cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gentle chemical deoxygenation of hemoglobin solutions.

Dithionite is often used to deoxygenate aqueous solutions because it reacts readily with oxygen. However, milder reducing agents, that do not ordinarily react readily with oxygen, may do so in the presence of an appropriate redox catalyst. We show that dithiothreitol reacts rapidly with oxygen in concentrated hemoglobin solutions to produce a mixture of deoxy-, met- and sulf-hemoglobin. The reaction in neutral phosphate buffer is not significantly affected by superoxide dismutase, benzoate or EDTA. However, addition of catalase or horseradish peroxidase decreases the proportions of met- and sulf-hemoglobin produced. We conclude that both hemoglobin and horse radish peroxidase accept dithiothreitol as the reducing substrate in heme catalyzed reactions with their respective oxidizing substrates (dioxygen and hydrogen peroxide). As a result, deoxy-hemoglobin suitable for physical studies can be prepared with a combination of a stoichiometric excess of dithiothreitol and a catalytic amount of horse radish per...
Neonatal hypoxia and seizures.

1. Maria Gillam-Krakauer, MD* 2. Brian S. Carter, MD† 1. *Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN. 2. †Professor of Pediatrics, Section of Neonatology, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO. * Abbreviations: AED: : antiepileptic drug AMPA: : α-amino-3-hydroxyl-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid ATP: : adenosine triphosphate CSF: : cerebrospinal fluid HIE: : hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy MOCO: : molybdenum cofactor NMDA: : N -methyl-d-aspartic acid With 1 to 3 in 1,000 term neonates experiencing seizures, pediatricians need to know how to determine the seizure cause and manage appropriately, using brain imaging and treatments such as therapeutic hypothermia, xenon, and other pharmacologic therapies, in order to minimize long-term sequelae and leverage the infant brain's tremendous capacity for repair in the first 2 years after birth. After completing this article, readers should be able to: 1. Understand the pathophysiology of neonatal seizures. 2. Know the many disorders associated with seizures in the newborn. 3. Be aware of the characteristics of different neonatal seizure syndromes. 4. Know how to evaluate a newborn who is having seizures. 5. Be aware of the treatments for neonatal seizures. 6. Understand the characteristics and management of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Seizures occur during the newborn period at an incidence of ∼1 to 3 per 1,000 infants born at term. (1)(2)(3) Numerous systemic and neurologic conditions can manifest as seizures. Cerebral hypoxia-ischemia, defined as partial lack of oxygen resulting in reduction of blood flow to the brain, is the most frequent cause of seizures in the newborn period. It is important to determine the cause of neonatal seizures and institute the appropriate therapy to minimize the long-term sequelae of both the underlying condition and the seizure. Seizures are paroxysmal alterations in neurologic function caused by excessive synchronous depolarization of neurons within the central nervous system. Regardless of the underlying pathology manifesting as a seizure, all seizures are due to a shift in cell energy. This shift can result from failure of the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)–dependent sodium-potassium (Na+-K+) pump, an imbalance of inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters, and both excessive …
Handcarried Echocardiography to Assess Hemodynamics in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

Heart failure is a major source of cardiovascular morbidity, including acute decompensations requiring hospitalization. Because most therapeutic interventions in acute heart failure target optimization of cardiac output and volume status, accurate assessment of these parameters at the point of care is critical to guide management. However, physician bedside assessments of left ventricular (LV) function and volume status have limited accuracy. Traditional echocardiographic platforms, while useful for assessing ventricular and valvular function and volume status, have limitations for bedside use or frequent serial evaluation. Handcarried cardiac ultrasound devices, with their substantially lower costs, portability, and ease of use, circumvent many of the limitations of traditional echocardiographic platforms. The diagnostic capabilities of handcarried devices provide the opportunity for ultrasound assessment of LV function and serial bedside evaluation of volume status in patients with acutely decompensated heart failure.
Discovery of the Holotype of Chaenogobius annularis Gill (Perciformes: Gobiidae) and Its Taxonomic Consequences

Abstract The taxonomy of the Asian gobiid genus Chaenogobius Gill, 1859, has been unclear for over a century because of the apparent absence of a type specimen for its type species, Chaenogobius annularis Gill, 1859. A specimen discovered in the USNM collection (USNM 6336) matches Gill's original description in virtually every particular and is herein recognized as Gill's holotype. Detailed examination of the holotype indicates that C. annularis is a senior synonym of Chasmichthys dolichognathus (Hilgendorf, 1879) and refutes the suggestion that C. annularis is a synonym of Chaenogobius urotaenia (Hilgendorf, 1879). These conclusions force significant changes in the taxonomy of this group and suggest that complete revisions of both genera are necessary.
Fifteen Years of Work with a Guru: A Lifetime or Just the Beginning

The sixtieth birthday celebration of Stan Zionts is an important event in the lives of many - his numerous students and colleagues who have benefited enormously through his association. I have had the unique privilege of a sustained association with him for the past one and a half decades, and being the beneficiary of his mentorship, comradeship and collaboration in numerous research ventures. In this article, I summarize in a story-like fashion, our research association, accomplishments and the road ahead.
Instrument Thyself

Instrumenting the human body on a noninvasive and continuous basis is becoming more feasible than ever. The information will help to detect or diagnose physiological problems. Aggregations of such data can reveal important health trends in groups and analysis of individual data can serve to warn individuals of potential risks and hazards.
Morphology of E-Beam Evaporated Cr Thin Films

Studies were made of the structural dependence on the growth rate and substrate temperature of Cr thin films prepared by e-beam evaporation. The d-spacings and the average size of the crystallites were determined from large angle x-ray scattering spectra. Detailed studies of the morphology were made by cross-sectional high resolution transmission electron microscopy.
β-Adrenoceptor and Adenylate Cyclase Function in the Infarct Model of Rat Heart Failure:

In order to determine the possible etiology for diminished inotropic responsiveness to catecholamines in the infarction model of chronic congestive heart failure in rats, we studied beta-adrenoceptor number and site-specific stimulated adenylate cyclase activity in noninfarcted left ventricular tissue of rats at 3 months after ligation of the left coronary artery. Rats were divided into sham, small infarct, and large infarct groups according to infarct size. The large infarct groups showed increased right ventricle to body weight ratio (0.93 +/- 0.07 mg/g for the large infarcts vs 0.52 +/- 0.02 and 0.54 +/- 0.02 mg/g for the shams and small infarcts, respectively). Beta-Adrenoceptor number among the groups was similar (shams, 27 +/- 1 fmol/mg; small infarcts, 26 +/- 1 fmol/mg; and large infarcts, 29 +/- 1 fmol/mg), as was Kd (20 +/- 1 pmol, 18 +/- 2 pmol, and 18 +/- 2 pmol, respectively). Site-specific stimulation of adenylate cyclase using isoproterenol, Gpp(NH)p, forskolin, and MnCl2 revealed no significant differences among the groups. We conclude that this system is not responsible for the altered inotropic responsiveness to catecholamines seen in this model.
The Management of Urinary Fistulas and Strictures with Percutaneous Ureteral Stent Catheters

AbstractA method is described for percutaneous anterograde introduction of a ureteral stent catheter. The experience and treatment of 5 patients are reported: 2 ureterovaginal fistulas, 2 ureterocutaneous fistulas and 1 ureteral stricture. The capability of the technique to place a stent catheter in the presence of an almost complete separation of the ureter or through ureteral segments deformed by extensive cicatricial changes is emphasized. The method is advocated as a most effective alternative to supravesical drainage in patients with ureteral fistulas and impaired healing potential of ureters devitalized by surgical stripping and/or radiation therapy.
Sideroblasts: a study of stainable nonhemoglobin iron in marrow normoblasts.

Bone marrow specimens from a large group of infants and children were studied with the prussian blue stain. Iron-staining granules were present in the normoblasts of all the subjects studied, including normal individuals and those with a large variety of hematologic disorders. The term sideroblast was proposed for normoblasts with nonstaining inclusions. The profound decrease in sideroblasts in iron deficiency anemia and their prompt increase following both iron therapy in vivo and the addition of iron to marrow cultures in vitro indicated that the estimation of normoblast iron granules provides a sensitive index of the availability of iron. In thalassemia and in lead poisoning, hemoglobindeficient erythrocytes were found despite the presence of abundant iron granules within the normoblasts. The presens of stainable nonhemoglobin iron in red cell precursors is a normal phenomenon and provides a useful adjunct for the study of iron metabolism.
Arab Internationalism and Gender: Perspectives from the Third Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, 1949

Historians of the Middle East have used gender to explore a range of topics, from how crises around gendered practices have contributed to the construction of national identities to women's roles in nationalist movements. Whereas early gender histories focused on single nation-states, recent scholarship has turned to regional and transnational connections. Yet the international sphere, the domain of nation-states and nongovernmental organizations in relation to each other, has yet to be examined through the lens of gender. In this essay, I argue that doing so yields new insights into the relationship between the national and the international in the Middle East, and into the process of rights claiming in postcolonial nation-states. I make this argument through a discussion of the third session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW).
Revision of the Total Diet Study food list and diets

The list of foods selected for the Total Diet Study program has been updated to reflect current food consumption patterns.
Explication of Methodological Assumptions: A Metaevaluation

In this chapter, findings from a synthesis of 32 evaluations are collated to illustrate lessons on examination and elaboration of methodological assumptions and how this elaboration of assumptions is visible in evaluation reports (articles). Overall, the assumptions and preconditions examined in determining evaluation designs pertain mostly to internal and construct validity and they are mostly discussed as potential sources of bias or limitations to methodology. With regard to sampling, validity assumptions examined concern appropriateness of sampled participants in terms of their representativeness and their knowledge of evaluand elements under investigation. The preconditions for validity examined in measures-related decisions include appropriateness of measures to evaluation questions, appropriateness of measures to programs theory, support of measures with relevant theory and literature, minimization of respondent bias, and control of confounders. The preconditions for validity examined in deriving conclusions concern the requirements for appropriate use of statistical tests for data analysis, accuracy of data, and the need to reference multiple sources of information (triangulation) in developing conclusions and inferences.
Evaluation of first generation synthetic cannabinoids on binding at non-cannabinoid receptors and in a battery of in vivo assays in mice.

Abstract Anecdotal reports suggest that abused synthetic cannabinoids produce cannabis-like “highs,” but some of their effects may also differ from traditional cannabinoids such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This study examined the binding affinities of first-generation indole-derived synthetic cannabinoids at cannabinoid and noncannabinoid receptors and their effects in a functional observational battery (FOB) and drug discrimination in mice. All seven compounds, except JWH-391, had favorable affinity (≤159 nM) for both cannabinoid receptors. In contrast, binding at noncannabinoid receptors was absent or weak. In the FOB, THC and the six active compounds disrupted behaviors in CNS activation and muscle tone/equilibrium domains. Unlike THC, however, synthetic cannabinoids impaired behavior across a wider dose and domain range, producing autonomic effects and signs of CNS excitability and sensorimotor reactivity. In addition, mice acquired JWH-018 discrimination, and THC and JWH-073 produced full substitution whereas the 5-HT2B antagonist mianserin did not substitute in mice trained to discriminate JWH-018 or THC. Urinary metabolite analysis showed that the compounds were extensively metabolized, with metabolites that could contribute to their in vivo effects. Together, these results show that, while first-generation synthetic cannabinoids shared some effects that were similar to those of THC, they also possessed effects that differed from traditional cannabinoids. The high nanomolar (or absent) affinities of these compounds at receptors for most major neurotransmitters suggests that these divergent effects may be related to the greater potencies and/or efficacies at CB1 receptors; however, action(s) at noncannabinoid receptors yet to be assessed or via different signaling pathways cannot be ruled out.
The Multiple Systems of Technology Adoption in Hospitals

Medical practice is profoundly and increasingly influenced by the organizational and fiscal framework within which it exists. Unfortunately, the nature and effects of this framework are poorly understood and anticipated. In the United States, the dramatic changes which have occurred within and around medical practice are a subject of frequent comment but much less frequently of empirical investigation. With regard to the diffusion of biomedical technology, we continue to rely on empirical research, “classical diffusion theory,” conducted twenty years ago to explain the adoption of new drugs by general practitioners (Coleman, 1966; Rogers, 1971). While there have been appeals for greater emphasis on the organizational context of technology adoption, (Greer, 1977; Allen, 1981; Rogers, 1981) organizational research has remained preoccupied with non-medical organizations. Economists have constructed intriguing models of technology adoption (e.g. Lee, 1971; Pauly and Redisch, 1983; Schroder and Showstak, 1979) but have relied on assumptions about the interests and activities of patient admitting physicians which our research suggests are untenable. Specifically, the assumption that physicians as a group are activist promoters appears incorrect as does the assumption that professional dominance applies in the area of hospital technology decisions (Greer, 1984b).
Determinants and outcomes of nonoperative management for blunt traumatic aortic injuries

Abstract Objective The natural history and parameters for successful nonoperative management of blunt traumatic aortic injuries (BTAIs) involving the descending aorta are poorly understood. We examined our experience with nonoperative BTAI treatment (anti-impulse, blood pressure) and evaluated for determinants of successful outcomes. Methods We performed a review of our institutional prospective trauma registry database for all BTAI patients from 1999 to 2015. Computed tomography angiography was used to classify aortic injuries on the basis of severity: grade I, intimal tear; grade II, intramural hematoma; grade III, aortic pseudoaneurysm; and grade IV, free rupture. Grade IV injuries were excluded from nonoperative management. Baseline characteristics, clinical outcomes, and follow-up lesion resolution were compared within the medically managed cohort and between surgical and nonoperative groups using univariate and multivariable analysis. Results Among 338 BTAI patients admitted between 1999 and 2015, 67 BTAI patients were managed nonoperatively; 26 (54%) had grade I BTAI, 22 (46%) had grade II, and 2 (4%) had grade III. Both grade III injuries required a late thoracic endovascular aortic repair after initial medical management and were excluded from analysis. In all, 48 were managed with initial medical therapy, and the remaining 19 died on admission or before definitive treatment. Among the 48 medically managed, the median age was 34 years, and 14 (29%) were female. Six of the 48 (12%) were transferred from other facilities. There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics or early outcomes between BTAI grades. Median injury resolution time was 39 days for grade I and 62 days for grade II ( P = .03). Compared with a surgical cohort, BTAI grade and Abbreviated Injury Scale score for the chest were the only significant determinants of propensity to operate. Conclusions Based on these limited data, it appears that patients with minimal aortic injuries (grades I and II) may be managed medically, with the majority resolving within 8 weeks. Minimal aortic injury is associated with low mortality and excellent intermediate-term outcomes. Further prospective studies are required to validate these findings.
Abstract P3-17-10: The impact of the presence of ductal carcinoma in situ in patients with invasive ductal carcinoma

Background: Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is considered to be a precancerous lesion that shares many genetic similarities with invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). However, it remains unclear how DCIS might develop into IDC and whether the coexistence of DCIS has any clinical significance.There is limited data on whether coexisting DCIS in patients with IDC (IDC-DCIS) has any impact on patients9 clinical presentation, tumor characteristics, prognosis and treatment selection. We aim to investigate differences in patients with pure IDC versus patients with IDC-DCIS. Methods: We reviewed clinicopathologic data from the Breast Molecular Epidemiological Resource (BMER) database, which is a prospectively maintained breast cancer database from the University of Iowa. Missing information was supplemented by Iowa Cancer Registry database. Patients with a diagnosis of pure IDC and IDC-DCIS from 2009 to 2014 who underwent surgical resection of their breast cancer were included. We excluded patients with stage IV disease at diagnosis and those who underwent neoadjuvant therapy. Patients who had more than one tumor were only analyzed once using parameters of the largest tumor. Patient and tumor characteristics and treatment selection were compared between the IDC and IDC-DCIS groups. Student9s t test was used for continuous variables and chi squared test for categorical variables. Results: We observed that women with IDC-DCIS (n=226) had higher incidence of Her-2 positive cancers than those with pure IDC (n=95) (p=0.04). The IDC-DCIS group was more likely to be ER + and PR +, though these differences were not statistically significant. Another distinguishing characteristic between the two groups was that the IDC group contained more current smokers than the IDC-DCIS group (18.9% vs 10.6%, p Conclusions: Our study showed that active smoking may be a risk factor for the development of IDC without pre-existing DCIS. Patients with IDC-DCIS had higher rates of Her-2 positivity and significant differences between clinical and pathologic stages. Management and survival of both groups were similar. Citation Format: Xu L, Monga V, Thomas A, Leone JP. The impact of the presence of ductal carcinoma in situ in patients with invasive ductal carcinoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2016 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2016 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-17-10.
Quiet Contestations of Irish Abortion Law: Abortion Politics in Flux?

Ireland has one of the most restrictive abortion laws in Europe. The terms and extent of discussions about reproductive rights have long been shaped by the Irish Catholic Church. Recently, public disapproval of the Church has intensified due to revelations of improprieties, raising questions about the Church’s role as a moral authority. This chapter examines perspectives of doctors who provide reproductive health services in enacting, circumventing, or rebuffing Catholic influence in healthcare. Drawing on anthropological fieldwork in Ireland with reproductive healthcare providers, it argues that incipient forms of contestations, however individualized and quiet, to the Catholic ethos in healthcare are emerging in the Irish medical community. These emergent contestations on individual level parallel public stirrings and wider debates about access to abortion in Ireland.
A compressor for high average power ultrafast laser pulses with high energies

We have developed a high-efficiency (∼90%), broad-bandwidth low-absorption pulse compressor suitable for high energy pulses. This technology is a significant step in enabling high peak power laser systems to operate at high repetition rates.
Transgastric pancreatic necrosectomy-expedited return to prepancreatitis health.

Abstract Background The best operative strategy for necrotizing pancreatitis remains controversial. Traditional surgical necrosectomy is associated with significant morbidity; endoscopic and percutaneous strategies require repeated interventions with prolonged hospitalizations. We have developed a transgastric approach to pancreatic necrosectomy to overcome the shortcomings of the other techniques described. Materials and methods Patients with necrotizing pancreatitis treated from 2009 to 2016 at an academic center were retrospectively reviewed. Open or laparoscopic transgastric necrosectomy was performed if the area of necrosis was walled-off and in a retrogastric position on cross-sectional imaging. Study endpoints included postoperative complications and mortality. Results Forty-six patients underwent transgastric necrosectomy (nine open and 37 laparoscopic). Median (interquartile range) preoperative Acute Physiologic and Chronic Health Evaluation II score was 6 (3-12). Seventy percent of patients had >30% necrosis on preoperative imaging; infected necrosis was present in 35%. Median total length of stay (LOS) was 6 (3-12) d. No patient required a second operative debridement; four patients (9%) had short-term postoperative percutaneous drainage for residual fluid collections. Median follow-up was 1 y; there were no fistula or wound complications. Six patients (13%) had postoperative bleeding; five patients received treatment by image-guided embolization. There was one death in the cohort. Conclusions Transgastric pancreatic necrosectomy allows for effective debridement with a single definitive operation. When anatomically suitable, this operative strategy offers expedited recovery and avoids long-term morbidity associated with fistulas and prolonged drainage.
Evaluate thermal cracking resistance of asphalt binder using 4-mm dynamic shear rheometer monotonic test

ABSTRACTThis study was conducted to evaluate the thermal cracking resistance of asphalt binder using monotonic test by 4-mm dynamic shear rheometer (DSR). The asphalt binder used in this study was extracted and recovered from four field sections of Rochester experimental pavement in Olmsted County, Minnesota. Fracture energy and failure strain obtained from the stress–strain curve were found to be potentially good indicators to investigate low-temperature performance of asphalt binder. It was observed that the fracture energy and failure strain correlate well with transverse thermal cracking in the field. The frequency sweep test to determine shear modulus and the bending beam rheometer (BBR) test to determine the creep stiffness and m-value were conducted to verify the test result.
Design of abrasion resistant super-antiwetting nylon surfaces

Superamphiphobic textiles with strong abrasion resistance are highly desired for many applications, such as, breathable protective wear, corrosion resistance, super antiwetting and chemical shielding. High superamphiphobicity prepared through creating sophisticated morphologies normally would sacrifice the mechanical durability. A wet-chemistry method to produce abrasion resistant superamphiphobic surfaces based on nonwoven nylon fabrics is provided. The coated fabrics have excellent repellency to water and low surface tension liquids with static contact angles larger than 150° due to multi-scale surface roughness and low surface tension. The coating has negligible effect on the air permeability due to its small thickness; more importantly, the coating exhibits strong abrasion resistance.
CAPES: unsupervised storage performance tuning using neural network-based deep reinforcement learning

Parameter tuning is an important task of storage performance optimization. Current practice usually involves numerous tweak-benchmark cycles that are slow and costly. To address this issue, we developed CAPES, a model-less deep reinforcement learning-based unsupervised parameter tuning system driven by a deep neural network (DNN). It is designed to find the optimal values of tunable parameters in computer systems, from a simple client-server system to a large data center, where human tuning can be costly and often cannot achieve optimal performance. CAPES takes periodic measurements of a target computer system's state, and trains a DNN which uses Q-learning to suggest changes to the system's current parameter values. CAPES is minimally intrusive, and can be deployed into a production system to collect training data and suggest tuning actions during the system's daily operation. Evaluation of a prototype on a Lustre file system demonstrates an increase in I/O throughput up to 45% at saturation point.
HSCT-Associated Complications of the Skin, Hair, and Nails

HSCT-associated skin, hair, and nail changes are very common. Skin complications range from breakdown of the skin integrity due to chemotherapy or total body irradiation (TBI) during the peri-HSCT period to significant changes (sclerodermatous and lichenoid changes) due to chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) that can be lifelong and life-threatening. The most common causes of skin complications are drug allergy, engraftment syndrome, chemotherapy-induced, radiation-induced, GvHD, infection, and contact dermatitis. Nail changes can occur in HSCT recipients, and they are most often caused by chemotherapy, radiation, and GvHD. Hair changes associated with HSCT include partial or total alopecia that is usually temporary but can be permanent and most often due to chemotherapy, radiation, or chronic GvHD. Change in color or texture can also occur in HSCT recipients. This chapter addresses skin, nail, and hair complications found in HSCT recipients with the exception of GvHD-related because this topic is detailed elsewhere in Chapters 17 (Acute Graft-Versus-Host Disease: Diagnosis, Prophylaxis, and Treatment) and 19 (Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease).
LGBT inclusivity in health assessment textbooks

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people make up 4% of the adult population in the United States; however, it is unclear if there is sufficient material in nursing textbooks for students to learn how to provide care for sexual minority populations. A content analysis of two commonly used health assessment textbooks was completed to identify material that prepared nurses for LGBT patient interactions. Topics such as gender neutrality, same-sex partners, and other terms referring to LGBT persons were considered LGBT content. Campinha-Bacote's The Process of Cultural Competence in the Delivery of Healthcare was used as the theoretical framework to assess the textbooks' content on five constructs: awareness, knowledge, skill, encounters, and desire to learn. Eleven pages in one text and 14 in the other had at least one line that addressed LGBT health assessment. Investigators found content related to the constructs of awareness, knowledge, and skill in both textbooks. In all cases, the content was limited in depth; both textbooks lacked exemplars and application of LGBT-specific health content. Inclusion of this information in textbooks or other learning resources is needed to enhance nurses' cultural knowledge and skill to improve health care outcomes within this vulnerable population.
The price-setting newsvendor problem with nonnegative linear additive demand

Abstract We analyze the price-sensitive newsvendor problem with non-negative linear additive demand. We show that the problem always has an optimal solution and identify random demand distributions for which a unique optimal solution can be computed by showing that, for those distributions, the expected profit is a quasiconcave function of the retail price.
Mathematics: The Study of Quantity, Structure, Space, and Change

Mathematics provides the last letter of the acronym STEM for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. However, it forms the basis of all of the STEM components. Mathematics is the most precise language for science, the most important tool of engineering and is broadly used in technology from deciphering the genetic code to solar energy generation.Most of the mathematics that is needed to understand science, technology and engineering can actually be taught in middle school. The chapter contains a detailed section on numbers starting with the numbers that we use to count and their symbolic representation by different cultures. This basic number system is extended to negative numbers and the system of integers, to fractions or rational numbers and to numbers that cannot be written as fractions (irrationals). The section on numbers ends with binary numbers that are the basis for modern computation and explains how computers “crunch” numbers.The arithmetic of numbers leads then in a natural way to the algebra of solving equations for numbers that are at first not known. The examples presented are engineering problems such as designing a garden sprinkler system or an electrical circuit.This knowledge of the arithmetic and algebra of numbers is used to introduce the geometry of Euclid, starting with his axioms and discussing some famous rules (or theorems, such as that of Pythagoras). Applications include the spherical geometry of the earth, the distance to the horizon and the timing of sunsets on beaches and mountains. Finally these geometrical methods are used to explain how geometry problems are implemented on and solved by computers, how computer graphics is accomplished and how the global positioning system (GPS) works.The mathematics presented in this first chapter is sufficient to understand all topics and to solve explicitly all problems presented in Chaps. 2, 3, and 4. In addition explanations are given how to solve these same problems by using the computer software MATHEMATICA in elementary ways. The last Chap.5 deals with advanced problems. There, additional mathematics, generally known as differential and integral calculus is covered in a pragmatic way and at the high school level.
Brain Dysfunction and Alcohol

Chronic alcoholism is characteristically associated with a spectrum of brain disturbances ranging from the severe symptoms of the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (Butters and Cermak, 1980; Victor et al. vn1971) to the more subtle, but nonetheless significant, cognitive disturbances characteristic of the majority of alcoholic patients. It has been recognized that in some alcoholics the brain damage may be so severe that it renders the individual ineffective as a member of society. Less clinically apparent forms of brain damage have long been suspected but overlooked because it was not possible to examine them with available techniques. In some individuals, subclinical signs of brain dysfunction may possibly be a significant factor impairing their ability to reduce their intake or abstain from alcohol and may account for such phenomena as loss of control.
The Mangled Extremity

Improvements in operative and rehabilitative techniques have made salvage of the mangled extremity increasingly feasible. Proper guidelines need to be followed to ensure preservation only of extremities that will be functional. Primary amputation may be appropriate in defined circumstances.
PREDISCHARGE CURRENT MEASUREMENTS AND OPTICAL SURFACE FIELD MEASUREMENTS ASSOCIATED WITH INSULATOR SURFACE FLASHOVER

ABSTRACT The high voltage withstand capability and hence the size of many, gas insulated and vacuum, high voltage systems are determined by the surface flashover potential of insulators used in the system. Research has, therefore, been conducted, using electrical and optical measurements, to determine the mechanisms leading to surface flashover in high pressure gas and vacuum. Results show that predischarge currents do occur in vacuum. This current is dependent upon the insulator material and the triple junction design. No predischarge current has been measured for N2 gas filled systems for pressures up to 1.035 MPa and fields up to 160 kV/cm. The Kerr electro-optic effect has been used to measure the insulator predischarge surface fields for vacuum and gas filled systems. Results show that insulator surface field modifications occur in vacuum and in N2 gas for fields and pressures above 60 kV/cm and 0.414 MPa. It is postulated that the observed field modifications are due to insulator surface charging.
Gastrin-producing tumors

Strictly defined, gastrin-producing tumors include any tumor that produces gastrin. A gastrin-producing tumor in this strict definition would not be synonymous with the term Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Gastrin can be detected in tumors by immunocytochemistry or by various molecular biological methods (in situ hybridization, PCR, Northern analysis, etc) and not cause any clinical syndrome or be associated with hypergastrinemia [1–4]. Whether hypergastrinemia and gastric hypersecretion are present or not, the tumor is still a gastrin-producing neoplasm. However, the diagnosis of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is generally only made if the patient has the appropriate clinical findings (i.e., hypergastrinemia with simultaneous gastric acid hypersecretion), as discussed later. Strictly speaking a gastrin-producing tumor is synonymous with the term gastrinoma; however, generally the term gastrinoma is equated with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. In this chapter this general usage will be retained. Therefore, a tumor in which gastrin is detected, without associated hypergastrinemia or gastric hypersecretion, would not be included in the general use of this term. Tumors that produce gastrin but are not associated with hypergastrinemia clinically present no unique hormonal features and thus clinically should be classified in a separate category than functional tumors (Table 1).
Treatment strategies for persistent methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia.

What is known and objective Treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteraemia is a long-standing challenge to health care, often complicated by metastatic infections, treatment failure and mortality. When MRSA bacteraemia persists despite adequate initial treatment, current Infectious Diseases Society of America guidelines recommend evaluation and removal of possible sources of infection. In addition, a change in therapy may be considered. The objective of this review was to explore the therapeutic options for the treatment of persistent MRSA bacteraemia. Methods A literature search of PubMed, MEDLINE and Google Scholar was performed using the following search terms: [methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus OR MRSA] AND [bacteraemia OR bloodstream infection] AND [persistent OR persistence OR refractory OR treatment failure OR salvage] AND treatment. We evaluated relevant, adult, English-language, peer-reviewed studies published between 1985 and May 2018. In vitro and animal studies were considered as supportive of in vivo data. Results and discussion Randomized, controlled trials are lacking. However, case series and case reports support multiple treatment options including high-dose daptomycin in combination with an antistaphylococcal β-lactam, ceftaroline, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) or fosfomycin; ceftaroline alone or in combination with vancomycin or TMP-SMX; linezolid alone or in combination with a carbapenem, or telavancin. What is new and conclusion Given the heterogeneity of the data, a preferred regimen has not emerged. Prescribers must take into consideration recent exposure, source control, and available synergy and clinical data. Further comparative trials are needed to establish a preferred regimen and the creation of a universal treatment algorithm.
Neonatal intestinal immune regulation by the commensal bacterium, P. UF1

Newborns are highly susceptible to pathogenic infections with significant worldwide morbidity possibly due to an immature immune system. Recently, we reported that Propionibacterium strain, P. UF1, isolated from the gut microbiota of preterm infants, induced the differentiation of bacteria-specific Th17 cells. Here, we demonstrate that P. UF1 significantly increased the number of protective Th17 cells and maintained IL-10+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in newborn mice. In addition, P. UF1 protected mice from intestinal Listeria monocytogenes (L. m) infection. P. UF1 also functionally sustained the gut microbiota and induced critical B vitamin metabolites implicated in the regulation of T cell immunity during L. m intestinal infection. Transcriptomic analysis of P. UF1-induced Th17 cells revealed genes involved in the differentiation and regulation of these cells. These results illustrate the potency of P. UF1 in the enhancement of neonatal host defense against intestinal pathogen infection.
Understanding How Video Quality Affects Object Detection Algorithms.

Video quality is an important practical challenge that is often overlooked in the design of automated video surveillance systems. Commonly, visual intelligent systems are trained and tested on high quality image datasets, yet in practical video surveillance applications the video frames can not be assumed to be of high quality due to video encoding, transmission and decoding. Recently, deep neural networks have obtained state-of-the-art performance on many machine vision tasks. In this paper we provide an evaluation of 4 state-of-the-art deep neural network models for object detection under various levels of video compression. We show that the existing detectors are susceptible to quality distortions stemming from compression artifacts during video acquisition. These results enable future work in developing object detectors that are more robust to video quality.
Predictors of Impaired Cerebral Perfusion After Flow Diversion Therapy

Background Flow-diverting stents (FDS) are relatively safe and highly efficacious in treating cerebral aneurysms; however, a small subset of patients experience devastating hemorrhagic complications owing to presumed alterations in local aneurysm and distal cerebral blood flow. The downstream effects of FDS on distal cerebral blood flow is not well understood, but isolated reports of hyperperfusion injury have been described in the literature. We investigate the incidence and clinical factors contributing to abnormal cerebral blood flow after FDS placement. Methods A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing FDS for elective aneurysm treatment between 2014–2017 was performed. Patients who underwent perfusion imaging within 24-hours posttreatment were included for further analysis. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess the impact of multiple variables on the postoperative perfusion changes. Results A total of 69 patients underwent FDS therapy to treat unruptured intracranial aneurysms. Thirteen patients (18.8%) developed abnormal perfusion changes. A significant difference of the median was found in aneurysm projection width, depth, neck width, calculated approximate volume, and size ratio between the hypoperfused, normal, and hyperperfusion cases. On multivariate analysis, history of smoking (P = 0.0117), and approximate calculated volume (P = 0.0145) were significant predictors of hyperperfusion identified on posttreatment imaging. Conclusions This study yielded several novel findings. We demonstrate that cerebral blood flow alterations will occur in a significant subset of patients undergoing FDS treatment. We also provide new evidence that aneurysm volume and history of smoking may predict the developing of postoperative perfusion anomalies. Future studies are needed to evaluate the clinical ramifications of cerebral blood flow disruption in large prospective studies.
Parallel BFS Implementing Optimized Decomposition of Space and kMC simulations for Diffusion of Vacancies for Quantum Storage

Abstract We present a novel breadth-first search (BFS) algorithm based on the notion of temporal evolvability that is adaptable to various multicore architectures for simulating diffusion of vacancies in hexagonal silicon carbide (4H-SiC) for information storage. The algorithm is formulated in the semi-ring algebraic framework of BFS and incorporates a real-space grid decomposition to optimize the number of nodes that are evaluated in each frontier of the evolution. Scaling characteristics are first evaluated from performance runs for two formulations: (i) recursive depth-first search (DFS) and (ii) semi-ring implementations of BFS. The results for a real-space grid implementation of BFS are then presented. We demonstrate that each new iteration reduces the communication overhead, enhancing performance. A comparison of the real-space grid based BFS with a kinetic Monte Carlo (kMC) algorithm is also presented for the case of diffusion without the influence of the Coulomb interaction. The efficient parallel implementations of this latter approach enables simulations of larger systems than those studied before.
Risk of Venous Thrombotic Events (VTE) in Patients with Myelodysplastic Syndromes with 5q Deletion during Lenalidomide Therapy: Single Institution Experience

Abstract Introduction: Lenalidomide (LEN) has been known to increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients treated for multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin lymphomas and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) with and without 5q deletion. The current recommendations are to place patients on anticoagulation. We hereby describe the frequency of VTE in patients with MDS with 5q Syndrome treated with single agent LEN off protocol in a single institution. Methods: We performed data extraction from Mayo clinic records (October 1993 to March 2016) for patients with confirmed 5q Syndrome (5q + one abnormality except -7/7qdel and bone marrow blast Results: Out of 1222 patients with MDS, 39 patients (3%) were identified with confirmed diagnosis of 5q Syndrome; 19 (2%) of which were treated with LEN. Median age was 69 years (56-87), with 58% being males. Median hemoglobin was 10.4 gm/dL (7.7-11.7), white blood cell count (WBC) 4.7 x109/L (1.1-8.7), platelets of 153 x109/L (63-805), and median bone marrow blasts 1%(0-7). Risk stratification per IPSS-R was either very low or low risk in 38% and 62%, respectively. Median erythropoietin level prior to LEN start was 90 (21-1937). Transformation into acute myeloid leukemia was found in 16% of the cases, with a median overall survival of 52 months. Hematological improvement (HI) was achieved in 58% of the patients. In 11 cases repeat bone marrow biopsies and cytogenetic reassessment was done, 4 (40%) patients achieved complete cytogenetic remission. Median response duration was 25.9 months. Thirteen (68%) of the 19 patients were taking anticoagulation (3 warfarin, 1 rivaroxaban) or antiplatelet therapy (9 aspirin) while 6 patients did not take any anticoagulation during LEN therapy. VTE was found in 2 (11%) patients both of which were on anticoagulation (1 on aspirin, and one on warfarin). None of the 6 patients who were not taking anticoagulation therapy developed VTE. Conclusion: MDS 5q Syndrome subgroup is a small cohort of patients representing 3% of all MDS patients. Anticoagulation was done in majority of patients with 5q Syndrome when treated with LEN. VTE was found to be an infrequent complication (11%) in patients treated with LEN and happened despite being on prophylactic anticoagulation. Larger size cohorts are needed to study this correlation further. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Opioid Taper Is Associated with Subsequent Termination of Care: a Retrospective Cohort Study.

Opioid tapering is increasingly utilized by providers to decrease risks of chronic opioid therapy, but it is unknown whether tapering is associated with termination of care. To determine whether patients taking chronic opioid therapy who experienced opioid tapers were at greater risk of subsequently terminating their care compared with those who were continued on their doses. Retrospective cohort study of patients in a large, urban health system between 2008 and 2012 with 2 years of follow-up. Adult patients prescribed a stable baseline dose of chronic opioid therapy of at least 25 morphine milligram equivalents per day during a baseline year. An opioid taper during an exposure year, defined as a reduction in the average daily dose of at least 30% from the baseline dose in both of the two 6-month periods in the year following the baseline year. Opioid dose continuation was defined as any increase in dose, no change in dose, or any decrease up to 30% compared with baseline dose in the exposure year. The primary outcome was termination of care, defined as no outpatient encounters in the health system, in the year following the exposure year. Of 1624 patients on chronic opioid therapy, 207 (15.5%) experienced an opioid taper and 78 (4.8%) experienced termination of care. Compared with opioid dose continuation, opioid taper was significantly associated with termination of care (AOR 4.3 [95% CI 2.2–8.5]). Opioid taper is associated with subsequent termination of care. These findings invite caution and demonstrate the need to fully understand the risks and benefits of opioid tapers.
Embryogenesis in a Colorado population of Aphonopelma hentzi (Girard, 1852) (Araneae: Mygalomorphae: Theraphosidae): establishing a promising system for the study of mygalomorph development

The mygalomorph spider Aphonopelma hentzi (Girard, 1852) (Texas brown tarantula) is a geographically widespread and accessible system for the study of comparative development in spiders. However, remarkably little information is available regarding the timing of egg sac deposition and duration of embryogenesis in this species, a gap that can directly affect the success of field collecting efforts. Here, we describe the habitat, egg sacs, and embryos of A. hentzi in the Comanche National Grasslands of Colorado. We compare the effectiveness of strategies for obtaining adult specimens vs. egg sacs of A. hentzi from burrows. Protocols for rearing, fixation, fluorescent immunohistochemistry, colorimetric in situ hybridization, and imaging of embryos are detailed. Together with forthcoming genomic resources, these data are anticipated to improve understanding of embryogenesis in Mygalomorphae and comparative development of chelicerates more generally.