cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Linking Sequence to Function in Soil Bacteria: Sequence-Directed Isolation of Novel Bacteria Contributing to Soilborne Plant Disease Suppression

Microbial community profiling of samples differing in a specific ecological function, i.e., soilborne plant disease suppression, can be used to mark, recover, and ultimately identify the bacteria responsible for that specific function. Previously, several terminal restriction fragments (TRF) of 16S rRNA genes were statistically associated with damping-off disease suppression. This work presents the development of sequence-based TRF length polymorphism (T-RFLP)-derived molecular markers to direct the identification and isolation of novel bacteria involved in damping-off pathogen suppression. Multiple sequences matching TRF M139 and M141 were cloned and displayed identity to multiple database entries in the genera incertae sedis of the Burkholderiales. Sequences matching TRF M148, in contrast, displayed greater sequence diversity. A sequence-directed culturing strategy was developed using M139- and M141-derived markers and media reported to be selective for the genera identified within this group. Using this approach, we isolated and identified novel Mitsuaria and Burkholderia species with high levels of sequence similarity to the targeted M139 and M141 TRF, respectively. As predicted, these Mitsuaria and Burkholderia isolates displayed the targeted function by reducing fungal and oomycete plant pathogen growth in vitro and reducing disease severity in infected tomato and soybean seedlings. This work represents the first successful example of the use of T-RFLP-derived markers to direct the isolation of microbes with pathogen-suppressing activities, and it establishes the power of low-cost molecular screening to identify and direct the recovery of functionally important microbes, such as these novel biocontrol strains.
J–Q characterized stress fields of surface-cracked metallic liners – II. Composite overwrapped pressure vessels

Abstract Two-parameter J–Q elastic–plastic crack front fields are developed for surface-cracked metallic liners of composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPV). Uniaxial tensile data from 6061-T6 aluminum coupon specimens for the metallic liner and anisotropic elastic material properties for the filament wound carbon fiber epoxy are used in three-dimensional finite element models. Modified boundary layer (MBL) finite element solutions are used to evaluate near tip dominance and parameterization limits. Semicircular surface cracks of varying depths inserted in the inner liner surface are investigated. J and Q crack front distributions, and the corresponding parameterization limits, and near tip triaxiality trends are obtained and the effects of elastic–plastic material discontinuity of the heterogeneous joint and the biaxiality of stresses are evaluated. J–Q predicted fields maintain accuracy for higher far-field loads and lower near tip deformations compared to the liner only models for angles near the free surface. However, for the critical crack growth region, Q does not maintain a radially independent measure of constraint for loads seen in a typical COPV; therefore, these fracture predictors may not be applicable. In the COPV, large-scale yielding marks a transition where triaxiality is higher as a function of constraint compared to the linear relationship common to homogeneous structures. Results from this study will facilitate the implementation of proof test logic and accurate fracture prediction of COPV liners with emphasis on geometric limits and fracture specimen applicability.
Adult neurology training during child neurology residency

As it is currently configured, completion of child neurology residency requires performance of 12 months of training in adult neurology. Exploration of whether or not this duration of training in adult neurology is appropriate for what child neurology is today must take into account the initial reasons for this requirement and the goals of adult neurology training during child neurology residency.
Domestic Violence, Gun Ownership, and Parental Educational Attainment: How do They Affect the Aggressive Beliefs and Behaviors of Children?

This article explores the relationship between and effects of domestic violence, rates of gun ownership, and parental educational attainment on the aggressive beliefs and behaviors of elementary and middle school children in the state of South Carolina. The results of the current study’s statistical analyses are interpreted using a multi-theoretical framework. Recommendations to decrease rates of domestic violence and firearm accessibility, as well as methods to increase educational attainment in this state’s unique environment and the nation as a whole, are presented.
Reliability of the WMS-III discrepancy comparisons.

Internal consistency reliabilities for the WMS–III Primary Indexes, Primary Index subtest, and Ability–Memory discrepancy scores are provided. The reliabilities ranged from .00 to .89.
Aminoglycoside Resistance with Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Populations of Antibiotic-Resistant Ribosomes

Aminoglycosides bind to rRNA in the small subunit of the bacterial ribosome. Mutations in the decoding region of 16S rRNA confer resistance to specific subsets of aminoglycoside antibiotics. The two major classes of 2-deoxystreptamine aminoglycosides are the 4,5- and the 4,6-disubstituted antibiotics. Antibiotics of the 4,5-disubstituted class include neomycin, paromomycin, and ribostamycin. Gentamicins and kanamycins belong to the 4,6-disubstituted class of aminoglycosides. Structural studies indicated the potential importance of position 1406 (Escherichia coli numbering) in the binding of ring III of the 4,6-disubstituted class of aminoglycosides to 16S rRNA. We have introduced a U1406-to-A mutation in a plasmid-encoded copy of E. coli 16S rRNA which has been expressed either in a mixture with wild-type ribosomes or in a strain in which all rRNA is transcribed from the plasmid-encoded rrn operon. High-level resistance to many of the 4,6-disubstituted aminoglycosides is observed only when all the rRNA contains the U1406-to-A mutation. In contrast to the partial dominance of resistance observed with other mutations in the decoding region, there is a dominance of sensitivity with the 1406A mutation. Chemical footprinting experiments indicate that resistance arises from a reduced affinity of the antibiotic for the rRNA target. These results demonstrate that although position 1406 is an important determinant in the binding and action of the 4,6-disubstituted aminoglycosides, other rRNA mutations that perturb the binding of ring I of both classes of 2-deoxystreptamine aminoglycosides confer higher levels of resistance as well as a partial dominance of resistance.
Inverse filtering of room impulse response for binaural recording playback through loudspeakers

We propose a system to achieve playback of binaural dummy head recordings through loudspeakers by ensuring crosstalk cancellation and equalization for loudspeaker and listener head related transfer functions in anechoic conditions. This system can run at a sampling frequency of 32 kHz using available DSP chips. >
A new class of multiple description scalar quantizer and its application to image coding

We introduce a new class of multiple description scalar quantizer (MDSQ), which will be referred to as the modified MDSQ (MMDSQ). The structure of MMDSQ is fundamentally different from the MDSQ proposed by Vaishampayan. Analysis shows that at high rates for sources with smooth pdfs, MMDSQ achieves the same performance as entropy-constrained MDSQ using a uniform central quantizer. Compared with MDSQ, MMDSQ features a more efficient central-side distortion tradeoff control mechanism, without requiring the design and implementation of a complicated index assignment scheme. The simple and efficient implementation of MMDSQ makes it suitable for image coding: It can be naturally incorporated into existing coders to form new multiple description coders. Such a system is constructed using an existing image coder, and the performance of the resulting system is compared to that of the same coder but using Vaishampayan's MDSQ. Simulation results on natural images reveal that the system based on MMDSQ outperforms that based on MDSQ.
Undergraduate Education and Professional Achievement of MSWs

(AASSW) ruled that, after 1939, a two-year graduate program leading to a master's degree (MSW) would be re quired of schools applying for accred itation.2 This was the primary crite rion for professional entry in social work until 1975, when the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the successor of the AASSW, recognized and began accreditation of bachelor level programs in social work (BSW). Earlier, in 1971, the National Asso ciation of Social Workers (NASW) opened full membership to graduates of BSW programs. Over the last decade, the number of accredited BSW programs in the United States has more than doubled; there were 151 accredited programs in 1975 and 303 by 1981.3 The num ber of graduate programs remained at approximately 87 during that pe riod. Along with the growth of BSW programs, there has been an increase in the number of MSW programs that are "combined" or "joint," that is, programs offering both the BSW and MSW degrees through a five year course of study (approximately half of MSW programs).4 There has also been an increase in the num
Emerging neuropeptide targets in inflammation: NPY and VIP.

The enteric nervous system (ENS), referred to as the “second brain,” comprises a vast number of neurons that form an elegant network throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Neuropeptides produced by the ENS play a crucial role in the regulation of inflammatory processes via cross talk with the enteric immune system. In addition, neuropeptides have paracrine effects on epithelial secretion, thus regulating epithelial barrier functions and thereby susceptibility to inflammation. Ultimately the inflammatory response damages the enteric neurons themselves, resulting in deregulations in circuitry and gut motility. In this review, we have emphasized the concept of neurogenic inflammation and the interaction between the enteric immune system and enteric nervous system, focusing on neuropeptide Y (NPY) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). The alterations in the expression of NPY and VIP in inflammation and their significant roles in immunomodulation are discussed. We highlight the mechanism of action of these neuropeptides on immune cells, focusing on the key receptors as well as the intracellular signaling pathways that are activated to regulate the release of cytokines. In addition, we also examine the direct and indirect mechanisms of neuropeptide regulation of epithelial tight junctions and permeability, which are a crucial determinant of susceptibility to inflammation. Finally, we also discuss the potential of emerging neuropeptide-based therapies that utilize peptide agonists, antagonists, siRNA, oligonucleotides, and lentiviral vectors.
Multi-scale modelling of pulsed nanosecond dielectric barrier plasma discharges in plane-to-plane geometry

An integrated theoretical and numerical framework is developed to study the dynamics of energy coupling, gas heating and generation of active species by repetitively pulsed nanosecond dielectric barrier discharges (NS DBDs) in air. The work represents one of the first attempts to simulate, in a self-consistent manner, multiple (more than 100) nanosecond pulses. Detailed information is obtained about the electric-field transients during each voltage pulse, and accumulation of plasma generated species and gas heating over ms timescales. The plasma is modelled using a two-temperature, detailed chemistry scheme, with ions and neutral species in thermal equilibrium at the gas temperature, and electrons in thermal nonequilibrium. The analysis is conducted with pressures and pulsing frequency in the range 40‐100Torr and 1‐10 5 Hz, respectively. The input electrical energy is directly proportional to the number density, and remains fairly constant on a per molecule basis from pulse to pulse. Repetitive pulsing results in uniform production of atomic oxygen in the discharge volume via electron-impact dissociation during voltage pulses, and through quenching of excited nitrogen molecules in the afterglow. The ion Joule effect causes rapid gas heating of ∼40K/pulse in the cathode sheath and generates weak acoustic waves. Conductive heat loss to the walls during the time interval between voltage pulses prevents overheating of the cathode layer and development of ionization instabilities. A uniform ‘hat-shaped’ temperature profile develops in the discharge volume after multiple pulses, due to chemical heat release from quenching of excited species. This finding may explain experimentally observed volumetric ignition (as opposed to hot-spot ignition) in fuel‐air mixtures subject to NS DBD. (Some figures may appear in colour only in the online journal)
Critical Experiments in Thermo-Mechanical Loading

Many different microstructural mechanisms can be operative in materials that may influence the material response and the lifetime of the material. Identifying temperature and strain-rate sensitive regimes through critical experiments would provide better understanding of material behavior.
Magnetic and structural design of a 15 T Nb3Sn accelerator dipole model

Hadron Colliders (HC) are the most powerful discovery tools in modern high energy physics. A 100 TeV scale HC with a nominal operation field of at least 15 T is being considered for the post-LHC era. The choice of a 15 T nominal field requires using the Nb3Sn technology. Practical demonstration of this field level in an accelerator-quality magnet and substantial reduction of the magnet costs are the key conditions for realization of such a machine. FNAL has started the development of a 15 T $$Nb_{3}Sn$$ dipole demonstrator for a 100 TeV scale HC. The magnet design is based on 4-layer shell type coils, graded between the inner and outer layers to maximize the performance. The experience gained during the 11-T dipole R&D campaign is applied to different aspects of the magnet design. This paper describes the magnetic and structural designs and parameters of the 15 T $Nb_3Sn$ dipole and the steps towards the demonstration model.
Utility-based evaluation metrics for models of language acquisition: A look at speech segmentation

Models of language acquisition are typically evaluated against a “gold standard” meant to represent adult linguistic knowledge, such as orthographic words for the task of speech segmentation. Yet adult knowledge is rarely the target knowledge for the stage of acquisition being modeled, making the gold standard an imperfect evaluation metric. To supplement the gold standard evaluation metric, we propose an alternative utility-based metric that measures whether the acquired knowledge facilitates future learning. We take the task of speech segmentation as a case study, assessing previously proposed models of segmentation on their ability to generate output that (i) enables creation of language-specific segmentation cues that rely on stress patterns, and (ii) assists the subsequent acquisition task of learning word meanings. We find that behavior that maximizes gold standard performance does not necessarily maximize the utility of the acquired knowledge, highlighting the benefit of multiple evaluation metrics.
Treatment of Ventricular Arrhythmias: Surgery

During the past five years, the surgical approach to the treatment of ventricular arrhythmias associated with coronary heart disease has undergone a dramatic change in terms of patient selection, surgical indications, and the specific surgical techniques employed to alleviate these lifethreatening arrhythmias. Because of the dismal results obtained using indirect surgical techniques for the treatment of refractory ischemic ventricular tachycardia prior to 1978, three new direct endocardial surgical procedures guided by intraoperative electrophysiologic mapping were introduced. The encircling endocardial ventriculotomy (EEV) of Guiraudon, the endocardial resection procedure (ERP) of Harken and its modification of “extended” ERP by Moran, and endocardial cryoablation introduced by our group at Duke University have all proven to be superior to the previous indirect surgical procedures. The operative mortality rate has been decreased from 27% to approximately 10% and the overall success rate has been increased from 50% to 90% with the introduction of the direct surgical procedures. Although each of these direct endocardial techniques is effective, the selection of the appropriate procedure for a given patient depends upon the electro physiologic characteristics of the ventricular arrhyhtmia and on its anatomic “site of origin” in the left ventricle. As these procedures have been shown to be safer and more effective than the previous indirect operations, the indications for surgical therapy of refractory ischemic ventricular tachycardia have been expanded.
Emergent Target Language Identities Among Latino English Language Learners

ABSTRACTDuring 2nd language acquisition, a learner’s identity is consigned, juxtaposed, coconstructed, and reified through various affective positions and mitigating linguistic behaviors. Our study of adult Latino ESL students in Dallas, Texas, shows how language socialization experiences are shaped by the learners’ affective stances toward the project of learning and using the English language. Students reflected on how their specific social barriers created conditions that impeded interaction with interlocutors who could potentially aid their socialization process in English.
Radionuclide Decay Effects on Waste Glass Corrosion

The release of glass components into solution, including radionuclides, may be influenced by thepresence of radiolyticallyproduced nitric acid, carboxylic acid, and transient water dissociationproducts such as †OH and O2. Under batch test conditions, glass corrosion has been shown to increase up to a maximum of three-to five-fold in irradiated tests relative to nonirradiated tests, while in other studies thepresence of radiolyticproducts has actually decreased glass corrosion rates. Bicarbonate groundwaters will buffer againstpH decreases and changes in corrosion rates. Under high surface area-to-solution volume (S/V) conditions, the bicarbonate buffering reservoir may be quickly overwhelmed by radiolytic acids that are concentrated in the thin films of water contacting the samples. Glass reaction rates have been shown to increase up to 10-to-15-fold due to radiation exposure under high SA/ conditions. Radiation damage to solid glass materials results in bond damage and atomic displacements. This type of damage has been shown to increase the release rates of glass components up to four-fold during subsequent corrosion tests, although under actual disposal conditions, glass annealingprocesses may negate the solid radiation damage effects.
Biceps tenodesis versus allograft reconstruction for varus instability.

Although effective to restore stability in varus laxity, a fibula-based procedure such as figure-of-8 reconstruction can be technically demanding and requires use of allograft or autograft. Biceps rerouting offers an alternative without the potential complications of allograft or autograft procedures. It is not known whether biceps tenodesis is effective in addressing isolated varus laxity with lateral collateral ligament (LCL) rupture. We compared biceps tenodesis and figure-of-8 allograft reconstruction for restoration of varus stability. Nine knees were loaded at 10 N-m at 0- and 30-degree knee flexion in intact, LCL sectioned, and reconstructed state. Both biceps tenodesis and figure-of-8 reconstruction restored varus stability to at least baseline stability. Normalized displacement with biceps tenodesis measured at time zero was significantly lower than with allograft reconstruction at 0 degrees (0.75 ± 0.26 vs. 1.09 ± 0.31 degrees; p = 0.04) and 30 degrees (0.66 ± 0.14 vs. 0.91 ± 0.27 degrees; p = 0.04). Biceps tenodesis was effective at restoring baseline varus stability in isolated varus laxity.
Curing and Alignment of Liquid Crystalline Epoxy Networks

Liquid crystalline epoxy networks have been prepared from glycidyl terminated polyether oligomers of varying molecular weight. These oligomers were prepared by functionalizing hydroxy terminated oligomers based on 4,4'- dihydroxy-α-methylstilbene and α,ω-dibromoalkanes with glycidyl groups. Curing of these oligomers was carried out either within their nematic mesophase or in their isotropic state. Different thermal properties were observed after curing under these two sets of conditions. Extremely low values of the coefficient of thermal expansion in the range of 15 to 60 ppm/°C were achieved. To produce aligned thermosets, orientation of the liquid crystalline phase was induced during the curing process by a magnetic field. Orientation of these networks was measured by wide angle x-ray diffraction (WAXD).
Neurophysiological Studies on Echolocation Systems in Awake Bats Producing CF-FM Orientation Sounds

1. The bats Pteronotus parnellii, P. suapurensis and Noctilio leporinus emit orientation sounds first containing a constant-frequency (CF) and then a frequency-modulated (FM) component. 2. P. parnellii produced a long CF with a second harmonic at 62 kHz to which its auditory system was sharply tuned. In the other two species, the CF was shorter and there was no sharp tuning. 3. Electrical stimulation of the midbrain reticular formation and/or the central grey matter elicited vocalizations which were indistinguishable from those used for echolocation. 4. The electrically-elicited vocalization was enhanced by acoustic stimuli. In P. parnellii , this vocal response was sharply tuned at 62-63 kHz and also to downward sweeping FM sounds. In P. suapurensis and N. leporinus , the vocal responses were prominent only to downward sweeping FM sounds. This indicates that the FM is important to echolocation in all these bats and that the CF component is more essential to echolocation in P. parnellii than to that in P. suapurensis and N. leporinus . 5. The responses of primary auditory neurons to the onset and cessation of pure tone stimuli were due to mechanical events, not due to a rebound from neural inhibition. 6. Masking experiments with P. parnellii indicate that the neural response at the cessation of a CF-FM sound similar to its orientation sound mainly consisted of the response to the FM component and not the off-response to the CF component. 7. During vocalization, self-stimulation was reduced by contraction of middle-ear muscles. This was not due to the acoustic reflex which started to occur with a 6 msec latency.
A Defense of Nonideal Theories of Justice / Uma Defesa de Teorias de Justiça Não Ideais

Abstract: The overwhelming majority of contemporary theories of justice is grounded in the rationalist tradition (Frazer, 2010). As a consequence, political philosophers such as John Rawls (1971) have interpreted moral systems as axiomatic, substantially based on concepts of inalienable rights and duties—usually guided by the core value attached to human dignity. Once ethicists started working under an axiomatic framework, empirical evidence has become less and less useful. This road has been conducive to the current prevalence of ideal theories in the field. On a dissonant note, recent debate in political philosophy has rekindled our attention to the development of nonideal theories of justice. Yet before one argues in favor of nonideal (or comparative) theories of justice, one has to be certain that all arguments against the broader incorporation of empirical evidence in the development of political philosophical theories are not valid. Therefore the focus of the present paper is the assessment—and dismissal—of these arguments. Keywords: Theories of Justice; Nonideal Theories; Empirical Evidence; Methodology Resumo: A grande maioria das teorias de justica contemporâneas se baseiam na tradicao racionalista (Frazer, 2010). Como consequencia, filosofos politicos como John Rawls (1971) tem interpretado sistemas morais como axiomaticos, baseados substancialmente em conceitos de direitos e deveres inalienaveis – geralmente guiados pelo valor central concedido a dignidade humana. Uma vez que os eticistas comecaram a utilizar uma moldura axiomatica, as evidencias empiricas se tornaram cada vez menos uteis. Esse caminho foi relevante para a atual prevalencia de teorias ideais nesse campo. De maneira dissonante, o debate recente na filosofia politica reacendeu a atencao para o desenvolvimento de teorias de justica nao ideais. Contudo, antes que alguem argumente em favor de teorias de justica nao ideais (ou comparativas), e preciso estar certo de que todos os argumentos contrarios a uma incorporacao mais ampla de evidencias empiricas no desenvolvimento de teorias politicas filosoficas nao sao validos. Portanto, o foco deste artigo e a avaliacao – e rejeicao – destes argumentos. Palavras-chave: Teorias de justica; Teorias nao ideais; Evidencia empirica; Metodologia.
The A and I band lengths in stretched or contracted horseshoe crab skeletal muscle

Both the A band and the I-Z band of horsehoe crab, Limulus polyphemus, striated muscle decrease in lengthas the sarcomere is decreased in length from the stretched condition (sarcomere length of 12.0 μ), to rest length (sarcomere length of 7.5 μ). From rest length to a sarcomere length of 4.5 μ the A band length decreased from about 5.5 μ to 2.5 μ and the I-Z band decreased slightly from 2.6 μ to 1.9 μ. These changes were determined by direct measurement of different glycerinated fibers which had been stretched or allowed to contract prior to glycerol treatment.
CENTRAL SERVICE: Management is key link in chain of elements of good supervision

(1969). CENTRAL SERVICE: Management is key link in chain of elements of good supervision. Hospital Topics: Vol. 47, No. 5, pp. 113-124.
Calciotropic hormones in salt-sensitive essential hypertension: 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and parathyroid hypertensive factor.

Hypothesis Some, but not all, men and women display a pressor response to increases in dietary salt intake. The mechanism(s) underlying this salt-sensitive hypertension remains poorly defined. We have developed a hypothesis that all hypertension arises from an imbalance between mechanisms of cytosolic calcium accumulation from the extracellular space versus calcium release into the cytoplasm from intracellular storage sites. Extracellular calcium-dependent hypertension predominates in salt-sensitive subjects, while excess angiotensin II mediates the excess intracellular calcium release that is characteristic of renin-dependent salt-insensitive forms of hypertension. Studies on pressor hormones: We investigated potential etiologic factors mediating the cellular calcium accumulation in salt-sensitive hypertensive human subjects, and focused on two calcium-related circulating hormonal substances, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and the recently described parathyroid hypertensive factor. Both of these substances directly facilitate calcium transport from the extracellular space in the cell. Furthermore, levels of these hormones are greatest in black normotensive and low-renin essential hypertensive subjects, both groups associated with salt-related hypertensive disease. Lastly, dietary salt loading elevates 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and parathyroid hypertensive factor levels, and the greater the level of either hormone, the greater the pressor response to salt. Conclusions It is reasonable to consider that these salt-induced cellular ionophoric actions of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and parathyroid hypertensive factor contribute, at least in part, to the mechanism of salt-sensitive hypertension in man.
Success rate of modified Pereyra bladder neck suspension determined by outcomes analysis.

AbstractThe reported success rates of the modified Pereyra bladder neck suspension vary from 51 to 90%. Retrospective chart review studies have reported cure rates of 77 to 90%. In contrast, a questionnaire based outcomes analysis, using a strict definition of cure, reported 51% of the patients to be cured of stress urinary incontinence after modified Pereyra bladder neck suspension. We conducted a questionnaire based outcomes analysis of the modified Pereyra bladder neck suspension at our institution. The objectives of the study were to determine the success rates of this procedure using strict criteria in an outcomes analysis format, assess the overall satisfaction of patients postoperatively and identify historical factors that may be predictive of outcome.Between September 1988 and December 1991, 151 patients underwent a modified Pereyra bladder neck suspension for urodynamically documented genuine stress urinary incontinence. Mean patient age was 56 years (range 19 to 82 years) and mean followup was ...
How Voting Criteria and Vote Decision Quality Differ when Informational Context Differs

For decades, the role of campaigns in both individual vote choice and electoral outcomes has been deemed minimal, if existent at all. Central to this belief are well-established forecasting models that successfully predict election outcomes using only a few “fundamental” variables that are assessed months prior to the start of a campaign. Recently, there has been a renewed effort among political communication scholars to explore the role of the information environments upon which elections occur. But less research has focused on how differences in the information environments between elections differentially influence how people ultimately come to a vote choice. This paper is a beginning effort in a larger project to add to this growing body of research by focusing on how the vote criteria people use varies when the informational context in which an election occurs varies, in this case, between low- and high-information elections. I specifically focus on the Senate and House races from the 2010 midterm elections in Pennsylvania.
Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating the Efficacy of Peritoneal Resuscitation in the Management of Trauma Patients Undergoing Damage Control Surgery

Background Peritoneal resuscitation (PR) represents a unique modality of treatment for severely injured trauma patients requiring damage control surgery. These data represent the outcomes of a single institution randomized controlled trial into the efficacy of PR as a management option in these patients. Study Design From 2011 to 2015, one hundred and three patients were enrolled in a prospective randomized controlled trial evaluating the use of PR in the treatment of patients undergoing damage control surgery compared with conventional resuscitation (CR) alone. Patient demographics, clinical variables, and outcomes were collected. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed with a priori significance at p ≤ 0.05. Results After initial screening, 52 patients were randomized to the PR group and 51 to the CR group. Age, sex, initial pH, and mechanism of injury were used for randomization. Method of abdominal closure was standardized across groups. Time to definitive abdominal closure was reduced in the PR group compared with the CR group (4.1 ± 2.2 days vs 5.9 ± 3.5 days; p ≤ 0.002). Volume of resuscitation and blood products transfused in the initial 24 hours was not different between the groups. Primary fascial closure rate was higher in the PR group (83% vs 66%; p ≤ 0.05). Intra-abdominal complications were lower in the PR compared with the CR group (8% vs 18%), with abscess formation rate (3% vs 14%; p Conclusions Peritoneal resuscitation enhances management of damage control surgery patients by reducing time to definitive abdominal closure, intra-abdominal infections, and mortality rates.
Mass-audience interactive narrative ethical reasoning instruction

In this paper I introduce, elaborate, and defend a new form of ethical reasoning instruction. The pedagogy, which I have titled mass-audience interactive narrative (or MAIN) ethical reasoning instruction, is an initiative designed to teach ethical reasoning effectively on a broad scale over an extended period of time. The hope is that such a program, if duly supported, will help to ensure the widest possible engagement, and high levels of retention, in an institution-level program of ethical reasoning.
Frakking Flyting: Chasing the Neophemism

A survey of “bad language” study reveals that power lies not in bad words themselves, but in their meaning, or the ideas with which they are associated. Put simply, words are not taboo; ideas are. Fuck is not taboo per se; its vulgar sexual connotation is. The fluid capacity of words to associate or dissociate with ideas is made manifest in contemporary media with the proliferation of “the near swear,” or “fake swear.” Our pantheon of terminology for the linguistic expression of taboo ideas presently includes dysphemisms, which are offensive renditions (fucking); euphemisms, which are inoffensive, often metaphorical renditions (making love); and orthophemisms, which are sober renditions (having sexual intercourse). This paper posits a fourth category: the neophemism. A neophemism is a new word associated with taboo expression, usually for the purpose of evading censorship or reinforcing constructs in fiction. Frakking is a neophemism for fucking. Neophemisms are experiencing a profound proliferation at present because of the explosive growth of electronic media. But the neophemism is not a new device. Fuck has neophemisms in many variations, form from firk (arguably) in Shakespeare to fug in Norman Mailer to frak in Glen A. Larson’s Battlestar Galactica. Other variants form from truncation, heterographs, homophones, metathesis, rhyming slang, and other word play. Neophemisms can be tools to effect social change because they offer an alternative manner of expression about taboo ideas. Accordingly, neophemisms present a curious problem for the regulator, who would resist social change. If a neophemism affords a speaker access to taboo subject matter, then the regulator has incentive to censor. Censorship of neophemisms points down a dangerous road, because free expression ultimately is jeopardized by unbridled regulatory discretion. In the end, neophemisms demonstrate the inevitability of social change and the futility of enforcing social taboo by speech regulation.
American Constitutionalism and Dualist Democracy: A Brief Reply and Critique of Ackerman's ‘We the People’

This paper is a critique of Bruce Ackerman's model of democracy. This work focuses on the first part of Ackerman's tripartite model ― namely, popular sovereignty. It will be argued that Ackerman makes a serious mistake in grounding his dualist democracy on popular sovereignty. This critique attempts to make a unique contribution to the American constitutionalism and democracy literature by questioning the adequacy of its democratic foundationalism. It argues that the democracy platform is not adequate to guard against an imperial presidency or judiciary from taking people's rights away under the belief that those rights are no longer supported by a majority of the population. And further it argues that Ackerman is mistaken in casting the Supreme Court as the savior of popular democracy by codifying all tectonic political shifts made by the people's representatives. In short this work attempts to critique modern democracy as an adequate model to keep the people safe from external and internal imperial forces and impositions by the strong over the weak.
On the brink of extinction: the future of translational physician-scientists in the United States

Over the past decade, we have seen an unparalleled growth in our knowledge of cancer biology and the translation of this biology into a new generation of therapeutic tools that are changing cancer treatment outcomes. With the continued explosion of new biologic discoveries, we find ourselves with a limited number of trained and engaged translational physician-scientists capable of bridging the chasm between basic science and clinical science. Here, we discuss the current state translational physician-scientists find themselves in and offer solutions to navigate during this difficult time.
Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures

In this review, we elucidate the evaluation process involved in the diagnosis of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES). Minimum clinical criteria required to attain this diagnosis via a staged approach are delineated. The psychological underpinnings and management of PNES from the neurologists’ perspective are also explored. Helpful clues can be deduced from history-taking, seizure semiology, ictal/peri-ictal physical exam, and ictal/inter-ictal EEG data. No single clinical data point is definitively diagnostic of PNES. Instead, the level of certainty for PNES diagnosis is contingent upon concordance of the composite clinical evidence available. Robust neurologist-patient alliance not only facilitates the evaluation process but can influence therapeutic impact. While diagnosis of PNES can be challenging, this diagnosis can be reliably made upon establishing concordance of the historical, physical exam, and video-EEG findings. Evidence-based treatments are available for patients with PNES. Continued efforts remain necessary to enhance timely diagnosis and interdisciplinary management for patients with PNES.
Designing systems for the co-production of public knowledge: considerations for national statistical systems

AbstractThe functions of government are increasingly complex and information-driven. However, for many developing countries, the quality of information is poor and the consequences of that poor inf...
Anatomic Variations of the Infraorbital Foramen in Caucasian Versus African American Skulls.

PURPOSE The infraorbital foramen (IOF) represents a highly conserved structure but demonstrates morphologic variability. The purpose of this study is to describe the IOF location, size, and supernumerary foramina in an African American population and compare it with a Caucasian population. METHODS Sixty African American and 60 Caucasian skulls from the Hamann-Todd collection of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History were studied. The primary outcome was the number of accessory IOF and measurements of the location, size, shape, and direction of each foramen. Pearson chi-square, t tests, Fisher exact test, and Wilcoxon rank sum tests were used to analyze the data. RESULTS The African American population had a smaller vertical IOF diameter (mean = 2.81 mm) compared with the Caucasian population (mean = 3.08 mm) on the right side (p < 0.01). The distance from the IOF to the anterior nasal spine on the left side was greater in the African American population (mean = 33.93 mm) compared with the Caucasian population (Caucasian mean = 32.84 mm, p = 0.03). The distance from the IOF to the zygomaticomaxillary suture was significantly shorter in the African American population (mean = 11.85 mm) compared with the Caucasian population (mean = 13.21 mm) on the left side (p = 0.01). Accessory foramina were found in 13 Caucasian skulls (21.7%) and 6 African American skulls (10%; p = 0.08). Two distinct types of IOF existed in each population, one close to the main foramen and one within the sutura notha. CONCLUSIONS The IOF is smaller and exits more laterally, with a lower proportion of accessory foramina in an African American population compared with a Caucasian population. Both groups exhibit 2 distinct types of IOF. These morphologic differences should be noted during surgeries and anesthetic planning to avoid neurovascular complications.
Chapter 8 - Intuitive Nonsymbolic Arithmetic

Abstract In this chapter, the ability of organisms to use an intuitive, approximate, and abstract sense of number to represent and operate over numerical magnitudes is discussed. The literature on adding, subtracting, and ordering nonsymbolic magnitudes generated by this approximate number system is reviewed, along with evidence that the system may also support an intuitive sensitivity to the results of multiplication and division in infants, children, adults, and nonhuman animals. A proposal for a core scaling ability 0—in which approximate number representations are used to flexibly scale up or down magnitudes in a multiplicative or divisive fashion—is advanced and substantiated with findings from infants and kindergarten-aged children.
Cytogenetic studies on patients with chronic T cell leukemia/lymphoma

Cytogenetic studies were performed on three patients with chronic T cell leukemia and on one patient with T cell lymphoma. One of the patients had leukemic cells derived from a suppressor T cell clone, another expressed OKT3, 4, and 8, and cells of the other two were derived from a helper T cell clone. All patients had an abnormal karyotype in peripheral blood or bone marrow cultured with or without mitogen. Modal chromosome numbers were 42 and 44/45 in one patient each and 47 in the 2 others. The structural and numerical abnormalities involved almost all chromosomes, except no. 19 and the X chromosome. All patients had a rearrangement of the long arm of no. 14, with a break at band 14q11;3 patients also had a break at 14q32. An inversion of 14q occurred in two patients; a tandem translocation involving both no. 14 chromosomes and a translocation between no. 14 and no. 17 each occurred in one patient. The break in 14q at band q11 in our cases resembles the chromosome change reported in ataxia telangiectasia. This provides added support for the proposal that a 14q rearrangement involving band q11–12, with or without an accompanying break in 14q32, may confer a proliferative advantage on lymphocytes, especially on those of T cell origin.
Composition and Enzymatic Properties of the Mitochondrial NADH- and NADPH-Ubiquinone Reductase (Complex I)

Complex I is one of the five component enzyme complexes of the mitochondrial electron transport-oxidative phosphorylation system (Fig. 1) (1–3). The enzymatic reactions catalyzed by complex I are summarized in Table I and the composition of the preparation in terms of flavin, nonheme iron (Fe), acid-labile sulfide (S*), ubi quinone, and phospholipids is given in Table II. The resolution of complex I by chaotropic agents (4–6) results in solubilization of ~ 20% protein containing flavin and approximately 50% of the Fe and S* content of complex I. The remainder of Fe and S* plus lipids are associated with the water-insoluble fraction (Fig. 2). Upon fractionation with ammonium sulfate, the soluble fraction yields an iron-sulfur protein with epr characteristics of FeS* center 2 of complex I (see below), plus a flavoprotein containing approximately 4 g atoms of Fe and 4 moles of S* per mole of FMN. The latter catalyzes the oxidation of NADH by various quinones and ferric compounds, including cytochrome c (Table III).
Introduction and Statement of Purpose

The limitation of natural monopoly revenues through cost based rate of return (or, as used here, “profit level”) regulation is widely viewed as a source of productive and allocative inefficiency. Assuming for the moment a sound basis for such views, the need remains for some manner of public intervention to constrain the potential abuse of private economic power in natural monopoly markets. Among the alternatives under consideration is price level regulation. Its essence lies in the unlinking of the firm’s allowed revenues from its actual internal costs.
Role of Phospholipids on Nuclear Structure and Function

Evidence has accumulated in recent years on the presence of phospholipids in nuclear substructures, after extensive purification procedures involving detergents (for a review, see Manzoli et al., 1985). Since active chromatin has been reported to contain larger amounts of phospholipids than its repressed form (Rose and Frenster, 1965), these molecules have been thought to play a role in regulating RNA synthesis. Hepatoma nuclei contain increased amounts of phospholipids compared to normal hepatocytes and a considerable increase of sphingomyelin appears to be associated with chromatin fractions (Coetzee et al., 1975). Significant variations of the chromatin-associated phospholipids have been revealed in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia cells, compared to normal B lymphocytes (Manzoli et al., 1977), as well as in rapidly proliferating embryonic tissues compared to resting ones (Manzoli et al., 1982). Chromatin-associated phospholipids found in Ehrlich ascites tumor cells have a fatty acid composition different from that of the corresponding nuclear membrane phospholipids, and are more resistant to diet-induced modifications (Awad and Spector, 1976). In some tumor cells it has been shown that nuclei and chromatin contain lipids with a neutral lipid/phospholipid ratio higher than that in normal cells (Balint and Holczinger, 1978). Among the nuclear matrix components, resistant to both detergent and saline extraction, is a small amount of phospholipids (Berezney and Coffey, 1974).
A Framework for the Visualization of Finite-Time Continuum Mechanics Effects in Time-Varying Flow

Integration-based flow visualization provides important visual cues about fluid transport. Analyzing the behavior of infinitesimal volumes as opposed to the behavior of rigid particles provides additional details valuable to flow visualization research. Our work concentrates on examining the local velocity gradient tensor along the path of a particle seeded within time-varying flow to produce a visualization highlighting temporal characteristics of particle behaviors, such as deformation. We present a framework for the analysis and visualization of such characteristics, focused on providing concise representations of physically meaningful flow features such as separation regions and vorticity. We apply the derived techniques to two data sets, highlighting the importance of such higher order Lagrangian analysis techniques to time-varying flow analysis.
Effects of thermal and exozodiacal background on space telescope observations of exoEarths

One of the major goals of the exoplanet community in the coming decades is to detect Earth-like exoplanets (exoEarths) and look for biomarkers in their atmospheres. High-dispersion coronagraphy (HDC) may allow detection and characterization to be done simultaneously, as well as relax the starlight suppression requirements of the telescope and coronagraph. However, similar to other direct imaging techniques, HDC faces challenging thermal and/or exozodiacal background levels. In this paper, we present simulations of coronagraphic observations using a variety of space telescope apertures ranging in diameter from 1 to 15 m, specifically incorporating thermal and exozodiacal background. We investigate the effects of instrument temperature and aperture on the maximum usable wavelength, as well as the effects of exozodiacal disk inclination and thickness on observational SNR. We then identify the spectral resolutions which maximize observational SNR subject to detector noise and the required starlight suppression levels for the detection of various potential biomarker molecules (H2O, O2, CO2, and CH4).
Hacking the 'Cellular Immunology Agency': T cells caught in the act.

The identification of T cells recognizing antigen has historically depended on live-cell imaging. Through the use of neural network–based image analysis, T cell–priming events can now be identified in fixed archival tissues.
An Advanced AGVS Control System: An Example of Integrated Design and Control

The Automated Guided Vehicle System (AGVS) has attracted increased attention over the past decade from both the material handling user community and from academics, primarily due to its flexibility. From an academic perspective, the key challenges addressed have been 1) measuring or understanding AGVS performance and 2) extending its flexibility. Georgia Tech Material Handling Research Center programs, in this regard, have included: • Development of an integrated path layout, fleet sizing and evaluation, and simulation tool, known as the AGVS Engineering Design Workstation, or AGVS EWS [1,2]. This tool is intended to be used by industrial engineers planning AGVS applications. • Development of new guidance technologies incorporated in a software-guided vehicle which does not follow either a wire or stripe on the floor [3]. The vehicle still follows a prescribed path, but this is specified in software rather than by a continuous marker on the floor.