cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Peculiar behavior of blood at solid interfaces

Adsorption of proteins out of normal and afibrinogenemic blood plasma onto oxidized silicon crystal slices and glass was studied with the recording ellipsometer and by other means. Adsorbed matter was identified by its ability to adsorb specific antibody or to function in blood clotting. Our previous data suggest that fibrinogen as well as factor XII (the protein thought responsible for surface activation of clotting) are adsorbed first. If the plasma was not previously activated, it converts this fibrinogen, and then, in the presence of unactivated factor XII, it removes some. Both conversion and removal are retarded by previous activation of the plasma, or by lowering its concentration or temperature. Blood platelets (the elements that start thrombosis in vivo) adhere most to films on glass that contain unconverted fibrinogen. Present data suggest that plasma from a patient totally lacking plasma fibrinogen, had all properties of normal plasma when fibrinogen was added. Fibrinogen in bulk or pre-adsorbed state neither helped nor hindered adsorption of factor XII activity. After prolonged contact of normal plasma with an activating interface, adsorbed fibrinogen could be recovered by elution. Readsorption was then followed by reconversion.
Treatment of the ameloblastoma. A controversy

Treatment of the ameloblastoma should be re-evaluated based on microscopic behavior. We suggest that conservative therapy is the initial treatment of choice. Although medullary bone is invaded by tumor cells, compact bone only is eroded. Therefore, treatment should be directed at removal of involved medullary bone, leaving as much medial and lateral cortical plates and inferior mandibular border as possible. Four patients with ameloblastoma treated conservatively are presented. Evaluation from 21 months to seven years after initial therapy revealed marked bone regeneration. Three of the four had smaller lesions remaining, requiring less radical surgery than would normally have been performed initially. No tumor was evident on rebiopsy of the fourth patient. Conservative treatment and proper follow-up were acceptable methods of initial treatment in our cases.
Intramuscular myxoma of the paraspinal muscles: A case report and systematic review of the literature

Intramuscular myxoma (IM) is a rare mesenchymal tumor of the head and neck region. The current study reports a case of a 45-year-old man who presented with a painless neck mass. Imaging showed involvement of the levator scapulae and scalene muscles. Core needle biopsy was consistent with intramuscular myxoma. Surgical excision was performed and follow-up for 30 months showed no recurrence. The present study includes a systematic review of head and neck IMs, with a summary of the clinical and demographic parameters of all reported cases in the head and neck region. Surgery was curative in 28 of the 29 published cases, as well as in the current case (96.7%), with the lone recurrent tumor cured following re-resection. Females constituted 57% of the cases and the mean age was 49.7±20.4 years. Although uncommon, IM should be considered in the differential diagnosis of deep neck masses, and surgical excision is the treatment of choice with a low risk of recurrence.
Improving the TiO2 electron transport layer in perovskite solar cells using acetylacetonate-based additives

We developed a facile and quantitative method to improve the electron transport properties and resulting device performances of perovskite solar cells based on post-incorporation of various acetylacetonate additives. Previous studies rely on synthesis or soaking processes with limited additive control. Here, our acetylacetonated-based additives are used as effective intermediate gels to interact with TiO2 nanocrystals using a simple approach. The incorporation process can be controlled effectively and quantitatively using a range of additives from divalent (II), trivalent (III), and tetravalent (IV) to hexavalent (VI) acetylacetonate. Electronic parameters of solar cell devices, such as short circuit current (Jsc) and fill factor (FF), are enhanced, regardless of the different valencies of the additives. Zirconium(IV) acetylacetonate was found to be the most effective additive, with average PCE improved from 15.0% to 15.8%. Detailed characterization experiments including transient photoluminescence spectra, ultra-violet photoelectron spectroscopy, photovoltage decay, and photocurrent decay indicate an improved interface with improved carrier extraction originating from the TiO2 modification.
Thrombospondin-1, endothelium and systemic vascular tone.

Evaluation of: Bauer EM, Qin Y, Miller TW et al.: Thrombospondin-1 supports blood pressure by limiting eNOS activation and endothelial dependent vasorelaxation. Cardiovasc. Res. 88, 471–481 (2010). Several lines of evidence, both in vivo and ex vivo, suggest that thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) is important in maintaining systemic vascular tone. Recently published papers demonstrate that TSP-1 can inhibit vascular smooth muscle relaxation by interfering with the interaction between nitric oxide (NO) and soluble guanylyl cyclase, providing a possible mechanism of action to explain this observation. While these in vitro experiments in vascular smooth muscle cells were provocative, it is not clear how such a large protein circulating in the plasma could cross the intact endothelial basal membrane and regulate NO/cGMP signaling in smooth muscle in vivo. This raised the question of whether TSP-1 could modulate NO/cGMP signaling through another mechanism. Herein, we evaluate a recently published paper by Bauer and col...
Fibronectin-Facilitated Invasion of T84 Eukaryotic Cells by Campylobacter jejuni Occurs Preferentially at the Basolateral Cell Surface

Previous studies have indicated that the ability to bind to fibronectin is a key feature in successful cell invasion by Campylobacter jejuni. Given the spatial distribution of fibronectin and the architecture of the epithelium, this suggests the possibility that C. jejuni cell invasion might preferentially occur at the basolateral cell surface. To test this hypothesis, we examined the interaction of C. jejuni with T84 human colonic cells. When grown under the appropriate conditions, T84 cells form a polarized cell monolayer. C. jejuni translocation of a T84 cell monolayer appeared to occur via a paracellular (extracellular) route as opposed to a transcellular (intracellular) route based on the finding that a C. jejuni noninvasive mutant translocated as efficiently as its isogenic parent. Additional studies revealed that two distinct C. jejuni wild-type isolates could compete with one another for host cell receptors, whereas a C. jejuni fibronectin-binding-deficient mutant could not compete with a wild-type isolate for host cell receptors. Further, C. jejuni adherence and internalization were significantly inhibited by antifibronectin antibodies but only when cells were first treated with EGTA to expose basolateral cell surfaces. Together, these results support the theory that C. jejuni invasion occurs preferentially at the basolateral surface of eukaryotic cells.
The Iron−Sulfur Cluster of Pyruvate Formate-Lyase Activating Enzyme in Whole Cells: Cluster Interconversion and a Valence-Localized [4Fe-4S]2+ State

Pyruvate formate-lyase activating enzyme (PFL-AE) catalyzes the generation of a catalytically essential glycyl radical on pyruvate formate-lyase (PFL). Purified PFL-AE contains an oxygen-sensitive, labile [4Fe-4S] cluster that undergoes cluster interconversions in vitro, with only the [4Fe-4S]+ cluster state being catalytically active. Such cluster interconversions could play a role in regulating the activity of PFL-AE, and thus of PFL, in response to oxygen levels in vivo. Here we report a Mossbauer investigation on whole cells overexpressing PFL-AE following incubation under aerobic and/or anaerobic conditions and provide evidence that PFL-AE undergoes cluster interconversions in vivo. After 2 h aerobic induction of PFL-AE expression, approximately 44% of the total iron is present in [4Fe-4S]2+ clusters, 6% in [2Fe-2S]2+ clusters, and the remainder as noncluster FeIII (29%) and FeII (21%) species. Subsequent anaerobic incubation of the culture results in approximately 75% of the total iron being present...
Where the Family of God Is the Family: The Role of the Dead in Japanese Households

TWENTIETH century writers have found the concept of ancestor worship, like many other concepts of nineteenth century heritage, enfeebled from overwork. Already five decades ago William Crooke, summarizing the issue for Hasting's Encyclopedia of Religion and Ethics, complained that the term too often is applied to practices which do not involve ancestors and to practices which do not involve worship (Crooke 1917). Paul Radin, writing for the Encyclopedia of the Social Sciences, said the concept "still is vaguely defined" (Radin 1930). And in his eagerness to encompass all nuances of usage, Radin lapsed into a legalistic definition that still is vague.' In a more recent review, Leslie Spier rests content with defining ancestor worship in its broadest sense as "a form of religion emphasizing the influence of deceased kindred on the living" (1957:651). In recent years social anthropologists have sought to link ancestor worship with specific kinship groups and roles. They have been developing an approach favored in the nineteenth century by Robertson-Smith and Fustel de Coulanges. Radcliffe-Brown's work appears to be the most widely known and frequently cited (1952: Ch. 8), but many others have been enlarging upon the line of thinking he exemplifies (see especially Colson 1954; Firth 1955; Fortes 1960, 1961; Freedman 1958; Goody 1959, 1962; Gough 1958; Warner 1961). These studies show that there is little value in dealing with ancestor worship as an undifferentiated category. For many peoples recognize a variety of kindred souls who may be related to a variety of social groups through a variety of emotional ties.
Relating STDP to BCM

We demonstrate that the BCM learning rule follows directly from STDP when pre- and postsynaptic neurons fire uncorrelated or weakly correlated Poisson spike trains, and only nearest-neighbor spike interactions are taken into account.
Budget System Reform in Transitional EconomiesThe Case of the Former Yugoslav Republics

For the republics of the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY) as for many other transition economies, an important step in introducing a more market-oriented system was the restructuring of their budget systems. This paper reviews and evaluates the process of budget system reform during the transition period extending from the time they emerged from the collapse of the SFRY in 1989 until the end of 2002. For at least a decade of this period, the Fiscal Affairs Department of the IMF has been providing technical assistance (TA) to these countries to facilitate such reforms. Based on the material generated by this effort, the authors offer a review of the progress made and an assessment of the reform elements still to be completed. Given that the former Yugoslav republics all commenced the reform process with the same institutions, this paper offers a unique opportunity to analyze the critical elements in successful budget system reform. An attempt is made to explain the varying degrees of success experienced by different countries, and a reform agenda is suggested to guide future TA.
Two Modes of Survival of Fission Yeast Without Telomerase

Deletion of the telomerase catalytic subunit gene trt1+ in Schizosaccharomyces pombe results in death for the majority of cells, but a subpopulation survives. Here it is shown that most survivors have circularized all of their chromosomes, whereas a smaller number maintain their telomeres presumably through recombination. When the telomeric DNA-binding gene taz1+ is also deleted, trt1- taz1- survivors use the recombinational mode more frequently. Moreover, the massive elongation of telomeres in taz1- cells is absent in the double mutant. Thus, Taz1p appears to regulate telomeric recombination as well as telomerase activity in fission yeast.
System design and performance of a unilateral horizontal semicircular canal prosthesis

We have reported preliminary results regarding a prototype semicircular canal prosthesis and concluded that it can provide rotational cues to the nervous system. This paper presents the system design of the prosthesis, and also reports the prosthesis system performance and effectiveness. The prosthesis delivers electrical pulses to the nerve branch innervating the horizontal semicircular canal on one side via implanted electrodes. To allow us to encode both directions of angular velocity, the baseline stimulation pulse frequency was set at 150 Hz, which is somewhat higher than the average firing rate of afferents innervating the semicircular canals in normal guinea pigs (/spl sim/ 60 Hz). A sensor measures angular velocity to modulate (increase or decrease) the pulse rate. The prosthetic system was provided to a guinea pig whose horizontal canals were surgically plugged. The animal responded to the baseline stimulation initially and adapted to the baseline stimulation in roughly one day. After this baseline adaptation the animal responded to yaw rotation, showing that the function of the canals was partially restored. The experiments also show that the nervous system adapts to the artificial rotational cue provided via electrical stimulation.
An optical multi-mesh hypercube: a scalable optical interconnection network for massively parallel computing

A new interconnection network for massively parallel computing is introduced. This network is called an optical multi-mesh hypercube (OMMH) network. The OMMH integrates positive features of both hypercube (small diameter, high connectivity, symmetry, simple control and routing, fault tolerance, etc.) and mesh (constant node degree and scalability) topologies and at the same time circumvents their limitations (e.g., the lack of scalability of hypercubes, and the large diameter of meshes). The OMMH can maintain a constant node degree regardless of the increase in the network size. In addition, the flexibility of the OMMH network makes it well suited for optical implementations. This paper presents the OMMH topology, analyzes its architectural properties and potentials for massively parallel computing, and compares it to the hypercube. Moreover, it also presents a three-dimensional optical design methodology based on free-space optics. The proposed optical implementation has totally space-invariant connection patterns at every node, which enables the OMMH to be highly amenable to optical implementation using simple and efficient large space-bandwidth product space-invariant optical elements. >
Estimating snow grain size using AVIRIS data

Estimates of snow grain size for the near-surface snow layer were calculated for the Tioga Pass region and Mammoth Mountain in the Sierra Nevada, California, using an inversion technique and data collected by the Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS). The Tioga Pass and Mammoth Mountain single-band AVIRIS radiance images were atmospherically corrected to obtain surface reflectance. A discrete-ordinate model was used to calculate directional reflectance as a function of snowpack grain size for a wide range of snow grain radii. The resulting radius vs. reflectance curves were each fit using a nonlinear least squares technique which provided a means of transforming surface reflectance in each AVIRIS image to optically equivalent grain size on a per-pixel basis. The model results and grain size estimates derived from the AVIRIS data show that, for solar incidence angles between 0 and 30, the technique provides good estimates of grain size. This work provides the first quantitative estimates for grain size using data acquired from an airborne remote sensing instrument and is an important step in improving our ability to retrieve snow physical properties independent of field measurements.
Structural stereopsis for 3-D vision

A novel approach to solving the stereo correspondence problem in computer vision is described. Structural descriptions of two two-dimensional views of a scene are extracted by one of possibly several available low-level processes, and a new theory of inexact matching for such structures is derived. An entropy-based figure of merit for attribute selection and ordering is defined. Experimental results applying these techniques to real image pairs are presented. Some manipulation experiments are briefly presented. >
Current Therapeutic Options in Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis

Therapies for relapsing-remitting pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) are aimed at preventing relapses (disease modifying therapies), treating acute attacks, and managing disabling cognitive and physical symptoms. Initial disease modifying therapy to prevent relapses should use one of four first-line injectable therapies that are approved for adult relapsing-remitting MS: interferon beta 1a IM, interferon beta 1a SC, interferon beta 1b SC, or glatiramer acetate. If breakthrough disease occurs or the medication is poorly tolerated, the next step should be to try one of the other first-line therapies. If the first-line therapies have been exhausted, second-line therapies such as natalizumab, cyclophosphamide, or mitoxantrone may be considered. One must use caution when choosing these potent therapies, as secondary effects may include serious infection or malignancy. Phase III studies in adult MS have been published on two oral agents, fingolimod and cladribine, and fingolimod has received FDA approval for use in relapsing-remitting MS in adults. These drugs have not been evaluated in the pediatric MS population, nor have any of three other oral agents now in phase III development: laquinimod, BG-12, and teriflunomide. Acute relapses can be treated with pulse methylprednisolone at a dosage of 20 to 30 mg/kg per day (maximum 1 g per day) for 3 to 5 days. If this is ineffective, intravenous immunoglobulin (2 g/kg divided over 2–5 days) or plasmapheresis may be considered. Neuropsychological, physical therapy, and occupational therapy screening should be performed on patients with pediatric MS. Interventions focusing on visual motor integration may be particularly useful in this group Spasticity may be treated with symptomatic therapies, but one must be aware of potential adverse effects of agents such as baclofen and diazepam. Headache, fatigue, anxiety, and depression are frequently seen, and patients may need a psychiatry consultation and counseling.
Precancer: Sequentially Acquired or Predetermined?

Recognition of focal morphological intraepithelial lesions associated with the eventual development of invasive cancer has long been the sine qua non of precancer. Empirically, precancers are associated with a morphological continuum from atypia to dysplasia and invasive neoplasia. Such lesions are used as early indicators of cancers and have dramatically reduced mortality from cancers of the colon, uterine cervix, and breast. Progression has been modeled as a linear, stepwise process. Some molecular evidence supports a linear model. However, clinical studies now suggest that preexisting cofactors such as human papilloma virus (HPV) in cervical cancer determines the cell fate. Other clinical studies such as bladder, prostate, and breast suggest that many intraepithelial lesions do not progress to malignancy. The more recent experimental analyses reveal that the key molecular and genetic events even predate the emergence of visible lesions. Thus, a new nonlinear, parallel model is proposed. The parallel model suggests an origin in a putative progenitor cell that expands and invades. The clinical outcome is thus predetermined. If correct, this model suggests that "progression" to malignancy is epigenetic. Further, future assessment of biological potential will involve identification and genetic analysis of the progenitor cell populations.
Imaging Fourier Transform Spectrometry of Combustion Events

The Telops, Inc., field-portable imaging radiometric spectrometer technology-midwave extended (FIRST-MWE) was characterized both spatially and spectrally, using blackbody sources in a climate-controlled laboratory environment. Individual pixel temperature variation of less than 0.5°C was demonstrated on a 32 × 32 pixel array while imaging a 3.5 in. blackbody at 65°C. A 150°C blackbody background source was imaged at a distance of 10 m with the FIRST-MWE set to a spectral resolution of 0.25 cm-1 and a 128 × 128 pixel window. The corresponding spectral radiance was fitted to a line-by-line radiative transfer model (LBLRTM) of the scene based on the HITRAN (high-resolution transmission) database with a high degree of precision. Following demonstration of satisfactory instrument performance in both spatial and spectral domains, hyperspectral and high-speed broadband infrared (IR) imagery of a propane torch in front of a blackbody background were obtained with the FIRST-MWE in spectral mode and camera mode, respectively. Hyperspectral algorithms were employed to differentiate plume from non-plume pixels. Future work will improve this algorithm so that, with proper thresholding, plume pixels can be extracted from the remaining data set. This approach will result in a significant level of data reduction prior to implementing more computer-intensive chemical and temperature analysis on the plume hyperspectral datacube. Finally, exhaust from a diesel-fueled Turbine Technologies, Ltd. SR-30 turbojet engine was imaged with the FIRST-MWE from a side-plume vantage point during steady-state operation in both spectral and camera mode.
Laryngotracheal paratubal air envelope: A useful sign in voice and airway reconstructive surgery

Aphonia, dysphonia, and laryngotracheal stenosis with upper airway compromise are diagnosed with increasing frequency. Endoscopic surgical reconstructive techniques accompanied by tracheal T-tube stenting successfully restore voice, airway function, and structure. Timing of tracheal T-tube removal remains controversial, particularly when the tip of the upper arm of the optimally sized T-tube is placed in a critical supraglottic position. The appearance of an air envelope, manifested as linear air densities between the outside wall of the T tube and the inside wall of the larynx and trachea, has proven to be a useful and reliable indicator of laryngotracheal structural integrity and functional stability. The paratubal air envelope sign is demonstrated by soft-tissue neck radiographs and delta scan topograms. This objective sign, videolaryngoscopy/stroboscopy, and clinical judgment combine to determine optimal timing for tracheal T-tube removal.
Seasonal analysis of Daphnia pulicaria swimming behavior

Our study documents individual swimming behavior of Daphnia pulicaria over a yearly cycle in a temperate lake. We collected D. pulicaria, a common freshwater zooplankton, from Lake Mendota on 10 dates between July 1994 and June 1995 from two depths, 2 m and 10 m. The Daphnia were rushed to the laboratory and video-taped as they swam in lake water under lake-ambient temperature and light conditions. Five-second swimming tracks of individual Daphnia were filmed and digitized using a motion analysis system. We measured average turning angle, swimming speed and sinking rate for each track. D. pulicaria swimming behavior varied over the annual cycle. We found significant differences in turning angle between depths and among months. Sinking rate and swimming speed were significantly different among months but not depths. Sinking rate and swimming speed were not significantly correlated with water temperature. Our results were contrary to Stokes' Law predictions, in that D. pulicaria had the slowest sinking speed in June, not in the winter when water temperatures were lowest and viscosity was highest. Body length was significantly correlated with all three swimming variables. We also studied swimming behavior in clonal populations of D. pulicaria in different concentrations of the alga, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. D. pulicaria did not change swimming speed, turning angle or sinking rate over a range of food concentrations. Finally, swimming behavior in a D. pulicaria clone, tested at two temperatures in the laboratory, confirmed the results from our seasonal study; Daphnia did not sink as predicted by changes in viscosity.
Marine trauma, envenomations, and intoxications.

When humans encounter marine creatures a variety of maladies may occur, ranging from dermatitis to life-threatening trauma, allergy, envenomations, or intoxications. The emergency physician should be prepared to recognize quickly and address appropriately the potential life threats, which are primarily neurologic, respiratory, and cardiovascular. A high degree of suspicion for these illnesses is needed. Intoxications may be especially confusing. Although most of the syndromes are self-limited and treatment supportive, time is of the essence if neuromuscular paralysis, hypotension, or respiratory compromise is present. Much folklore exists regarding detection and prevention of these entities and should be regarded as such. The last several decades have seen a marked increase in our knowledge base regarding these fascinating envenomations and intoxications. Research in the next several decades probably will produce a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic tools, which will further our understanding of, and ability to specifically manage, these syndromes. Language: en
Material Girls: Silk And Self-Fashioning In Tang China (618–907)

AbstractTang dynasty China was a fashionable place. Low-cut necklines, kaftans sewn from sumptuously brocaded silks, diaphanous shawls cut from resist-dyed silk gauze, and striped skirts elaborately patterned with rosettes abound in the visual and material archive. This article takes a closer look at the Tang woman’s wardrobe to show how changes in dress and shifts in the perceptions of dress signified the emergence of a fashion system. It argues that what manifested in the second half of the dynasty as hallmarks of a fashion system were produced by ruptures within the social, economic, and political fabric of society. Such rifts included a crisis in representation that stemmed from a loss of faith in clothing’s ability to accurately represent the status of the wearer, and spurred on by the expanding commercial society of the eighth and ninth centuries. But it was the silk industry that was the driving force of the Tang fashion system, as innovations in silk weaving and design supplied all the trappings f...
Clinical safety and effectiveness evaluation of a new antimicrobial wound dressing designed to manage exudate, infection and biofilm

The objective of this work was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a next-generation antimicrobial wound dressing (NGAD; AQUACEL® Ag+ Extra™ dressing) designed to manage exudate, infection and biofilm. Clinicians were requested to evaluate the NGAD within their standard protocol of care for up to 4 weeks, or as long as deemed clinically appropriate, in challenging wounds that were considered to be impeded by suspected biofilm or infection. Baseline information and post-evaluation dressing safety and effectiveness data were recorded using standardised evaluation forms. This data included wound exudate levels, wound bed appearance including suspected biofilm, wound progression, skin health and dressing usage. A total of 112 wounds from 111 patients were included in the evaluations, with a median duration of 12 months, and biofilm was suspected in over half of all wounds (54%). After the introduction of the NGAD, exudate levels had shifted from predominantly high or moderate to low or moderate levels, while biofilm suspicion fell from 54% to 27% of wounds. Wound bed coverage by tissue type was generally shifted from sloughy or suspected biofilm towards predominantly granulation tissue after the inclusion of the NGAD. Stagnant (65%) and deteriorating wounds (27%) were shifted to improved (65%) or healed wounds (13%), while skin health was also reported to have improved in 63% of wounds. High levels of clinician satisfaction with the dressing effectiveness and change frequency were accompanied by a low number of dressing-related adverse events (n = 3; 2·7%) and other negative observations or comments. This clinical user evaluation supports the growing body of evidence that the anti-biofilm technology in the NGAD results in a safe and effective dressing for the management of a variety of challenging wound types.
Spatial variability in adult brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) survival within two intensively surveyed headwater stream networks

Headwater stream networks are considered heterogeneous riverscapes, but it is challenging to characterize spatial variability in demographic rates. We estimated site-scale (50 m) survival of adult ...
Influence of family size on schizophrenic birth order.

A SIMPLE formula has been proposed1 to replace the more complex relationships previously demonstrated2 among culture, family size and birth order in schizophrenia. Using data from five previously reported samples of schizophrenic patients2–6, Hinshelwood reported a statistically significant over-representation of the last but one birth position regardless of family size. He did not offer any explanation for the supposed special vulnerability of the last but one child.
On a Converse of Sharkovsky's Theorem

(1996). On a Converse of Sharkovsky's Theorem. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 103, No. 5, pp. 386-392.
Long-range, low-cost electric vehicles enabled by robust energy storage

A variety of inherently robust energy storage technologies hold the promise to increase the range and decrease the cost of electric vehicles (EVs). These technologies help diversify approaches to EV energy storage, complementing current focus on high specific energy lithium-ion batteries. The need for emission-free transportation and a decrease in reliance on imported oil has prompted the development of EVs. To reach mass adoption, a significant reduction in cost and an increase in range are needed. Using the cost per mile of range as the metric, we analyzed the various factors that contribute to the cost and weight of EV energy storage systems. Our analysis points to two primary approaches for minimizing cost. The first approach, of developing redox couples that offer higher specific energy than state-of-the-art lithium-ion batteries, dominates current research effort, and its challenges and potentials are briefly discussed. The second approach represents a new insight into the EV research landscape. Chemistries and architectures that are inherently more robust reduce the need for system protection and enables opportunities of using energy storage systems to simultaneously serve vehicle structural functions. This approach thus enables the use of low cost, lower specific energy chemistries without increasing vehicle weight. Examples of such systems include aqueous batteries, flow cells, and all solid-state batteries. Research progress in these technical areas is briefly reviewed. Potential research directions that can enable low-cost EVs using multifunctional energy storage technologies are described.
Efficacy of pumpkin seeds in combination with areca in treatment of 204 taeniasis cases of Blang Ethnic group

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of pumpkin seeds in combination with areca in treatment of taeniasis in Blang ethnic group.Methods The 314 patients discharging tapeworm proglottids in previous one week were divided randomly into 2 groups pumpkin seeds/areca treatment group including 204 patients treated with pumpkin seeds/areca,and control group consisted of 100 cases treated with albendazole.The efficacy and side-effects in both groups were analyzed.Results The total effective rate in pumpkin seeds/areca treatment group two days after treatment was 98.04%(200/204) significantly higher than that of 18.19% in the control group(P0.001).The common side-effects included dizziness and gastrointestinal discomfort occurred in 2.94%(6/204)of patients in treatment group,and 10.00%(11/110)in control group(P0.05).Conclusion Pumpkin seeds combined with areca is a safe and effective for treatment of taeniasis cases.
The In-line Safety Ignition System and the Prospect of Its Use in Solid Rocket Motor

The article introduces the characteristics of in-line safety ignition system, and the general situation of the research and application abroad. The prospect of its future use in solid rocket motor has been forecasted.
Application of Assessment by Bedside in New Nurses' Comprehensive Competence Evaluation

Objective To explore an effective assessment method for new nurses' comprehensive competence evaluation.Methods The assessment by bedside was conducted by a evaluation panel including teachers from Department of Nursing Administration and other departments.Results In general,most teachers and nurses thought highly of the assessment by bedside.According to new nurses,the assessment by bedside was helpful for the improvement of nursing evaluation,nursing skills and communication between patients and nurses.Conclusion Assessment by bedside was beneficial to both new nurses' comprehensive competence and clinical teaching.
Preliminary investigations on Double Sided Incremental Forming of thermoplastics

Abstract Single Point Incremental Forming (SPIF) of polymers has gained significant attention due to the high material formability, absence of external heating of the polymer, and the use of part-shape-independent tooling. Despite the advantages of Double Sided Incremental Forming (DSIF) of metals, polymer DSIF has not yet been explored. This study examines DSIF of a PVC polymer. Forming forces, formability and void structure of the formed polymer in SPIF and DSIF are compared. Significant advantages of polymer DSIF over SPIF are observed including greater formability, reduced void growth in the material and reduced sheet bending outside the desired forming region.
Fluid Entitlements: Constructing and Contesting Water Allocations in Burkina Faso, West Africa

The Upper Comoe watershed in Burkina Faso, West Africa, is characterized by a number of different groups, which use water from a system of reservoirs and canals, including a large sugar cane plantation, small-scale agricultural and pastoral producers, and a medium-sized city. Two different political and administrative systems govern their relations and their access to water — a long-established set of personal clientelistic relations, and a newer participatory form, Integrated Water Resource Management. In the last decade, relations among the groups have broken down three times into conflict, in which physical violence was feared or threatened. A review of these three incidents shows that the disagreements were not only over the quantities of water, but over the social processes of negotiation and the cultural modes of assessing and describing water. These issues, in turn, suggest ways that the study of water raises broader issues in discussions of entitlements and citizenship.
Consecutive Endovascular Treatment of 20 Ruptured Very Small (<3 mm) Anterior Communicating Artery Aneurysms.

Background: Small aneurysms located at the anterior communicating artery carry significant procedural challenges due to a complex anatomy. Recent advances in endovascular technologies have expanded the use of coil embolization for small aneurysm treatment. However, limited reports describe their safety and efficacy profiles in very small anterior communicating artery aneurysms. Objective: We sought to review and report the immediate and long-term clinical as well as radiographic outcomes of consecutive patients with ruptured very small anterior communicating artery aneurysms treated with current endovascular coil embolization techniques. Methods: A prospectively maintained single-institution neuroendovascular database was accessed to identify consecutive cases of very small (Results: A total of 20 patients with ruptured very small (Conclusion: This report describes the largest series of consecutive endovascular treatments of ruptured very small anterior communicating artery aneurysms. These findings suggest that coil embolization of very small aneurysms in this location can be performed with acceptable rates of complications and recanalization.
Megalophallus in Sickle Cell Disease

A case of megalophallus in sickle cell disease with repeated episodes of priapism is reported. A possible cause of penile hypertrophy with preservation of potency is discussed. Corpus cavernography was helpful in the diagnostic evaluation.
Electrical conductivity and ion diffusion in porcine meniscus: effects of strain, anisotropy, and tissue region

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of mechanical strain, anisotropy, and tissue region on electrical conductivity and ion diffusivity in meniscus fibrocartilage. A one-dimensional, 4-wire conductivity experiment was employed to measure the electrical conductivity in porcine meniscus tissues from two tissue regions (horn and central), for two tissue orientations (axial and circumferential), and for three levels of compressive strain (0%, 10%, and 20%). Conductivity values were then used to estimate the relative ion diffusivity in meniscus. The water volume fraction of tissue specimens was determined using a buoyancy method. A total of 135 meniscus samples were measured; electrical conductivity values ranged from 2.47mS/cm to 4.84mS/cm, while relative ion diffusivity was in the range of 0.235 to 0.409. Results show that electrical conductivity and ion diffusion are significantly anisotropic (p<0.001), both being higher in the circumferential direction than in the axial direction. Additionally, the findings show that compression significantly affects the electrical conductivity with decreasing conductivity levels corresponding to increased compressive strain (p<0.001). Furthermore, there was no statistically significant effect of tissue region when comparing axial conductivity in the central and horn regions of the tissue (p=0.999). There was a positive correlation between tissue water volume fraction and both electrical conductivity and relative ion diffusivity for all groups investigated. This study provides important insight into the electromechanical and transport properties in meniscus fibrocartilage, which is essential in developing new strategies to treat and/or prevent tissue degeneration.
Practical aspects of diffusion tensor imaging

There are two reasons because of which correct motion artifacts need to be addressed in diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) studies. One is a DTI-specific issue, and the other is a problem common to all quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that requires multiple magnetic resonance (MR) images. The DTI-specific issue is the degradation of diffusion-weighted images by ghosting effect, as DTI is a technique hypersensitive to bulk motion. Any bulk motions equal to or larger than 7 μm can interfere with the diffusion measurements. In practice, it is almost impossible to remove all the bulk motions, no matter how securely the head is held inside a head coil, since even minute brain motions can approach this amount. This small amount of bulk motion can lead to phase errors and often result in severe ghosting effect. This problem is reduced by using single-shot techniques such as echo-planar imaging (EPI). The second problem exists in image coregistration. DTI typically takes 5–15min of scanning time. If the subject moves more than the size of pixels (2–3mm) during the scan, pixels in the DWIs are not coregistered. Once image corruption occurs, the only measure that can be taken is to remove it from data processing. However, the misregistration can be theoretically corrected by image alignment via post-processing.
A SURVEY OF PHYSICAL ADSORPTION

A classification based on equilibrium and non-equilibrium adsorption is more important than the distinction between physical and chemical adsorption. Adsorption at very low coverage has yielded to equilibrium analysis, and there seem to be few outstanding problems, but these will be reviewed. Adsorption in the sub-monolayer region has been most subjected to theoretical analysis, and is synonomous in many ways with the two-dimensional problem in liquid theory, although it differs in important respects. These are discussed, as well as the location of the “two-dimensional” triple point and critical point. Deep multilayer adsorption has yielded to crude analysis, but the intermediate region of one to three layers is clearly understood only when the stepwise model of condensation can be applied. The measurement of surface area by adsorption and optical techniques are discussed.
Transistor reliability characterization and comparisons for a 14 nm tri-gate technology optimized for System-on-Chip and foundry platforms

The transistor reliability characterization of a 14nm System-on-Chip (SoC) node optimized for low power operation is described. In-depth assessments of reliability and performance for Core and I/O devices are performed on Logic and SoC nodes, and clear trends with scaling are identified. Insight is provided into hot carrier and off-state aging, and self-heat effects. Technological advancements across process nodes demonstrate the ability to achieve matched or improved reliability in conjunction with robust generational performance gains. The 14nm SoC node is shown to be robust for all transistor reliability modes. Process monitor data are used to demonstrate the stability of the production line in high-volume manufacturing.
Immune modules shared by innate lymphoid cells and T cells

In recent years, innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) have emerged as innate correlates to T cells. The similarities between ILCs and T cells indicate that lymphocytes of fundamentally distinct lineages can share core "immune modules" that encompass transcriptional circuitry and effector functions while using nonredundant complementary mechanisms of pattern recognition to enact these functions. We review modules currently recognized to be shared between ILCs and T cells.
Risk-Adapted Therapy of Aggressive Lymphoma Based on FDG-PET Performed after 2 or 3 Cycles of Initial Chemotherapy.

Abstract Background: [18F] FDG-PET after only 2–3 cycles of chemotherapy is highly prognostic in newly diagnosed aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), with reported relapse rates of 71–100% after standard therapy if midtreatment PET remains positive. We hypothesized that early treatment intensification, based on individualized risk assessment by PET, would improve outcome. Methods: A phase II, single center trial was activated in 2/2004 for patients (pts) with newly diagnosed aggressive NHL. PET-CT was performed between days 11 and 20 of cycle 2 or 3 of CHOP + rituximab (R). Pts whose PET scan was considered positive on semiquantitative visual interpretation, irrespective of stage or international prognostic index (IPI), received 2 cycles of (R)ESHAP or (R)ICE, followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (SCT) with busulfan-cyclophosphamide conditioning. Biopsies of FDG positive areas were not performed. Pts with negative midtreatment PET completed standard therapy. Tumor FDG uptake was graded on a 5-point scale: 0, no tumor activity (cold); 1+, minimal; 2+, equivocal (equal to mediastinal blood pool); 3+, moderately greater than blood pool; 4+, strong. Scores of 3+ or 4+ were considered positive. Results: As of 8/16/2007, 58 evaluable pts have been accrued, 55 with large B-cell lymphoma. Median age at diagnosis was 51 (20–78); 39 pts had stage III or IV disease. Thirty-two pts (55%) had positive midtreatment PET (17 with score of 3+, 15 with score of 4+). Twenty-six pts (45%) had negative midtreatment PET (10 with score of 0, 3 with score of 1+, 13 with score of 2+). PET was positive in 23 of 38 pts (61%) with IPI 0–2 and in 9 of 18 pts (50%) with IPI 3-5; 2 pts had undetermined IPI. Twenty-eight of 32 pts with positive midtreatment PET have completed SCT; 3 were ineligible because of early disease progression; 1 withdrew consent. At a median follow-up of 20.4 months, their actuarial 2-year event-free survival (EFS) after SCT is 67% (figure). Overall, 19 of 28 transplant recipients are alive and without evidence of relapse or secondary cancers: 6 relapsed at a median of 3.6 months ( Conclusion: These data confirm the strong prognostic value of negative midtreatment PET scans, with excellent outcomes in such pts treated with (R)CHOP alone. Early treatment intensification for poor-risk pts, as identified by midtreatment PET, results in a significantly better outcome than that achieved historically. Download : Download high-res image (113KB) Download : Download full-size image Outcome for midtreatment PET positive pts
A decision support tool

This report presents a decision support tool using paired comparisons to rank and weight a list of items. The techniques of T.L. Saaty, developer of the consistency ranking model, enable the user to detect inconsistencies, and provide an audit trail, or step–by–step breakdown of the entire ranking process, so that the process can be analysed further. The audit trail is possible because the program was constructed in modular form with top–down programming techniques, wherein errant data is pinpointed within a certain mathematical phase of ranking rather than necessitating a search through the entire program. The program was refined to make it as user–friendly as possible so that management–level decision–makers, who may not be computer experts, can use it successfully.
Do painkillers serve as "hillbilly heroin" for rural adults with high levels of psychosocial stress?

ABSTRACTNonmedical use of painkillers has increased in recent years, with some authors suggesting that painkillers serve as “hillbilly heroin”: a drug chosen by rural adults to cope with psychosocial stresses in their lives. The present study compared rural and urban adults for their reported use of 5 drugs during the past year (painkillers, marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin) and for associations between these 5 drugs and their reported psychosocial stressors. This study conducted secondary analyses of anonymous survey data provided by the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health with responses from 8,699 rural and 18,481 urban adults. The survey included demographics (gender, age, race, education, marital status, family income), reports of whether participants had used each of 5 illicit drugs during the past year, and measures of psychological distress and social functioning problems. Controlling for demographics, rural adults showed no greater prevalence of painkiller use than urban adults,...
Radiation exposure with hybrid image-guidance-based minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.

Abstract The transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is used for the treatment of back and leg pain secondary to spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolisthesis. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is associated with less estimated blood loss (EBL), decreased length of stay, lower infection rates, and similar outcomes compared to the traditional TLIF. Fluoroscopy time has been reported with MIS-TLIF, but there are limited data on specific radiation dosages. We performed a retrospective analysis of a prospectively acquired cohort of patients undergoing MIS-TLIF. A total of 50 patients were included. Mean age was 53 years with 60% women and mean BMI of 30 (range 21–41). Diagnoses were as follows: 45 stenosis (90%), 29 spondylolisthesis (58%), 5 facet cysts (10%), 3 scoliosis (6%), and 1 cauda equina syndrome (2%). A single level was fused in 33 cases (66%), two levels in 15 (30%), three levels in 2 (4%). Average cage height was 10 mm with mean EBL of 80 ml and operative time of 240 min. The average radiation doses from intraoperative CT scan and fluoroscopy were 35.3 and 26.5 mGy, respectively. Average CT scan and fluoroscopy times were 5.2 and 37.1 s, respectively, for a total of 42.2 s. Average length of stay was 3 days (range 1–7 days). Although these data represent a preliminary experience, by streamlining the timing of intraoperative CT scan and minimizing the amount of intraoperative fluoroscopy, this protocol has the potential for decreasing operative time and radiation exposure.