cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Solid-state extrusion of chain-extended polyethylene

Billets of chain-extended polyethylene were prepared from Alathon 7050 (Mw 59,000, Mn 19,000) in an Instron capillary rheometer by crystallization at a constant pressure of 460 MPa, at a series of teimperatures from 198 to 221°C corresponding to varying degrees of undercooling. This gives chain-extended morphologies with a range of crystallinites and lamellar thicknesses. The billets were then solid-state extruded at 100°C through a conical die with 20° entrance angle up to an extrusion draw ration 23.4. Thermal behavior was studied with differential scanning calorimetry. The orientation function measured by wide-angle x-ray diffraction showed higher orientation function measured by wide-angle x-ray diffraction showed higher orientation at equivalent draw ratio when the initial billets were crystallized at lower temperatures. Drawing efficiency, defined as the ratio of molecular draw ratio (from shrinkage) to extrusion draw ratio correspondingly increases, reaching a maximum of 0.71 in our solid-state extrusion. These studies show that highly chain-extended polyethylene, i.e., with few chain entanglements, draws poorly. Drawability was improved by increasing chain entanglements by lowering the crystallization temperature. Electron micrographs of fracture surface replicas of extrudates revealed the coexistence of undeformed, tilted, partially drawn lamellae and fibrillar structure consistent with the cahange of morphologies in Peterlin's model of plastic deformation.
A critical analysis of secondary overtriage to a Level I trauma center.

BACKGROUND: Trauma centers often receive transfers from lower-level trauma centers or nontrauma hospitals. The aim of this study wasto analyze the incidence and pattern of secondary overtriage to our Level I trauma center.METHODS: We performed a 2-year retrospective analysis of all trauma patients transferred to our Level I trauma center and dischargedwithin 24hoursof admission. Reasonfor referral,referring specialty, modeof transport,and intervention detailswere collected.Outcomes measures were incidence of secondary overtriage as well as requirement of major or minor procedure. Major proce-durewas deﬁned as surgical intervention in the operating room. Minor procedureswere deﬁned as procedures performed in theemergency department.RESULTS: A total of 1,846 patients were transferred to our Level I trauma center, of whom 440 (24%) were discharged within 24 hoursof admission. The mean (SD) age was 35 (21) years, 72% were male, and mean (SD) Injury Severity Score (ISS) 4 (4). Themost common reasons for referral were extremity fractures (31%), followed by head injury (23%) and soft tissue injuries (13%).Of the 440 patients discharged within 24 hours, 380 (86%) required only observation (268 of 380) or minor procedure (112of 380). Minor procedureswere entirely consisted offracture management (n = 47, 42%) and wound care (n = 65, 58%). Themean (SD) interfacility transfer distance was 45 (46) miles. Mean (SD) hospital charges per transfer were $12,549 ($5,863).CONCLUSION: A signiﬁcant number of patients transferred to our trauma center were discharged within 24 hours; most of them requiredobservation and/or minor procedures. Appropriately increasing primary hospital resources, in addition to interhospital outreachintheformofeducationortelemedicine,shouldbeconsideredtodecreasethenumberofavoidabletransfers.(JTraumaAcuteCare Surg. 2014;77: 969Y973. Copyright * 2014 by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins)LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Epidemiologic study, level III.KEY WORDS: Overtriage; triage; transfers; referrals; minimal injury.
A NOVEL TETRODE MICRODRIVE FOR SIMULTANEOUS MULTI-NEURON RECORDING FROM DIFFERENT REGIONS OF PRIMATE BRAIN

A unique custom-made tetrode microdrive for recording from large numbers of neurons in several areas of primate brain is described as a means for assessing simultaneous neural activity in cortical and subcortical structures in nonhuman primates (NHPs) performing behavioral tasks. The microdrive device utilizes tetrode technology with up to six ultra-thin microprobe guide tubes (0.1mm) that can be independently positioned, each containing reduced diameter tetrode and/or hexatrode microwires (0.02 mm) for recording and isolating single neuron activity. The microdrive device is mounted within the standard NHP cranial well and allows traversal of brain depths up to 40.0 mm. The advantages of this technology are demonstrated via simultaneously recorded large populations of neurons with tetrode type probes during task performance from a) primary motor cortex and deep brain structures (caudate-putamen and hippocampus) and b) multiple layers within the prefrontal cortex. The means to characterize interactions of well-isolated ensembles of neurons recorded simultaneously from different regions, as shown with this device, has not been previously available for application in primate brain. The device has extensive application to primate models for the detection and study of inoperative or maladaptive neural circuits related to human neurological disorders.
Reconstruction of 4D deformed CT for moving anatomy

Purpose To develop a 4DCT reconstruction technique that improves time resolution when the anatomy moves with respiration.
Transition of interband optical absorption in reduced-dimensional semiconductor structures

We present theoretical analyses of interband optical absorption in quasi-zero-, quasi-one-, and quasi-two-dimensional semiconductor structures with varying structure sizes. In calculating the absorption coefficients, we have taken into account the broadening effect of the absorption line. Analytical results show that the absorption spectra strongly depend on the line-broadening effect, and that the transition of the absorption spectrum between structures with a smaller dimensionality difference occurs at smaller structure size. For GaAs structures the transition occurs at about 0.1 \ensuremath{\mu}m, when the dimensionality difference is 1.
On the diffusion theory of phyllotaxis

Abstract An inhibitor diffusion theory of phyllotaxis is examined in the steady-state approximation for cylindrical shoot apex models. The model calculations give rise naturally to common patterns of spiral phyllotaxis, as well as to higher whorled patterns. The model also predicts commonly observed subpatterns of axillary organs superimposed on primary phyllotaxis patterns. Application of the model to phyllotaxis patterns in other organisms and in flowers is proposed.
Distribution and Quantification of Antibiotic Resistant Genes and Bacteria across Agricultural and Non-Agricultural Metagenomes

There is concern that antibiotic resistance can potentially be transferred from animals to humans through the food chain. The relationship between specific antibiotic resistant bacteria and the genes they carry remains to be described. Few details are known about the ecology of antibiotic resistant genes and bacteria in food production systems, or how antibiotic resistance genes in food animals compare to antibiotic resistance genes in other ecosystems. Here we report the distribution of antibiotic resistant genes in publicly available agricultural and non-agricultural metagenomic samples and identify which bacteria are likely to be carrying those genes. Antibiotic resistance, as coded for in the genes used in this study, is a process that was associated with all natural, agricultural, and human-impacted ecosystems examined, with between 0.7 to 4.4% of all classified genes in each habitat coding for resistance to antibiotic and toxic compounds (RATC). Agricultural, human, and coastal-marine metagenomes have characteristic distributions of antibiotic resistance genes, and different bacteria that carry the genes. There is a larger percentage of the total genome associated with antibiotic resistance in gastrointestinal-associated and agricultural metagenomes compared to marine and Antarctic samples. Since antibiotic resistance genes are a natural part of both human-impacted and pristine habitats, presence of these resistance genes in any specific habitat is therefore not sufficient to indicate or determine impact of anthropogenic antibiotic use. We recommend that baseline studies and control samples be taken in order to determine natural background levels of antibiotic resistant bacteria and/or antibiotic resistance genes when investigating the impacts of veterinary use of antibiotics on human health. We raise questions regarding whether the underlying biology of each type of bacteria contributes to the likelihood of transfer via the food chain.
Chronic exposure to 60-Hz electric fields: effects on pineal function in the rat.

As a component of studies to search for effects of 60-Hz electric field exposure on mammalian endocrine function, concentrations of melatonin, 5-methoxytryptophol, and serotonin-N-acetyl transferase activity were measured in the pineal glands of rats exposed or sham-exposed at 65 kV/m for 30 days.In two replicate experiments there were statistically significant differences between exposed and control rats in that the normal nocturnal increase in pineal melatonin content was depressed in the exposed animals. Concentrations of 5-methoxytryptophol were increased in the pineal glands of the exposed groups when compared to sham-exposed controls. An alteration was also observed in serotonin-N-acetyl transferase activity, with lower levels measured in pineal glands from exposed animals.
Using a cosine-type measure to derive strong association mining rules

Association mining rule algorithms have two major drawbacks – the need to repeatedly scan the dataset and the generation of too many association rules. In this paper we present an algorithm that concentrates on addressing these drawbacks. We present a correlation based association mining rule algorithm, implemented using an arraylist structure in JAVA, that does not require more than one scan of the full dataset and generates far lot less strong association mining rules. The correlation criteria used is a cosine-type measure.
Percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty of mitral stenosis aided by cardiac ultrasound

Abstract Recent reports1–6 have established the feasibility of percutaneous balloon dilation of stenotic mitral valves. The standard transseptal technique used for this procedure was modified by Lock et al2 to include dilation with an 8-mm balloon catheter of the ostium created in the atrial septum. Successful transseptal delivery of the larger balloons required for mitral valve dilation depends on an adequate-sized atrial septostomy; too small a defect may interfere with advancement of the valvular dilation catheter toward the mitral orifice. The present report describes the manner in which 2-dimensional (2-D) echocardiography was successfully used to monitor delivery of the valvular dilation catheter across the atrial septum and through the mitral orifice.
FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE IN NORTH AMERICAN BISON (BISON BISON) AND ELK (CERVUS ELAPHUS NELSONI): SUSCEPTIBILITY, INTRA- AND INTERSPECIES TRANSMISSION, CLINICAL SIGNS, AND LESIONS

There is limited information about the pathogenesis and epidemiology of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in North American bison (Bison bison) or elk (Cervus elaphus nelsoni). In these two experimental infection studies, we compared the susceptibilities of bison and elk to FMD virus (FMDV), respectively, with that of cattle; determined whether intra- and interspecies transmission could occur in bison and cattle, and elk and cattle; determined suitability of conventional available laboratory tests to detect FMDV infection in bison and elk; and investigated whether bison or elk are efficient long-term carriers of FMDV. In both studies, after a period of acclimation to the containment at Plum Island Animal Disease Center, animals were infected by intraepithelial tongue inoculation with 10,000 bovine tongue infective doses of FMDV, strain O1 Manisa. Inoculated animals were kept with contact animals; subsequently, inoculated and/or exposed contact animals were placed in rooms with unexposed animals. All bison developed oral mucosal and foot lesions similar to those of cattle. Bison developed fever, lameness, inappetence, and ptyalism. Physical examinations on bison revealed numerous small vesicles and erosions affecting tongue, gingiva, muzzle, hard and soft palates, coronary bands, and interdigital skin. Inoculated elk developed transient fever and mild focal tongue and foot lesions. Contact elk developed neither clinical signs nor gross pathologic lesions of FMD. At necropsy, lesions in bison included numerous extensive vesicles, erosions, and/or ulcers in the oral cavities, feet, and rumen pillars depending on the stage of disease. Less extensive oral, foot, and rumen lesions were present in the inoculated elk. All bison and inoculated elk developed antibodies to FMDV and were positive for FMDV by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Transmission occurred between cattle and bison, and bison and bison. It did not occur between elk and cattle. Elk-to-elk transmission studies resulted in only one contact elk developing serologic evidence of a subclinical infection. Other exposed elk developed neither clinical, pathologic, virologic, nor serologic evidence of disease. FMDV was not isolated from animals past 28 days postinfection.
Mechanisms of the scaffold subunit in facilitating protein phosphatase 2A methylation

The function of the biologically essential protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) relies on formation of diverse heterotrimeric holoenzymes, which involves stable association between PP2A scaffold (A) and catalytic (C or PP2Ac) subunits and binding of variable regulatory subunits. Holoenzyme assembly is highly regulated by carboxyl methylation of PP2Ac-tail; methylation of PP2Ac and association of the A and C subunits are coupled to activation of PP2Ac. Here we showed that PP2A-specific methyltransferase, LCMT-1, exhibits a higher activity toward the core enzyme (A-C heterodimer) than free PP2Ac, and the A-subunit facilitates PP2A methylation via three distinct mechanisms: 1) stabilization of a proper protein fold and an active conformation of PP2Ac; 2) limiting the space of PP2Ac-tail movement for enhanced entry into the LCMT-1 active site; and 3) weak electrostatic interactions between LCMT-1 and the N-terminal HEAT repeats of the A-subunit. Our results revealed a new function and novel mechanisms of the A-subunit in PP2A methylation, and coherent control of PP2A activity, methylation, and holoenzyme assembly.
Preoperative functional health status may predict outcomes after elective colorectal surgery for malignancy.

Several studies suggest that preoperative functional health status (FHS) affects postoperative outcomes after ventral hernia repair, hepatic resections, and infrainguinal by-pass surgery. However, little is known about the proficiency of FHS in terms of preoperative outcome prediction of patients who undergo elective resection for colorectal cancer. All patients who underwent elective colorectal resections for malignancy between 2005 and 2009 were identified from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. We classified patients into three groups according to their preoperative FHS: independent (IND), partially dependent (PDN), and totally dependent (TDN). Multivariable techniques were used to evaluate the impact of FHS on postoperative outcomes. Outcomes of laparoscopic and open procedures in patients with dependent FHS were also compared. In total, 25,591 patients included (94.2 % IND, 5.1 % PDN, and 0.71 % TDN). Surgical, infectious, pulmonary, cardiovascular, renal, neurological complications, and mortality rate showed a linear progression that paralleled a decline in preoperative FHS of the patients (p < 0.05). Laparoscopic technique was associated with better outcomes in terms of reduced length of total hospital stay, decreased infectious complication rate, and mortality with comparable operating time in patients with dependent (PDN and TDN) FHS (p < 0.05). Functional health status may predict postoperative outcomes after colorectal cancer surgery. A detailed preoperative evaluation, providing an optimization period before surgery if necessary, and increased utilization of laparoscopic technique may improve outcomes after elective colorectal resections for malignancy in patients who are partially or TDN.
Rectification of ionic current in a nanofluidic diode.

We demonstrate rectification of ionic transport in a nanofluidic diode fabricated by introducing a surface charge discontinuity in a nanofluidic channel. Device current−voltage (I−V) characteristics agree qualitatively with a one-dimensional model at moderate to high ionic concentrations. This study illustrates ionic flow control using surface charge patterning in nanofluidic channels under high bias voltages.
A role for thrombospondin-1 deficits in astrocyte-mediated spine and synaptic pathology in Down's syndrome.

BackgroundDown's syndrome (DS) is the most common genetic cause of mental retardation. Reduced number and aberrant architecture of dendritic spines are common features of DS neuropathology. However, the mechanisms involved in DS spine alterations are not known. In addition to a relevant role in synapse formation and maintenance, astrocytes can regulate spine dynamics by releasing soluble factors or by physical contact with neurons. We have previously shown impaired mitochondrial function in DS astrocytes leading to metabolic alterations in protein processing and secretion. In this study, we investigated whether deficits in astrocyte function contribute to DS spine pathology.Methodology/Principal FindingsUsing a human astrocyte/rat hippocampal neuron coculture, we found that DS astrocytes are directly involved in the development of spine malformations and reduced synaptic density. We also show that thrombospondin 1 (TSP-1), an astrocyte-secreted protein, possesses a potent modulatory effect on spine number and morphology, and that both DS brains and DS astrocytes exhibit marked deficits in TSP-1 protein expression. Depletion of TSP-1 from normal astrocytes resulted in dramatic changes in spine morphology, while restoration of TSP-1 levels prevented DS astrocyte-mediated spine and synaptic alterations. Astrocyte cultures derived from TSP-1 KO mice exhibited similar deficits to support spine formation and structure than DS astrocytes.Conclusions/SignificanceThese results indicate that human astrocytes promote spine and synapse formation, identify astrocyte dysfunction as a significant factor of spine and synaptic pathology in the DS brain, and provide a mechanistic rationale for the exploration of TSP-1-based therapies to treat spine and synaptic pathology in DS and other neurological conditions.
Esters of Bicyclic Aminoalcohols IV: Local Anesthetic Esters Derived from 2-Hydroxyquinolizidine

Several pairs of substituted benzoate esters derived from 2-hydroxyquinolizidine and 3-(2-methyIpipueridino)propanoI were synthesized in order to enable comparison of each pair for relative duration of local anesthetic activity in the rabbit cornea. The tests indicate, in general, the 2-hydroxyquinolizidine esters provided a greater duration of activity than the corresponding esters of 3-(2-metbylpiperidino)-propanol. Some of the implications of this increase in duration of action with respect to the structures are discussed.
The influence of the nerve on lower jaw regeneration in the adult newt, Triturus viridescens.

The present investigation was undertaken in an attempt to determine the role played by the nerve in the regeneration of the lower jaw of the adult newt, Triturus viridescens. The results indicated that the number of nerve fibers normally available at the amputation surface was very low compared with that of the newt forelimb. Furthermore, denervation of the lower jaw reduced the number of nerve fibers available to an extremely low level and maintained the number at a low level for up to four weeks without intervening redenervations. The regenerative events in the denervated and amputated lower jaws were indistinguishable histologically from those in amputated jaws having normal innervation. This presented an apparent exception to the general rule that regeneration of external body parts is dependent on the nerve. Several possible explanations are proposed by which this apparent exception might be explained. The process following amputation might be an exaggerated form of wound healing and tissue regeneration which can occur in the absence of nerves. The tissues of the lower jaw might be more sensitive to the influence of those nerve fibers present. The nerve fibers themselves might be qualitatively different and thus exert a greater influence on the tissues.
Differentiation-Specific Histone Modifications Reveal Dynamic Chromatin Interactions and Partners for the Intestinal Transcription Factor CDX2

Cell differentiation requires remodeling of tissue-specific gene loci and activities of key transcriptional regulators, which are recognized for their dominant control over cellular programs. Using epigenomic methods, we characterized enhancer elements specifically modified in differentiating intestinal epithelial cells and found enrichment of transcription factor-binding motifs corresponding to CDX2, a critical regulator of the intestine. Directed investigation revealed surprising lability in CDX2 occupancy of the genome, with redistribution from hundreds of sites occupied only in proliferating cells to thousands of new sites in differentiated cells. Knockout mice confirmed distinct Cdx2 requirements in dividing and mature adult intestinal cells, including responsibility for the active enhancer configuration associated with maturity. Dynamic CDX2 occupancy corresponds with condition-specific gene expression and, importantly, to differential co-occupancy with other tissue-restricted transcription factors, such as GATA6 and HNF4A. These results reveal dynamic, context-specific functions and mechanisms of a prominent transcriptional regulator within a cell lineage.
X chromosome gene dosage compensation in female mammals

Abstract Dosage compensation for X chromosome-linked genes is achieved in female mammals by the transcriptional inactivation of one of the two X chromosomes during embryogenesis. The mechanism by which thousands of genes on only one of a pair of apparently identical chromosomes is turned off represents one of the most fascinating problems in mammalian genetics. Recent data, including the identification of a gene (XIST) exclusively expressed by the inactive X chromosome, may open the way to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying X chromosome inactivation.
Attending to two fingers: two hands are better than one.

The ability of subjects to attend to vibrotactile patterns presented to two fingers was explored in several experiments. The patterns were generated by two 6 column × 24 row tactile arrays. In one set of measurements, the arrays were placed in contact with the subjects’ left index and middle fingers. Both discrimination and identification tasks suggested that there was an attentional deficit in processing patterns presented simultaneously to these two fingers. A pattern presented to either the middle or index finger was identified both more accurately and more rapidly than was the same pattern divided in half and presented to two fingers. Patterns were also presented to two fingers on opposite hands, and performance measures were taken on pattern-identification tasks, on discrimination tasks, and on tasks that required subjects to combine pattern information from two fingers. All three measures showed performance to improve when the patterns were presented to two fingers on opposite hands relative to when they were presented to two fingers on the same hand. The results are interpreted to suggest, first, that subjects can process patterns simultaneously presented to two fingers on the same hand, but with some deficit due to attentional mechanisms, and second, that information from patterns presented to two fingers is processed differently depending on whether the two fingers are on the same or on different hands. There is much less of an attentional deficit in processing patterns presented simultaneously to two fingers on opposite hands.
Lead myocarditis: report of a case

Abstract A case of lead myocarditis is reported. A review of the medical literature since 1916 indicates that this represents the first reported case.
Catalytic nanoparticles for carbon nanotube growth synthesized by through thin film femtosecond laser ablation

The synthesis of metal nanoparticles by femtosecond laser vaporization of nm-thickness metal films is explored with the goal of comparing the salient features of femtosecond-based through thin film laser ablation (TTFA) to that of ns TTFA, and testing the feasibility of direct synthesis of clean nanoparticle alloys to explore the synthesis of carbon nanotubes by chemical vapor deposition. It is demonstrated that evaporated metal films are cleanly removed from quartz substrates using the technique, producing a highly forward-directed plume of nanoparticles (angle of divergence of ~2.5°) which were cleanly deposited onto different supports for analysis. TEM showed the nanoparticles were spherical with diameters that ranged from a few nm to hundreds of nm in a bimodal fashion. Unlike ns-TTFA, it was found that raising the pressure had no effect on the intensity of the smaller mode within the distribution, suggesting that nanoparticle formation by gas phase condensation was not at play under the present conditions. Close examination of size distributions from a 20 and 10nm Pt film revealed an 80nm downshift in the position of the large mode within the distribution, suggesting film thickness may provide a route to controlling the modal distribution of nanoparticles produced by this method. Lastly, particles sourced by a Fe/Mo bilayer film were found to be effective in growing single wall carbon nanotubes by atmospheric chemical vapor deposition, indicating sufficiently small and catalytically active particles were produced.
Sequence of enhancement of various portions of the pituitary gland on gadolinium-enhanced MR images: correlation with regional blood supply.

In an effort to study the blood supply of the pituitary gland, we determined the sequence in which various portions of the gland enhanced on MR images obtained after administration of gadopentetate dimeglumine in seven healthy volunteers. The pituitary gland has a unique blood supply: the pars nervosa is supplied by the inferior hypophyseal arteries; the infundibular stem is supplied by the superior hypophyseal arteries, which are more distal than the inferior hypophyseal arteries; and the pars distalis is supplied indirectly by portal systems from the infundibular stem. Therefore, the expected sequence of contrast enhancement of the pituitary gland is: the pars nervosa first, the infundibular stem second, and the pars distalis last. However, it is difficult to evaluate the temporal sequence of contrast enhancement with "slow" conventional MR techniques, such as routine enhanced images acquired minutes after contrast administration. Accordingly, we used rapid enhanced gradient-echo sequences (14 sec/image...
Learning from each other: promises and pitfalls of benchmarking in communications policy

Purpose – International benchmarking is increasingly used to inform information and communications policy. The paper aims to discuss the conditions under which learning from the experience in other jurisdictions (communities, nations, and super‐national regions) is possible.Design/methodology/approach – Research from different disciplines is reviewed and synthesized to provide an integrated conceptual framework that can be used to design more robust international benchmarking approaches.Findings – Drawing lessons from the policy experience in other jurisdictions is more difficult than is commonly perceived. Nonetheless, as long as the conditions for policy learning are met and it is properly done, international comparisons yield valuable data that can be used to improve the design of information and communications policy.Research limitations/implications – In conducting internationally comparative inquiries, researchers need to ascertain that the prerequisites of the methods employed are aligned with the ...
Long‐range shielding by cyclopropyl groups in 10‐spirocyclopropyl‐9,10‐dihydroanthracenes

The peri protons in a series of 10-spiroclopropyl-9,10-dihydroanthracenes have been shown to have shifts consistent with large (0.43-0.55 ppm) long-range shielding effects exerted by neighboring cyclopropyl groups. The shieldings are expected to be sensitive to variations in preferred conformation and, since the range of observed shifts for the five compounds studied is relatively small, it is concluded that all exhibit similar conformational preference.
Usefulness of baseline electrocardiographic QRS complex pattern to predict response to cardiac resynchronization.

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) improves morbidity and mortality in patients with heart failure with QRS >120 ms, yet most patients studied in clinical trials manifested baseline left branch bundle block (LBBB). It is unclear whether benefits of CRT extend to patients with right branch bundle block (RBBB) or a paced QRS at baseline despite QRS >120 ms. Orthotopic heart transplantation– and ventricular assist device–free survival, symptomatic response, and echocardiographic response were evaluated in the 636 patients who underwent CRT at our institution from 2000 to 2007 in whom the baseline electrocardiogram showed LBBB (n = 412; 65%), paced QRS (n = 162; 26%), or RBBB (n = 62; 10%). Mortality was assessed using the Social Security Death Index, and the medical record was analyzed for clinical data. A decrease in New York Heart Association class ≥0.5 after ≥6 months of CRT defined symptomatic response. Echocardiographic evidence of improved left ventricular function and reverse remodeling was evaluated after ≥6 months of CRT. Survival free from orthotopic heart transplantation and ventricular assist device placement was best in patients with LBBB and worst in those with RBBB, whereas patients with paced QRS had an intermediate prognosis (p = 0.003). This finding remained significant after controlling for baseline differences among the 3 groups. Symptomatic response was observed most often in patients with LBBB (60%), occurred least often in patients with RBBB (14%), and was intermediate in patients with paced QRS (46%; p
Violent video games and the Supreme Court: Lessons for the scientific community in the wake of Brown v. Entertainment Merchants Association.

In June 2011 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that video games enjoy full free speech protections and that the regulation of violent game sales to minors is unconstitutional. The Supreme Court also referred to psychological research on violent video games as "unpersuasive" and noted that such research contains many methodological flaws. Recent reviews in many scholarly journals have come to similar conclusions, although much debate continues. Given past statements by the American Psychological Association linking video game and media violence with aggression, the Supreme Court ruling, particularly its critique of the science, is likely to be shocking and disappointing to some psychologists. One possible outcome is that the psychological community may increase the conclusiveness of their statements linking violent games to harm as a form of defensive reaction. However, in this article the author argues that the psychological community would be better served by reflecting on this research and considering whether the scientific process failed by permitting and even encouraging statements about video game violence that exceeded the data or ignored conflicting data. Although it is likely that debates on this issue will continue, a move toward caution and conservatism as well as increased dialogue between scholars on opposing sides of this debate will be necessary to restore scientific credibility. The current article reviews the involvement of the psychological science community in the Brown v. Entertainment Merchants Association case and suggests that it might learn from some of the errors in this case for the future. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved). Language: en
A Vestibular Sensation: Probabilistic Approaches to Spatial Perception

The vestibular system helps maintain equilibrium and clear vision through reflexes, but it also contributes to spatial perception. In recent years, research in the vestibular field has expanded to higher-level processing involving the cortex. Vestibular contributions to spatial cognition have been difficult to study because the circuits involved are inherently multisensory. Computational methods and the application of Bayes theorem are used to form hypotheses about how information from different sensory modalities is combined together with expectations based on past experience in order to obtain optimal estimates of cognitive variables like current spatial orientation. To test these hypotheses, neuronal populations are being recorded during active tasks in which subjects make decisions based on vestibular and visual or somatosensory information. This review highlights what is currently known about the role of vestibular information in these processes, the computations necessary to obtain the appropriate signals, and the benefits that have emerged thus far.
COMPARATIVE KINETICS OF HEMOLYSIS INDUCED BY BACTERIAL AND OTHER HEMOLYSINS.

A study has been made of the kinetics of lysis induced by various hemolytic agents. The course of bemolysis was followed by mixing lysin with washed human erythrocytes, removing samples from the mixture, and estimating colorimetrically the hemoglobin in the supernatant fluid of the centrifuged samples. Most of the curves (but not all of them, e.g. tyrocidine) obtained by plotting degree of hemolysis against time, were S-shaped. The initiation of lysis by streptolysin S' was delayed, and in this property, streptolysin S' was similar to Cl. septicum hemolysin. None of the other lysins studied exhibited a long latent period preceding lysis. The maximum rate of hemoglobin liberation was found, in the range of lysin concentrations studied, to be a linear function of concentration when theta toxin of Cl. welchii, pneumolysin, tetanolysin, or streptolysin S' was the lytic agent. With comparable concentrations of saponin, sodium taurocholate, cetyl pyridinium chloride, tyrocidine, duponol C, lecithin-atrox venom mixture, or streptolysin O, the relation between rate and concentration was non-linear. The critical thermal increment associated with hemolysis was determined for systems containing pneumolysin, theta toxin, streptolysin S', streptolysin O, tetanolysin, and saponin. The findings concerning the effect of concentration and temperature on the rate of hemolysis provide a basis for classifying hemolytic agents (Tables I and II). Hemolysis induced by Cl. septicum hemolysin was found to be preceded by two phases: a phase of alteration of the erythrocytes and a phase involving swelling. Antihemolytic serum inhibited the first but not the second phase while sucrose inhibited the second but not the first phase.
LYMPHADENOPATHY IN CHILDREN

Lymph node enlargement is a common problem in children and adolescents. As part of the reticuloendothelial system, lymph nodes serve as the termination point for lymphatic vessels that drain lymph from most tissues of the body. Nodes are densely packed with lymphocytes that are organized loosely into cortical nodules and medullary cords by connective tissue, trabeculae, and lymphatic sinuses. The juxtaposition of the phagocytic cells, antigen presenting cells, and lymphocytes in areas of sluggish blood flow is ideally suited to provide the first line of defense against pathogens. Lymph node enlargement may result from acute or chronic, infectious or noninfectious stimuli. Organizing the possible causes of lymphadenopathy by anatomic location and origin aids the clinician in the evaluation.
Characterization of the Francisella tularensis subsp. novicida type IV pilus.

Francisella tularensis causes the disease tularaemia. Type IV pili (Tfp) genes are present in the genomes of all F. tularensis subspecies. We show that the wild-type F. tularensis subsp. novicida expresses pilus fibres on its surface, and mutations in the Tfp genes pilF and pilT disrupt pilus biogenesis. Mutations in other Tfp genes (pilQ and pilG) do not eliminate pilus expression. A mutation in pilE4 eliminates pilus expression, whereas mutations in the other pilin subunits pilE1–3 and pilE5 do not, suggesting that pilE4 is the major pilus structural subunit. The virulence regulator MglA is required for pilus expression, and it regulates the transcription of a putative Tfp glycosylation gene (FTN0431). However, MglA does not regulate transcription of pilF, pilT or pilE4, and a strain lacking FTN0431 still expresses pili; thus, it is unclear how MglA regulates pilus expression. Only pilF was also required for protein secretion, while pilE4 and pilT were not, indicating that there is very little overlap of the protein secretion/Tfp functions of the pil genes. The protein secretion component pilE1 was more important for in vitro intramacrophage growth and mouse virulence than the Tfp component pilE4. Our results provide the first genetic characterization of the novel Tfp system of F. tularensis.
Native Valve Bacillus cereus Endocarditis in a Non-Intravenous-Drug-Abusing Patient

Bacillus cereus is a rare cause of endocarditis, typically associated with intravenous drug abuse, rheumatic heart disease, prosthetic heart valves, pacemakers, or immunodeficiency. We present the first case of native valve Bacillus cereus endocarditis with no apparent risk factors. The patient had a fulminant course requiring emergent valve replacement.
Reaction of cardiolipin and phosphatidylinositol antisera with phospholipid antigens.

Antisera from rabbits inoculated with cardiolipin react with both cardiolipin and phosphatidylinositol. Antiphosphatidylinositol antisera also react with both phospholipids. These results suggest that antibodies to these phospholipids obtained in certain hyperimmune sera have a limited specificity.
Down-conversion of electronic frequencies and their dephasing dynamics: Interferometric four-wave-mixing spectroscopy with broadband light

The theory for temporally multidimensional, electronically resonant four-wave-mixing (FWM) spectroscopy based on broadband light interferometry is developed. Both homodyne and heterodyne detection are considered. Upon spectrally resolving the signal, the electronic Bohr frequency is seen to be extremely down-converted, even to zero frequency, but only with homodyne detection. These very low frequency fringes, referred to as radiation difference oscillations, are well known in the interferometric coherent Raman broadband light spectroscopies. Such low frequency fringes permit interferometry in the optical region using Nyquist criteria corresponding to far infrared sampling rates. Possible applications are illustrated by simulations of the two-dimensional third order signals from an electronic two-level system in a variety of ``baths.'' It is seen how homogeneous and inhomogeneous line-shaping mechanisms manifest themselves differently and revealingly in the free induction decay, the photon echo decay and their cross term components of the FWM signal.
Response of tibialis anterior tendon to a chronic exposure of stretch-shortening cycles: age effects.

The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effects of aging on tendon response to repetitive exposures of stretch-shortening cycles (SSC's). The left hind limb from young (3 mo, N = 4) and old (30 mo, N = 9) male Fisher 344 × Brown Norway rats were exposed to 80 maximal SSCs (60 deg/s, 50 deg range of motion) 3x/week for 4.5 weeks in vivo. After the last exposure, tendons from the tibialis anterior muscle were isolated, stored at -80°C, and then tested using a micro-mechanical testing machine. Deformation of each tendon was evaluated using both relative grip-to-grip displacements and reference marks via a video system. At failure, the young control tendons had higher strain magnitude than the young exposed (p < 0.01) and the old control tendons (p < .0001). Total load at inflection was affected by age only (p < 0.01). Old exposed and control tendons exhibited significantly higher loads at the inflection point than their young counterparts (p < 0.05 for both comparisons). At failure, the old exposed tendons carried higher loads than the young exposed tendons (p < 0.05). Stiffness was affected by age only at failure where the old tendons exhibited higher stiffness in both exposed and control tendons than their young counterparts (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). The chronic protocol enhanced the elastic stiffness of young tendon and the loads in both the young and old tendons. The old exposed tendons were found to exhibit higher load capacity than their younger counterparts, which differed from our initial hypothesis.
Lactate administration attenuates cognitive deficits following traumatic brain injury.

Moderately head injured patients often suffer long term neurological sequelae. There is no therapy for brain trauma and current treatments aim only to minimize secondary damage. These secondary effects are often triggered by the inability to re-establish ionic homeostasis after injury, due to large energy demands. Recent reports have demonstrated that neurons are capable of utilizing lactate as an energy source, thus this report examines the usefulness of lactate administration in the attenuation of behavioural deficits following a moderate brain injury. Lactate infusion (i.v.) was started 30 min after lateral fluid percussion injury and continued for 3 h. Cognitive deficits were determined using the Morris water maze. Lactate infused injured animals demonstrated significantly less cognitive deficits than saline infused injured animals. Thus, lactate infusion attenuated the cognitive deficits normally observed in this model, and therefore may provide moderately head injured patients with a treatment to help ameliorate the sequelae.
Health Care Recommendations for Lesbian Women

Objective To review research literature to provide clinicians with data‐based recommendations for care of lesbians. Data Sources Medline searches and references from selected articles with the search term “lesbian health.” Study Selection Literature was selected whether lesbian or women who have sex with women was utilized as a category in the study and results were available on this population. Data Extraction Data were organized according to specific health problems noted frequently in the research articles. Data Synthesis Lesbians have previously been invisible in health services and research, but in several areas, data now exists on which to base care. Conclusions Lesbians are now more comfortable “coming out” to providers but continue to have lower screening rates than other women. Risk is especially high in this population for cancer, heart disease, depression, and alcohol abuse. Adolescent lesbians are especially at risk for smoking and suicide/depression. JOGNN, 35, 583‐591; 2006. DOI: 10.1111/J.1552‐6909.2006.00081.x
Updraft and Downdraft Statistics of Simulated Tropical and Midlatitude Cumulus Convection

Abstract This paper presents a detailed analysis of updraft and downdraft statistics of simulated tropical oceanic and midlatitude continental cumulus convection, with an emphasis on the individual terms in the vertical momentum budget. Strong convective cores with absolute vertical velocities over 1 m s−1 and total condensate mixing ratios over 0.1 g kg−1 are sampled from several long-term simulations, driven by the observed large-scale advective forcings over the eastern Atlantic and Oklahoma regions. The median updraft and downdraft velocities are weakly dependent upon height, but the 90th percentile of the updraft velocity varies strongly with height, with a maximum in the middle troposphere. The median updraft thermal buoyancies are only about 0.5 K higher than those of downdrafts. As in aircraft measurements, positive thermal buoyancies exist for more than half of downdraft cores, and negative thermal buoyancies exist for a significant number of updrafts. The existence of the nonhydrostatic pressure...
Sesquiterpene lactones from Schkuhria anthemoidea var. wislizenii

Abstract We report here on the isolation and characterization of two new elemanolides and the known germacrolide 11,13-dehydroeriolin from Schkuhria anthemoidea var. wislizenii .
Mineral-microbe interactions in deep-sea hydrothermal systems: a challenge for Raman spectroscopy.

In deep-sea hydrothermal environments, steep chemical and thermal gradients, rapid and turbulent mixing and biologic processes produce a multitude of diverse mineral phases and foster the growth of...
Strategic Preparedness for Recovery from Catastrophic Risks to Communities and Infrastructure Systems of Systems

Natural and human-induced disasters affect organizations in myriad ways because of the inherent interconnectedness and interdependencies among human, cyber, and physical infrastructures, but more importantly, because organizations depend on the effectiveness of people and on the leadership they provide to the organizations they serve and represent. These human-organizational-cyber-physical infrastructure entities are termed systems of systems. Given the multiple perspectives that characterize them, they cannot be modeled effectively with a single model. The focus of this article is: (i) the centrality of the states of a system in modeling; (ii) the efficacious role of shared states in modeling systems of systems, in identification, and in the meta-modeling of systems of systems; and (iii) the contributions of the above to strategic preparedness, response to, and recovery from catastrophic risk to such systems. Strategic preparedness connotes a decision-making process and its associated actions. These must be: implemented in advance of a natural or human-induced disaster, aimed at reducing consequences (e.g., recovery time, community suffering, and cost), and/or controlling their likelihood to a level considered acceptable (through the decisionmakers' implicit and explicit acceptance of various risks and tradeoffs). The inoperability input-output model (IIM), which is grounded on Leontief's input/output model, has enabled the modeling of interdependent subsystems. Two separate modeling structures are introduced. These are: phantom system models (PSM), where shared states constitute the essence of modeling coupled systems; and the IIM, where interdependencies among sectors of the economy are manifested by the Leontief matrix of technological coefficients. This article demonstrates the potential contributions of these two models to each other, and thus to more informative modeling of systems of systems schema. The contributions of shared states to this modeling and to systems identification are presented with case studies.
On Deciding the Existence of a Liveness Enforcing Supervisory Policy in a Class of Partially Controlled General Free-Choice Petri Nets

If there are transitions in a Petri net (PN) that cannot be prevented from firing by a supervisory policy, then we have a partially controlled PN. The existence of a liveness enforcing supervisory policy (LESP) in a partially controlled ordinary PN is undecidable. Consequently, there can be no algorithms that synthesize an LESP for an arbitrary ordinary (general) PN. In contrast, we identify a class of general free-choice PN (FCPN) structures, which strictly includes the class of ordinary FCPN structures, where the existence of an LESP in any marked member of the class is decidable.