-vimentin were determined using isotype-specific Abs conjugated with horseradish peroxidase. Samples were considered positive to vimentin Abs if the values were above mean + 2 × standard deviations of the levels in the healthy control subjects. Specificities of anti-vimentin for mutated citrullinated vimentin and anti-mutated citrullinated vimentin were measured by ELISA. Results In this retrospective analysis of 24 KTxRs with TG, 16/24 (67%) patients with biopsy-proven TG developed Abs to vimentin (645 ± 427 ng/ml). In contrast, only 4/24 (17%) stable KTxRs had detectable Abs to vimentin (275 ± 293 ng/ml; p = 0.001). Of the patients with TG, 15/24 (63%) developed Abs to vimentin of IgG isotype (572 ± 276 ng/ml), whereas only 6/24 (25%) stable KTxRs (310 ± 288 ng/ml) had anti-vimentin of IgG isotype (p = 0.002). However, no significant difference was noted in the concentration of IgM isotype anti-vimentin between KTxRs with TG (9/24 [38%], 407 ± 401 ng/ml) and stable KTxRs (5/24 [21%], 348 ± 439 ng/ml; p = 0.631). The serum concentration of Abs specific for the mutated form of citrullinated vimentin was not significantly different between KTxRs with TG and stable KTxRs. Conclusions Patients with biopsy-proven TG demonstrated significantly increased levels of anti-vimentin Abs of the IgG isotype compared with stable KTxRs. Anti-vimentin in stable KTxRs was primarily of IgM isotype. Therefore, the observed isotype switching of anti-vimentin from IgM to IgG isotype strongly suggests ongoing immune responses to vimentin in KTxRs diagnosed with TG. Furthermore, as opposed to patients with rheumatoid arthritis (who develop immune responses primarily to citrullinated vimentin), KTxRs diagnosed with TG developed immune responses to non-citrullinated vimentin, suggesting that modification of vimentin protein via citrullination is not required for the de novo anti-vimentin response seen in patients with TG.
High-speed simulation of modular multilevel converters for optimization based design

Modular Multilevel Converters (MMC) are being widely considered for shipboard applications. Designing such converters through multi-objective optimization is of interest, because such an approach allows the trade-off between competing objectives (for example, mass and loss) to be explicitly and quantitatively identified. However, doing so can require 104–106 time domain simulations in order to rigorously explore the design space. In this work, a computationally efficient simulation is developed to estimate the MMC waveforms. While the existing literature sets forth average-value models for transient studies of MMCs, fast waveform-level models are still needed. This work presents a suitable approach which is validated against a detailed simulation model.
Embolization of a traumatic arteriovenous fistula between the middle meningeal artery and middle meningeal vein in a child with pulsatile tinnitus.

Traumatic arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) involving the middle meningeal artery (MMA) are uncommon lesions and rare in the pediatric population. An adolescent with headaches developed a bruit and a rhythmic “swooshing” noise in the left ear 9 weeks after a traumatic brain injury involving a left temporal bone fracture. An MRA of the brain demonstrated an enlarged left MMA and arterialized flow in the left middle meningeal vein (MMV), suggestive of an AVF. Cerebral angiography confirmed and characterized the left MMA-MMV fistula, which drained into the pterygoid plexus. The patient underwent transarterial coil embolization, with successful obliteration of the fistulous connection, and her tinnitus resolved. This case illustrates the importance of recognizing a post-traumatic AVF in a pediatric patient with pulsatile tinnitus, and that endovascular treatment by coil embolization is a safe and effective treatment option.
Discrete Mathematics and the Affective Dimension of Mathematical Learning and Engagement

This paper describes certain characteristics of discrete mathematics that can enable teachers to evoke student interest and engagement , and develop students’ powerful affect in relation to math—emotion s, attitudes, beliefs, and values. Special affordances of discrete mathematics include interesting topics arising in familiar settings , special cases that are easy to set up and explore, a variety of natural representation s embodying mathematical structures, and few prerequisites needed for in-depth inquiry. We also list several possible domain-specific sources of commonly-occurring math anxiety (long-term negative affect ) which can be ameliorated through effective teaching making use of these features of discrete mathematics . An example from game theory illustrates our suggested approach. Pitfalls are also identified, including the too-early introduction of formal definitions, theorems, and problem-solving algorithms, or (alternatively) the relegation of discrete mathematics to a “slow track ” in the curriculum .
Biogeochemical weathering of soil apatite grains in the McMurdo Dry Valleys, Antarctica

Abstract The biogeochemical weathering of the mineral apatite links the lithosphere to the biosphere by releasing the essential nutrient phosphorus (P) into the soil ecosystem. In Taylor Valley, Antarctica, faster rates of apatite weathering may be responsible for the higher concentrations of bioavailable soil P that exist in the Fryxell Basin as compared to the Bonney Basin. In this study, we use scanning electron microscopy to quantify the morphology and surface etching of individual apatite grains to determine whether the degree of apatite weathering differs between the Fryxell and Bonney Basins as well as saturated and dry soil sediments. We show that apatite grains from the Fryxell Basin are rounder, have fewer intact crystal faces, and are more chemically etched than grains from the Bonney Basin. In the Bonney Basin, apatite grains from dry soils show few signs of chemical dissolution, suggesting that soil moisture is a stronger control on the rate of apatite weathering in the Bonney Basin than in the Fryxell Basin. In addition, etch-pit morphologies in the Bonney Basin are more clearly controlled by the hexagonal crystal structure of apatite, while in the Fryxell Basin, etch pits demonstrate a wide range of morphologies without clear crystallographic control. Higher rates of apatite weathering in the Fryxell Basin may be due to the legacy of the physical abrasion of apatite grains during transport by a warm-based ice sheet, as well as the higher levels of precipitation and soil moisture closer to the coast. Our grain-scale approach provides a new perspective on P cycling in the McMurdo Dry Valleys and has implications for apatite weathering and P dynamics in the early stages of soil development.
284 REGULATION OF PROENKEPHALIN mRNA AND LEUCINE-ENKEPHALIN IN EXPLANTED RAT ADRENAL MEDULLAE

Impulse activity differentially regulates enkephalinergic and catecholaminergic (CA) transmitter phenotypic characteristics in rat adrenal medullae in vivo and in vitro (LaGarama, et al, Science 224:1102, 1984). Adult male rat adrenal medullae, grown as explants for 4 days, show a 50-fold rise in leu-enkephalin-like immunoreactivity (LEU) following a 2 day plateau period. To further characterize cellular mechanisms governing the rise in LEU, 2 1/2 day cultured medullae were treated with inhibitors of protein, RNA, and DNA synthesis. Cycloheximide completely prevented the rise in LEU, while Actinamycin-D prevented 50% of the increase. Cytosine arabinoside had no effect. To begin characterizing the molecular level of regulation, proenkephalin mRNA was measured in this culture system using a 918 base pair cDNA probe. Proenkephalin mRNA levels in 2 and 4 day explants revealed a striking increase in proenkephalin mRNA which preceded the rise in LEU and could be prevented by depolarization. These data suggest tht ongoing synthesis of both mRNA and protein is required to increase LEU. This culture system may permit characterization of the gencmic processes involved in transsynaptic regulation of CA and LEU in explanted adrenal medullary cells. (Supported by NIH Grants HL00756, NS10259 and HD12108).
From M’Naghten to Hinckley

M’Naghten, having been found innocent by reason of insanity, was led away to Bethlem; the Justices, having dealt with those thorny questions posed by the House of Lords, retired; and the Lords, satisfied with the Judge’s rules, adjourned. The applause from the House of Lords had barely died down when the doubters and detractors took over. The M’Naghten Rules were quickly attacked on a variety of fronts, with the critical chorus containing a curious mix of bedfellows; ironically, the Rules were attacked by some for being too liberal and by others for being too conservative. What is today’s discord over the insanity defense was yesterday’s disarray.
Surgery of the Nasal Tip

Three techniques of nasal tip cartilage modifications are discussed in detail: the delivery, retroversion, and split (intracartilaginous) techniques. Ancillary procedures of the nasal tip, such as septoplasty without decreasing support, secondary surgery and post-traumatic nasal tip problems, and the rationale for various procedures are discussed.
Early prostate cancer: the national results of radiation treatment from the Patterns of Care and Radiation Therapy Oncology Group studies with prospects for improvement with conformal radiation and adjuvant androgen deprivation.

AbstractLong-term outcome of the Patterns of Care Study and the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group are used to demonstrate the national average results of treating early prostate cancer in the United States. A group of patients with stage T1B2 disease and pathologically negative lymph nodes showed excellent 10-year survival rates and freedom from clinical evidence of disease, while prostate specific antigen (PSA) correlations in 10-year survivors indicate that 88% were clinically free of cancer and had a PSA level of less than 4.0 mg./nl., and 65% had a PSA level of less than 1.5 ng./ml. The latter group represented clinical and biochemical cures.The improvement noted in outcome of locally advanced prostate cancer treatment by Radiation Therapy Oncology Group prospective trials combining androgen deprivation and radiation therapy is presented. These trials will be extended to the poor prognosis group with stage Tl,2 disease. The advantages of conformal therapy in acute and late morbidity are illustrated wit...
Allergic Respiratory Disease

Allergic rhinitis and extrinsic allergic alveolitis are the most common allergic disorders of the bovine respiratory system. Environmental and management factors play significant roles in the pathogenesis of these disorders. When compared to infectious or toxic respiratory disease, allergic respiratory disease is relatively rare and of far less economic importance in North American cattle; however, the environmental and management conditions conducive to these diseases exist in many regions. Therefore, familiarity with the clinical and epidemiologic features of these unique diseases will aid the veterinarian in establishing an accurate diagnosis. Signs of respiratory dysfunction are common to anaphylactic and anaphylactoid reactions. Early recognition of these adverse reactions will provide the practitioner with the greatest chance of successful treatment.
Including Private Health Care Costs in Measuring Nations’ Redistributive Effort

Because they do not account for the private component of household’s health care expenses, measures of nations’ redistributive effort inconsistently account for the financial burden their health-care system places on different households. We recalculate the effect of government policy on income distribution by adjusting household income not just for taxes and social transfers, but also for private health expenditures. Examining eight LIS datasets, we show the degree of bias in typical measures of post-government income distribution. In Switzerland and the U.S., for instance, post-government poverty rates climb by 3-4 percentage points once households’ private medical expenses are subtracted from income. Future assessments of governments’ redistributive effect should uniformly account for the distributional impact of their health-care financing policies.
Anesthesia and Outpatient Surgery

In 1970 when the Outpatient Surgery Unit at the Mason Clinic opened, the question was could certain minor surgical procedures requiring anesthesia be performed on an outpatient basis without sacrificing safety or quality. Experience has demonstrated that the question now is not can, but how must the service be furnished. Modification of routine general anesthetic techniques by eliminating premedicant drugs, use of short-acting and intravenous induction agents and short-acting gaseous anesthetics (primarily halothane) have proved safe and effective. Likewise, short-acting local anesthetic drugs, gently and skillfully administered, have made regional nerve block a technique preferable in at least 50% of the patients. The concern that patient physical status, duration of surgery, or inability to monitor postsurgical complications would limit the usefulness of outpatient surgery have proven groundless. With proper anesthetic management any surgical procedure which would not require hospitalization for postoperative observation can be done on an outpatient basis.
A dynamic modelling method for dynamic wireless charging system of electric vehicles based on dual LCL non-resonant compensation

This paper starts with a mutual inductance coupling model and takes compensation structure of 'series connection-series connection' as an example to respectively deduce the mathematical expressions for system output power and efficiency when traditional resonant compensation strategy and non-resonant compensation strategy are adopted, so as to compare the advantages and disadvantages of the two strategies from the aspect of influence of coupling coefficient change on the output power and efficiency. Then, to cope with the drawbacks of non-resonant compensation strategy, a dynamic modelling method for electromobile's dynamic wireless charging system based on dual-LCL non-resonant compensation is proposed to analyse the structure's function of improving the system's power transmission capacity and determination method of different component parameters from the perspectives of circuit equivalence and impedance conversion. Models are built for rectifier and filter circuit, DC-DC circuit and loading battery pack for receiving terminal, and the characteristics of each link are expressed mathematically.
1329 Surgical Management of Longitudinal Vaginal Septum and Complete Uterine Septum

Video Objective To illustrate the steps for surgical correction of a longitudinal vaginal septum and complete uterine septum using narrative video footage. Setting A longitudinal vaginal septum and complete uterine septum are anomalies of Mullerian duct development that occur during embryological development. The exact incidence of Mullerian anomalies is difficult to determine, since women with them are often not diagnosed if asymptomatic, but is approximately 2-3%. In women who present with infertility, the incidence of uterine anomalies is often higher, approximately 5-10%. Although some women with vaginal anomalies are asymptomatic, some may note difficulty inserting tampons or dyspareunia. Reproductive outcomes in women with a complete uterine septum include possible decreased chance of implantation, and increased risk of spontaneous abortion and preterm labor/delivery. Benefits of surgical correction of a uterine septum include possible improved reproductive success and decreased poor obstetric outcomes. Interventions In this video, we illustrate the key surgical steps of excision of a longitudinal vaginal septum and hysteroscopic metroplasty for a complete uterine septum resection. Key surgical steps include: 1. Exam under anesthesia Lidocaine with epinephrine injection into vaginal septum. 2. Excision of septum with mayo scissors and re-approximation of vaginal mucosal edges. 3. Dilation of one side of cervical canal and placement of pediatric foley catheter to instill methylene blue-dyed fluid. 4. Hysteroscopic incision of septum using bipolar resectoscope until blue dye is visualized. 5. Complete incision of uterine septum. 6. Placement of uterine balloon for endometrial healing. 7. Vaginal packing placed to promote vaginal healing. Conclusion Surgical management of a longitudinal vaginal septum and complete uterine septum is a minimally invasive procedure to correct these Mullerian anomalies that could impact a woman's quality of life and possible reproductive success in the future.
Apes and anticitizens: simianization and U.S. national identity discourse

Within the literature on public opinion, the mainstream framework is that in-group and out-group attitudes are distinct phenomena, especially with regard to racial attitudes. Elsewhere, in the lite...