cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Treated PDR Reveals Age-Appropriate Vision Deterioration But Distorted Retinal Organization.

Purpose We determined the progression of visual function, macular structure, and quality of life in patients with regressed proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) after panretinal photocoagulation (PRP). Methods In this prospective study, 22 patients who underwent PRP for PDR and 11 age-matched control participants underwent examinations at baseline and after 5 years. Visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, reading acuity, frequency doubling perimetry, Humphrey field analyzer, and dark adaptation were measured. The Low Luminance Questionnaire and National Eye Institute Vision Function Questionnaire-25 were administered. Macular spectral-domain optical coherence tomography was taken. Results After 5 years, patients who had previously undergone PRP for PDR (18.4 ± 7.9 years previously) showed significant deterioration in contrast sensitivity, reading acuity, frequency doubling perimetry 24-2 pattern standard deviation, and Humphrey field analyzer 10-2 foveal sensitivity, which were equivalent to age-related decreases in control participants. They revealed no further impairment in vision-related activities on questionnaires. In contrast with controls, their maculas showed pathologic disorganization of the retinal layers, especially the nerve fiber layer, which were thicker and constituted a greater proportion of the overall retinal thickness than the norm and associated with impaired vision. Conclusions Patients with treated PDR had age-related decreases in vision, but stable quality of life. Prior injuries from the diabetes and, possibly, laser treatment led to substantial disruption in the retinal structure, which may explain the loss of vision. Translational relevance Despite PRP treatment, patients with regressed PDR had pathologic progression of the nerve fiber layer; further investigation may identify a new therapeutic target to reverse the visual deficits.
Automatic Big Data Acquisition of Electrical Parameters in Wide Bandgap Devices

This paper presents an automatic big data acquisition experiment platform dedicated for online monitoring of $V_{th}$ and $R_{ds, on}$ of GaN HEMTs. A new circuit topology combining power cycling test and double pulse test (DPT) together is proposed for measuring $R_{ds, on}$ and $V_{th}$ . Gate driver signals are used to trigger two oscilloscopes to continuously and automatically store data. A quasi $V_{th}$ online monitoring circuit has been implemented using fast comparator to monitor turn on transient of GaN devices. A hot plate has been used to preheat device under test (DUT), so the initial temperature in each cycle can be controlled. At the beginning of each cycle, DSP gives a double pulse signal to DUT and the platform is working in double test mode. So $V_{tk}$ can be acquired at the same junction temperature. After that, the platform changes to power cycling test mode through controlling super junction MOSFET to turn on/off and also sending turn on/off signals to power supply. In order to make sure $R_{ds, on}$ is recorded at the same junction temperature in each cycle, $R_{d\mathrm{s},on}$ should be calculated at the beginning moment of the first cycle power cycling test. After 10 cycles of power cycling test, there should be a long cooling period before starting the next DPT. In this way, $V_{th}$ can be acquired at the same junction temperature. The whole experiment process is controlled by DSP, so it can operate automatically and acquire big data efficiently.
Progress in translational reproductive science: testicular tissue transplantation and in vitro spermatogenesis.

Since the birth of the first child conceived via in vitro fertilization 40 years ago, fertility treatments and assisted reproductive technology have allowed many couples to reach their reproductive goals. As of yet, no fertility options are available for men who cannot produce functional sperm, but many experimental therapies have demonstrated promising results in animal models. Both autologous (stem cell transplantation, de novo morphogenesis, and testicular tissue grafting) and outside-the-body (xenografting and in vitro spermatogenesis) approaches exist for restoring sperm production in infertile animals with varying degrees of success. Once safety profiles are established and an ideal patient population is chosen, some of these techniques may be ready for human experimentation in the near future, with likely clinical implementation within the next decade.
Transforming loss: A developing concept for nursing.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of the concept transforming loss for its use in knowledge development and practice improvement. Method A published 10-phase process guided development of this concept. The name and defining core qualities were constructed through a practice story and further understood through a review of the literature. A model was created to represent relationships between the core qualities, and a middle range theory lifted the concept up the ladder of abstraction. Gathering a story with parents experiencing a life changing event with their child led to the synthesis of a mini-saga to describe what is known about the concept. Finally, the development of a mini-synthesis brought the concept building process together to include a population, definition, and research direction. Implications Structured by the concept transforming loss, further research will include conceptual development through a rigorous review of the literature and empirical development by gathering stories of parents who have experienced a life-altering event of their child.
Women in Podcasting: We Should Tune In

Since the early 2000s, podcasting, or audioblogging, has been gaining popularity as an easy and inexpensive way to disseminate information.1 In medicine, podcasts are increasingly used as an education tool, both in graduate medical education and for continuing medical education (CME).2 The 2019 Infinite Dial study found that the total number of Americans aged 12 or older who have ever listened to a podcast exceeded 50% for the first time ever.3 Despite this rise in podcast consumption, there are still important sex-based differences between podcast hosts and listeners. The 2019 Infinite Dial study also found that among monthly podcast listeners, women lag behind men, with 46% of listeners identifying as women and 54% identifying as men.4 Similarly, the role of podcast host has traditionally been held by white men and has been slow to change.5 In fact, in 2017, only about one-third of the top 100 podcasts on Apple were hosted or co-hosted by women.6 This commentary explores sex and gender differences in podcasting, including why it matters to have diverse representation, sociocultural barriers to acquiring technological expertise, the impact of voice preference, and future directions for women entering the podcasting sphere. In researching this commentary, the authors found a relative dearth of information regarding women in the podcasting space, specifically regarding medical podcasts. This furthers the idea that more investigation into this topic needs to be done and is a possible area for future research.
Electrically conductive 3D printed Ti3C2Tx MXene-PEG composite constructs for cardiac tissue engineering.

Tissue engineered cardiac patches have great potential as a therapeutic treatment for myocardial infarction (MI). However, for successful integration with the native tissue and proper function of the cells comprising the patch, it is crucial for these patches to mimic the ordered structure of the native extracellular matrix and the electroconductivity of the human heart. In this study, a new composite construct that can provide both conductive and topographical cues for human induced pluripotent stem cell derived cardiomyocytes (iCMs) is developed for cardiac tissue engineering applications. The constructs are fabricated by 3D printing conductive titanium carbide (Ti3C2Tx) MXene in pre-designed patterns on polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogels, using aerosol jet printing, at a cell-level resolution and then seeded with iCMs and cultured for one week with no signs of cytotoxicity. The results presented in this work illustrate the vital role of 3D-printed Ti3C2Tx MXene on aligning iCMs with a significant increase in MYH7, SERCA2, and TNNT2 expressions, and with an improved synchronous beating as well as conduction velocity. This study demonstrates that 3D printed Ti3C2Tx MXene can potentially be used to create physiologically relevant cardiac patches for the treatment of MI.
Clostridium difficile appendicitis in an immunocompromised patient: a case report and review of the literature.

Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) is a common cause of infectious colitis in individuals with prior antibiotic or hospital exposure. Extraintestinal manifestations of C. difficile infections, however, are rare. Here we present a case of C. difficile appendicitis in an immunocompromised patient. A 53-year-old Caucasian male presented to the emergency room for two days of lower abdominal pain associated with nausea and subjective fevers. He otherwise denied having diarrhea or hematochezia. He did not have any recent hospitalizations, nursing home stays, or antibiotic exposure. His past medical history was notable for stage III tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma for which he was status post tonsillectomy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy (cisplatin 4 days prior to presentation). He was afebrile with tenderness to palpation in the bilateral lower quadrants, right greater than left. His white blood cell (WBC) count was 15.6 × 103 cells/μL. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis showed marked edema and inflammation of the cecum and ascending colon as well as an enlarged appendix with surrounding inflammatory changes with a small amount of free fluid in the right paracolic gutter. He was treated non-surgically with antibiotics. He did not clinically improve and on hospital day 3, he developed diarrhea for which C. difficile stool polymerase chain reaction was sent. Repeat CT of the abdomen and pelvis was performed which showed progression to pan-colitis and persistent appendicitis. C. difficile testing later resulted positive, for which oral vancomycin was started. The patient markedly improved with medical management alone and was subsequently discharged on oral vancomycin. Our case highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for C. difficile in a patient presenting with both appendicitis and colitis, with prompt diagnosis and treatment being essential.
Occlusion of an Aortobifemoral Graft after Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty

With the aging population, the demand for total hip arthroplasty is rising. Improvements in arthroplasty techniques and design allow for total hip arthroplasty to be increasingly performed in older patients and those with multiple comorbidities. Complications are rare in young and healthy patients; however, there is greater risk in patients with multiple medical comorbidities and those who have had prior revision procedures. Large-vessel thrombosis is an especially rare, but potentially devastating, complication, particularly in patients with existing major-vessel bypass grafts. Only 3 case reports of major-vessel graft occlusion after total hip arthroplasty have been reported in the literature, and none after revision. In this article, we report a case of occlusion of an aortobifemoral graft after revision total hip arthroplasty for periprosthetic joint infection.
Aerosol Generation During Laryngology Procedures in the Operating Room.

OBJECTIVE Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 spreads through respiratory fluids. We aim to quantify aerosolized particles during laryngology procedures to understand their potential for transmission of infectious aerosol-based diseases. STUDY DESIGN Prospective quantification of aerosol generation. METHODS Airborne particles (0.3-25 μm in diameter) were measured during live-patient laryngology surgeries using an optical particle counter positioned 60 cm from the oral cavity to the surgeon's left. Measurements taken during the procedures were compared to baseline concentrations recorded immediately before each procedure. Procedures included direct laryngoscopy with general endotracheal anesthesia (GETA), direct laryngoscopy with jet ventilation, and carbon dioxide (CO2 ) laser use with or without jet ventilation, all utilizing intermittent suction. RESULTS Greater than 99% of measured particles were 0.3 to 1.0 μm in diameter. Compared to baseline, direct laryngoscopy was associated with a significant 6.71% increase in cumulative particles, primarily 0.3 to 1.0 μm particles (P < .0001). 1.0 to 25 μm particles significantly decreased (P < .001). Jet ventilation was not associated with a significant change in cumulative particles; when analyzing differential particle sizes, only 10 to 25 μm particles exhibited a significant increase compared to baseline (+42.40%, P = .002). Significant increases in cumulative particles were recorded during CO2 laser use (+14.70%, P < .0001), specifically in 0.3 to 2.5 μm particles. Overall, there was no difference when comparing CO2 laser use during jet ventilation versus GETA. CONCLUSIONS CO2 laser use during laryngology surgery is associated with significant increases in airborne particles. Although direct laryngoscopy with GETA is associated with slight increases in particles, jet ventilation overall does not increase particle aerosolization. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3 Laryngoscope, 131:2759-2765, 2021.
Emerging Bioelectronics for Brain Organoid Electrophysiology

Human brain organoids are generated from three-dimensional (3D) cultures of human induced pluripotent stem cells and embryonic stem cells, which partially replicate the development and complexity of the human brain. Many methods have been used to characterize the structural and molecular phenotypes of human brain organoids. Further understanding the electrophysiological phenotypes of brain organoids requires advanced electrophysiological measurement technologies to achieve long-term stable 3D recording over the time course of the organoid development with single-cell, millisecond spatiotemporal resolution. In this review, first, we briefly introduce the development, generation, and applications of human brain organoids. We then discuss the conventional methods used for characterizing the morphological, genetic, and electrical properties of brain organoids. Next, we highlight the need for characterizing electrophysiological properties of brain organoids in a minimally invasive manner. In particular, we discuss recent advances in the multi-electrode array (MEA), 3D bioelectronics, and flexible bioelectronics and their applications in brain organoid electrophysiological measurement. In addition, we introduce the recently developed cyborg organoids platform as an emerging tool for the long-term stable 3D characterization of the brain organoids electrophysiology at high spatiotemporal resolution. Finally, we discuss the perspectives of new technologies that could achieve the high-throughput, multimodal characterizations from the same brain organoids.
What Is the Impact of Ai and Social Media Analytics on Investor and Trader Behavior in the Stock Markets and Other Financial Contexts

The topic of this research paper will be the impact that AI has in today’s world. More specifically, this paper will be focused on the impact AI has in areas like social media analytics, stock markets, the sports industry and other financial contexts.
Digest: Evolutionary rescue following the introduction of a pathogen

To what extent can adaptive evolution rescue a population from extinction following the introduction of a pathogen? Searle and Christie (2021) show how evolutionary rescues in host-pathogen systems may differ from those that occur in response to abiotic changes. In particular, they pinpoint how epidemiological feedback and pathogen evolution, inherent to host-pathogen systems, can greatly affect the likelihood of rescue.
Characterizing impact of positive lymph node number in endometrial cancer using machine-learning: A better prognostic indicator than FIGO staging?

Abstract Background Number of involved lymph nodes (LNs) is a crucial stratification factor in staging of numerous disease sites, but has not been incorporated for endometrial cancer. We evaluated whether number of involved LNs provide improved prognostic value. Patients and methods Patients diagnosed with node-positive endometrial adenocarcinoma without distant metastasis were identified in the National Cancer Database. We trained a machine-learning based model of overall survival. Shapley additive explanation values (SHAP) based on the model were used to identify cutoffs of number of LNs involved. Results were validated using a Cox proportional hazards regression model. Results We identified 11,381 patients with endometrial cancer meeting the inclusion criteria. Using the SHAP values, we selected the following thresholds: 1–3 LNs, 4–5 LNs, and 6+ LNs. The 3-year OS was 82.0% for 1–3 LNs, 74.3% for 4–5 LNs (hazard ratio [HR] 1.38; p Conclusion Number of involved LNs is a stronger prognostic and predictive factor compared to PA node involvement.
Vitamin D Metabolite-Mediated Hypercalcemia and Hypercalciuria Patients With AIDS- and Non-AIDS-Associated Lymphoma

Fifteen patients with lymphoma and hypercalcemia (greater than or equal to 11.0 mg/dL) were identified by screening the serum chemistry profile obtained from patients upon admission to the Los Angeles County/USC Medical Center. Seven of the 15 (47%) possessed a frankly elevated serum concentration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25-(OH)2-D]. An additional patient with severe hypercalcemia (16.2 mg/dL) had a serum 1,25-(OH)2-D concentration in the midnormal range, not a suppressed value. To examine the potential existence of hypercalciuria in absence of overt hypercalcemia, prospective screening of 23 normocalcemic patients with lymphoma was undertaken. Four of the 23 patients (17%) had increased fractional urinary calcium excretion rates (0.35 +/- 0.3 mg calcium/100 mL glomerular filtrate [GF], mean +/- SE; normal, less than 0.16 mg/100 mL GF); two of the hypercalciuric patients had a frankly elevated serum 1,25-(OH)2-D concentration. Of the 19 hypercalcemic/hypercalciuric lymphoma patients identified, none had an elevated serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone concentration. Fourteen of the 19 hypercalcemic/hypercalciuric patients (74%) suffered from B-cell neoplasms, three had Hodgkin's lymphoma, and two had adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma. All hypercalcemic/hypercalciuric patients had widespread disease (stage III or IV). Six patients, four with hypercalcemia and two with hypercalciuria, had acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). These data suggest that the deregulated synthesis of a 1,25-(OH)2-D-like metabolite is a common cause of hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria in patients with lymphoma including patients with AIDS-associated tumors.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy

Children who are unable to maintain adequate nutrition due to poor oral intake require enteral feeding [1–4]. In this situation, a clinical judgement is usually made between either nasogastric feeds or gastrostomy. The decision hinges on the benefits of a long-term gastrostomy versus the risks of the procedure [5]. Nasogastric feeds are often commenced initially, and a decision to proceed with gastrostomy occurs when it becomes clear that longer-term or permanent enteral feeding is required. The commonest reason for gastrostomy placement in children is neurological disability (congenital or acquired brain injury), followed by other indications such as congenital heart disease, chronic lung disease, cystic fibrosis, congenital malformations that prevent swallowing and malignancy [6, 7].
Judicial Opinions as "Minefields of Misinformation": Antecedents, Consequences and Remedies

Discussing factors that may make judicial opinions a minefield of misinformation, Seventh Circuit Judge Richard Posner hypothesizes . . . judges' knowledge of the world . . . relevant to legal decision making, derives to a significant degree from judicial opinions that, he suggests, may often be systematically unreliable sources of information. To test this hypothesis, Judge Posner urges academic commentators to expand their study of cases beyond judicial opinions . . . [and] get hold of the briefs and record to check the accuracy of the factual recitals in the opinion. Doing as Judge Posner proposes yields support for his hypothesis. The analysis also reveals that where a court's factual recitals do not comport with the underlying record, the negative effects can extend beyond the delivery of justice in the instant matter to denigrating subsequent case law and generating other adverse effects as well. After considering the antecedents and consequents of erroneous factual recitals, remedies are suggested for mitigating the problem.
Fluorescence studies of nucleotides and polynucleotides. I. Formycin, 2-aminopurine riboside, 2,6-diaminopurine riboside, and their derivatives.

Formycin, 2-aminopurine ribonucleoside, and 2,6-diaminopurine ribonucleoside are analogues of adenosine in base pairing and in a wide variety of enzymatic reactions. These chromophores, in contrast to adenine and other naturally occurring bases, are fluorescent under physiological conditions. Another noteworthy feature of these analogues is that they can be selectively excited in the presence of normal bases because their absorption bands occur at longer wave lengths. The fluorescence properties of these compounds, and of their phosphorylated derivatives, over a wide range of temperature, pH, and ionic strength, are reported here. Incorporation of formycin or 2-aminopurine into a perfectly alternating ribocopolymer results in a 100-fold reduction of the quantum yield of fluorescence. The residual fluorescence comes from chromophores at the ends of the polymer. Thermal denaturation of the helical structure is accompanied by a 3- to 10-fold increase in quantum yield. The pH and temperature dependence of the fluorescence of transfer RNA with formycin residue in place of the terminal adenosine indicates that the terminal formycin residue interacts with other parts of the transfer RNA molecule. Some potential applications of these analogues in studies of the structure and function of nucleic acids and proteins are: analysis of protein-nucleic acid interaction, polynucleotide conformation and conformational transitions, enzyme-coenzyme interaction, and nuclease assay.
Amylin deposition in the brain: A second amyloid in Alzheimer disease?

Objective Hyperamylinemia, a common pancreatic disorder in obese and insulin-resistant patients, is known to cause amylin oligomerization and cytotoxicity in pancreatic islets, leading to β-cell mass depletion and development of type 2 diabetes. Recent data has revealed that hyperamylinemia also affects the vascular system, heart, and kidneys. We therefore hypothesized that oligomerized amylin might accumulate in the cerebrovascular system and brain parenchyma of diabetic patients. Methods Amylin accumulation in the brain of diabetic patients with vascular dementia or Alzheimer disease (AD), nondiabetic patients with AD, and age-matched healthy controls was assessed by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Amylin oligomers and plaques were identified in the temporal lobe gray matter from diabetic patients, but not controls. In addition, extensive amylin deposition was found in blood vessels and perivascular spaces. Intriguingly, amylin deposition was also detected in blood vessels and brain parenchyma of patients with late onset AD without clinically apparent diabetes. Mixed amylin and amyloid β (Aβ) deposits were occasionally observed. However, amylin accumulation leads to amyloid formation independent of Aβ deposition. Tissues infiltrated by amylin showed increased interstitial space, vacuolation, spongiform change, and capillaries bent at amylin accumulation sites. Unlike the pancreas, there was no evidence of amylin synthesis in the brain. Interpretation Metabolic disorders and aging promote accumulation of amylin amyloid in the cerebrovascular system and gray matter, altering microvasculature and tissue structure. Amylin amyloid formation in the wall of cerebral blood vessels may also induce failure of elimination of Aβ from the brain, thus contributing to the etiology of AD. Ann Neurol 2013;74:517–526
Green, Green Destiny

"THOSE BAPTISTS will plop a church down anywhere. All those evan gels are just the same. Driving home today I saw where they converted the old drawbridge tollbooth, converted it right into a sinners do-drop in. I would not be the least bit surprised or astonished to see some small new meeting hall cropped up anywhere. They'll probably have one down to the frozen food department at the Krogers. The Krogers, nevermind you. I would not be astounded."
Explorations on the Notion of Legal Tolerance

This article builds on the notion of legal tolerance and analyzes the scope of its definition. It situates the notion in the complex set of relations occurring between the major systems of society. Generally, legal tolerance, as a concept, is understood in light of the possibilities of the legal system of influencing other major systems’ responses. On the other hand, tolerance is also the response of the legal system in respect to other major systems’ communications. Although there is a common understanding of tolerance as “under punishing bias” in criminology or as political tolerance in political science, 1 the focus of this article is different. The central points here are, first, the analysis of legal tolerance as part of systemic communications and, second, the historicity of the transformations of the nation-state in its ability to cope with the growth of separate, distinct and partial systems of society. Tolerance seems relational and raises questions such as: “How much can the legal system tolerat...
Distinction between high-affinity [3H]phencyclidine binding sites and muscarinic receptors in guinea-pig ileum muscle.

[3H]Phencyclidine ([3H]PCP) binding was studied in guinea-pig ileum muscle membranes. Specific binding of [3H]PCP was time dependent, reversible and saturable, with an equilibrium dissociation constant of 154 nM and maximum binding of 12.9 pmol/mg of protein at pH 9. Its pH dependency suggests that the unionized PCP is the pharmacologically active form. The binding site was on a protein which was sensitive to heat, proteolytic enzymes and the carboxylic group reagent dicyclohexylcarbodiimide, but insensitive to phospholipase A and C, concanavalin A, dithiothreitol and N-ethylmaleimide. Specific [3H]PCP binding was displaced effectively by several PCP analogs and Ca++ channel antagonists including verapamil, to which these sites had a high affinity. These high-affinity PCP-binding sites were found at a much higher concentration in the same membrane preparation than muscarinic receptor sites identified by their specific binding of [3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate. PCP bound to both sites, but with a lower affinity to the muscarinic receptor sites. The PCP and muscarinic receptor sites differed in their sensitivities to pH and drug specifities .
Variable region cDNA sequences of three mouse monoclonal anti-idiotypic antibodies specific for anti-α(1→6)dextrans with groove- or cavity-type combining sites

Abstract The variable regions of three syngeneic anti-idiotypic antibodies (Ab2s) were cloned and sequenced. They are encoded by different VL genes, two are from different members of Vg-Ox1 superfamily. The H chains are encoded by VH genes belonging to three different VH families, J558, Q52 and 7183. Together with a previous report from this laboratory, the nucleotide sequences of four Ab2s to anti-α(1→6)dextrans have been presented. They are derived from a number of unrelated germline genes, and differ from similar studies in anti-NP, anti-GAT and anti-Ars systems. Three of four Ab2s in the anti-α(1→6)dextran system appear to have D-D fusions, which has also been reported in several other Ab2s.
Nursing interventions to promote dignified dying in four countries.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES To describe nursing interventions to promote dignified dying as identified by nurses in four countries. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey design. SETTING Hospitals and clinics in Ethiopia, India, Kenya, and the United States. SAMPLE A convenience sample of 560 nurses who cared for dying patients in Ethiopia (n = 14), India (n = 229), Kenya (n = 36), and the United States (n = 281). METHODS Nurses who agreed to participate completed the International Classification for Nursing Practice Dignified Dying Survey. Responses to an open-ended survey question about the interventions nurses use to promote dignified dying were analyzed qualitatively. MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES Nursing interventions. FINDINGS The Dignity-Conserving Care Model provided a framework to analyze nursing interventions used to promote dignified dying. Although some variation was found in the interventions used, nurses from all four countries identified interventions representing each of the three major categories of the model: illness-related concerns, a dignity-conserving repertoire, and a social-dignity inventory. CONCLUSIONS Nurses identified the holistic nature of the dying experience and the multiple interventions needed to promote dignity for dying patients and their family members. Palliative care is an area of practice that crosses healthcare settings, specialties, countries, and cultures. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING This study begins to identify specific interventions for future research and applies the Dignity-Conserving Care Model to further understand dignified dying from an international nursing perspective.
pH-Controlled Assembly and Properties of LbL Membranes from Branched Conjugated Poly(alkoxythiophene sulfonate) and Various Polycations

We report on multilayer layer-by-layer (LbL) films of the conjugated polymer sodium poly[2-(3-thienyl)ethyloxy-4-butylsulfonate] (PTH) assembled with polycations: poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDDA), 20% quaternized poly(N-ethyl-4-vinylpyridinium bromide) (Q20), poly(ethylene imine) (PEI), and poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH). These films were prepared through spin-assisted LbL assembly under various pH conditions. We demonstrated a crucial role of the deposition pH in formation of PTH/polycation films and showed that decrease in the deposition pH from 7.5 to 2.5 limits the PTH multilayer formation to Q20/PTH and PDDA/PTH films due to reduced charge density in the poly(thiophene) chains. We show that optical and surface properties of the resulting PTH/polycation films can be tuned by varying a polycation component and/or by varying the deposition pH. The fluorescence properties of the Q20/PTH, PEI/PTH, and PDDA/PTH films are pH-dependent, and the films exhibit the drastic changes in photoluminescent intensity when transferred into solutions with different pH values, which may find useful in optical sensing applications.
Prostaglandins: Stimulation of Bone Resorption in Tissue Culture

Prostaglandins (PG’s) stimulated resorption of fetal rat bone in 48–96 hr tissue culture. The effects of several PG’s were compared to the stimulation of bone resorption caused by parathyroid hormone (PTH). PGE1 and PGE2 caused increased release of previously incorporated radioactive calcium into the medium, losses of stable and labeled Ca from the bone and morphologic changes of osteoclastic resorption at 10−5-10−8M. The effects of PGE1 and PGE2 were similar to those of PTH (10−7- 10−8M) but in some experiments the effects of maximal doses of PTH were larger at 48 hr. Like PTH, the effects of PGE1 were inhibited by thyrocalcitonin and cortisol. PGA1 and PGFlα also stimulated bone resorption but only at higher doses (10−5M). In vivo studies demonstrated that injections of PGE1 in parathyroidectomized rats did not increase serum calcium concentration, while parathyroid extract (4–40 U/rat) was effective. (Endocrinology 86: 1436, 1970)
Characterization of bacterial communities in solarized soil amended with lignocellulosic organic matter

Abstract Solarization can provide thermal inactivation of weed seeds and phytopathogens through passive solar heating of moist soil covered with clear plastic tarp. Microbial respiration in soils, especially those with increasing levels of organic matter, can augment solarization to produce soil temperatures higher than those achieved by solar heating alone. Currently, it is unclear how solarization affects microbial community structure in soils amended with organic matter to promote microbial activity. In this study, a field trial was conducted in the San Joaquin Valley of California to solarize an irrigated, agricultural field soil which was either amended with mature green waste compost destabilized with wheat bran, or not amended. Following 22 days of treatment during July–August 2011, soil from three depth increments (0–5.8, 5.8–11.6, and 11.6–17.4 cm) was subjected to 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing to characterize microbial communities. The sequencing data obtained revealed similar microbial species richness and evenness in both solarized amended and non-amended soil. However, the taxonomic composition of communities differed by treatment. Furthermore, community structure within each treatment changed with soil depth, indicating potential enrichment of thermophilic bacteria in layers that experienced greatest heating, as well as changes related to alterations in the soil atmosphere. Certain bacteria detected in solarized, compost-amended soil may be relevant to agriculture and plant biomass deconstruction processes.
Transimmunization, a novel approach for tumor immunotherapy

This review describes our experience with the development of a novel form of immunotherapy that may represent the first practical and effective means of performing tumor-loaded dendritic cell (DC) immunotherapy. We have modified the highly successful extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) treatment that has been used in the therapy of cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL). autoimmune disease, transplantation rejection episodes and graft-versus-host disease to enhance its efficacy by the addition of an overnight incubation period. This adaption of ECP is termed "transimmunization (TI)" since the new therapy permits transfer of tumor antigens that have been previously poorly recognized to potent antigen presenting cells where the tumor epitopes can be displayed in the full context of major histocompatibility, co-stimulatory and adhesion molecules. The TI modification of ECP is a practical and safe means of rapidly inducing DC differentiation from peripheral blood monocytes in the presence of apoptotic tumor cells. Uptake of the apoptotic CTCL cells by the immature DC, in the presence of inflammatory cytokines, further drives their maturation into potent antigen presenting cells. Reinfusion of these tumor-loaded DC, that have access to the full spectrum of tumor antigens, has the potential to invoke an anti-tumor immune response in the recipient. Standard ECP has been a very useful form of immunotherapy and a modification of this approach that can enhance its ellicacy and utility should broaden its application to a larger variety of disorders including potentially the treatment of solid tumors and the modulation of the immune response in graft-versus-leukemia and graft-versus-host transplantation regimens. An understanding of the mechanism of ECP and TI will provide the physician with the ability to more finely tune the desired immune response and thereby, provide an enhanced immunotherapy for malignancy and other disorders of immunocompetence.
An interaction‐based analysis of calcium‐induced conformational changes in Ca2+ sensor proteins

Calcium sensor proteins translate transient increases in intracellular calcium levels into metabolic or mechanical responses, by undergoing dramatic conformational changes upon Ca2+ binding. A detailed analysis of the calcium binding-induced conformational changes in the representative calcium sensors calmodulin (CaM) and troponin C was performed to obtain insights into the underlying molecular basis for their response to the binding of calcium. Distance difference matrices, analysis of interresidue contacts, comparisons of interhelical angles, and inspection of structures using molecular graphics were used to make unbiased comparisons of the various structures. The calcium-induced conformational changes in these proteins are dominated by reorganization of the packing of the four helices within each domain. Comparison of the closed and open conformations confirms that calcium binding causes opening within each of the EF-hands. A secondary analysis of the conformation of the C-terminal domain of CaM (CaM-C) clearly shows that CaM-C occupies a closed conformation in the absence of calcium that is distinct from the semi-open conformation observed in the C-terminal EF-hand domains of myosin light chains. These studies provide insight into the structural basis for these changes and into the differential response to calcium binding of various members of the EF-hand calcium-binding protein family. Factors contributing to the stability of the Ca2+-loaded open conformation are discussed, including a new hypothesis that critical hydrophobic interactions stabilize the open conformation in Ca2+ sensors, but are absent in "non-sensor" proteins that remain closed upon Ca2+ binding. A role for methionine residues in stabilizing the open conformation is also proposed.
Objective method to report planner-independent skin/rib maximal dose in balloon-based high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy for breast cancer

Purpose: An objective method was proposed and compared with a manual selection method to determine planner-independent skin and rib maximal dose in balloon-based high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy planning. Methods: The maximal dose to skin and rib was objectively extracted from a dose volume histogram (DVH) of skin and rib volumes. A virtual skin volume was produced by expanding the skinsurface in three dimensions (3D) external to the breast with a certain thickness in the planning computed tomography(CT)images. Therefore, the maximal dose to this volume occurs on the skinsurface the same with a conventional manual selection method. The rib was also delineated in the planning CTimages and its maximal dose was extracted from its DVH. The absolute ( Abdiff = | D max Man − D max DVH | ) and relative ( Rediff [ % ] = 100 × ( | D max Man − D max DVH | ) / D max DVH ) maximal skin and rib dose differences between the manual selection method ( D max Man ) and the objective method ( D max DVH ) were measured for 50 balloon-based HDR (25 MammoSite® and 25 Contura®) patients. Results: The average ± standard deviation of maximal dose difference was 1.67 % ± 1.69 % of the prescribed dose (PD). No statistical difference was observed between MammoSite® and Contura® patients for both Abdiff and Rediff[%] values. However, a statistically significant difference ( p value 0.0001 ) was observed in maximal rib dose difference compared with maximal skindose difference for both Abdiff ( 2.30 % ± 1.71 % vs 1.05 % ± 1.43 % ) and Rediff[%] ( 2.32 % ± 1.79 % vs 1.21 % ± 1.41 % ). In general, rib has a more irregular contour and it is more proximally located to the balloon for 50 HDR patients. Due to the inverse square law factor, more dose difference was observed in higher dose range ( D max > 90 % ) compared with lower dose range ( D max 90 % ) : 2.16 % ± 1.93 % vs 1.19 % ± 1.25 % with p value of 0.0049. However, the Rediff[%] analysis eliminated the inverse square factor and there was no statistically significant difference ( p value = 0.8931 ) between high and low dose ranges. Conclusions: The objective method using volumetric information of skin and rib can determine the planner-independent maximal dose compared with the manual selection method. However, the difference was 2 % of PD, on average, if appropriate attention is paid to selecting a manual dose point in 3D planning CTimages.
Sb(III) and Sb(V) Sorption onto Al-Rich Phases: Hydrous Al Oxide and the Clay Minerals Kaolinite KGa-1b and Oxidized and Reduced Nontronite NAu-1

We have studied the immobilization of Sb(III) and Sb(V) by Al-rich phases - hydrous Al oxide (HAO), kaolinite (KGa-1b), and oxidized and reduced nontronite (NAu-1) - using batch experiments to determine the uptake capacity and the kinetics of adsorption and Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS) Spectroscopy to characterize the molecular environment of adsorbed Sb. Both Sb(III) and Sb(V) are adsorbed in an inner-sphere mode on the surfaces of the studied substrates. The observed adsorption geometry is mostly bidentate corner-sharing, with some monodentate complexes. The kinetics of adsorption is relatively slow (on the order of days), and equilibrium adsorption isotherms are best fit using the Freundlich model. The oxidation state of the structural Fe within nontronite affects the adsorption capacity: if the clay is reduced, the adsorption capacity of Sb(III) is slightly decreased, while Sb(V) uptake is increased significantly. This may be a result of the presence of dissolved Fe(II) in the reduced nontronite suspensions or associated with the structural rearrangements in nontronite due to reduction. These research findings indicate that Sb can be effectively immobilized by Al-rich phases. The increase in Sb(V) uptake in response to reducing structural Fe in clay can be important in natural settings since Fe-rich clays commonly go through oxidation-reduction cycles in response to changing redox conditions.
Levinson- and chandrasekhar-type equations for a general discrete-time linear estimation problem

Recursive algorithms for the solution of linear least-squares estimation problems have been based mainly on state-space models. It has been know, however, that such algorithms exist for stationary time-series, using input-output descriptions (e.g., covariance matrices). We introduce a way of classifying stochastic processes in terms of their "distance" from stationarity that leads to a derivation of an efficient Levinson-type algorithm for arbitrary (nonstationary) processes. By adding structure to the covariance matrix, these general results specialize to state-space type estimation algorithms. In particular, the Chandrasekhar equations are shown to be the natural descendants of the Levinson algorithm.
Tissue Valve Is the Preferred Option for Patients Aged 60 and Older

A 60-year-old man presents to your clinic. He has symptomatic severe Aortic stenosis with a bicuspid valve diagnosed by transthoracic echocardiogram. No coronary disease was found on cardiac catheterization. What would be the valve choice in this patient? To answer this question, we need to explore the myths surrounding heart valve prostheses, which include the following: 1. Patients with mechanical valves survive longer. 2. Patients with bioprostheses will never require anticoagulation. 3. Patients on warfarin therapy should get mechanical valve. 4. Patients with mechanical valve should receive mechanical valve at the time of reoperation. 5. Reoperation and structural valve deterioration (SVD) rates are the same. 6. Mechanical valves have better hemodynamics. Response by Suri and Schaff on p 1371 Recently, there has been a monumental shift toward the use of bioprosthetic valves. From the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) database, applications of mechanical valves have decreased from 49.9% in 1997 to 20.5% in 2006, whereas bioprosthetic valve usage increased from 43.6% in 1997 to 78.4% in the aortic position.1 A similar trend was documented in the mitral position; from the STS database, usage of mechanical valve has decreased from 68% in 2000 to 37% in 2007.2 Classic teaching recommends mechanical valve for younger patients because of its durability at the expense of lifetime anticoagulation. In contrast, bioprostheses will free patients from anticoagulation but exposes them to the risk of SVD, which increases with time. As the trend grows toward increased use of bioprostheses, age limit for bioprosthetic valve use versus mechanical valve is intensely debated. According to the most updated American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) guideline from 2008, patient age is no longer on the Class I recommendation for aortic valve replacements (AVR). There is class IIa recommendation to use mechanical valve in patients aged <65 years who do not have a …
Processing and structure of open-celled amorphous metal foams

Amorphous metallic foams with an open-cell structure are processed with the salt replication method by infiltration of a sintered salt pattern with liquid Vit106, a Zr-based bulk metallic glass. After pattern removal in nitric acid, the Vit106 foams exhibit highly uniform pores, about 250lm in size, and relative densities in the range 15–22%. Processing parameters, including pattern selection, sintering, and removal, are investigated. � 2004 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Haze generation effect by pellicle and packing box on photomask

ArF exposure tool have been implementing as a main work force of lithography. And haze generation by high actinic wavelength energy is big issue to be resolved. Many studies have been reported to remove or minimized ion residual on photomask surface and PKL developed haze free process. Even though the surface of photomask is free from ions generating haze defect by haze free process, but the ions from environment like pellicle and packing box make worsen to keep cleanness of photomask. The evaluation of environment effect like outgas from pellicle and packing box have been reported, but it was hard to know pure environmental effect because the surface of photomask was not enough clean to test it. Several pellicles and boxes with different material from supplies were tested in terms of outgas, contamination of ion and threshold energy generating haze. Some material of packing box and pellicle showed very sensitive to keep haze free photomask surface. Keyword: Haze, Pellicle, Storage & package material, Box, Outgas, Storage atmosphere, Sulfate Free Cleaning
Parametric sensitivity and runaway in catalytic reactors: Experiments and theory using carbon monoxide oxidation as an example

Abstract Although many theoretical studies are available in the literature dealing with parametric sensitivity and runaway of chemical reactors, experimental studies are relatively few. This paper described an investigation in which an attempt was made to experimentally verify theoretical results for parametric sensitivity of a fixed-bed catalytic reactor. Carbon monoxide oxidation on CuO catalyst supported on γ-alumina pellets was used as the test reaction. Regions of parametric sensitivity obtained from the generalized sensitivity criterion were compared with corresponding regions obtained experimentally. A good agreement between experiment and theory was obtained.
Identification and break of positive feedback loops in Trojan States Vulnerable Circuits

A systematic method is proposed for automatically identifying and breaking positive feedback loops (PFLs) in Trojan States Vulnerable Circuit. The method first converts the netlist of a circuit into a directed dependency graph (DDG) and then partitions the DDG into strongly connected components (SCCs). It then employs graph theory techniques to detect all PFLs and locate the break-points for every SCC. The proposed method could identify the circuit's vulnerability to Trojan States only by its structure without the computation of DC solutions and it also provides insights on how and where to break the PFLs such that break-loop continuation methods can be applied. With Sub-Bandgap reference and widlar-Banba examples, it is demonstrated that the proposed approach can effectively identify all the PFLs and break-points.