cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Should I Stay or Should I Go: A Clash of α-Cell Identity.

Understanding mechanisms for maintaining pancreatic islet cell fate and function is important for addressing the urgent challenge of restoring islet β- and α-cell function in T1DM. In this issue of Cell Metabolism, Chakravarthy et al. (2017) identify a genetic mechanism by which mouse β-cells are spontaneously regenerated from adult α-cells.
Growth Impact of Aid Quantity and Quality in Africa

This chapter employs parametric and nonparametric methods to examine the impact of aid (quantity and quality) on growth in the former British and French colonies of Africa over the period 1975–2010. The quantity of aid is proxied by a quadratic term of the aid variable while the quality, by different source of aid. Results indicate that foreign aid exhibits diminishing returns when a countries’ legal origin is taken into account. Bilateral aid is found to be effective only in the former British colonies, while multilateral aid generates growth regardless of legal origin but only above a certain threshold. Moreover, good governance is shown to stimulate growth and improve aid effectiveness.
Enzymatic Detection of Traumatic Brain Injury Related Biomarkers

Electrochemical detection methods have been popular in the medical diagnostics field. Several well-known devices such as the self-monitoring blood glucose meter have relied on electrochemical techniques for their sensitivity, and ability to make direct measurements without optical labels. Currently, no point-of-care or handheld diagnostic tool exists to quantify the severity of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). We have shown that enzymatic detection of norepinephrine (NE), a biomarker which can indicate TBI severity, using impedance-based electrochemical techniques can achieve the required sensitivity, ∼100 pg/mL. Furthermore, the first steps have been taken to quantify NE in whole blood solutions and to optimize the technique for a handheld device.
Correlates of Child Marriage in Zimbabwe

In countries where child marriage remains widespread, concerted efforts are underway to eliminate it, but overall progress remains uneven and slow. One in three Zimbabwean girls marries by age 18. ...
Automatic Identification of Use of Public Transportation from Mobile Sensor Data

Automatic analysis of a user's activity using data from smartphones has become commonplace. Current methods can distinguish modes of transportation such as standing still, walking, running, and traveling in a motor vehicle. However, there is not yet a way to determine automatically if a person is using public transportation or in a private vehicle. Developing this capability will enable novel ways of promoting public transportation use for sustainability. For instance, this information can be used to provide route-specific product/shopping recommendations/coupons. This work presents a novel means of identifying use of public transportation (bus) using sensor data typically collected using smartphones. The method extracts orientation-invariant features from segments of sensor measurements and then uses a subset of the data to train a random forest classifier. The trained classifier is able to identify which segments of accelerometer and gyroscope data represent instances of public transportation use. This method is evaluated using real-world data collected in the Los Angeles County and Orange County areas in southern California. Our results indicate that the method is able to distinguish the mode of transportation of the user in most cases with an f-score of approximately 96%.
Congenital muscular torticollis: current concepts and review of treatment.

AbstractPurpose of reviewThe purpose of this review is to better understand the spectrum of disease in torticollis, which is the third most common pediatric orthopaedic diagnosis in childhood. Besides the benign muscular tightness of the sternocleidomastoid muscle leading to the classic head positio
Spectral Classification of Dual Nuclear p16/Ki67 Positivity in Pap Smears

An automated detection and quantification of high-risk human papillomavirus immunostains in Pap smears can potentially improve the drawbacks of human observes, reduce the number of equivocal or misinterpreted cytologic specimens and increase the throughput of slide screening. Towards increasing the accuracy and efficacy of Pap smear screening, we tested a spectral imaging approach to quantify the dual p16/Ki67 immunoreactivity of epithelial cell nuclei in Pap smears. We demonstrated that the classification of spectral signatures extracted from nuclear pixels is helpful in detecting nuclei of cells that are positive for p16 and Ki67 and distinguishing them from other nuclei that are positive only for one or negative for both markers. Sensitivity of the proposed method was 84.4% whereas the specificity was 99.9%. Although our results are preliminary, they suggest that the implementation of spectral imaging and spectral classifications can potentially offer better nuclei screening performances than methods utilizing conventional RGB imaging.
Influence of the semiconductor/metal rear contact on the performance of n(a-Si:H)/i(a-Si:H)/p(c-Si) heterojunction solar cells

The aim of this work is to analyze on the results of using of Al/Ag layer as a rear contact to improve the performance of heterojunction silicon solar cells. An analytical method is presented to extract the physical parameters of the equivalent circuit. These parameters are extracted to simulate the I(V) characteristic of heterojunction silicon solar cells, with Al and Al/Ag rear-metal contact. A good agreement between our analytical method and experimental measurement of electrical characteristics is obtained which show clearly how the Al/Ag rear contact can improve the characteristics of silicon solar cells. The influence of the rear-metal contact on the performance of the c-Si(p)-based bifacial HIT solar cell, i.e., the ZnO/Al/a-Si:H(n)/a-Si:H(i)/c-Si(p)/metal solar cell, is investigated in detail by computer simulation using the AFORS-HET software. Accordingly, the design optimization of the bifacial HIT solar cells on c-Si(p) substrates is provided. These simulation show an optimal conversion efficiency of 23% when the rear-metal contact is perfectly ohmic.
The Influence of Original Host Rock Character Upon Alteration and Mineralization in the Tri-State District of Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma, U.S.A.

The genesis and character of the strata-bound ore deposits in the Tri-State district (Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma, U.S.A.) depend upon the interrelated sedimentary, tectonic, karst, and mineralizing processes that affected the host rocks.
A Randomized Crossover Comparison between Team-Based Learning and Lecture Format on Long-Term Learning Outcomes

There are limited data evaluating the effectiveness of different teaching pedagogies to maintain gains in learning achieved over the short term. The purpose of this study is to compare long-term learning outcomes between two different teaching pedagogies, team-based learning (TBL) and lecture. Within a therapeutic elective course a randomized crossover study was conducted with 30 students divided into two sections. Each section was taught six therapeutic topics (three TBL and three lecture). Six months following completion of the course, 47 assessment questions (application and recall multiple-choice questions) were re-administered to 16 students from the class with no prior announcement of the assessment. The results showed no significant difference in long-term assessment scores between TBL and lecture formats (67 ± 14% vs. 63 ± 16%, p = 0.2, respectively). In addition, there was a significant (p < 0.0001) and similar decline in short-term gains for TBL (90 ± 9% vs. 67 ± 14%) and lecture (86 ± 11% vs. 63 ± 16%) in assessment scores. In conclusion, there was no advantage gained by employing an active-learning pedagogy when assessing multiple-choice questions six months following end of a therapeutics course in a limited sample size. Neither pedagogy was able to maintain short-term gains in learning outcomes as assessed by multiple-choice questions.
The Use of Online Support Groups to Seek Information about Chronic Illness: Applying the Theory of Motivated Information Management

The growing number of adults living with chronic illness, combined with the increased availability of illness-specific online support groups, is changing the way individuals seek information about ...
Multiscale Dislocation-Based Plasticity

This chapter, outlines a multiscale dislocation-based plasticity framework coupling discrete dislocation dynamics (DDD) with continuum dislocation-based plasticity. In this framework, and guided by DDD, a continuum dislocation dynamics (CDD) plasticity model involving a set of spatio-temporal evolution equations for dislocation densities representing mobile and immobile species is developed. The evolution laws consist of a set of components each corresponding to a physical mechanism that can be explicitly evaluated and quantified from DDD analyses. In this framework, stochastic events such as cross-slip of screw dislocations and uncertainties associated with initial microstructural conditions are explicitly incorporated in the continuum theory based on probability distribution functions defined by activation energy and activation volumes. The result is a multiscale dislocation-based plasticity model which can predict not only the macroscopic material mechanical behavior but also the corresponding microscale deformation and the evolution of dislocation patterns, size and gradient-dependent deformation phenomena, and related material instabilities at various length and time scales.
Serum amyloid A concentration in postoperative colic horses and its association with postoperative complications.

Objective To determine serum amyloid A (SAA) concentrations in the postoperative (PO) colic horse and its association with PO complications and infection. Study design Prospective case series. Animals Fifty-one horses after colic surgery. Methods Blood samples from horses undergoing exploratory celiotomy were analyzed for quantitative SAA and fibrinogen concentrations and for neutrophil count at days 0, 1, 2, and 4-6 and at hospital discharge. Results Complications developed in 35 (69%) horses and included PO colic (n = 13, 25%), PO reflux (n = 11, 22%), intravenous catheter (IVC) complications (n = 11, 22%), low-grade fever (n = 11, 22%); surgical site infection (SSI; n = 9, 18%), high-grade fever (n = 7, 14%), and diarrhea (n = 4, 8%). There was an association between day 2 SAA and PO colic (P = .004), diarrhea (P = .042), IVC complications (P = .008), and PO reflux (P = .008) as well as day 4-6 SAA and PO colic (P = .004) and diarrhea (P = .018). Discharge SAA concentration was associated with SSI (P = .001). Fibrinogen concentrations at days 4-6 and at discharge were associated with PO colic (P = .003), diarrhea (P = .004), IVC complications (P = .002), and PO reflux (P = .023). No differences were seen in SAA, fibrinogen, or neutrophils between horses with PO infection vs those with non-infection-associated complications. Conclusion Serum amyloid A was markedly increased in the PO period in all horses but did not differ between PO infection and noninfection complications. The amount of inflammation associated with PO colic and colic surgery was high and may have affected the predictive value of SAA for early PO infection. Clinical significance Although increases occurred earlier, measurement of SAA with a point-of-care analyzer may not be a more sensitive indicator of infection in the early PO colic horse than fibrinogen concentration. Serum amyloid A may help detect SSI in the late PO period.
Abstract MP51: Sleep Characteristics and Adverse Social Exposures Elevate Blood Pressure in Young Black Females

Introduction: The prevalence of hypertension (HTN) in Black females is 46%, which is higher than males and other females in the United States. Among Black females, HTN develops at younger ages and ...
Projected climate change will reduce habitat suitability for bumble bees in the Pacific Northwest

Abstract Global climate change is the greatest environmental challenge of the modern era. The impacts of climate change are increasingly well understood, and have already begun to materialize across diverse ecosystems and organisms. Bumble bees (Bombus) are suspected to be highly sensitive to climate change as they are predominately adapted to temperate and alpine environments. In this study, we determine which bumble bee species are most vulnerable to climate change in the Pacific Northwest. The Pacific Northwest is a topographically complex landscape that is punctuated by two major mountain ranges and a labyrinth of offshore islands in the Salish Sea. Using standardized survey methods, our study documents the occurrence of 15 bumble bee species across 23 field sites in seven federal parks, historical sites, and monuments. Our results show that bumble bee community richness and diversity increases along an altitude gradient in these protected areas. Furthermore, NMDS analysis reveals that high altitude environments are composed of a unique group of bumble bee species relative to low altitude environments. Finally, based on an analysis of species distributions models that aggregate bioclimatic data from global circulation climate models with preserved specimen records, we discover that 80% of the bumble bee species detected in our survey are poised to undergo habitat suitability (HS) loss within the next 50 years. Species primarily found in high altitude environments namely B. vandykei, B. sylvicola, and B. bifarius are projected to incur a mean HS loss of 63%, 59%, and 30% within the federally protected areas, respectively. While the implementation of climate change policies continue to be a significant challenge, the development of mitigation strategies to conserve the most vulnerable species may be a tractable option for land managers and stakeholders of protected areas. Our study meets this need by identifying which species and communities are most sensitive to climate change.
Differentiating Inter-Hospital Transfer Types: Varied Impacts on LOS and Destination Choices

Inter-hospital transfer (IHT) has great impacts on patients. This study first differentiates between IHT types, namely clinical transfers and non-clinical transfers, and investigates their varying ...
Detection and occurrence of indicator organisms and pathogens

This review paper focuses on detection and quantification techniques of indicator organisms that can be used for water quality assessment. The environmental pathogens that are critical to understand and better evaluate water quality are also discussed in this paper. Several recent studies using culture-independent methods such as microbial source tracking, pulsed field gel electrophoresis, mitochondrial DNA, and next generation sequencing to assess various environmental samples and water bodies have been reviewed. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Various waterborne pathogens and cases of outbreak occurances due to presence of pathogens are studied in this review paper. Recent studies for detecting major indicator organisms to evaluate the presence of pathogens in water bodies are reviewed. Culture-independent techniques as robust tools to detect and quantify waterborne pathogens are discussed in this review paper.
Yoga as a Mind-Body Practice

Contrary to Western stereotypes that depict yoga as a practice of physical fitness, yoga is an integrated lifestyle consisting of varied practices, including ethics- and values-related commitments, physical practices, breathing practices, and interior practices (e.g., concentration, meditation), carried out with mindfulness and intention. Integrated yoga is suitable for all persons, regardless of age, physical abilities, gender, or body shape. All yoga practices, even yoga postures can be adapted, modified, and performed with the use of props that make them accessible to all. Integrated yoga is a powerful, effective intervention or adjunctive treatment for many physical and mental disorders through profound effects on anatomy, neurophysiology, cognition, emotion, behavior, and relationships. Salutary effects are mediated through enhancement of top-down processing that activates higher-level brain structures and networks (facilitating cognitive self-regulation through attentional control, mindfulness, executive functioning, and metacognititon) and bottom-up processing that activates lower-level brain structures and networks (facilitating physiological and emotional self-regulation, vagal tone, and parasympathetic nervous system engagement). Clinical trials have consistently demonstrated yoga interventions improve a variety of chronic conditions. Referral to yoga is underutilized by clinicians who fail to appreciate the powerful effects of yoga. Clinicians who want to make yoga resources available to their patients are best served by building a referral network of yoga teachers and therapists.
Determination of residual stress for Inconel 718 samples fabricated through different scanning strategies in selective laser melting

Selective laser melting (SLM) technique is a widely adopted fabrication procedure in metal additive manufacturing. One of the reasons for the extensive usage of SLM is the material freedom which it offers; therefore, Nickel alloy IN718 metal components were fabricated for this study. However, like in any manufacturing process, physical defects are evident in SLM fabricated parts. The origin of these defects can be attributed to the variation in the process parameters. For any physical components fabricated using the SLM technique, various stresses are developed due to the thermal gradients during the fabrication process. The developed stresses are hence termed as residual stresses. These stresses can be detrimental to the mechanical properties of the part. Residual stresses lead to warping of the part during the fabrication process, thereby leading to failure of the component. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the effect of change in process parameters on the residual stresses. Although each process parameter has its effect on the overall properties and residual stresses, to limit the scope of the study, the scan strategy is the only parameter that is varied. Scan strategies adopted here are checkered, stripes scan strategy, FO1, and customized scan strategy, where the angle between the consecutive layers has been changed consistently at an angle of 67° . In this study, the residual stresses are measured using the contour deflection method. Based on the results, various levels of residual stresses were observed for different scan strategies. It was concluded that a more uniform scan strategy results in less residual stress.
A Case of EBV-Negative Aggressive NK-cell Leukemia: Use of Next-Generation Sequencing in Demystifying a Diagnostic Dilemma and Guiding Clinical Care.

Clinical Practice Points • Aggressive NK-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ANKL) is a rare natural killer (NK)-cell malignancy, and although it typically presents as rapidly progressive disease, cases may present more indolently, progressing over months rather than weeks. • Unlike the more common extranodal NK-cell leukemia/lymphoma, ANKL may not involve the nasopharynx and can be Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) negative. • Diagnosing ANKL can be challenging. Although not yet standard of care, next-generation sequencing and digital image analysis can be used to clarify this rare diagnosis and confirm EBV negativity. • Treatment of ANKL utilizes asparaginase-based regimens, unlike the anthracycline-based regimens used in peripheral T-cell lymphomas or myeloid disorders. Ensuring the correct diagnosis is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment regimen for this uncommon disease.
Prediction of Impending Septic Shock in Children With Sepsis.

Objectives Sepsis and septic shock are leading causes of in-hospital mortality. Timely treatment is crucial in improving patient outcome, yet treatment delays remain common. Early prediction of those patients with sepsis who will progress to its most severe form, septic shock, can increase the actionable window for interventions. We aim to extend a time-evolving risk score, previously developed in adult patients, to predict pediatric sepsis patients who are likely to develop septic shock before its onset, and to determine whether or not these risk scores stratify into groups with distinct temporal evolution once this prediction is made. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Academic medical center from July 1, 2016, to December 11, 2020. Patients Six-thousand one-hundred sixty-one patients under 18 admitted to the Johns Hopkins Hospital PICU. Interventions None. Measurements and main results We trained risk models to predict impending transition into septic shock and compute time-evolving risk scores representative of a patient's probability of developing septic shock. We obtain early prediction performance of 0.90 area under the receiver operating curve, 43% overall positive predictive value, patient-specific positive predictive value as high as 62%, and an 8.9-hour median early warning time using Sepsis-3 labels based on age-adjusted Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score. Using spectral clustering, we stratified pediatric sepsis patients into two clusters differing in septic shock prevalence, mortality, and proportion of patients adequately fluid resuscitated. Conclusions We demonstrate the applicability of our methodology for early prediction and stratification for risk of septic shock in pediatric sepsis patients. Through analyses of risk score evolution over time, we corroborate our past finding of an abrupt transition preceding onset of septic shock in children and are able to stratify pediatric sepsis patients using their risk score trajectories into low and high-risk categories.
Subdural Empyema

Subdural empyema represents loculated infection between the outermost layer of the meninges, the dura, and the arachnoid. The empyema may develop intracranially or in the spinal canal. Intracranial subdural empyema is most frequently a complication of sinusitis or, less frequently, otitis or neurosurgical procedures. Spinal subdural empyema is rare and may result from hematogenous infection or spread of infection from osteomyelitis. The most common organisms in intracranial subdural empyema are anaerobic and microaerophilic streptococci, in particular those of the Streptococcus milleri group (S. milleri and Streptococcus anginosus). Staphylococcus aureus is present in a minority of cases, and multiple additional organisms, including Gramnegative organisms, such as Escherichia coli, and anaerobic organisms, such as Bacteroides, may be present. Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Staphylococcus epidermidis may be present in cases related to neurosurgical procedures, and Salmonella species have been detected in patients with advanced AIDS; multiple organisms may be present simultaneously. Spinal subdural empyemas are almost invariably caused by streptococci or by S. aureus. Subdural empyema—whether it occurs in the skull or the spinal canal—may cause rapid compression of the brain or spinal cord, and represents an extreme medical and neurosurgical emergency. The diagnostic procedure of choice for intracranial and spinal subdural empyema is MRI with gadolinium enhancement. Computed tomography scan may miss intracranial subdural empyemas detectable by MRI. Conversely, occasion spinal subdural empyemas may be detected by CT myelography where MRI is negative. Treatment in virtually all cases of intracranial or spinal subdural empyema requires prompt surgical drainage and antibiotic therapy. Pus from the empyema should always be sent for anaerobic, as well as aerobic, culture. Because intracranial subdural empyemas may contain multiple organisms, provisional antibiotic therapy of intracranial subdural empyema, where the organism is unknown, should be directed against S. aureus, microaerophilic and anaerobic streptococci, and Gram-negative organisms. Antibiotics should include 1) nafcillin, oxacillin, or vancomycin; plus 2) a third generation cephalosporin; plus 3) metronidazole. Provisional antibiotic therapy of spinal subdural empyemas should be directed against S. aureus and streptococci, and should include nafcillin, oxacillin, or vancomycin. Morbidity and mortality in intracranial and spinal subdural empyema relate directly to the delay in institution of therapy. Both conditions should, thus, be treated with great urgency.
Team-based Learning in Gross Anatomy Improves Academic Performance and Perceptions of Teamwork

As healthcare becomes more interdisciplinary in patient care, it is essential for students to master group problem solving and develop an appreciation for team collaboration. Team-based learning (T...
Prevalence of complementary medicine use in a phase 1 clinical trials program: the MD Anderson Cancer Center Experience.

BACKGROUND: A key end point of early cancer clinical trials is the assessment of toxicities and their possible association with new experimental drugs. Therefore, the concurrent use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in patients with advanced malignancies seen in a dedicated phase 1 clinic was evaluated. METHODS: An investigator-designed survey was anonymously completed by patients seen in the phase 1 clinic. Pharmacologic CAM included any oral, topical, or intravenous agent, including vitamins, dietary supplements, and herbal products. Nonpharmacologic CAM included prayer, meditation, hypnosis, massage, and acupuncture. RESULTS: Of the 404 patients approached about completing the CAM survey, 394 (98%) agreed to respond, and 309 (78%) surveys were returned. Of those 309 patients, 162 (52%) used 1 or more CAM. Of the 162 CAM users, 77% utilized pharmacologic CAM, 71% used nonpharmacologic CAM, and 48% used both modalities. The most frequent CAM used were vitamins (70%), prayer (57%), and herbal products (26%). CAM utilization was not significantly associated with race, age, level of education, employment, or income level but was used more by women than men (P 5 years. Only 5% reported having side effects from using CAM, whereas 23% did not fully disclose their CAM use to their physicians. CONCLUSIONS: CAM usage is common in patients with advanced malignancies seen in a phase 1 clinic. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Utilising Ultrafast Lasers for Multiphoton Biomedical Imaging

This chapter covers the benefits and applications of ultrafast laser scanning microscopes from a biomedical perspective. The basic architecture of a laser microscope is discussed, including how to design a laser scanning system with lateral and axial control. Also investigated is the design of custom collection optics for optimizing the detection of emitted photons and maximizing that emitted fluorescence in the presence of photobleaching. In addition, this chapter addresses three techniques novel to the biomedical community. The first is the technique of temporal focusing and its application toward wide-field imaging and micromachining. Also investigated is the concept of photon counting in multiphoton microscopy and how this approach to imaging has become practical for everyday use. Finally, several different methods are revealed for implementing spectral imaging with a multiphoton microscope platform.
Amino acid availability from selected animal‐ and plant‐ derived feedstuffs for market‐size sunshine bass (Morone chrysops × Morone saxatilis)

A study was conducted with market-size (867 g) hybrid striped bass to determine the nutrient digestibility and apparent amino acid availability of six common feedstuffs. The animal-protein feedstuffs tested were menhaden fish meal (MEN), anchovy fish meal (ANCH), pet-food grade poultry by-product meal (PBM-pet), and feed-grade poultry by-product meal (PBM-feed), while the plant-protein feedstuffs were dehulled solvent extracted soybean meal (SBM) and distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS). Test diets consisted of a 70 : 30 mixture of reference diet to test ingredient with chromic oxide (10 g kg−1%) as the inert marker. Diets were randomly assigned to triplicate tanks of fish that were fed their respective diets for 7 days prior to fecal collection by stripping. Two feeding trials were conducted sequentially to determine the digestibility of the six test ingredients. In trial 1, the three ingredients evaluated were MEN, PBM-feed, and PBM-pet. In trial 2, the three ingredients evaluated were ANCH, SBM, and DDGS. Apparent digestibility coefficients of protein (ADC-CP) were significantly (P < 0.05) different among test ingredients in trial 1 as protein digestibility of MEN (86%) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of PBM-feed (75%), but was not significantly different from that of PBM-pet (78%). Protein digestibilities in trial 2 were not significantly different among test ingredients and averaged 76% for ANCH, SBM, and DDGS. Some apparent amino acid availability coefficients differed among feedstuffs for both trial 1 and trial 2. MEN provided higher amino acid availabilities for alanine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, lysine, valine, and tryptophan (99%, 98%, 94%, 96%, 99%, and 108%, respectively) when compared to PBM-feed (73%, 50%, 69%, 80%, 77%, and 91%, respectively) and PBM-pet (79%, 66%, 81%, 81%, 78%, and 99% respectively). Glycine, histidine, leucine, and proline availabilities in MEN (95%, 96%, 100%, and 98%, respectively) were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than those of PBM-feed (64%, 82%, 82%, and 57%, respectively), but were not significantly different from PBM-pet (85%, 92%, 89%, and 80%, respectively). For trial 2, apparent amino acid availabilities for cystine, isoleucine, lysine, and tyrosine were significantly higher (P < 0.05) among treatments fed SBM (100%, 87%, 93%, and 97%, respectively) and ANCH (37%, 95%, 92%, and 84%, respectively) compared to treatments fed DDGS (−13%, 52%, 62% and 62%, respectively). Overall, amino acid availability in SBM and the two PBM’s appear comparable to MEN and ANCH and corroborate their high value as potential replacements for fish meal in sunshine bass diets. However, DDGS provided the lowest availabilities for several amino acids and should be used with caution.
Intracaval Resection of a Partially Obstructing Intravascular Hemangioma using Deep Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest

We report a case of an obstructing hemangioma within the lumen of the inferior vena cava adjacent to the hepatic veins. The technique of resection and pathology are described.
Interaction of epidermal growth factor with its receptor.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the interactions of protein molecules, with other proteins, nucleic acids, or other important biological components, has been tremendously enhanced, by the development of simple and efficient in vitro mutagenesis procedures. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is a prototypical peptide growth factor, whose mitogenic role in signal transduction, is attributed to its action as an allosteric regulator of the intrinsic protein-tyrosine kinase activity of the cell surface EGF receptor. Analysis of the in vitro mutagenesis data in light of the structural and sequence conservation information has made it possible to assign the relative importance of nearly every critical residue in the EGF molecule, in terms of its role, in maintaining the required protein tertiary structure and in receptor binding and activation. These studies have generated as novel EGF analogues, with potential applications, for example, in deciphering the ligand-binding residues of the EGF receptor, in sorting out the chain of events in signal transduction, and as EGF antagonists in potential cancer therapy.
Perioperative Care of Children with Eisenmenger Syndrome Undergoing Non-cardiac Surgery

The Eisenmenger syndrome (ES) is a severe form of pulmonary arterial hypertension and arises in congenital heart disease with a systemic-to-pulmonary shunt. Patients with ES have multisystem involvement as a result of chronic hypoxemia with hematologic, skeletal, renal, and neurologic systems, causing significant morbidity and mortality. In contrast to pulmonary arterial hypertension, survival prospects are far superior in patients with ES and a growing number of ES patients are surviving into adulthood. As a result, many face the prospect of incidental surgery. To date, there is no guideline for the perioperative care of ES patients in children and limited data available for adult patients. This review provides an overview of appropriate measures for the safe perioperative care of patients, based on an understanding of the pathophysiological changes that occur in ES.
Differential Effects of the Two Types of Information Systems: A Hospital-Based Study

A new empirical model for the production function of the hospital incorporating two types of information systems (IS) is developed. One type of IS is representative of information technology (IT) used in primary, clinical, value-chain activities, and the other is representative of the IT used in support (administrative) value-chain activities. The model innovation is that it accommodates up to a seven-year lag for each type of IS. The output variables for the production function are hospital output and medical labor productivity. Using data spanning from 1979 to 2006 from several hospitals, it was found that clinical IS improve hospital output in the short run (of two years). Administrative IS were found to be negatively associated with organizational performance in the short run, but positively associated with these performance measures over the long run (over four years). These results highlight the importance of timing IT investments and the sequencing chosen for the implementation of IS presenting various value-chain activities, and the resulting pattern of business value over time. Differential lag length of the types of IS is to be considered in estimating the rate of return of new IT projects.
Fine mapping of the qCTS4 locus associated with seedling cold tolerance in rice ( Oryza sativa L.)

Rice seedlings are sensitive to low temperatures (≤15°C) and under prolonged or repeated exposure, yellowing and stunting are commonly observed. Damage to seedlings results in poor stand establishment and delayed maturation, which can cause significant reductions in yield. In general, japonica rice varieties exhibit more cold tolerance than indica varieties. Earlier genetic analysis of the California rice variety M202 revealed several quantitative trait loci (QTL) that contribute to its tolerance to low temperatures in comparison to the indica rice variety IR50. Among these QTL, qCTS4 is associated with tolerance to yellowing and stunting of rice seedlings and accounts for 40% of the phenotypic variation. Here we report on the fine mapping of qCTS4 to a 128 kb region of chromosome 4, which is highly suppressed for recombination in our mapping populations. Our results provide the necessary foundation for identifying the gene(s) underlying qCTS4 and the markers developed here may be used to introgress this region into indica varieties to improve seedling tolerance to low temperatures.
Characterization and Localization of the Campylobacter jejuni Transformation System Proteins CtsE, CtsP, and CtsX

The human pathogen Campylobacter jejuni is naturally competent for transformation with its own DNA. Genes required for efficient transformation in C. jejuni include those similar to components of type II secretion systems found in many Gram-negative bacteria (R. S. Wiesner, D. R. Hendrixson, and V. J. DiRita, J Bacteriol 185:5408-5418, 2003, http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/JB.185.18.5408-5418.2003). Two of these, ctsE and ctsP, encode proteins annotated as putative nucleotide binding nucleoside triphosphatases (NTPases) or nucleoside triphosphate (NTP) binding proteins. Here we demonstrate that the nucleotide binding motifs of both proteins are essential for their function in transformation of C. jejuni. Localization experiments demonstrated that CtsE is a soluble protein while CtsP is membrane associated in C. jejuni. A bacterial two-hybrid screen identified an interaction between CtsP and CtsX, an integral membrane protein also required for transformation. Topological analysis of CtsX by the use of LacZ and PhoA fusions demonstrated it to be a bitopic, integral membrane protein with a cytoplasmic amino terminus and a periplasmic carboxyl terminus. Notwithstanding its interaction with membrane-localized CtsX, CtsP inherently associates with the membrane, requiring neither CtsX nor several other Cts proteins for this association.
Creening of combinatorial peptide libraries: Identification of ligands for affinity purification of proteins using a radiological approach

Peptides deduced from peptide libraries may serve as affinity ligands for protein purification. Identification of a ligand that binds the protein of interest depends highly on the screening method used. One approach which offers simple and direct detection involves screening a solid-phase peptide library against a radiolabeled target protein. We have developed a radiological screening method, using 14C as a radioactive label, that offers high resolution and sensitivity. Less than 100 DPM/bead are detectable after a one-day exposure using autoradiography. The validity of the technique was illustrated by screening a solid-phase hexameric-peptide library spiked with YNFEVL-beads against 14C-labeled ribonuclease S-protein. For this particular system, the amount of protein bound to a single bead was estimated to be in the femtomolar range with a peptide:protein ratio of 500:1. Finally, a portion of the library was screened against 14C-labeled fibrinogen. Three peptides deduced from the library, WQEHYN, WQETYQ, and YENYGY, purified fibrinogen from a mixture with albumin.
Simulation optimization: a new approach

We present a method for efficiently solving stochastic optimization problems of discrete event systems. The new method, the nested partitions (NP) method, uses partitioning, random sampling, selection of a promising index, and backtracking techniques to crete a Markov chain which has been proven with probability one to converge to a global optimum. One important feature of the NP method is that it can combine global search and local search procedures in a natural way. In particular, many sample path analysis techniques such as perturbation analysis and concurrent simulation can be effectively incorporated into the method. The NP method is demonstrated through a numerical example.
Buckling, postbuckling, and nonlinear vibrations of imperfect plates

Formulations and computational procedures are presented for studying the geometrically nonlinear behavior, including buckling, postbuckling, and nonlinear vibrations of perfect and imperfect, isotropic and laminated thin plates. The finite-element method is used. The element used is a 48 degree-of-freedom thin flat plate rectangular element capable of modeling arbitrary imperfections. The incremental and total stiffness matrices for large displacement behavior are derived based on the total Lagrangian approach in conjunction with the Hamilton's principle. The geometric imperfections are treated by considering additional terms in the straindisplacement relations. Numerical results are presented for a variety of examples including: 1) postbuckling analysis of an isotropic, imperfect flat plate; 2) postbuckling analysis of a thin, cross-ply laminated imperfect plate; 3) free vibrations of an angle-ply laminated plate; 4) free-vibrations of an imperfect isotropic plate under the action of axial loads; 5) nonlinear free-vibrations of isotropic perfect flat plates; 6) nonlinear vibrations of axially loaded, isotropic perfect flat plates; and 7) nonlinear vibrations of an imperfect laminated plate. The results obtained in this study are compared with existing solutions and a good agreement is seen.
Property‐based sequence representations do not adequately encode local protein folding information

We examine the informatic characteristics of amino acid representations based on physical properties. We demonstrate that sequences rewritten using contracted alphabets based on physical properties do not encode local folding information well. The best four-character alphabet can only encode ∼57% of the maximum possible amount of structural information. This result suggests that property-based representations that operate on a local length scale are not likely to be useful in homology searches and fold-recognition exercises. Proteins 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Extended-state mobility in hydrogenated amorphous silicon

Abstract We use the results of time-of-flight experiments in conjunction with recent conclusions about the behavior of the density of localized states below the conduction-band mobility edge to calculate the mobility of electrons moving in extended states in a-Si:H. We find that the extended-state mobility is considerably larger than previous estimates, which were based on the assumption that the exponential behavior responsible for dispersive transport extends all the way to the mobility edge. Using a recent estimate for the density of localized states, we find that the extended state mobility in a-Si:H is about 500 cm2/V-s, a value consistent with the results deduced from high-level injection experiments on p-i-n structures.
Cloning and characterization of a novel gene, SHPRH, encoding a conserved putative protein with SNF2/helicase and PHD-finger domains from the 6q24 region☆

Here we report the identification of a novel transcript containing SNF2, PHD-finger, RING-finger, helicase, and linker histone domains mapping to the q24 band region of human chromosome 6. These domains are characteristic of several DNA repair proteins, transcription factors, and helicases. We have cloned both human and mouse homologs of this novel gene using interexon PCR and RACE technologies. The human cDNA, termed SHPRH, is 6018 bp and codes for a putative protein of 1683 amino acids. The mouse cDNA, termed Shprh, is 7225 bp and codes for a putative protein of 1616 amino acids. The deduced amino acid sequences of the two proteins share 86% identity. Both genes are expressed ubiquitously, with a transcript size of ∼7.5 kb. Mapping of this gene to 6q24, a region reported to contain a tumor suppressor locus, prompted us to evaluate SHPRH by mutation analysis in tumor cell lines. We have identified one truncating and three missense mutations, thus suggesting SHPRH as a possible candidate for the tumor suppressor gene.
Notes and comments: The training of X-ray spectroscopists

One of the current problems in the application of the X-ray spectrometer is the training of operators in the use of instrumentation and techniques. One of the usual consequences of rapid expansion in the use of any instrumental procedure is the lack of general experience and expertise, and in this X-ray spectrometry is no exception. As a technique it has only recently been introduced into the syllabus of the appropriate university course of study and, at the present time, this only at a very few universities. Training in X-ray spectrometry has therefore become very much an extra-mural course of study and among the more successful groups to offer courses in the U.S.A. has been the State University of New York at Albany. The following short report by Professor Chessin gives an informal description of the background of his ‘Clinics’ and describes some of his experiences.
Survey of Gastroenterologists' Awareness and Implementation of AGA Guidelines on Osteoporosis in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients: Are the Guidelines Being Used and What Are the Barriers to Their Use?

Background: The American Gastroenterology Association (AGA) published guidelines to assist clinicians in the evaluation and management of osteoporosis in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. Two studies suggest that when clinicians utilized the guidelines, the majority of their IBD patients were appropriately screened and treated for metabolic bone disease. The aim was to study whether physicians who say they use the AGA Guidelines are, in fact, following the recommendations, and to assess the barriers preventing the use of the guidelines in the management of osteoporosis in their IBD patients. Methods: In all, 1000 physicians were selected from the AGA membership list and mailed a survey inquiring into awareness and implementation of the guidelines on osteoporosis in IBD patients. The barriers to implementation of the guidelines were also assessed. The sum of 21 self-reported clinical practices (absence = 0, presence = 1) was used to evaluate adherence to the guidelines. A value of 0 implied no adherence while a score of 21 meant complete adherence. Results: Of 304 responders, 27 fellows, 8 retirees, and 11 incomplete responses were not included in the analysis; thus, 258 respondents were the subject of this analysis. Slightly less than half of the responders used the guidelines in decision-making (126, 49%) or in the management (110, 42%) of their IBD patients. Using the scoring system described above, clinicians self-reporting use of the guidelines had a significantly higher clinical practice score than those who did not use the guidelines (Wilcoxon rank sum test; P 25%) were also more likely (97/187 = 52%) to assess and treat osteoporosis in their IBD patients. Conversely, only 16% (11/68) of physicians who saw ≤25% IBD patients treated osteoporosis (chi-square test; P < 0.0001). The main reason physicians (n = 115) gave for not utilizing the guidelines was because they felt that IBD should be the focus of the visit (48, 42%); 34 (30%) reported that osteoporosis should be managed by another physician. Other barriers cited were lack of time (13, 11%), cost (10, 9%), and lack of knowledge (10, 9%). Conclusions: Most of the responding physicians do not utilize the AGA Guidelines on metabolic bone disease in IBD patients. The physicians who self-reported utilizing the guidelines were actually adhering to the recommendations. Further education regarding the impact of metabolic bone disease in IBD patients and the importance of the guidelines is needed, particularly as it addresses the barriers set forth above. (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2009)
Nanocrystalline Thermoelectric Ca3Co4O9 Ceramics by Sol−Gel Based Electrospinning and Spark Plasma Sintering

A novel technique is developed to process nanocrystalline Ca3Co4O9 ceramics with much enhanced thermoelectric properties. Nanocrystalline Ca3Co4O9 nanofibers are synthesized first using sol−gel bas...
Pancreatic arteriography, transhepatic pancreatic venography, and pancreatic venous sampling in diagnosis of pancreatic cancer

Arteriography with visualization of small intrapancreatic arteries is a sensitive method in the diagnosis of pancreatic carcinoma. It can detect small intrapancreatic tumors and differentiate neoplasms from other pancreatic lesions. It also aids in staging pancreatic cancer and determining resectability. Transhepatic pancreatic venography is less sensitive than arteriography but it also can be useful in evaluating tumor operability. Pancreatic venous sampling is an important method for localizing hormone-secreting islet cell tumors.