cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Safety and outcomes of outpatient pediatric otolaryngology procedures at an ambulatory surgery center.

Objectives: To determine the safety and outcomes of outpatient pediatric otolaryngology procedures performed at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC). Methods: Retrospective review of all pediatric otolaryngology cases performed at a freestanding, outpatient ASC of a tertiary care, academic children's medical center from 2000 to 2007. Results: Of all cases, 4979 (55%) were otolaryngology procedures. Twelve surgeons and 10 pediatric anesthesiologists staffed the cases; no residents/fellows were involved. The case breakdown is as follows: 2045 (41.1%) myringotomy and tympanostomy tube; 1438 (28.9%) adenoidectomy (with tympanostomy tube placement and/or turbinectomy); 880 (17.7%) tonsillectomy (with or without adenoidectomy). According to American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) classification: 84.2% were ASA I, 15.1% ASA II, 0.7% ASA III. There were nine unanticipated outcomes: four postadenotonsillectomy and one postadenoidectomy bleeds (three requiring reoperation the same day), two patients with low psuedocholinesterase levels, one postadenotonsillectomy patient requiring overnight monitoring, and one patient with an incidental finding of a subglottic mass. Preoperative ASA status on these nine patients was 7 (78%) ASA I, 2 (22%) ASA II. Conclusions: Pediatric otolaryngology procedures constitute significant volume at our ASC. Surgery at our ASC is extremely safe with a rate of unanticipated outcomes of 0.2%—a comparison not available in the literature. Pediatric otolaryngology procedures performed with a highly skilled team at an outpatient ASC result in high quality and safe surgery.
Illuminance threshold for maintenance of testes in Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) is higher in continuous light than in long photoperiods.

The illuminance threshold for maintenance of testicular function was found to be considerably higher in Syrian hamsters kept in continuous light (LL) than in hamsters on long-day (14-hr) photoperiods (LD 14:10), or in a similar-length skeleton photoperiod (LDSK); the threshold lay between 3 and 30 lux in LL and at approximately 0.3 lux in LD 14:10 or LDSK. The threshold for testicular maintenance in LL was related to the capacity of LL to suppress nocturnal melatonin secretion: 400 lux totally suppressed, 30 or 3 lux partially suppressed, and 0.3 lux failed to suppress melatonin secretion. Hamsters in the LD and LDSK groups, whose locomotion was entrained into a pattern characteristic of long-day exposure, maintained full testicular function; those whose locomotion free-ran or assumed a pattern of entrainment characteristic of short-day exposure underwent testicular regression. These results suggest that light signals entrain the circadian rhythms of locomotion and melatonin secretion in a similar manner,...
Molecular typing of meningiomas by desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging for surgical decision-making

Meningiomas are the most frequent intracranial tumors. The majority is benign slow-growing tumors but they can be difficult to treat depending on their location and size. While meningiomas are well delineated on magnetic resonance imaging by their uptake of contrast, surgical limitations still present themselves from not knowing the extent of invasion of the dura matter by meningioma cells. The development of tools to characterize tumor tissue in real or near real time could prevent recurrence after tumor resection by allowing for more precise surgery, i.e. removal of tumor with preservation of healthy tissue. The development of ambient ionization mass spectrometry for molecular characterization of tissue and its implementation in the surgical decision-making workflow carry the potential to fulfill this need. Here, we present the characterization of meningioma and dura mater by desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry to validate the technique for the molecular assessment of surgical margins and diagnosis of meningioma from surgical tissue in real-time. Nine stereotactically resected surgical samples and three autopsy samples were analyzed by standard histopathology and mass spectrometry imaging. All samples indicated a strong correlation between results from both techniques. We then highlight the value of desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry for the molecular subtyping/subgrouping of meningiomas from a series of forty genetically characterized specimens. The minimal sample preparation required for desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry offers a distinct advantage for applications relying on real-time information such as surgical decision-making. The technology here was tested to distinguish meningioma from dura mater as an approach to precisely define surgical margins. In addition we classify meningiomas into fibroblastic and meningothelial subtypes and more notably recognize meningiomas with NF2 genetic aberrations.
Accelerated Aging of the Thermal Expansion of Unidirectional Graphite/Epoxy Composites by Thermal Fatigue

The longitudinal coefficient of thermal expansion (α 1 ) of unidirectional T300/934 and AS/3501-5A graphite/epoxy (Gr/Ep) composite changes within a thousand thermal cycles at ranges greater than 210 o C. A phenomenological model is developed to extrapolate α 1 to a smaller thermal range (<100 o C) and longer duration (2×10 5 cycles) typical of service in low earth orbit. Factors affecting fiber/matrix interface cracking are considered, and the utility of calculating α 1 from an «effective» fiber volume fraction, which excludes from the volume fiber segments disbonded from the matrix, is demonstrated. This analysis is used to estimate the effect of fiber volume on α 1 of T300/934 Gr/Ep during thermal fatigue
Traffic Modeling for NASA's Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) Network

IP-based communications technologies are being implemented for space applications, including NASA's constellation program and its efforts toward returning humans to the Moon. In order to be able to accurately estimate performance, models have been developed that characterize the types of offered traffic that will occur. Voice and real-time motion imagery (video) models have been specifically developed due to their importance, in addition to general models for telemetry and command data flow. Synthesized traffic may be generated from these models and aggregated to build representative loads on the communications transport resources for performance characterization.
Modeling failure in cross-anisotropic frictional materials

Three-dimensional test results for frictional materials such as soils, concrete, and rock show that the shapes of their failure surfaces are influenced by the intermediate principal stress, shear banding, and cross-anisotropy (transverse isotropy). A general 3D failure criterion for cross-anisotropic soils for both non-rotating and rotating stresses is presented and compared with experimental results for sand, clay, and sea ice. The formulation relates the loading direction to the principal directions of the cross-anisotropic microstructure of the material. The criterion is based on a function of stress, previously used as the 3D failure criterion for isotropic frictional materials, which is set equal to a scalar that varies over a sphere. The formulation is specialized for true triaxial tests and torsion shear tests and determination of material parameters is demonstrated. The failure criterion is compared with experimental results from the literature to show that it is able to capture the conditions obtained in three-dimensional experiments without and with stress rotations. The limitations of the criterion are demonstrated by its failure to capture the behavior of some cross-anisotropic materials with particular micro-structures, and the reasons for the shortcomings are discussed.
Acid mucopolysaccharides in aortic tissue of the dog

Thoracic and abdominal aortas from dogs were analyzed for their mucopolysaccharide content by a modification of existing methods. Acid mucopolysaccharides represented approx. 0.7% of the dry weight. The major components were chondroitinsulfuric acid A and C, with lesser amounts of heparitin sulfate and negligible amounts of hyaluronic acid and chondroitinsulfuric acid B.
Lower peak bone mass and abnormal trabecular and cortical microarchitecture in young men infected with HIV early in life.

INTRODUCTION HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART) early in life may interfere with acquisition of peak bone mass, thereby increasing fracture risk in adulthood. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) in 30 HIV-infected African-American or Hispanic Tanner stage 5 men aged 20-25 on ART (15 perinatally infected and 15 infected during adolescence) and 15 HIV-uninfected controls. RESULTS HIV-infected men were similar in age and BMI, but were more likely to be African-American (P = 0.01) than uninfected men. DXA-derived areal bone mineral density (aBMD) Z-scores were 0.4-1.2 lower in HIV-infected men at the spine, hip, and radius (all P < 0.05). At the radius and tibia, total and trabecular volumetric BMD (vBMD), and cortical and trabecular thickness were between 6 and 19% lower in HIV-infected than uninfected men (P <0.05). HIV-infected men had dramatic deficiencies in plate-related parameters by individual trabeculae segmentation (ITS) analyses and 14-17% lower bone stiffness by finite element analysis. Differences in most HR-pQCT parameters remained significant after adjustment for race/ethnicity. No DXA or HR-pQCT parameters differed between men infected perinatally or during adolescence. CONCLUSION At an age by which young men have typically acquired peak bone mass, HIV-infected men on ART have lower BMD, markedly abnormal trabecular plate and cortical microarchitecture, and decreased whole bone stiffness, whether infected perinatally or during adolescence. Reduced bone strength in young adults infected with HIV early in life may place them at higher risk for fractures as they age.
Bob Marley's ` redemption song': The rhetoric of reggae and Rastafari

Depuis son apparition dans les annees 1930, le mouvement Rastafari a ete une force culturelle et politique determinante dans la lutte anti-colonialiste en Jamaique. Le regain d'interet pour ce mouvement, meme au dela de ce pays, est lie a la diffusion de la musique reggae, dont Bob Marley et son groupe, les Wailers, ont ete les artisans les plus notables. Bien qu'expose a la critique pour ses positions religieuses et son rapport a la marijuana, le mouvement s'affirme cependant comme exemplaire de la lutte contre l'oppression des pauvres et contre le racisme. A travers l'etude de nombreux textes de chansons de Bob Marley, cet article montre le message de liberte mais aussi de redemption vehicule par le reggae. La dimension musicale est egalement examinee dans la mesure ou elle renforce le message et constitue un liant identitaire
Human leukocyte antigen sensitization after transplant loss: timing of antibody detection and implications for prevention

Graft failure is a major cause of broad sensitization but it is not clear whether sensitization occurs immediately after transplant loss or other factors (transfusions, nephrectomy, etc.) trigger it subsequently. Human leukocyte antigen antibodies were measured in 104 patients who lost a kidney transplant. The overall frequency of sensitization was 70%, with a similar rate in patients who lost the graft within 3 days. However, 81% of the patients did not have antibodies at the time of graft loss. Many patients underwent graft nephrectomy, had transfusions, and discontinued immunosuppression, obscuring possible individual effects of each factor. However, some patients without nephrectomy or transfusions made antibodies, whereas none of the patients continuing with immunosuppression did. The results suggest that some patients, such as those with live donors or otherwise candidates for prompt retransplantation, may benefit from continuing maintenance immunosuppression as a means of preventing sensitization after graft loss.
An Accurate von Neumann's Law for Three-Dimensional Foams

The diffusive coarsening of 2D soap froths is governed by von Neumann's law. A statistical version of this law for dry 3D foams has long been conjectured. A new derivation, based on a theorem by Minkowski, yields an explicit analytical von Neumann's law in 3D which is in very good agreement with detailed simulations and experiments. The average growth rate of a bubble with F faces is shown to be proportional to F1/2 for large F, in contrast to the conjectured linear dependence. Accounting for foam disorder in the model further improves the agreement with data.
Zinc decreases C-reactive protein, lipid peroxidation, and inflammatory cytokines in elderly subjects: a potential implication of zinc as an atheroprotective agent

Background: Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are common risk factors for atherosclerosis. Zinc is an essential micronutrient that can function as an antiinflammatory and antioxidative agent, and as such, it may have atheroprotective properties. Objective: We hypothesized that zinc down-regulates the production of atherosclerosis-related cytokines/molecules in humans. Design: To examine these effects, we conducted a randomized, double-blinded, placebo trial of zinc supplementation in elderly subjects. We recruited 40 healthy elderly subjects (aged 56–83 y) and randomly assigned them to 2 groups. One group was given an oral dose of 45 mg zinc/d as a gluconate for 6 mo. The other group was given a placebo. Cell culture models were conducted to study the mechanism of zinc as an atheroprotective agent. Results: After 6 mo of supplementation, the intake of zinc, compared with intake of placebo, increased the concentrations of plasma zinc and decreased the concentrations of plasma high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), interleukin (IL)-6, macrophage chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), secretory phospholipase A2, and malondialdehyde and hydroxyalkenals (MDA+HAE) in elderly subjects. Regression analysis showed that changes in concentrations of plasma zinc were inversely associated with changes in concentrations of plasma hsCRP, MCP-1, VCAM-1, and MDA+HAE after 6 mo of supplementation. In cell culture studies, we showed that zinc decreased the generation of tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-1β, VCAM-1, and MDA+HAE and the activation of nuclear transcription factor κB and increased antiinflammatory proteins A20 and peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor-α in human monocytic leukemia THP-1 cells and human aortic endothelial cells compared with zinc-deficient cells. Conclusion: These findings suggest that zinc may have a protective effect in atherosclerosis because of its antiinflammatory and antioxidant functions.
Lack of association of race/ethnicity and otitis media in the first 2 years of life.

Race has been identified as a risk factor for otitis media (OM) in several studies. To further explore this, a database of visits with age at visit 1 episode, or proportion with? 3 episodes.
l-Serine-Sensitive Mutants of Escherichia coli K-12

While attempting to isolate d-serine-sensitive mutants of Escherichia coli K-12, we found a class of mutants sensitive to low concentrations of l-serine (10 to 25 μg/ml).
Science Signaling Podcast: 25 May 2010

This is a conversation with Wei Hsu about a Research Article published in the 25 May 2010 issue of Science Signaling.
Impact of MAPK Pathway Activation in BRAFV600 Melanoma on T Cell and Dendritic Cell Function

Constitutive upregulation of the MAPK pathway by a BRAFV600 mutation occurs in about half of melanomas. This leads to increased oncogenic properties such as tumor cell invasion, metastatic potential, and resistance to apoptosis. Blockade of the MAPK pathway with highly specific kinase inhibitors induces unprecedented tumor response rates in patients with advanced BRAFV600 mutant melanoma. Immune checkpoint blockade with monoclonal antibodies targeting CTLA-4 and PD-1/PD-L1 has also demonstrated striking anti-tumor activity in patients with advanced melanoma. Tumor responses are likely limited by multiple additional layers of immune suppression in the tumor microenvironment. There is emerging preclinical and clinical evidence suggesting that MAPK inhibition has a beneficial effect on the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, providing a strong rationale for combined immunotherapy and MAPK pathway inhibition in melanoma. The T cell response has been the main focus in the studies reported to date. Since dendritic cells (DCs) are important in the induction of tumor-specific T cell responses, the impact of MAPK pathway activation in melanoma on DC function is critical for the melanoma directed immune response. BRAFV600E melanoma cells modulate DC through the MAPK pathway because its blockade in melanoma cells can reverse suppression of DC function. As both MEK/BRAF inhibition and immune checkpoint blockade have recently taken center stage in the treatment of melanoma, a deeper understanding of how MAPK pathway inhibition affects the tumor immune response is needed.
The Recurrent Unstable Elbow: Diagnosis and Treatment

The elbow is a difficult joint to treat because of the subtle nuances involved in pathology, examination, and treatment. Patients experiencing the sequelae of recurrent elbow instability can lose substantial function in the affected upper extremity. Elbow instability comprises a wide spectrum of diseases, ranging from valgus instability in the throwing athlete to traumatic recurrent rotatory instability to iatrogenic damage. For the orthopaedic surgeon to develop a systematic algorithm for treating elbow instability disorders, it is necessary to understand the basic elbow biomechanics and the alterations that occur in the unstable elbow. A thorough knowledge of the history, physical examination techniques, and imaging studies necessary to diagnose these injury patterns is also needed. Cutting-edge advances in the surgical reconstruction of the unstable elbow will allow those caring for patients with these difficult injuries to make the proper management decisions.
The pathology of head and neck tumors: Vasoformative tumors, part 9B

There are three principal malignant vasoformative tumors that can be found in the head and neck--hemangiopericytoma, angiosarcoma, and Kaposi's sarcoma. All are uncommon and provide challenges for the pathologist and the therapist both. The histogenesis of each tumor is different. Kaposi's sarcoma has many features which suggest that it is an altered immune-response disease. Angiosarcoma is a malignancy of endothelium. Hemangiopericytoma is a tumor whose cell of origin is considered to be the perithelial pericyte. The general prognosis for patients with Kaposi's sarcoma is good. The biologic course of a hemangiopericytoma is variable and unpredictable, but there appears to be a site dependency. Angiosarcomas, particularly high grade lesions, are resistant to therapy.
Noise-aware repeater insertion and wire-sizing for on-chip interconnect using hierarchical moment-matching

Recently, several algorithms for interconnect optimization via repeater insertion and wire sizing have appeared based on the Elmore delay model. Using the Devgan noise metric a noise-aware repeater insertion technique has also been proposed recently. Recognizing the conservatism of these delay and noise models, we propose a moment-matching based technique to interconnect optimization that allows for much higher accuracy while preserving the hierarchical nature of Elmore-delay-based techniques. We also present a novel approach to noise computation that accurately captures the effect of several attackers in linear time with respect to the number of attackers and wire segments. Our practical experiments with industrial nets indicate that the corresponding reduction in error afforded by these more accurate models justifies this increase in runtime for aggressive designs which is our targeted domain. Our algorithm yields delay and noise estimates within 5% of circuit simulation results.
Paul and Onesimus

Recent investigations into the law of fugitives and suppliants in hellenistic Egypt, a law which was based upon the procedure of classic Greece and so was generally like hellenistic law throughout the east, have thrown much light upon the subject, and suggest a reconsideration of the case, of Onesimus and his relations with Paul and Philemon. According to the law of Athens a slave whose life was in danger might flee to an altar and claim sanctuary. The first altar available was frequently the hearth of some private family, with its associations of the family religion. If a refugee rushed into the house and claimed sanctuary, the householder was under legal obligations to give him protection, at least temporarily, while following one of two possible courses. Either he must reconcile the slave to going back to the master, probably by giving the wretch some assurance that the master's wrath was mollified, or, if the slave persisted in refusing to trust himself with the master, the householder was obliged to put the slave up for sale in the market, and pay to the slave's owner the price received. The latter alternative was fraught with serious possibilities for the slave, since in a sale of this kind the circumstances would prejudice prospective buyers against him, and he would probably be purchased only for the roughest sort of service, such as the galleys or the mines. Rather than face such an uncertainty the slave would certainly be glad to go back to the first master if there were any reasonable hope of clemency.
A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY OF SUICIDE NOTES

The author has attempted to categorize a set of suicide notes according to their formal aspects. The perspective adopted is that of the actor, what he must experience, how he must view these experiences, the social constraints restraining him from suicide, how he succeeds in overcoming them, and finally, the precautions he takes to prevent the recurrence of a similar set of circumstances after his death. The paper is based primarily on an analysis of 112 suicide notes of persons who succeeded in suicide in the Los Angeles area. Insights gained by the author through his work with adolescent suicide attempters and their parents also aided in the formulation.
Optimal TIC Bids on Serial Bond Issues

Most serial bond issues are sold competitively on an NIC net interest cost basis. The municipality awards the issue to the bidder submitting the lowest NIC. Although it is often acknowledged that NIC is a defective measure of the interest cost and sometimes a costly one to the issuer, an alternative measure, the TIC true interest cost, effective interest cost, interest cost according to the Canadian method, or the internal rate of return is often regarded as too computationally difficult to employ. State and local governments are becoming increasingly aware of the internal rate of return or TIC as a measure of interest expense. The use of TIC as a method of awarding bond issues to underwriters is growing very rapidly. This paper contains a simple computer algorithm for calculating optimal bids on a TIC basis.
Ventilator-associated pneumonia in a multi-hospital system: differences in microbiology by location.

Objective: To determine whether there were differences in the microbiologic etiologies of ventilator-associated pneumonia in different clinical settings. Design: Observational retrospective cohort study of microbiologic etiologies of ventilator-associated pneumonia from 1998 to 2001 in a multi-hospital system. Microbiologic results were compared between hospitals and between different intensive care units (ICUs) within hospitals. Setting: Three hospitals—one pediatric teaching hospital, one adult teaching hospital, and one community hospital— in one healthcare system in the midwestern United States. Patients: Patients at the target hospitals who developed ventilator-associated pneumonia and for whom microbiologic data were available. Results: Seven hundred fifty-three episodes of ventilator-associated pneumonia had culture data available for review. The most common organisms at all hospitals were Staphylococcus aureus (28.4%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (25.2%). The pediatric hospital had higher proportions of Escherichia coli (9.5% vs 2.3%; P < .001) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (13% vs 3.1%; P < .001) than did the adult hospitals. In the pediatric hospital, the pediatric ICU had higher P. aeruginosa rates than did the neonatal ICU (33.3% vs 17%; P = .01). In the adult hospitals, the surgical ICU had higher Acinetobacter baumannii rates (10.2% vs. 1.7%; P < .001) than did the other ICUs. Conclusions: Microbiologic etiologies of ventilator-associated pneumonia vary between and within hospitals. Knowledge of these differences can improve selection of initial antimicrobial regimens, which may decrease mortality.
Ab initio calculations on H + C2H2 C2H3 using unrestricted Møller–Plesset perturbation theory with spin projection

Hydrogen addition to acetylene has been studied by molecular orbital methods with the unrestricted Hartree–Fock (HF)approach and with Moller–Plesset (MP) perturbation theory up to fourth order using the 6-31G*, 6-31G**, and 6-311G** basis sets. For each basis set a number of points along an approximate reaction path were calculated by fixing the attacking HC distance and optimizing all of the remaining parameters. At these geometries, single point MP4 calculations with and without spin projection were carried out, yielding the position, height, and shape of the addition barrier at the various levels of calculation with each of the three basis sets. The results of this approach were confirmed by a grid search of the region near the transition state using the 6-31G* basis set. The unprojected MP2, MP3, and MP4 barriers are too narrow and are 10–20 kcal/mol too high. With spin projection, the barriers are much lower and broader. At the PMP4SDTQ/6-311G** level, with zero point energy calculated at UHF/6-31G*, the vibrationally adiabatic barrier at 0 K is 4.0 kcal/mol, and the attacking HC distance is 2.0 A.
The Funeral and Modernity in Manjaco

This article asks what it means when Manjaco urban migrants embody and perform cosmopolitanism during funeral ceremonies in rural homelands in Guinea–Bissau. The format of the funeral allows for assertions of individuality that are routinely portrayed as destructive, but destructiveness is imagined as an enduring, by no means recent, feature of social life, whether traditional or cosmopolitan. Manjaco returnees are not compelled to disguise their cosmopolitanism in the mufti of tradition if they want to find a space for themselves in the village. Rather, as the funeral opens up a space for emigrants to celebrate their personal freedom of movement and their capacity to leave the village at will, cosmopolitanism can become the costume of choice at home as well as abroad. In enacting their accomplishments at funerals, Manjaco emigrants make room for cosmopolitanism as a part of what they consider to be “tradition” rather than its opposite. This cosmopolitanism as tradition is pervasive in West Africa. On the basis of an “ethos of modernity,” it is very different from the dichotomizing modernity that is a quintessential feature of both Western vernaculars and of the predominant discourses of social science.
Radiografía de poder mexicano dentro de El gesticulador de Rodolfo Usigli

En este ensayo se estudia la obra teatral El gesticulador de Rodolfo Usigli desde los niveles semanticos del discurso postulados por Greimas, recogidos por Joseph Courtes y desde la perspectiva de la idea sobre el poder de Elias Canetti. Los niveles semanticos de Greimas estan categorizados por los planos figurativos, tematicos y axiologicos. Asimismo, en este trabajo se veran las posiciones del discurso del ejercicio del poder y sus matizaciones en la obra dramatica de Usigli.
Eversion versus Conventional Carotid Endarterectomy: A Meta-analysis of Randomised and Non-randomised Studies

Abstract Background To compare eversion (ECEA) and conventional (CCEA) carotid endarterectomy from randomised and non-randomised studies. Methods Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) and numbers needed to treat (NNTs) were appropriately calculated. A sub-analysis was performed on studies directly comparing ECEA vs. patch CEA (PCEA). Meta-regression analysis was performed to examine the effect of potentially meaningful patient-related, procedure-related and definition-related modifiers. Power calculations were also conducted. Results A total of 21 studies were deemed eligible (8530 ECEA and 7721 CCEA procedures), seven of which were randomised and 14 non-randomised. ECEA was associated with significant reduction in perioperative stroke (OR = 0.46, 95%CI: 0.35–0.62, NNT = 68, 95%CI: 56–96), death (OR = 0.49, 95%CI: 0.34–0.69, NNT = 100, 95%CI: 85–185) and stroke-related death (OR = 0.40, 95%CI: 0.23–0.67, NNT = 147, 95%CI: 115–270); the results were replicated at the sub-analysis on PCEA. Concerning long-term outcomes, ECEA presented with a significant reduction in late carotid artery occlusion (OR = 0.48, 95%CI: 0.25–0.90, NNT = 143, 95%CI: 100–769) and late mortality (OR = 0.76, 95%CI: 0.61–0.94, NNT = 40, 95%CI: 25–167); the sub-analysis on PCEA replicated only the finding on late mortality. Meta-regression analysis did not point to significant effects mediated by the examined modifiers. Power calculations suggested adequate statistical power. Conclusions ECEA compared to CCEA may be associated with a lower incidence in both short-term and long-term outcomes, which does not seem to be hampered by potentially meaningful modifiers.
Aggregating Imprecise Information in Distressed Aircraft Path Planning

This paper investigates the uncertainty information management in emergency path planning via probability and imprecise probability methods. When in-flight failures or damage occur resulting in a distress condition, rapid and precise decision-making under imprecise information is required in order to regain and maintain control of the aircraft. In order to fly the pre-planned aircraft trajectory and complete safe landing, the uncertainties in system dynamics of the damaged aircraft need to be estimated and incorporated at the level of motion re-planning. The damaged aircraft is simulated via a simplified kinematic model. The different sources and perspectives of uncertainties in the damage assessment process and post-distress trajectory re-planning are presented. The objective of the trajectory re-planning is to arrive at a target position while maximizing the safety of the aircraft given uncertain conditions. Comparative analysis between Bayesian and Dempster-Shafer evidence theory is presented for analyzing imprecise information. Simulations that take into account aircraft dynamics, path complexity, distance to landing site, runway characteristics, and subjective human decision are presented for motion planning and landing of an aircraft following a hypothetical distress event.
Sick sinus syndrome: synopsis.

Sick sinus syndrome (SSS) is a term used for a variety of cardiac arrhythmias, occurring predominantly in the elderly, that result from a senescent sinus node. Because the sinus node is the normal pacemaker of the heart, its dysfunction is a cause for concern. Although the major problem is failure
Hack or Attack? Shamoon and the Evolution of Cyber Conflict

Information technology experts study the background and context of the Shamoon cyberattack on Saudi Aramco, as well as itemize open-source facts and public statements surrounding the episode. This paper has been approved for publication in the March 2013 issue of Survival, Global Politics and Strategy.
Impacts of agricultural irrigation on ozone concentrations in the Central Valley of California and in the contiguous United States based on WRF-Chem simulations

In this study, a realistic irrigation method is incorporated into a model called Weather Research and Forecasting with Chemistry (WRF-Chem) to determine the impacts of irrigation on ozone and other pollutants over the Central Valley of California and thereafter throughout the contiguous United States. In comparison with observations, model simulations at current configurations underestimate ozone (O3) and volatile organic compound (VOC) concentrations, especially during the elevated episode periods. The model results, however, are generally comparable with previous studies and the simulations adequately capture the spatial and temporal variability of these pollutant concentrations. In comparison with observations and model control runs, model simulations with irrigation runs are slightly improved. Our results show that irrigation increases primary pollutant concentrations in the irrigated areas under cloudless conditions, consistent with previous studies. In July and August, 2005, for instance, with clear skies, irrigation increases hourly surface [CO] up to 40 ppb with an irrigated grid average of 16 ppb or 8.3%; [VOC] up to 10 ppb with an irrigated grid average of 4.6 ppb or 21.4%; and [NOx] up to 4 ppb with irrigated grid average of 0.72 ppb or 12.6%, especially near urban areas during daytime. On the other hand, irrigation marginally decreases ground-level ozone concentrations ([O3]) over irrigated land: it decreases hourly [O3] by −0.14 ppb or −0.45% and decreases daily 8 h maximum average (DMA8) [O3] by −0.39 ppb or −0.76%. In contrast, irrigation increases hourly [O3] up to 5 ppb over the surrounding unirrigated areas of the San Joaquin Valley, during both daytime and nighttime. Furthermore, except for the Pacific Northwest, similar patterns of ozone variation are simulated by the model in other irrigated regions in the continental United States. The explanation is that irrigation results in cooler ground surfaces, which first decreases instability and turbulence, leading to a weakening of the vertical mixing of primary pollutants. Therefore, irrigation increases surface primary pollutant concentrations within the irrigation zone. Irrigation also results in daytime local circulations that enhance horizontal transport of ozone and other pollutants from irrigated to unirrigated areas near the ground surface. Because our results are based on two months in 2005 and on national anthropogenic emission inventories, the magnitude of these ozone changes could vary somewhat year to year; nonetheless, the methods and results from this study can be applied to any heavily polluted and irrigated agricultural area.
Recurrent dislocation of the hip.

Actual recurrent dislocation of the hip unassociated with acetabular fracture, congenital dysplasia, sepsis, or paralysis is very rare. Before 1945 only seven such instances had been reported. In the eighth case, which has been presented in this paper, the condition was treated by surgical reinforcement of the posterior superior supports of the hip (with a bone block) and by fascial repair of the capsule.
Anomalous Quantization Error Lobes in Phased Array Images

Time quantization errors result from the discrete time increment delay lines used to steer and focus phased array ultrasonic imaging systems. These quantized time delays, required for the phasing of the individual elements within the transducer aperture, create a phase grating which can produce anomalous quantization error lobes within the field of view of the imaging system [1,2]. The manifestation of these lobes can be seen in computer simulations of the azimuthal impulse response and in scans made of point reflectors as an increased sidelobe amplitude which can limit the dynamic range of the imaging system.
Conversion of Pollen Particles into Three-Dimensional Ceramic Replicas Tailored for Multimodal Adhesion

We report the first syntheses of three-dimensional (3D) nanocrystalline all-oxide replicas of pollen microparticles tailored for multimodal (bioenabled and synthetic) adhesion via use of a scalable, highly conformal surface sol–gel (SSG) coating process. High-fidelity replication allowed the pollen-shaped oxide microparticles to be utilized for adhesion via tailorable short-range (∼10 nm) van der Waals (VDW) attraction, with the magnitude of such VDW-based adhesion influenced by the nanoscale topography of surface features retained by the replicas. Conversion of the pollen into ferrimagnetic (Fe3O4) microparticle replicas allowed the use of magnetic attraction at short and long ranges (up to ∼1 mm). By selecting pollen particles with particular surface features and by SSG-enabled conversion of such pollen into 3D nanocrystalline replicas composed of an appropriate type and amount of magnetic oxide, adhesive microparticles with tunable short- and long-range attractive forces can be generated.
Bailey-Dubow Rods in the Treatmet of Osteogenesis Imperfecta

We reviewed our experience of multiple osteotomies with realignment and intramedullary rod fixation of deformed bones in 3 patients with osteogenesis imperfecta. There were one 7-year-old boy and two 6-year-old girls who were twins. The average duration of follow-up was 4.3 years. A further five operations were needed for treatment of complications which included one of femoral non-union, three of anterior placement of the rods and bony angular deformities in the distal part of the tibia, and one of proximal migration of the proximal end of the femoral rod. Satisfactory revisions for these had been carried out.Another complication was cessation of elongation in six rods due to slight bending of the rods from 2.5 to 3 years postoperatively. No patients suffered a fracture after rodding. Prior to surgery none of the subjects had been able to walk. After surgery the boy was able to walk with braces and the twins walked using braces and walkers at the time of review. Dispite a high rate of complications, Bailey-Dubow rods are considered to be a useful treatment for growing children suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta.
Mechanisms of drug incorporation into hair

Hair testing for drugs of abuse is a developing technology that offers the possibility of longer detection times than is commonly obtained with urine or blood analysis. There are many uncertainties concerning how drugs enter hair and factors that affect drug deposition and residence in hair. Possible routes of drug entry include diffusion from blood, sweat, sebum, and skin and entry from the environment. Evidence is reviewed regarding the importance of each of these routes as possible contributors to drug deposition in hair. Binding to specific sites in hair may involve both electrostatic forces and weaker attractions, such as van der Waals forces. Melanin and protein constituents of hair may serve as binding sites. Recent in vitro studies suggest that the color of hair or melanin content may be the major determinant of cocaine binding and, consequently, may result in color or ethnic bias in hair testing.
A preliminary study on the treatment of experimental aganglionosis by mesenchymal stem cells transplantation into colon in vivo

Objective To explore the feasibility of the treating of experimental aganglionosis by mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)transplantation into the colon.Methods Sprague Dawley rats,8-9 weeks old,were applied 0.1% benzalkonium chloride(BAC)to establish rat models of experimental aganglionosis.MSCs were cultured and proliferated by adhesive-screening method.The MSCs with ex- pressions of Nestin and NF were obtained after induced by ATRA and FGF2,and then were transplan- ted into female experimental aganglionosis rats'colon by microinjection.Microscopic observation,con- trast roentgenography of colon,detections of Nestin and NF by immunochemistry,pharmacologic ex- aminations for contraction of colonic smooth muscle,and detection of ion transport of colonic epitheli- um by the short-circuit current were performed at an interval of 1w,2w and 4w after MSCs transplan- tation.Results One week after BAC treatment,the rats had abdominal distention.Roentagenographic examination and autopsy revealed a narrowed segment.MSCs with positive expression of Nestin,purl fled by an adhesive-screening method,differentiated into neuronal cells in normal rats'colon.Immuno- chemistry showed sprinkled positive cells with expressions of Nestin and NF at 1w,2w and 4w after MSCs transplantation.Nevertheless,no positive cells were observed after PBS transplantation.Less ab- dominal distention and less feces filled in distended proximal colon was observed in MSCs transplanta- tion group compared with PBS transplantation group.The short-circuit current produced by colonic ep- ithelium increased at 1w after MSCs transplantation.However,basal short-circuit current and amin- oride-sensitive short-circuit current decreased at 4w.The forskolin-induced short-circuit current in- creased significantly compared with PBS transplantation group.Conclusions MSCs can differentiate into neuron cells in colon of rats with experimental aganglionosis and partially repair neuromuscular modulation of colon.
Identification of a circulating microRNA signature to distinguish recurrence in breast cancer patients

There is an urgent need for novel noninvasive prognostic biomarkers for monitoring the recurrence of breast cancer. The purpose of this study is to identify circulating microRNAs that can predict breast cancer recurrence. We conducted a microRNA profiling experiment in serum samples from 48 breast cancer patients using Exiqon miRCURY microRNA RT-PCR panels. Significantly differentiated miRNAs for recurrence in the discovery profiling were further validated in an independent set of sera from 20 patients with breast cancer recurrences and 22 patients without recurrences. We identified seven miRNAs that were differentially expressed between breast cancer patients with and without recurrences, including four miRNAs upregulated (miR-21-5p, miR-375, miR-205-5p, and miR-194-5p) and three miRNAs downregulated (miR-382-5p, miR-376c-3p, and miR-411-5p) for recurrent patients. Using penalized logistic regression, we built a 7-miRNA signature for breast cancer recurrence, which had an excellent discriminating capacity (concordance index=0.914). This signature was significantly associated with recurrence after adjusting for known prognostic factors, and it was applicable to both hormone-receptor positive (concordance index=0.890) and triple-negative breast cancers (concordance index=0.942). We also found the 7-miRNA signature were reliably measured across different runs of PCR experiments (intra-class correlation coefficient=0.780) and the signature was significantly higher in breast cancer patients with recurrence than healthy controls (p=1.1x10-5). In conclusion, circulating miRNAs are promising biomarkers and the signature may be developed into a minimally invasive multi-marker blood test for continuously monitoring the recurrence of breast cancer. It should be further validated for different subtypes of breast cancers in longitudinal studies.
Impact of inpatient radiation on length of stay and health care costs.

BACKGROUND Health care costs are rising. Identifying areas for health care utilization savings may reduce costs. OBJECTIVE To identify oncology patients receiving inpatient radiotherapy with the purpose of measuring length of stay (LoS) and hospital charges. METHODS During July 2013 the oncology service physicians at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City were surveyed daily to identify patients receiving inpatient radiation. Actual LoS, acuity LoS were determined from the chart review. Expected LoS was calculated using the University Healthsystem Consortium database. Charges associated with actual LoS, acuity LoS, and expected LoS were then reported. Actual and expected LoS were compared for inpatient radiotherapy and nonradiotherapy groups. RESULTS 7 patients were identified as having remained in the hospital to receive radiation treatment. In that cohort, the average actual LoS and charges per patient were 40.1 and $48,724, compared with acuity LoS and charges of 25.6 days and $34,089 and expected LoS and charges of 7.7 days and $10,028. Mean LoS and charges attributed to radiation alone amounted to 11 days and $12,514. The mean actual LoS of oncology patients admitted during the same time period who did not receive radiation was 6.7 days, compared with 40.1 days for patients who received radiation (𝑃 < .0001). LIMITATIONS Inability to access actual reimbursement data prevented exact cost calculations, small sample size, and single-institution focus. CONCLUSIONS Delivery of radiation therapy during inpatient hospitalization extends LoS and contributes to higher health care costs. Methods to facilitate the delivery of outpatient radiotherapy may result in cost savings.
Neuropsychological Assessment 2.0: Computer-Automated Assessments

This chapter examines the history and development of computerized neuropsychological assessment devices. The description includes early attempts at automation and interpretation, followed by a period of disillusionment, and finally resurgence for return-to-play decisions. In addition to an account of various commercially available applications for computerized assessments, “common currency” assessments such as the NIH Toolbox are presented. There is also a breakdown of strengths and limitations of computerized neuropsychological assessment devices. Strengths include their potential to augment task administration, scoring, collection of normative data, and in some cases interpret tests. In addition to administration issues, advantages have been noted for complex stimulus presentation and response logging. A number of concerns have also been raised. A notable concern is whether the patient’s perception of the computer-generated stimuli and responses to the computerized administration is significantly different from traditional paper-and-pencil measures. A further concern is the varying familiarity levels that individuals may have of computer software and interfaces (e.g., mouse and keyboard). These issues may result in a failure of computer-administered tests to deliver results that are identical (or even comparable) to a paper-and-pencil test administered by an examiner. Finally, the chapter concludes with a reference to the need for future computerized assessments to deliver ecologically valid assessments.
Comparative effects of in ovo versus subcutaneous administration of the Marek's disease vaccine and pre-placement holding time on the post-hatch performance of Ross 708 broilers,,

Abstract Effects of 2 types of methods of administration (moa; in ovo or s.c.) of the Marek's disease (MD) vaccine and 4 and 18 h pre-placement holding times (pht) on the performance of male broilers through 48 d of age were investigated. Ross 708 broiler hatching eggs (3,900) were either in ovo-vaccinated at 18 d of incubation or chicks from eggs that were not in ovo-injected were vaccinated s.c. at hatch, and chicks from each moa group were held for one of the 2 pht. In ovo injections (50 μL) were delivered by a commercial multi-egg injector and s.c. injections (0.2 mL) were delivered by an automatic pneumatic s.c. injector. Sixteen birds were assigned to each of 15 replicate floor pens belonging to each of the 4 moa and pht combination groups. Mortality and BW gain were determined at weekly intervals, and feed consumption and conversion were determined in the zero to 14, 14 to 28, 28 to 42, and 42 to 48 d age intervals. No interactive effects between moa and pht were observed for any variable, and mortality was not significantly affected by moa or pht. The 14 to 28 d feed consumption and 14 to 21 d BW gain of s.c.-vaccinated birds were lower than that of in ovo-vaccinated birds, and the increase in pht from 4 to 18 h decreased feed consumption through 28 d post hatch and BW gain through 35 d post hatch. Overall, the performances of male Ross 708 broilers through 48 d of age in response to in ovo and s.c. injections of the MD vaccine were comparable, and delays in hatchling placement should be less that 18 h in duration. Furthermore, despite the decrease in BW gain through 35 d associated with the reduction in feed consumption through 28 d in response to the 14 h increase in pht, in ovo injection did not exacerbate the effect of the increase in pht.