cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stemming the global obesity epidemic: what can we learn from data about social and economic trends?

Although the policy debate is only slowly moving away from the focus on individual-level psychological and social factors, the research community has largely recognized that changes in dietary and physical activity patterns are driven by changes in the environment and by the incentives that people face. Many factors have been suggested as causes of the ‘obesity epidemic’. Putting a multitude of isolated data points into a coherent picture is a challenging, but necessary, task to assess whether proposed solutions are promising or likely to lead down a blind alley. Conventional wisdom is an unreliable guide and some widely held beliefs are incorrect. Can one distinguish between important and less important behavioural changes and relate them to environmental incentives? People face trade-offs in allocating their scarce resources of time and money to best achieve their goals, including health. Studying what people are doing with their time and money is a good start towards understanding how economic incentives have altered energy intake and energy expenditure in a way that has led to weight gain. A challenging task for policy will be finding the right levers. Both economic and public health/medical perspectives play an important role in the policy process, but often approach policy questions in an incompatible way. Economics and public health perspectives can complement each other, but harnessing any synergy requires an understanding of the other perspective. Arguably the most effective community intervention would be multi-faceted and would include several goals about diet and physical activity. In practice, however, it appears that much more effort is devoted to promoting increased fruit/vegetable consumption, and exhorting individuals to increase physical activity than to environmental intervention that would make it easier for people to reduce energy intake and sedentary entertainment. Politically, it may often be more expedient to promote an increase than a decrease, but it may be far less effective.
Catecholamine induced growth of gram negative bacteria

The addition of various catecholamines to cultures of gram negative bacteria resulted in dramatic increases in growth. The ability of norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine and dopa to enhance the growth of Escherichia coli, Yersinia enterocolitica and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was observed to be dependent on the bacterium employed with each strain showing marked preference for one or more of the catecholamines. Catecholamine induced increases in growth were confirmed by one or more of the following methods: uptake of tritiated thymidine into newly synthesized DNA, changes in optical density or pour plate analysis. None of the catecholamine metabolites resulting from either oxidative deamination or catechol-O-methylation were able to effect similar increases in bacterial growth as compared to either norepinephrine, epinephrine or dopamine. Norepinephrine was consistently observed to effect the greatest increase in bacterial growth for all strains tested.
Basic visual capacities and shape discrimination after lesions of extrastriate area V4 in macaques.

lbotenic acid lesions were made in four macaque monkeys in a region of cortical area V4 that corresponds to the lower quadrant of one hemifield. For visual testing, fixation locus was monitoredwith scleral search coils and controlled behaviorally to place test stimuli either in the lesionedquadrant or in a control location in the opposite hemifield. Some basic visual capacities were slightly altered by the lesions; there was a two-fold reduction of luminance contrast sensitivity as well as red-green chromatic contrast sensitivity, both tested with stationary gratings. On the other hand, little or no loss was found when contrast sensitivity for detection or direction discrimination was tested with 10–Hz drifting gratings nor was there a reliable change in visual acuity. Hue and luminance matching were tested with a spatially more complex matching-to-sample task, but monkeys could not learn this task in the visual field locus of a V4 lesion. If previously trained at this locus, performance was not affected by the lesion. In contrast to the small effects on basic visual capabilities, performance on two form discrimination tasks was devastated by V4 lesions. The first involved discriminating the orientation of colinear groups of dots on a background of randomly placed dots. The second involved discriminating the orientation of a group of three line segments surrounded by differently oriented line segments. Some selectivity of the deficitsfor form discrimination was shown by the lack of an effect of the lesions on a global motion discrimination. These results show that while V4 lesions cause only slight disruptions of basic visual capacities, they profoundly disrupt form discriminations.
Blood group and protein polymorphism gene frequencies for seven breeds of horses in the United States.

Summary Gene frequencies at 20 blood group and protein polymorphism loci (A, C, D, K, P, Q, U, Al, Tf, Pi, Xk, Es, Gc, PGD, CA, Cat, PGM, AP, Hb and PHI) are given for seven horse breeds in the United States (Thoroughbred, Arabian, Standard bred, Morgan, Quarter Horse, Paso Fino and Peruvian Paso). These data are used to calculate that the battery of tests is at least 96% effective for recognizing incorrect paternity in these breeds. In addition to paternity testing, these tests can be applied to studies of breed relationships.
SERS-active substrate based on gap surface plasmon polaritons.

We numerically investigate the optical field enhancement supported by gap surface plasmon polaritons (GSPPs). The optical field enhancement at the edge of the nanostructures originates not only from localized surface plasmon (LSP) resonance but also from multiple scattering and coupling of GSPPs in the spacer region between two metal plates. By calculating field enhancement, we predict surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) enhancement factors (EFs) of up to 1011 for equilateral triangular nanostructures. The SERS EFs as a function of the geometry and dimension of the nanostructures are obtained by simulation. The effect of the surrounding medium on the SERS EFs is also investigated. Coupled with easy fabrication, those nanostructures are expected to find important applications in optical sensing as a SERS-active substrate.
Coupling Between Protein Level Selection and Codon Usage Optimization in the Evolution of Bacteria and Archaea

ABSTRACT The relationship between the selection affecting codon usage and selection on protein sequences of orthologous genes in diverse groups of bacteria and archaea was examined by using the Alignable Tight Genome Clusters database of prokaryote genomes. The codon usage bias is generally low, with 57.5% of the gene-specific optimal codon frequencies ( F opt ) being below 0.55. This apparent weak selection on codon usage contrasts with the strong purifying selection on amino acid sequences, with 65.8% of the gene-specific d N /d S ratios being below 0.1. For most of the genomes compared, a limited but statistically significant negative correlation between F opt and d N /d S was observed, which is indicative of a link between selection on protein sequence and selection on codon usage. The strength of the coupling between the protein level selection and codon usage bias showed a strong positive correlation with the genomic GC content. Combined with previous observations on the selection for GC-rich codons in bacteria and archaea with GC-rich genomes, these findings suggest that selection for translational fine-tuning could be an important factor in microbial evolution that drives the evolution of genome GC content away from mutational equilibrium. This type of selection is particularly pronounced in slowly evolving, “high-status” genes. A significantly stronger link between the two aspects of selection is observed in free-living bacteria than in parasitic bacteria and in genes encoding metabolic enzymes and transporters than in informational genes. These differences might reflect the special importance of translational fine-tuning for the adaptability of gene expression to environmental changes. The results of this work establish the coupling between protein level selection and selection for translational optimization as a distinct and potentially important factor in microbial evolution. IMPORTANCE Selection affects the evolution of microbial genomes at many levels, including both the structure of proteins and the regulation of their production. Here we demonstrate the coupling between the selection on protein sequences and the optimization of codon usage in a broad range of bacteria and archaea. The strength of this coupling varies over a wide range and strongly and positively correlates with the genomic GC content. The cause(s) of the evolution of high GC content is a long-standing open question, given the universal mutational bias toward AT. We propose that optimization of codon usage could be one of the key factors that determine the evolution of GC-rich genomes. This work establishes the coupling between selection at the level of protein sequence and at the level of codon choice optimization as a distinct aspect of genome evolution.
Commendably and With a Good Conscience

S ince its publication in 1913, An Introduction to the History of Medicine by Fielding Garrison has been the standard reference book for students and amateur historians with an interest in medical history. In it, I am able to find reference to only four 19th-century New Hampshire surgeons. One is the ubiquitous Nathan Smith, described as “the first all–New England surgeon” in Gordon Donaldson’s presidential address to the New England Surgical Society in 1977, who was in fact born in Rehoboth, Mass. Two, Reuben D. Mussey, born in Pelham, NH, and Dixi Crosby, born in Sandwich, NH, followed Smith as distinguished professors of surgery at the Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, NH. The fourth, Amos Twitchell, was a comparatively obscure physician and surgeon who was born in Dublin, NH, and spent most of his professional life in Keene, NH. The citation about him in Garrison’s book reads:
Astrocytes protect neurons from neurotoxic injury by serum glutamate.

Serum is used widely for culturing neurons and glial cells, and is thought to provide essential, albeit undefined, factors such as hormones, growth factors, and trace elements that promote the growth of cells in vitro. Moreover, serum can have profound effects on cell proliferation, differentiation, and cell morphology, and may even influence cell fate decisions. Despite the overall growth-promoting influence of serum on cell culture, frequent media changes have been shown to be detrimental to neuronal cultures, significantly reducing the yield of viable neurons. The reason for this loss of neurons by frequent media changes has been puzzling. We demonstrate that bovine and horse sera, the most popular serum complements for CNS cell culture, are a significant source for glutamate, supplying glutamate at concentrations sufficient to kill primary cultured hippocampal neurons. By using the bioluminescence detection method, we determined the glutamate concentration [Glu] in several batches of fetal bovine (calf) sera (FBS) to be close to 1 mM, and that of horse sera to be ∼0.3 mM. Thus 10% serum supplement to culture media results in [Glu] of 30–100 μM due to serum alone. We subsequently produced glutamate depleted media (GDM) by using primary cultures of hippocampal astrocytes to absorb glutamate from media containing 10% FBS. Within 3 h, astrocytes reduced the [Glu] in the medium from ∼90 μM to less than 1 μM. Sister cultures of hippocampal neuron that underwent frequent media changes with GDM or GDM + partial untreated media demonstrated that GDM significantly increase neuronal survival (10-fold at 21 DIV). Subsequent exposure to glutamate provided by either untreated serum or by equivalent doses of exogenous glutamate added to GDM led to dose-dependent neuronal cell death. The relative sensitivity of hippocampal neurons to glutamate increased with increasing culture age from initial ED50 values of > 100 μM (< 6 DIV) to ∼6 μM in cultures maintained for 3 weeks or longer. The relative sensitivity to exogenous glutamate was at least 2-fold higher in neurons cultured in GDM than in sister cultures maintained in media containing untreated serum. The death of neurons exposed to untreated media was blocked by the NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801. These experiments suggest that the vulnerability of neurons to media changes can be solely explained by excitotoxicity resulting from serum-borne glutamate. Moreover, we propose that use of GDM may be advantageous for culturing hippocampal neurons and may eliminate the possible selection for glutamate resistant neurons. The use of GDM could be particularly important for studies of excitotoxicity; our study predicts that the ED50 for neuronal culture with regular serum will be artificially high and may not adequately reflect the in vivo state. GLIA 22:237–248, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Asthma exacerbations · 2: Aetiology

The natural history of asthma involves relatively stable periods that are often punctuated by significant exacerbations of symptoms. There are many aetiologies that may lead to an increase in asthma severity including respiratory infection (bacterial/viral), allergens, irritants, and occupational exposures. Each trigger probably acts through different mechanisms, but a final common pathway of multicellular inflammation, enhanced bronchial responsiveness, and airflow obstruction is a likely consequence. This review discusses the most common causes of asthma exacerbations with a focus on their microbiology and immunopathogenesis. Through an understanding of underlying causes of asthma exacerbations, treatments with increased effectiveness may be developed, and it is these future developments that may directly influence the morbidity and mortality of the disease.
Pharmacy studentsʼ attitudes about social media use at five schools of pharmacy

Abstract Objective Several studies have examined the utility of using social media websites for educational purposes in pharmacy curricula; however, few studies have been published that examine studentsʼ independent use of social media websites inside the classroom. The purpose of this research was to examine the use of social media websites utilized by students at five pharmacy schools. Methods A 19-question survey was administered to students at five pharmacy schools in the Midwestern region of the United States. This survey contained four demographic questions [gender, age, year in school, and grade point average (GPA)] as well as 15-survey questions pertaining to studentsʼ use of and attitude toward social media websites. Data from the surveys were entered into a Microsoft Excel ® spreadsheet for analysis. Results Over a four-month period, 948 surveys were completed by students and returned for analysis. Facebook ® was among the most commonly used social media website, followed by Youtube ® . There were 284 students (31.6% of all students who completed the survey) who reported that they use social media websites for longer than two hours each day. The average amount of time students reported spending on social media websites during a 50-minute class period was 9.3 minutes. Additionally, 99.5% of students reported observing other students using social media websites during class on a daily basis. Conclusion Self-reported use of social media websites inside and outside the classroom is high among pharmacy students. Discussion may be warranted among educators concerning the feasibility of deterring students from using social media websites in the classroom.
Conservation of TB epitope sequences within the MTB complex and beyond, dictates the epitope specificity and associated phenotypes (MPF6P.732)

We have performed a detailed analysis of epitopes identified in an unbiased genome-wide analysis of CD4 MTB recognition using PBMCs from individuals latently infected with MTB (LTBI) or non-exposed individuals. This analysis revealed that surprisingly, some reactivity was detected in non-exposed individuals. The identified MTB epitopes could be divided into LTBI-specific, mixed reactivity and non-TB-specific categories. Reactivity of MTB sequences recognized by both LTBIs and non-exposed individuals is explained by sequence conservation in non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), and suggests environmental exposure to NTMs. Reactivity to conservation-specific peptide pools showed that non-MTB donors reacted only to pools containing MTB/NTM conserved epitopes, whereas LTBI donors showed reactivity to MTB and MTB/NTM pools, thus suggesting that a more potent diagnostic assay might be developed. Interestingly, sequences broadly conserved across bacterial genera are significantly less recognized and result in IL-10 production, which could be explained by tolerance. Additionally, we have defined a set of NTM-specific epitopes which can be utilized as a tool to characterize T cell responses to NTMs. Exposure to NTM might provide some preexisting immunity or occasional boosting of responses. Together, these results provide important insight into future vaccine design and evaluation.
Comparison of methods for automated recognition of avian nocturnal flight calls

Many species of birds in the Americas vocalize during nocturnal migration flights. Acoustic detection and classification of the calls shows potential for study of the natural history of these migrant birds. In particular, information about the species composition and number of birds involved in migration movements may be obtainable through acoustic techniques. Other methods such as radar monitoring may have capability only to assess the number, but not composition. Here the feasibility of classifying nocturnal flight calls of birds in the family Parulidae using spectragram correlation and using Gaussian mixture models of Mel frequency cepstral coefficient distributions are evaluated and compared. Tests performed on a set of recorded calls show that the techniques are complementary and may, with improvement, enable automated detection.
Characterization of the error resiliency of power grid substation devices

With the advent of modern technologies, microprocessor-based devices are used to monitor and control critical infrastructures, e.g., electric power grids, oil and gas distribution. However, the security and reliability of these microprocessor-based systems is a significant issue, since they are more susceptible to transient errors and malicious attacks. An error in one of these systems could have a cascading and catastrophic impact on the whole infrastructure. This paper explores the error resiliency of power grid substation devices. A software-implemented fault injection technique is used to induce errors/faults inside devices used in power grid substations. The goal is to test the ability of these systems to compute through errors/faults. Our results demonstrate that a single error in a substation device may render the operator in the control center unable to control the operation of a relay in the substation.
A heat transfer model for assessment of plant based roofing systems in summer conditions

This paper presents a quasi-steady state heat and mass transfer green roof model that can be incorporated in different energy simulation software or calculation procedures. The model considers heat and mass transfer processes between the sky, plants, and substrate. This paper also presents new equations to calculate (1) substrate thermal conductivity for green roofs, (2) substrate resistance to calculate green roof soil evaporation, (3) and set of compiled stomatal resistance functions to calculate plants’ transpiration. The model is validated with robust experimental data that consists of surface temperatures, conduction heat flux, convection heat flux, net radiation and evapotranspiration. The data was obtained from laboratory experiments using a new “Cold Plate” apparatus set in an environmental chamber. The validation shows that the model predicts the heat and mass transfer accurately, except that it tends to underestimate peak evapotranspiration rates.
Cryptococcus neoformans var.grubii: Separate Varietal Status for Cryptococcus neoformans Serotype A Isolates

Cryptococcus neoformans var. neoformans presently includes isolates which have been determined by the immunologic reactivity of their capsular polysaccharides to be serotype A and those which have been determined to be serotype D. However, recent analyses of the URA5 sequences and DNA fingerprinting patterns suggest significant genetic differences between the two serotypes. Therefore, we propose to recognize these genotypic distinctions, as well as previously reported phenotypic differences, by restricting C. neoformans var. neoformans to isolates which are serotype D and describing a new variety, C. neoformans var. grubii, for serotype A isolates.
Concurrent FDG Avid Nasopharyngeal Lesion and Generalized Lymphadenopathy on PET-CT Imaging Is Indicative of Lymphoma in Patients with HIV Infection

Patients with HIV infection often have generalized lymphadenopathy and/or other lymphoid proliferation and are at significantly increased risk for lymphoma. This study retrospectively evaluated the diagnostic value of concurrent nasopharyngeal lesion and lymphadenopathy on positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) with fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG PET-CT) imaging. The eligible cases were from patients with HIV infection and lymphadenopathy and referred for FDG PET-CT to evaluate lymphoma or other malignancies prior to pathological investigation. FDG PET-CT images and interpretation reports were correlated with clinical information and pathological diagnoses. Among 22 eligible patients, FDG avid nasopharyngeal lesions were incidentally noted in 7 on PET-CT imaging, and all had lymphomas diagnosed with subsequent biopsies (6 diffuse large B-cell lymphomas and 1 Hodgkin’s lymphoma). In the remaining 15 patients with adenopathy but no visible nasopharyngeal lesion or uptake on PET-CT imaging, 9 had biopsies and lymphomas were diagnosed in 4. The patients with FDG avid retroperitoneal or intra-abdominal lymphadenopathy had a greater possibility of lymphoma, compared to those with adenopathy localized only in the upper torso. Coexistent FDG avid nasopharyngeal lesion and generalized lymphadenoapthy on PET-CT imaging are indicative of a malignant lymphoma rather than benign lymphproliferative disease or nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
The role of thyroid and growth hormones in neurogenesis.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the action of hormones in development that has been studied at three levels: (1) the “fundamentalist approach” aims to demonstrate that hormones influence and participate in the control of differentiation of various target structures; it relies on procedures that involve either removal of the source of the hormone or administration of excess hormone during fetal life and subsequent observation of the effects of such treatments on postnatal stages; (2) the “analytical approach” in fetal endocrinology focuses on critical periods during embryogenesis in an attempt to identify the specific developmental processes that are subject to hormonal interference during the maturation of selected embryonic targets; (3) the third approach attempts to interpret hormone action in terms of ultimate cellular mechanisms, and aims to fit the effect of hormones on target structures with the “central doctrine of experimental biology,” according to which differentiation reflects selective protein synthesis. Hormones may intervene in these processes through differential repression or derepression of genes that code for different proteins.
Connecting and separating family and business: A relational approach to consultation

A number of theoretical orientations to family business consultation have been proposed and developed. This article acknowledges these contributions but sets out to take afresh look at the process, using the interconnected notions of relationship and context to organize the discussion. Case examples are provided as illustration.
Variation in polyp size estimation among endoscopists and impact on surveillance intervals.

Background Accurate estimation of polyp size is important because it is used to determine the surveillance interval after polypectomy. Objective To evaluate the variation and accuracy in polyp size estimation among endoscopists and the impact on surveillance intervals after polypectomy. Design Web-based survey. Participants A total of 873 members of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Interventions Participants watched video recordings of 4 polypectomies and were asked to estimate the polyp sizes. Main Outcome Measurements Proportion of participants with polyp size estimates within 20% of the correct measurement and the frequency of incorrect surveillance intervals based on inaccurate size estimates. Results Polyp size estimates were within 20% of the correct value for 1362 (48%) of 2812 estimates (range 39%-59% for the 4 polyps). Polyp size was overestimated by >20% in 889 estimates (32%, range 15%-49%) and underestimated by >20% in 561 (20%, range 4%-46%) estimates. Incorrect surveillance intervals because of overestimation or underestimation occurred in 272 (10%) of the 2812 estimates (range 5%-14%). Participants in a private practice setting overestimated the size of 3 or of all 4 polyps by >20% more often than participants in an academic setting (difference = 7%; 95% confidence interval, 1%-11%). Limitations Survey design with the use of video clips. Conclusion Substantial overestimation and underestimation of polyp size occurs with visual estimation leading to incorrect surveillance intervals in 10% of cases. Our findings support routine use of measurement tools to improve polyp size estimates.
A protocol for the management of failed alloplastic temporomandibular joint disc implants

Abstract Purpose: This is a retrospective evaluation of a protocol for management of failed alloplastic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc implants. Patients and Methods: The criteria for implant failure were defined as any one or combination of the following symptoms and signs: TMJ pain, jaw hypomobility, occlusal changes, and radiographic evidence of bone pathology related to the implant. The protocol consisted of removal of the implant, aggressive joint debridement, recontouring of the articulating surfaces, and placement of a pedicled temporalis muscle/fascia flap (TF) for joint lining. Arch bars and maxillomandibular guiding elastics were used if extensive condylar recontouring was necessary. No attempt was made to reconstruct the condyle or correct occlusal abnormalities at the time of implant removal. All 27 patients (42 joints) treated by this protocol during the study period were included for evaluation. There were 24 Proplast/Teflon (PTI) (Vitek, Inc, Houston, TX), 11 Silastic (SI) (Dow Corning, Midland, MI), and 7 Christensen Fossa implants (CFI) (TMJ Implants, Golden, CO) implants removed. Results: The mean follow-up period was 38.3 months (range, 3 to 65 months). Pain was well controlled in 24 of 27 patients (88.9%). Preoperative and postoperative mean maximal incisal opening (MIO) was 32.1 mm and 39.8 mm, respectively. Two patients (7.4%) required a second TMJ operation for persistent pain and limitation of opening. To date, 7 patients (25.9%) have required a secondary procedure (unilateral vertical ramus osteotomy, n = 1; Le Fort I osteotomy, n = 6) to correct occlusal prematurity on the operated side or bilateral open bite. The remaining patients have required no additional surgical treatment. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that a proposed protocol is an effective means of controlling pain and improving jaw motion in patients with failed alloplastic TMJ disc implants.
Ultrasound-guided nerve blocks of the pelvic limb in dogs.

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the efficacy of ultrasound‐guidance in nerve blockade of the sciatic and saphenous nerves in dogs and to determine if this technique could allow lower anaesthetic doses to be used with predictable onset and duration of effect. Study design Prospective randomized (for dose and leg) blinded experimental crossover trial with 10 day washout period. Animals Six healthy female Hound dogs aged 12.3 ± 0.5 (mean ± SD) months and weighing 18.7 ± 0.8 (mean ± SD) kg. Methods An ultrasound‐guided, perineural injection was used with saline at 0.2 mL kg−1 (Sal) or bupivacaine 0.5% at 0.05 (low dose; LD), 0.1 (medium dose; MD), or 0.2 (high dose; HD) mL kg−1, divided 2/3 at the sciatic nerve and 1/3 at the saphenous nerve. Blocks were performed using dexmedetomidine sedation with atipamezole reversal immediately after completion of the injections. Motor/proprioceptive and sensory functions were scored using a 0–8 and a 0–2 scale, respectively. Clinically relevant blocks were defined as a motor score ≥2 and sensory score ≥1. Nonparametric methods were used for statistical analysis. Results No adverse effects were noted. There was a significant difference between the treatments with bupivacaine and the saline control, but not between the three bupivacaine treatments. Success rates of clinically relevant sciatic and saphenous blocks were both 67% (CI 95% 0.22–0.96). Onset and duration of the blocks were variable; 20–160 and 20–540 minutes, respectively. Conclusion and clinical relevance None of the bupivacaine doses was significantly superior, though there was a tendency for a better block with the high bupivacaine dose. Either the technique or the doses used need further modification before this method will be useful in clinical practice.
Subscapular Abscess in a Nine-Year-Old Female Patient: A Case Report.

Case: The subscapular space is a clinically concealed anatomic space where soft-tissue abscesses can form. To our knowledge, five cases of a subscapular abscess have been reported in the past thirty-four years, so there is little evidence available to guide treatment. We present a unique case of a spontaneous, subscapular abscess due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in a pediatric host, and we describe a surgical approach for adequate debridement. Conclusion: The effective treatment of a subscapular abscess depends on an accurate, rapid diagnosis and effective surgical debridement. A modified Judet approach provides adequate access to the subscapular space for debridement.
What Subjects Teach: The Everyday Ethics of Human Research

In What Patients Teach: The Everyday Ethics of Health Care, Larry Churchill, Joseph Fanning, and David Schenk offer a critique of conventional medical ethics. They contend that ethical codes and principles neglect patients’ experiences and rely too heavily on what professionals, rather than patients, see as ethical care. I believe that many of the points Churchill and his colleagues make about medical ethics apply equally to research ethics. For the most part, research ethics has developed without serious attention to the views of people who know what it is like to be a research subject. Rather than relying on speculation about the research participant experience, research ethics and oversight ought to rely on what actual participants say about their experiences. Research ethics, as well as regulations intended to promote ethical conduct, should be based on evidence. Ethical and regulatory decisions should take into account participants’ knowledge, as well as their positions on ethical issues in research.
Background Experiences and Attitudes of Peace Activists

ABSTRACT To investigate the background and motivations of peace activists, we conducted in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews with 21 members of the American peace activist organization, Beyond War, in 1986. Most were found to have professional backgrounds, often politically conservative ones. Their average length of involvement in Beyond War was already over 3 years, but only 12 had been involved in activist causes before the peace movement. Almost all reported an experience or event that was instrumental in their becoming involved in the peace movement, such as wartime experiences or particular books, films, or speakers. Almost all saw the peace movement as a moral issue, were optimistic about the prospects for achieving peace, were highly motivated for further involvement in the movement, and reported strong support from their families.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome: The Role of Central Chemosensitivity

Clinical and basic research on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) has focused on sleep-disordered cardiorespiratory control during a critical period of brainstem maturation. Recently, some SIDS cases have been reported to have abnormalities of the arcuate nucleus of the medulla. The human arcuate nucleus is thought to be homologous to the medullary raphe in rats and cats, a widely projecting serotonergic system that is functionally linked to both respiration and sleep. Neurons of the medullary raphe are now known to be highly sensitive to respiratory acidosis in vitro and are candidates for central chemoreceptors. The relevance of changes in the arcuate nucleus to the mechanisms of death in SIDS remains controversial. However, based on this new data, a specific hypothesis is proposed here. In combination with Immaturity of respiratory control mechanisms, dysfunction of arcuate neurons may lead to a fatal exaggeration of a normal physiologic inhibition of central chemoreception during sleep. The major ele...
Relativity between Regional Dust-blowing Intensity and Circulation Dynamical Condition by Remote Sensing Analysis

The Dynamical condition of the atmospheric circulation is one of the most important influential factors for the occurrence and development of a dust storm.A new model of analyzing and forecasting dust storm is brought forward in this paper.In this model,the Dynamical condition of the circulation is indicated by the effect of the subtropical jet stream to resources of dust.The ways to extract and calculate the effect of the subtropical jet stream and the area integral intensity of dust from daily aerosol index of TOMS-EP data have been proposed,and then the relativity between the area integral intensity of dust and the Dynamical condition of the circulation has been developed too.According to the experiment consulted in this paper,the precision to extract the area integral intensity of dust(so called I) can be improved through revising the definition of I and mending its extracting method.According to the comparison among the relativity between I and the central wind velocity of the jet stream(so called V),the relativity between I and the distance from a source of dust to the center of the jet stream(so called D),and the relativity between I and the ratio of V to D(so called V/D),there is a remarkable correlation between I and V/D.According to the comparison of the relativities between I and V/D getting from several sampling plots the correlation is stable and is not influenced by the differences of such circumstances as latitude,scale and so on among those sampling plots.According to the comparison of the relativities between I and V/D in the same sampling plot and under the same dynamical condition of circulation but different seasons,I in the wet seasons is only 20% of that in the dry seasons.Moreover,there are discussions about how to forecast the occurrence of a gusty powerful dust storm by the gradient of the ratio of D/V during a time cycle and how to improve the precision of forecasting a mildly-intensifying sandstorm through taking the gradient as a supplement to the forecasting way under regularly monitoring air mass.Compared with previous researches of forecasting dust storm,there are several breakthroughs in this paper: ①the method to extract the indicators of dynamical condition of the circulation of the atmosphere from TOMS-EP data is brought forward and experimented on;②the definition of area integral intensity of dust is revised so that the precision of extracting it can be improved;③the relativity between the area integral intensity of dust and dynamical condition of the circulation is brought forward and experimented on while the influence of seasons on this relativity is also analyzed;④the dynamical condition of the circulation to cause a dust storm is analyzed.The model/method brought forward in this paper can be applied to the analysis and forecast of the occurring time and intensity of a dust storm.
Underexplored Identities: Attending to Asexuality in Therapeutic Contexts

ABSTRACTAsexuality is an identity held by individuals who have low to no sexual desire or drive which can often be mistaken for hypoactive sexual desire disorder. This article highlights the key diagnostic and clinical differences between hypoactive sexual desire disorder and asexuality. It provides key information about the various typologies of asexuality. We describe the 4 phases of treatment: joining, clarifying definitions, challenging beliefs, and assumptions of socially sanctioned behavior, and developing a common or agreed-upon definition of expression. A case vignette is included.
Three-axis Stabidiged Satellite Radiometer of Geostationary Chaned——CCD Starsenge of Visible Channd

Geostationary operational environmental three-axis stabilized satellite radiometer visible channel performs earth-observing and star sensing. In order to support image navigation and registered system, the earth-observing operation can be interrupted and the sensor transitions into starsense mode. In this mode, the sensor is commanded to observe three preselected stars, preferably in the corners of its 23°by 22° field of regard. Differences between predicted and actual star positions are used to determine the spacecraft payload attitude and to compensate for radiometer pointing errors due to orbit, attitude drift and thermal distortion. Radiometer starsense uses two-axis scan mirror, optical system and visible detectors of the radiometer.
Laboratory Assistance in the Treatment of Bacterial Infections

The microbiology laboratory can assist the clinician in the treatment of bacterial infections by isolating and identifying the responsible organisms and by determining their susceptibility to antibiotic drugs.
Telemedicine enters eye care: practical experience

1. A combination of store-and-forward technology and videoconferencing technology can be used in eye care and other medical specialties. 2. Bandwidth is a rate-limiting factor for obtaining a high-resolution, real-time image. 3. Protocols, clinical and technical, must be used to implement telemedicine in an efficient and high-quality manner.
SU-F-T-233: Evaluation of Treatment Delivery Parameters Using High Resolution ELEKTA Log Files

Purpose: As modern linacs have become more technologically advanced with the implementation of IGRT and IMRT with HDMLCs, a requirement for more elaborate tracking techniques to monitor components’ integrity is paramount. ElektaLog files are generated every 40 milliseconds, which can be analyzed to track subtle changes and provide another aspect of quality assurance. This allows for constant monitoring of fraction consistency in addition to machine reliability. With this in mind, it was the aim of the study to evaluate if ElektaLog files can be utilized for linac consistency QA. Methods: ElektaLogs were reviewed for 16 IMRT patient plans with >16 fractions. Logs were analyzed by creating fluence maps from recorded values of MLC locations, jaw locations, and dose per unit time. Fluence maps were then utilized to calculate a 2D gamma index with a 2%–2mm criteria for each fraction. ElektaLogs were also used to analyze positional errors for MLC leaves and jaws, which were used to compute an overall error for the MLC banks, Y-jaws, and X-jaws by taking the root-meansquare value of the individual recorded errors during treatment. Additionally, beam on time was calculated using the number of ElektaLog file entries within the file. Results: The average 2D gamma for all 16 patient plans was found to be 98.0±2.0%. Recorded gamma index values showed an acceptable correlation between fractions. Average RMS values for MLC leaves and the jaws resulted in a leaf variation of roughly 0.3±0.08 mm and jaw variation of about 0.15±0.04 mm, both of which fall within clinical tolerances. Conclusion: The use of ElektaLog files for day-to-day evaluation of linac integrity and patient QA can be utilized to allow for reliable analysis of system accuracy and performance.
Fat Embolism Syndrome After Femur Fracture Fixation: a Case Report

Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a multi-organ disorder with potentially serious sequelae that is commonly seen in the orthopaedic patient population after femur fractures. The major clinical features of FES include hypoxia, pulmonary dysfunction, mental status changes, petechiae, tachycardia, fever, thrombocytopenia, and anemia. Due to technological advances in supportive care and intramedullary reaming techniques, the incidence of FES has been reported as low as 0.5 percent. Here, we present a rare case of FES with cerebral manifestations. A previously healthy 24-year old nonsmoking male was admitted to our hospital after an unrestrained head-on motor vehicle collision. The patient's injuries included a left olecranon fracture and closed bilateral comminuted midshaft femur fractures. The patient went on to develop cerebral fat embolism syndrome (CFES) twelve hours after immediate bilateral intramedullary nail fixation. His symptoms included unresponsiveness, disconjugate gaze, seizures, respiratory distress, fever, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and visual changes. Head computed tomography and brain magnetic resonance imaging showed pathognomonic white-matter punctate lesions and watershed involvement. With early recognition and supportive therapy and seizure therapy, the patient went on to have complete resolution of symptoms without cognitive sequelae.
Use of Filtration to Isolate Campylobacter and Related Organisms from Stools

Previous investigators have shown that Campylobacter species other than C. jejuni (or related genera such as Arcobacter or Helicobacter) may not grow on selective media or at 42°C. Therefore, investigators have proposed either modified selective media or the use of filtration onto non-selective media followed by incubation at 35°C8. We recently completed a 32 month study comparing Campylobacter isolation on selective media to that obtained by filtration. Our results indicate that filtration is most effective when combined with incubation in an atmosphere containing hydrogen. We found that filtration was equivalent to the selective media for the isolation of C. jejuni; however, many non-C. jejuni isolates were only recovered when the filtration method was used.
Discursive Governance: Toward a Holistic Approach to Understanding a Dialogue on Race in Government

When you tell us it's all right and you unleash us and you're ready to have this conversation, we're ready to have the conversation. –Maxine Waters It's impossible to talk about the meaning of the American dream, inclusive of economic prosperity and financial success, without talking about race. California Representative Maxine Waters felt this acutely as she served on a panel at Wayne State College during the Congressional Black Caucus “For the People Job Tour” on August 16, 2011. When she spoke the words mentioned in the epigraph, Representative Waters was addressing a large audience of African Americans in Detroit who were disgruntled with the state of minority policies but were wary of attacking the first African-American president, Barack Obama. The “conversation” that Representative Waters was referring to was one in which congressional members would ask the president to address rising unemployment rates that had disproportionately affected racial and ethnic minorities from 2008 to 2011. By using the term “unleash us” she was petitioning the all-black audience not to penalize representatives like herself for speaking up for race-based issues, a dialogue that some could misconstrue as the Democratic Party turning against the president. Ignoring the irony that a black representative would need permission from black voters to discuss the problems of black unemployment with a black president, Waters made her point: the solution to bringing about economic and political change begins with a conversation about race at the highest levels of government. Interestingly, she did not ask the audience for permission to pass a policy or to amend aspects of the Constitution. She simply wanted to engage in a conversation about the importance race played in the country's economic recovery. In petitioning the audience to speak about race in government, Maxine Waters also initiated a public discourse in the black community that forced minority citizens to reflect on their roles in aiding or hindering inequality. Thus, Waters was not only trying to shape politicians’ actions with her discourse; she was also trying to alter the perspectives of the American public in general, and racial and ethnic minorities in particular. Representative Waters carried her message to Detroit, Atlanta, Miami, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Indeed, it was a message that took on two paths of influence: institutional and societal.
Response of Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes (Crotalus Atrox) to Chemical Cues of Mice (Mus Musculus) of Different Genders and Reproductive Status

Eight western diamondback rattlesnakes (Crotalus atrox) were exposed to 6 stimuli: (1) clean, unused bedding; (2) an adult male mouse; (3) an adult lactating female mouse; (4) an adult lactating female mouse with a litter; (5) 2 adult nonlactating female mice, to control for the extra surface area in Condition 4; and (6) a litter of newborn mice. All stimuli were presented in opaque plastic boxes with 18 perforations in each side; hence, chemical but not visual cues were available to the snakes. Our goal was to examine if chemical cues from rodents of different genders, lactating female rodents, and rodent litters influence predatory behavior in rattlesnakes. Results indicated that C. atrox responded to odors arising from adult mice (Mus musculus) with higher rates of tongue flicking than were seen in the control condition, but the 4 conditions involving adult mice did not differ significantly from each other. Neonatal mice did not produce consistently higher rates of tongue flicking than did the control condition.
Race, Law & Inequality, Fifty Years after the Civil Rights Era

Over the last several decades, law and social science scholars have documented persistent racial inequality in the United States. This review focuses on mechanisms to explain this persistent pattern. We begin with policy making, a mechanism fundamental to all the others. We then examine one particularly important policy, the carceral state, which can be described as the most important policy response to the Civil Rights Era. A significant body of scholarship on employment discrimination presents a site for explaining the transformation of law on the books into the law in action. Finally, we review scholarship on the persistence of segregation, concentrated neighborhood disadvantage and its attendant impact on racial inequality. We conclude with two themes that deserve special emphasis, the need for theory drawing these fields together, and our need, above all at this moment in our history, for public scholarship changing the discourse, politics, and law perpetuating racial inequality.