cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 140: Anti-inflammatory and Anti-atherogenic Role of Bmp Receptor II In Endothelial Cells

Atherosclerosis is a multifactorial disease that arises from a combination of endothelial dysfunction and inflammation, occurring preferentially in arterial regions exposed to disturbed flow. Bone morphogenic protein-4 (BMP4) produced by disturbed flow induces inflammation, endothelial dysfunction and hypertension, suggesting the importance of BMPs in vascular biology and disease. BMPs bind to two different types of BMP receptors (BMPRI and II) to instigate intracellular signaling. Increasing evidences suggest a correlative role of BMP4 and atherosclerosis, but the role of BMP receptors especially BMPRII in atherosclerosis is still unclear and whether knockdown of BMPRII is the cause or the consequence of atherosclerosis is still not known. It is therefore, imperative to investigate the mechanisms by which BMPRII expression is modulated and its ramifications in atherosclerosis. Initially, we expected that knockdown of BMPRII will result in loss of pro-atherogenic BMP4 signaling and will thereby prevent atherosclerosis. Contrarily, we found that loss of BMPRII expression causes endothelial inflammation and atherosclerosis. Using BMPRII siRNA and BMPRII +/- mice, we found that BMPRII knockdown induces endothelial inflammation in a BMP-independent manner via mechanisms involving reactive oxygen species (ROS), NFκB, and NADPH oxidases. Further, BMPRII +/- ApoE -/- mice develop accelerated atherosclerosis compared to BMPRII +/+ ApoE -/- mice, suggesting loss of BMPRII may induce atherosclerosis. Interestingly, we found that multiple pro-atherogenic stimuli such as hypercholesterolemia, disturbed flow, pro-hypertensive angiotensin II, and pro-inflammatory cytokine, TNFα, downregulate BMPRII expression in endothelium, while anti-atherogenic stimuli such as stable flow and statin treatment upregulate its expression, both in vivo and in vitro . Moreover, we found that BMPRII expression is significantly diminished in human coronary advanced atherosclerotic lesions. These results suggest that BMPRII is a critical, anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic protein that is commonly targeted by multiple pro- and anti-atherogenic factors. BMPRII could be used as a novel diagnostic and therapeutic target in atherosclerosis.
Regional resilience trust funds: an exploratory analysis for leveraging insurance surcharges

This paper explores the financial viability of a series of state trust funds designed to strategically provide financial products to support interventions advanced in the name of climate change adaptation and resilience in the New York metropolitan region. This paper evaluates the proposition that the regional resilience trust funds (RRTFs) could be feasibly capitalized by a surcharge on insurance (Proposition A). Second, the paper evaluates the proposition that the RRTF could sustainably support a range of grants and financial products that could accommodate 100% of states’ unmet resilience needs (Proposition B). The findings of this research support an affirmation of the feasibility of the RRTF pursuant to Proposition A. Consistent with Proposition B, this paper provides evidence in support of a sustainable portfolio strategy that can ultimately be operated independent of the insurance surcharges. However, with the exception of Connecticut, under the modeled assumptions, the RRTFs could not could fulfill 100% of the unmet resilience needs. This paper provides a broader strategic understanding of how investment products and portfolios can be designed to operate in the uncertainties associated with climate change.
Transferrin receptor 1 upregulation in primary tumor and downregulation in benign kidney is associated with progression and mortality in renal cell carcinoma patients.

// Christopher J. Greene 1 , Kristopher Attwood 2 , Nitika J. Sharma 1 , Kenneth W. Gross 3 , Gary J. Smith 1 , Bo Xu 4 and Eric C. Kauffman 1, 5, 6 1 Department of Urology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA 2 Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA 3 Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA 4 Department of Pathology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA 5 Department of Cancer Genetics, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA 6 Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA Correspondence to: Eric C. Kauffman, email: eric.kauffman@roswellpark.org Keywords: transferrin receptor; iron; renal cell carcinoma; clear cell; immunohistochemistry Received: May 19, 2017 Accepted: August 31, 2017 Published: November 06, 2017 ABSTRACT The central dysregulated pathway of clear cell (cc) renal cell carcinoma (RCC), the von Hippel Lindau/hypoxia inducible factor-α axis, is a key regulator of intracellular iron levels, however the role of iron uptake in human RCC tumorigenesis and progression remains unknown. We conducted a thorough, large-scale investigation of the expression and prognostic significance of the primary iron uptake protein, transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1/CD71/TFRC), in RCC patients. TfR1 immunohistochemistry was performed in over 1500 cores from 574 renal cell tumor patient tissues (primary tumors, matched benign kidneys, metastases) and non-neoplastic tissues from 36 different body sites. TfR1 levels in RCC tumors, particularly ccRCC, were significantly associated with adverse clinical prognostic features (anemia, lower body mass index, smoking), worse tumor pathology (size, stage, grade, multifocality, sarcomatoid dedifferentiation) and worse survival outcomes, including after adjustments for tumor pathology. Highest TfR1 tissue levels in the non-gravid body were detected in benign renal tubule epithelium. Opposite to TfR1 changes in the primary tumor, TfR1 levels in benign kidney dropped during tumor progression and were inversely associated with worse survival outcomes, independent of tumor pathology. Quantitative measurement of TfR1 subcellular localization in cell lines demonstrated mixed cytoplasmic and membranous expression with increased TfR1 in clusters in ccRCC versus benign renal cell lines. Results of this study support an important role for TfR1 in RCC progression and identify TfR1 as a novel RCC biomarker and therapeutic target.
For CO2 Reduction, Hydrogen-Bond Donors Do the Trick.

Theory and experiment join forces to provide a comprehensive view on how pendant amines in the secondary coordination sphere impact electrocatalytic CO2 reduction.
Phytopharmacology of Abelmoschus moschatus medik.: A review

Herbal medicine is playing an essential role in health care, with about 75–80% of the world’s population relying mainly on the use of traditional or alternative systems of medicines for their primary health care. Abelmoschus moschatus Medik., commonly known as musk okra belonging to the family Malvaceae, is used traditionally in the treatment of various health ailments throughout the world. The plant has been extensively studied by various researchers for its biological activities and therapeutic potentials. The present review summarizes information published in various academic journals and books, covering folkloric uses, chemical compositions, pharmacological activities of the extracts and isolated compounds, and safety profile of A. moschatus for further research studies.
Approaches to the management of pediatric portal hypertension: results of an informal survey

Portal hypertension and its related complications are major clinical issues in pediatric hepatology. The leading cause of significant liver disease in children is biliary atresia. The biliary injury in this disorder is associated with prominent portal hypertension at disease stages where synthetic liver function is typically intact. Thus the relative contribution of complications of portal hypertension to morbidity and mortality in liver disease is greater in children than in adults. In children with biliary atresia, prominent portal hypertension is often present at the time of corrective hepatoportoenterostomy (Kasai procedure) and it progresses over relatively short periods of time1. The rate of progression of the portal hypertension is related to outcome after hepatoportoenterostomy, with more accelerated progression in children with failed procedures or with recurrent cholangitis2. Complications that are a direct result of this portal hypertension are common. Variceal hemorrhage occurs in a large percentage of children, often within the first 5 years of life2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. Ascites, hepatopulmonary syndrome, rectal varices/colopathy, stomal hemorrhage, and pulmonary hypertension have also been described in children with biliary atresia8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13.
Atmospheric Chemistry-Climate Interactions

Atmospheric chemistry plays an important role in driving climate and its variability at all space and time scales. The chemical composition of the atmosphere has evolved since the formation of the planet 4.5 billion years ago, and is currently changing at an accelerated rate, primarily as a result of human activities. This paper presents a description of the most important chemical processes occurring in the troposphere and in the stratosphere, and discusses potential climatic impacts of changes in the chemical composition of the atmosphere. Interdisciplinary research will be needed to address the most crucial issues, because of the strong coupling between the atmosphere, the biosphere, the hydrosphere, the chemosphere and the technosphere.
Linear Stability Theory

Laminar-to-turbulent transition can occur through several mechanisms, such as in linear instability, bypass transition, Gortler instability, and cross-flow instability. For more discussion of this issue see Bushnell et al. (1988), Gortler (1965), Dagenhart et al. (1989, 1990), and Saric and Benmalek (1991). The most widely used tool for predicting transition is the so-called e N method, which is discussed in chapter 3. The e N method is based on the linear stability theory, which is discussed in this chapter.
TGF-β–mediated enhancement of TH17 cell generation is inhibited by bone morphogenetic protein receptor 1α signaling

The cytokines of the transforming growth factor–β (TGF-β) family promote the growth and differentiation of multiple tissues, but the role of only the founding member, TGF-β, in regulating the immune responses has been extensively studied. TGF-β is critical to prevent the spontaneous activation of self-reactive T cells and sustain immune homeostasis. In contrast, in the presence of proinflammatory cytokines, TGF-β promotes the differentiation of effector T helper 17 (T H 17) cells. Abrogating TGF-β receptor signaling prevents the development of interleukin-17 (IL-17)–secreting cells and protects mice from T H 17 cell–mediated autoimmunity. We found that the receptor of another member of TGF-β family, bone morphogenetic protein receptor 1α (BMPR1α), regulates T helper cell activation. We found that the differentiation of T H 17 cells from naive CD4 + T cells was inhibited in the presence of BMPs. Abrogation of BMPR1α signaling during CD4 + T cell activation induced a developmental program that led to the generation of inflammatory effector cells expressing large amounts of IL-17, IFN-γ, and TNF family cytokines and transcription factors defining the T H 17 cell lineage. We found that TGF-β and BMPs cooperated to establish effector cell functions and the cytokine profile of activated CD4 + T cells. Together, our data provide insight into the immunoregulatory function of BMPs.
Overview of laser damage performance of the third-harmonic frequency conversion crystals on the National Ignition Facility

We report on the laser damage performance of the DKDP third-harmonic frequency conversion crystals (THG) on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) since its operations began in 2009. An in-situ damage inspection system is used to monitor and track status of final optics in the UV section of the laser over time. Most THG optics last between 2 and 5 years on NIF before damage grows large enough that we have to exchange them. The critical damage size is related to our recycle strategy. About 10% of optics have lasted 10+ years which show we are not even close to the inherent limitation for this optic type. The short life THG optics are all limited by a relatively few number of flaws. Here we describe our efforts to understand these flaws so we can manage and, eventually, eliminate them.
Sexual Minority School Psychologists’ Perceptions of School Climate and Professional Commitment

Research has suggested that LGBTQ individuals experience discrimination in their workplace and hostile work climate may affect their job effectiveness, satisfaction, and retention. However, research on LGBTQ educators’ and school staff’s experiences in schools is limited. This study investigated sexual minority school psychologists’ perceptions of their workplace climate and professional commitment. Eighty-eight LGBTQ school psychologists in the United States completed a school climate survey online that asked their experiences regarding homophobia/transphobia in the schools, legal protection of civil rights, school policies of bullying language, and coming out. The results indicated that discriminatory remarks against LGBTQ people are prevalent in the schools. A good number of LGBTQ school psychologists do not feel comfortable being “out” at their schools due to fear that their employment would be at risk if they did so. LGBTQ school psychologists of color, early career LGBTQ school psychologists, and those who work in the rural areas face more challenges in their workplace than their counterparts who are white and work in big or mid-sized cities. The findings highlight the importance of legal protection and school administrative support in creating positive school climate for LGBTQ individuals in schools. Implications are discussed.
Human scalp hair: Modulation by various factors and hormones do estrogens inhibit or stimulate—A perplexing perspective

Several journal reports, reviews, and commentaries over the last 20-25 years have pointed out the controversy attached to 17β-estradiol's inhibitory or stimulatory influence on hair follicle growth/cycling citing rodent (murine) and human results. While 17β-estradiol is the most potent sex steroid hormone in the body and has almost equal affinity for estrogen receptor (ER) alpha (α) and beta (β), there appears to be specific ER-mediated effects on scalp hair follicles/growth, etc. Additionally, the newly discovered G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPR30 or GPER) and the orphan receptor, estrogen-related receptor (ERR) gamma (γ), in skin and other tissue sites have potential impacts of how estrogens via these receptors may alter scalp hair characteristics, but this remains to be elucidated. Conversely, the negative impact of the 5α-reductase enzyme and its steroid product, 5α-dihydrotestosterone, on scalp hair growth is clear. Less clear is how 17β-estradiol is stimulatory in some scalp hair studies, but inhibitory in others. This brief summary examines the potential influences of steroidogenesis via aromatase (estrogen biosynthesis) and 5α-reductase expression, their enzyme activities, and steroid products along with the concepts of how steroid acute regulatory protein (StAR) and estrone sulfate may be involved in the complex hormonal, cellular/molecular signaling cascade of the hair follicle in growth and cycling.
Equilibrium Adsorption Isotherms for H2O on Zeolite 13X

Adsorption isotherms are reported for pure water vapor on zeolite 13X (also called zeolite NaX) pellets. Data were obtained using a gravimetric method over a temperature range of 25 to 100 °C and a pressure range of 0.006 to 25 kPa. These pure-component equilibria are fit with the Sips, Toth, and multisite Langmuir models, all modified with the Aranovich–Donohue (A–D) model. The A–D Sips isotherm is recommended for modeling water adsorption on zeolite 13X because it provides the best agreement with the measured isotherm data.
Movement responses inform effectiveness and consequences of baiting wild pigs for population control

Abstract Wild pigs (Sus scrofa) damage agricultural and natural resources throughout their nearly global distribution. Subsequently, population control activities (e.g., trapping, shooting, or toxic baiting) frequently involve the deployment of bait to attract wild pigs. A better understanding of how wild pigs respond to bait sites can help maximize efficiency of baiting programs and identify any potential pitfalls. We examined the movement behaviors of 68 wild pigs during three stages of intensive baiting programs (i.e., 15 days each: prior, during, and post baiting) spread across two distinct study areas in southern and northern Texas, USA. We found that bait sites needed to be within1 km of where females were located (1.25 km for males) to achieve ≥0.50 daily visitation rate. Deployment of bait increased movement distances and erratic movements for both sexes, but did not influence their foraging search area. Home range sizes increased and shifted during baiting, especially for wild pigs on the periphery of the baiting area. After baiting ceased, wild pigs moved away from bait sites and began using new space (i.e., less overlap with previously used home ranges), suggesting that baiting could facilitate the spread of wild pigs. We recommend that baiting programs should be coordinated to reduce the number of wild pigs left on the landscape following baiting. Bait sites should be spaced every 1–2 km, and should be actively relocated if visitation by wild pigs is not consistent. Uncoordinated and passive baiting for recreational hunting and trapping likely exacerbates the negative consequences of baiting identified in this study, such as expanding the space-use and facilitating the spread of wild pigs.
Through a Screen Darkly: Use of Computer-Mediated Communication Predicts Emotional Functioning

Despite the pervasive use of computer-mediated communication, relatively little is known about its implications for emotional adjustment. Recent studies suggest that a preference for computer-media...
Entertainment science: Data analytics and practical theory for movies, games, books, and music

What makes Shonda Rhimes’ programs addictive eye candy, while others never make it past the pilot stage? How do publishers decide which stories are worth telling? Why are there so many Spider-Man m...
Hankel Tournament and Special Oriented Graphs

A Hankel tournament T of order n (an n × n Hankel tournament matrix T = [tij]) is a tournament such that i → j an edge implies (n + 1 − j) → (n + 1 − i) is also an edge (tij = tn+1−j,n+1−i) for all i and j. Hankel tournament matrices are (0, 1)-matrices which are combinatorially antisymmetric about the main diagonal and symmetric about the Hankel diagonal (the antidiagonal). Locally transitive tournaments are tournaments such that the in-neighborhood and the out-neighborhood of each vertex are transitive. Tournaments form a special class of oriented graphs. The score vectors of Hankel tournaments and of locally transitive tournaments have been characterized where each score vector of a locally transitive tournament is also a score vector of a Hankel tournament. In this paper we continue investigations into Hankel tournaments and locally transitive tournaments. We investigate Hankel cycles in Hankel tournaments and show in particular that a strongly connected Hankel tournament contains a Hankel Hamilton cycle and, in fact, is Hankel “even-pancyclic” or Hankel “odd-pancyclic.” We show that a Hankel score vector can be achieved by a Hankel “half-transitive” tournament, extending the corresponding result for score vectors of tournaments. We also consider some results on oriented graphs and the question of attainability of prescribed degrees by oriented graphs. Finally, we extend some results on 2-tournaments to Hankel 2-tournaments. In some instances we rely on the reader to extend arguments already in the literature. We illustrate our investigations with many examples.
Becoming Indivisible in the Age of Cloning: Resistance, Individuality, and Photography in Notre vie dans les forêts

After broaching the topic in two short stories included in the collection Zoo (2006) – “Quand je me sens tres fatiguee le soir” and “Mon mari le clone” – Marie Darrieussecq, in her most recent novel Notre vie dans les forets (2017), returns to the question of clones. In an age when high-tech surveillance and meticulous tracking mechanisms have become the norm, in a world where clones are used as spare parts to prolong one’s life, a group of rebels decides to resist and liberate their cloned halves, only to find out that they are also clones themselves; from their hiding place in a forest, the dying female narrator writes her story in a notebook hoping she will be remembered. This article considers how clones can be said to have a distinct and unique identity by tracing the evolution of the female narrator from clone to individual. It also proposes to read the novel as a powerful series of snapshots that allow the narrator, through her photographic writing, to become her own ghost, as opposed to someone else’s clone.
Effects of a Clonidine Taper on Dexmedetomidine Use and Withdrawal in Adult Critically Ill Patients-A Pilot Study.

Objectives Prolonged use of dexmedetomidine has become increasingly common due to its favorable sedative and anxiolytic properties. Hypersympathetic withdrawal symptoms have been reported with abrupt discontinuation of prolonged dexmedetomidine infusions. Clonidine has been used to transition patients off dexmedetomidine infusions for ICU sedation. The objective of this study was to compare the occurrence of dexmedetomidine withdrawal symptoms in ICU patients transitioning to a clonidine taper versus those weaned off dexmedetomidine alone after prolonged dexmedetomidine infusion. Design This was a single-center, prospective, double cohort observational study conducted from November 2017 to December 2018. Setting Medical-surgical, cardiothoracic, and neurosurgical ICUs in a tertiary care hospital. Patients We included adult ICU patients being weaned off dexmedetomidine after receiving continuous infusions for at least 3 days. Interventions Patients were either weaned off dexmedetomidine alone or with a clonidine taper at the discretion of the providers. Measurements and main results The primary outcome was the incidence of at least two dexmedetomidine withdrawal symptoms during a single assessment within 24 hours of dexmedetomidine discontinuation. Time on dexmedetomidine after wean initiation and difference in medication cost were also evaluated. Forty-two patients were included in this study: 15 received clonidine (Group C) and 27 weaned off dexmedetomidine alone (Group D). There was no significant difference in the incidence of two or more withdrawal symptoms between groups (73% in Group C vs 59% in Group D; p = 0.51). Patients in Group C spent less time on dexmedetomidine after wean initiation compared with patients in Group D (19 vs 42 hr; p = 0.02). An average cost savings of $1,553.47 per patient who received clonidine was observed. No adverse effects were noted. Conclusions Our study demonstrated that patients receiving clonidine were able to wean off dexmedetomidine more rapidly, with a considerable cost savings and no difference in dexmedetomidine withdrawal symptoms, compared with patients weaned off dexmedetomidine alone. Clonidine may be a safe, effective, and practical option to transition patients off prolonged dexmedetomidine infusions.
Facial Flaps for Repair of Facial Defects: Precepts Perspectives

SUMMARY The foregoing is by no means a complete discussion of the subject of flap surgery for repair of facial defects. It is intended instead to be a general discussion of the subject. On review of the subject, one is struck by the ingenious application of sound scientific method to the common-sense dictates of flap reconstruction. With respect for those who have gone before and encouragement to those who come after, we fully expect that surgical innovation will reach new heights.
Zakarpattia: 2018. Film. Directed and produced by Shaun Williams. Saraiman Films Production, 85 min.

Zakarpattia (2018), written, produced, directed, and edited by ethnomusicologist Shaun Williams, is an ethnographic film that features Roma and non-Roma musicians on the Ukrainian side of the Carpa...
Top 10 tips for performing a high-quality upper endoscopy (with videos).

Abstract When performed appropriately and safely, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is an invaluable tool for diagnosing and monitoring a range of upper gastrointestinal disorders and cancers. With more than 6 million EGDs being performed in the United States and reports of missed upper GI (UGI) lesions, both experienced and budding endoscopists should keep a number of essential considerations in mind when performing an EGD, and that starts with obtaining a thorough patient medical history and ensuring that informed consent has been obtained. The right approach, including good posture, appropriate intubation, and proper use of torque, as well as slow endoscope insertion and withdrawal, helps make for a smooth and effective procedure. A clean mucosa, achieved using water and de-foaming and mucolytic agents, ensures clear visibility. Meticulous inspection of the mucosa will allow the endoscopist to detect all lesions and abnormalities. Adherence to established and indication-specific biopsy protocols and use of validated classification criteria should help histopathologists confirm a diagnosis. Maintaining vigilance after an endoscopy and informing our patients of symptoms and signs of procedure-related adverse events is essential for the early recognition and management of these possible adverse events. Finally, an evidence-based schedule of follow-up endoscopy built on endoscopic and histologic findings and risk factors for disease progression will help avoid overutilization of endoscopies.
Desert Hell: The British Invasion of Mesopotamia – By Charles Townshend

In the author's note at the beginning of the book, with the author's name the same as the major‐general who commanded the British forces that surrendered to the Ottoman Turks at Kut in 1916, Charle...
Anonymous Communication and Anonymous Cash

We propose considering the problem of electronic cash in the context of a network in which anonymous, untraceable communication is assumed to be possible. We present a formal model for such a network, and define security criteria for an electronic cash system in such a setting. Finally, we show that there exists a remarkably simple electrortic cash system which meets the security criteria of the proposed model.
Electrochemical model based fault diagnosis of a lithium ion battery using multiple model adaptive estimation approach

In this paper, we present an innovative approach in detecting fault conditions in a battery in which multiple model adaptive estimation (MMAE) technique is applied using electrochemical model of a Li-Ion cell. This physics based model of Li-ion battery (with LiCoO 2 cathode chemistry) with healthy battery parameters was considered as the reference model. Battery fault conditions such as aging, overcharge, and over discharge cause significant variations of parameters from nominal values and can be considered as separate models. Output error injection based partial differential algebraic equation (PDAE) observers are used to generate the residual voltage signals. These residuals are then used in MMAE algorithm to detect the ongoing fault conditions of the battery. Simulation results show that the fault conditions can be detected and identified accurately which indicates the effectiveness of the proposed battery fault detection method.
Decompositions of graphs into 5-cycles and other small graphs

In this paper we consider the problem of finding the smallest number $q$ such that any graph $G$ of order $n$ admits a decomposition into edge disjoint copies of a fixed graph $H$ and single edges with at most $q$ elements. We solve the case when $H$ is the 5-cycle, the 5-cycle with a chord and any connected non-bipartite non-complete graph of order 4.
Mechanical Properties of Electroformed Nickel at Room and Cryogenic Temperatures

The purpose of this program was to evaluate the mechanical properties of electroformed nickel in order to determine its suitability for aerospace structural applications at room and cryogenic temperatures. In order to understand the interest in electroformed nickelj it is well to quickly review the electroforming process and some of Its attributes.
Microdosimetry of alpha-emitting decay products in tissue using conventional film autoradiography

Presented work describes a practical method using conventional photographic films; specifically, Ilford Pan F Plus 135–36, Black & White, ISO 50 film for obtaining images of alpha tracks. A variety of alpha radiation sources including electrodeposited planchets, Bomarc soil, and samples of bone containing 226Ra were placed directly on the film for up to 3 days. Post-exposure the film was developed using standard darkroom techniques with Kodak D-76 developer for 7 min, stop bath, and fixer. Tracks consisting of five or more grains were counted using an Olympus BX51 microscope at ×10 magnification in a 9 cm2 circular field-of-view. Initial analysis shows an efficiency of approximately 34.9 % with an uncertainty in track counts of ±2.4 % for the monoenergetic particles.
Georadar-derived estimates of firn density in the percolation zone, western Greenland ice sheet

[1] Greater understanding of variations in firn densification is needed to distinguish between dynamic and melt-driven elevation changes on the Greenland ice sheet. This is especially true in Greenland's percolation zone, where firn density profiles are poorly documented because few ice cores are extracted in regions with surface melt. We used georadar to investigate firn density variations with depth along a ∼70 km transect through a portion of the accumulation area in western Greenland that partially melts. We estimated electromagnetic wave velocity by inverting reflection traveltimes picked from common midpoint gathers. We followed a procedure designed to find the simplest velocity versus depth model that describes the data within estimated uncertainty. On the basis of the velocities, we estimated 13 depth-density profiles of the upper 80 m using a petrophysical model based on the complex refractive index method equation. At the highest elevation site, our density profile is consistent with nearby core data acquired in the same year. Our profiles at the six highest elevation sites match an empirically based densification model for dry firn, indicating relatively minor amounts of water infiltration and densification by melt and refreeze in this higher region of the percolation zone. At the four lowest elevation sites our profiles reach ice densities at substantially shallower depths, implying considerable meltwater infiltration and ice layer development in this lower region of the percolation zone. The separation between these two regions is 8 km and spans 60 m of elevation, which suggests that the balance between dry-firn and melt-induced densification processes is sensitive to minor changes in melt.
Central retinal artery occlusion.

The pathogeneses, clinical features, and management of central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) are discussed. CRAO consists of the following four distinct clinical entities: non-arteritic CRAO (NA-CRAO), transient NA-CRAO, NA-CRAO with cilioretinal artery sparing, and arteritic CRAO. Clinical characteristics, visual outcome, and management very much depend upon the type of CRAO. Contrary to the prevalent belief, spontaneous improvement in both visual acuity and visual fields does occur, mainly during the first 7 days. The incidence of spontaneous visual acuity improvement during the first 7 days differs significantly (P
Consensus guidelines for asthma therapy.

Objective This article provides information on the consensus reached by the Antileukotriene Working Group on the role of leukotriene (LT) modifiers in the treatment of asthma. Data Sources Relevant and appropriate controlled clinical studies were used. Only literature in the English language was reviewed. Study Selection Material was taken from academic/scholarly journals and appropriate reviews. Results Only limited use of LT-modifying agents has been recommended in recently published guidelines of the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Consequently, the Antileukotriene Working Group was convened to arrive at a consensus on the wider use of LT modifiers in the treatment of asthma. The group's purpose was 2-fold: to review and disseminate information on the role of LT modifiers in clinical practice. As determined by the group, a thorough understanding of the patient's disease, patient education, and an effective patient-clinician relationship are key elements in overall patient management. Conclusions Based on evidence from clinical trials and expert opinions of participants comprising the Antileukotriene Working Group, LT-modifying agents potentially may be used as first-line therapy, in combination regimens, and as an alternative to inhaled corticosteroids in the treatment of asthma.
Techniques for omental retraction during laparoscopic nissen fundoplication.

A laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is more difficult in patients with excessive omental fat, particularly when the surgeon attempts to ligate the short gastric vessels, mobilizing the greater curvature of the stomach and exposing the left diaphragmatic crura. Most surgeons place the patient in steep reverse Trendelenberg to allow gravity to pull the omentum out of the operative field. Despite this maneuver, the omentum can still drape over the splenic hilum and left subphrenic space. Another alternative is to place an additional trocar for a hand-held retractor or grasper. However, this procedure is unnecessarily traumatic and can be avoided. There is a method of retracting the omentum during laparascopic Nissen fundoplications that uses readily available laparoscopic instruments and does not require the placement of an additional port. This simple technique for retracting the omentum during a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication makes use of the Surgitie, a pretied laparoscopic suture, and the Endo Close (United States Surgical Corporation, Norwalk, CT, USA). A Surgitie is placed through one of the ports to lasso the offending piece of omentum along the greater curvature of the stomach. The suture is cut to its fullest length outside the body, then pulled through the trocar and into the abdomen. Gentle traction is placed on the free end of the secured suture with a laparoscopic grasper until the omentum is retracted to an optimal position for visualization. At this point, a 1-mm incision is made in the skin, and the Endo Close is placed through the abdominal wall and into the abdominal cavity. The location of the 1-mm incision should be at a site that will maintain adequate retraction on the omental fat but keep the pretied laparoscopic suture out of the operative field (usually along the left costal margin). The free end of the suture is grasped by the Endo Close and pulled back through the abdominal wall. The suture is secured outside the abdominal cavity by grasping it with a hemostat flush to the skin. More than one Surgitie can be used if needed. After completing the fundoplication, the suture is cut intracorporally near the secured knot and removed. During the past year, we have performed laparoscopic Nissen fundoplications in seven patients with morbid obesity (Body Mass Index >35). The technique we describe has allowed for improved visualization during ligation of the short gastric vessels, mobilization of the greater curvature of the stomach, and exposure of the left diaphragmatic crura. It has also obviated the need for another trocar. This will free up a pair of hands, decrease the amount of instrumentation in an already crowded operative field, and reduce the potential morbidity of using additional retractors and graspers.
Endogenous Phosphorylation of a 61,000 Dalton Hippocampal Protein Increases Following Traumatic Brain Injury

ABSTRACT Acute biochemical consequences of moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI) include activation of kinases, including protein kinase C (PKC). To determine the possible consequences of PKC activ...
Determination of a necessary height for a stack close to a building—a wind tunnel study

Abstract Wind tunnel tests were conducted to show that the 2.5 times rule for the determination of a necessary height for a stack close to a building is adequate for a building whose width perpendicular to the wind direction is twice its height, but that it is unnecessarily conservative for a tall thin building. An alternative rule, called Briggs' alternative, is shown to be adequate. The study was undertaken in a meteorological wind tunnel by placing model stacks and buildings in a simulated neutral atmospheric boundary layer. Smoke was used for flow visualization and methane for quantitative concentration measurements downwind of the building. The plumes were neutrally buoyant and the stacks were placed within one building height of the building in all cases.
Generation of Atoh1-rtTA transgenic mice: a tool for inducible gene expression in hair cells of the inner ear

Atoh1 is a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor that controls differentiation of hair cells (HCs) in the inner ear and its enhancer region has been used to create several HC-specific mouse lines. We generated a transgenic tetracycline-inducible mouse line (called Atoh1-rtTA) using the Atoh1 enhancer to drive expression of the reverse tetracycline transactivator (rtTA) protein and human placental alkaline phosphatase. Presence of the transgene was confirmed by alkaline phosphatase staining and rtTA activity was measured using two tetracycline operator (TetO) reporter alleles with doxycycline administered between postnatal days 0–3. This characterization of five founder lines demonstrated that Atoh1-rtTA is expressed in the majority of cochlear and utricular HCs. Although the tetracycline-inducible system is thought to produce transient changes in gene expression, reporter positive HCs were still observed at 6 weeks of age. To confirm that Atoh1-rtTA activity was specific to Atoh1-expressing cells, we also analyzed the cerebellum and found rtTA-driven reporter expression in cerebellar granule neuron precursor cells. The Atoh1-rtTA mouse line provides a powerful tool for the field and can be used in combination with other existing Cre recombinase mouse lines to manipulate expression of multiple genes at different times in the same animal.
Object reconstruction from noisy holograms: Multiplicative noise model

Abstract A constrained iterative scheme has been applied to reconstruct an object from a multiplicative-noise-corrupted hologram. A multiplicative homomorphic system is used to model the noise in this iterative scheme. Convergence property holds. One-dimensional simulation results are shown.
Estimation of a two‐dimensional seismic compressional‐wave velocity distribution by iterative tomographic imaging

Two-dimensional velocity distributions may be estimated using iterative tomographic imaging. The medium is parameterized as a grid of small rectangular elements, each of which has constant (unknown) slowness (s); the data are refraction travel-times (t) picked from the real data, which are transmitted between sources and recorders both located on the Earth's surface. Slowness estimation is performed by solution of the system of equations t = DsT where D is a matrix of ray segment lengths, and T denotes the vector transpose. The solution involves minimization of the difference between the real and predicted travel-times and is equally applicable to under and over-determined problems. As matrix D is very large it cannot be inverted directly, and a row-action, simultaneous iterative reconstruction technique is used. Predicted travel-times are obtained by vectorized ray tracing. Rays are updated every few iterations so that they are internally consistent with the velocity estimated by tomography. The wider the source and recording apertures, the greater the depths that can be imaged. Rays refracted at the shallowest depths contain independent constraints that cannot be replaced by increasing the amount of data refracted at greater depths.
Near-resonant electron transfer in cesium sputtering from a metal surface: work function dependence

Abstract The dependence of ionization probability on the work function of the metal surface (W(110)) for chemisorbed Cs sputtering from the surface has been calculated. The interaction potentials are obtained with the Diatomics in Molecules procedure and supplemented with surface properties in order to reproduce the properties of chemisorbed Cs. Good agreement with experimental results is achieved and a dramatic reduction in emerging ions is found to occur when the Fermi level is 0.36 eV above the ionization potential of Cs.
Macroevolution: Dynamics of Diversity

The fossil record typically exhibits very dynamic patterns of innovation, diversification and extinction. In contrast, molecular phylogenies suggest smoother patterns of evolutionary change. Several new studies reconcile this difference and reveal more about the mechanisms behind macroevolutionary change.
Weapons to fuel

The economic implications of the U.S.‐Russian HEU agreement remain uncertain, and will depend on the health of the uranium market and the performance of the U.S. gaseous diffusion enrichment plants. The agreement, however, could be essential for the dismantlement of nuclear weapons in Russia. It also provides an opportunity to develop security, economic and institutional arrangements that would be useful in dealing with fissile materials from weapons in the future.
Causes of cheyne-stokes respiration

Cheyne-Stokes respiration (CSR) is one of several types of unusual breathing with recurrent apneas (dysrhythmias). Reported initially in patients with heart failure or stroke, it was then recognized both in other diseases and as a component of the sleep apnea syndrome. CSR is potentiated and perpetuated by changing states of arousal that occur during sleep. The recurrent hypoxia and surges of sympathetic activity that often occur during the apneas may have serious health consequences. Heart failure and stroke are risk factors for sleep apnea. The recurrent apneas and intermittent hypoxia occurring with sleep apnea further damage the heart and brain. Although all breathing dysrhythmias do not have the same cause, instability in the feedback control involved in the chemical regulation of breathing is the leading cause of CSR. Mathematical models have helped greatly in the understanding of the causes of recurrent apneas.
The combinatorics of all regular flexagons

Flexagons were discovered in 1939 by topologist Arthur Stone. A regular flexagon is one that contains 9n equilateral triangular regions on a straight strip of paper. This paper is then rolled into smaller strips of paper and finally into a hexagon with 6 triangular regions called pats, producing one mathematical face. The pinch flex removes the uppermost triangular regions and replaces them with a new set producing a new face. The flexagon is said to have order 3n because you can color 3n of the faces with 3n different colors. It is well known that when only the pinch flex is used, a flexagon of order 3n is a mobius band with 3(3n-2) half-twists, and has 6n-3 different mathematical faces. Even though a colored face appears more than once, the uppermost triangles might be rotated producing a different mathematical face. When T. Bruce McLean described the V-flex on the flexagon of order 6 in 1979, he showed that it now had 3420 mathematical faces and provided a graph that demonstrated how to reach all of the different faces. This flex scrambles the colors similar to the way the Rubik's cube does except that a flexagon is flat. It is the purpose of this paper to provide an algorithm that counts the number of mathematical faces for flexagons of order 3n for all n, once the V-flex is included. A theorem in this paper gives a recursive formula that counts the number of different pats of a given thickness (or degree). To start the count for the number of mathematical faces of a regular flexagon of order 3n an ordered set of 6 degrees that add to 9n is considered. The adjacent degrees must add to a multiple of three according to the axioms of a flexagon using both flexes. Two sets are equivalent if you can rotate one six-tuplet into the other. Then for each case, the number of pats given by this Theorem that have degrees of those 6 numbers can be multiplied by the fundamental theorem of counting and these are called initial faces after rotations are removed. The last step in the count is to allow for translations of the flexagon and when there is no symmetry, you can multiply the number of initial faces by 9n. You can only multiply by 3n when there is complete symmetry. The Java applets provided only work for the traditional integer data type.
Procedures to improve prescribing and dispensing of oral contraceptives at an academic medical center

Purpose An initiative to improve procedures and safeguards for inpatient oral contraceptive use at an academic medical center is described. Summary A retrospective chart review was conducted to determine patterns of oral contraceptive use and potential areas for quality improvement. During the six-month period covered by the chart review, a total of 95 oral contraceptive orders were placed for 55 patients, mainly for continuation of home contraception (24% of cases) and other indications unrelated to the patients’ primary diagnoses, such as menorrhagia (23% of cases); more than 1 in 5 (22%) of those orders were for non-formulary products, and about 35% of the prescribed regimens called for multiple daily dosages. The evaluation also focused on pharmacy procedures for stocking and dispensing oral contraceptives, as well as procedures for processing oral contraceptive orders through the computerized prescriber-order-entry (CPOE) system. In addition to discrepancies in the numbers and types of oral contraceptive products on the formulary and in pharmacy inventories, the review identified suboptimal CPOE controls and dispensing practices that posed an undue risk of nurse confusion and administration errors. Pursuant to the evaluation, a number of system and procedural changes were recommended, approved by the medical center’s pharmacy and therapeutics committee, and implemented. Conclusion A review of existing processes for the use of oral contraceptives led to the identification of several strategies to improve prescribing and dispensing practices. Strategies to improve medication safety included reducing the number of oral contraceptive products on the formulary, modifying the CPOE system to restrict ordering to formulary products, dispensing only tablets that contain active drug, and repackaging oral contraceptives in unit dose form.
NMC Overview: Recent Progress and Future Plans

Abstract This article describes the mission and organization of the National Meteorological Center (NMC), summarizes progress since the introduction of the CYBER 205 computers in 1983, and describes plans for NMC numerical prediction systems in the 1990s. Plans include the introduction of a new mewsoscale “storm” model on next generation computers, continued improvements in the resolution and physics of the NMC global model, and extension of daily forecasts from 5 to 7 days with a “week-two” forecast of average weather conditions.