cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Perinatal Factors Associated with Cardiovascular Disease Risk among Preschool-Age Children in the United States: An Analysis of 1999–2008 NHANES Data

We examined the relationships between selected perinatal and early infancy factors (maternal smoking during pregnancy, infant low birthweight, breastfeeding, and early introduction of solid foods [<6 months of age] and increased BMI [≥85th, ≥95th percentiles for age, sex]), waist circumference (WC), C-reactive protein (CRP), triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, non-high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and decreased HDL cholesterol during early childhood. The population-based sample included 3,644 3-to-6-year-old Non-Hispanic White (NHW), Hispanic, and Non-Hispanic Black (NHB) children who participated in the 1999-2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys. Analysis showed that breastfeeding was significantly protective against early childhood obesity (OR 0.43, 95% CI, 0.27-0.69) and the highest quintile for WC (OR 0.58, 95% CI, 0.37-0.32) among NHW, and against the highest quintile of non-HDL cholesterol among NHB (OR 0.56, 95% CI, 0.32-0.98). Additionally, NHW children were significantly more likely to be obese (OR 2.22, 95% CI 1.30-3.78) and have higher CRP levels (OR 1.63, 95% CI, 1.05-2.51) if their mothers smoked during pregnancy. These results support the observation that breastfeeding may be protective against early childhood obesity while maternal smoking during pregnancy is a risk factor for obesity and increased CRP levels among NHW young children.
Social anxiety and computer-mediated communication during initial interactions: Implications for the hyperpersonal perspective

The study examined how the reduced nonverbal cues characteristic of computer-mediated communication (CMC) moderated the potentially negative interpersonal outcomes of social anxiety in initial interactions. Hypotheses predicted that CMC would mitigate the extent to which social anxiety caused interpersonal perceptions of anxiety and that CMC would attenuate the negative association between one's social anxiety and one's partner's conversational satisfaction. A sample (N=206) of undergraduate students were paired in unacquainted dyads and then engaged in initial interaction conversations in either a face-to-face (FtF) or CMC context. The researchers measured social anxiety before the conversation and a number of outcomes after the conversation. The results revealed that CMC is a significant contingent condition to the association between social anxiety and one's partner's perception of this anxiety and a contingent condition to the association between social anxiety and one's partner's conversational satisfaction.
Sediment concentration versus water discharge during single hydrologic events in rivers

Abstract Relations between sediment concentration (C) and water discharge (Q) for a hydrologic event, such as a flood, are studied qualitatively by analyzing “smoothed” temporal graphs (discharge and concentration vs. time) in terms of mode, spread, and skewness. Comparing C Q ratios at a given discharge on the rising and falling limbs of the discharge hydrograph provides a consistent, reliable method for categorizing C–Q relations. Five common classes of such relations are single-valued (straight or curved), clockwise loop, counterclockwise loop, single-valued plus a loop, and figure eight. Temporal-graph mode and skewness influence the type of relation, whereas temporal-graph spread affects the details of the particular C–Q relation (its graphical breadth, shape, orientation, and plotted location). Field examples of the various types of relations are given, including varieties that heretofore have received little attention, such as the figure eight. Explanations for each type of C–Q relation are discussed.
Culture conditions for induction of green plants from barley microspores by anther culture methods.

With barley a large variation in frequency of plant formation from microspores of spikes from the same plant has been observed. The highest frequency of plant formation was obtained when culturing anthers in the dark on a high Ficoll medium containing 2,4-D and kinetin to induce proembryo (or callus) formation. Subsequently the proembryos or calli were cultured in dim light on a high Ficoll-high sugar medium containing IBA and kinetin. Finally the embryos were transferred to a starch agar medium. A maximum of 13 green plants were obtained from microspores of a single anther.
Decreased expression of annexin A1 is correlated with breast cancer development and progression as determined by a tissue microarray analysis.

Summary Annexin A1 (ANXA1) is a calcium- and phospholipid-binding protein and a known mediator of glucocorticoid-regulated inflammatory responses. Using a combined multiple high-throughput approach, we recently identified a reduced expression of ANXA1 in human breast cancer. The finding was confirmed at the gene level by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and at the protein level by immunohistochemical staining of normal, benign, and malignant breast tissues. In this study, we constructed and used a high-density human breast cancer tissue microarray to characterize the expressional pattern of ANXA1 according to histopathologies. The tissue microarray contains 1158 informative breast tissue cores of different histologies including normal tissues, hyperplasia, in situ and invasive tumors, and lymph node metastases. Our results showed that there was a significant decrease in glandular expression of ANXA1 in ductal carcinoma in situ and invasive ductal carcinoma compared with either normal breast tissue or hyperplasia ( P
Variability in presence-absence scoring of AP PCR fingerprints affects computer matching of bacterial isolates

Sources of variation in scoring bands in arbitrarily primed PCR (AP PCR) fingerprints of bacterial isolates were identified, and their effect on computer matching of fingerprints was determined. E. coli and five Salmonella serotypes were fingerprinted. PCR reactions and gel electrophoresis analysis of PCR products were replicated, including comparisons in the same gel and in different gels. Bands in the images were assigned by two different people on a presence–absence basis. Variations in scoring the images occurred at all levels, and prevented correct identification of isolates. E. coli was distinguished from Salmonella, but discrimination among different Salmonella serotypes and between two isolates of the same serotype was poor. Our results suggest that computer analysis of AP PCR fingerprints scored on a presence–absence basis may not correctly match isolates. Side-by-side visual comparison of isolates is recommended.
DYMONDS computer platform for smart grids

In this paper we propose an actor-oriented computer platform, which is a natural outgrowth of our Dynamic Monitoring and Decision Systems (DYMONDS) modeling, communications and control paradigm for smart grids. We summarize this approach which is physics-based and explain how its actor-oriented structure can support a possible multi-level computer platform. By combining principles of model-based Ptolemy II computer platform with these models, we sketch out the basis for implementing a DYMONDS-based computer platform for smart grids. Both the dynamic internal models of polymorphic actors, as well as the system model of computing and communication protocols relating their external interfaces are described. Perhaps, most important is the fact that the proposed computer platform can evolve dynamically as operating conditions and status of actors vary, and, longer-term, as different components are added to the physical system and different smarts are being embedded, rather than having to re-program every time as the physical system changes; this is because new semantics are introduced at the component interaction level rather than at the programming language level.
Impact of antioxidants on the ability of phenolic phytochemicals to kill HCT116 colon cancer cells

AbstractCertain phenolic phytochemicals can kill cancer cells. Possible interference from antioxidants is a concern, and this issue has not been studied appreciably. Therefore, the effect of ascorbate and N-acetylcysteine on the ability of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and curcumin to kill HCT116 colon cancer cells was examined. EGCG and curcumin each caused DNA damage in the cells. The DNA-damaging ability of EGCG, but not curcumin, was hindered by either ascorbate or NAC, which was also shown in HT29 and SW480 colon cancer cells. Also, iron chelators (deferoxamine and 2,2’-dipyridyl) inhibited the ability of EGCG, but not curcumin, to cause damage to the DNA in HCT116 cells. Interestingly, curcumin, but not EGCG, increased the expression of growth arrest and DNA damage-inducible gene 153 and also heme oxygenase-1, and this stress gene upregulation by curcumin was antioxidant-insensitive. With prolonged incubation of HCT116 cells with either EGCG or curcumin, cell shrinkage, membrane blebbing, apoptoti...
Foreign Language Anxiety and Heritage Students of Spanish: A Quantitative Study.

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate if heritage students of Spanish experience foreign language anxiety and, if so, what levels of anxiety they experience. The data were collected using the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS). A total of 413 students (209 heritage students and 204 nonheritage students) participated in this study. In general, the mean anxiety scores for the heritage students were lower than the mean anxiety scores for the nonheritage students, although there were a few instances when the heritage students actually had higher anxiety scores. In addition, the heritage students in this study reported lower anxiety scores than other college-level students from previous studies reported in the literature that also used the FLCAS.
Integrating DfM components into a cohesive design-to-silicon solution (Invited Paper)

Two primary tracks of DfM, one originating from physical design characterization, the other from low-k 1 lithography, are described. Examples of specific DfM efforts are given and potentially conflicting layout optimization goals are pointed out. The need for an integrated DfM solution than ties together currently parallel DfM efforts of increasing sophistication and layout impact is identified and a novel DfM-enabling design flow is introduced.
Sensitivity to dietary obesity linked to a locus on Chromosome 15 in a CAST/Ei × C57BL/6J F2 intercross

Details of a new model of diet-dependent polygenic obesity are presented. CAST/Ei (Mus m. castaneus) mice remain lean after 12 weeks on a high-fat (32 kcal% fat) diet, while C57BL/ 6J mice become obese. The genes responsible for the obesity segregate in an F2 population derived from an intercross between CAST/Ei and C57BL/6J mice. Quantitative trait analysis, with simple sequence length polymorphisms (SSLPs) at loci previously linked to rodent obesities, identified a quantitative trait locus (QTL) on Chromosome (Chr) 15, accounting for approximately 9% of the variance in adiposity and 14% of the variance in mesenteric depot size. This locus appears to be at the same location as the dietary obesity-3 (Do3) locus controlling body fat content, which was previously identified in an F2 population derived from an SWR/J × AKR/J cross. This is also at the same location as the multigenic obesity-4 (Mob4) locus found in BSB mice, which display spontaneous polygenic obesity. Suggestive linkage also was found at loci close to the single gene mutations A y on Chr 2 and tub on Chr 7.
Projections of neurons in the ventromedial medulla to pontine catecholamine cell groups involved in the modulation of nociception

Stimulation of neurons in the nucleus raphe magnus (RMg) or the adjacent gigantocellular nucleus pars alpha (Giα) and paragigantocellular nucleus (PGi) produces antinociception which is partially mediated by bulbospinal noradrenergic neurons. Since no norepinephrine-containing neurons are located in either the RMg or the Giα/PGi, it is likely that neurons located in these nuclei have axonal connections with the spinally-projecting catecholamine neurons located in the A5, A6 (locus coeruleus), or A7 catecholamine cell groups. To provide evidence for such connections, the anterograde tracer, Phaseolus vulgaris-leucoagglutinin (PHA-L), was injected into the RMg or Giα/PGi and labeled axons were identified near catecholamine-containing neurons labeled with dopamine-β-hydroxylase-immunoreactivity (DβH-ir). A dense field of PHA-L-positive terminals was seen within the A7 cell group which was mainly ipsilateral to PHA-L injections made into either the RMg or the Giα/PGi. Many PHA-L-positive terminals were closely apposed to DβH-ir A7 perikarya or proximal dendrites. A modest number of terminals was seen within the A5 and LC cell groups. In the second experiment, a unilateral injection of the retrograde tracer, Fluoro-Gold, was made into the A7 cell group and brainstem sections were processed for serotonin (5-HT) immunocytochemistry. Many neurons retrogradely labeled with Fluoro-Gold were seen in the RMg, but a much larger number were found in the Giα/PGi. Less than 5% of these Fluoro-Gold-labeled cells contained 5-HT-immunoreactivity. The results of these experiments indicate that the RMg and Giα/PGi have a substantial population of non-serotonergic neurons which project to the A7 noradrenergic cell group.
The state of the art in interplanetary Internet

Developments in space technologies are enabling the realization of deep space scientific missions such as Mars exploration. Interplanetary (IPN) Internet is expected to be the next step in the design and development of deep space networks as the Internet in the space. However, there are significant challenges to be addressed for the realization of this objective. This article captures the current state of the art and open research challenges, and intends to motivate researchers around the world to tackle these challenging problems and help realize the IPN Internet.
Ascending stairway modeling from dense depth imagery for traversability analysis

Localization and modeling of stairways by mobile robots can enable multi-floor exploration for those platforms capable of stair traversal. Existing approaches focus on either stairway detection or traversal, but do not address these problems in the context of path planning for the autonomous exploration of multi-floor buildings. We propose a system for detecting and modeling ascending stairways while performing simultaneous localization and mapping, such that the traversability of each stairway can be assessed by estimating its physical properties. The long-term objective of our approach is to enable exploration of multiple floors of a building by allowing stairways to be considered during path planning as traversable portals to new frontiers. We design a generative model of a stairway as a single object. We localize these models with respect to the map, and estimate the dimensions of the stairway as a whole, as well as its steps. With these estimates, a robot can determine if the stairway is traversable based on its climbing capabilities. Our system consists of two parts: a computationally efficient detector that leverages geometric cues from dense depth imagery to detect sets of ascending stairs, and a stairway modeler that uses multiple detections to infer the location and parameters of a stairway that is discovered during exploration. We demonstrate the performance of this system when deployed on several mobile platforms using a Microsoft Kinect sensor.
Orally Active Multi-Functional Antioxidants Are Neuroprotective in a Rat Model of Light-Induced Retinal Damage

Background Progression of age-related macular degeneration has been linked to iron dysregulation and oxidative stress that induce apoptosis of neural retinal cells. Since both antioxidants and chelating agents have been reported to reduce the progression of retinal lesions associated with AMD in experimental animals, the present study evaluates the ability of multi-functional antioxidants containing functional groups that can independently chelate redox metals and quench free radicals to protect the retina against light-induced retinal degeneration, a rat model of dry atrophic AMD.
Respiratory Monitoring: Recent Developments in Automatic Monitoring of Gas Concentration, Flow, Pressure, and Temperature

Abstract Advances in instrumentation and programming techniques have resulted in the expansion of a previously reported 12-bed respiratory gas-concentration monitoring system to now include automatic calibrated measurements of bidirectional airflow, airway pressure, and airway temperature as well as other vital signs (rectal temperature, arterial blood pressure, central venous pressure, and heart rate). The more expensive hardware, including a programmable digital desk calculator, interfacing, a mass spectrometer, signal conditioners, and a major portion of the airflow instrumentation, are time-shared to provide an acceptable per-bed cost. Calculated and edited measurements of pulmonary mechanics (tidal and minute volume, mean and end-expiratory airway pressures, compliance, resistance, respiratory rate) and gas exchange (oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, respiratory exchange ratio, alveolar P O 2 , and alveolar P CO 2 ) are printed out and stored in an extended memory. The memory is accessed by a second calculator, which prints out summaries of data every 8 hours, correlates off-line blood gases and other measurements with automatically acquired data, and communicates with a commercial time-sharing system for more sophisticated data processing.
Sterol−Polyamine Conjugates as Synthetic Ionophores

A design principle has been devised for the construction of sterol−polyamine conjugates that function as synthetic ionophores. For feasibility studies, a prototype (1) was synthesized from 3β-hydroxybisnor-5-cholenic acid via sequential activation of its carboxylic acid moiety, condensation with spermine, and sulfation of the 3β-hydroxyl group. Closely related analogues were also prepared in which the terminal amine group was acetylated (2), the 3β-hydroxyl group was left unsulfated (3), and each of the two remaining secondary amines was replaced with oxygen atoms (4). Incorporation of each conjugate into egg phosphatidylglycerol-based vesicles showed that 1 functions as an ionophore by discharging a pH difference across the vesicle membrane, but that 2, 3, and 4 do not. A kinetic analysis of the ionophoric activity of 1 has provided evidence that the majority of the conjugate exists as membrane-bound monomer and that dimers are the active species that are responsible for ion transport. Comparative experi...
Chemical and physical characteristics of cellulose insulation particulates, and evaluation of potential acute pulmonary toxicity.

Background During installation of cellulose insulation (CI) in new and older houses, significant quantities of airborne material are generated. This study characterized the chemical and physical properties, and potential acute pulmonary toxicity of CI. Methods CI from four manufacturers was analyzed for inorganic additives and trace element impurities. Aerosols were generated and size fractionated. The number and size of fibrous and nonfibrous particles in the respirable fractions were determined. Respirable CI particulates were intratracheally instilled in rats (5 mg/kg) to evaluate potential pulmonary toxicity. Results CI samples were similar in composition with small differences due primarily to fire retardants. Less than 0.1% of CI was respirable and contained few fibers. Acute exposure to CI caused transient inflammation in the lungs and increased 4-hydroxyproline. Microscopic evaluation revealed a minimal to mild, non-progressing granulomatous pneumonitis. Conclusions Low concentrations of respirable particles were found in CI aerosols. Particles consisted primarily of fire retardants with few fibers, and caused mild pulmonary toxicity in rats. Am. J. Ind. Med. 46:554–569, 2004. Published 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Pharmacology of cytarabine given as a continuous infusion followed by mitoxantrone with and without amsacrine/etoposide as reinduction chemotherapy for relapsed or refractory pediatric acute myeloid leukemia.

Background The outcome of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who relapse or fail to achieve an initial remission has been dismal. Procedure Fifteen pediatric patients with AML, 4 relapsed and 11 primary refractory, were reinduced with a loading bolus of 0.5 g/m2 cytarabine (ara-C) followed immediately by a continuous infusion of ara-C (130 mg/m2/day) for 72 hours, followed with four daily doses (12 mg/m2/day) of mitoxantrone. Eight of 15 patients received an additional course of amsacrine and etoposide. Results Ten of 15 (66%) achieved complete response (CR) and 3 achieved partial response (PR) (20%), with an objective response rate of 86% after ara-C/mitoxantrone. One patient died before disease assessment, and one had no response after ara-C/mitoxantrone. Pharmacokinetic studies of ara-C and ara-U were performed in 13 of 15 patients. A steady-state (Css) ara-C concentration was achieved at 2 hours after the bolus ara-C dose and was maintained up to 72 hours. The Css plasma concentrations of ara-C and ara-U averaged 10.33 ± 0.81 μM and 139.14 ± 17.8 μM, respectively. Also, cellular pharmacokinetic studies of ara-CTP were performed on circulating leukemic cells from 5 patients. Four patients who had a significant increase ( P = 0.0041) in their Css ara-CTP concentrations achieved CR, whereas one patient with an insignificant increase achieved PR. Conclusions Continuous infusion of ara-C followed by mitoxantrone is an active reinduction regimen in refractory or relapsed pediatric AML patients. The addition of amsacrine and etoposide did not improve the remission induction rate. Further studies are needed in a larger patient population to confirm these observations. Med. Pediatr. Oncol. 31:475–482, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Theory of Photodetachment near Fine-Structure Thresholds

High-resolution measurements of ${\mathrm{S}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ photodetachment near threshold are interpreted on the basis of an intermediate $[{p}^{4}(^{3}P)+e(l=0)]^{2}P$ complex which dissociates into $\mathrm{jj}$-coupled constituents. The $e\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{S}$ interaction is represented by doublet and quartet scattering lengths ${a}_{d}$ and ${a}_{q}$. Relative cross sections are calculated in terms of electron energies, and of ${a}_{d}$ and ${a}_{q}$. Thereby we generalize to a multichannel process the scattering-length theory of cross sections near $s$-wave thresholds. Many features of the experimental data are accounted for. Predictions are made on the spin-polarization effects of circularly polarized light.
Interactions between Ni and La2O3 in Ni/La2O3 catalysts prepared using different Ni precursors

The role of the anion (NO3−or Cl−), used in the preparation via impregnation of unreduced Ni/La2O3catalysts, in the interactions between Ni and La2O3was investigated using XRD, TPR, and ESCA experiments. The following results have been obtained: In the 20 wt% Ni/La2O3prepared using Ni(NO3)2as precursor, LaNiO3and La(OH)3were the only compounds identified by XRD in the sample calcined in O2, and La2NiO4and La(OH)3were the only compounds identified in the sample calcined in He. At lower Ni contents, the La2O3phase was additionally identified. For the 20 wt% Ni/La2O3prepared using Ni chloride as precursor, LaOCl was the only compound detected by XRD; no phase containing Ni was identified by XRD in the samples calcined in O2or He. At lower Ni chloride contents, LaNiO3was additionally detected in the sample calcined in O2and La2NiO4in that calcined in He. A comparison between the XRD spectra and the TPR curves suggested the presence of amorphous NiO in the samples based on Ni chloride. It is also shown that the Ni precursor employed in the preparation of the catalyst plays a role in the CO2reforming of CH4. During the CO2reforming of methane, the unreduced Ni/La2O3catalysts, based on Ni nitrate, had a high initial CO yield but a low time stability; in contrast, the unreduced Ni/La2O3catalysts, based on chloride, had a high stability. A possible explanation of this behavior, based on ESCA analysis and on the reaction between CH4and catalysts, is provided.
Research integrity: the experience of a doubting Thomas.

The sensational “reactome array” paper published in Science in 2009 was investigated in Spain by the Ethics Committee of Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (CSIC) after Science issued an editorial expression of concern. The paper was retracted in 2010 because of “skepticism” due to “errors” in chemistry. The “errors” were so profound that many readers expressed doubt that they were really errors, but part of an elaborate hoax. I conducted a forensic analysis of mass spectrometry data in the paper’s Supporting Online Material (SOM) and was able to prove that thousands of data values were in fact fabricated. The SOM contains signatures of improper extensive spreadsheet manipulations of incorrect atomic and molecular mass values as well as impossibly repetitive deviations of found molecular mass values from their expected values. No evidence of real mass spectrometry data was detected. Both CSIC and Science have been content to retract the paper without acknowledging the fabrications or assigning responsibility for them. Neither CSIC nor Science has expressed interest in having an independent investigation determining how the paper came to be written, reviewed and published. Their weak response to this episode is a daunting signal that there is an impending crisis in research integrity and science journalism.
Concentration Fluctuations, Local Order, and the Collective Structure of Polymer Nanocomposites

A combined theory−experiment analysis of adsorbing polymer mediated structural reorganization of silica nanoparticles in equilibrated and miscible poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and polytetrahydrofuran (PTHF) nanocomposites is presented. Quantitative comparison of microscopic liquid state theory calculations with small-angle X-ray scattering experiments demonstrate the theoretical approach properly accounts for the effects of adsorbed polymer layers on nanoparticle concentration fluctuations over all length scales for a wide range of volume fractions and interfacial cohesion strengths. The mixture total packing fraction is increased as particles are added to the polymer melt in order to account for equation-of-state effects which are important at very high filler loadings. A distinctive microphase separation like peak in the collective polymer structure factor is predicted. Nanoparticle potential of mean force calculations suggest a criterion for the onset of depletion or bridging induced kinetic gelation whi...
Developmental anomalies at the thoracic outlet: An analysis of 200 consecutive cases

Anatomic observations were made during 200 consecutive transaxillary surgical procedures performed in 175 patients because of unremitting signs and symptoms of nerve or vascular compression at the thoracic outlet. There were 160 cases of brachial plexus compression and 40 cases of arterial or venous occlusion. In 132 (66%) of these cases, single or multiple abnormalities were recognized that represented developmental variations previously described in anatomic dissections or in embryologic studies. There were 17 cases of cervical rib or first thoracic rib abnormalities and 20 supernumerary scalene muscles. Developmental variations were identified in 86 scalene and 39 subclavius muscles or their insertions. Comparisons revealed a higher percentage of developmental anomalies in this group of patients than in consecutive anatomic investigations reported in unselected populations. This information was interpreted in light of recent embryologic studies and histochemical and morphometric ultrastructural studies of scalene muscle. The preponderance of evidence suggests that neurovascular compression in the region of the thoracic outlet derives from a combination of these factors: predisposing morphologic variations, structural modifications conditioned by functional requirements, and changes in fiber type or myosin isoform consequent to trauma. The correlation of clinical syndrome with morphologic characteristics alone was significant only for the Paget-Schroetter syndrome.
Studies of HIV-1 latency in an ex vivo model that uses primary central memory T cells

HIV-1 latency is considered the last hurdle toward viral eradication in the presence of antiretroviral therapy. Studies of viral latency in vivo are complicated by the low frequency of latently infected cells found in HIV-1 patients. To be able to study the signaling pathways and viral determinants of latency and reactivation, we have developed a novel method that generates high numbers of latently HIV-1 infected cells, which are derived from human primary CD4+ T lymphocytes. This method allows for the study of different aspects of HIV-1 latency, such as the transcription factors needed for viral reactivation and the signaling pathways involved. In this review, we describe in detail an experimental protocol for the generation of HIV-1 latency using human primary CD4+ T cells. We also present the salient points of other latency models in the field, along with key findings arising from each model.
Aortic Coarctation: Anesthetic Considerations:

Aortic coarctation is a congenital narrowing of the descend ing thoracic aorta at or near the connection of the ductus arteriosus. It is the sixth most common congenital heart disease in the pediatric age group and constitutes 8% of congenital heart anomalies. Delivering anesthesia care to children undergoing coarctation repair is challenging be cause the anesthetist and the surgeon do not have the immediate safety net provided by cardiopulmonary bypass. Once the aorta is cross-clamped and the repair begins, the anesthesiologist is at the mercy of the surgeon's technical skill and speed and the child's ability to tolerate aortic cross- clamping. This article addresses the etiology and morphol ogy of this lesion. In addition, the perioperative anesthetic management principles relating to coarctation repair are discussed.
The foundations of nonequilibrium statistical mechanics, II

Abstract In the second part of this paper we complete the program set forth in the first part (1). We continue the discussion of the kinetic expansions of the Liouville equation. Finally, we introduce and discuss the “superkinetic” expansions. The numbering of sections continues that of the previous paper.
Response to Letter Regarding Article, “Comparative Effectiveness of Carotid Revascularization Therapies: Evidence From a National Hospital Discharge Database”

We appreciate Dr Giri’s1 interest in our work and the opportunity to clarify the purpose, strengths and limitations, and validity of the methodologies used in our article. We sought to determine whether the outcomes achieved in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of carotid revascularization therapies are recapitulated in the real-world clinical setting. Central to this investigation is the concern that the presumed clinical equipoise and apparent equivalence in outcomes after carotid angioplasty and stenting (CAS) compared with carotid endarterectomy may be a manifestation of the operator experience screening in the CAS arm of prior RCTs.2,3 Such screening bias confounds the generalizability of RCTs to the large number of patients who do not undergo carotid revascularization at larger tertiary care centers. To study real-world outcomes on a national scale, we used the Premier perspective national hospital registry. Such databases provide extremely useful epidemiological data and complement RCTs by …
Turbulent mixing of coaxial jets between hydrogen and air

Abstract Hydrogen-air mixing in coaxial jets was investigated using a one-equation model to simulate the velocity scale of turbulence. Combining the density fluctuation with other fluctuating components to define the eddy exchange coefficients, a set of empirical constants was derived for the closure of the partial differential equations that govern the mixing process of heterogeneous fluids. Comparing the numerical results with available experimental data, good agreements were obtained for distributions in velocity, shear stress, enthalpy, and species concentration along both axial and radial directions. The density fluctuation in hydrogen-air mixing, which is very difficult to measure, can be treated by the same method for compressible flows in a homogeneous fluid, provided that the kinetic energy of turbulence is considered simultaneously with all other governing equations.
Metabolic syndrome increases risk for pulmonary embolism after hip and knee arthroplasty.

Results Of 7282 patients, 107 (1.47%) were diagnosed with PE. The incidence of PE in patients with 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 MetS components was respectively 0.85% (16/1888; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.5%-1.4%), 1.24% (31/2500; 95% CI 0.9%-1.8%), 1.76% (34/1936; 95% CI 1.2%-2.5%), 2.64% (21/796; 95% CI 1.7%-4.1%), and 3.09% (5/162; 95% CI 1.1%-7.4%). The independent risk factors for PE were age ≥70, knee as opposite to hip replacement, bilateral knee surgery, congestive heart failure, and MetS or the number of MetS components. The odds of PE independently increased 1.6 times (95% CI 1.01-2.56; P = 0.043) for patients with MetS and 1.23 times (95% CI 1.02-1.48; P = 0.028) per each additional MetS component. Conclusion Patients with MetS are at increased risk for PE after total joint arthroplasty. The increasing number of MetS components significantly increased the incidence of PE.
Oncology Patients and Aerobic Exercise: Immune System, Endocrine System, and Soluble Factor Responses

Aerobic exercise has been shown to have many positive effects on physiological and psychological functioning in cancer patients and survivors. Additionally, aerobic exercise may impact several cellular components of the innate and adaptive immune systems, and it may also impact hormonal and pro- and anti-inflammatory soluble factor responses. Therefore, studies regarding the effect of aerobic exercise on the immune system and endocrine system in cancer patients and survivors have begun to appear in the literature. The purpose of this chapter is to (1) briefly describe the role of aerobic exercise as an intervention for improving functioning in oncology patients; (2) provide a comprehensive review of the impact of acute aerobic exercise and aerobic exercise training on cellular immune system function, endocrine, and soluble factor responses in oncology patients; and (3) outline several areas on which future research should focus. A comprehensive literature search up to early 2012 identified 28 original research articles that examined the effects of aerobic exercise on cellular immune system responses, hormonal responses, and/or soluble factor responses (i.e., cytokines and C-reactive protein [CRP]) in oncology patients during and after therapy. Results are mixed, in that studies either observed no change or significant improvements in immune function, hormonal, cytokine, and CRP levels pre- to postexercise. Aerobic exercise appears to be safe for oncology patients and does not seem to cause detrimental immune system or endocrine system effects, although oncology patients undergoing therapy may experience decreased immune function compared to healthy individuals even when participating in aerobic exercise. Additional research is needed to more fully understand all aspects of exercise-induced immune, endocrine, and soluble factor responses in this population, and to determine if aerobic exercise can influence anticancer defenses that could impact cancer recurrence, second malignancy, prognosis, and survival.
Self-catalyzed hydrogenation and dihydrogen adsorption on titanium carbide nanoparticles

Abstract The adsorptions of H2 on metallocarbohedrene Ti8C12, and nanocrystal Ti14C13 are studied using first-principles calculations. The Ti atoms serve as catalyst to mediate the dissociation of H2 to form carbon hydrides, which otherwise would not form. Ti atoms on the surface of the nanocarbides are capable of coordinating with multiple dihydrogen ligands. High hydrogen capacities, 6.1 wt% for Ti8C12 and 7.7 wt% for Ti14C13, were obtained with more than 80% of the H bound in the energy range between 0.17 and 0.89 eV/H2. Once the nanoparticles form a macroscopic material, the amount of chemisorbed hydrogen decreases, but additional hydrogen molecules is then up-taken through physisorption. Our study suggests that TiC nanoparticles have potential for H storage at near ambient conditions.
recA mutants of E. coli K12: A personal turning point

A first year graduate student, Ann Dee Margulies, changed my research career in 1962 by challenging me to direct her in the isolation of recombination-deficient mutants of Escherichia coli K-12. She succeeded in isolating two mutants, which conjugated with donor strains and received the donor DNA, but could not recombine that DNA with their own chromosomes. Ann Dee showed that both mutants were much more sensitive to UV radiation than was the wild type. Furthermore, she showed that one of these mutants carried a single mutation affecting both recombination and resistance. This work, published in 1965, was the first demonstration of the recA gene of E. coli. Subsequent work led to the discovery of many more recombination genes, the phenomenon of post replication-recombination repair, the invention of the SOS hypothesis and the discovery of genes encoding proteins with similar primary structure and function in all major groups of organisms. This article honors the memory of Ann Dee.
Clinical and Morphologic Findings of Familial Goiter in Bongo Antelope (Tragelaphus eurycerus)

Inherited defects of thyroglobulin synthesis resulting in congenital goiter are well described in certain breeds of domestic ungulates and in human beings. Goiter associated with synthesis of an abnormal thyroglobulin and the presence of thyroidal albumin was identified in five closely related bongo antelopes (Tragelaphus eurycerus). The goiter had an adult onset, and the affected bongos appeared to remain euthyroid with normal serum T3 and T4 values, normal serum cholesterol concentrations, and nonelevated concentrations of circulating thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Goitrous bongos had significant reproductive difficulties, including reduced cyclic activity and prolonged gestations, but were otherwise normal. Over the course of the disease, the thyroid glands greatly enlarged (up to 10 x 20 cm) and became polycystic. Microscopically, there was an admixture of giant colloid-filled follicles and follicles of normal size lined with variable follicular epithelium ranging from squamoid to mildly to moderately hyperplastic. The pathogenesis of goiter in the bongo may reflect a mixture ofgenetic predisposition coupled with environmental factors, including a period ofexposure to a goitrogen. Congenital goiter associated with an inability to syn- thesize adequate amounts of normal 19s thyroglobulin (Tg) has been documented in human being^,^.^ Afii- kander cattle,18 Merino sheep,13 a mixed strain of Saa- nen and dwarf and a mutant strain of mice (AKR.L-cog).20 In the three domestic ungulate species, the thyroid gland produces no normal 19s Tg; instead, varying amounts of Tg-like proteins are pre~ent.~,~J~.*~ Congenital goiter is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait in the domestic ungulate specie^,^.^,^^ and in the goat it is associated with clinical hypothyroidism in luds and adults.17 Young goitrous Merino lambs and Afrikander calves are hypothyroid; however, despite the large, often massive goiters, adults usually remain euthyroid. 5,13,15 In this report, we describe the morphologic and clin- ical findings in a group of closely related bongo ante- lopes (Tragelaphus eurycerus) with goiter. The goiter occurred in adulthood and was associated with the synthesis of an abnormal 19s Tg and the presence of thyroidal alb~min.~ The goitrous bongos in this study were euthyroid, with thyroid hormones remaining nor- mal to low n~rmal;~ however, reproductive difficulties, including reduced cyclic activity, diminished concep- tion rates, prolonged gestations, dystocias, and in- creased neonatal mortalities, were often present.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Adolescent Patients Limb Asymmetry and Functional Knee Bracing

Background:Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reinjury rates are high in adolescent patients. Knee braces are commonly used after ACL reconstruction to prevent reinjury during return to sports.Hypothesis:Adolescent patients following ACL injury would demonstrate a decreased vertical ground-reaction force, knee extension moment, knee flexion angle, and knee flexion velocity on the surgical limb when compared with the nonsurgical limb during a side-cutting task. A functional knee extension–resistant brace would decrease the limb asymmetries.Study Design:Controlled laboratory study.Methods:Twenty-three adolescent patients 6 months after ACL reconstruction were recruited for this study. Three-dimensional kinematic and kinetic data were collected bilaterally (surgical, nonsurgical) during a 35° side-cutting task while the patient was wearing and not wearing a functional knee extension–resistant brace (nonbraced, braced) on the surgical limb.Results:The surgical limb demonstrated a significant decrease in peak im...
Understanding Divide-Conquer-Scanning Worms

Internet worms have been a significant security threat. Divide-conquer scanning is a simple yet effective technique that can potentially be exploited by future Internet epidemics. Therefore, it is imperative that defenders understand the characteristics of divide-conquer-scanning worms and study the countermeasures. In this work, we first provide the intuitions that a divide-conquer-scanning worm can potentially spread faster and stealthier than a traditional random-scanning worm. We then characterize the relationships between the propagation speeds of divide-conquer-scanning worms and the distributions of vulnerable hosts through mathematical analysis and simulations. Specifically, we find that if vulnerable hosts follow a non-uniform distribution such as the Witty-worm victim distribution, divide-conquer scanning can spread a worm much faster than random scanning. We also study empirically the effect of important parameters on the spread of divide-conquer-scanning worms. Furthermore, to counteract such attacks, we discuss the weakness of divide-conquer scanning and study a defense mechanism.
Data and safety monitoring policy for National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases clinical trials

Background Historically, four divisions of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) that manage clinical trials and oversee data and safety monitoring have operated fairly autonomously with respect to their approaches to Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) operations. We recognized the need for a revised policy on DSMB operations in an effort to encourage greater harmonization of procedures across the four divisions.Purpose The purpose of this article is to describe the considerations that motivated the development of the new policy, summarize current DSMB policies and ongoing harmonization efforts across the four divisions, and offer some recommendations for DSMB operations in the hope that other organizations may benefit from our experience.Methods From 2005 to 2009, a working group undertook a review of DSMB responsibilities, policies, and operations. We analyzed and summarized the final policy document that the working group produced, gathered data describing current DSMB ...
New Instrument for Measuring Structure in Fluids

A new instrument was developed to study the structural properties of fluids. The instrument consists of a steel sphere suspended from a strain gauge in a fluid sample contained in the core of an electromagnet. Static yield values can be obtained by variation of the electromagnetic field. The behavior of structural fluids in this instrument appears to be in agreement with Bingham's theory on fluid structure.
Characterization of lake water and ground water movement in the littoral zone of Williams Lake, a closed‐basin lake in north central Minnesota

Williams Lake, Minnesota is a closed-basin lake that is a flow-through system with respect to ground water. Ground-water input represents half of the annual water input and most of the chemical input to the lake. Chemical budgets indicate that the lake is a sink for calcium, yet surficial sediments contain little calcium carbonate. Sediment pore-water samplers (peepers) were used to characterize solute fluxes at the lake-water–ground-water interface in the littoral zone and resolve the apparent disparity between the chemical budget and sediment data. Pore-water depth profiles of the stable isotopes δ18O and δ2H were non-linear where ground water seeped into the lake, with a sharp transition from lake-water values to ground-water values in the top 10 cm of sediment. These data indicate that advective inflow to the lake is the primary mechanism for solute flux from ground water. Linear interstitial velocities determined from δ2H profiles (316 to 528 cm/yr) were consistent with velocities determined independently from water budget data and sediment porosity (366 cm/yr). Stable isotope profiles were generally linear where water flowed out of the lake into ground water. However, calcium profiles were not linear in the same area and varied in response to input of calcium carbonate from the littoral zone and subsequent dissolution. The comparison of pore-water calcium profiles to pore-water stable isotope profiles indicate calcium is not conservative. Based on the previous understanding that 40–50 % of the calcium in Williams Lake is retained, the pore-water profiles indicate aquatic plants in the littoral zone are recycling the retained portion of calcium. The difference between the pore-water depth profiles of calcium and δ18O and δ2H demonstrate the importance of using stable isotopes to evaluate flow direction and source through the lake-water–ground-water interface and evaluate mechanisms controlling the chemical balance of lakes. Published in 2003 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Editorial comments on "towards total implantability using FREE-D system: achieving un-tethered VAD operation over large distances".

Dr Pramod Bonde and colleagues clearly state the shortcomings of an external driveline from the ventricular assist device (VAD) to the exterior. The investigators elegantly state the case for untethering. Many of us feel that infection is inevitable as long as the integument is pierced; so, we strongly support the crusade to achieve “wireless” transmission of energy. It is important to realize that we are not talking about transmission of information, but, rather, the transmission of substantive amounts of energy. It is valuable to keep in mind that our group at Yale has used radiofrequency radio transmission of energy across the intact skin for more than 4 decades, since the inception of the technique by Glenn and Hogan. We use this for powering our diaphragm pacemakers (Fig. 1). We are not simply telemetering data but providing all the energy for pulse train stimulation of the diaphragm. So, there is a long track record of feasibility in humans, without skin damage or loss of the life-sustaining stimuli.