cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Metabolomic analyses for atherosclerosis, diabetes, and obesity

Insulin resistance associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obesity, and atherosclerosis is a global health problem. A portfolio of abnormalities of metabolic and vascular homeostasis accompanies T2DM and obesity, which are believed to conspire to lead to accelerated atherosclerosis and premature death. The complexity of metabolic changes in the diseases presents challenges for a full understanding of the molecular pathways contributing to the development of these diseases. The recent advent of new technologies in this area termed “Metabolomics” may aid in comprehensive metabolic analysis of these diseases. Therefore, metabolomics has been extensively applied to the metabolites of T2DM, obesity, and atherosclerosis not only for the assessment of disease development and prognosis, but also for the biomarker discovery of disease diagnosis. Herein, we summarize the recent applications of metabolomics technology and the generated datasets in the metabolic profiling of these diseases, in particular, the applications of these technologies to these diseases at the cellular, animal models, and human disease levels. In addition, we also extensively discuss the mechanisms linking the metabolic profiling in insulin resistance, T2DM, obesity, and atherosclerosis, with a particular emphasis on potential roles of increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondria dysfunctions.
Vibration and stability of two-tubes in cross-flow

Two tubes in tandem and normal to flow were studied on the basis of the unsteady-flow theory. Motion-dependent fluid forces were measured in a water channel, and the pitch-to-diameter ratio was 1.35. From the measured fluid forces, fluid damping and stiffness were calculated as a function of reduced flow velocity and several Reynolds numbers. Once the fluid-damping and fluid-stiffness coefficients are known, coupled vibration and stability of the two tubes in cross-flow can be predicted.
A Bayes procedure for estimation of current system reliability

During development of a new system, a test-analyze-and-fix program is often applied to eliminate the flaws in the first design of the system. If the corrective actions are effective, the system reliability increase. This process can be carried out for a planned time period or until a fixed reliability goal is achieved. In both cases, it is important to evaluate the system reliability during the test phase. Reliability growth can be reasonably modeled by a nonhomogeneous Poisson process with a decreasing power intensity law. For such a process, a Bayes procedure for estimating the failure intensity at the time of the last failure and of the current system reliability is analyzed for failure-truncated sampling. A large simulation study shows that the procedure, even for vague prior information, is more efficient than maximum likelihood and at least as efficient as the quasi-Bayes method of J.J. Higgins and C.P. Tsokos (1981). >
Inter‐ and intraspecific variation of stemflow production from Fagus grandifolia Ehrh. (American beech) and Liriodendron tulipifera L. (yellow poplar) in relation to bark microrelief in the eastern United States

Stemflow is a spatially concentrated hydrologic input at the tree base. Prior work has documented the differential effects of stemflow from a wide range of plant species on ecohydrological processes, such as the alteration of soil pH and spatial patterning of understory vegetation. No known work has coupled stemflow yield with high resolution measurements of bark microrelief that definitively ascribe differential stemflow yield to bark microrelief. As such, our research objectives were to: (1) correlate inter- and intraspecific variation in stemflow yield to a quantitative bark microrelief scale and (2) compare and contrast stemflow for two co-occurring deciduous species—Fagus grandifolia Ehrh. (American beech) and Liriodendron tulipifera L. (yellow poplar). Using a newly developed instrument to measure bark microrelief, namely the LaserBark™ automated tree measurement system, in combination with an 11-month stemflow database for a broadleaved deciduous forest in eastern North America, it was found that bark microrelief values significantly differed between the two species [P = 0·000, F (1,19) = 49·32]. Funneling ratios [P = 0·000, H (1, 990) = 339·20] and stemflow generation [P = 0·000, H (1, 990) = 146·75] also significantly differed between the two species. Our results indicate that bark microrelief exerts a considerable effect on stemflow yield from F. grandifolia and L. tulipifera, possibly affecting water and solute flux to the forest floor. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Testability of convergent tree circuits

The testing properties of a class of regular circuits called convergent trees are investigated. Convergent trees include such practical circuits as comparators, multiplexers, and carry-lookahead adders. The conditions for the testability of these tree circuits are derived for a functional fault model. The notion of L-testability is introduced, where the number of tests for a p-level tree is directly proportional to p, rather than exponential in p. Convergent trees that are C-testable (testable with a fixed number of tests, regardless of the tree's size) are also characterized. Two design techniques are also introduced that modify arbitrary tree modules in order to achieve Land C-testability. Finally, we apply these techniques to the design of a large carry-lookahead adder.
Prevention of Collagen-Induced Platelet Binding and Activation by Thermosensitive Nanoparticles

Peripheral artery disease is an atherosclerotic occlusion in the peripheral vasculature that is typically treated via percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. Unfortunately, deployment of the angioplasty balloon damages the endothelial layer, exposing the underlying collagen and allowing for the binding and activation of circulating platelets, which initiate an inflammatory cascade leading to eventual restenosis. Here, we report on the development of poly(NIPAm-MBA-AMPS-AAc) nanoparticles that have a collagen I-binding peptide crosslinked to their surface allowing them to bind to exposed collagen. Once bound, these particles mask the exposed collagen from circulating platelets, effectively reducing collagen-mediated platelet activation. Using collagen I-coated plates, we demonstrate that these particles are able to bind to collagen at concentrations above 0.5 mg/mL. Once bound, these particles inhibit collagen-mediated platelet activation by over 60%. Using light scattering and zeta potential measurements, we investigated the potential of the nanoparticles as a drug delivery platform. We have verified that the collagen-binding nanoparticles retain the temperature sensitivity common to poly(NIPAm)-based nanoparticles while remaining colloidally stable in aqueous environments. We also demonstrate that they are able to passively load and release anti-inflammatory cell penetrating peptides. Combined, we have developed a collagen-binding nanoparticle that has dual therapy potential, preventing collagen-mediated platelet activation while delivering water-soluble therapeutics directly to the damaged area.
SVA elements : A hominid-specific retroposon family

SVA is a composite repetitive element named after its main components, SINE, VNTR and Alu. We have identified 2762 SVA elements from the human genome draft sequence. Genomic distribution analysis indicates that the SVA elements are enriched in G+C-rich regions but have no preferences for inter- or intragenic regions. A phylogenetic analysis of the elements resulted in the recovery of six subfamilies that were named SVA_A to SVA_F. The composition, age and genomic distribution of the subfamilies have been examined. Subfamily age estimates based upon nucleotide divergence indicate that the expansion of four SVA subfamilies (SVA_A, SVA_B, SVA_C and SVA_D) began before the divergence of human, chimpanzee and gorilla, while subfamilies SVA_E and SVA_F are restricted to the human lineage. A survey of human genomic diversity associated with SVA_E and SVA_F subfamily members showed insertion polymorphism frequencies of 37.5% and 27.6%, respectively. In addition, we examined the amplification dynamics of SVA elements throughout the primate order and traced their origin back to the beginnings of hominid primate evolution, approximately 18 to 25 million years ago. This makes SVA elements the youngest family of retroposons in the primate order.
Dynamic Responses of Solid Rockets during Rapid Pressure Change

Solid rocket performance during rapid pressure excursions differs greatly from predictions based on steady-state burning rate data. Rapid pressurization (150-250 kpsi/sec) following a sudden throat area decrease in a low L* combustor produces pressure overshoots of 10% and indicated burning rate overshoots in excess of 50%. A transient internal ballistics model was developed incorporating nonsteady continuity and energy equations for the chamber, nonsteady energy equation for the propellant condensed phase, and a modified Zeldovich heat feedback function for the propellant (which for the conditions considered is known to burn with a thin quasi-steady reaction zone). Sensitivity analyses using the model indicate that accurate surface temperature and temperature sensitivity data are needed. With reasonable estimates of surface reaction zone temperature and measurements of temperature sensitivity of burning rate, good agreement between the measured and the calculated p vs t was found for a nonmetallized composite propeliant in a low L* combustor. High pressure exponent, high temperature sensitivity of burning rate, high dAJdt, low burning rate, and low L* prominently increase the dynamic effects.
Treatment of Transplant- Eligible Patients with Multiple Myeloma in 2014

Induction regimens containing a proteasome inhibitor and/or immunomodulatory agent with dexamethasone result in rapid disease control before autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). ASCT followed by consolidation and/or maintenance further improves depth of response following effective induction. Overall survival of transplant-eligible patients has been extended with modern therapeutic strategies. The optimal timing of ASCT and methods to prevent relapse following ASCT are under active investigation. Different patient populations may benefit differentially from currently available treatments.
Dynamic Bit-width Adaptation in DCT: Image Quality versus Computation Energy Trade-off

We present a dynamic bit-width adaptation scheme in DCT applications for efficient trade-off between image quality and computation energy. Based on sensitivity differences of 64 DCT coefficients, various operand bit-widths are used for different frequency components to reduce computation energy in DCT operation. Numerical results show that our DCT architecture can achieve power savings ranging from 36 % to 75% compared to normal operation
Hierarchical pore-in-pore and wire-in-wire catalysts for rechargeable Zn– and Li–air batteries with ultra-long cycle life and high cell efficiency

We report here the design of low-cost hierarchical oxygen reduction/evolution reaction (ORR/OER) catalysts that could achieve higher cell efficiency and several times longer cycle life than conventional Pt/C + IrO2 bifunctional catalysts in metal–air batteries (Zn–air and Li–air batteries).
Effect of gravity on false vacuum decay rates for O(4) symmetric bubble nucleation

The self-gravity of quantum fields is often considered to be a negligible perturbation upon a background spacetime and not of much physical interest. Its importance is determined by the ratio of the mass of the field to the Planck mass, this ratio being very small for those fields that we are most familiar in dealing with. However, it is conceivable that either in the very early Universe or even today a false-vacuum decay could occur associated with a field of appreciable mass. The effect of self-gravity upon false-vacuum decay was initially studied within the ``thin-wall'' approximation by Coleman and De Luccia. Their analysis involved the approximate solution of the coupled Euclideanized field and Einstein equations with the assumption of O(4)-symmetric bubble nucleation. In this paper we consider the range of validity of the ``thin-wall'' approximation by comparing the Coleman--De Luccia results with exact numerical results for a quartic polynomial potential. We also extend the analysis into regimes for which the ``thin-wall'' approximation is inapplicable. In the case of an initially de Sitter space decaying into Minkowski space, we find a smooth transition between the Coleman--De Luccia mode of bubble formation and the Hawking-Moss transition, wherein the entire spacetime tunnels ``at once'' to the maximum of the potential. In the case of the decay of an initially Minkowski space to an anti--de Sitter space, we find that there is a ``forbidden region'' of vacuum potential parameters for which decay is not possible. At energies far below the Planck scale, the boundary of this region is accurately described by the thin-wall prediction obtained by Coleman and De Luccia. At energies near the Planck scale, however, the actual ``forbidden region'' is significantly smaller than predicted by the thin-wall approximation; thus, vacuum decays are possible which appear to be forbidden by thin-wall calculations. In all cases, the inclusion of gravitational effects tends to thicken the wall of the bubble.
Sequential alterations in glomerular prostaglandin and thromboxane synthesis in diabetic rats: Relationship to the hyperfiltration of early diabetes☆

The present study examined the role of enhanced production of prostaglandin (PG) E2 and 6-keto-PGFla, the stable metabolite of PGI2, by glomeruli from streptozotocin diabetic rats in the mediation of hyperfiltration. Correlative measurements of inulin clearance (CIn) and glomerular production of PGE2, 6-keto PGFla and thromboxane (TX) B2 (the stable metabolite of TXA2) were made at two time points, nine to 15 days and 25 to 28 days after streptozotocin. CIn was elevated by 40% to 50% in diabetic rats studied at nine to 15 or 25 to 28 days compared to values in age-matched controls. Basal production of PGE2, 6-keto PGFla and TXA2 (as reflected by TXB2) and increases in response to A23187 were elevated in glomeruli from nine to 15-day diabetic rats compared to values in control glomeruli. Exogenous arachidonate abolished these differences. Treatment of nine-day diabetic rats with indomethacin (3 mg/kg/d) rapidly (within 24 hours) and reversibly suppressed CIn without altering CIn in control rats. Indomethacin had no effect on plasma glucose in control or diabetic rats. Treatment of nine to 15-day diabetic rats with insulin (10 U/kg/d by osmotic minipump) beginning 24 hours after streptozotocin lowered plasma gluocose to values that were not significantly different from control and prevented the rise in CIn. Treatment of diabetic rats with insulin or incubation of glomeruli from untreated diabetic rats with insulin (0.3 mU/mL) for two hours in vitro reduced basal and A23187 induced increases in PGE2, 6-keto PGFla, and TXB2 to values that were not different from those in control glomeruli. By contrast, by 25 to 28 days after streptozotocin, basal, A23187, or arachidonate induced increases in PGE2 and 6-keto PGFla were not different in glomeruli from diabetic rats compared to control rats. Moreover, indomethacin treatment did not reduce the elevated CIn of 25 to 28-day diabetic rats, implying a prostaglandin-independent mechanism in the mediation of hyperfiltration at this time. The results are consistent with a role for enhanced production of the vasodilatory prostaglandins PGE2 and PGI2 in the mediation of hyperfiltration at nine to 15 days after streptozotocin, but indicate that other factors sustain the hyperfiltration at the later time point. Basal- and A23187-induced increases in glomerular PGE2, 6-keto PGFla, and TXB2 production at nine to 15 days may be related to an increased availability of endogenous arachidonate that is suppressed by insulin.
Macro Promises of Microcredit: A Case of a local eSusu in Rural Ghana

Microcredit’s three big promises are one, to reduce poverty; two, to empower women; and three, to enhance family planning knowledge, attitudes and practices. Using a mixed-method approach, this study examines 204 women members and non-members of local eSusus in rural Ghana. Quantitative chi square analysis indicates no associations between membership in an eSusu and relative wealth; women’s autonomy family planning practices, knowledge or use and reproductive control. Meanwhile, the qualitative data shows that women members believe that eSusu are extremely useful for acquiring working capital to be reinvested in their small market ventures, and are helpful with school fee and other household expenditures.
Nationalism and patriotism in nineteenth century French socialist thought

A little dose of internationalism may estrange a man from patriotism, but a strong dose brings him back. Jean Jaures, L'Armee Nouvelle
Polycrystalline silicon-germanium thin-film transistors

The fabrication of p- and n-channel MOS thin-film transistors (TFT's) in polycrystalline silicon-germanium (poly-Si/sub 1-x/Ge/sub x/) films is described, and their electrical characteristics are presented. Various technological issues are then addressed in order to provide direction for further work in optimizing the fabrication process. The initial devices fabricated in this work exhibit well behaved electrical characteristics; enhanced performance is expected to accompany improvements in the crystallization and defect-passivation processes. Compared to a poly-Si TFT technology, an optimized poly-Si/sub 1-x/Ge/sub x/ TFT technology may ultimately be able to provide a lower-temperature, shorter-time processing capability at little expense to device performance and it is therefore promising for large-area electronics applications. >
Ecosystem responses to community disassembly.

Ecosystems around the world are experiencing unprecedented rates of extinction and species decline. The question of how community disassembly—the ongoing process of nonrandom species losses and declines—affects ecosystem functions, including those that influence persistence of other species, is addressed. The order in which species disappear from a community depends on their vulnerability to specific stressors and on traits associated with inherent susceptibility to decline. Information on species characteristics associated with vulnerability (response traits) is synthesized, and it is asked whether they are associated with characteristics that underpin significant contributions to ecosystem functioning (effect traits). Direct evidence that community disassembly affects ecosystem functioning comes from a variety of sources, ranging from documentation of long-term changes following the loss of an initial species or fragmentation of a landscape, to modeling and manipulative experiments that simulate species losses and observe their consequences. The usefulness to conservation and restoration practice of community disassembly as a concept is evaluated, and it is asked whether and how community disassembly can provide guidance about species loss order, its consequences, what each of these depends on, and whether a positive link exists between vulnerability and contribution to function—a link that would exacerbate the consequences of the ongoing extinction crisis.
Giant cell arteritis on 18F-FDG PET/CT.

Summary Purpose: We present a case of incidentally noted giant cell arteritis in a patient undergoing 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/CT imaging. The patient was originally referred to PET/CT for staging of his renal transitional cell carcinoma. Methods: The patient was injected intravenously with 370 MBq of 18F-FDG. After a 60 min uptake period, PET/CT imaging was performed from the skull base to the mid thighs. Results: A small para-aortic node in the region of the surgical bed showed increased tracer uptake of concern for malignancy. In addition, there were several non-calcified pulmonary nodules present, also concerning for malignancy. Incidentally noted was diffusely increased tracer uptake throughout the aorta and a thickened aortic wall on CT images. Diffuse tracer uptake was also present in the proximal branches of the aorta, including the carotid, iliac, femoral, and subclavian arteries. The patient had biopsy proven giant cell arteritis. Conclusion: Increased 18F-FDG uptake by the aorta on PET/CT imaging is an abnormal finding that prompts a more thorough assessment for malignancy, and also can indentify important co-morbidities in cancer patients. Evaluation of aortic uptake should be a routine practice in the interpretation of 18F-FDG PET/CT scans.
A new image motion estimation algorithm based on the EM technique

This paper focuses on the presentation and implementation of a new iterative algorithm for image motion coefficient estimation from noisy measurements based on the expectation-maximization (EM) technique. We also compare this algorithm with two other robust iterative algorithms. We represent the motion field by a (unitary) series expansion to obtain the motion coefficients, and show this characterization to have several virtues. First, an inherent property of motion, referred to as smoothness, is imposed. Second, the nonuniform motion estimation is reduced to the estimation of a few coefficients using the low-pass property of the motion. Finally, the motion estimation can be accomplished without the need for a motion model; in the events for which the motion model is completely unknown, the DCT representation is shown to be very effective in describing the true motion.
Rural-urban migration and urbanization in China: Evidence from time-series and cross-section analyses

Abstract Since 1978, China has experienced a rapid and unprecedented process of urbanization, created by the history's largest flow of rural–urban migration in the world. This article attempts (a) to assess the role of the cityward migration in China's urbanization in 1978–1999 and (b) to empirically investigate factors behind the migration boom with time-series and cross-section data. We find that (a) rural–urban migration made dominant contributions to Chinese urban population growth; (b) while moving together with the Chinese economy, the causal link runs from economic growth to migration, not vice versa; (c) interprovince migrants were encouraged by the rural–urban income gap and discouraged by their geographic distances to destinations; and (d) the amount of intraprovince migrants is positively related to rural–urban income gap and urban population in that province.
The U.S. and the EU differences in anti-terrorism efforts

While there is a consensus among developed countries over the need to combat terrorism, there are marked differences on how to accomplish that. Recently the European Union (EU) rejected a US-EU agreement on financial data exchange. Shifts in power in Europe are taking place, which contributed to this rejection. But more basically, there is a difference in views on the balance between about managing anti-terrorism efforts and respect for civil liberties, especially in data sharing. The post-WWII alliances are still strong, but Europe has a different take on many issues. In our interdependent globalized world, U.S. authorities are being required to adjust the tools and methods we can use. The sympathy and readiness to assist in the immediate aftermath of 9/11 have now faded. We should understand these differences and realize we are entering a period where being creative and factoring in the views of our allies is essential if we are to pursue successfully those who would do us harm.
Volume rendering of flow-visualization point data

A survey of two and three-dimensional flow-visualization techniques is provided. Our approach is base on applying volume rendering to flow-visualization data. Linear interpolation and B-Spline approximation is used. Several views are given for linear interpolation and B-spline approximation. Our aim is to offer researchers to "see" three-dimensional (3-D) views of multiple slices. Thus, relieving them from "mental" visualization of two-dimensional (2-D) slices. We conclude by providing suggestions for efficient volume rendering.
Ecophysiological implications of vertical migration into oxygen minimum zones for the hyperiid amphipod Phronima sedentaria

Phronima sedentaria is a hyperiid amphipod that diel migrates into a pronounced oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) in the Eastern Tropical North Pacific. In this study, oxygen consumption and lactate production were measured in P. sedentaria to estimate the aerobic and anaerobic contributions to total metabolism under conditions that mimic its day(1% oxygen, 108C) and night-time (20% oxygen, 208C) habitat. When exposed to hypoxia and low temperature, the total metabolism of P. sedentaria was depressed by 78% compared with normoxic conditions. The metabolic enzymes citrate synthase (CS) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were also measured as indicators of aerobic and anaerobic metabolism, and compared with specimens collected from the California Current and the North Atlantic to assess potential adaptations to low oxygen. LDH activity was not significantly different between regions. Significant differences in CS activity may be due to variation in food availability. Climate change is predicted to increase surface temperatures and cause the expansion of OMZs. This will result in vertical compression of the night-time range for P. sedentaria and is likely to have the same impact on other diel migrators. Habitat compression will reduce zooplankton contribution to carbon cycling and alter oceanic ecology, including predator–prey interactions.
Babies born with gastroschisis and followed up to the age of six years faced long-term morbidity and impairments.

AIM The aims of this Argentinian study were to describe and analyse the outcomes of a continuous interdisciplinary follow-up programme of patients with gastroschisis. METHODS This was a prospective, longitudinal study of babies with gastroschisis admitted from 1 November 2003 to 31 October 2014, and this paper presents results at one, three and six years of age. Matched-pairs analyses were carried out when they were one and six. RESULTS We enrolled 62 babies and assessed 52 at one year of age, 34 at three years and 17 at six years. This showed that 63% had mental health problems and 5% had recurrent wheezing. Normal outcomes at one, three and six years were growth (80%, 85% and 80%), neurology-psychomotor development index (64%, 50% and 82%), audiology (100%, 76% and 76%), vision (98%, 94% and 89%) and language (55%, 62% and 65%). The rehospitalisation rates were 30%, 0.3% and zero, and the surgical re-intervention rates were 9%, 0.3% and 12%. Matched-pairs analysis showed no significant differences between outcomes at the ages of one and six. CONCLUSION Babies born with gastroschisis were at risk for long-term morbidity and impairments, according to follow-up assessments at the ages of one, three and six years.
Out-of-Court Statements by Children: Jumping Through the Concentric Hoops of the Hearsay Rule and the Confrontation Clause

This paper was used as a handout at a presentation given April 3, 2009, in connection with a Widener Law Review Symposium. The Supreme Court has said that the confrontation right applies only to hearsay. Crawford v. Washington, 541 U.S. 36, 59 n.9 (2004) (“The Clause does not bar the use of testimonial statements for purposes other then establishing the truth of the matter asserted.”); Tennessee v. Street, 471 U.S. 409 (1985) (defendant's rights under the confrontation clause were not violated by the introduction of the confession of an accomplice for the nonhearsay purpose of rebutting respondent's testimony that his own confession was coercively derived from the accomplice's statement). In the context of children's statements, the confrontation clause would not then bar the admission of testimonial statements, for example, of a child hearsay declarant's when offered as to her credibility only to rehabilitate her after she has been impeached pursuant to FRE 806. See United States v. Stoner, 329 F.3d 859, 867 (D.C. Cir. 2003), cert. denied, 541 U.S. 1018 (2004) (discussing admissibility of prior consistent statements as to rehabilitation of a testifying witness). Cf. United States v. Lechoco, 542 F.2d 84, 89 n.6 (D.C. Cir. 1976) (prosecution's attack on credibility of defendant, on whose out-of-court statements defense psychiatrists relied, permits defendant to present supporting evidence, as by character witnesses to his good reputation for truth and veracity). Nor has the clause yet been held to bar the opinion of a testifying expert, based on inadmissible hearsay, pursuant to FRE 703. But an expert's reliance on testimonial hearsay of nontestifying declarants raises thorny questions.
Comparison between rinse and crush-and-rub sampling for aerobic bacteria recovery from broiler hatching eggs after sanitization

This study compared surface and deep eggshell aerobic bacteria recovered by the rinse and crush-and-rub sampling methods for commercial hatching eggs after treatment with sanitizers. Eggs were arranged into 5 treatments consisting of no treatment, water, and 3 sanitizers. The sanitizers were H(2)O(2), phenol, and Q(4)B (a compound chemical containing 4 quaternary ammoniums and 1 biguanide moiety). Eggs were sprayed according to treatment and allowed to dry for 1 h before sampling. To collect samples for the eggshell rinse, each egg was massaged in a plastic bag with 20 mL of saline. Eggshells were then aseptically opened and their contents were discarded before being individually crushed into 50-mL centrifuge tubes containing 20 mL of saline. Aerobic bacteria were enumerated on Petrifilm after 48 h of incubation at 37°C. Aerobic bacteria recovered (log(10) cfu/mL) from the eggshell rinse were highest and similar for the no-treatment (4.0) and water (3.7) groups, lower for the phenol (3.2) and H(2)O(2) (3.1) groups, and lowest for the Q(4)B (2.4) group. Aerobic bacteria levels with the crush-and-rub method were similar for the no-treatment (2.5) and water (2.3) groups, lower for the phenol (1.6) group, intermediate for the H(2)O(2) (1.2) group, and lowest for the Q(4)B (0.9) group. The overall correlation between the rinse and crush-and-rub sampling methods for individual egg aerobic bacteria counts was r = 0.71. The correlation within each treatment revealed the following r values: no treatment, 0.55; water, 0.72; H(2)O(2), 0.67; phenol, 0.73; and Q(4)B, 0.38. A second experiment was designed to further examine the lower aerobic bacterial levels recovered by the crush-and-rub method (for previously rinsed eggs) than the levels recovered in the initial eggshell rinse sample. Eggs were either rinsed and then crushed and rubbed, or they were only crushed and rubbed without a prior rinse. Results confirmed a significant decrease (1.5 log(10) cfu/mL) in bacteria levels between the initial rinse (4.4) and the subsequent crush and rub (2.9) for the same eggshell. For the crush-and-rub eggs with no previous rinsing, the bacteria recovery level (3.9) was not significantly different from levels for the rinse method. Therefore, either the rinse or crush-and-rub sampling methods can be used to recover similar levels of eggshell aerobic bacteria.
The Early Embryological Development of Melophagus Ovinus L., with Special Reference to the Development of the Germ Cells

The embryology of Melophagus ovinus was first studied by Leuckart (1858), who gave some excellent figures of the entire egg. He observed some of the early stages in the development of the egg such as the presence of sperms within the fertilized egg. These have been overlooked or fully ignored by his successors. Pratt in 1901, working with the same insect, also gave a description of the egg, though the earliest stage observed by him was already well along in its cleavages. Hardenberg (1929) presents a comparative study of the embryology of the entire family Pupipara. Stange (1907) in the only other developmental study on Melophagus ovinus , restricted his study to the development of imaginal discs of wings and halteres in the larva. The chief object in this investigation was to study the early development in the egg and to trace out the germ cells to their final destination, these constituting the two main points which remained unexplored in the earlier investigations upon Melophagus ovinus , and to a certain degree correcting misconceptions held by my predecessors.
Narrative quality measures in school-age children referred for language assessment

AbstractPurpose: Measures of narrative quality hold promise for clinical language assessment. However, more information is needed on the validity of such measures within clinical populations. This study examined aspects of validity for two clinically-available narrative quality measures, the Narrative Scoring Scheme and a holistic scoring method, within a diverse group of children referred for speech-language assessment.Method: Assessment records from 72 school-age children were retrospectively analysed. Narrative quality scores from oral narrative language samples were examined for expected qualities including growth with age, similarity across groups defined by gender and linguistic background and relations with other measures of language ability including norm-referenced test scores and microstructural language sample measures.Result: External validity was supported by unbiased scores across gender and linguistic background. Concurrent, criterion-related validity was supported by strong correlations be...
Bone microenvironment-mediated resistance of cancer cells to bisphosphonates and impact on bone osteocytes/stem cells

Anti-resorptive bisphosphonates (BPs) have been clinically used to prevent cancer-bone metastasis and cancer-induced bone pathologies despite the fact that the phenotypic response of the cancer-bone interactions to BP exposure is "uncharted territory". This study offers unique insights into the interplay between cancer stem cells and osteocytes/osteoblasts and mesenchymal stem cells using a three-dimensional (3D) live cancer-bone interactive model. We provide extraordinary cryptic details of the biological events that occur as a result of alendronate (ALN) treatment using 3D live cancer-bone model systems under specific bone remodeling stages. While cancer cells are susceptible to BP treatment in the absence of bone, they are totally unaffected in the presence of bone. Cancer cells colonize live bone irrespective of whether the bone is committed to bone resorption or formation and hence, cancer-bone metastasis/interactions are though to be "independent of bone remodeling stages". In our 3D live bone model systems, ALN inhibited bone resorption at the osteoclast differentiation level through effects of mineral-bound ALN on osteocytes and osteoblasts. The mineral-bound ALN rendered bone incapable of osteoblast differentiation, while cancer cells colonize the bone with striking morphological adaptations which led to a conclusion that a direct anti-cancer effect of BPs in a "live or in vivo" bone microenvironment is implausible. The above studies were complemented with mass spectrometric analysis of the media from cancer-bone organ cultures in the absence and presence of ALN. The mineral-bound ALN impacts the bone organs by limiting transformation of mesenchymal stem cells to osteoblasts and leads to diminished endosteal cell population and degenerated osteocytes within the mineralized bone matrix.
How to say What Cannot be Said: Metaphor in the Zhuangzi

I argue that it is only on the condition of a preconceptual understanding that Zhuangzi's metaphors can be cognitive. Kim-chong Chong holds that the choice between metaphors as noncognitive and cognitive is a choice between Allinson and Davidson. Chong's view of metaphors possessing multivalence is reducible to Davidson's choice, because there is no built-in parameter between multivalence and limitless valence. If Zhuangzi's metaphors were multivalent, the text would be subject to infinite interpretive viewpoints and the logical consequence of relativism. It is only if metaphors are cognitive that the text of the Zhuangzi can convey the message of transcendent freedom.
Transnational political engagement: Asian Americans’ participation in US politics and in the politics of their nation of origin

Asian Americans are in the unique position of participating in American politics as well as politics related to their nation of origin. However, there is a lack of consensus about the factors that are likely to make this group participate in homeland or US politics. We examine this question using data drawn from the 2008 National Asian American Survey (NAAS). Results suggest that Asian Americans’ participation in homeland politics is positively related to their involvement in US politics. Specifically, we find that immigrants who have prior political experience in their nation of origin and high exposure to political discussion after migration are likely to engage in activities related to the politics of both America and their nation of origin. We also find that English- and ethnic-language media use affects Asian Americans’ participation in US and homeland politics, suggesting the importance of including exposure to news media when studying immigrants’ political behaviors.
Is There an Association Between Indication for Intrauterine Balloon Tamponade and Balloon Failure

Objective Determine whether the indication for intrauterine balloon tamponade (IUBT) is associated with failure rates. Study Design Cohort study of women who underwent IUBT for postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) from 2007 to 2014. The indication was categorized as uterine atony or placental-site bleeding. Primary outcome was IUBT failure, defined as the need for uterine artery embolization or hysterectomy. Secondary outcomes were estimated blood loss (EBL) after balloon placement, transfusion of red blood cells (RBC), transfusion of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and/or cryoprecipitate, and intensive care unit (ICU) admission. Results 306 women underwent IUBT: 241 (78.8%) for uterine atony and 65 (21.2%) for placental site bleeding. Overall, 67 (21.9%) women experienced IUBT failure. The frequency of failure was similar in those with uterine atony compared with those with placental-site bleeding (21.2 vs 24.6%, p = 0.55). This finding persisted after adjusting for potential confounders (aOR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.48–1.99). Median EBL after balloon placement (190 [interquartile range, 93–375] vs 195 [interquartile range, 103–500] mL, p = 0.46), and frequencies of RBC transfusion (62.7 vs 66.2%, p = 0.60), FFP and/or cryoprecipitate transfusion (25.3 vs 33.8%, p = 0.17), and ICU admission (12.4 vs 16.9%, p = 0.35) were also similar. Conclusion IUBT was similarly effective for managing PPH from uterine atony or placental-site bleeding.
Non-Invasive Mechanical Ventilation in Children: An Overview

Hypoventilation in children during sleep and wake is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Appropriate treatment is dependent on establishing the underlying etiology of hypoventilation and treating with a noninvasive device that effectively normalizes gas exchange. This chapter provides a brief discussion of etiologies of hypoventilation, methods to assess for the presence and severity of hypoventilation, and an overview of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation treatment modalities available for children.
Development and implementation of a tablet splitting education program in a veterans affairs medical center

Tablet splitting offers several benefits to the patient and the health care system, including more specific and appropriate dosages and improved cost effectiveness. Tablet-splitting programs have been established in a variety of health care settings. The Roudebush VAMC in Indianapolis, Indiana, implemented a pilot program to educate patients about tablet splitting. Each patient was evaluated for ability to split tablets; eligible patients received comprehensive education on tablet splitting. Twelve pharmacy clerkship students from two universities carried out the program over seven nonconsecutive weeks. One hundred and three patient encounters were documented. The total cost savings from the interventions was $7986.32. A more comprehensive program has the potential to save $413,000 annually. The essential role of pharmacy students in this program demonstrated their importance in the provision of health care and patient education.
Low abundance of colonic butyrate-producing bacteria in HIV infection is associated with microbial translocation and immune activation.

Author(s): Dillon, Stephanie M; Kibbie, Jon; Lee, Eric J; Guo, Kejun; Santiago, Mario L; Austin, Gregory L; Gianella, Sara; Landay, Alan L; Donovan, Andrew M; Frank, Daniel N; McCARTER, Martin D; Wilson, Cara C | Abstract: ObjectiveGut microbial translocation is a major driving force behind chronic immune activation during HIV-1 infection. HIV-1-related intestinal dysbiosis, including increases in mucosa-associated pathobionts, may influence microbial translocation and contribute to mucosal and systemic inflammation. Thus, it is critical to understand the mechanisms by which gut microbes and their metabolic products, such as butyrate, influence immune cell function during HIV-1 infection.DesignA cross-sectional study was performed to compare the relative abundance of butyrate-producing bacterial (BPB) species in colonic biopsies and stool of untreated, chronic HIV-1-infected (n = 18) and HIV-1-uninfected (n = 14) study participants. The effect of exogenously added butyrate on gut T-cell activation and HIV-1 infection was evaluated using an ex-vivo human intestinal cell culture model.MethodsSpecies were identified in 16S ribosomal RNA sequence datasets. Ex-vivo isolated lamina propria mononuclear cells were infected with C-C chemokine receptor type 5-tropic HIV-1Bal, cultured with enteric gram-negative bacteria and a range of butyrate doses, and lamina propria T-cell activation and HIV-1 infection levels measured.ResultsRelative abundance of total BPB and specifically of Roseburia intestinalis, were lower in colonic mucosa of HIV-1-infected versus HIV-1-uninfected individuals. In HIV-1-infected study participants, R. intestinalis relative abundance inversely correlated with systemic indicators of microbial translocation, immune activation, and vascular inflammation. Exogenous butyrate suppressed enteric gram-negative bacteria-driven lamina propria T-cell activation and HIV-1 infection levels in vitro.ConclusionReductions in mucosal butyrate from diminished colonic BPB may exacerbate pathobiont-driven gut T-cell activation and HIV replication, thereby contributing to HIV-associated mucosal pathogenesis.
Latina/o Parent Organizing for Educational Justice: An Ethnographic Account of Community Building and Radical Healing

This article describes a parent organizing effort with Latina/o immigrant parents in a large, high-poverty, racially and linguistically diverse urban school district. Drawing from ethnographic rese...
Monte-Carlo Simulation in Modeling for Hierarchical Generalized Linear Mixed Models

It is common to encounter data that have a hierarchical or nested structure. Examples include patients within hospitals within cities, students within classes within schools, factories within industries within states, or families within neighborhoods within census tracts. These structures have become increasingly common in recent times and include variability at each level which must be taken into account. Hierarchical models which account for the variability at each level of the hierarchy, allow for the cluster effects at different levels to be analyzed within the models (Shahian et al. in Ann Thorac Surg, 72(6):2155–2168, 2001). This chapter discusses how the information from different levels can be used to produce a subject-specific model. However, there are often cases when these models do not fit as additional random intercepts and random slopes are added to the model. This addition of additional parameters often leads to non-convergence. We present a simulation study as we explore the cases in these hierarchical models which often lead to non-convergence. We also used the 2011 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey data as an illustration.
Cultural orientation, parental nurturance, and parent-child conflict among Asian American parents in New York City

Abstract Although a growing number of studies in recent years have examined the cultural values and practices as well as family relationships of Asian Americans, few have focused on Asian Americans in the East Coast, the most populous and fastest growing place of Asian Americans in the U.S. Using data from the Study of Asian American Families with a sample of 572 Asian American parents from 11 ethnic subgroups in New York City, this study examined whether parents' cultural orientations (e.g., cultural values and practices on family priority and parental authority) were associated with parental nurturance (e.g., attitudes and behaviors related to warmth, affection, and support toward their children) and conflict with their children. The results showed that parents who endorsed and engaged more toward their own cultural values and practices tended to have less parental nurturance and more conflicts with their children. These associations varied across the ethnic subgroups of Asian American parents. The mediation analyses found that parental nurturance played a significant buffering role in helping parents who adhered strongly to their own cultural values and practices reduce the conflicts with their children. The findings provide implications for culturally sensitive services and interventions, including helping Asian American immigrant parents increase intercultural interactions and parenting skills.
Pixel super-resolution in coherent microscopy systems through out-of-focus imaging

We introduce a wide-field pixel super-resolution method that uses a stack of out-of-focus images to provide better utilization of the space-bandwidth-product of an objective-lens and improve the throughput of lens-based coherent imaging and holography systems.
Treatment of the Adult Chiari I Malformation

Successful surgery for Chiari I malformation in adults requires ­appropriate patient selection, the identification of the optimal procedure for the specific circumstances of that patient, and careful execution of the surgery. The goal of surgery is to reestablish the unrestricted, pulsatile movement of the cerebrospinal fluid in the subarachnoid space at the craniovertebral junction. This is accomplished almost universally by removing the posterior rim of the foramen magnum and the posterior arch of C1, opening the dura, and placing a pericranial graft to expand the dural space at that level.
Retinal microvascular signs and incidence of abdominal aortic aneurysm: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study.

ABSTRACTPurpose: To test the hypothesis that retinal microvascular abnormalities known to predict other cardiovascular diseases are associated prospectively with risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm. ...
Psychosocial risk factors and processes impeding adaptive capacities and contributing to psychosocial distress among later-life Egyptian immigrants

This qualitative study explores and describes the transactional and cumulative psychosocial stressors that later-life Egyptian immigrants encounter upon coming to the United States, and how they im...
Preoperative assessment of the child with neuromuscular scoliosis

The medical preoperative assessment of the child with neuromuscular scoliosis under consideration for spinal fusion is presented. Issues of the respiratory, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and hematologic systems as well as nutrition are reviewed. An outline of preoperative screening tests and a discussion of common medical issues should help the surgeon prepare the child with neuromuscular scoliosis for spinal reconstructive surgery.