cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neural encoding of single-formant stimuli in the ventral cochlear nucleus of the chinchilla

Responses of the principal unit types in the ventral cochlear nucleus of the chinchilla were studied with a single-formant stimulus set that covered fundamental frequency (f0) from 100 Hz to 200 Hz and formant center frequency (F1) from 256 to 782 Hz. Temporal coding for f0 and F1 was explored for 95 stimulus combinations of f0 (n=5) and F1 (n=19) in primarylike, onset and chopper unit categories. Several analyses that explored temporal coding were employed including: autocorrelation, interspike interval analysis, and synchronization to each harmonic of f0. In general, the representation of f0 is better in onset and chopper units than in primarylike units. Nearly all units in the cochlear nucleus showed a gain in phase locking to the envelope (f0) of the single-formant stimulus relative to the auditory nerve. The fundamental is represented directly in neural discharges of units in the cochlear nucleus with an interval code (also Cariani and Delgutte, 1996; Rhode, 1995). The formant is represented in the temporal domain in primarylike units, though some chopper and onset units also possess the ability to code F1 through discharge synchrony. Onset-I units, which are associated with the octopus cells, exhibited the strongest phase locking to f0 of any unit types studied. The representation of f0 and F1 in the temporal domain is weak or absent in some units. All-order-interspike interval distributions computed for populations of units show preservation of temporal coding for both f0 and F1. Results are in agreement with earlier amplitude modulation studies that showed nearly all cochlear nucleus unit types phase lock to the signal envelope better than auditory nerve fibers over a considerable range of signal amplitudes.
Cellulase screening by iodine staining: An artefact

Abstract Hydrolysis zones visualized by iodine ( KI/I 2 ) staining of cellulose-agar media after growth of Trichoderma reesei QM6a, RUT C30, QM9136 ( cellulase negative ) or Thielavia terrestris cultures, or incubation of crude endoglucanases and amylases, were due primarily to degradation of a small amount of starch contaminant in commercial agar and not to cellulolysis as recently suggested. No zones were evident when amylase-digested agar or Gelrite was used as the gelling agent or when purified cellobiohydrolase and endoglucanase were used. Cellulase screening free from artefacts is best obtained by growing cultures on acid-swollen or crystalline cellulose with Gelrite as optimal gelling agent, followed by incubation at elevated temperature to enhance visualization of hydrolysis zones while restricting fungal growth, but without additional staining .
Actuation failure modes and effects analysis for a small UAV

Existing low-cost unmanned aerospace systems are unreliable, and engineers must blend reliability analysis with fault-tolerant control in novel ways. This paper performs a conventional failure modes and effects analysis for a small unmanned aerial vehicle and extends the analysis by examining nonlinear and linear system properties. Failure likelihood, severity, and risk are qualitatively assessed for several effector failure modes. Vehicle tolerance of elevator actuator failures is studied further using high-fidelity simulations, and the achievable steady, wings-level flight envelope is determined for the healthy and damaged vehicle. This paper analyzes simulation and experimental flight data, revealing insight regarding significant performance limitations for adaptive/reconfigurable control algorithms on similar low-cost platforms.
A report of 6 children with small bowel intussusception that required surgical intervention

Abstract Background/Purpose We aim to justify the need for surgical intervention in our patients with childhood small bowel intussusceptions (SBIs) and review the current concepts in childhood SBI. Materials and Methods We retrospectively reviewed the clinical charts of all patients with surgically confirmed SBI between July 1999 and October 2002. Demographic data, clinical presentation and investigations, operative and pathologic findings, and outcome were analyzed. Results Of 173 patients with intussusception, 6 (3.5%) were diagnosed with SBI. Median age was 11 months. Ultrasonography revealed intussusceptions in all patients, but only 1 was diagnosed with SBI. Air enema reductions were attempted in 4 of 6 patients with all ending up in failure and surgery. Surgery revealed ileoileal intussusceptions in 4 patients and jejunojejunal intussusceptions in 2 patients. Two patients had long intussusceptions measuring between 30 and 50 cm in length. Five patients had pathologic lead points, and bowel complications occurred in 2 patients. All underwent bowel resection and primary anastomosis. Conclusion Despite reports on spontaneous reduction of SBI, surgery was unavoidable in all our patients with SBI because of the presence of pathologic lead points and/or bowel complications. Air enema reduction was ineffective in SBI. Due caution should be exercised when selecting patients for expectant management.
High-power frequency multiplication using beam lead varactors in arrays

Beam lead varactors arranged in an array are used as a composite varactor in a high-power microstrip thin-film frequency quadrupler. Less than 6 dB conversion loss is obtained for 2.250 to 9.000 GHz frequency conversion at 2 watts input peak power.
Raman Spectroscopic Evidence for Two Conformations of Uncomplexed Valinomycin in the Solid State

Raman spectroscopy is applied for the first time to elucidate the different conformations of the carrier transport molecule, valinomycin. Splitting of the ester and amide carbonyl stretch vibrations is observed in the Raman spectrum of crystals of valinomycin grown from both n -octane and acetone. These observations support the contention that some ester carbonyl groups are intramolecularly hydrogen bonded. The Raman spectrum of valinomycin grown from o-dichlorobenzene does not display this feature.
Mechanisms of Phase Formation During Milling in the Ternary Immiscible Ag-Cu-Fe System

Powder blends consisting of prealloyed FCC Ag-Cu solid solutions and elemental Fe powders were ball milled in overall compositions of Ag25Cu50Fe25, andAg40Cu20Fe40. The phase evolution with milling time was investigated by x-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry. For the sample with higher Cu concentration, a ternary FCC alloy phase was formed, while milling the other sample resulted in a two phase mixture consisting of a Ag-rich FCC and an Fe-rich BCC solid solution. About the same amount of enthalpy between 12 and 13 kJ/g-atom is stored in the final states for the two different compositions. Two models based on kinetic and energetic considerations will be discussed and compared to the results. The kinetic model is based on the competition between forced atomic motion during shearing, which is driving the system towards a homogeneous alloy, and thermally activated diffusion, which favors phase separation. For the energetic model, the energy balance is calculated and a phase transformation is expected, if the required energy can be stored in phase boundaries.
Transforming Potential of the Herpesvirus Oncoprotein MEQ: Morphological Transformation, Serum-Independent Growth, and Inhibition of Apoptosis

Marek’s disease virus (MDV) induces the rapid development of overwhelming T-cell lymphomas in chickens. One of its candidate oncogenes, meq (MDV Eco Q) which encodes a bZIP protein, has been biochemically characterized as a transcription factor. Interestingly, MEQ proteins are expressed not only in the nucleoplasm but also in the coiled bodies and the nucleolus. Its novel subcellular localization suggests that MEQ may be involved in other functions beyond its transcriptional potential. In this report we show that MEQ proteins are expressed ubiquitously and abundantly in MDV tumor cell lines. Overexpression of MEQ results in transformation of a rodent fibroblast cell line, Rat-2. The criteria of transformation are based on morphological transfiguration, anchorage-independent growth, and serum-independent growth. Furthermore, MEQ is able to distend the transforming capacity of MEQ-transformed Rat-2 cells through inhibition of apoptosis. Specifically, MEQ can efficiently protect Rat-2 cells from cell death induced by multiple modes including tumor necrosis factor alpha, C2-ceramide, UV irradiation, and serum deprivation. Its antiapoptotic function requires new protein synthesis, as treatment with a protein synthesis inhibitor, cycloheximide, partially reversed MEQ’s antiapoptotic effect. Coincidentally, transcriptional induction of bcl-2 and suppression of bax are also observed in MEQ-transformed Rat-2 cells. Taken together, our results suggest that MEQ antagonizes apoptosis through regulation of its downstream target genes involved in apoptotic and/or antiapoptotic pathways.
African American parents' behaviors and attitudes about substance use and abuse.

Abstract Limited information exists about African American parents' substance use and attitudes, independent of how they relate to their children. This study examined whether the behaviors and attitudes of a sample of African American parents differed from the general population of adults. Results indicated their attitudes were relatively more conservative, and that alcohol and illicit drug use were lower. Cigarette and marijuana use were comparable. Correlations between attitudes and behaviors were found. Findings suggest that increased educational efforts are needed among parents, especially about cigarettes, marijuana, and the negative impact these attitudes and behaviors may have on their children.
First Report of Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus in Greenhouse Tomatoes in Kentucky

Abstract Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV), genus Begomovirus in the family Geminiviridae, was identified for the first time in the United States in Florida in 1997 and since then has been repo...
A study of flame-vortex interactions in the presence of residual gases

In this work the effects of residual combustion products from a prior injection on flame extinction characteristics in a Diesel fuel pulse are investigated through a fundamental study. A numerical code with sixth-order accurate spatial discretization and multiple-step chemical kinetics is used to simulate flame-vortex interactions under Diesel conditions in the presence of residual combustion product mixtures. The results indicate that there is a balance between the heating effect of the high-temperature combustion products that enhance flame stability and the dilution effect of the reduced oxygen concentration, which promotes extinction. These counteracting aspects of the entrained combustion products can lead to an ideal dwell time between multiple injection events for optimum benefits in flame stability.
Nonlinear Optical Polymers for Electrooptical Devices

Although organic crystals may be used to experimentally verify the large nonlinearities and short response times of organics, such crystals are not acceptable for device applications due to significant fabrication difficulties. Further, the bulk material nonlinearity is a function of molecular orientation and symmetry which may not be controlled during the crystallization process. Nonlinear optical polymers have been synthesized at Hoechst Celanese for which the active NLO unit is attached to the polymer backbone as a pendant side chain. Control of orientation and symmetry of the unit is achieved by poling in an external electric field at elevated temperatures resulting in second order susceptibilities larger than inorganic crystals. The polymers have attractive secondary properties (i.e., optical transparency, high glass transition temperatures which are controlled by adjusting the side chain length and nature of the polymer backbone, low dielectric constants, and flat frequency respose). Further, single mode waveguides may be fabricated by spin coating. Deposition of electrodes on the waveguide permits application of an external field which changes the material’s index of refraction due to the linear electrooptical effect. Thus, a host of electrooptical waveguide devices may be constructed which operate at low voltages and very high frequencies.
Probabilistic estimation of precipitation combining geostationary and TRMM satellite data

This paper presents a methodology for estimating precipitation that combines precipitation rates observed by the TRMM satellite with infrared/- visible (IR/VIS) images by geostationary satellites. The method detects IR patterns associated with convective storms and characterizes their evolution phases. Precipitation rates are estimated for each phase using IR/VIS and terrain information. The approach is shown to improve the integration of TRMM precipitation rates and IR/VIS data by differentiating major storms from smaller events and noise, and by separating the precipitation regime characteristic of each storm phase. Further, the procedure explicitly quantifies the uncertainty of the precipitation estimates by computing their probability distribution. The methodology was tested in the Lake Victoria basin during the period 1996-1998 against data from >100 raingauges, showing lower bias and better correlation with ground data than commonly used methods, and reproducing the variability of precipitation over a range of temporal and spatial scales.
Low-pressure headache presenting in early pregnancy with dramatic response to glucocorticoids: a case report

Introduction Obstetricians are familiar with postural headaches in their postpartum patients following spinal or epidural anaesthesia. The rare occurrence in the antepartum patient without inciting event, may pose a diagnostic and treatment dilemma with resultant prolongation of disabling headaches in affected patients. Awareness of this condition, if accurately diagnosed, may allow for earlier relief from disabling headache, which may take weeks to months to otherwise resolve.
Molecular Phylogenetic Analysis of a Bacterial Community in an Oligotrophic Cave Environment

While much work has been carried out on cave communities that obtain energy from measurable exogenous energy sources (surface organics, sulfide or nitrite), very little work has been carried out on communities that subsist in regions of nutrient scarcity. In this study we generated a 16S SSU-rDNA clone library from an oligotrophic, bacterial community that occurs on a wall in Fairy Cave, Glenwood Springs, Colorado, in the absence of observable energy sources. Thirty-eight unique phylotypes based on restriction fragment length polymorphisms were identified and sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis of the sequences revealed that these phylotypes did not correspond to any known sequence, but were related to organisms in the bacterial divisions Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Cytophagales and the Low G+C gram-positive bacterial relatedness group. Comparative metabolic analysis suggests that the bacterial community subsists using a complex metabolic network, with input from trace organics within the environment or ...
Deaf Children's Knowledge of Internal Human Anatomy:

The purpose of this study was to investigate deaf children's knowledge of internal human anatomy. A static group comparison design was used to gather data from 80 deaf children and 190 hearing children who attended either a local public school for the deaf and the blind, or the regular public schools. Children were assigned to three groups according to age: 5–7 years, 8–11 years, and 12–15 years. Differences in deaf and hearing children's scores on the Draw-A-Person Test of general abilities were not statistically significant. Children's knowledge of internal body parts was assessed using a projective drawing test. Results indicated that (a) deaf children in successively older age groups knew more internal body parts than the younger subjects, and (b) deaf children in all three age groups knew significantly less about internal body parts than subjects in their normally hearing cohort.
Ion channel targets and treatment efficacy in neuropathic pain.

Abstract Chronic neuropathic pain due to injury or dysfunction of the nervous system remains a formidable treatment challenge in spite of a growing range of medication choices. We review current clinical research supporting the use of ion channel modulators for neuropathic pain states. New modes of local drug delivery, novel Ca 2+ channel targets, and increased choices for drugs with activity at Na + channels are transforming this longstanding therapeutic strategy. Clinical decision making is increasingly informed by a more nuanced understanding of the role of voltage-gated Na + channels (VGSCs) and Ca 2+ channels (VGCCs) in the pathophysiology of nerve injury. Although holding great promise for the future, mechanism-based approaches to treatment will require greater understanding of the analgesic mechanisms of drug action and of the relationships between pathophysiologic mechanisms and clinical presentation. Perspective Treatment options for neuropathic pain targeting ion channels have grown rapidly in the past decade. An evolving body of clinical research supports the widespread use of this longstanding therapeutic strategy. Improved efficacy of ion channel modulators hinges upon further elucidation of the relationship between signs and symptoms of pain and underlying pathophysiology.
The evolution of Darwinian liberalism

From John Locke and Adam Smith to Herbert Spencer and Friedrich Hayek, the central idea of classical liberalism has been the thought that the social orders of morals, markets, laws, and politics can emerge as spontaneous orders—as largely self-regulating and unintended orders arising from the interaction of individuals pursuing their individual ends. Darwinian evolutionary science supports this idea by showing how evolutionary order can arise from the evolution of self-ownership, property, and mammalian sociality and the evolution of exchange and the division of labor. In developing these points, I argue for a Darwinian liberalism.
Influence functions of some depth functions, and application to depth-weighted L-statistics

Depth functions are increasingly being used in building nonparametric outlier detectors and in constructing useful nonparametric statistics such as depth-weighted L-statistics (DL-statistics). Robustness of a depth function is an essential property for such applications. Here, robustness of three key depth functions, spatial, simplicial, and generalised Tukey, is explored via the influence function (IF) approach. For all three depths, the IFs are derived and found to be bounded, an important robustness property, and are applied to evaluate two other robustness features, gross error sensitivity and local shift sensitivity. These IFs are also used as components of the IFs of associated DL-statistics, for which through a standard approach consistency and asymptotic normality are then derived. In turn, the asymptotic normality is applied to obtain asymptotic relative efficiencies (ARE). For spatial depth, two forms of weight function suggested in the recent literature are considered and AREs in comparison wit...
Towards Failure-Free Design: Reducing Dimensionality in Function-Failure Similarity Analysis for Large Databases

When designing products, it is crucial to assure failure and risk-free operation in the intended operating environment. Failures are typically studied and eliminated its much as possible during the early stages of design. The few failures that go undetected result in unacceptable damage and losses in high-risk applications where public safety is of concern. Published NASA and NTSB accident reports point to a variety of components identified as sources of failures in the reported cases. In previous work, data from these reports were processed and placed in matrix form for all the system components and failure modes encountered, and then manipulated using matrix methods to determine similarities between the different components and failure modes. In this paper, these matrices are represented in the form of a linear combination of failures modes, mathematically formed using Principal Components Analysis (PCA) decomposition. The PCA decomposition results in a low-dimensionality representation of all failure modes and components of interest, represented in a transformed coordinate system. Such a representation opens the way for efficient pattern analysis and prediction of failure modes with highest potential risks on the final product, rather than making decisions based on the large space of component and failure mode data. The mathematics of the proposed method are explained first using a simple example problem. The method is then applied to component failure data gathered from helicopter accident reports to demonstrate its potential.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Factors associated with high short-acting β2-agonist use in urban children with asthma

Abstract Background One goal of guideline-based asthma therapy is minimal use of short-acting β 2 agonist (SABA) medications. Inner-city children with asthma are known to have high SABA use. Objective To examine factors associated with high SABA use in inner-city children with asthma. Methods One hundred inner-city children with persistent asthma were enrolled into a randomized controlled trial of an emergency department (ED) and home intervention. All children underwent serologic allergen specific IgE and salivary cotinine testing at the ED enrollment visit. Pharmacy records for the past 12 months were obtained. Number of SABA fills during the past 12 months was categorized into low- to moderate- vs high-use groups. SABA groups were compared by the number of symptom days and nights, allergen sensitization, and exposures. Regression models were used to predict high SABA use. Results Mean number of SABA fills over 12 months was 3.12. Unadjusted bivariate analysis showed that high SABA users were more than 5 times more likely to have an asthma hospitalization, almost 3 times more likely to have an asthma intensive care unit admission, and more than 3 times more likely to have prior specialty asthma care or positive cockroach sensitization than low to moderate SABA users. In the final regression model, for every additional inhaled corticosteroid fill, a child was 1.4 times more likely and a child with positive cockroach sensitization was almost 7 times more likely to have high SABA use when controlling for prior intensive care unit admission, receipt of specialty care, child age, and income. Conclusion Providers should closely monitor SABA and controller medication use, allergen sensitization, and exposures in children with persistent asthma. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT01981564.
Finding Fair Value in Global Equities: Part I

This article, the first of a two-part series, develops a framework for comparative valuation of major equity markets around the world. The authors outline four stages of a dividend discount model and the sensitivity of the model’s valuation results to key assumptions.They then summarize their results using the following three valuation scenarios: 1) central scenario—values the market taking the bond yield as a given and using an equity risk premium (ERP) adjusted for the economic environment; 2) fair value scenario—values the market assuming that the ERP and the bond yield are at their “fair value” levels given the economic environment; and 3) equilibrium value scenario—values the market assuming the long-run average ERP and a real bond yield of 2%; this scenario is a not a measure of current fair value, but a measure of the upside potential for markets if the discount rate were to normalize.
Stress Analysis and Testing at the Marshall Space Flight Center to Study Cause and Corrective Action of Space Shuttle External Tank Stringer Failures

After the launch scrub of Space Shuttle mission STS-133 on November 5, 2010, large cracks were discovered in two of the External Tank intertank stringers. The NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, as managing center for the External Tank Project, coordinated the ensuing failure investigation and repair activities with several organizations, including the manufacturer, Lockheed Martin. To support the investigation, the Marshall Space Flight Center formed an ad-hoc stress analysis team to complement the efforts of Lockheed Martin. The team undertook six major efforts to analyze or test the structural behavior of the stringers. Extensive finite element modeling was performed to characterize the local stresses in the stringers near the region of failure. Data from a full-scale tanking test and from several subcomponent static load tests were used to confirm the analytical conclusions. The analysis and test activities of the team are summarized. The root cause of the stringer failures and the flight readiness rationale for the repairs that were implemented are discussed.
Self-enhancement and theory-based correction processes

Two studies examined bias correction by manipulating a perceived chronic judgmental bias (i.e., overestimator/underestimator) using a modified dot estimation task. In Experiment 1, participants corrected for this perceived estimation bias by making adjustments away from the arbitrary feedback about their personal bias tendencies. In Experiment 2, the perceived desirability of the same estimation bias was manipulated. Results indicated that self-enhancement concerns impacted perceivers’ motivation to correct, at a cost to accuracy. These studies expand our current understanding of theory-based correction by including self-enhancement motives as causes of correction, demonstrating that such corrections can decrease rather than increase judgment accuracy, and illustrating the usefulness of a new perceived bias manipulation in theory testing.
Long-Term Exercise Training for an Individual With Mixed Corticobasal Degeneration and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Features: 10-Year Case Report Follow-up

Background and Purpose This case report describes the effects of long-term (10-year) participation in a community exercise program for a client with mixed features of corticobasal degeneration (CBD) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). The effects of exercise participation on both functional status and brain volume are described. Case Description A 60-year-old male dentist initially reported changes in gait and limb coordination. He received a diagnosis of atypical CBD at age 66 years; PSP was added at age 72 years. At age 70 years, the client began a therapist-led community group exercise program for people with Parkinson disease (PD). The program included trunk and lower extremity stretching and strengthening, upright balance and strengthening, and both forward and backward treadmill walking. The client participated twice weekly for 1 hour for 10 years and was reassessed in years 9 to 10. Outcomes Falls (self-reported weekly over the 10-year period of the study by the client and his wife) decreased from 1.9 falls per month in year 1 to 0.3 falls per month in year 10. Balance, walking endurance, and general mobility declined slightly. Gait speed (both comfortable and fast) declined; the client was unable to vary gait speed. Quantitative brain measurements indicated a slow rate of whole brain volume loss and ventricular expansion compared with clients with autopsy-proven CBD or PSP. Discussion This client has participated consistently in a regular group exercise program for 10 years. He has reduced fall frequency, maintained balance and endurance, and retained community ambulation using a walker. Combined with the slow rate of brain volume loss, this evidence supports the efficacy of a regular exercise program to prolong longevity and maintain function in people with CBD or PSP.
Stair falls: caregiver’s “missed step” as a source of childhood fractures

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to describe fractures sustained by children and to analyze the associated costs when a caretaker falls down stairs while holding a child. Materials and methods Between 2004 and 2012, 16 children who sustained a fracture after a fall down stairs while being carried by a caregiver were identified. Parents/caregivers were interviewed to see how the fall occurred, and a cost analysis was performed. Results The average age of the patients was 14.5 months (7–51 months). The lower extremity was involved in 15 of 16 fractures, with 8 involving the femur. The majority were buckle fractures, but all diaphyseal femur fractures were spiral. Three patients required a reduction in the operating room. All fractures healed with cast immobilization. Five patients underwent skeletal surveys, as the treating physicians were concerned about potential child abuse. The average cost of treatment was $6785 (range $948–45,876). Detailed histories from the caregivers showed that th...
The ontogenetic complexity of developmental constraints

Developmental constraint is a theoretically important construct bridging ontogenetic and evolutionary studies. We propose a new operationalization of this notion that exploits the unusually rich measurement structure of landmark data. We represent landmark configurations by their partial warps, a basis for morphospace that represents a set of localized features of form. A finding of developmental constraint arises from the interplay between age-varying’ means and age-specific variances in these subspaces of morphospace. Examination of variances and means in 16 ventral skull landmarks in the cotton rat S. fulviventer at ages 1, 10, 20, and 30 days yielded three types of developmental constraint: canalization (constraint to relatively constant form age by age); chreods (reduction of variance orthogonal to the mean trajectory over ages); and opposition (reduction of age-specific variance ulong the mean trajectory over ages). While canalization and chreodic constraints have been noted previously, the oppositional type of constraint appears novel. Only one of our characters, relative length and orientation of the incisive foramen, appears to be canalized. Although skull growth becomes increasingly integrated through ontogeny, our characters display a remarkable spatiotemporal complexity in patterns of variance reduction. The specific assortment of constraints observed may be related to the precociality of Sigmodon. We suggest that Waddington’s diagrammatic presentation of the “epigenetic landscape” may be misleading in quantitative studies of developmental regulation.
Phineas among the phrenologists: the American crowbar case and nineteenth-century theories of cerebral localization

✓ In 1848, Mr. Phineas Gage suffered destruction of his left frontal lobe in a unique fashion: passage of a metal rod through his head after a freak explosion. His change in character after the accident is the index case for personality change due to frontal lobe damage. Yet, from 1848 to 1868, it was widely believed among American physicians that he was mentally intact. The case was used as evidence against phrenology, a crude precursor of modern cerebral localization theories. The two original reports of the case by Drs. John Harlow (Gage's physician) and Henry J. Bigelow show subtle differences in attitude toward Gage's posttraumatic character change. In his 1848 report, Harlow promised a further communication that would address Gage's “mental manifestations.” Bigelow's article portrayed Gage as fully recovered. Although delayed by 20 years, Harlow's second report rapidly changed the perception of the case in the medical community, as reflected by contemporary citations. The educational backgrounds of ...
Reducing Water Seepage with Anionic Polyacrylamide: Application Methods and Turbidity Effects

Researchers used column and flume experiments with uniform silica sand with and without suspended solids to examine the extent and longevity of hydraulic conductivity reduction (HCR) resulting from three anionic polyacrylamide (PAM) application methods, liquid injection, slurry surface, and granular surface application. Low turbidity (0.4 NTU) liquid injection column tests showed 20–65% HCR, likely caused by an extensional viscosity mechanism. HCR increased as turbidity increased, especially at low PAM concentrations. High turbidity (100 NTU) liquid injection column tests showed 66–77% HCR, likely through surficial PAM–clay aggregate filtration. Column and adsorption tests strongly suggest PAM–sand adsorption does not cause substantial HCR. In low turbidity flume tests, PAM slurry application to the sand surface produced up to 100% HCR, likely through a viscosity mechanism, and granular application to the media surface produced up to 100% HCR, likely through fixed surficial polymer gel formation. Hydrauli...
Preliminary characterization of two atypical soluble guanylyl cyclases in the central and peripheral nervous system of Drosophila melanogaster

SUMMARY Conventional soluble guanylyl cyclases form α/β heterodimers that are activated by nitric oxide (NO). Recently, atypical members of the soluble guanylyl cyclase family have been described that include the ratβ 2 subunit and MsGC-β3 from Manduca sexta . Predictions from the Drosophila melanogaster genome identify three atypical guanylyl cyclase subunits: Gyc-88E (formerly CG4154 ), Gyc-89Da (formerly CG14885 ) and Gyc-89Db (formerly CG14886 ). Preliminary data showed that transient expression of Gyc-88E in heterologous cells generated enzyme activity in the absence of additional subunits that was slightly stimulated by the NO donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP) but not the NO donor DEA-NONOate or the NO-independent activator YC-1. Gyc-89Db was inactive when expressed alone but when co-expressed with Gyc-88E enhanced the basal and SNP-stimulated activity of Gyc-88E, suggesting that they may form heterodimers in vivo . Here, we describe the localization of Gyc-88E and Gyc-89Db and show that they are expressed in the embryonic and larval central nervous systems and are colocalized in several peripheral neurons that innervate trachea, basiconical sensilla and the sensory cones in the posterior segments of the embryo. We also show that there are two splice variants of Gyc-88E that differ by seven amino acids, although no differences in biochemical properties could be determined. We have also extended our analysis of the NO activation of Gyc-88E and Gyc-89Db, showing that several structurally unrelated NO donors activate Gyc-88E when expressed alone or when co-expressed with Gyc-89Db.
Port-access approach for combined aortic and mitral valve surgery

A technique is described for combined aortic and mitral valve operation utilizing the minimally invasive Port-Access technique. Two patients are repaired with excellent chest wall healing and avoidance of sternotomy.
Momentum space orthogonal polynomial projection quantization

The orthogonal polynomial projection quantization (OPPQ) is an algebraic method for solving Schrodinger's equation by representing the wave function as an expansion in terms of polynomials orthogonal with respect to a suitable reference function R(x), which decays asymptotically not faster than the bound state wave function. The expansion coefficients are obtained as linear combinations of power moments . In turn, the 's are generated by a linear recursion relation derived from Schrodinger's equation from an initial set of low order moments. It can be readily argued that for square integrable wave functions representing physical states . Rapidly converging discrete energies are obtained by setting Ω coefficients to zero at arbitrarily high order. This paper introduces an extention of OPPQ in momentum space by using the representation , where Q n (k) are polynomials orthogonal with respect to a suitable reference function T(k). The advantage of this new representation is that it can help solving problems for which there is no coordinate space moment equation. This is because the power moments in momentum space are the Taylor expansion coefficients, which are recursively calculated via Schrodinger's equation. We show the convergence of this new method for the sextic anharmonic oscillator and an algebraic treatment of Gross–Pitaevskii nonlinear equation.
Acute circulatory failure secondary to myocardial infarction.

Shock occurring during the course of acute myocardial infarction is sometimes reversible by relatively simple means, such as expansion of the circulating blood volume. True cardiogenic shock is quite another matter. Basically the outcome hinges on how much functioning myocardium remains and on how much the attending physician knows about the syndrome. In many coronary care units, clinical vigilance must make up for suboptimal equipment.
Examining the Educational Benefits of and Attitudes toward Closed Captioning Among Undergraduate Students

Closed-captioning technology has been available for decades and is often used by individuals with disabilities to access video-based information. Course-related videos are routinely shown in college classrooms throughout the United States, however it is unknown if closed-captions are educationally beneficial for all students. The purpose of this study was to examine the educational benefits of closed-captioning among undergraduate students without disabilities and their associated attitudes toward the technology. The use of closed-captions adheres to the principles of Universal Design that encourages stakeholders to build environments and products that are accessible to all individuals. However, more evidence-based research is needed on the utility of this technology in college classrooms. Two separate video-based studies were conducted at one university and groups were randomly assigned to “caption” or “no caption” conditions. It was hypothesized that exposure to closed-captions would increase students’ recall and understanding of video-based information and improve attitudes toward the technology. Results suggested that participants who were exposed to closed-captions scored significantly higher on the subsequent assessment. Participants who already used closed-captions in their daily lives had significantly more positive attitudes toward the technology. Recommendations for further study are provided.
Some Noticeable Problems in the Analytical Determintation of Yellow Rice Wine

Some noticeable problems were put forword in the analytical determination of yellow rice wine in this paper,as follows: 1. The standard liquid concentration of NaOH and nephely and chroma of yellow rice wine samples had influence on the determination. 2. Lanthanum salt liberative agent had influence on applied atomic absorption methods in the determination of calcium oxide content.3. Drying temperature had influence on the determination of solid material index.4.The determination accuracy of the whole bacterial groups.(Tran.by YUE Yang)
Death cause and disease burden of residents with circulatory diseases in Dongtai in 2009-2011

Objective To analyze the death cause and disease burden of residents with circulatory diseases in Dongtai,and to provide scientific evidence for disease prevention. Methods The death data were retrieved from China Death Registration and Report System and analyzed using parameters as mortality rate,years of potential life lost(YPLL),working years of potential life lost(WYPLL)and valued years of potential life lost(VYPLL). Results The standardized mortality rate was 1 608.8per million which was slightly lower in male residents and 79.95% were seniors over 71.The standardized YPLL rate was 4.88‰ which was higher in males than in females and the highest of 11.74‰ was found in age group of 65to 70.The standardized WYPLL rate was 3.20‰.It was significantly higher in males compared to females and the highest of 6.34 ‰ was in age group of 40to 65.The corrected standardized VYPLL rate was-10.36‰and it was 7.70‰in 40-65age group. Conclusions Circulatory diseases are the major death causes among residents in Dongtai.Males aged 35-64are more likely to die from these diseases.Therefore,more attention should be paid to this population in order to reduce the loss of life and labor.
Can somatosensory evoked potential monitoring predict energy dynamics during controlled hypotension

AbstractSomatosensory evoked potentials and redox (reduction/oxidation ratio) of cytochrome a,a3 were studied simultaneously before, during, and after controlled hypotension used for arteriovenous malformation resection. These studies were also conducted before and after ED-IC (external-internal carotid) bypass procedures for treatment of patients with transient ischaemic attacks. The former served as an acute model and the latter as a chronic model of low blood flow (ischaemia). The use of non-invasive reflection spectrophotometry (for redox studies) in conjunction with somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP) has demonstrated that metabolic and electrophysiological changes parallel each other during "controlled" hypotension. The authors conclude that an analysis of SSEP changes are valuable in the study of metabolic and functional states of the brain during controlled hypotension. [Neurol Res 1992; 14: 325-329]
Identification of Penile Prosthetic Infection on 67Gallium Scan

We report on a patient who presented with unexplained fever 7 weeks after placement of a penile prosthesis. A whole body 67gallium scan demonstrated a peri-prosthetic infection, which was confirmed at surgery.
Human T lymphotropic virus I, myelopathy, polymyositis and synovitis: an expanding rheumatic spectrum.

A black woman developed chronic myelopathy, polymyositis and synovitis. Although native of a nonendemic area the possibility of human T lymphotropic virus I association was considered. She tested positive and was serendipitously found to have been positive 16 years before. Risk factors were a transfusion and work as a serology technician. Sjogren's syndrome, alveolitis, gammopathy and immune dysfunction are other rheumatic manifestations of this virus.
MO-B-BRC-00: Prostate HDR Treatment Planning - Considering Different Imaging Modalities

Brachytherapy has proven to be an effective treatment option for prostate cancer. Initially, prostate brachytherapy was delivered through permanently implanted low dose rate (LDR) radioactive sources; however, high dose rate (HDR) temporary brachytherapy for prostate cancer is gaining popularity. Needle insertion during prostate brachytherapy is most commonly performed under ultrasound (U/S) guidance; however, treatment planning may be performed utilizing several imaging modalities either in an intra- or post-operative setting. During intra-operative prostate HDR, the needles are imaged during implantation, and planning may be performed in real time. At present, the most common imaging modality utilized for intra-operative prostate HDR is U/S. Alternatively, in the post-operative setting, following needle implantation, patients may be simulated with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Each imaging modality and workflow provides its share of benefits and limitations. Prostate HDR has been adopted in a number of cancer centers across the nation. In this educational session, we will explore the role of U/S, CT, and MRI in HDR prostate brachytherapy. Example workflows and operational details will be shared, and we will discuss how to establish a prostate HDR program in a clinical setting. Learning Objectives: 1.Review prostate HDR techniques based on the imaging modality 2.Discuss the challenges and pitfalls introduced by the three imagebased options for prostate HDR brachytherapy 3.Review the QA process and learn about the development of clinical workflows for these imaging options at different institutions
Radiohalogens for PET Imaging

Fluorine-18 is currently the most utilized PET radiohalogen as a result of its relatively facile production in large quantities, its convenient half-life, and its nearly optimal decay properties. Efficient incorporation of the 18F-radiolabel into a variety of radiopharmaceuticals is possible using either nucleophilic routes with high specific activity [18F]fluoride or electrophilic routes with lower specific activity [18F]fluorine. The longer half-lives of 76Br and 124I can provide advantages over 18F to image slower physiological processes, but the production of these radiohalogens is more demanding and their decay properties are more complex than those of 18F. Thus, 18F has become the radiohalogen of choice for a variety of PET imaging applications.
Working the Edges of the Nineteenth‐Century British Empire

In this essay, I pay attention to some of the edges, margins, and middle spaces of the nineteenth-century empire and suggest that the movements, people, and cultural practices of the edges of empire were crucially important for the construction of empire itself. I tell the stories of two imperial middlemen, people who worked from the edges of the nineteenth-century British imperial world, in Jamaica, New Zealand/Aotearoa, and Britain, who worked with the constraints in which their economic, racial, and national situations placed them and tried to generate cultural capital to offset their marginal status. Hosting musical soirees in Kingston, Jamaica and performing ethnographic masquerades in the provincial lecture halls and theatres of Britain, Louis Celeste Lecesne and Barnet Burns, the subjects of this article, put a human face to the abstract logic of speculative finance and demonstrate the importance of cultural practice to the institutions of empire.
Differential Dependence On Aerobic Glycolysis In Normal and Malignant Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells To Sustain Daughter Cell Production

How glucose is metabolized can influence cell function, but whether differences in glucose metabolism reflect, or dictate, cell state is not clear and is of particular interest given the association of cancer with aerobic glycolysis. Studies on cancer cell lines have indicated that increased glucose uptake with lactate production regardless of oxygen concentration, a phenomenon also known as the Warburg effect, is promoted in part by expression of the M2 isoform of pyruvate kinase (PKM2) and the muscle form of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA). Normal somatic cells thought to also preferentially use glycolytic metabolism are tissue stem cells, particularly the self-renewing hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) resident in the hypoxic microenvironment of the bone marrow. It remains to be defined, however whether proliferating hematopoietic progenitor cells rely on aerobic glycolysis and whether malignant and normal hematopoietic cells are dependent on the same metabolic regulation. We observed that PKM2 and LDHA are the predominant isoforms expressed by all BM hematopoietic cells. To further understand the role of glycolytic metabolism in hematopoiesis and hematological malignancy, we utilized a mouse strain that allows conditional deletion of the PKM2 specific exon 10. Deletion of PKM2 in hematopoetic cells leads to expression of PKM1, accompanied with partial inhibition of lactate production and decreased glycolytic intermediates in the hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell (HSPC) population. Loss of PKM2 compromises the long-term repopulation capacity of HSPCs as revealed by serial transplantation assay. Interestingly, the repopulating defects resulting from PKM2 depletion appear to involve progenitors, perhaps due to inadequate biomass generation necessary for robust cell proliferation. To confirm that the effect of PKM2 deletion on HSPC function is due to metabolic changes rather than other putative PKM2 functions, we engineered a mouse strain that allowed conditional knockout of LDHA to more potently impair aerobic glycolysis. LDHA deletion completely inhibited lactate production, enhanced ROS levels in hematopoietic cells and impaired long-term BM repopulating activity. In contrast to PKM2 deletion that affects progenitor but not stem cells, LDHA depletion impacts both stem cell maintenance and progenitor cell proliferation. Deletion of either PKM2 or LDHA markedly suppressed leukemia initiation by either putative stem cell (BCR-ABL) or progenitor (MLL-AF9) transforming alleles. Therefore, modulating aeroblic glycolysis has effects on normal hematopoietic cells that depend upon cell state and negatively impacts leukemic growth regardless of cell state. The differential sensitivity of normal and malignant cells to modulation of aerobic glycolysis suggests a potential therapeutic opportunity for leukemia intervention. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.