cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New Balancing Principles Applied to Circumsolids of Revolution, and to n-Dimensional Spheres, Cylindroids, and Cylindrical Wedges

Archimedes’ mechanical balancing methods led him to stunning discoveries concerning the volume of a sphere, and of a cylindrical wedge. This paper introduces new balancing principles (different from those of Archimedes) including a balance-revolution principle and double equilibrium, that go much further. They yield a host of surprising relations involving both volumes and surface areas of circumsolids of revolution, as well as higher-dimensional spheres, cylindroids, spherical wedges, and cylindrical wedges. The concept of cylindroid, introduced here, is crucial for extending to higher dimensions Archimedes’ classical relations on the sphere and cylinder. We also provide remarkable new results for centroids of hemispheres in n-space. Throughout the paper, we adhere to Archimedes’ style of reducing properties of complicated objects to those of simpler objects.
Binary synthesis

Recent high-level synthesis approaches and C-based hardware description languages attempt to improve the hardware design process by allowing developers to capture desired hardware functionality in a well-known high-level source language. However, these approaches have yet to achieve wide commercial success due in part to the difficulty of incorporating such approaches into software tool flows. The requirement of using a specific language, compiler, or development environment may cause many software developers to resist such approaches due to the difficulty and possible instability of changing well-established robust tool flows. Thus, in the past several years, synthesis from binaries has been introduced, both in research and in commercial tools, as a means of better integrating with tool flows by supporting all high-level languages and software compilers. Binary synthesis can be more easily integrated into a software development tool-flow by only requiring an additional backend tool, and it even enables completely transparent dynamic translation of executing binaries to configurable hardware circuits. In this article, we survey the key technologies underlying the important emerging field of binary synthesis. We compare binary synthesis to several related areas of research, and we then describe the key technologies required for effective binary synthesis: decompilation techniques necessary for binary synthesis to achieve results competitive with source-level synthesis, hardware/software partitioning methods necessary to find critical binary regions suitable for synthesis, synthesis methods for converting regions to custom circuits, and binary update methods that enable replacement of critical binary regions by circuits.
Aortico-left ventricular tunnel. Clinical profile, diagnostic features, and surgical consideration.

Case histories of 2 patients with aortico–left ventricular tunnel are reported. A review of the literature on this subject shows a unique clinical profile. The electrocardiographic (ECG) and roentgenographic features as well as the hemodynamic and angiographic data of 18 previously reported patients are reviewed. The anatomy and pathophysiology of the defect are discussed and surgical management is described. It is recommended that surgical correction be carried out as soon as the diagnosis is established.
PO-0378 Safety Of Bifidobacterium Animalis Subsp. Lactis (b. Lactis) Strain Bb-12-supplemented Yoghourt In Healthy Children: A Phase I Safety Study

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in sufficient doses, provide health benefits on the host. The purpose of the study is to determine the safety of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis ( B. lactis ) strain BB-12 (BB-12)-supplemented yoghourt when consumed by generally healthy children. Secondary aims are to evaluate the influence of BB-12 on the faecal microbiome and changes in the microbial community. A phase I, double-blinded, randomised, placebo-controlled study was conducted in compliance with United States Food and Drug Administration guidelines for an Investigational New Drug (IND). Sixty participants were randomly assigned to consume four-ounces of the active yoghourt supplemented with BB-12 or placebo yoghourt daily for 10 days. The primary outcome was to assess safety and tolerability, assessed by the number of reported adverse events. Preliminary results show 181 non-serious adverse events were reported, with no differences between the groups. Three serious adverse events unrelated to the yoghourt interventions were reported. BB-12 supplemented yoghourt is safe and well-tolerated when consumed by healthy children. Faecal samples collected before, during and after the intervention period will be analysed using state-of-the-art DNA sequencing and analysis tools to assess the relationship between the microbiome and probiotics, and to provide novel information on the dynamics of the complex ecosystem in the human gut. This study will form the basis for future clinical trials investigating the potential effects of BB-12 supplemented yoghourt in a variety of disease states.
Fiber Optic Sensors for Partial Discharge Monitoring in Power Transformers

This paper describes a fiber optic acoustic sensor system, which has been designed and tested for on - line detection of the acoustic waves generated by partial discharges inside high voltage power transformers. The sensor uses a fused silica diaphragm and a single mode optical fiber encapsulated in a fused silica glass tube to form an extrinsic Fabry - Perot interferometer, which is interrogated by a low - coherence light. Test results indicate that the developed fiber optic acoustic sensors are capable of detecting the acoustic signals propagating in transformer oil with high sensitivity and wide bandwidth.
Persistent robot formation flight via online substitution

This paper presents an online optimization-based approach to compute trajectories to enable substitution of robots in formation-based deployments with durations that exceed the energy capacity of individual systems. The proposed algorithm computes trajectories in a multi-robot context to ensure a collision-free exchange, even where congestion is a concern. The quality of the resulting trajectories is determined by the amount of time spent deviating from the original plan while maintaining collision-free, speed-limited polynomial splines. The algorithm is shown through simulation and experiments to be viable with average deviation time gaps of less than 16 seconds and average computation times of under 3 minutes for the presented scenarios with varying numbers of robots and deployment specifications.
Technocracy and Scientific Progress

When Newton’s contemporary, the English author Daniel Defoe, heard a sailor’s tale about having been shipwrecked and marooned, he was seized with great excitement and ran home to start writing his classic Robinson Crusoe. It is not that a marooned sailor is such a rare bird, that the very meeting of one fires the imagination. Nor is there in the story Defoe wrote any detailed knowledge that requires an interview with an experienced informant to find it out. On the contrary, inasmuch as there is detailed information in Defoe’s book, it has to do with the inner life of his hero; most likely this reflects the mentality of the author much more than that of the informant. For, what we hear about the ecology of Robinson Crusoe’s desert island, and about the desired knowledge concerning suivival on it, is less than minimal. If anything, the author takes literary license and allows his hero to salvage from the wrecked ship a few essential tools that he could not possibly manufacture, a few seeds which he certainly could make do without, and a Bible. The story is most impressive in its austerity and bareness. When things start moving at all and Man Friday appears, the story is drastically altered. Up till there it is a parable of the self-sufficient individual; from then on it is the parable of the role of the self-sufficient individual as lord and master.
The “materials space” of DC polymeric dielectrics

The operation of dielectrics in DC power apparatus depends on nonlinear and temperature-dependent conductivity of the dielectric. These two parameters are (anti-)correlated. We propose a relatively simple formalism for modeling the conductivity of polymeric dielectrics which includes this correlation based on relatively few physical parameters and which fits well the available, but admittedly limited, published data.
Perceived Sexual Orientation of Men and Women with Eating Disorders and Obesity.

The present study explores the perceived sexual orientation of hypothetical men and women with various eating disorders and obesity. Undergraduates were randomly provided with one vignette describi...
Database Pointers in Navigational and Object–Oriented Database Management Systems: A Comparison

As information systems and, more specifically, database management systems, attempt to model particular application environments, they must be able to account for and keep track of how the entities in the environments relate to each other. In the first or navigational generation of DBMS, relationships were maintained by pointer chains that connected the records representing the related entities. In the second or relational generation of DBMS, the tuples, representing related entities were not connected by pointers, but could be â€œjoinedâ€ at query time based on common values of particular fields. In the third or objectâ€“oriented generation of DBMS, there are two major structural approaches. One is a pointerâ€“based approach while the other, is designed to add advanced, objectâ€“oriented features to the relational model. Recently, perhaps inevitably, interest in the objectâ€“oriented pointerâ€“based approach has led to questions of whether it is, in some sense, a return to navigational DBMS. While objectâ€“oriented database clearly has major features that go far beyond the capabilities of first generation DBMSs, this article will show that a comparative analysis of pointer usage in navigational DBMS and in objectâ€“ oriented DBMS can yield interesting results, plus a better understanding of the objectâ€“oriented DBMS paradigm.
Brief Psychotherapy with Adolescents: Individual and Family Approaches

In this paper the author describes key principles informing brief psychotherapy with adolescents. Both individual and family approaches are considered. Key principles of brief psychotherapy include...
Adverse Outcomes Associated With Potentially Inappropriate Antibiotic Use in Heart Failure Admissions.

Background Acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) can be confused with other conditions that cause dyspnea. Patients with ADHF are often simultaneously treated for community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), even when evidence for infection is lacking. We hypothesized that the fluid and sodium content of potentially unnecessary intravenous antibiotic (IVAB) therapy could worsen outcomes of ADHF patients. Methods We reviewed 144 ADHF patients at low risk of pneumonia based on diagnostic findings and clinical documentation. The primary end point was length of stay. Secondary outcomes were mortality, readmission rates, amount of diuretic received, and fluid volume and quantity of sodium administered as part of IVAB therapy. Results Of the 144 admissions reviewed, 88 did not and 56 did receive IVAB. IVAB-treated patients received an average of 1.7 L of additional fluid (230 mL/d) and 9311 mg of additional sodium (1381 mg/d) as a result of IVAB therapy. Length of stay was longer in the IVAB arm (6.6 days) compared with the no-IVAB arm (3.0 days; P < .001). Patients required more furosemide in the IVAB arm (930 mg) compared with the no-IVAB arm (320 mg; P < .001). Patients who received IVAB were also 2.51 times more likely to be readmitted compared with patients who did not receive IVAB (P = .04). Conclusions ADHF patients who received IVAB without evidence of infection had longer lengths of stay, required more diuretics, and were more likely to be readmitted compared with ADHF patients not exposed to IVAB. ADHF patients are a promising target of antibiotic stewardship interventions.
Oral epithelial membrane-associated mucins and transcriptional changes with Sjögren's syndrome.

Objectives To determine expression and localization of membrane-associated mucins within human keratinized and non-keratinized oral epithelia, and to explore transcriptional changes associated with primary Sjogren's syndrome. Subjects and methods Mucin transcripts and glycoproteins were determined by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively, in oral keratinized (hard palate) and non-keratinized (buccal) epithelia obtained from three cadavers. Mucin transcripts assessed by quantitative PCR were compared between cells harvested by brushing buccal and palatal epithelia of 25 female primary Sjogren's syndrome patients vs 25 healthy age-matched female control subjects. Results In hard palate, MUC4 is absent and MUC1 localized to deeper cell layers. Both mucins are within the apical layers of buccal epithelium. MUC15 is localized throughout all palatal cell layers and in all but the basal layer of buccal epithelia. MUC16, MUC20, and MUC21 glycoproteins are localized within all but the basal cell layer of both tissue types. In buccal cells of primary Sjogren's patients, MUC21 transcripts are down-regulated 3.4-fold and MUC20 2.6-fold. Dysregulation of select epithelial mucins may therefore contribute to xerostomia. Conclusions Differential expression of multiple mucins and down-regulation in Sjogren's syndrome support further study of oral epithelial mucin physiology and pathophysiology, including their functions in hydration and lubrication of the oral mucosal pellicle.
Cardiovascular risks in type 2 diabetes and the interpretation of cardiovascular outcome trials

Background Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are at increased cardiovascular (CV) risk compared to subjects without diabetes, with some data estimating that CV disease (CVD) risk is doubled in these individuals. Additionally, CVD remains the leading cause of death in patients with T2D, so it is paramount to determine the relationship between these two diseases. Purpose Older diabetes treatments have limited CV safety data. In 2008, the US Food and Drug Administration published guidance for manufacturers on antihyperglycemic agents, requiring studies to ensure CV safety of new therapies. Since then, manufacturers of many newer agents have conducted and published results from CV outcomes trials (CVOTs), with more trials due to publish soon. This review discusses the relationship between CVD and T2D and explores findings from the latest CVOTs of glucose-lowering agents to guide nurse practitioners in their prescribing patterns for patients with T2D. Conclusion Patients with T2D are at high risk of CVD, so CV risk should be carefully considered when managing these patients, and CV risks and benefits of antidiabetic drugs should be included in prescribing decisions.
Chekhov's corner: Using Dreamland: The True Tale of America's Opiate Epidemic in the public health classroom.

BACKGROUND Narratives can provide an interesting approach to health communication, incorporating anecdotes, imagery, and details that resonate with readers. Given this context, the purpose of this study was to explore the use of Dreamland: The True Tale of America's Opiate Epidemic to define and demonstrate an understanding of Ethos, Pathos and Logos. METHODS This qualitative, cross-sectional education research was based on the use of Dreamland: The True Tale of America's Opiate Epidemic by Sam Quinones in an undergraduate elective. The elective course focused on using popular literature to promote a better understanding of health concepts. The assignment focused on the applicability of models of persuasion (Ethos, Pathos, and Logos) used in this book. Responses (n = 18) were compiled and reviewed following the basic premise of the Grounded Theory approach. This allowed for the identification and development of overarching themes in a way that gives a sense of how students applied this reading to the aforementioned directed question regarding models of persuasion. RESULTS In establishing Ethos, the author's background as a journalist and the detailed interviews with credible sources were two major themes. Student quotations demonstrate that Pathos in this book was exemplified by presenting many different aspects of a complicated epidemic, rife with possibilities for evoking emotion. Illustrative quotations indicate that students are critically analyzing the text. CONCLUSION Narratives can serve as a vehicle that influences people's understandings and beliefs, potentially promoting change in behavior or attitudes. They can enhance public health education and learning in an enriching and cross-disciplinary way.
On the cause of sleep: Protein fragments, the concept of sentinels, and links to epilepsy

The molecular-level cause of sleep is unknown. In 2012, we suggested that the cause of sleep stems from cumulative effects of numerous intracellular and extracellular protein fragments. According to the fragment generation (FG) hypothesis, protein fragments (which are continually produced through nonprocessive cleavages by intracellular, intramembrane, and extracellular proteases) can be beneficial but toxic as well, and some fragments are eliminated slowly during wakefulness. We consider the FG hypothesis and propose that, during wakefulness, the degradation of accumulating fragments is delayed within natural protein aggregates such as postsynaptic densities (PSDs) in excitatory synapses and in other dense protein meshworks, owing to an impeded diffusion of the ∼3,000-kDa 26S proteasome. We also propose that a major function of sleep involves a partial and reversible expansion of PSDs, allowing an accelerated destruction of PSD-localized fragments by the ubiquitin/proteasome system. Expansion of PSDs would alter electrochemistry of synapses, thereby contributing to a decreased neuronal firing during sleep. If so, the loss of consciousness, a feature of sleep, would be the consequence of molecular processes (expansions of protein meshworks) that are required for degradation of protein fragments. We consider the concept of FG sentinels, which signal to sleep-regulating circuits that the levels of fragments are going up. Also discussed is the possibility that protein fragments, which are known to be overproduced during an epileptic seizure, may contribute to postictal sleep and termination of seizures. These and related suggestions, described in the paper, are compatible with current evidence about sleep and lead to testable predictions.
Timing of Placenta Examination Orders: How Long Should Placentas Be Stored Before Discarding?

Storage of refrigerated, unfixed placentas in case of late complications is recommended for durations of ≥3 days to 2 weeks. At Northwestern Memorial Hospital, placentas are stored for 1 week. Obst...
JacquardToolkit: enabling and exploring interactions with the Levi's jacquard jacket

New user interfaces afford innovations in the user experience of computers- the interactive textile approach posed by Jacquard is another step in this evolution[1, 5]. Although it demonstrates four gestures via the Levi's Jacquard Jacket [4], we experiment with potential applications to explore new forms of user inputs. We have built a toolkit that enables developers full access to the Jacquard technology and custom gesture creation [2, 3]. We subsequently used this to develop a custom Force Touch gesture, which is now integrated into the aforementioned iOS toolkit such that developers may use it to implement original and new jacket functionality into their own applications. The playground application helps developers understand how to effectively utilize the library. In parallel, we evaluated the Jacquard hardware by conducting a detailed tear down of the Jacket cuff and tag. We mapped how such sensing technology can be removed from the jacket and applied to other textiles with conductive threads. Moreover, our findings motivate future testing on other garments and accessories as we isolated the Jacquard swatch from the cuff. In order to evaluate the intuitiveness of the jacket gestures and test learnability of the new custom gestures, we designed a user assessment application with the toolkit to conduct a user study with 25 subjects. Results showed that both Brush In and Brush Out had the easiest learning curve and were perceived as most intuitive. Brush In (48%) stood out as the most preferred gesture followed by Double Tap (20%). Although the custom gesture, Force Touch, had the lowest perceived intuitiveness, it serves as the first key step towards a future of rapidly prototyped and consumer-ready custom gestures.
Can Multi-Layer Microfluidic Design Methods Aid Bio-Intellectual Property Protection?

Researchers develop bioassays by rigorously experimenting in the lab. This involves significant fiscal and skilled person-hour investment. A competitor can reverse engineer a bioassay implementation by imaging or taking a video of a biochip when in use. Thus, there is a need to protect the intellectual property (IP) rights of the bioassay developer. We introduce a novel 3D multilayer-based obfuscation to protect a biochip against reverse engineering.
Mass Spectrometry-Based Protein Footprinting for Higher-Order Structure Analysis: Fundamentals and Applications

Proteins adopt different higher-order structures (HOS) to enable their unique biological functions. Understanding the complexities of protein higher-order structures and dynamics requires integrated approaches, where mass spectrometry (MS) is now positioned to play a key role. One of those approaches is protein footprinting. Although the initial demonstration of footprinting was for the HOS determination of protein/nucleic acid binding, the concept was later adapted to MS-based protein HOS analysis, through which different covalent labeling approaches "mark" the solvent accessible surface area (SASA) of proteins to reflect protein HOS. Hydrogen-deuterium exchange (HDX), where deuterium in D2O replaces hydrogen of the backbone amides, is the most common example of footprinting. Its advantage is that the footprint reflects SASA and hydrogen bonding, whereas one drawback is the labeling is reversible. Another example of footprinting is slow irreversible labeling of functional groups on amino acid side chains by targeted reagents with high specificity, probing structural changes at selected sites. A third footprinting approach is by reactions with fast, irreversible labeling species that are highly reactive and footprint broadly several amino acid residue side chains on the time scale of submilliseconds. All of these covalent labeling approaches combine to constitute a problem-solving toolbox that enables mass spectrometry as a valuable tool for HOS elucidation. As there has been a growing need for MS-based protein footprinting in both academia and industry owing to its high throughput capability, prompt availability, and high spatial resolution, we present a summary of the history, descriptions, principles, mechanisms, and applications of these covalent labeling approaches. Moreover, their applications are highlighted according to the biological questions they can answer. This review is intended as a tutorial for MS-based protein HOS elucidation and as a reference for investigators seeking a MS-based tool to address structural questions in protein science.
Turnover Intention Among Nurses in Nurse Managers, Directors, and Executives: Developing a Tool for Measuring Environmental Factors.

Background and purpose Turnover among nurse managers, directors, and executives is associated with staff nurse retention and patient outcomes. The purpose of this article is to describe the development of an instrument to evaluate factors associated with intent to leave among these leaders within acute care facilities. Methods The Nurse Leader Environment Support Survey (NLESS) was developed and evaluated using exploratory factor analysis and reliability testing (Cronbach's α). Data was obtained as part of a large nationwide electronic survey (N = 1,903). Results Factors converged into three major themes (organizational culture, professional vulnerability, and workplace relationships) which were consistent across all three leadership groups. Factor subscales exhibited Cronbach's α > .7. Conclusions The NLESS is a useful tool in comparing reasons for turnover among nursing leadership groups. Future refinement may prove useful in identifying and clarifying foundational causes of turnover.
Developmental regulation of oocyte lipid uptake via ′patent′ follicular epithelium in Drosophila melanogaster

Epithelia form protective permeability barriers that selectively allow the exchange of material while maintaining tissue integrity under extreme mechanical, chemical, and bacterial loads. Here, we report in the Drosophila follicular epithelium a developmentally regulated and evolutionarily conserved process, ′patency′, wherein a breach is created in the epithelium at tricellular contacts during mid-vitellogenesis. In Drosophila, patency exhibits a strict temporal range delimited by the transcription factor Tramtrack69, and a spatial pattern regulated by the dorsal-anterior signals of the follicular epithelium. Crucial for lipid uptake by the oocyte, patency is also exploited by endosymbionts such as Spiroplasma pulsonii. Our findings reveal an evolutionarily conserved non-typical epithelial function in a classic model system.
Improving Home-School Collaboration with Disadvantaged Families: Organizational Principles, Perspectives, and Approaches

Although it has been well-established that home-school collaboration benefits all children, it appears to be particularly important for children whose backgrounds include risk factors such as econo...
Narrative review of practical aspects of aerosol delivery via high-flow nasal cannula

Using high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) as a "vehicle" to administer aerosolized medication has attracted clinicians' interest in recent years. In this paper, we summarize the current evidence to answer the common questions raised by clinicians about this new aerosol delivery route and best practices of administration. Benefits of trans-nasal aerosol delivery include increased comfort, ability to speak, eat, and drink for patients while meeting a range of oxygen requirements, particularly for those who need to inhale aerosolized medication for long periods. Aerosol administration via HFNC has been shown to be well tolerated by children and adults, with comparable or better delivery efficacy than other interfaces, ranging from 2-20%. In vitro and in vivo scintigraphy studies among pediatric and adult populations reported that the inhaled dose delivered via a vibrating mesh nebulizer is 2 to 3 fold greater than that via a jet nebulizer. For adults, placement of nebulizer at the inlet of humidifier increases inhaled dose while reducing rainout obstructing nasal prongs. When HFNC gas flow is set below patient inspiratory flow, aerosol deposition is higher than when the gas flow exceeds patient inspiratory flow; thus, if tolerated, titrating down HFNC gas flow during trans-nasal aerosol delivery, with close monitoring and the use of unit dose with high concentration are recommended. Trans-nasal pulmonary aerosol delivery has not been shown to increase bioaerosols generated by patients, but gas flow may disperse aerosols. Placement of a surgical or procedure mask over HFNC might reduce aerosol dispersion.
Nutrition Considerations in Neonatal Extracorporeal Life Support

Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is a life-saving therapy, but neonates who require ECLS have unique nutritional needs and require aggressive, early nutritional support. These critically ill neonates are at increased risk for long-term feeding difficulties, malnutrition, and growth failure with associated increased morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, few studies specific to this population exist. Clinical guidelines published by the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition are specific to this population and available to aid clinicians in appropriate nutrition regimens, but studies to date suggest that nutrition provision varies greatly from center to center and often is inadequate. Though enteral feedings are becoming more common, aggressive parenteral nutrition is still needed to ensure nutrition goals are met, including the goal of increased protein provision. Long-term complications, including the need for tube feedings and growth failure, are common in neonatal ECLS survivors, particularly those with congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Oral aversion with poor feeding and growth failure must be anticipated and recognized early if present. The nutritional implications associated with the development of acute kidney injury, fluid overload, or the use of continuous renal replacement therapy must be recognized. In this state-of-the-art review, we examine aspects of nutrition for neonates receiving ECLS including nutritional requirements, nutrition provision, current practices, long-term outcomes, and special population considerations.
Intimate partner violence and Its Relationship with Psychological Distress Among Older Asian Americans: Results from the California Health Interview Survey.

Abstract Objective This study aimed to examine the influence of intimate partner violence on psychological distress among a diverse sample of older Asian Americans living in California. Methods Participants in the 2007–2009 California Health and Interview Survey (CHIS) aged fifty years and older and self-reported as Asian Americans were included in the study. The primary independent variable was the history of any intimate partner violence (physical or sexual violence) since 18 years of age. The Kessler Psychological Distress Six-item Scale was used to measure the study dependent variable. A composite score (0–24) was created for psychological distress during the past 30 days as well as for the one month in the past 12 months when they were at their worst emotionally. Other covariates, including acculturation and demographic factors, were measured. Hierarchical multivariate linear regressions were conducted to examine the influence of intimate partner violence on psychological distress after adjusting for covariates. Results In the study, about 8% of older Asian Americans reported ever experiencing intimate partner violence. After controlling for level of acculturation and demographic factors, a history of intimate partner violence was significantly associated with higher levels of psychological distress for the past month (beta = 2.07, SE = 0.74, p Conclusion Intimate partner violence is a significant risk factor for distress among older Asian Americans. Culturally targeted violence prevention efforts and treatment approaches for individuals impacted by violence are needed in this highly underserved segment of older Americans.
Portrayals of Volunteering on U.S. Television: A Textual Analysis:

Volunteer managers identify challenging tasks, such as volunteer buy-in, retention, and role matching. Successful management of these tasks is influenced by how volunteers anticipate and perceive t...
“Transcanal view” computed tomography reformat: Applications for transcanal endoscopic ear surgery

Abstract Purpose Transcanal endoscopic ear surgery (TEES) is an increasingly used surgical approach for otologic surgeries, but no en face preoperative imaging format currently exists. We aim to assess the utility of a transcanal high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) reformat suitable for TEES preoperative planning. Materials and methods Preoperative HRCTs of patients with middle ear pathologies (cholesteatoma, otosclerosis, and glomus tympanicum) who underwent TEES were obtained. Axial image series were rotated and reformatted −90 or +90 degrees for left and right ear surgeries, respectively, where additional rotation along the left-right axis was performed to align the transcanal series with the plane of the external auditory canal (EAC). Quantitative measurements of middle ear structures were recorded. Consecutive transcanal reformatted sections were then reviewed to identify critical middle ear anatomy and pathology with corresponding TEES cases. Results The aforementioned methodology was used to create three transcanal view HRCTs. The mean left-right axis degree of rotation was 4.0 ± 2.2 degrees. In the cholesteatoma transcanal HRCT, areas of cholesteatoma involvement in middle ear compartments (e.g. epitympanum) and eroded ossicles were successfully identified in the corresponding case. In the otosclerosis transcanal HRCT, areas for potential otosclerotic involvement were visualized such as the round window as well as a low-hanging facial nerve. In the glomus tympanicum transcanal HRCT, the span of the glomus tympanicum was successfully visualized in addition to a high riding jugular bulb. Conclusion A transcanal HRCT reformat may aid preoperative planning for lateral skull base pathologies. This novel reformat may help highlight patient-specific anatomy.
Fast non-line-of-sight imaging with high-resolution and wide field of view using synthetic wavelength holography.

The presence of a scattering medium in the imaging path between an object and an observer is known to severely limit the visual acuity of the imaging system. We present an approach to circumvent the deleterious effects of scattering, by exploiting spectral correlations in scattered wavefronts. Our Synthetic Wavelength Holography (SWH) method is able to recover a holographic representation of hidden targets with sub-mm resolution over a nearly hemispheric angular field of view. The complete object field is recorded within 46 ms, by monitoring the scattered light return in a probe area smaller than 6 cm × 6 cm. This unique combination of attributes opens up a plethora of new Non-Line-of-Sight imaging applications ranging from medical imaging and forensics, to early-warning navigation systems and reconnaissance. Adapting the findings of this work to other wave phenomena will help unlock a wider gamut of applications beyond those envisioned in this paper. Here, the authors present Synthetic Wavelength Holography, an approach for Non-Line-of-Sight imaging. By exploiting spectral correlations in scattered light, the authors transform real world surfaces such as walls or scatterers into High-Resolution, Wide-Field-of-View imaging portals that provide holograms of objects obscured from view.
Growth, characterization, and applications of self-assembled InGaAs quantum dots

This chapter focuses on the growth, characterization, and applications of self-assembled InxGa1-xAs quantum dots (QDs) on GaAs substrates. These QDs are formed by the so-called Stranski-Krastanow (SK) transition of the highly lattice-mismatched InxGa1-xAs film. The InxGa1-xAs/GaAs system is the prototypical system in III–V growth for self-assembly of QDs, and consequently it is the most heavily studied. The lattice constant of InAs is about 7.2% larger than that of GaAs; this is the largest mismatch among AlGalnAsP alloys to GaAs or InP substrates. From a practical standpoint, the large mismatch to a common substrate means that this material system is readily accessible to most laboratories with epitaxial growth capabilities such as molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) and organometallic vapor-phase epitaxy (OMVPE). Note that since the formation of these self-assembled QDs is driven by a reduction of the strain energy, many other III-V semiconductors can conceivably be used to form QDs on a variety of different substrates. Many of these have been demonstrated, such as GaSb/GaAs [1], InP/Ga0.5In0.5P [2], and InAs/InP [3], but we will not discuss them further.
Aging, alzheimer's disease, and word recognition: A review of the recent literature

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the concepts of normal healthy aging and also compares and contrasts this with dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD). This chapter includes demographic information, operational definitions, incidence and prevalence rates of AD, and the latest, most up-to-date information pertaining to diagnosis of AD as it relates to normal, healthy aging. It discusses the recent developments pertaining to cognitive processing (word recognition in particular) in normal healthy older adults and describes the way by which this leads into the study of similar processing in AD individuals. It examines the current models of visual and auditory word recognition. This chapter also discusses the future of word recognition processing in these two populations. It is proposed in the chapter that this very simple task (word recognition) be included among other diagnostic tools for studying normal and deficit lexical information processing. The vast majority of the visual word recognition studies discussed previously has employed either the lexical decision task or the word-naming task. The particular cognitive process that is the focus of this chapter is word recognition (visual and auditory). Visual word recognition is central to several higher-level (i.e., comprehension) processes and has figured significantly in a variety of theories and models proposed to explain and account for cognitive functioning.
Thermodynamic fluctuations in the superconductor Y 1 Ba 2 Cu 3 O 9 − δ : Evidence for three-dimensional superconductivity

The rounding of resistivity near and above the superconductivity transition temperature T/sub c/, observed in the Y/sub 1/Ba/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 9-//sub delta/ superconductor, is found to be a manifestation of thermodynamic fluctuations. A quantitative agreement between the experiment and the three-dimensional (3D) Aslamazov-Larkin theory was achieved near T/sub c/ Low-field measurements of the excess diamagnetism are also in agreement with the 3D theory of Prange. These results strongly suggest that superconductivity in high-T/sub c/ copper oxides (Y/sub 1/Ba/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 9-//sub delta/) is basically 3D in nature.
A Review of “Systemic Sex Therapy”

During the 50 years since the early work of Masters and Johnson when the field of sex therapy emerged as a unique clinical discipline, both the interpretations and treatments of sexual dysfunction ...
Defective platelet activation in G alpha q deficient mice

Platelets are small disc-shaped cell fragments which undergo a rapid transformation when they encounter vascular damage. They become more spherical and extrude pseudopodia, their fibrinogen receptors are activated, causing them to aggregate, they release their granule contents, and eventually form a plug which is responsible for primary haemostasis. Activation of platelets is also implicated in the pathogenesis of unstable angina, myocardial infarction and stroke. Here we show that platelets from mice deficient in the α-subunit of the heterotrimeric guanine-nucleotide-binding protein Gq are unresponsive to a variety of physiological platelet activators. As a result, G α_q-deficient mice have increased bleeding times and are protected from collagen and adrenaline-induced thromboembolism. We conclude that G α_q is essential for the signalling processes used by different platelet activators and that it cannot be replaced by G α_i or the βγ subunits of the heterotrimeric G proteins. G α_q may thus be a new target for drugs designed to block the activation of platelets.
Phosphorylation of cellular proteins in Rous sarcoma virus-infected cells: analysis by use of anti-phosphotyrosine antibodies.

Abstract The protein substrates for the tyrosine protein kinases in cells transformed by avian sarcoma viruses were analyzed by gel electrophoresis in combination with immunoblotting or immunoprecipitation by antibodies against phosphotyrosine. We found that greater than 90% of phosphotyrosine-containing cellular proteins can be immunoprecipitated by these antibodies. The level of phosphotyrosine-containing cellular proteins detectable by this method markedly increased upon transformation with Rous sarcoma virus, and more than 20 distinct bands of such proteins were found in lysates of Rous sarcoma virus-transformed cells. Most of these phosphotyrosine-containing proteins had not been identified by other methods, and their presence appeared to correlate with morphological transformation in cells infected with various Rous sarcoma virus mutants and Y73, PRCII, and Fujinami sarcoma viruses. However, considerably different patterns were obtained with cells infected with nontransforming Rous sarcoma virus mutants that encode nonmyristylated src kinases, indicating that most substrates that correlate with transformation can only be recognized by p60v-src associated with the plasma membrane.
The Continuing Quest for Meaningful Faculty Evaluations of Residents

In this issue of JAMA Surgery, Ray et al1 report their findings at their institution, the University of Miami, Miami, Florida, on the (non)relationship betweenperformance on theAmerican Board of Surgery In-Training Examination (ABSITE) and themean scores of faculty evaluations. Several thoughts and conjectures stem from their study. First, the authors cite their use of the measures from the General Surgery Milestone Project as their base for evaluations in the New Innovations Residency Management Suite online system for the studyperiod 2011 to 2014; however, the General Surgery Milestone Project was under development in 2011 and only became effective for general surgery in July 2014. The 6-monthly residentperformance reviewand conversation with the programdirector or associate programdirector have been part of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education Surgical Residency Review Committee program requirements for decades. Second, their faculty evaluations were nonanonymous. Manyof our own faculty, citing that theywill beworkingwith residents over years, are leery of providing less than laudatory comments (constructive criticism)evenanonymouslybecause theybelieve residents can identify the sourceof the lessthan-A+ evaluation. They are not keen on nonanonymous evaluations.Ofnote,New Innovationsnowprovides away for faculty to make a “not for the resident to see” comment in a supplemental box at the bottom of the evaluation form. The residents in the studybyRay and colleaguesweremostly perceived as “A” performers (mean evaluation score, 92.24; median evaluation score, 92.65), as shown in the histogram (Figure 1A) with all annual evaluation scores in the top quartile, while ABSITE scores varied more. Finally, one can argue that the ABSITE and the faculty evaluationsmeasure different domains, not unlike the qualifying examination and the certifying examination for the American Board of Surgery, and that they complement one another rather than necessarily predict or correlate with one another. Some irascible residents ace theABSITE,while other residents with excellent professional demeanor and people skillsmaystrugglewithmultiple-choicequestions.Booksmarts and street smarts do not have an r value of 1, nor domultiplechoice question skills and the soft competencies of interpersonal and communication skills and professionalism. Should we expect an examination that measures 1 portion of 1 domain,medical knowledge, to correlatewitha subjectiveevaluation measuring 6 or 7 competency domains? Thisarticlechallengesus to improveourevaluationsof residentperformance,aworthyquestofanelusive target.Thenext major hurdle is evaluation of technical and operative skills.
Evidence of vagus nerve sprouting to innervate the urinary bladder and clitoris in a canine model of lower motoneuron lesioned bladder

Aims Complete spinal cord injury does not block perceptual responses or inferior solitary nucleus activation after genital self-stimulation, even though the vagus is not thought to innervate pelvic structures. We tested if vagus nerve endings sprout after bladder decentralization to innervate genitourinary structures in canines with decentralized bladders. Methods Four reinnervation surgeries were performed in female hounds: bilateral genitofemoral nerve transfer to pelvic nerve with vesicostomy (GNF-V) or without (GFN-NV); and left femoral nerve transfer (FNT-V and FNT-NV). After 8 months, retrograde dyes were injected into genitourinary structures. Three weeks later, at euthanasia, reinnervation was evaluated as increased detrusor pressure induced by functional electrical stimulation (FES). Controls included un-operated, sham-operated, and decentralized animals. Results Increased detrusor pressure was seen in 8/12 GFNT-V, 4/5 GFNT-NV, 5/5 FNT-V, and 4/5 FNT-NV animals after FES, but not decentralized controls. Lumbar cord segments contained cells labeled from the bladder in all nerve transfer animals with FES-induced increased detrusor pressure. Nodose ganglia cells labeled from the bladder were observed in 5/7 nerve transfer animals (1/2 GNT-NV; 4/5 FNT-V), and from the clitoris were in 6/7 nerve transfer animals (2/2 GFNT-NV; 4/5 FNT-V). Dorsal motor nucleus vagus cells labeled from the bladder were observed in 3/5 nerve transfer animals (1/2 GFNT-NV; 2/3 FNT-V), and from the clitoris in 4/5 nerve transfer animals (1/2 GFNT-NV; 3/3 FNT-V). Controls lacked this labeling. Conclusions Evidence of vagal nerve sprouting to the bladder and clitoris was observed in canines with lower motoneuron lesioned bladders. Neurourol. Urodynam. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Remembering Katy: A Reflection on Social Work with Groups’ Founding Coeditor Catherine P. Papell (1916–2013)

This article reflects on the remarkable career of one of the founders and first coeditors of Social Work with Groups. Catherine (Katy) Papell made outstanding contributions to social work—especially to social work with groups for which she was a passionate advocate. In addition to editing this journal, she was a group worker, educator, activist, historian, writer/theorist, mentor, and role model. In the process she became a beloved friend to many and will be greatly missed.
Evidence for zero-point spin deviation in K2MnF4

Abstract Evidence for a comparatively large zero-point spin deviation in the two-dimensional antiferromagnet, K 2 MnF 4 , is obtained from NMR measurements of the 19 F resonance in K 2 MnF 4 at 4.2°K and ESR measurements of the transferred hyperfine interactions in K 2 ZnF 4 :Mn 2+ .
Preoperative Prostate Specific Antigen Doubling Time is Not a Useful Predictor of Biochemical Progression After Radical Prostatectomy

Purpose: Postoperative prostate specific antigen doubling time may be used as a surrogate for prostate cancer specific mortality in patients with biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy. Less is known about the usefulness of preoperative prostate specific antigen doubling time for the initial prediction of prostatectomy outcomes.Materials and Methods: Preoperative prostate specific antigen doubling time was calculated in 1,208 men from a large prostate cancer screening study who were treated with radical prostatectomy. We examined the relationship of prostate specific antigen doubling time with tumor features and biochemical progression-free survival.Results: Overall prostate specific antigen doubling time was associated with nonorgan confined disease (OR 0.996, 95% CI 0.992–0.999, p = 0.013) but not with biochemical progression (HR 1.000, 95% CI 0.998–1.001, p = 0.66). Using previously published 18 and 36-month thresholds for prostate specific antigen doubling time there was no significant rel...
Geotechnical properties of the Cassino Beach mud.

Knowledge of the marine soils properties, together with hydrodynamic and climatic data, plays an important role for a better understanding of the dynamic behavior of sandy and muddy coasts. This paper deals with reporting and basic interpretation of two campaigns of exploration and characterization of the mud of Cassino Beach, southern Brazil, carried out during the years of 2004 and 2005. Samples were obtained by means of cores collected at some locations offshore, and were submitted to various laboratory geotechnical tests, including determination of the physical index, grain size distribution, Atterberg limits, and shear resistance by both triaxial and shear vane tests. Results confirm the existence of a very soft soil deposit offshore Cassino Beach, highly plastic, compressible, and viscous, forming an important database for further studies.