cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Future of Robotics in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery

Indications for robotic surgery continue to expand within the field of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for benign and malignant diseases of the tonsils and base of tongue is the most common procedure and can be performed using different robotic platforms. However, recent advances in surgical techniques and robotic technologies may lead to increased interest in transoral and/or transcervical robotic approaches to the neck for procedures such as thyroidectomy, salivary gland excision, and neck dissection. The anterior and lateral skull base may also become more favorable targets for robotic interventions as the technology continues to improve. This chapter briefly reviews the history and current cutting edge of robotics in this field and highlights important trends for the future.
Optimal Arytenoid Position in Laryngeal Framework Surgery: An Anatomic Human Larynx Study.

OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to better understand the effects of stitch placement on arytenoid medialization by measuring normative cricoarytenoid joint anatomy and changes in arytenoid position when varying arytenopexy stitch configuration. METHODS This adult human larynx study was done in two parts. First, measurements of the cricoid and arytenoid cartilage anatomy relevant to cricoarytenoid joint function were made in 45 preserved larynges (26 male (M), 19 female (F)) using digital calipers. Second, the arytenoids of six fresh larynges ( three M, three F) were sutured to the cricoid using various arytenopexy-stitch placements ranging from inferior-lateral to superior-medial, and the resulting arytenoid positions were compared by measuring medial displacement of the arytenoid body and change in glottal configuration from macro still images using Image J. Paired t-tests were used to compare the results. RESULTS Cartilage and joint facet dimensions showed differences between males (M) and females (F). Cricoid facet lengths averaged 9.3 mm (M) and 7.1 mm (F), and widths averaged 4.9 mm (M) and 4.0 mm (F). The arytenoid facet widths averaged 10.5 mm (M) and 9.7 mm (F). Average distances between cricoid facets were 11.8 mm for both males and females. Securing the arytenoid superior-medially on the cricoid facet produced more medialization (2.2 mm vs 1.0 mm, P < .001) and better glottic aperture configuration (9.5° vs 2.7°, P < .001) than securing the arytenoid inferior-laterally on the facet. CONCLUSIONS Anatomic consistency in cricoarytenoid anatomy provides reliable surgical landmarks for ideal placement of an arytenopexy suture to optimally reposition the arytenoid cartilage. Optimal arytenoid medialization can be accurately reproduced with an arytenopexy-suture that is placed superior-medially on the cricoid facet. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE NA Laryngoscope, 131:2540-2544, 2021.
Fast Bayesian Variable Selection in Binomial and Negative Binomial Regression

Bayesian variable selection is a powerful tool for data analysis, as it offers a principled method for variable selection that accounts for prior information and uncertainty. However, wider adoption of Bayesian variable selection has been hampered by computational challenges, especially in difficult regimes with a large number of covariates or non-conjugate likelihoods. Generalized linear models for count data, which are prevalent in biology, ecology, economics, and beyond, represent an important special case. Here we introduce an efficient MCMC scheme for variable selection in binomial and negative binomial regression that exploits Tempered Gibbs Sampling (Zanella and Roberts, 2019) and that includes logistic regression as a special case. In experiments we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach, including on cancer data with seventeen thousand covariates.
Influence of O2/N2 oxidizer blends on soot formation and radiative heat flux in PMMA-air 2D slab burner for understanding hybrid rocket combustion

Abstract The focus of this study is to establish a correlation between the flame to fuel incident radiative heat flux (RHF) in 1D steady-state diffusion flames to non-intrusively measured RHF in 2D slab burner experiments for a range of O 2 / N 2 oxidizer blends. Slab burner experiments are conducted for a range of increasing O 2 concentrations from 17% to 100% in the oxidizer stream. Non-intrusive two-color pyrometry is used to determine flame temperature, soot volume fraction, and flame to fuel surface RHF. Measurements and modeling confirm soot volume fraction attains a local maximum for an O 2 concentration of 45 % . Low-strain diffusion flame modeling shows the reason for the local maximum is the relative location of the soot formation/nucleation fronts relative to oxidation which decreases with increasing O 2 concentration. Overall good agreement between modeling and measurements of radiative heat flux to the fuel is observed for the fuel and range of O 2 concentrations considered. These results demonstrate the viability of using flamelet modeling approaches for describing hybrid rocket motors.
Analysis of Stress from Playing a Firefighter Simulator using EEG Signals

Due to the environments they are regularly exposed to, firefighters often experience high levels of stress while on duty. Left untreated, excessive stress can be detrimental to one's health. Hence, it is important to assess the levels of stress that firefighters experience to help prevent harmful long-term health effects. In this study, EEG was used to measure a subject's stress levels while they played a firefighter simulation game on PC. The game simulates a similar environment to what firefighters would typically experience, ideally inducing a certain amount of stress. The collected readings were then compared with EEG data gathered before and after the game was played. The EEG collected during this procedure is analyzed in MATLAB and the ensuing results were compared with one another. The experiment concluded that a suitable amount of stress was induced by playing the firefighting simulator.
Computational thinking learning experiences, outcomes, and research in preschool settings: a scoping review of literature

When implemented appropriately, computational thinking (CT) experiences in early childhood settings build essential literacy skills and foster initial explorations of sequencing, engineering design principles, and cause-and-effect relationships. While existing research explores CT in K-12 settings, there is insufficient research documenting the true scope of CT skills for preschool-age children (ages 3–5 years old). Thus, the paucity of research in this emerging area warranted a scoping review approach. This scoping review surveys existing CT studies with preschool-age participants and maps what is known of CT learning experience design, intended educational outcomes, and CT study design. Evidence from the reviewed articles (n = 17) indicate most studies used physical kits, task-oriented activities, and varying experience timeframes and adult scaffolding. Most studies focused on learning sequencing and events with few embedding remixing and reusing skills. Additionally, studies primarily implemented pre-post research design approaches, and few utilized qualitative methods. The analysis of the reviewed articles indicates gaps exist in CT experience designs, scope of CT interventions, and CT tool research and development. We conclude with recommendations for closing the knowledge gaps by providing specific future research directions.
End of Life Choices

As advancements in medicine, pharmaceuticals, and technology at the end of life have proliferated, particularly in Western industrialized nations around the world, the range of choices for people at the end of life has not. Nature and culture strike a delicate balance at the end of life today. Choice is not simple, but instead follows a highly structured, cultural script. Ultimately, death is biological and in one sense of that word, inevitable. Importantly, however, death is also a cultural event, and ‘choices’ are those options culturally scripted and publically mediated that allow people to die within and outside of culturally appropriate ways of dying in places around the world. In the Foucauldian sense, choice is an illusion. But even that is not absolute, as individuals creatively push against and transform even the most sacred traditions around the end of life. This article is about end-of-life choices in contemporary societies, and predominantly Western industrialized countries, and the role of culture in shaping those choices.
Metallographic Image Processing Tools Using Mathematica Manipulate

The objective of this research is to present digital image processing (DIP) modules specifically designed for use with metallographic images. The goal of the application is to make digital processing algorithms accessible to users with limited background in programming, a specific interest in metallurgical applications of DIP, and the need to setup interactive, easily modified modules.
Recent Advances in Electron Beam Addressed Memories

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews that the promise of the electron beam as a means of addressing large quantities of digital information with high speed and low systems cost has intrigued many workers, since the early days of modern computing machines. The major advantages of any beam memory, whether photons, electrons, or ions, lies in its ability to address a location on the storage surface randomly from the third dimension. The beam is a flexible interconnection that eliminates the need for extensive hard wiring and, as such, introduces considerable flexibility into the memory design itself. Relatively large amounts of data are stored, using few components, with the consequent advantage of low cost. This review is limited to the electron beam addressed memories (EBAMs) with emphasis focused on write/read systems rather than on data recording. The objective is to review the current status of research and, in so doing, stimulate activity in an area that appears fundamentally attractive. The references are extensive but not exhaustive.
Link System Performance

This chapter contains sections titled: Link Considerations Uplink Downlink Percent of Time Performance Specifications References Problems
Science, Reading, and Renaissance Literature: The Art of Making Knowledge, 1580-1670

Science, Reading, and Renaissance Literature brings together key works in early modern science and imaginative literature (from the anatomy of William Harvey and the experimentalism of William Gilbert to the fictions of Philip Sidney, Edmund Spenser and Margaret Cavendish). The book documents how what have become our two cultures of belief define themselves through a shared aesthetics that understands knowledge as an act of making. Within this framework, literary texts gain substance and intelligibility by being considered as instances of early modern knowledge production. At the same time, early modern science maintains strong affiliations with poetry because it understands art as a basis for producing knowledge. In identifying these interconnections between literature and science, this book contributes to scholarship in literary history, history of reading and the book, science studies and the history of academic disciplines.
Digital controller design for buck and boost converters using root locus techniques

Root locus techniques to design digital controllers for buck and boost converters are discussed in this paper. The small signal models of both converters are first transformed into discrete-time models using the matched pole-zero mapping method. Digital controllers are designed based on the discrete-time model using the root locus method. By selecting the poles, zeros and gain of the digital controllers, the closed-loop poles are placed at desired locations in the z-plane. The digital controllers are then implemented on a TI DSP. The root locus design method is compared with the frequency response design method. Experimental results from the buck converter indicate that the results obtained using the root locus method are comparable to the results obtained using the frequency response method, while results from the boost converter indicate the nonlinear nature of the boost converter small signal model may degrade the performance of the design using the root locus method.
Human Space Exploration Is About More Than Just Science

There are roles for both robots and humans in the scientific exploration of space. In this Policy Forum, [Huntress][1] argues that human exploration of space is motivated by societal factors other than science, but science should be a motivating force in defining human exploration goals. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/301/5634/771
Evaluation of meat in the infant diet.

A commercially prepared lean meat was fed to young infants as a supplement to a diet already adequate in all food factors. In those infants first fed meat under 2 months of age, there was improvement in physical growth as determined by weight and height measurements. The same group demonstrated an improvement in hemoglobin levels; the elimination of the physiologic drop in total protein levels of the serum, with a prompt sustained rise in values, the greater part of which was composed of the globulin fraction. In those infants first fed meat after 2 months of age, there was a slight improvement in average weight gain, but no significant difference was noted in other body measurements, total protein, albumin or globulin fractions, or hemoglobin levels. Illness rates for the two years of the study demonstrated a 40% lower morbidity rate in the meat-fed group as compared to the control group. In striving for the optimum in infant nutrition protein requirements should be evaluated both quantitatively and qualitatively.
Mapping apolipoprotein B on the low density lipoprotein surface by immunoelectron microscopy.

Apolipoprotein B (apoB) was mapped using electron microscopy to visualize pairs of monoclonal antibodies binding to the low density lipoprotein (LDL) surface. The sites at which these monoclonals bind the apoB polypeptide sequence had already been established. The angular distances between all possible pairs of binding sites except one allowed the relative placement of six epitopes on the LDL sphere. We conclude that apoB extends over at least a hemisphere of the LDL surface since four epitopes are located in the Northern Hemisphere at sites arbitrarily designated as the North Pole, the Aleutian Islands, Bogota, and in the Atlantic Ocean, while two are found in the Southern Hemisphere at Buenos Aires and at Madagascar. ApoB appears to possess a restricted flexibility, since these relative epitope locations show a substantial standard deviation in latitude and longitude. Mapping of additional epitopes may provide an answer to the question of whether apoB circumnavigates the LDL sphere.
NonStop/spl reg/ advanced architecture

For nearly 30 years the Hewlett Packard NonStop Enterprise Division (formerly Tandem Computers Inc.) has produced highly available, fault-tolerant, massively parallel NonStop computer systems. These vertically integrated systems use a proprietary operating system and specialized hardware for detecting, isolating, and recovering from faults. The NonStop advanced architecture (NSAA) uses dual or triple modular redundant fault-tolerant servers built from standard HP 4-way SMP Itanium/spl reg/2 server processor modules, memory boards, and power infrastructure. A unique synchronization mechanism allows fully compared operations from loosely synchronized processor modules. In addition, the NSAA improves system availability by additional hardware fault masking, and significantly lowers cost by leveraging existing high-volume Itanium server components.
The Illiquidity of CDS Market: Evidence From Index Inclusion

Is the CDS market liquid? Researchers claim that CDS market is liquid and thus the spreads reflect pure default risk. We investigate this claim. Since it is hard to measure liquidity precisely, we use an event study when a CDS is included into the CDX index. This event changes the liquidity of CDS because the liquidity of CDX will flow through individual CDSs. If the CDS market is liquid, we should observe no change because index inclusion does not change default risk. However, we find significant abnormal spread increase after index inclusion, but the change is not permanent. Contrary to the belief, index inclusion temporarily reduces the liquidity of CDS market due to the spike of demand and dealers' inventory risk. Order imbalance causes price impact as dealers manage their inventory risk. Index exclusion however has no effect on CDS spreads.
Manifestations of Heterosis in Grain Sorghum

The phenomenon of heterosis or hybrld vigor is of much interest to plant breeders, from both an academic and a practical point of view. The utilization of heterosis in various crops throughout the world has tremendously increased the production of hum* food and livestock feed. Probably the classic example of changes that can be brought about through the discovery, acceptance and utilization of the phenomenon of heterosis is the story of hybrid corn. The demonstration of inbreeding depression and the restored or increased vigor obtained upon crossing of the inbred lines is quite vivid in the cross-pollimted crop of corn. Inbreeding depression in self-pollinated crops is minlmal since inbreeding is the normal method of reproduction. Nevertheless, heterosis is evldent in many hybrids of self-p~lllnated plants and the primary factor limiting commercial utilization of hybrlds in these species is an economical method of producing the hybrid seed.....
Statistical Review for Medical Journals

Medical journals increasingly use statistical consultants to review statistical aspects of submitted papers. The article discusses the issues that arise in the reviewing process, with particular reference to articles reporting randomized trials or epidemiological studies. Keywords: publication; clinical trial; epidemiology
Modeling mitral valve leaflets from three-dimensional ultrasound

The geometry of the mitral leaflets, most commonly viewed using three-dimensional ultrasound, is an important input for mechanical models predicting valve closure. Current methods for leaflet modeling from ultrasound either require extensive user interaction, rely on inaccurate assumptions, or produce generic results. The presented method for modeling the mitral leaflets from three-dimensional ultrasound of an open mitral valve is automatic and able to capture patient specific geometry. The method requires as an input the location of the mitral annulus, which we generate semi-automatically using our previously designed method. No additional user interaction is required. The leaflet modeling algorithm operates by first constructing an extended surface at the location of the leaflets which extends beyond the leaflet edges into the blood pool, and then trims the surface to the observed length of the leaflets. Preliminary results suggest the leaflet modeling method, combined with our previous method for annulus segmentation, generates accurate patient-specific mitral valve models.
Role of child weight status and the relative reinforcing value of food in children's response to portion size increases

Objective Food portion size is an important determinant of intake in children. It remains unknown if children's weight status and relative reinforcing value of food (RRVF) interact with portion size to affect intake. Methods In a randomized crossover design, 25 normal-weight and 25 obese children, ages 8-10 years, consumed dinner once a week for 3 weeks. At each dinner, the same meal was served, but the portion size of all foods (chicken nuggets, hash browns, ketchup, green beans, brownies) and a sugar-sweetened beverage (fruit punch) varied across conditions (100, 150, and 200%). Children's RRVF was assessed using a behavioral choice task. Results There was a significant main effect of portion size condition (P = 0.003) and weight status (P = 0.0005) and a nonsignificant trend for a portion size-by-weight status interaction (P = 0.108) on intake. Mean intakes across conditions (100, 150, and 200%) were 801 ± 57, 964 ± 58, and 873 ± 57 kcal for normal-weight children and 1041 ± 57, 1129 ± 57, and 1210 ± 57 kcal for obese children, respectively. Neither the main effect of RRVF status nor the condition-by-RRVF status interaction was significant (P > 0.48). Conclusions Environments that offer large portions of palatable foods affect all children's intake irrespective of their weight status or how reinforcing they find food to be.
Construction of Designs

Gold is where you find it. The same is true of designs. There are many ways to construct designs all of which work some of the time. The most valuable tool is a group G of automorphisms. If the order of G is large this can make the construction easy. We can start with some part of the incidence matrix, say rows or columns, or with a subdesign.
Patterns of obsessive compulsive symptoms in Tourette subjects are independent of severity.

Studies have examined the expression of obsessive compulsive (OC) symptoms in obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), OCD with co-occurring Tourette's Syndrome (TS) or chronic motor tic disorder (CMT) and TS alone. In adult samples, there appears to be a relatively consistent OC symptom thematic content that characterizes OCD alone and OCD in conjunction with tics or TS. Previous studies have controlled for the severity of OC symptoms in OCD and TS groups. In the current study, it was our objective to determine whether patterns of OC symptoms in TS are independent of OC symptom severity. The current exploratory study examined OC symptom expression in a nonclinically based TS sample with a broad range of OC symptoms and severity and a selected clinical OCD sample without TS/tics. Univariate and multivariate statistical analysis explored patterns of OC symptom expression between the two groups. Similar to previous reports examining OC symptoms in OCD and OCD with TS/tics, subjects with OCD alone were characterized by contamination obsessions and cleaning compulsions. In contrast, TS subjects had more somatic, sexual and symmetry obsessions and more checking, counting and touching/blinking compulsions, independent of OC symptom and tic severity. A discriminant function using obsessive items alone correctly grouped 91.4% of cases. The current study replicates patterns of OC symptom expression unique to OCD alone. Patterns of OC symptoms, in particular obsessive symptoms, can robustly predict membership in OCD or TS groups, even with a substantial variation in OC symptom severity as measured by the Y-BOCS score. Anxiety 1:268–274 (1994/1995). © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
What Goes Around Comes Around: Why the US is Responsible for Capital Flight (and What it Can Do about It)

The US learned the hard way that trying to attract foreign capital by not withholding and not collecting information is a recipe for undermining US taxation of Americans. FATCA now offers a way forward to cooperate with other countries that wish to tax their wealthy residents on all income “from whatever source derived.”
We Grew Up Together: Brothers and Sisters in Nineteenth-Century America

The first book on 19th century siblings--as informative for today's families as it is accurate about those in the 19th century, Atkins shows how brothers and sisters provide vital familial links with each other that last. This book also tells good stories, and engages the reader in the lives of real people in the past.
Stress-Tolerant Feedstocks for Sustainable Bioenergy Production on Marginal Land

Given the mandated increases in fuel production from alternative sources, limited high-quality production land, and predicted climate changes, identification of stress-tolerant biomass crops will be increasingly important. However, existing literature largely focuses on the responses of a small number of crops to a single source of abiotic stress. Here, we provide a much-needed review of several types of stress likely to be encountered by biomass crops on marginal lands and under future climate scenarios: drought, flooding, salinity, cold, and heat. The stress responses of 17 leading biomass crops of all growth habits (e.g., perennial grasses, short-rotation woody crops, and large trees) are summarized, and we identify several that could be considered “all purpose” for multiple stress types. Importantly, we note that some of these crops are or could become invasive in some landscapes. Therefore, growers must take care to avoid dissemination of plants or propagules outside of cultivation.
Resolving ambiguities in the parsing of translation grammars

During the course of the Chameleon Research Project, situations arose in which ambiguities during LR parsing could not be solved by conventional deterministic means. The source of this problem and the implemented solution are presented.
The effect of density on the level of bias in the network autocorrelation model

Abstract Researchers interested in the effects of social network ties on behavior are increasingly turning to the network autocorrelation model, which allows for the simultaneous computation of individual-level and network-level effects. Earlier research, however, had pointed to the possibility that the maximum likelihood estimates used to compute the network autocorrelation model yielded negatively biased parameter estimates. In this paper we use simulations to examine whether – and the conditions under which – a negative bias exists. We show that the network parameter estimate ρ is negatively biased under nearly all conditions, and that this bias becomes more severe at higher levels of both ρ and network density. We conclude by discussing the implications of these findings for researchers planning to use the network autocorrelation model.
Effects of Nortriptyline and Paroxetine on Postural Sway in Depressed Elderly Patients

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) have previously been found to be related to an increased incidence of falls in elderly persons. Recent pharmacoepidemiologic and nursing home studies have suggested that the risk of falls and fractures in elderly patients receiving selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) is not different from that of patients receiving TCAs. The authors therefore evaluated postural sway in an older population of depressed patients randomly assigned to treatment with either nortriptyline or paroxetine and did not find any change in postural sway after 6 weeks' treatment with either antidepressant. Further studies with other SSRIs are needed.
Thermally initiated HF chemical laser

The ClN3 explosion has been used to thermally decompose NF3 and SF6 into fluorine atoms which react with H2 producing HF laser action. The reaction of H atom on fluorine bearing species is indicated by 4→3 HF laser transitions.
“We do not hire smokers”: May employers discriminate against smokers?

Smoking employees are less healthy than nonsmokers, are absent more, make more and more expensive claims for health and disability benefits, and endanger co-workers who breathe smoky air. Employers may establish smoke-free workplaces, but—beyond that—employers may absolutely discriminate against smokers. Absent some common-law or statutory prohibition, employers are free to hire whomever they wish. The Americans with Disability Act prohibits discrimination against “disabled” applicants or employees, but smokers are not “disabled,” nor “regarded as” being disabled. Moreover, statutory construction does not lead to the conclusion that smokers are “disabled.” Since the policy of government is to discourage smoking, and discrimination against smokers promotes nonsmoking, such discrimination is not only not illegal, it is good social policy.
Salvador Dalí: Modernism's Counter-Muse

(1999). Salvador Dali: Modernism's Counter-Muse. Romance Quarterly: Vol. 46, No. 4, pp. 230-238.
Validation of a fixed-base automotive simulator for run-off-road safety and recovery training

Traffic fatalities and injuries continue to demand the attention of researchers and governments across the world as they remain significant factors in public health and safety. Enhanced legislature, together with vehicle and roadway technology, has helped to reduce the impact of traffic crashes in many scenarios. However, one specifically troublesome area of traffic safety which persists is the run-off-road crash where a vehicle’s wheels leave the paved portion of the roadway and begin to travel on the shoulder or side of the road. Large percentages of fatal and injury traffic crashes are attributed to run-off-road events. One of the most critical reasons why run-off-road scenarios quickly evolve into serious crashes is poor driver performance. Drivers are unprepared to handle the situation safely and often execute dangerous maneuvers, such as overcorrection, which can lead to devastating results. One countermeasure which directly addresses the driver performance is driver education and training. In this ...
Electronic medical record compliance and continuity in delivery of care: an empirical investigation in a combat environment

Electronic medical records (EMRs) are central to continuity in delivery of care in a combat environment. Yet, despite their benefits, technological advances, and legislation mandating their use, EMRs are not widely diffused in the U.S. military. Several contextual factors, such as armed conflict, multiple layers of bureaucracy, inconsistent rotation schedules, and competing goals, contribute to the complexity and difficulty of EMR implementation in a combat environment. This study applies a principal–agent perspective to understand barriers to EMR policy compliance in the U.S. military. Using a unique data set collected over a 105-week period, we investigate the implementation and effect of monitoring and sanctions on EMR compliance in combat support hospitals. Our results show that monitoring and sanctions positively impact the rate of EMR completion, yet they have no effect on the rate of EMRs started. Our results have implications for research and policy on EMR compliance and implementation in vertically integrated healthcare systems.
Effect of CP55,940 on mechanosensory spinal neurons following chronic inflammation

Cannabinoid receptor agonists have previously been shown to produce antinociceptive effects in rodent models of inflammatory pain. In the present study, we characterized responses of spinal dorsal horn neurons receiving sensory input from the hind paw in rats that had received intraplantar injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA), and examined effects of the nonselective CB1/2 receptor agonist CP55,940 on spinal neuron responses. Systemic (i.v.) administration of CP55,940 failed to attenuate responses of dorsal horn neurons to noxious mechanical stimulation in naive rats, but significantly reduced responses in CFA-inflamed rats to 25.78+/-13.7% of vehicle control at a cumulative dose of 0.8 mg/kg (ID50=0.28+/-0.02 mg/kg). Additionally, local administration of CP55,940 (10 microM) to the spinal cord reduced responses of mechanosensory dorsal horn neurons in CFA-inflamed rats to 67.15+/-7.1% of vehicle control. The inhibitory action of CP55,940 on spinal dorsal horn neurons in CFA-inflamed rats was mediated by CB1 receptors since local pretreatment with the CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 (10 microM) blocked this effect, while the CB2 receptor antagonist AM630 (10 microM) was ineffective. Our results suggest that following inflammation, the inhibition of spinal nociceptive transmission by CP55,940 is mediated in part by spinal CB1 receptors, and not spinal CB2 receptors.
Influence of Altered Body Weight on Energy Expenditure

Long-term metabolic studies indicate that overfeeding and underfeeding to gain and lose body weight produce consistent increases and decreases in energy expenditure. These changes occur in both lean and obese subjects and cause deviations from the normal relationship between energy expenditure and metabolic body size. The low energy expenditure/metabolic body size in the reduced obese may contribute to the difficulty in maintaining the reduced body weight.
Platelet Interactions With the Vessel Wall and Prosthetic Grafts

Most physicians are aware of the important role that platelets play in thrombus formation. The mechanisms that regulate platelet function are now understood at the molecular level. The same biologic processes that control platelet participation in the hemostatic process also allow platelets to interact with the vessel wall. This review will describe the interaction of platelets with the vessel wall and prosthetic grafts and the physiologic basis and clinical contribution of platelet inhibition to long-term graft patency.
Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection

All providers, regardless of specialty, should perform screening for HBV on high-risk persons, especially those born in endemic countries. The primary care physician can perform the initial evaluation and follow-up of patients with chronic HBV by following the algorithm in this article and consulting with specialists when appropriate. Chronically infected patients should be followed on a regular basis, preferably every 6 months, with liver function tests, and when appropriate, HBV DNA levels. Those who meet the criteria for high risk for HCC should undergo liver ultrasound every 6 months. Powerful antiviral medications are available that can suppress but not cure HBV and result in resolution of liver inflammation and fibrosis, even cirrhosis, as well as decrease the risk of developing HCC. They should be used in those patients who meet the criteria outlined in the practice guidelines of the major liver societies.
Flux quantization without off-diagonal long range order in a thin hollow cylinder

Abstract We point out that a hollow, cylindrically shaped superconductor can be thin enough so as to rule out Off-Diagonal Long Range Order (ODLRO) but thick enough to display flux quantization.
The effectiveness of the external distal aiming device in intramedullary fixation of tibial shaft fractures

Intramedullary nailing has become a popular and effective procedure for the treatment of most fractures of the tibial diaphysis. However, distal interlocking screw placement under fluoroscopic control is responsible for the majority of the radiation exposure and a significant loss of surgical time in the entire nailing procedure. To limit fluoroscopy use, during distal interlocking screw placement, Orthofix® has developed a distal targeting device which compensates for the inevitable deformation of the nail in the sagittal plane during its insertion. This prospective clinical study evaluates the efficacy of this distal targeting device for distal locking. One hundred and fifteen fresh tibial fractures in the same number of patients with a mean age of 37.5 years (17–85 years) were treated with operative stabilization using the Orthofix tibial nailing system. The mean duration of the operation was 38 min (20–55 min). A mean of four intra-operative plain X-rays (2–6 X-rays) were used in 103 cases to confirm guide wire placement, final nail insertion and accuracy of screws placement. The mean duration of the use of the image intensifier utilized in the remaining 12 fractures was 5 s (3–8 s). The distal targeting device failed in 12 (5.2%) distal locking screws. This study demonstrates that distal locking can be performed easily and successfully with minimal exposure to radiation, once the surgeon develops a reasonable experience with the use of this distal targeting device.
Binding of 125I-gamma interferon to cultured human keratinocytes.

Abstract Gamma interferon (IFN-γ), a product of activated lymphocytes, influences keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation. Recombinant gamma interferon (r-IFN-γ) was radioiodinated using the Bolton-Hunter reagent and retained 90% of its biologic activity as determined by induction of HLA-DR expression. The biochemical ligand-binding properties of iodinated IFN-γ to cultured human keratinocytes revealed a plateau of binding at 150 min at 4°C, and a single class of specific high affinity receptors (kD = 1.3 × 10 −10 m; 2200 sites/cell). The binding of human IFN-γ, to keratinocytes was inhibited by human r-IFN-γ, but not by either murine recombinant gamma interferon or human recombinant beta interferon (r-IFN-β). The presence of high affinity receptor sites on human keratinocytes assures the reception of appropriate immunologic signals in lymphocyte-keratinocyte interactions.
Expression of Unconventional Myosin Genes During Neuronal Development in Zebrafish

Neuronal migration and growth cone motility are essential aspects of the development and maturation of the nervous system. These cellular events result from dynamic changes in the organization and function of the cytoskeleton, in part due to the activity of cytoskeletal motor proteins such as myosins. Although specific myosins such as Myo2 (conventional or muscle myosin), Myo1, and Myo5 have been well characterized for roles in cell motility, the roles of the majority of unconventional (other than Myo2) myosins in cell motility events have not been investigated. To address this issue, we have undertaken an analysis of unconventional myosins in zebrafish, a premier model for studying cellular and growth cone motility in the vertebrate nervous system. We describe the characterization and expression patterns of several members of the unconventional myosin gene family. Based on available genomic sequence data, we identified 18 unconventional myosin- and 4 Myo2-related genes in the zebrafish genome in addition to previously characterized myosin (1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7) genes. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that these genes can be grouped into existing classifications for unconventional myosins from mouse and man. In situ hybridization analyses using EST probes for 18 of the 22 identified genes indicate that 11/18 genes are expressed in a restricted fashion in the zebrafish embryo. Specific myosins are expressed in particular neuronal or neuroepithelial cell types in the developing zebrafish nervous system, spanning the periods of neuronal differentiation and migration, and of growth cone guidance and motility.
Boundary between quantum and classical noise dominance in a fiber Raman generator

Understanding the impact of distinct sources of noise in applications of nonlinear optics is very important since it allows one to manage the statistical properties of the generated signal. Two classes of noise will impact the stability of the output signal of a nonlinear system: classical noise from the system’s coupling to a noisy environment and quantum noise that is an inescapable part of the nonlinear interaction. In this paper we present measurements of the pulse energy statistics associated with weak Raman generation in optical fiber driven by noisy pump pulses. The results outline distinct domains where classical pump noise and quantum noise dominate the output statistics.
Interpretation of Contrast Dispersal Patterns by Experienced and Inexperienced Interventionalists

Objective Determine how accurately inexperienced interventionalists interpret epidural contrast dispersal patterns compared with experienced interventionalists. Design Prospective comparative study. Setting University spine center. Participants Two experienced interventionalists and 3 pain fellows in training. Methods Each participant independently interpreted 100 images showing contrast dispersal patterns from transforaminal epidural injections. All images were obtained by another physician after 0.5 mL of contrast material was injected. The true contrast dispersal pattern was determined under live fluoroscopy during the injection and classified as follows: epidural only, vascular only, or simultaneous epidural and vascular. Participants were told to assume that 0.5 mL of contrast had been injected before each image and were asked to describe the contrast patterns as epidural, vascular, both, or neither. Main Outcome Measure Variance in agreement with the true contrast patterns between experienced and inexperienced participants. Results Overall, the inexperienced participants were in exact agreement with the true pattern in 52% of the images versus 70% for experienced participants ( P =.03). Experienced participants correctly identified epidural contrast patterns with greater accuracy than inexperienced participants (94% and 76%, respectively; P =.01). Not surprisingly, the accuracy for all participants was low in the identification of vascular patterns on these static images, with 73% accuracy for the experienced and 68% for the inexperienced ( P =.18). Conclusion Even with 6 months of intensive experience, trainees are significantly less accurate than experienced physicians in the interpretation of contrast dispersal patterns from transforaminal epidural injections. The competency of interventional trainees and the amount of experience necessary to safely perform epidural injections deserve further examination.
The young adult patient presenting with oligodontia: diagnostic and management strategies

Patients with various forms of ectodermal dysplasia often present with oligodontia, aplastic dento-alveolar ridges, malformed teeth and hyposalivation. Management and support follow a continuum from early childhood to adulthood. In addition, management strategies impact on the patient’s perceived quality of life (QOL) as well as on the outcomes of care. The role of the Prosthodontics team is to diagnose, educate and provide care plans that address the range of issues concerning the young adult needing tooth replacement therapy. These often involve ceramic restorations, oral implants and fixed and removable prostheses. Ultimately, the diagnostic phase is critical and requires an interdisciplinary care team leading to rational care plans. Long-term data with regard to oral implant outcomes, complex reconstructions and the impact on QOL will be discussed. There are ranges of treatment options with different advantages and challenges. The young adult with ectodermal dysplasia therefore needs to understand the critical points of assessment, the process of informed consent, the individual care plan, and the possible outcomes of care when electing to perform tooth replacement.
MK-208, a novel histamine H2-receptor inhibitor with prolonged antisecretory effect.

MK-208 is a guanidinothiazole derivative reported to be a potent H2 blocker devoid of antiandrogenic activity. Its potency and duration of action, in inhibiting pentagastrinstimulated gastric secretion in man, was evaluated in this double-blind, five-way crossover trial. Ten healthy male volunteers received single oral doses of placebo, cimetidine 300 mg, and MK-208 5, 10, and 20 mg. A continuous intravenous infusion of pentagastrin (1 μg/kg/hr) was given 2–4 and 5–7 hr after each oral dose. Gastric contents were continuously aspirated and volumes and acid content determined every 30 min. Plasma levels for MK-208 and cimetidine were monitored over the 7 hr of the study. Cimetidine and all doses of MK-208 significantly inhibited gastric acid secretion in the initial 2–4 hr; however, 10- and 20-mg doses of MK-208 were significantly more potent than cimetidine. In the 5- to 7-hr period, cimetidine 300 mg was not different from placebo, while MK-208 in all doses studied continued to significantly suppress gastric secretion. Plasma levels for MK-208 showed dose-related increments. The results suggest that: (1) MK-208 is a potent inhibitor of gastric secretion in man, in a dose-related fashion at the doses tested; (2) under the study conditions, 5 mg MK-208 was equipotent to 300 mg cimetidine but with greater duration of action, extending at least 7 hr; and (3) these data suggest a future role for this new agent in therapy for acid-peptic disease in man.
Mitochondrial encephalomyopathies—Fifty years on: The Robert Wartenberg Lecture

This lecture honors the memory of Robert Wartenberg, who was born in Lithuania, trained in Germany, and in 1935 moved to the United States, where he started his second career as a scholar and teacher at the University of California, San Francisco.1 The author thanks Drs. Eric A. Schon and Michio Hirano for collaboration and Pablo Abreu for help with the figures.
High strain rate mechanical behavior of seashell-mimetic composites: Analytical model formulation and validation

Abstract Seashells (esp. Nacre, or mother-of-pearl) have attracted a substantial attention of the scientific community over the last decade. What makes it as a role model for bio-inspiration is its strength and specifically, superior toughness owing to the synergistic effect of its inorganic and organic components and its unique architecture at its most elementary level, i.e., brick and mortar architecture. Note that preponderance of the studies in literature is limited to quasi-static loading scenario. This is intriguing given the fact that both these materials are fundamentally used as a basic structural material for synthesizing and in orchestrating complex load bearing/shielding structures against predatory impact/crush attack. In our current investigation, an attempt has been made to predict the strength of these types of composites under dynamic regime by development of an analytical model, followed by experimental verification under high-strain rates using Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB). Two types of ceramic–polymer composites were tested which were prepared via freeze casting technique. A reasonable agreement has been observed between the analytically predicted and experimentally observed values. Manifestation of dynamic self-stiffening behavior by these types of composites will find particular relevance in application of these types of composites as protective material when subjected to ballistic impact. Understanding the mechanical behavior of these types of composites under dynamic rates of loading will provide insights on the applicability of hybrid bio-inspired composites as protective materials.
Azoxymethane-induced colon tumors and aberrant crypt foci in mice of different genetic susceptibility

Azoxymethane (AOM) is an organotropic colon carcinogen that is commonly used to induce colon tumors in rodents. Unlike its parent compound, 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH), a tumor susceptibility phenotype in inbred mice with respect to AOM has not been established. Thus, this study was undertaken to determine whether genetic susceptibility extends to this carcinogen. SWR/J, A/J (both susceptible to DMH carcinogenesis) and AKR/J (resistant) mice were treated with 10 mg/kg AOM i.p. once a week for 8 weeks. Twenty-five weeks after the initial injection, tumor yield was determined. With a single exception, only SWR/J and A/J mice developed tumors, with a distribution that was limited to the distal colon (16.3+/-1.1 and 36.4+/-2.4. respectively). The formation of aberrant crypt foci (ACF), putative preneoplastic lesions, was also assessed in whole-mount colons using Methylene Blue staining. Consistent with tumor multiplicity, the total number of ACF was highest in A/J mice, followed by SWR/J mice. In addition, A/J mice had a significantly greater number of large ACF (five or more crypts per foci) than the other strains. Despite the absence of colon tumors, however, AKR/J mice did develop a significant number of ACF. This finding suggests that ACF in resistant mice are persistent but do not progress to tumors.