cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adequate at rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE), but inadequate on final cytologic diagnosis: Analysis of 606 cases of endobronchial ultrasound-guided trans bronchial needle aspirations (EBUS-TBNA).

Background EBUS-TBNA is a minimally invasive, reliable technique with high sensitivity and accuracy. ROSE plays a crucial role in triaging specimens to guide management. This study analyzes aspirates that were deemed "adequate" on ROSE, but inconclusive upon final cytologic interpretation. Design EBUS-TBNAs from 2015 and 2016 were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed for ROSE adequacy versus final cytologic diagnosis. Concurrent and subsequent procedures were evaluated to determine the outcome of ROSE-adequate cases with inconclusive final cytologic diagnosis of non-diagnostic (ND), atypical (ATY), and suspicious for malignancy (SUS). Interpretation at ROSE was determined to be "appropriate" if published criteria for lymph node adequacy were met. Results A total of 606 cases of EBUS-FNA with ROSE were obtained of which 61% were deemed adequate. 5% of cases deemed "adequate" at ROSE resulted in inconclusive final interpretation with 4 ND, 7 ATY, and 6 SUS. Their distribution, anatomic location, presence or absence of diagnostic aspirate, appropriateness of ROSE adequacy statement, and any concurrent or subsequent procedures on the same or different site as well as any impact on management was reviewed. Cytotechnologist (CT) experience ranged from 1 to 25 years. Conclusions ROSE and final cytology discrepant cases formed a very small fraction of total number of EBUS-TBNA cases with onsite evaluation. None of these discordant cases had any major clinical impact. There will remain a small fraction of cases that will be inappropriately deemed as "adequate" at ROSE due to the challenging nature of the procedure.
Social Media: A Breeding Ground for Energy or Apathy?

Due to increased political tension this past year, social media networks have become common outlets for people to express their political ideals and call others to action. The narcotizing dysfunction theory, developed by Paul Lazarsfeld and Robert Merton in 1948, states that people can substitute knowledge for action as a result of being inundated by mass media about polarizing issues. It seems worth investigating whether social media parallels this theory and, at a point, stops serving as a means to effect change. Does posting about political and social issues create a false sense of political activism, contributing to decreased political participation? To explore this question, a survey administered to 160 participants examined their behavior on social media, political participation, and perceived political activeness. The results showed that those who considered themselves politically active read and posted about political/social issues on social media at a higher rate than which they took tangible political action. From this data, it was concluded that social media plays a role in narcotizing the participants of the survey by providing a passive alternative to active participation. The implications of this trend are detrimental to our democracy in a time when political participation is exceedingly low.
254) Functional and Anatomical Characterization of Descending Periaqueductal Gray (PAG) Projections and their Role in Pain Modulation

Endogenous analgesic pathways embody an alternative target for the development for chronic pain therapies. Previous studies have demonstrated the role of the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG) in descending pain modulation. It has been proposed that tonic GABAergic neurotransmission at the level of the vlPAG serves to inhibit efferent excitatory projections that mediate descending analgesia. Disinhibition of these projection neurons allows subsequent activation of rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) neurons that inhibit nociception at the level of the spinal cord. However, lack of cell-type specificity in these studies has prevented the determination of the role of specific subsets of vlPAG neurons in analgesia. We have utilized recently developed genetic tools to selectively manipulate the activity of subclasses of vlPAG neurons to identify the circuit components critical for analgesia. Our data suggest that increasing the activity of glutamatergic vlPAG neurons or decreasing the activity of GABAergic vlPAG neurons results in increases in sensory thresholds in uninjured animals, while ameliorating hyperalgesia associated with chronic pain states. To further characterize descending pain circuitry at the level of the vlPAG, we decided to focus on efferent projections to the RVM. We hypothesize that these projections are partially responsible for the observed analgesia in our previous study. Population-specific anatomical tracing revealed that most of these projections are glutamatergic and originate from the ventrolateral columns of the PAG. Optogenetic stimulation of these PAG-RVM neurons results in elevation of thermal thresholds in uninjured animals and seems to reverse thermal hyperalgesia associated with inflammatory states. However, this is not the case in a model of neuropathic pain. In brief, our results provide direct experimental evidence supporting the GABA disinhibition hypothesis, highlighting the role of descending glutamatergic neurotransmission at the level of the PAG-RVM as a key component of endogenous analgesic pathways. This work is supported by NINDS F31NS103472 to JGGR.
Almost Sure Convergence of Some Approximate Solutions for Random Parabolic Equations

The paper is concerned with some approximate solutions for random partial differential equations of parabolic type via discretization in time or by an eigenfunction expansion. In contrast with L p -convergence, it is shown that, under suitable conditions, the approximate solutions converge almost surely to the strong solution of a parabolic Ito equation.
Crafting markets and fostering entrepreneurship within underserved communities: social ventures and clean energy provision in Asia

ABSTRACTIn this paper, we conceptualize markets for underserved communities as being constituted by local institutions that reflect the modalities of these individual’s lives. Using data on the act...
Ultrastructural study of liver cell injury due to UTP deficiency

Changes in the fine structure of rat liver cells after the administration of 2-deoxy-D-galactose (2DG) and 6-azauridine (6AZ) were studied and the lesions compared with those induced by D-galactosamine. A single injection of 2DG + 6AZ induces rapid disappearance of nucleolar components leading to small fibrillar spherical bodies which are indistinguishable from the nucleoli of galactosamine-treated rats. The most conspicuous change in the cytoplasm was rarefaction of hyaloplasm. Disarray of rough endoplasmic reticulum, disaggregation of polyribosomes and atrophy of Golgi apparatus are also noted. Administration of uridine simultaneously with, or shortly after, the 2DG + 6AZ treatment prevents or reverses the nucleolar and cytoplasmic alterations. The most characteristic cytoplasmic alteration of galactosamine-treated animals was accumulation of electron dense aggregates between the stacks of rough endoplasmic reticulum. The lesion was not protected by the administration of uridine. These observations suggest that the nucleolar changes induced by galactosamine or 2DG + 6AZ are the consequence of acute UTP deficiency. Cytoplasmic alterations may represent the combined effects of UTP deficiency and accumulation of respective metabolites.
New Options in Antifungal Therapy: New Drugs, Inhaled Antifungals, and Management of Resistant Pathogens

This review aims to update the reader on recent information related to available antifungal pharmacotherapy and inform on agents that may be available for clinical use in the near future. Additionally, alternate drug delivery of existing agents, therapeutic drug monitoring, and management of resistant fungal pathogens will be discussed. Rezafungin (a once-weekly echinocandin) and ibrexafungerp (an oral glucan synthase inhibitor) appear to be the investigational agents that are nearest to widespread use in clinical practice. Emerging information on isavuconazole (mean inhibitory concentrations, drug interactions, side effect profile) suggests increasing utilization is likely to continue. Newer formulations of posaconazole and itraconazole offer more favorable pharmacokinetic profiles, potentially making them more reliable treatment options for clinicians versus the original formulations. While the number of available antifungal agents remains comparatively limited, recent data and new formulations of existing agents are available to aid clinicians until the next wave of new antifungal drug approvals.
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist NLY01 Reduces Retinal Inflammation and Neuron Death Secondary to Ocular Hypertension

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness and is characterized by the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Recent studies have implicated pro-inflammatory microglia, macrophages, and A1 astrocytes in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. The role of pro-inflammatory, neurotoxic A1 astrocytes in glaucoma is just beginning to be explored. Using a mouse model of glaucoma, we demonstrate that ocular hypertension is sufficient to trigger production of C1q, interleukin-1α (IL-1α), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), three cytokines necessary and sufficient to drive the formation of A1 astrocytes. Upregulation of these cytokines occurs first in CD11b+ CD11c+ cells followed by CD11b+ CD11c- cells. Ablation of this pathway, by either genetic deletions of C1qa, IL-1α, and TNF-α, or treatment with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist NLY01, reduces A1 astrocyte transformation and RGC death. Together, these results highlight a neuroinflammatory mechanism of glaucomatous neurodegeneration that can be therapeutically targeted by NLY01 administration.
NEAR-INFRARED VARIABILITY AMONG YOUNG STELLAR OBJECTS IN THE STAR FORMATION REGION CYGNUS OB7

We present an analysis of near-infrared time-series photometry in J, H, and K bands for about 100 epochs of a 1 Degree-Sign Multiplication-Sign 1 Degree-Sign region of the Lynds 1003/1004 dark cloud in the Cygnus OB7 region. Augmented by data from the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer, we identify 96 candidate disk bearing young stellar objects (YSOs) in the region. Of these, 30 are clearly Class I or earlier. Using the Wide-Field Imaging Camera on the United Kingdom Infrared Telescope, we were able to obtain photometry over three observing seasons, with photometric uncertainty better than 0.05 mag down to J Almost-Equal-To 17. We study detailed light curves and color trajectories of {approx}50 of the YSOs in the monitored field. We investigate the variability and periodicity of the YSOs and find the data are consistent with all YSOs being variable in these wavelengths on timescales of a few years. We divide the variability into four observational classes: (1) stars with periodic variability stable over long timescales, (2) variables which exhibit short-lived cyclic behavior, (3) long-duration variables, and (4) stochastic variables. Some YSO variability defies simple classification. We can explain much of the observed variability as being due to dynamic and rotational changesmore » in the disk, including an asymmetric or changing blocking fraction, changes to the inner disk hole size, as well as changes to the accretion rate. Overall, we find that the Class I:Class II ratio of the cluster is consistent with an age of <1 Myr, with at least one individual, wildly varying source {approx}100, 000 yr old. We have also discovered a Class II eclipsing binary system with a period of 17.87 days.« less
Fluvial Sand Bodies

The sediments of fluvial systems have interested geologists for some time. A large body of literature has grown up around the problems of fluvial processes (Leopold et al., 1964; Miall, 1978a), fluvial sediments (Allen, 1965; Miall, 1978a), and fluvial facies models (Miall, 1978a, Reading, 1979). Fluvial sandstone beds are known to contain petroleum reservoirs (Nanz, 1954; Harms, 1966; Berg, 1968; MacKenzie, 1972) and also form host rocks for the well-known sandstone-type uranium deposits found in the Rocky Mountains and the Gulf Coastal Plain (Fischer, 1970, 1974; Galloway, 1977).
Comparison of Myoglobins from Harbor Seal, Porpoise, and Sperm Whale: V. THE COMPLETE AMINO ACID SEQUENCES OF HARBOR SEAL AND PORPOISE MYOGLOBINS

The fully alkylated derivatives of harbor seal and porpoise apomyoglobin have been subjected to chymotryptic hydrolysis. In each case, the products were completely soluble at pH 2.0 in contradistinction to the tryptic hydrolysates. The purified peptides have been subjected to sequence analysis and amide identification and, in conjunction with the tryptic peptides, aligned to produce the complete sequence of each myoglobin. The resulting structures, when compared to the established sperm whale structure, indicate a close similarity among all three proteins. The sperm whale protein differs from that of seal in 26 positions but from that of porpoise in only 15 positions. The seal and porpoise proteins differ at 17 positions. All of the amino acid replacements were confined to 29 positions, leaving 124 of 153 positions in the sequence invariant in the three proteins. The relation of these data to other, partial sequences is discussed.
The application of cytology to a community uterine cancer detection program; results and experiences of eleven years' operation.

Abstract The mode of operation of the Toledo Community Uterine Cancer Detection Program, established in 1947, is described. Seven important principles formed the basis for the program, among which three steps are unique, so far as we know, for a community operation. 1.1. Continuity of Examination.—Once a woman is enrolled in the program, she receives repeated pelvic and cytologic examinations at 6 to 12 month intervals throughout her lifetime. 2.2. Self-Supporting Program.—The program is essentially self-supporting; those who are able pay fees. Indigents are examined free both by physicians and pathologists. 3.3. Utilization of Practicing Physicians.—The work is being done by practicing physicians in their own offices. The results of the first 11 years' operation of the program are outlined. 1.1. More than 110,000 pelvic and cytologic examinations have been made on approximately 47,000 women. 2.2. Histologically proved uterine cancer has been detected in more than 430 women. Of these, 275 had clinically suspected cancers while more than 155 had clinically occult neoplasms which were detected primarily by means of smears. 3.3. Women with occult uterine cancer had a 5 year cure rate of 91 per cent as compared with 38 per cent for those with suspected neoplasms.
Accounting for the control actuator layer in economic model predictive control of nonlinear processes

In the present work, an economic model predictive control (EMPC) system is designed that accounts for the dynamics of the control actuators. A combined process-actuator dynamic model is developed to describe the process and control actuator dynamics and is used within the EMPC system. Stability constraints, designed via Lyapunov-based techniques, are imposed on the EMPC problem to guarantee closed-loop stability of the process system under the EMPC. An EMPC system accounting for the control actuator dynamics is applied to a benchmark chemical process example to study the impact of the actuator dynamics on closed-loop economic performance and reactant material constraint satisfaction.
Total vascular exclusion of the liver for the resection of lesions in contact with the vena cava or the hepatic veins.

Background This study reviews experience with total vascular exclusion of the liver (TVE), for the resection of tumours in contact with the hepatic veins or the vena cava. Methods A retrospective study was carried out of 366 hepatic resections performed over 13 years. Forty-one patients (11 per cent) were operated under TVE. Results Twenty-four patients were operated for malignancy and 17 for benign disease. Major hepatectomy was performed in 26 patients and minor hepatectomy in 15. The technique allowed vascular repair in eight patients. Median intraoperative blood transfusion was 2 (range 0-26) units; 14 patients required none. Median duration of TVE was 29 (range 5-58) min. No deaths occurred. Significant complications occurred in ten patients. Morbidity was related to the malignant nature of the lesion, duration of surgery and volume of blood transfusion, but not to duration of TVE. Conclusion TVE facilitates resection of critically located hepatic lesions with safety and minimal blood loss. Within the limits of 1 h, prolonged TVE does not increase morbidity.
Extent of double strandedness in avian myeloblastosis virus RNA.

Abstract The extent of double strandedness of avian myeloblastosis virus 70S RNA has been determined from fluorescence measurements of the intercalation of ethidium bromide. We have shown that 50% of the nucleotides of 70S RNA in solution are in a stable helical configuration. This value does not include small helical regions that are too unstable to permit intercalation of the dye. The avian myeloblastosis virus RNA as it exists within the virion has the same degree of helicity as the free 70S RNA. Heating the free 70S RNA to 55 or 70 C, followed by cooling, does not measurably change the degree of helicity; the subunits therefore have as much helicity as the parent molecule.
Spacecraft Power System Compatibility and Stability for the NASA EOS Satellite

This paper addresses the problem of system stability of the NASA EOS satellite power system. A potential stability problem exists without a clear specification of the payload input impedance characteristic. Design guidelines are established for the control of the power system and the individual subcomponents to help insure stability with an unknown complex load. A testbed of the EOS power system is employed to verify the analysis.
Comment on: The adsorption of molecular oxygen on neutral and negative AuN clusters (N=2–5) [Chem. Phys. Lett. 359 (2002) 493]

A recent report by Mills et al. [1] compares their theoretical work on adsorption of molecular oxygen on gold cluster anions to previous experimental work performed in our laboratory. They present binding energies that seem to be inconsistent with the experiment, and suggest that the conclusions arrived at from the experimental results may be incorrect. In this comment, we provide a quantitative basis for criticizing the experimental method, showing the nature and magnitude of the inconsistencies, and providing a partial reconciliation with the theoretical results.
Critical thermal maxima in knockdown-selected Drosophila: are thermal endpoints correlated?

SUMMARY To explore the correlation of traits linked to thermotolerance, we compared three thermal endpoints (knockdown temperature and two critical thermal maxima) among replicate populations of Drosophila melanogaster selected for high, or low, knockdown temperature. The high knockdown flies maintain normal posture and locomotor ability within a knockdown column at temperatures ⩾40°C, whereas the low knockdown flies fall out of the column at much cooler temperatures (∼35°C, on average). The critical thermal maximum (CTmax) for respiratory control in the selected knockdown populations was determined by analyzing CO2 output of individuals during exposure to a temperature ramp (from 30°C to> 45°C) and was indicated by an abrupt alteration in the pattern of CO2 release. The CTmax for locomotor function was determined by monitoring activity (concurrent with CO2 analysis) during the temperature ramp and was marked by the abrupt cessation of activity. We hypothesized that selection for high knockdown temperature may cause an upward shift in CTmax, whereas selection for low knockdown may lower CTmax. Correlations among the three thermal endpoints varied between the high and low knockdown flies. Finally, we compared metabolic profiles, as well as Q10 values, among the high and low knockdown males and females during the temperature ramp.
Introduction to ‘Tools of the Trade’

The pace of methods development for cognitive neuroscience is absolutely blinding, and shows no hints of slowing down. Every month, methods-oriented journals print many papers outlining methods that, were they widely disseminated and implemented, could help cognitive neuroscientists optimize their experimental designs, data acquisition and analysis schemes. Unfortunately, few researchers in the social, cognitive and affective neurosciences have the time and/or technical expertise to read these papers and understand how the methods could potentially impact their research. The editorial board of SCAN realizes the importance of keeping on top of methodological developments, and has established the Tools of the Trade section as an outlet for brief reviews of new methodological developments in the field of cognitive neuroscience. Edited by Russell Poldrack and Tor Wager, the goal of the Tools of the Trade section will be to publish short reviews (generally 2–5 journal pages) that outline state of the art methods in terms accessible to a broad audience. These reviews will focus on areas of active growth and emphasize the practical essentials of the technique, accompanied where possible by downloadable software that makes the technique available to the cognitive neuroscience community. Upcoming topics and authors include: Peter Bandettini: Parallel imaging Christian Beckmann: Exploratory data analysis techniques Bruce Fischl: Surface-based normalization James Haxby: Multi-voxel pattern analysis Tom Liu: Experimental design Torben Lund: Modeling physiological nuisance parameters Thomas Nichols: Multiple comparison procedures and thresholding Russell Poldrack: Reverse inference Tor Wager: Robust group analysis We encourage suggestions from readers regarding methodological topics of interest. We also encourage researchers from the methodological arena to submit other ideas for reviews to the editors. We hope that this section of the journal will become a well-known and highly regarded outlet for brief reviews of methodological topics.
Compositional variation within the epoxy/adherend interphase

At a polymer-solid interface, an inorganic adherend may influence the structure and/or chemistry of the polymer in the near-interface region. This region between the adherend and the homogeneous polymer is referred to as the interphase. While there is general agreement that interphases exist, extensive debate revolves around the characteristic length scale of the interphase and its composition and structure. The present study examines the size and composition of the epoxy-aluminum interphase using spatially resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) in a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). Aliphatic bis(p-aminocyclohexyl)methane (PACM20) curing agent and aromatic diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A (DGEBA) epoxy resin were selected as a model system. Spatially resolved π - π *, carbon, and thickness profiles were measured using EELS in the epoxy region immediately adjacent to the interface between the bulk epoxy and the nanoporous oxide on the aluminum adherend surface. These profiles sys...
Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of low-pressure burner flames

A low pressure premixed gas burner flame is probed using FTIR spectroscopy. Species profiles obtained from line of sight absorbance spectra are analyzed using tomographic reconstruction. Future plans for applying this technique to the study of flames are discussed.
Influence of the water-accommodated fraction of no. 2 fuel oil on energetics of Cancer irroratus larvae

The influence of the water-accommodated fraction of No. 2 fuel oil on aspects of larval development of Cancer irroratus (Say) has been investigated. Rates of survival, respiration, ingestion and growth were estimated for both oil-treated and untreated larvae. Larvae reared in oil-treated water exhibited lower survival to megalopa than did larvae reared in untreated water. The presence of oil also altered several aspects of larval energetics. Reductions were seen in food consumption and growth rate while the metabolic cost of maintenance increased. One overall effect that may occur as a result of lowered larval survival and growth rate would be the reduction in larval recruitment in oil-polluted areas.
Membrane potentials of thin nitrocellulose membranes

The membrane potentials of thin (300–1300 A.) nitrocellulose (Parlodion) membranes have been investigated. Measurements were made in a Lucite cell by use of calomel electrodes with 0.05N KCl and 0.1N KCl. Variables having an influence on membrane structure, such as solvent polarity, temperature, and thickness, have been studied in relation to membrane potential. The range of potentials observed for Parlodion (2.1–9.2 mv.) is believed to be the result of differences in the orientation of the nitrocellulose molecules (and their accompanying electrochemically active carboxyl groups) in the membrane structure.
Burnout in medical students: a systematic review.

Summary Background Burnout is a state of mental and physical exhaustion related to work or care-giving activities. Distress during medical school can lead to burnout, with significant consequences, particularly if burnout continues into residency and beyond. The authors reviewed literature pertaining to medical student burnout, its prevalence, and its relationship to personal, environmental, demographic and psychiatric factors. We ultimately offer some suggestions to address and potentially ameliorate the current dilemma posed by burnout during medical education. Methods A literature review was conducted using a PubMed/Medline, and PsycInfo search from 1974 to 2011 using the keywords: ‘burnout’, ‘stress’, ‘well-being’, ‘self-care’, ‘psychiatry’ and ‘medical students’. Three authors agreed independently on the studies to be included in this review. Results The literature reveals that burnout is prevalent during medical school, with major US multi-institutional studies estimating that at least half of all medical students may be affected by burnout during their medical education. Studies show that burnout may persist beyond medical school, and is, at times, associated with psychiatric disorders and suicidal ideation. A variety of personal and professional characteristics correlate well with burnout. Potential interventions include school-based and individual-based activities to increase overall student well-being. Discussion Burnout is a prominent force challenging medical students’ well-being, with concerning implications for the continuation of burnout into residency and beyond. To address this highly prevalent condition, educators must first develop greater awareness and understanding of burnout, as well as of the factors that lead to its development. Interventions focusing on generating wellness during medical training are highly recommended.
A Modification of the Fresnel Rhomb

A rhomb consisting of two dense flint equilateral prisms may be used to deviate light and introduce polarization effects analogous to those of the Fresnel rhomb which displaces light. Because of the high index of the prism material (μD=1.650), the wavelength response of the prism rhomb is superior to that of the classical low index Fresnel rhomb. Perpendicular transit of glass surfaces and invariance of the direction of the emergent light apply for both types, but in other respects the rhombs are complementary. In addition, the necessary prisms are widely available commercially.
Predicting and modeling biological functions in body area network

Recent advances in Wireless Body Area Sensor Network (WBASN) technology has become a leading approach for several promising applications in the medical field. WBASN is the network is built with different kinds of physiological sensors which measures different vital parameters on the human body for the purpose of monitoring the patients. Prediction and modeling are very two important issues which are required to address while building a WBASN. To enhance the long-term critical health monitoring, a robust predictive approach should be incorporated in every WBASN system and it leads to saving computation time and increasing the energy.In this paper, we describe the use of polynomial regression for predicting and modeling biological functions. We also describe how effective different orders of polynomials can be. There are four functions that we use for this purpose: blood pressure, scalp EEG signals, the walking gait of people with neurodegenerative disorders, and lastly motor movement signals. We have also used two different degrees of polynomial functions to determine the predictive value.
Facilitating early career leadership through pre-service training

Current research indicates that new teachers want to be involved in school‐level decision‐making. Upon entering the profession, many novice teachers are surprised and disillusioned to find they have considerably less involvement and influence than expected. Based on strategies that have been developed, revised, and refined over a number of years in two teacher preparation programs in the eastern US, the current discussion proposes that teacher preparation programs incorporate training in school‐based management as a means to better prepare new teachers for the political realities of the profession. Intended for teacher educators, this paper describes how the research component common to most teacher education programs can be used as a venue to train teacher candidates in school‐based management.
Effects of tic suppression: ability to suppress, rebound, negative reinforcement, and habituation to the premonitory urge.

Abstract The comprehensive behavioral intervention for tics (CBIT) represents a safe, effective non-pharmacological treatment for Tourette's disorder that remains underutilized as a treatment option. Contributing factors include the perceived negative consequences of tic suppression and the lack of a means through which suppression results in symptom improvement. Participants ( n = 12) included youth ages 10–17 years with moderate-to-marked tic severity and noticeable premonitory urges who met Tourette's or chronic tic disorder criteria. Tic frequency and urge rating data were collected during an alternating sequence of tic freely or reinforced tic suppression periods. Even without specific instructions regarding how to suppress tics, youth experienced a significant, robust (72%), stable reduction in tic frequency under extended periods (40 min) of contingently reinforced tic suppression in contrast to periods of time when tics were ignored. Following periods of prolonged suppression, tic frequency returned to pre-suppression levels. Urge ratings did not show the expected increase during the initial periods of tic suppression, nor a subsequent decline in urge ratings during prolonged, effective tic suppression. Results suggest that environments conducive to tic suppression result in reduced tic frequency without adverse consequences. Additionally, premonitory urges, underrepresented in the literature, may represent an important enduring etiological consideration in the development and maintenance of tic disorders.
Autism spectrum disorder severity reflects the average contribution of de novo and familial influences

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a highly heterogeneous group of conditions—phenotypically and genetically—although the link between phenotypic variation and differences in genetic architecture is unclear. This study aimed to determine whether differences in cognitive impairment and symptom severity reflect variation in the degree to which ASD cases reflect de novo or familial influences. Using data from more than 2,000 simplex cases of ASD, we examined the relationship between intelligence quotient (IQ), behavior and language assessments, and rate of de novo loss of function (LOF) mutations and family history of broadly defined psychiatric disease (depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia; history of psychiatric hospitalization). Proband IQ was negatively associated with de novo LOF rate (P = 0.03) and positively associated with family history of psychiatric disease (P = 0.003). Female cases had a higher frequency of sporadic genetic events across the severity distribution (P = 0.01). High rates of LOF mutation and low frequencies of family history of psychiatric illness were seen in individuals who were unable to complete a traditional IQ test, a group with the greatest degree of language and behavioral impairment. These analyses provide strong evidence that familial risk for neuropsychiatric disease becomes more relevant to ASD etiology as cases become higher functioning. The findings of this study reinforce that there are many routes to the diagnostic category of autism and could lead to genetic studies with more specific insights into individual cases.
Risk stratification for long-term outcome after elective coronary angioplasty: A multivariate analysis of 5,000 patients

Abstract Objectives. We attempted to develop a statistical model to facilitate risk stratification for long-term outcome after elective coronary angioplasty. Background. Our understanding of factors related to long-term outcome after coronary angioplasty is limited. Adequate assessment of risk indexes could potentially lead to more appropriate use of percutaneous revascularization. Methods. We studied 5,000 consecutive patients and assessed 19 clinical and anatomic variables as predictors of long-term event-free survival. Events were defined as death of any cause, myocardial infarction, bypass surgery or repeat percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. Cox proportional hazards models were used to develop an equation for predicting event-free survival in a subset of 4,000 patients. The equation was validated with the remaining 1,000 patients. Variables that were significantly associated with an adverse outcome in the multivariate model included age >60 years, extent of disease, Canadian Cardiovascular Society functional class, previous coronary angioplasty, male gender, history of diabetes mellitus, history of hypertension and history of congestive heart failure. Results. The statistical model was used to develop a simplified scoring system, and the patients were assigned to three risk subgroups. Event-free survival curves for the three groups were significantly different (p = 0.0001). High risk patients had worse outcomes for each of the end points compared with low and moderate risk patients (p Conclusions. We demonstrated that clinical and anatomic variables can be used to risk-stratify long-term outcome after angioplasty, that a simplified scoring system can be used for risk stratification and that high risk patients have a low event-free survival.
What Are the Implications of the Institute of Medicine Report “The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health” for School Nursing Practice?

In 2010, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Initiative at the Institute of Medicine issued a comprehensive report entitled, “The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health.” The following is a synopsis of the report, including excerpts, recommendations, and a discussion of school nursing implications.
Using species distribution models as a tool to discover new populations of Phaedranassa brevifolia Meerow, 1987 (Liliopsida: Amaryllidaceae) in Northern Ecuador

Phaedranassa brevifolia Meerow (1987) is an endangered plant species endemic to Ecuador. Until recently, this species was only known by the type location and four other adjacent subpopulations in a restricted area of less than four km 2 . We combined geo-referenced occurrences of this species and bioclimatic variables to generate a prospective species distribution model. Using the resulting map as a guide for field work, we found three new populations of P. brevifolia, increasing its geographic distribution to 16 km 2 .
Too many faults, too little time on creating test sets for enhanced detection of highly critical faults and defects

When testing resources are severely limited, special attention must be paid to critical faults so that important or frequent field failures arising from test escapes can be minimized. We present a new algorithm to optimize test sets that considers the criticality of potential undetected defects throughout the testing process and dramatically reduces the criticality of test escapes.
Decomposition and construction of Markov chains

In [2, 3] and [51 Chung has considered a technique for decomposing a stochastic transition function (with a conservative initial derivative matrix and a finite passable Martin exit boundary). The decomposition is given in terms of a minimal transition function, entrance and exit laws with respect to the minimal transition function, and certain other parameters. In this paper we consider a similar decomposition in the case of an arbitrary stochastic transition function. The "boundary" of our decomposition consists of a finite number of regular points of the compactified state space corresponding to the given stochastic transition function. The minimal transition function is replaced by the transition function of a process which is killed whenever it hits the boundary. Considerable simplification results from the use of local time and from Neveu's idea of coupled entrance and exit laws (see [9J and [10]). In the last section we give a construction theorem for stochastic transition functions which is suggested by our decomposition.
Fasting induces an anti-inflammatory effect on the neuroimmune system which a high-fat diet prevents

The neuroimmunological and behavioral consequences of a high-fat diet (HFD) are not well delineated. This is especially true when short term (24 h) fasting is used as a physiologic stressor. In this study, we examined the impact of a HFD on learning and memory and depressive-like behaviors to understand how fasting impacts neuroimmunity and whether obesity modulates the response. Mice were fed diets containing either 10% (low-fat diet (LFD) mice) or 60% (HFD mice) calories from fat for 10–12 weeks. Gene transcripts for 26 pro-/anti-inflammatory cytokines and markers of macrophage activation were examined in adipose tissue and whole brain. Mouse learning and memory (spontaneous alternation, novel object) and depressive-like behaviors (saccharin preference, burrowing, forced swim) were studied in the fed and fasted state as were gene transcripts for F4/80, CD11b, interleukin-1α (IL-1α), IL-1β, IL-1R1, IL-1R2, IL-1RA, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α in cortex, hippocampus and hypothalamus. In the fed state, HFD mice compared to LFD mice had reduced locomotor activity, and were adverse to saccharin and burrowed less. After fasting, LFD mice vs. HFD mice lost 18 vs. 5% of their body weight, respectively. In addition, HFD mice failed to downregulate gene transcripts for the myeloid-cell associated proteins F4/80, CD11b and IL-1α in the brain, failed to appropriately explore a novel object, failed to reduce locomotor activity and had increased saccharin consumption and burrowing. These data indicate that fasting induces an anti-inflammatory effect on the neuroimmune system which a HFD prevents. This breakdown appears linked to the IL-1 system because of the association of this cytokine with memory and learning.
Ureteral replacement using the Yang-Monti principle: long-term follow-up.

Abstract Objectives To present the long-term results for 2 patients with ureteral replacement using reconfigured transversely tubularized bowel segments according to the Yang-Monti principle. Methods Between May 1999 and November 2001, 2 patients underwent ureteral replacement at our institution using a reconfigured ileal segment in one and colon in the other. The first patient was a 33-year-old man who had lost 6 cm of the proximal left ureter after two attempts to repair a ureteral stricture. A reconfigured small bowel tube was interposed between the proximal and distal ureteral stumps after excision of the left ureteral stricture. The second patient was a 66-year-old woman with a poorly functioning right kidney and total bilateral ureteral strictures resulting from radiotherapy for metastatic cervical cancer. She underwent complete left ureteral substitution with a double Monti sigmoid tube in association with a Boari flap. Results With a follow-up of 5.75 and 3.25 years, both patients were clinically doing well with a stable split renal function on mercaptotriglycylglycine renal scan and no evidence of obstruction. The man had required exploratory laparotomy 4 weeks postoperatively to correct a small bowel obstruction secondary to a bowel kink. Conclusions The transverse tubularized bowel tube is an effective technique for partial and complete ureteral replacement with sustained, good, long-term results. Reconfigured tubes of small or large bowel seem to promote an equally efficient urine transport mechanism that persists unaltered for long periods.
The immediate development of behavioral and biochemical changes following ventromedial hypothalamic lesions in rats.

The purpose of this investigation was to measure the changes in food intake and metabolic activity immediately following bilateral VMH lesions. Preoperative measures of serum glucose and epinephrine stimulated lipolysis were made on all S s. Both sham and lesioned S s were sacrificed at 2 hr, 8 hr, 24 hr, 3 days, 6 days, 12 days following surgery at which time measures were made of serum glucose, epinephrine stimulated lipolysis and carcass content. Food intake measures were made at 2, 4, 6, 8, 24 hr postoperative and at daily intervals thereafter for 12 days. The hyperphagia observed was clearly two-staged. The first stage began immediately following surgery and was characterized by 4–6 hr of continuous eating. Following a return to control levels the second stage began approximately 3 days following surgery and was characterized by discrete meals. The metabolic measures showed the lesioned S s to be hypoglycemic and to have a decreased epinephrine stimulated mobilization of free fatty acids at 3 days postoperative. The increase in body weight in the lesioned S s was found to be solely attributable to an increase in fat. These results were thought to indicate that the initial stage of hyperphagia is a function of irritation of areas surrounding the VMH while the second stage was thought to represent an attempt to restore the energy deficit created by the decreased lipolysis and increased lipogenesis.
Internalization of costs, liability and negligence, performance and reliance

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss incentive mechanisms and procedures for cost internalization by both potential defendants and plaintiffs.Design/methodology/approach – The approach taken is to rely on the concepts of liability, negligence, precaution and methodologies for estimation of compensatory damages in conjunction with the Coase theorem.Findings – The paper finds that the decision to internalize and minimize cost depends upon marginal precautionary costs and marginal expected harms.Research limitations/implications – Research needs to be conducted from a law and economic perspective on developing procedures for estimating precautionary costs and expected harms.Practical implications – This paper calls upon business firms and their stakeholders (primarily employees and customers) to use and pro‐actively manage their precautionary responsibilities and further refine the existing formulas. More specifically, it aims to help law and economics students as well as practitioners in law an...
Adjacent Segment Disease After Lumbar Spinal Fusion: A Systematic Review of the Current Literature

The objectives are to comprehensively define adjacent segment disease; highlight advances in the approach to spinal disorders, present the identified risk factors; examine outcomes; and summarize current recommendations. The literature supports previous degeneration and altered biomechanics of the spine as causes of adjacent segment disease. Excessive facet degeneration is a risk factor. Clinical outcome scores show improvement irrespective of procedure type. The number of spinal segments fused, fusion level, and age yield conflicting reports regarding their contribution to adjacent segment disease. Arthroplasty, dynamic stabilization, and interspinous process implants are effective in decreasing incidence.
Sensing the Microwave Poynting Vector with a Cadmium Manganese Telluride Electric/Magnetic Field Sensor

A map of the microwave Poynting vector along a 50-? microstrip was experimentally determined using a single cadmium manganese telluride crystal that exhibits both the Pockels and Faraday effects.
On Performance Comparison of Real and Synthetic Iris Images

In the absence of real data for extensive testing of newly designed large-scale biometrics recognition systems a number of solutions are possible including use of resampling methods, generation of synthetic data having properties similar to real data of interest, or use of analytical tools to predict the performance. Each of the methods has its own limitations. In this work, we focus on iris biometric. We briefly describe a model based approach to synthesize iris images and focus on performance comparison for synthesized and real iris images. Iris image processing assumes a traditional Gabor filter based encoding approach. Comparison of synthetic and real data is performed at three levels of processing: (1) image level, (2) texture level, and (3) decision level. The results indicate that in most cases the performance of synthesized iris images is comparable to the performance of the real iris images.
The Association of Perceived Provider–Patient Communication and Relationship Quality With Colorectal Cancer Screening

Background. Two-thirds of adults aged 50 years and older are adherent to recommendations for colorectal cancer screening. Provider–patient communication and characteristics of the patient–provider relationship may relate to screening behavior. Methods. The association of provider communication quality, relationship, and colorectal cancer screening was examined within data from the 2007 Health Information National Trends Survey. Results. Perceived provider communication and relationship quality were associated with both adherence to colonoscopy and with ever having been screened. Predictive margins analyses indicated that increasing perceptions from lowest to highest levels of communication and relationship quality would be associated with increases in screening rates approaching 16 percentage points. Conclusion. Improving provider–patient communication and relationship quality could potentially improve colorectal cancer screening behaviors among adults aged 50 years and older. Future research and clinical...
Overexpression of PNGase at from baculovirus-infected insect cells.

Peptide-N4-(N-acetyl-beta-d-glucosaminyl asparagine amidase) from Aspergillus tubigensis (PNGase At) was expressed in baculovirus-infected insect cells. The recombinant PNGase At was secreted and purified to homogeneity with a yield of 9.5 mg per liter of infected cell medium. Recombinant PNGase At migrated upon SDS-PAGE as a single-chain protein with a molecular mass of 78 kDa. This contrasts with the native Aspergillus enzyme which is "nicked" and migrates as two subunits each with a molecular weight about 43 kDa. Quantitation of total sugar by phenol-sulfuric acid suggests that the enzyme expressed in baculovirus-infected insect cells was substituted with 8-10 chains of carbohydrate of which 75% was released by Endoglycosidase F1. ESI-MS analysis of the oligosaccharides released from the recombinant PNGase At revealed similarity in the number of glycosylated residues but a significant difference in their composition, when compared to the carbohydrates of the native PNGase At. Despite differences in the primary structure and in the composition of glycan residues, the recombinant enzyme had the same specific activity as the native enzyme.