cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Protein Kinases and Addiction

Although drugs of abuse have different chemical structures and interact with different protein targets, all appear to usurp common neuronal systems that regulate reward and motivation. Addiction is a complex disease that is thought to involve drug-induced changes in synaptic plasticity due to alterations in cell signaling, gene transcription, and protein synthesis. Recent evidence suggests that drugs of abuse interact with and change a common network of signaling pathways that include a subset of specific protein kinases. The best studied of these kinases are reviewed here and include extracellular signal-regulated kinase, cAMP-dependent protein kinase, cyclin-dependent protein kinase 5, protein kinase C, calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II, and Fyn tyrosine kinase. These kinases have been implicated in various aspects of drug addiction including acute drug effects, drug self-administration, withdrawal, reinforcement, sensitization, and tolerance. Identifying protein kinase substrates and signaling pathways that contribute to the addicted state may provide novel approaches for new pharmacotherapies to treat drug addiction.
A caterpillar climbing robot with spine claws and compliant structural modules

This paper proposes a modular caterpillar climbing robot using spines as the attaching tools. To improve the reliability of the spines' engagement and disengagement, this paper discusses the reasonable trajectory of the spine and designs a driving mechanism of the spine based on the compliant mechanism theory. Then some compliant modules are designed and realized to build the caterpillar climbing robot. A climbing gait is designed to avoid collisions between the spines and the wall, and allows the robot to climb on a stucco-like wall with a 72 degrees incline. The real tests reveal that the deformation of the compliant toes reduces the sliding forces between the spines and the wall, and improve the climbing action obviously.
COMPLEX POPULATION DYNAMICS IN THE REAL WORLD: MODELING THE INFLUENCE OF TIME-VARYING PARAMETERS AND TIME LAGS

We propose a class of complex population dynamic models that combines new time-varying parameters and second-order time lags for describing univariate ecological time series data. The Kalman filter and likelihood function were used to estimate parameters of all models in the class for 31 data sets, and Schwarz’s information criterion (SIC) was used to select the best model for each data set. Using the SIC method, models containing density-dependent processes were selected for 23 of the 31 cases examined, while models containing complex density-dependent processes were selected in 19 of these 23 density dependence cases. The density-dependent models identified by SIC had various linear or nonlinear forms, suggesting variable patterns of population regulation in nature. Population dynamics may combine density-dependent, inversely density-dependent, and density-independent processes, which may operate at different times and under different density ranges. These results suggest that our approach offers an adv...
Noses on Our Faces: The Non-Use of Photography in Psychological Research and Practice

While photographs are the most abundant image form in the world today, they are, at the same time, also the least carefully analyzed. Not one psychologist, to this writer’s knowledge, has attempted to apply relevant research on imagery and the creative process to the study of photographs as personal and cultural communications. Writers, painters, sculptors and scientists have served for years as illustrations of the creative personality, the creative process, and the creative product; photographers and photographs have not (Lindauer, 1977).
Network based intelligent electronic commerce

With recent innovations in Internet, Intranet, and World Wide Web, and user friendly capabilities of dynamic HTML, video streaming schemes, and virtual reality based 3D modeling, it is now completely possible to conduct electronic commerce on the Internet. 3D dynamic images of consumer products can be housed on remote file servers and can be observed by the clients elsewhere. The remote clients can also interactively communicate with the host server to observe and monitor the functional behavior of the product under consideration, leading to the concept of electronic commerce. The author discusses the network based electronic commerce concepts, common gateway interface and video streaming methodologies suitable for electronic commerce.
Differential tumor-targeting abilities of three single-domain antibody formats.

Abstract The large molecular size of antibody drugs is considered one major factor preventing them from becoming more efficient therapeutics. Variable regions of heavy chain antibodies (HCAbs), or single-domain antibodies (sdAbs), are ideal building blocks for smaller antibodies due to their molecular size and enhanced stability. In the search for better antibody formats for in vivo imaging and/or therapy of cancer, three types of sdAb-based molecules directed against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) were constructed, characterized and tested. Eleven sdAbs were isolated from a phage display library constructed from the sdAb repertoire of a llama immunized with a variant of EGFR. A pentameric sdAb, or pentabody, V2C-EG2 was constructed by fusing one of the sdAbs, EG2, to a pentamerization protein domain. A chimeric HCAb (cHCAb), EG2-hFc, was constructed by fusing EG2 to the fragment crystallizable (Fc) of human IgG1. Whereas EG2 and V2C-EG2 localized mainly in the kidneys after i.v. injection, EG2-hFc exhibited excellent tumor accumulation, and this was largely attributed to its long serum half life, which is comparable to that of IgGs. The moderate size (∼80 kDa) and intact human Fc make HCAbs a unique antibody format which may outperform whole IgGs as imaging and therapeutic reagents.
CINR difference analysis of optimal combining versus maximal ratio combining

The statistical gain differences between two common spatial combining algorithms: optimum combining (OC) and maximal ratio combining (MRC) are analyzed using a gain ratio method. Using the receive carrier-to-interference plus noise ratio (CINR), the gain ratio ClNR/sub OC/ /CINR/sub MRC/ is evaluated in a flat Rayleigh fading communications system with multiple interferers. Exact analytical solutions are derived for the probability density function (PDF) and the average gain ratio with one interferer. When more than one interferer is present, the PDF of the gain ratio is illustrated using Monte Carlo simulations and its mean value is shown in basic integral form. An upper bound to the gain ratio is derived providing a simple means to determine when OC will exhibit significant gains over MRC.
The formation of source memory under distraction

It is vital to select and process relevant information while restraining irrelevant information for successful retrieval. When multiple streams of information are concurrently present, the ability to overcome distraction is very crucial for processing relevant information. Despite its significance, the neural mechanism of successful memory formation under distraction remains unclear, especially with memory for associations. The present fMRI study investigated the effect of distraction due to irrelevant stimuli in source memory. In the MR scanner, participants studied an item and perceptual context with no distractor, a letter-distractor, or a word-distractor. Following the study phase, a source recognition test was administered in which participants were instructed to judge the study status of the test items and context of studied items. Participants’ encoding activity was back-sorted by later source recognition to find the influence of distractors in subsequent memory effects. Source memory with distractors recruited greater encoding activity in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and the bilateral inferior temporal gyrus/fusiform cortex, along with the left posterior hippocampus. However, enhanced activity in the left anterior ventrolateral prefrontal cortex and the left parahippocampal cortex predicted successful source memory regardless of the presence of a distractor. These findings of subsequent memory effects suggest that strong binding of the item-context associations, as well as resistance to interference, may have greater premium in the formation of successful source memory of pictures under distraction. Further, attentional selection to the relevant target seems to play a major role in contextual binding under distraction by enhancing the viability of memory representations from interference effects of distractors.
Identifying convective transport of carbon monoxide by comparing remotely sensed observations from TES with cloud modeling simulations

Abstract. Understanding the mechanisms that transport pollutants from the surface to the free atmosphere is important for determining the atmosphere's chemical composition. This study quantifies the vertical transport of tropospheric carbon monoxide (CO) by deep mesoscale convective systems and assesses the ability of the satellite-borne Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer (TES) to detect the resulting enhanced CO in the upper atmosphere. A squall line that is similar to one occurring during NASA's INTEX-B mission is simulated using a typical environmental wind shear profile and the 2-D Goddard Cumulus Ensemble model. The simulation provides post-convection CO profiles. The structure of the simulated squall line is examined, and its vertical transport of CO is quantified. Then, TES' ability to resolve the convectively modified CO distribution is documented using a "clear-sky" retrieval scheme. Results show that the simulated squall line transports the greatest mass of CO in the upper levels, with a value of 96 t upward and 67 t downward at 300 hPa. Results indicate that TES has sufficient sensitivity to resolve convectively lofted CO, as long as the retrieval scene is cloud-free. TES swaths located immediately downwind of squall lines have the greatest chance of sensing convective transport because the impact of clouds on retrieval quality becomes less. A note of caution is to always analyze TES-derived CO data (or data from any satellite sensor) together with the retrieval averaging kernels that describe the information content of the retrieval.
Leading Indicators of Damage for Prognostication of Leadfree Electronics Subjected to Multiple Thermo-Mechanical Environments

Electronic assemblies deployed in harsh environments may be subjected to multiple thermal environments during the use-life of the equipment. Often the equipment may not have any macro-indicators of damage such as cracks or delamination. Quantification of thermal environments during use-life is often not feasible because of the data-capture and storage requirements, and the overhead on core-system functionality. There is need for tools and techniques to quantify damage in deployed systems in absence of macro-indicators of damage without knowledge of prior stress history. The presented PHM framework is targeted towards high reliability applications such as avionic and space systems. In this paper, Sn3.0Ag0.5Cu alloy packages have been subjected to multiple thermal cycling environments including −55 to 125C and 0 to 100C. Assemblies investigated include area-array packages soldered on FR4 printed circuit cards. The methodology involves the use of condition monitoring devices, for gathering data on damage pre-cursors at periodic intervals. Damage-state interrogation technique has been developed based on the Levenberg-Marquardt Algorithm in conjunction with the microstructural damage evolution proxies. The presented technique is applicable to electronic assemblies which have been deployed on one thermal environment, then withdrawn from service and targeted for redeployment in a different thermal environment. Test cases have been presented to demonstrate the viability of the technique for assessment of prior damage, operational readiness and residual life for assemblies exposed to multiple thermo-mechanical environments. Prognosticated prior damage and the residual life show good correlation with experimental data, demonstrating the validity of the presented technique for multiple thermo-mechanical environments.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
A review of the risks and benefits of differing prophylaxis regimens for the treatment of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in neurosurgery.

Abstract Background Annually, 2 million people in the United States develop deep venous thrombosis (DVT), and nearly 100 000 sustain fatal pulmonary emboli. Prophylaxis against DVT/pulmonary embolism (PE) is a critical issue, and options include elastic stockings, intermittent pneumatic compression stockings, low-dose unfractionated heparin (5000 U every 8-12 hours), and low molecular-weight heparin (ie, enoxaparin and dalteparin). The risks and benefits associated with different prophylaxis regimens used in the prevention of DVT and PE in neurosurgical procedures were analyzed. Methods Neurosurgical studies focusing on different methods of prophylaxis used for the prevention of DVT and PE were reviewed. The efficacy, risks, and benefits of varied treatment options were evaluated, with particular emphasis on minor and major hemorrhages occurring where heparin-based protocols were used. Results In Flinn et al series ( Arch Surg . 1996;131(5):472-80), the incidence of DVT was greater for cranial (7.7%) than spinal procedures (1.5%). Although intermittent pneumatic compression devices provided adequate reduction of DVT/PE in some cranial and combined cranial/spinal series, low-dose subcutaneous unfractionated heparin or low molecular-weight heparins further reduced the incidence, not always of DVT, but of PE ( Br J Neurosurg 1995;9(2):159-63; J Intensive Care Med 2003;18(2):59-79). Nevertheless, low-dose heparin-based prophylaxis in cranial and spinal series risks minor and major postoperative hemorrhages: 2% to 4% in a cranial series, 3.4% minor and 3.4% major hemorrhages in a combined cranial/spinal series, and a 0.7% incidence of major/minor hemorrhages in a spinal series ( J Neurosurg 2003;99(4):680-4; Neurosurgery 1986;18(4):440-5; Eur Spine J 2004;13(1):1-8; J Intensive Care Med 2003;18(2):59-79). Conclusions Although mechanical prophylaxis provided effective prophylaxis against DVT/PE in many series, the added efficacy of low-dose heparin regimens has to be weighed against risks of major postoperative hemorrhages and their neurological sequelae.
Polarization Lost: Exploring the Decline of Ideological Voting after the Gilded Age

We examine the decline in congressional polarization that occurred during the 1920s, as party differences narrowed relative to the high levels of the turn of the twentieth century – a period that has, until recently, been regarded as the high-water-mark of partisan polarization in American politics. While our results are preliminary, we note two sets of findings. First, procedures may have contributed to depolarization, in that a decline in agenda control and procedural dominance by the majority party in the House seems to have been a significant factor associated with depolarization. That is, as highly polarized roll calls declined and the proportion of less polarized substantive roll calls increased, overall levels of polarization in the House declined. Second, both qualitative and roll call evidence suggests that agricultural and tariff policies were key early areas of interparty cooperation, providing important opportunities for cross-party and cross-regional coalitions (like the Farm Bloc and the Progressive Coalition) to form before the Conservative Coalition emerged in the late-1930s.
Research‐on‐Evaluation Articles Published in the American Journal of Evaluation, 1998–2014

Prominent evaluators have advocated over the years for research on evaluation (RoE), yet to our knowledge, studies about the number and percentage of RoE studies that have been published do not exist. In this chapter, we present a summary of the RoE articles, categorized by several descriptive characteristics, that have been published in the American Journal of Evaluation (AJE), the flagship journal of the American Evaluation Association. We show that (a) about half of AJE articles can be considered RoE, (b) the percentage per year tended to increase through 2011, (c) half of the RoE articles addressed evaluation independent of a professional domain, (d) about one-third were single case studies or surveys, and (e) the topics of the research have varied considerably. We conclude by arguing for continued documentation of RoE and for the development of an electronic database for evaluators seeking empirical evidence to address common evaluation issues.
Quantification of hepatic functional capacity: A call for standardization

Reliable assessments of liver function are becoming increasingly important as more patients with surgically amenable liver disease are considered for treatment. Static markers of liver function are not sufficient to provide accurate assessments of hepatic function in order to risk stratify patients undergoing hepatic resection. Metabolic tests are dynamic indicators of liver function, but can be unreliable under certain conditions and thus difficult to make comparisons. Clearance tests avoid some of the pitfalls encountered during metabolic testing, but depend on hepatic blood flow and say little about hepatocyte function. Testing that combines imaging with measures of hepatocyte uptake may offer the most utility when planning surgical resections.
Implicit Transpositions in Shortest DCJ Scenarios

Genome rearrangements are large-scale evolutionary events that shuffle genomic architectures. The minimal number of such events between two genomes is often used in phylogenomic studies to measure the evolutionary distance between the genomes. Double-Cut-and-Join DCJ operations represent a convenient model of most common genome rearrangements reversals, translocations, fissions, and fusions, while other genome rearrangements, such as transpositions, can be modeled by pairs of DCJs. Since the DCJ model does not directly account for transpositions, their impact on DCJ scenarios is unclear. In the current work, we study implicit appearance of transpositions as pairs of DCJs in shortest DCJ scenarios and prove uniform lower and upper bounds for their proportion. Our results imply that implicit transpositions may be unavoidable and even appear in a significant proportion for some genomes. We estimate that in mammalian evolution transpositions constitute at least $$17\,\%$$17% of genome rearrangements.
Fine-structure epitope mapping of antierythropoietin monoclonal antibodies reveals a model of recombinant human erythropoietin structure

We have isolated and mapped the rHuEPO epitopes for three noncompeting anti-EPO monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs). The MoAb 9G8A recognizes a linear epitope that includes amino acids 13, 16, and 17. MoAb F12 recognizes a conformational epitope that includes amino acids 31 through 33, 86 through 91, and 138. MoAb D11 recognizes a conformational epitope that includes amino acids 64 through 78 and 99 through 110. MoAb D11 neutralizes rHuEPO activity which suggests that its epitope may contain the receptor binding domain. Analysis of the effect of mutations on folding allowed the identification of buried residues, alpha-helical, and non alpha-helical regions. This data along with epitope mapping data of anti rHuEPO monoclonals was used to model rHuEPO protein structure. A model consistent with the data is a 4-helix bundle with short and long interconnecting loops.
Chronic renal insufficiency after partial nephrectomy for T1b tumors.

Purpose of review Partial nephrectomy for larger kidney tumors (T1b) has gained widespread acceptance in most academic institutions, with similar oncologic outcomes to radical nephrectomy. This review focuses on the factors that affect renal function after partial nephrectomy, and presents current information about the relative importance of each factor as well as chronic kidney disease (CKD) after renal surgery. Recent findings CKD occurs over the long term in a significant percentage of patients following partial nephrectomy. The interaction of different factors including baseline kidney function (influenced by age and medical comorbidity), amount of preserved renal parenchyma (influenced by surgical technique), and ischemia time (warm or cold) determines the ultimate functional outcome. De-novo CKD resulting from surgery in previously healthy individuals may not place these patients at increased risk of progression or mortality. Summary Urologists continue to strive towards improved kidney function after partial nephrectomy, particularly for larger tumors. Careful identification of factors involved in functional outcome, and optimization of modifiable factors, will remain at the forefront of efforts to minimize renal functional loss after partial nephrectomy.
Risk assessment of air pollution in newly decorated places in Zhongshan

Objective To investigate the situation of air pollution and probe into risk evaluation method in the newly decorated places.Methods A total of 300,813,270,709 and 969 air samples were collected from newly decorated places in 2007-2011 in Zhongshan respectively.The indexes included formaldehyde,benzene,toluene,TVOC and radon.The test data of newly decorated place was analyzed by air quality index(AQI) and risk matrix approach(RMA).Results The mean values of AQI were 0.96,0.80,0.48,0.95 and 0.61 for houses,hotels,offices,supermarkets and resorts respectively,with significant difference(F=9.474,P0.001).From 2007 to 2012,the mean values of AQI were significantly different(F=32.774,P0.001) and decreased gradually.There was positive correlation between AQI and multitude subjective sensation(rs =0.734,P0.001).With the method of risk matrix approach,it was concluded that houses were at the high risk,supermarkets and offices were at moderate risk,resorts and hotels were at low risk.Conclusion Based on the air quality and exposure time,there is certain health risk in newly decorated places in this study.
A History of Action Theory

Several basic questions confront anyone attempting to do a comprehensive study of action. One is exactly what is a human action — as opposed to divine, angelic, animal, plant, or even mechanical or unconscious action. What thus distinguishes it from mere behavior, on the one hand, and simply habit or disposition, on the other? Can we reflexively furnish a comprehensive and complete set of criteria for it?
Effective immunochemotherapy of CALLA+C mu+ human pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia in mice with severe combined immunodeficiency using B43 (anti-CD19) pokeweed antiviral protein immunotoxin plus cyclophosphamide.

A highly aggressive human CALLA+C mu+ pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cell line (NALM-6-UM1) causes disseminated and invariably fatal leukemia in CB.17 mice with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). We used this SCID mouse model of human pre-B ALL to evaluate and compare, in a total of 434 SCID mice, the antileukemic efficacy of B43 (anti-CD19)-pokeweed antiviral protein (PAP) immunotoxin and cyclophosphamide (CPA) as individual reagents and as combined immunochemotherapeutic regimens. B43-PAP plus CPA was superior to either the immunotoxin or drug alone, and combined immunochemotherapy markedly improved the event-free survival (EFS) of SCID mice challenged with NALM-6-UM1 pre-B ALL cells. Notably, 90% to 100% of SCID mice challenged with 1 x 10(6) leukemia cells and then treated with B43-PAP plus CPA combined immunochemotherapy regimens became long-term survivors, a result not achieved with B43-PAP alone or CPA alone. The advantage was particularly evident in mice inoculated with 5 x 10(6) leukemia cells. While neither 15 micrograms B43-PAP (median survival, 58 days) nor 1 mg CPA (median survival, 49 days) resulted in long-term EFS of SCID mice challenged with 5 x 10(6) NALM-6- UM1 pre-B ALL cells, the probability of EFS at 6 months was 50% +/- 16% for SCID mice treated with 15 micrograms B43-PAP plus 1 mg CPA (median survival, greater than 180 days) (P less than .0001). The probability of long-term EFS was only 14% +/- 7% for mice treated with 30 micrograms B43-PAP and 0% +/- 0% for mice treated with 1 mg CPA, but 40% +/- 16% for mice treated with 30 micrograms B43-PAP plus 1 mg CPA (P less than .0001). Similarly, the probability of EFS at 6 months was 40% +/- 16% for mice treated with 2 mg CPA alone, 70% +/- 15% for mice treated with 2 mg CPA plus 15 micrograms B43-PAP, and 70% +/- 15% for mice treated with 2 mg CPA plus 30 micrograms B43-PAP. Ten SCID mice in the B43-PAP plus CPA combined immunochemotherapy arms surviving long term after the inoculation of 5 x 10(6) NALM-6-UM1 pre-B ALL cells were electively killed at 174 to 181 days to assess their leukemia burden. We found no evidence of leukemia in any of the bone marrow specimens by two-color immunofluorescence and multiparameter flow cytometry.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Myometrial artery calcifications and aging.

Objective This study aims to determine whether myometrial artery calcifications increase with age and whether uterine sections are an appropriate model for studying vascular aging. Methods An observational study of 172 women (aged 45 y or older) who underwent hysterectomy for benign indications at the University Hospital (Newark, NJ) between July 1, 2009 and June 1, 2012 was performed. Women with a history of malignancy, undocumented last menstrual period, or unavailable uterine tissue slides were excluded. H&E-stained uterine sections were evaluated for myometrial artery calcifications (defined as the presence of acellular densely basophilic material within the media of vessels) by a single pathologist in a blinded manner. Results Between July 1, 2009 and June 1, 2012, hysterectomies were performed on 441 women, 172 of whom met inclusion criteria. Seventeen women (9.9%) had myometrial artery calcifications detectable on H&E-stained tissue sections. None of 84 women aged 45 to 49 years, 2 of 51 women (3.9%) aged 50 to 59 years (aged 56 and 58 y), 10 of 27 women (37%) aged 60 to 69 years, and 5 of 10 women (50%) aged 70 to 81 years had myometrial artery calcifications. The prevalence of myometrial artery calcifications significantly increased with advancing age (P = 0.022). Conclusions Myometrial artery calcifications increase with advancing age. Histological sections of uterine tissue from hysterectomy specimens seem to be a useful model for evaluating vascular aging markers.
Lightweight and high-resolution single crystal silicon optics for x-ray astronomy

We describe an approach to building mirror assemblies for next generation X-ray telescopes. It incorporates knowledge and lessons learned from building existing telescopes, including Chandra, XMM-Newton, Suzaku, and NuSTAR, as well as from our direct experience of the last 15 years developing mirror technology for the Constellation-X and International X-ray Observatory mission concepts. This approach combines single crystal silicon and precision polishing, thus has the potential of achieving the highest possible angular resolution with the least possible mass. Moreover, it is simple, consisting of several technical elements that can be developed independently in parallel. Lastly, it is highly amenable to mass production, therefore enabling the making of telescopes of very large photon collecting areas.
Muromachi Foreign Policy with Korea: Diplomatic Rapprochement in Premodern East Asia

Fifteenth-century East Asia underwent a remarkable metamorphosis instigated by strong leaders such as Emperor Yung-lo (r. 1403–1424) of Ming China, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu (1358–1408) of Muromachi Japan, King Sejong (r. 1418–1450) of Chosŏn Korea and King Shō Shin (r. 1477–1526) of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The most significant consequence of this century was the emergence of diplomacy and ideology in East Asia. This chapter deals with the nature of diplomacy and ideology in the Muromachi period and it is therefore useful to begin with some background information. The establishment of the Ashikaga headquarters in Kyoto in 1378 by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and the unification of the Northern and Southern Courts in 1392 witnessed the efflorescence of Japan’s premodern Muromachi period. The Muromachi period is generally considered as beginning with the foundation of the bakufu and the promulgation of its legal decree Kemmu shikimoku in 1336 by Ashikaga Takauji and ending when the last shogun Ashikaga Yoshiaki was ousted by a prevailing warlord Oda Nobunaga in 1573. However, Kenneth A. Grossberg argues that the Muromachi age was limited to the years from 1336 to 1490 “when the Ashikaga shoguns actually ruled and their Bakufu was a viable central government.”1
Neurosurgery for Pediatric Psychopaths

Although Hubner and White's (2016) conclusion in “Neurosurgery for Psychopaths?” is that the neurosurgical intervention of deep brain stimulation (DBS) on imprisoned psychopaths is impermissible, t...
Developments in dynamic atomic force microscopy techniques to characterize viscoelastic behaviors of food materials at the nanometer-scale

The atomic force microscope measures topographical and mechanical properties of surface-deposited materials by characterizing the forces exerted on a cantilever probe and choosing a mechanical model that appropriately transforms this to viscoelastic data. In dynamic modes, the cantilever oscillates at driven frequencies, and this oscillatory motion is dampened by viscoelastic forces exerted by the sample. Recent developments in dynamic modes are discussed, including techniques to limit noise, control the time and depth of sample indentation, modulate frequency and amplitude to quickly identify peak forces and resonances, improve accuracy in liquids, and reliably excite the cantilever and sample at multiple frequencies, all of which improve speed, accuracy, and resolution of imaging and viscoelasticity determination in food materials.
Surgical Critical Care for the Trauma Patient with Cardiac Disease

The elderly population is rapidly increasing in number. Therefore, geriatric trauma is becoming more prevalent. All practitioners caring for geriatric trauma patients should be familiar with the structural and functional changes naturally occurring in the aging heart, as well as common preexisting cardiac diseases in the geriatric population. Identification of the shock state related to cardiac dysfunction and targeted assessment of perfusion and resuscitation are important when managing elderly patients. Finally, management of cardiac dysfunction in the trauma patient includes an appreciation of the inherent effects of trauma on cardiac function.
The effect of hand-hygiene interventions on infectious disease-associated absenteeism in elementary schools: A systematic literature review

Background Hand-hygiene interventions are widely used in schools but their effect on reducing absenteeism is not well known. Methods The aim of our literature review was to determine whether implementation of a hand-hygiene intervention reduced infectious disease-associated absenteeism in elementary schools. The eligible studies (N = 19), published between 1996 and 2014, were summarized and the methodologic quality of each was assessed. Results Our review indicated evidence is available to show hand-hygiene interventions had an effect on reducing acute gastrointestinal illness-associated absenteeism but inadequate evidence is available to show an effect on respiratory illness-associated absenteeism. Conclusions The methodologic quality assessment of eligible studies revealed common design flaws, such as lack of randomization, blinding, and attrition, which must be addressed in future studies to strengthen the evidence base on the effect of hand-hygiene interventions on school absenteeism.
Comment on “Electron Correlation Effects in Resonant Inelastic X-ray Scattering of NaV 2 O 5 ”

This is a Comment on the Letter by G.P. Zhang et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 88, 077401 (2002). In the original article, element- and site-specific resonant inelastic x-ray scattering spectroscopy (RIXS) is employed to investigate electron correlation effects in NaV{sub 2}O{sub 5}. In contrast to single photon techniques, RIXS at the vanadium L{sub 3} edge is able to probe d-d* transitions between V d-bands. A sharp energy loss feature is observed at -1.56eV, which is well reproduced by a model calculation including correlation effects. The calculation identifies the loss feature as excitation between the lower and upper Hubbard bands and permits an accurate determination of the Hubbard interaction term U = 3.0{+-}0.2eV.
Dynamic Light Scattering and Applications to Micellar Systems

Static and dynamic light scattering are very useful tools to study a broad spectrum of molecular systems in solution. In this paper, the theory of dynamic light scattering for rigid and flexible systems that are not small with respect to the the wavelength of the incident radiation is presented. Dynamic light scattering detects diffusive modes of particles. When particles or aggregates of size L are not spherical, the translational and rotational diffusive motions are coupled in solution. For cylindrically symmetric particles, the electric field correlation function is a weighted sum of decaying exponentials with time constants of the form: $${{\rm{\tau }}_{{\rm{JM}}}} = {\left\{ {{{\rm{q}}^{\rm{2}}}{\rm{D + }}\left[ {{\rm{J}}\left( {{\rm{J + l}}} \right) + {{\rm{W}}_{{\rm{JM}}}}\left( {\rm{\gamma }} \right)} \right]\Theta } \right\}^{ - 1}}$$ where q is the scattering vector, D the translational diffusion coefficient, γ measures the magnitude of the translation-rotation coupling and θ is the rotational diffusion coefficient. The weighting term depends on the size and shape of the particle, the scattering angle and polarization angles. Flexible systems have additional contributions from flexural relaxation rates to the time constants and persistence length contributions to the weighting terms. As an example of the application of these theories, the structure of phospholipid vesicles studied by static and dynamic anisotropic scattering is discussed in detail. Micelles which appear to be large flexible wormlike coils formed by dodecyldimethylammoniumchloride in high salt are also discussed. For this system we find that rotation-translation coupling and semi-dilute solution effects play a minor role due to high flexibility, whereas polydispersity is very important in understanding the light scattering data.
Propidium monoazide-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PMA-DGGE) assay for the characterization of viable diatoms in marine sediments

Molecular-based community profiles often overestimate species richness and diversity as they are incapable of distinguishing DNA signals derived from extracellular or moribund sources from that of viable organisms. Propidium monoazide (PMA), a double stranded DNA-binding dye, was used to selectively isolate the genetic signature of viable diatoms from marine cultures and environmental samples. Upon optimization of photoactivation time using a 600-W halogen lamp, PMA concentrations, and number of treatments, the compromised genetic signals from heat-killed samples, visualized by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis, were either greatly reduced or removed entirely while those derived from intact, viable samples remained relatively unaffected. Subsequent tests illustrated that bands associated with extracellular and moribund DNA were removed from combinations of viable and nonviable cells initially derived from two sedimentary diatom isolates. In addition, viable and nonviable samples of Skeletonema marin...
Administering Blood Products Before Selected Interventional Radiology Procedures: Developing, Applying, and Monitoring a Standardized Protocol

Abstract Purpose To apply and monitor a single institution's adherence to internally established guidelines for the preoperative administration of platelets and/or fresh frozen plasma (FFP) before a specified subset of minimally invasive interventional radiology (IR) procedures. Materials and Methods Beginning in December 2008, we implemented a set of restrictive guidelines for preoperative platelet and/or FFP administration before IR procedures at a single academic hospital. Basing our program on the methodology of Lean Six Sigma, we compared the number and appropriateness of transfusions between the months of January and October in 2008 (prepolicy), again in 2010 (postpolicy), and finally in 2015 (follow-up). Patients with a platelet count less than or equal to 50,000 or an international normalized ratio greater than or equal to 1.7 met criteria for receiving platelets or FFP, respectively, before their IR procedure. For all three periods, we compared the rates of transfusion, hemorrhagic complications, and proportion of appropriate versus inappropriate blood product administration (BPA) per our guidelines. Results There was a significant increase in the number of appropriate BPAs between 2008 and 2010 from 58% to 76% ( P = .021). Between 2010 and 2015, the rate trended up further, from 76% to 88% ( P = .051). Overall, between 2008 and 2015, the improvement from 58% to 88% was significant ( P Conclusion Restrictive guidelines for receiving platelets and FFP administrations before IR procedures can sustainably decrease the rate of overall BPA while increasing the proportion of appropriate BPA without impacting the rate of hemorrhagic complications.
Biogenic Weathering: Solubilization of Iron from Minerals by Epilithic Freshwater Algae and Cyanobacteria

A sandstone outcrop exposed to freshwater seepage supports a diverse assemblage of photosynthetic microbes. Dominant taxa are two cyanophytes (Oscillatoria sp., Rivularia sp.) and a unicellular green alga (Palmellococcus sp.). Less abundant taxa include a filamentous green alga, Microspora, and the desmid Cosmarium. Biologic activity is evidenced by measured levels of chlorophyll and lipids. Bioassay methods confirm the ability of these microbes to dissolve and metabolize Fe from ferruginous minerals. Chromatographic analysis reveals citric acid as the likely chelating agent; this low molecular weight organic acid is detectable in interstitial fluid in the sandstone, measured as 0.0756 mg/mL. Bioassays using a model organism, Synechoccus elongates strain UTEX 650, show that Fe availability varies among different ferruginous minerals. In decreasing order of Fe availability: magnetite > limonite > biotite > siderite > hematite. Biotite was selected for detailed study because it is the most abundant iron-bearing mineral in the sandstone. SEM images support the microbiologic evidence, showing weathering of biotite compared to relatively undamaged grains of other silicate minerals.
Design of notch-on-transmit linear FM waveform for radar signals

Notch filter design using standard FIR and IIR techniques is presented, followed by the discussion on the use of sharpening filter to sharpen the filter's frequency response. Examples of notched waveforms are illustrated to show the effectiveness of the techniques.
9. Prevalence of cervical dysplasia among migrant omen with female genital mutilation.

Background According to recent estimates, 500 000 women have or are at risk of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Europe and 14 700 in Switzerland.In Geneva, 6% of the population are asylum seekers, mainly from African countries where FGM is prevalent. No study exists on cervical dysplasia prevalence after FGM. Prevalence of severe dysplasia (HSIL+) in sub-Sahara African countries is estimated at 2.5%–3%; in Switzerland it's 0.58%. Objective To assess the prevalence of HSIL+ among women with FGM at at the Department of Gynecology of the Geneva University Hospitals. Methods Retrospective review of 619 consecutive medical files of the outpatients' clinic for women with FGM between 2010 and 2016. FGM type were recorded after gynecological exam and cervical screening performed. Results 368 women were included, average age 34.3 years old, mainly from Eritrea and Somalia (n=225, 61.14%). Most have FGM type 3 (n=205, 55,87 %). The prevalence of (HSIL+) was 2.98%. Conclusions Migrant women with FGM, who are known to be at risk of long term urogynecological, sexual and obstetric negative consequences, seem also to have a significant high prevalence of cervical dysplasia HSIL.
Host-plant resistance associated with Poncirus trifoliata influence oviposition, development and adult emergence of Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Liviidae).

BACKGROUND The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama, is the primary vector of the phloem-inhabiting bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus putatively responsible for citrus greening (huanglongbing), a devastating citrus disease. Infestations of D. citri frequently develop on Citrus and other genera within the Rutaceae subfamily Aurantioideae including Murraya and Bergera. The genotype Poncirus trifoliata is also a member of the Aurantioideae and readily hybridizes with Citrus spp., but colonization by D. citri is reduced on this genotype. RESULTS Working with young potted seedlings grown in a greenhouse, we found that the development of D. citri immatures on four P. trifoliata cultivars, especially 'Kryder 55-5', was slower compared with the development of immatures on the susceptible Citrus macrophylla. In choice assays, adult psyllids exhibited antixenotic behavior towards accessions of P. trifoliata and laid fewer eggs on this genotype compared with C. macrophylla. CONCLUSIONS Based on reduced oviposition and delays in development, P. trifoliata exhibits a combination of antixenosis and antibiosis host-plant resistance to D. citri. A companion plant assay showed that the presence of C. macrophylla stimulated higher oviposition rates on P. trifoliata, but nymph development remained retarded on P. trifoliata. Here, we show that the antixenosis associated with trifoliate accessions can be overcome to some extent by the presence of a preferred susceptible host plant; but in combination with antibiosis P. trifoliata remains an inferior host plant. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.
Asymptotic expansions and L ∞ -error estimates for mixed finite element methods for second order elliptic problems

Asymptotic expansions for mixed finite element approximations of the second order elliptic problem are derived and Richardson extrapolation can be applied to increase the accuracy of the approximations. A new procedure, which is called the `error corrected method', is presented as a further application of the asymptotic error expansion for the first order BDM approximation of the scalar field. The key point in deriving the asymptotic expansions for the error is an establishment ofL 1-error estimates for mixed finite element approximations for the regularized Green's functions. As another application of theL 1-error estimates for the regularized Green's functions, we shall present maximum norm error estimates for mixed finite element methods for second order elliptic problems.
Delayed facial palsy after tympanomastoid surgery.

Objectives The purpose of this report is to provide data on the incidence of delayed facial palsy (DFP) after tympanomastoid surgery, compare incidence among various otologic and neurotologic procedures, and discuss the possible etiology. Study design The study design was a retrospective case review. Setting The study was conducted at a tertiary referral center. Patients The records of 486 patients with normal facial function before tympanomastoid surgery were reviewed. Intervention Patients underwent tympanomastoid surgery. Outcome measures Delayed facial palsy was defined as facial palsy occurring more than 72 hours after surgery. Results Seven of 486 (1.4%) patients had DFP after tympanomastoid surgery. In two patients, the DFP was caused by a postoperative wound infection. Facial palsy in the other five patients likely was caused by viral reactivation. Conclusions Published data for otologic surgery suggest a rising incidence of DFP with increased manipulation of the sensory branches of the facial nerve. Viral reactivation is postulated to be an important contributing mechanism in the development of DFP. A number of viruses could potentially cause this phenomenon, but observations in this study implicate the varicella zoster virus. Patients with a history of viral reactivation may be at greater risk for development of this complication.
Opportunistic Screening for Osteoporosis Using Computed Tomography: State of the Art and Argument for Paradigm Shift.

Osteoporosis is disproportionately common in rheumatology patients. For the past three decades, the diagnosis of osteoporosis has benefited from well-established practice guidelines that emphasized the use of dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Despite these guidelines and the wide availability of DXA, approximately two thirds of eligible patients do not undergo testing. One strategy to improve osteoporosis testing is to employ computed tomography (CT) examinations obtained as part of routine patient care to “opportunistically” screen for osteoporosis, without additional cost or radiation exposure to patients. This review examines the role of opportunistic CT in the evaluation of osteoporosis. Recent evidence suggests that opportunistic measurement of bone attenuation (radiodensity) using CT has sensitivity comparable to DXA. More importantly, such an approach has been shown to predict osteoporotic fractures. The paradigm shift of using CTs obtained for other reasons to opportunistically screen for osteoporosis promises to substantially improve patient care.