cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome in children presenting at Children's Hospital Lahore using nappy rash ointments.

Objectives: To study the characteristics of infants and children presenting with iatrogenic Cushing's Syndrome due to nappy rash ointments. Methods: The descriptive study was conducted at the Children's Hospital, Lahore, from April to September 2013, and comprised patients presenting with cushingoid features and history of using nappy rash ointments. Patients having Cushing's Syndrome due to causes other than iatrogenic were excluded and so were those taking oral or parenteral steroids due to skin allergy, renal or respiratory disease. Demographic data, history and examination of all patients were recorded on a proforma and results were analysed using SPSS 16. Results:Ofthetotal18patients,13(72%)weregirlsand5(27%)wereboys.Eight(44.4%)patientswereyoungerthan 6 months, 6(33.3%) were between 6 months to 1 year, while 4(22.2%) were between 12 and 18 months of age. Clobetasol alone was the most frequently used agent responsible in 13(72%) cases. Duration of use of steroid ointment was as short as 3 weeks to as much as 1 year. All the patients were using disposable diapers. Ointment was prescribed by a doctor in 5(27%) cases and self-prescribed (relative or neighbour) in 13(72%). Conclusion:Self-medication and prolonged use of potent steroid ointments are major contributors in development of iatrogenic Cushing's Syndrome in infants and children.Younger age, female gender and use of disposable diapers
Persistent Dominant Follicle Alters Pattern of Oviductal Secretory Proteins from Cows at Estrus

The experimental objective was to compare synthesis of oviductal secretory proteins of dairy cows bearing a persistent dominant follicle (PDF) versus a fresh dominant follicle (FDF) at estrus. On Day 7 after synchronized estrus (Day 0), cows received an intravaginal progesterone device and injection of prostaglandin F2a (PGF2a). On Day 9, cows received an injection of a GnRH agonist (FDF group; n 5 3) or received no injection (PDF group, n 5 3). On Day 16, all cows received PGF2a, and progesterone devices were removed. At slaughter on Day 18 or Day 19, oviducts ipsilateral and contralateral to the dominant follicle were divided into infundibulum, ampulla, and isthmus regions. Explants from oviductal regions were cultured in minimal essential medium supplemented with [3 H]leucine for 24 h. Two-dimensional fluorographs of proteins in conditioned media were analyzed by densitometry. Rate of incorporation of [3 H]leucine into macromolecules was greater in the infundibulum, ampulla, and isthmus of FDF cows (p , 0.01). Overall, intensities of radiolabeled secretory protein (P) 2 and P13 were greater for FDF than for PDF. In the ampulla, P14 was more intense for FDF while P7 was more intense for PDF. Abundance of P1 in the isthmus was greater for PDF cows. Across regions, P5, P6, P8, P9, and P11 were more intense for PDF than for FDF in the ipsilateral side. In the contralateral side, P19 was more intense for PDF than for FDF, whereas P6, P8, P9, and P11 were more intense for FDF. Differences in biosynthetic activity and in secreted oviductal proteins from cows bearing a PDF may contribute to the decrease in fertility associated with a PDF.
Multiple window non-linear time-varying spectral analysis

A non-linear multi-window method for generating a time-varying spectrum of non-stationary signals in noise is presented. The time-varying spectrum is computed from an optimally weighted average of multiple Hermite windowed spectrograms. The weights are determined using linear least squares estimation with respect to a reference time-frequency distribution. A masking operation is also used to reduce extraneous side lobes introduced by higher order Hermite windows. Several examples are provided, with performance criteria measures, to demonstrate and quantify the effectiveness of this new method.
Measurements of transient thermal strains in a disk-drive actuator

An optical apparatus was built to measure the thermal strain which manifests itself in the tilt of the actuator. Undergoing a heating-cooling, the actuator exhibits a hysterisis in the thermally-induced tilt. There are four regimes in the evolution of the thermal field in either the heating or the cooling phases. Hysteresis in tilt is caused by a reversal of the tilt direction as the actuator changes its thermal regimes. Analyses of a thermal model for actuator find that the first two regimes are dominated by heat transmission from coil to its immediate, contacting components. In contrast, it is the air conduction from coil to its adjacent components that plays a major role in the latter two regimes. >
TRMM Observations of Intraseasonal Variability in Convective Regimes over the Amazon

This study utilizes the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite precipitation radar (PR), lightning imaging sensor (LIS), and passive microwave imager (TMI) data together with ground-based lightning data to investigate the vertical structure, lightning, and rainfall characteristics of Amazonian and subtropical South American convection for three separate wet seasons. These characteristics are partitioned as a function of 850mb zonal wind direction, motivated by observations collected during the 6-week TRMM‐Large-scale Biosphere‐ Atmosphere Experiment in Amazonia (LBA) field campaign. The TRMM‐LBA field campaign observations suggest that systematic variations in Amazonian convective vertical structure, lightning, and rainfall are all linked to bimodal variations in the low-level zonal wind (e.g., easterly and westerly regimes). The more spatially and temporally comprehensive TRMM dataset used in this study extends the TRMM‐LBA observations by examining regime variability in Amazonian and South American convective structure over a continental-scale domain. On a continental scale, patterns of east and west regime 850‐700-mb winds combined with LIS lightning flash densities suggest the presence of synoptic-scale controls [e.g., intrusion of extratropical frontal systems and interaction with the South Atlantic Convergence Zone (SACZ)] on regional-scale variability in convective vertical structure. TRMM PR, TMI, and ground-based lightning data suggest that regional variability in wetseason convective structure is most evident over the southern Amazon, Mato Grosso, Altiplano, southern Brazil, and eastern coastal regions of central and southern South America. Convective vertical structure, convective rainfall rates, and lightning activity are all more pronounced during easterly (westerly) regimes over the southern Amazon and Mato Grosso (Altiplano, and southern Brazil). Importantly, when considered with case study results from TRMM‐LBA, the systematic differences in convective structure that occur as a function of regime suggest that associated regime differences may exist in the vertical distribution of diabatic heating. Hence the discrimination of convective vertical structure ‘‘regimes’’ over parts of the Amazon and vicinity based on a resolved variable such as the 850‐700-mb zonal wind direction, while far from being perfect, may have important applications to the problems of cumulus parameterization, rainfall estimation, and retrievals of latent heating over the Amazon.
The stratigraphic distribution of fossils in a tropical carbonate succession: Ordovician Bighorn Dolomite, Wyoming, USA

Stratigraphic architecture exerts a powerful influence on the vertical distribution of fossils and should be considered before biostratigraphic and paleobiologic interpretations to avoid interpretations of patterns that are actually stratigraphic artifacts. Previous numerical models of the stratigraphic distribution of fossils were developed for siliciclastic settings, which also work well for mixed carbonate-siliciclastic settings. These models are evaluated here using the Upper Ordovician Bighorn Dolomite, which was deposited on a tropical carbonate platform. The Bighorn Dolomite contains three third-order, unconformity-bounded depositional sequences, which correspond closely to the Steamboat Point, Leigh, and Horseshoe Mountain Members and are correlative with the C2, C3, and C5 sequences of the eastern United States. The Steamboat Point and Leigh Members record greenhouse conditions and are characterized by meter-scale parasequences with weakly defined flooding surfaces and minor internal facies changes. Absent in these units are well-defined parasequence sets with strong upward-deepening or upward-shallowing trends. In contrast, the Horseshoe Mountain Member reflects a transitional climate and consists of 10-m-thick, well-developed parasequences that clearly stack into upward-deepening (transgressive) and upward-shallowing (highstand) systems tracts. Fossil associations within the Bighorn Dolomite fall into five biofacies that reflect depositional environment and age. The brachiopod biofacies is found in deep subtidal facies, with the gastropod facies and crinoid biofacies in shallow subtidal facies. The dasyclad biofacies and coral biofacies are limited to the shallow subtidal facies of the Steamboat Point and Horseshoe Mountain sequences, respectively. In the greenhouse sequences, biofacies transitions are gradational, whereas they are abrupt and correspond to major flooding surfaces in the transitional climate sequences. Similarly, first and last occurrences are not clustered in the greenhouse-climate sequences, although they are elevated near the maximum flooding zone. First and last occurrences are clustered in the transitional-climate sequence where open marine facies border the sequence boundary, at major flooding surfaces, and where open marine facies are last expressed.
The Attributed-Behavior Abstraction and Synthesis Tools

Though high-level synthesis tools seem to fit nicely into the traditional top-down VLSI design methodology in which an abstract algorithmic model is transformed into a detailed register transfer level implementation, there is an important difference between filling in the details by hand and relying on a high-level synthesis tool to do so. Unlike the hand-designer, an engineer who uses a synthesis tool is not likely to be familiar with the specific register transfer level implementation. Thus, the use of high-level synthesis tools can effectively inhibit the engineer's ability to attack design problems or make informed trade-offs at either the specification or implementation level. A solution to this problem that we have developed in this research is to expose register transfer level implementation detail to the engineer, for both analysis and modification, in terms of the original algorithmic specification of the system. We introduce a new design abstraction that can uniformly represent both the input and output of high level synthesis tools. When coupled with a new type of synthesis tool, the attributed-behavior abstraction can increase the potential for high-level design space exploration by making synthesis results accessible to the engineer.
Using the circumplex model of affect to study valence and arousal ratings of emotional faces by children and adults with autism spectrum disorders

The affective circumplex model holds that emotions can be described as linear combinations of two underlying, independent neurophysiological systems (arousal, valence). Given research suggesting individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have difficulty processing emotions, we used the circumplex model to compare how individuals with ASD and typically-developing (TD) individuals respond to facial emotions. Participants (51 ASD, 80 TD) rated facial expressions along arousal and valence dimensions; we fitted closed, smooth, 2-dimensional curves to their ratings to examine overall circumplex contours. We modeled individual and group influences on parameters describing curve contours to identify differences in dimensional effects across groups. Significant main effects of diagnosis indicated the ASD-group’s ratings were constricted for the entire circumplex, suggesting range constriction across all emotions. Findings did not change when covarying for overall intelligence.
PU.1 Regulates Cathepsin S Expression in Professional APCs

Cathepsin S (CTSS) is a cysteine protease that is constitutively expressed in APCs and mediates processing of MHC class II-associated invariant chain. CTSS and the Ets family transcription factor PU.1 are highly expressed in cells of both myeloid (macrophages and dendritic cells) and lymphoid (B lymphocytes) lineages. Therefore, we hypothesized that PU.1 participates in the transcriptional regulation of CTSS in these cells. In A549 cells (a human epithelial cell line that does not express either CTSS or PU.1), the expression of PU.1 enhances CTSS promoter activity approximately 5- to 10-fold. In RAW cells (a murine macrophage-like cell line that constitutively expresses both CTSS and PU.1), the expression of a dominant-negative PU.1 protein and a short-interfering RNA PU.1 construct attenuates basal CTSS promoter activity, mRNA levels, and protein expression. EMSAs show binding of PU.1 to oligonucleotides derived from the CTSS promoter at two different Ets consensus binding elements. Mutation of these sites decreases the baseline CTSS activity in RAW cells that constitutively express PU.1. Chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments show binding of PU.1 with the CTSS promoter in this same region. Finally, the expression of PU.1, in concert with several members of the IFN regulatory factor family, enhances CTSS promoter activity beyond that achieved by PU.1 alone. These data indicate that PU.1 participates in the regulation of CTSS transcription in APCs. Thus, manipulation of PU.1 expression may directly alter the endosomal proteolytic environment in these cells.
Patterns of recurrence after sentinel lymph node biopsy for cutaneous melanoma

Abstract Background Previous sentinel lymph node (SLN) studies for cutaneous melanoma have shown that the SLN accurately reflects the nodal status of the corresponding nodal basin. However, there are few long-term studies that describe recurrence site patterns, predictors for recurrence, and overall survival and disease-free survival after SLN biopsy. Methods A retrospective review of patients over a 6-year period was performed to determine patient outcomes and the patterns of recurrence. In all cases, Tc-99 sulfur colloid along with isosulfan blue dye was injected at the primary melanoma site. After resection, the SLN was serially sectioned and evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry. Results One hundred ninety-eight patients were identified who underwent SLN biopsy for cutaneous melanoma including T1 (n = 21), T2 (n = 88), T3 (n = 75), and T4 (n = 14) primary tumors. Of these patients, 38 had a positive SLN. Of the 38 patients with a positive SLN (mean follow-up 38 months), recurrent disease was identified in 10 (26.3%) at a mean interval of 14.2 months. The site of first recurrence was distant (n = 4) and local (n = 6). Regional lymphatic basin recurrence was not identified. Of the 160 patients with a negative SLN (mean follow-up 50 months), recurrent disease was identified in 16 (10.0%) at a mean interval of 31.3 months. The site of first recurrence was systemic (n = 11), local (n = 4), and nodal (n = 1). Overall survival and disease-free survival for patients with a positive SLN at 55 months was 53.3% and 47.7% respectively, while overall survival and disease-free survival for patients with a negative SLN at 53 months was 92.2% and 87.7% respectively (P Conclusions The incidence of nodal basin recurrence after SLN biopsy was found to be 0.6%. Primary tumor depth and pathological status of the SLN are significant predictors of local and systemic recurrence. Long-term follow-up indicates that patients with a positive SLN clearly recur sooner and have decreased overall survival than those with a negative SLN.
AccountableMR: Toward accountable MapReduce systems

Traditional security techniques (e.g., authorization and encryption) have been extensively used in data management systems to provide security and privacy for many years. However, recent security breaches (e.g., WikiLeaks) showed that even if perfect access control is achieved, malicious insiders can still infer sensitive information and can misuse this sensitive information. To address this issue, accountability is introduced to deter inappropriate use of data through provision of usage control, privacy-aware interfaces, and careful monitoring and auditing. In this paper, we propose an accountable MapReduce architecture, where specific data usage is allowed after fine-grained transparent authorizations (i.e., individual record level), and such data usage are subject to effective accountability assessments by those who seek to assure privacy and security policy compliance. Our architecture enhances the MapReduce systems with the purpose concept (i.e., usage restrictions), authorize the users in fine-grained manner, and verifies the output of previously run jobs at post authorization time for detecting authorization and purpose breaches. Our empirical results show that in combination with traditional security features, AccountableMR can efficiently enhance the security and accountability of MapReduce model.
Pox Americana? Vaccinating More Emergency Doctors for Smallpox - A Law and Economics Approach to Work Conditions

Experts and government agencies believe that a smallpox attack against the U.S. is possible. Dark Winter - a simulation run in June 2001 by national security groups - concluded that a single smallpox attack would result in a viral holocaust. This is because Americans have no immunity to this disease. Smallpox has no cure and a 30% mortality rate. Federal policy fails to prepare the nation for this possibility. It identifies 500,000 workers, including emergency doctors, as bio-terror responders but only encourages vaccination. The Smallpox Emergency Personnel Protection Act tried to persuade them to be vaccinated. This disability law pays up to $262,000 for side effects, but only 39,554 workers have had the shot. An ineffective vaccination policy for emergency doctors is the greatest hole in the nation's security from this bioterror threat. They must play a critical role in identifying and isolating the disease. Yet, to avoid this infection, many unvaccinated emergency room workers in Dark Winter failed to show up for work after the attack was announced. I propose a law and economics approach to improve this aspect of national preparedness. My idea is derived from the nation's early history in hiring doctors to fight smallpox. In the 1800s, towns paid high incentives to persuade doctors to administer risky vaccinations and quarantines. Lessons are also taken from the Swine Flu vaccine program. Congress believed that nationwide inoculation was needed in 1976 to prevent great loss of life, but vaccine makers balked because of tort liability. Congress fixed this problem by substituting the U.S. for a company or doctor who provided vaccinations. This shows that a federal cap on tort liability greatly improves participation by health care providers in an emergency vaccination program. This experience provides an analogy to address the current failure to motivate bio-terror responders. Emergency doctors are burdened by soaring malpractice insurance costs. But costly insurance is causing many to retire or curtail their practice. This is depleting the supply of doctors to diagnose and isolate smallpox. In sum, experience from the 1800s shows that special incentives are needed to persuade doctors to deal with smallpox. More recent experience shows that doctors participate in risky vaccination programs when they are shielded from tort liability. Congress should therefore cap tort damages for emergency doctors who are vaccinated for smallpox.
Development of an avidin-biotin amplified enzyme-linked immunoassay for detection of DNA adducts of the human bladder carcinogen 4-aminobiphenyl.

4-Aminobiphenyl (ABP) is a known human urinary bladder carcinogen which is present in tobacco smoke and may be ubiquitous in the environment. As a biological monitor of carcinogen exposure, we have developed an immunological method for measuring the predominant carcinogen-DNA adduct of ABP, N-(deoxyguanosin-8-yl)-ABP (dG-C8-ABP). Rabbits were immunized with keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) conjugate prepared by a periodate oxidation and coupling of N-(guanosin-8-yl)-ABP (rG-C8-ABP) to the protein. The resulting polyclonal antisera was systematically characterized using dual inhibitor methodology augmented by specialized computer and software support; and a competitive avidin-biotin enzyme-linked immunoassay (A-B ELISA) assay employing polyclonal rabbit anti-KLH-(rG-C8-ABP) was developed. Under the assay conditions described, the detection limit for dG-C8-ABP was 18 fmol/well. The relative lack of reactivity toward ABP, N-acetyl-4-aminobiphenyl, N-(deoxyadenosin-8-yl)-ABP, N-(deoxyguanosin-8-yl)-2-aminofluorene and de oxy guano sine as inhibitors indicated that primary specificity involves epitopes found on the purine and biphenyl rings. Results emphasize the need to define polyclonal anti-adduct sera operationally in the context of the antigen/assay system used to evaluate it. Assay sensitivity was achieved by decreasing the amount of antibody and solid-phase antigen in the competitive portion of the assay and the use of avidin-biotin as well as enzymatic amplification. This methodology is a useful alternative to other ultrasensitive techniques and should be directly applicable to the detection of ABP-DNA adducts in exposed human populations.
Quantitative structure-property relationship modeling of beta-cyclodextrin complexation free energies.

CODESSA-PRO was used to model binding energies for 1:1 complexation systems between 218 organic guest molecules and β-cyclodextrin, using a seven-parameter equation with R 2 = 0.796 and Rcv2 = 0.779. Fragment-based TRAIL calculations gave a better fit with R 2 = 0.943 and Rcv2 = 0.848 for 195 data points in the database. The advantages and disadvantages of each approach are discussed, and it is concluded that a combination of the two approaches has much promise from a practical viewpoint.
Relative effectiveness of teaching beginning tumbling with and without an instant replay videotape recorder.

Summary.-The problem was to examine the relative effects of teaching sports skills with and without an instant replay videotape recorder (VTR). Two random groups (N = 24 and 25) of freshman students at Washington State University were taught a 12-wk. unit in beginning tumbling. The experimental group used the VTR. The posttest-only control group design was used. Evaluation of performance was made by a four-man jury. At the conclusion of the study, the group means were 87.68 and 87.38, clearly not sig nificantly different (p > .05). Most research on the effectiveness of instructional television indicates that students can learn ac least as well, and sometimes better, from televised instruction of some sort than by conventional classsroom instruction. In most of these studies, videotape recordings have simply been used as a means of having a "lesson" which can be played back to different classes. Possibly the biggest advantage of videotape over film recordings has been overlooked. Videotape recordings can be played back immediately because no development process is necessary. The immediate playback can be performed at regular speed, slow motion, and wirh stop action. Thus, the videotape can be used as a means of immediate reinforcement, or feedback, in teaching. A student can view his performance immediately after he has completed the activity and can learn from his own mistakes or successes. This type of reinforcement is particularly valuable in learning motor skills. Almost everyone has seen the instant replay used in network sports shown on television. Research, however, has been mainly limited to taped programs concerned wirh how to execute a particular skill, student teaching evaluation in physical education, and total programs pertaining to che value of activity to the individual. Penman (2) investigated the use of the VTR in teaching beginning trampoline and found no statistically significant difference in group mean scores for Ss using the VTR and those who did not. To assess possible differences in performance between the experimental and control groups with practice, a posttest-only control group design was used. The reasons for this choice are two. First, it is difficult, if not impossible, to evaluate students if they have never been exposed to the specific stunts involved in beginning tumbling. Second, it is not necessary to have a pretest if randomization is assured. Method.-From large computer-assigned sections of freshman physical education (N = 130), groups of 25 students were selected by consulting a table
Photoinduced Electron Transfer Pathways in Hydrogen-Evolving Reduced Graphene Oxide-Boosted Hybrid Nano-Bio Catalyst

Photocatalytic production of clean hydrogen fuels using water and sunlight has attracted remarkable attention due to the increasing global energy demand. Natural and synthetic dyes can be utilized to sensitize semiconductors for solar energy transformation using visible light. In this study, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and a membrane protein bacteriorhodopsin (bR) were employed as building modules to harness visible light by a Pt/TiO2 nanocatalyst. Introduction of the rGO boosts the nano-bio catalyst performance that results in hydrogen production rates of approximately 11.24 mmol of H2 (μmol protein)−1 h–1. Photoelectrochemical measurements show a 9-fold increase in photocurrent density when TiO2 electrodes were modified with rGO and bR. Electron paramagnetic resonance and transient absorption spectroscopy demonstrate an interfacial charge transfer from the photoexcited rGO to the semiconductor under visible light.
Evolution of Conformational Order During Self-Assembly of n-Alkanethiols on Hg Droplets: An Infrared Spectromicroscopy Study

This Letter describes Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy evidence for the evolution of conformational order and coverage during the formation of n-alkanethiol monolayers on microdroplets of mercury from the solution phase. At the highest coverages obtained by self-assembly, the monolayer is characterized by predominantly all-trans conformational order. For partial monolayers obtained at arbitrarily quenched incubation periods, we find a continuous evolution of the chain conformational order with monolayer coverage. Analyzing these results in light of previously reported models from X-ray scattering reveals a complex self-assembly process in which the density-dependent evolution of the chain conformational order is coupled with that of molecular orientation and density.
Localized reversible high signal intensities on diffusion-weighted MRI in hypoglycemia: A study of 70 cases.

Introduction: It is well-known that localized reversible high signal intensities in the splenium of the corpus callosum or the basal ganglia appear on diffusion-weighted MRI in the presence of hypoglycemia. The aim of this study was to clarify the incidence and significance of such high signal intensity lesions. Results: We analyzed 70 cases of hypoglycemia with consciousness disturbance referred to our outpatient office. Localized reversible high signal intensities on diffusion-weighted MRI were noted in 6 cases (8.6%). They were at the splenium of the corpus callosum in four cases (5.7%), and right frontal cortex and bilateral frontal white matter in one each. Convulsions were noted in five cases, and right hemiparesis was noted in three. None of the three cases of hemiparesis showed localized reversible high signal intensities on diffusion-weighted MRI. These lesions are reversible if the patients undergo treatment without delay. Conclusion: The significance of these lesions is still unclear. However, when a high signal intensity lesion that is not reasonable for the symptom is detected on diffusion-weighted MRI, an immediate check of the blood sugar level is mandatory.
Thielavialides A–E, Nor-Spiro-azaphilones,and a Bis-spiro-azaphilone from Thielavia sp. PA0001, An Endophytic Fungus Isolated from Aeroponically Grown Physalis alkekengi

Four new nor-spiro-azaphilones, thielavialides A–D (1– 4), a new bis-spiro-azaphilone, thielavialide E (5), together with pestafolide A (6), were isolated from the endophytic fungal strain, Thielavia sp. PA0001, occurring in the healthy leaf tissue of aeroponically grown Physalis alkekengi. The structures and relative configurations of 1–5 were established on the basis of their MS and NMR data. Possible biosynthetic pathways to thielavialides A–E (1– 5) from pestafolide A (6), some involving a Favorskii-like rearrangement, are proposed.
Synchrotron Characterization of Texture and Stress Evolution in Ag Films

Real-time in-situ synchrotron x-ray diffraction measurements were performed at the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source to characterize both the texture evolution and stresses within the individual texture components of Ag films during recrystallization. As deposited films had a nearly perfect (111) fiber texture. During isothermal anneals, stress and texture were characterized in real-time as the texture evolved into a strong (001) fiber. An Avrami analysis of the evolving texture fractions yielded very different activation energies for films on different barrier layers, suggesting different governing mechanisms were responsible for secondary grain growth. The strains were used to test a common model for texture prediction that assumes the same strain within each texture component. It was found that secondary (001) grains were able to grow primarily strain free. Selection for this strain energy minimizing orientation occurred during the nucleation process during which texture interactions play an important role. By using these real time measurements, we are able to show that driving forces for texture transformations in metal films may not be as simple previously described.
Performance and emission testing of a bi-fuel outboard spark-ignition engine

With the increasing concern about the future availability of gasoline and continuously stringent engine emission regulatory standards, the need for an alternative to gasoline as a primary engine fuel is becoming increasingly important. One proposed alternative is to use natural gas due to its availability, low cost, and generally reduced engine emissions. However, due to volumetric efficiency losses, the conversion of a standard spark-ignition engine originally operating on gasoline to run on natural gas has been shown to produce considerable power reductions. Additionally, improperly tuned natural gas conversion kits could potentially increase certain emissions’ quantities compared to gasoline. This work reports the results of an experiment designed to characterize the performance and emissions of a commonly used gasoline outboard boat motor converted to run on natural gas. Reported are the comparisons between gasoline and natural gas for the widely used engine operating parameters for gauging engine per...
100 FASTING IN CHILDREN INCREASES GHRELIN CONCENTRATIONS BUT FAILS TO RESTORE DAY/NIGHT GHRELIN VARIABILITY.

Ghrelin is a peptide produced principally in the stomach that increases appetite and participates in stimulation of growth hormone (GH) secretion. Obese children have low GH concentrations that increase after fasting. We hypothesized that an increase in ghrelin concentrations with fasting might participate in the subsequent increase in GH secretion. Subjects included 5 lean girls ages 9 to 14 years in stage I to III puberty who had body mass index standard deviation scores (BMI SDS) of -1.8 to -0.5 and delayed adolescence and/or short stature. Nine obese girls ages 6 to 11 with BMI SDS of 4.0 to 10.6 in stage I to III puberty were also studied. The lean girls and 7 of the obese girls were studied in the ad libitum fed state. Seven obese girls, including 5 studied in the fed state, were studied in the final 24 h of a 48 h fast consisting of 25% of calories estimated to be appropriate for ideal body weight. Blood was obtained every 15 min for 24 h beginning at 0800h and assayed for GH. Total ghrelin was determined in 8 samples consisting of an equal aliquot of each 15-min sample in a 3-hour period beginning at 0800h for 24 h. Lean girls had significantly greater ghrelin concentrations than did fed obese girls (0.41 ± 0.03 vs 1.6 ± 0.01 ng/mL, p
TALKING ABOUT THE TENSES AND ASPECTS OF JAPANESE

Tense and aspect in Japanese have their own characters.This article is going to give a brief comparison of tense and aspect between English and Japanese,and mainly deals with the grammatical meaning of aspect in Japanese.
A systematic review of the sinonasal microbiome in chronic rhinosinusitis.

BackgroundThe interaction between the host and microorganisms in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is poorly understood and is a growing area of interest. More recently, methodologies have been develope...
Forest service use of nonmarket valuation in fire economics: past, present, and future.

The need for monetary benefits of protecting spotted owl old-growth forest habitat from fire in the early 1990s was the catalyst for application of nonmarket valuation techniques to fire management within the US Forest Service. Two large-scale general public surveys successfully established that the contingent valuation method (CVM) could be used to estimate both state-level and national-level benefits for fire prevention and fire suppression in endangered species critical habitat. By the late 1990s large-scale wildland‐urban interface fires resulted in the need to measure what the general public would pay for prescribed burning and mechanical fuel reduction programs. To reduce the expense of conducting original surveys, we use past results to offer benefit transfer of the existing results as a plausible interim technique to provide nonmarket benefits the general public receives from fire prevention and suppression. We also offer some insights as to the next frontiers in CVM application to wildland fire.
Fostering Justification: A Case Study of Preservice Teachers, Proof-Related Tasks, and Manipulatives.

Instruction promoting reasoning and proof should be a part of K-12 mathematics teaching. Preservice teachers (PSTs) need mathematics content instruction that helps them construct valid justifications for mathematical notions and develop positive perceptions of proof. This case study describes instruction with proof-related tasks and manipulatives for middle-grades PSTs that draws on developmentally appropriate modes of argument representation. The purpose of the instruction was for PSTs to explore mathematics content through a lens of how a middle-grades teacher might use manipulatives to engage students in justifying mathematical statements in proof- related tasks. Results indicate that this instruction supported PSTs to justify mathematical ideas and that PSTs characterized their experiences positively. PSTs perceived proof in ways echoed in past literature, saw connections between the PSTs’ instruction and future middle-grades classroom instruction they might enact, and identified the role of struggle while engaging in proof-related tasks. This case study provides ideas for mathematics content instructors to develop PSTs’ understanding of mathematics through instruction that prepares them to engage their future K-12 students in proof-related tasks.
Powerful but limited immunosuppression for cardiac transplantation with cyclosporine and low-dose steroid

Cyclosporine and low-dose prednisone provide powerful but limited immunosuppression for orthotopic cardiac transplantation. Optimal long-term survival was possible only with rescue therapy using rabbit antithymocyte globulin (RATG) when myocyte necrosis could not be reversed with pulse steroid therapy. The continued absence of rejection following rescue therapy with RATG in six of the last 19 patients is responsible for the improved 79% cumulative survival rate at 9 months compared to the 61 % cumulative survival rate at 1 year for the initial 23 patients. The difference is that among the latter group, seven patients had persistent histologic rejection with focal myocyte necrosis which was not reversed with pulse therapy of steroids (hydrocortisone) or an increased dose of maintenance prednisone (30 to 40 mg/day). Three of these seven died of acute rejection within 3 months and four died between 8 and 13 months. Consequently, the cumulative survival rate of these 23 patients at 2 years was 41 %. The projected 2 year cumulative survival rate of the 19 patients should not decrease greatly, as new episodes of rejection have not occurred beyond 3 months in either group.
Isoform-specific mechanisms of α3β4*-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor modulation by the prototoxin lynx1

This study investigates-for the first time to our knowledge-the existence and mechanisms of functional interactions between the endogenous mammalian prototoxin, lynx1, and α3- and β4-subunit-containing human nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (α3β4*-nAChRs). Concatenated gene constructs were used to express precisely defined α3β4*-nAChR isoforms (α3β4)2β4-, (α3β4)2α3-, (α3β4)2α5(398D)-, and (α3β4)2α5(398N)-nAChR in Xenopus oocytes. In the presence or absence of lynx1, α3β4*-nAChR agonist responses were recorded by using 2-electrode voltage clamp and single-channel electrophysiology, whereas radioimmunolabeling measured cell-surface expression. Lynx1 reduced (α3β4)2β4-nAChR function principally by lowering cell-surface expression, whereas single-channel effects were primarily responsible for reducing (α3β4)2α3-nAChR function [decreased unitary conductance (≥50%), altered burst proportions (3-fold reduction in the proportion of long bursts), and enhanced closed dwell times (3- to 6-fold increase)]. Alterations in both cell-surface expression and single-channel properties accounted for the reduction in (α3β4)2α5-nAChR function that was mediated by lynx1. No effects were observed when α3β4*-nAChRs were coexpressed with mutated lynx1 (control). Lynx1 is expressed in the habenulopeduncular tract, where α3β4*-α5*-nAChR subtypes are critical contributors to the balance between nicotine aversion and reward. This gives our findings a high likelihood of physiologic significance. The exquisite isoform selectivity of lynx1 interactions provides new insights into the mechanisms and allosteric sites [α(-)-interface containing] by which prototoxins can modulate nAChR function.-George, A. A., Bloy, A., Miwa, J. M., Lindstrom, J. M., Lukas, R. J., Whiteaker, P. Isoform-specific mechanisms of α3β4*-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor modulation by the prototoxin lynx1.
Vendor Gains in Business Process Outsourcing

Existing research on outsourcing is focused largely on examining the effects of outsourcing on client performance. No studies have explored the value creation mechanisms and impact of outsourcing o...
Shunt freedom and clinical resolution of idiopathic intracranial hypertension after bariatric surgery in the pediatric population: report of 3 cases

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), formerly known as pseudotumor cerebri, is a disease of elevated intracranial pressure that is thought to develop due to impaired CSF absorption related to elevated venous sinus pressure in the setting of increased intraabdominal and thoracic pressures. Symptoms can be disabling and, if left untreated, can lead to permanent visual loss. Previous treatments directed toward vision preservation include CSF diversion through shunting and optic nerve sheath fenestration. Recently, attention has been turned toward surgical weight loss strategies as an alternative to shunt treatment. The authors present a report of 3 patients with adolescent-onset IIH that was treated at the authors' institution (Duke University) in whom bariatric surgery was pursued successfully. The patients had previously undergone CSF shunting at ages 12, 15, and 23 years. They were shunt dependent for a collective average of 3.3 years prior to bariatriwc surgery. All patients reported "low-pressure" or postural headaches after bariatric surgery that correlated with dramatic reduction in their weight. Two of the 3 patients had their shunts removed and continued to be shunt free 1.5 years later at last follow-up; the third patient remained shunt dependent with the pressure set at 200 mm H2O. Given the significant complications inherent to multiple shunt revisions, earlier intervention for weight loss, including bariatric surgery, in these patients might have prevented complications and the associated health care burden. The authors recommend a multidisciplinary approach for IIH treatment with early consideration for weight loss interventions in select patients.
Psoriasis and the risk of diabetes: A prospective population-based cohort study.

Background Data evaluating the impact of objectively measured psoriasis severity on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk are lacking. Objective To determine the risk for T2DM in patients with psoriasis compared with that in adults without psoriasis, stratified by categories of directly assessed body surface area (BSA) affected by psoriasis. Methods A prospective, population-based, cohort study from the United Kingdom in which 8124 adults with psoriasis and 76,599 adults without psoriasis were followed prospectively for approximately 4 years. Results There were 280 incident cases of diabetes in the psoriasis group (3.44%) and 1867 incident cases of diabetes in those without psoriasis (2.44%). After adjustment for age, sex and body mass index, the hazard ratios for development of incident diabetes were 1.21 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-1.44), 1.01 (95% CI, 0.81-1.26), and 1.64 (95% CI, 1.23-2.18) in the groups with 2% or less of their BSA affected, 3% to 10% of their BSA affected, and 10% or more of their BSA affected compared with in the groups without psoriasis, respectively ( P = .004 for trend). Worldwide, we estimate an additional 125,650 new diagnoses of T2DM per year in patients with psoriasis as compared with in those without psoriasis. Limitations Relatively short-term follow-up and exclusion of prevalence cases, which may have masked associations in patients with less extensive psoriasis. Conclusion Clinicians may measure BSA affected by psoriasis to target diabetes prevention efforts for patients with psoriasis.
On the Reduction of G-invariant Polynomials for Arbitrary Permutation Groups G

Let R be a commutative ring with 1, let R[X 1…,X n ] be the polynomial ring in X 1,…, X n over R, let G be a permutation group acting on the indeterminates and let σ1, …, σ n be the elementary symmetric polynomials.
Reasonable Doubt: A Note on ‘Neutral’ Illatives and Arguments

George Bowles and Thomas Gilbert claim that illatives such as ‘so’, ‘therefore’, and ‘hence’ convey the meaning that the premise confers upon the conclusion a probability greater than 1/2. This claim is false, for there are straightforward uses of these illatives that do not convey the meaning that the probability is greater than 1/2. In addition, because Bowles' and Gilbert's claim is false, a revision of their definition of argument is required.
Clinical characteristics and reperfusion times among patients with an isolated posterior myocardial infarction.

BACKGROUND An isolated posterior myocardial infarction (PMI) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Because physicians often fail to recognize this diagnosis, there may be delays in the timely revascularization of these patients. The present study sought to identify the clinical characteristics and reperfusion times among patients presenting with isolated PMI. METHODS We identified subjects with isolated PMI within a registry of all catheterization laboratory activations for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) from 2008 to 2012. Association between PMI and revascularization within 90 minutes was evaluated by logistic regression. RESULTS Among 318 patients who underwent revascularization for STEMI, a total of 20 (6%) had electrocardiographic evidence of an isolated PMI. Compared to non-PMI STEMI, subjects with PMI were more often female (45% vs 22%; P=.02) and less likely to have chest pain (40% vs 75%; P<.01). The median door-to-activation (25.5 min vs 12 min; P<.01), activation-to-laboratory (36.5 min vs 29 min; P<.01) and door-to-balloon times (107 min vs 72 min; P<.01) were longer among subjects with PMI, with fewer patients achieving reperfusion within 90 minutes (30% vs 71%; P<.01). After multivariable adjustment, individuals with PMI had 82% lower odds (adjusted odds ratio, 0.18; 95% confidence interval, 0.06-0.50) of achieving coronary reperfusion within 90 minutes. Door-to-activation time accounted for 96% of variation in the total revascularization time (R²=0.96; P<.0001). CONCLUSIONS Door-to-activation time was prolonged for those with PMI, resulting in longer door-to-balloon times and fewer patients revascularized within the recommended time. An isolated PMI should be considered among individuals presenting with symptoms consistent with myocardial infarction.
Fentanyl remaining in a transdermal system following three days of continuous use.

Objective:To determine whether there was a sufficient amount of fentanyl remaining in a patch that had been used continuously for 3 days to warrant establishment of disposal policies to prevent diversion of fentanyl.Design:Nine patches were applied and removed by hospice nurses after 3 days of continuous use on hospice patients with cancer. Patches were analyzed for the remaining fentanyl contents using the Coat-A-Count Fentanyl radioimmunoassay. Five 2.5-mg patches and four 10.0-mg patches were opened, solubilized with methanol, diluted with water, and analyzed in duplicate. An unused 2.5-mg patch also was analyzed as a control and showed a 94% recovery of fentanyl. A methanol blank was negative for fentanyl.Main Outcome Measures:The study determined the amount of fentanyl in milligrams remaining in a used patch. Using pharmacokinetic principles, this quantity was compared with a potential lethal dose of fentanyl.Results:Analysis showed 0.7–1.22 mg remaining in the 2.5-mg patches and 4.46–8.44 mg remaini...
Endogenous Technological Change, Entrepreneurship and Regional Growth

This chapter builds on recent research by Acs and Varga (1999) which looked into the question why some regions grow faster than others.1 In this previous project, three distinct strands of literature were examined, each with a long and distinguished history: New Economic Geography (Krugman 1991b), New Growth Theory (Romer 1990), and the New Economics of Innovation (Nelson 1993a). The aspects investigated were the unit of analysis, how endogenous growth was modelled, and the interactions between the actors and institutions in innovation processes. The authors searched for insights that would help develop a clear analytical framework which integrates economic growth, spatial interdependencies and the creation of new technology as an explicit production process to formulate production-oriented regional policies (Nijkamp and Poot 1997).