cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Symptom resolution after hysterectomy and alternative treatments for chronic pelvic pain: does depression make a difference?

Objective The purpose of this study was to determine whether depression influences treatment outcomes and to identify predictors of symptom resolution among women with chronic pelvic pain (CPP). Study Design Analysis of 701 women with CPP in the Study of Pelvic Problems, Hysterectomy and Intervention Alternatives prospective cohort study, which included 153 women (22%) with depression. We conducted multivariable analyses to evaluate the influence of depression on pre-/posttreatment differences in symptoms and health-related quality of life and to identify other predictors of symptom improvement. Results CPP treatments included hysterectomy (9%), other surgical treatments (9%), hormonal medications (50%), narcotic analgesics (47%), physical therapy (12%), and nonprescription medications (93%). Depression predicted lower gains in health perception ( P P P P = .039). Conclusion Depression does not influence substantially treatment-related gains in CPP symptom resolution and health-related quality of life. Coexisting depression should not delay treatment for CPP.
Sensitive detection and quantitation of mouse eosinophils in tissues using an enzymatic eosinophil peroxidase assay: its use to rapidly measure pulmonary eosinophilia during experimental respiratory syncytial virus infection of mice

Eosinophils are granular proinflammatory leukocytes implicated in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory processes including allergy, asthma, and in the development of enhanced disease during respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. Here, we adapted a colorimetric assay to measure eosinophil peroxidase (EPO) activity in inflamed mouse lung tissue in order to quantitate pulmonary eosinophilia during experimental RSV infection. Using the substrate o-phenylenediamine dihydrochloride (OPD) in the presence of bromide ions, we show that this assay is able to quantitate limiting numbers of eosinophils in lung tissue homogenates even in the presence of large numbers of infiltrating neutrophils and macrophages. The ability of the EPO assay to selectively quantitate eosinophils in a complex tissue inflammatory infiltrate demonstrates the usefulness of this enzymatic assay as a rapid and sensitive method to quantitate the influx of eosinophils into inflamed mouse tissue such as the lung during experimental RSV infection without reliance on morphologic criteria to identify murine eosinophils in tissues or bronchial lavage fluid.
A 60 GHz Power Amplifier in 90nm CMOS Technology

A two-stage 60 GHz 90 nm CMOS PA has been designed and fabricated. The amplifier has a measured power gain of 9.8 dB. The input is gain matched while the output is matched to maximize the output power. The measured P-1dB = 6.7 dBm with a corresponding power added efficiency of 20%. This amplifier can be used as a pre-driver or as the main PA for short range wireless communication. The output power can be boosted with on-chip or spatial power combining.
Information needs in terminal illness

Despite evidence that doctor-patient communication affects important patient outcomes, patient expectations are often not met. Communication is especially important in terminal illness, when the appropriate course of action may depend more on patient values than on medical dogma. We sought to describe the issues important to terminally ill patients receiving palliative care and to determine whether patient characteristics influence the needs of these patients. We utilized a multimethod approach, first conducting interviews with 22 terminally ill individuals, then using these data to develop a more structured instrument which was administered to a second population of 56 terminally ill patients. Patient needs and concerns were described and associations between patient characteristics and issues of importance were evaluated. Seven key issues were identified in the initial interviews: change in functional status or activity level; role change; symptoms, especially pain; stress of the illness on family members; loss of control; financial burden and conflict between wanting to know what is going on and fearing bad news. Overall, respondent needs were both disease- and illness-oriented. Few easily identifiable patient characteristics were associated with expressed concerns or needs, suggesting that physicians need to individually assess patient needs. Terminally ill patients receiving palliative care had needs that were broad in scope. Given that few patient characteristics predicted responses, and that the majority opinion may not accurately reflect that of an individual patient, health care providers must be aware of the diverse concerns among this population and individualize assessment of each patient's needs and expectations.
Cholinergic suppression of glutamatergic synaptic transmission in hippocampal region CA3 exhibits laminar selectivity: Implication for hippocampal network dynamics

Acetylcholine may help set the dynamics within neural systems to facilitate the learning of new information. Neural models have shown that if new information is encoded at the same time as retrieval of existing information that is already stored, the memories will interfere with each other. Structures such as the hippocampus have a distinct laminar organization of inputs that allows this hypothesis to be tested. In region CA1 of the rat (Sprague Dawley) hippocampus, the cholinergic agonist carbachol (CCh) suppresses transmission in stratum radiatum (SR), at synapses of the Schaffer collateral projection from CA3, while having lesser effects in stratum lacunosum-moleculare (SLM), the perforant path projection from entorhinal cortex (Hasselmo and Schnell, 1994). The current research extends support of this selectivity by demonstrating laminar effects in region CA3. CCh caused significantly greater suppression in SR than in SLM at low concentrations, while the difference in suppression was not significant at higher concentrations. Differences in paired-pulse facilitation suggest presynaptic inhibition substantially contributes to the suppression and is highly concentration and stratum dependent. This selective suppression of the recurrent excitation would be appropriate to set CA3 dynamics to prevent runaway modification of the synapses of excitatory recurrent collaterals by reducing the influence of previously stored associations and allowing incoming information from the perforant path to have a predominant influence on neural activity.
Inhibition of Stat3 activation and tumor growth suppression of non-small cell lung cancer by G-quartet oligonucleotides

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality in the United States. Despite advances made over the past decades, the overall survival of patients with lung cancer remains dismal. Here we report novel G-quartet oligodeoxynucleotides (GQ-ODN) that were designed to selectively target signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3), in the treatment of human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of two novel GQ-ODN STAT3 inhibitors, T40214 and T40231, on NSCLC bearing nude mice. NSCLC bearing nude mice were assigned to 5 groups, which were treated by vehicle, control ODN, T40214, T40231, and Paclitaxel, respectively. Tumors were measured, isolated and analyzed using Western blotting, immuno-histochemistry, RPA and TUNEL. Results show that GQ-ODN T40214 and T40231 significantly suppress the growth of NSCLC tumors in nude mice by selectively inhibiting the activation of Stat3 and its downstream proteins Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, Mcl-1, survivin, VEGF, Cyclin D1 and c-myc; thereby, promoting apoptosis and reducing angiogenesis and cell proliferation. These findings validate Stat3 as an important molecular target for NSCLC therapy and demonstrate the efficacy of GQ-ODN in inhibiting Stat3 phosphorylation.
The changing nature of the ITU Plenipotentiary

Abstract The Plenipotentiary Conference is the supreme organ of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Since the Nairobi Plenipotentiary in 1982, there has been much debate about the role of the Plenipotentiary and even the future of the ITU in the continuing telecommunications revolution. This article explores the major attributes of the Plenipotentiary by comparing the Nairobi Conference with the five post-second world war Plenipotentiaries that preceded it. Criticisms are evaluated and suggestions for improvement are made.
Current Literature for Evidence-Based Infrainguinal Endovascular Treatment

With the proliferation of devices and techniques for lower extremity endovascular revascularization, treatment decisions become increasingly difficult as only limited experience with these new technologies is available for review. This monograph attempts to define the current state of the literature available to guide endovascular treatment of superficial artery disease, and to provide a baseline for future studies.
Dynamics of frequency flow in epileptic brain during extra-temporal partial and idiopathic generalized epilepsy.

Summary Temporal lobe epilepsy has been known to be associated with buildup of 4–7Hz activity preceded by attenuation near the seizure focus. Using a wavelet based algorithm, we recently showed that for the patients with temporal lobe epilepsy, frequency flow on the scalp EEG builds up to 5–12Hz range just prior to and during the initial stages of the seizure. Here we present frequency flow analysis on EEG of patients with extra-temporal partial epilepsy and patients with idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) to investigate any characteristic frequency flow patterns in these patients. We found that frequency flow in these patients also stays sustained in the 5–12Hz range for longer periods of time just prior to and during the initial stages of the seizure compared to their respective baseline interictal recordings. The 5–12Hz frequency flow was seen uniformly in all the channels in patients with IGE although it was seen most prominently adjacent to the seizure focus and to a lesser extent in other channels in patients with partial epilepsy.
Examples of in transit visualization

One of the most pressing issues with petascale analysis is the transport of simulation results data to a meaningful analysis. Traditional workflow prescribes storing the simulation results to disk and later retrieving them for analysis and visualization. However, at petascale this storage of the full results is prohibitive. A solution to this problem is to run the analysis and visualization concurrently with the simulation and bypass the storage of the full results. One mechanism for doing so is in transit visualization in which analysis and visualization is run on I/O nodes that receive the full simulation results but write information from analysis or provide run-time visualization. This paper describes the work in progress for three in transit visualization solutions, each using a different transport mechanism.
Walking in Beauty: An American Indian Perspective on Social Justice.

The purpose of this article is to introduce “walking in beauty,” an American Indian spiritual perspective related to social justice that emphasizes beauty, harmony, connectedness/unity of experience, and imagination. Walking in beauty includes 3 processes: embodiment, creativity, and appreciation of the sublime. Recommendations are offered for counselors to walk in beauty with their clients. This way of being is viewed as a path to social justice.
Elevated ALT and GGT predict all-cause mortality and hepatocellular carcinoma in Taiwanese male: a case-cohort study

Purpose Evidence indicates a positive association between liver enzymes and the risk of death in Western countries; however, the evidence in Asian populations is scarce. We investigated the association between liver enzymes and total, cardiovascular (CVD), cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mortality in a cohort of Taiwanese male free of cancer at baseline.
Wrist disorders in the young athlete

Abstract In the young athlete, forced dorsiflexion causes most wrist injuries. Sudden dorsiflexion from a fall onto theoutstretched hand results in fractures, ligament tears, and joint disruptions. Repetitive dorsiflexion, which occurs in activities such as weightlifting or gymnastics, leads to overuse injuries including physeal stress fractures, bone stress fractures, triangular fibrocartilage complex tears, impingement syndromes, progressive laxity and arthritic degeneration. Wrist braces have not been successful in preventing fractures. Wrist taping or bracing is inadequate to prevent wrist overuse injuries in gymnasts. Treatment of wrist injuries involves rest, splinting or casting, and both open and arthroscopic surgical techniques.
Comment on controlling generalized state-space (descriptor) systems

some confusion in the literature on the controllability of descriptor systems is cleared up.
Disparities among the disadvantaged: Variation in lipid management in the Ohio Medicaid program

Abstract Background. Racial disparities exist in cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention, but other non-clinical factors may influence treatment, further exacerbating disparities. Methods. Using Ohio Medicaid data from 1992 to 1999, we identified a sample of 19,106 individuals with CVD-related diagnoses or procedures. A review of pharmacy claims identified previous, new, and long-term users of lipid-lowering agents, including statins, fibrates, and bile sequestrants. Results. 3934 (20.6%) Medicaid beneficiaries used lipid-lowering medications previously, 1598 (10.5%) filed new claims, and 2998 of 5532 (54.2%) previous or new users filed ≥6 claims for refills. Minority adults ≤60 years were least likely to have been previous users (0.80 [0.67, 0.96]), new users (0.75 [0.58, 0.98]), or to use lipid-lowering agents long-term (0.65 [0.49, 0.84]). Conclusions. Targeted efforts to enhance younger minority adults' receipt and long-term use of lipid-lowering agents may reduce risks for subsequent morbidity and mortality related to CVD.
Relation of the Rate of Penetration and Metabolism to the Toxicity of Sevin to Three Insect Species

Sevin® (1-naphthyl N-methylcarbamate) labelled with C14 has been used on three insect species by topical application in acetone. Sevin is absorbed rapidly into house flies ( Musca dumestica L.), 75% of a dose penetrating within 4 hours. It is rapidly metabolized and excreted, so final toxicity is low as shown by the LD50 = 2.0 μg./ ♀ Resistant house flies differ from susceptible ones only in greater metabolism and consequent lower mortality. If metabolism is prevented by addition of a synergist such as sesamex, the toxicity of Sevin is increased up to fifty-fold, and much of the absorbed Sevin remains in the body unchanged. The critical step is the hydrolysis of Sevin to 1-naphthol and methyl amine, which is controlled by a carbamate esterase enzyme. When this is inhibited, e. g ., by sesamex, the toxicity is high. Sevin penetrates more slowly into the large milkweed bug ( Oncopeltus fasciatus (Dall.)), e. g ., 40% of an applied dose enters in 8 hours. It is metabolized and excreted very slowly so that LD50 is low, i. e ., 0.5 μg./insect. The German cockroach ( Blattella germanica (L.)) absorbs Sevin slowly and metabolizes it rapidly. This results in low toxicity, LD50=20 μg./♂. The metabolic products are different in the three species and are formed by different reactions.
Hybrid optimization: Optimal static traffic control constrained by drivers route choice behavior

This paper considers the static traffic signal control problem in a network with the relaxation of the usual fixed flow asumption implicit in most such studies. Link flows in a traffic network are realistically assumed to be variable because given a set of network control parameters such as signal settings, drivers are free to choose among alternate paths. This is called "hybrid optimization" because it combines the usual notions of user equilibrium and system optimization. Necessary conditions for the optimum solution are derived and discussed. These conditions extend user equilibrium: not only is travel time equalized over utilized paths, but also other quantities related to the system-wide objective. Numerical algorithms are proposed.
View of visualization: its origins, development, and new directions

Abstract Looking back on the history of visualization, as the graphical representation of the results ofscientific computing, we see that visualization has been defined primarily by the technology ofcomputing and displays. The "ancient" history of visualization is that before the publication ofthe NSF Panel's report Visualization and Scientific Computing in 1987 [1]. After a look at thishistory and its technologies, and limitations imposed by those technologies and costs, we review the objectives set out in the panel report and the state of visualization today, especially its limitations and problems. Cost of computer memory was the primary inhibitor of visualizationin the past. Today the bottleneck on visualization comes primarily from limitations in networkbandwidth. Looking at trends in today's technology, as well as trends and opportunities forvisualization in scientific applications, we suggest potential developments in visualization by theend of the century. 1 INTRODUCTION
An X-ray diffraction study of the triaxial normal residual stresses in worn aluminum bronze surfaces

Abstract In metallic systems subjected to sliding wear material loss often results from the formation and subsequent delamination of a transfer layer. This phenomenon has previously been observed in copper-rich aluminum bronzes. The evidence obtained indicates that wear occurs by the delamination of the layer parallel to the surface in the vicinity of the layer-substrate interface. In general, copper-rich aluminum bronzes exhibit increasing wear rates with increasing aluminum content. Since wear results from the failure of the transfer layer, it is expected that factors which affect the stability of the layer should be related to the observed wear rate. One factor could be the residual stress pattern induced during the wear process. In a previous study the in-plane residual stresses were measured on worn copper-rich aluminum bronze samples. The residual stresses were found to be compressive and of increasing magnitude for increasing wear rate (increasing aluminum content). In this investigation the stresses normal to and at some distance below the surface were measured on samples of compositions similar to those used previously. The normal stresses were found to be tensile and increased in magnitude with increasing wear rate. It is suggested that the development of residual stresses normal to the surface may be an important wear-controlling parameter.
Streptococcal competence for genetic transformation: regulation by peptide pheromones.

ABSTRACT Although the capacity for genetic transformation is perhaps the most famous attribute of pneumococcus, use of this genetic phenomenon as a tool for study of the biology of the organism and of its pathogenicity has been largely restricted to a few favored unencapsulated strains, both by the delicacy of the conditions required for development of competence, and by experience that encapsulated strains transformed poorly. We discuss here the recent discovery of a small stable inexpensive peptide pheromone that acts as a quorum-sensing signal and that induces competence under a wide variety of conditions and in encapsulated strains. Its use circumvents some if not all limitations to the expression of transformability in pneumococcus and therefore expands opportunities for application of tools of molecular genetics to many strains of pneumococcus without prior genetic manipulation.
Risk factors for 1-year mortality after thoracic endovascular aortic repair.

Objective Thoracic endovascular aortic repair, although physiologically well tolerated, may fail to confer significant survival benefit in some high-risk patients. In an effort to identify patients most likely to benefit from intervention, the present study sought to determine the risk factors for 1-year mortality after thoracic endovascular aortic repair. Methods A retrospective review was performed on prospectively collected data from all patients undergoing thoracic endovascular aortic repair from 2002 to 2010 at a single institution. Univariate analysis and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis were used to identify risk factors associated with mortality within 1 year after thoracic endovascular aortic repair. Results During the study period, 282 patients underwent at least 1 thoracic endovascular aortic repair; index procedures included descending aortic repair (n = 189), hybrid arch repair (n = 55), and hybrid thoracoabdominal repair (n = 38). The 30-day/in-hospital mortality was 7.4% (n = 21) and the overall 1-year mortality was 19% (n = 54). Cardiopulmonary pathologies were the most common cause of nonperioperative 1-year mortality (22%, n = 12). Multivariate modeling demonstrated 3 variables independently associated with 1-year mortality: age older than 75 years (hazard ratio, 2.26; P = .005), aortic diameter greater than 6.5 cm (hazard ratio, 2.20; P = .007), and American Society of Anesthesiologists class 4 (hazard ratio, 1.85; P = .049). A baseline creatinine greater than 1.5 mg/dL (hazard ratio, 1.79; P = .05) and congestive heart failure (hazard ratio, 1.87; P = .08) were also retained in the final model. These 5 variables explained a large proportion of the risk of 1-year mortality (C statistic=0.74). Conclusions Age older than 75 years, aortic diameter greater than 6.5 cm, and American Society of Anesthesiologists class 4 are independently associated with 1-year mortality after thoracic endovascular aortic repair. These clinical characteristics may help risk-stratify patients undergoing thoracic endovascular aortic repair and identify those unlikely to derive a long-term survival benefit from the procedure.
OSHA regulations and medical practice

Abstract This article explains OSHA regulations regarding occupational exposure to blood-borne pathogens and the impact that these regulations have on the primary care obstetrician gynecologist.
Characterization of Realizable Space Complexities

This is a complete exposition of a tight version of a fundamental theorem of computational complexity due to Levin: The inherent space complexity of any partial function is very accurately specifiable in a \Pi_1 way, and every such specification that is even \Sigma_2 does characterize the complexity of some partial function, even one that assumes only the values 0 and 1.
Wave-kinetic numerical approach to propagation of optical beams

A new method is proposed for calculating the propagation of optical beams in media with slowly (and possibly randomly) varying refractive indices. It utilizes the conservation of the Wigner distribution function in the Liouville approximation along the beam trajectories and discretizes this quantity into a number of four-dimensional Gaussians so that each one retains its Gaussian character along the trajectories. The irradiance is then obtained by analytical integration of wave-vector coordinates over a sum of Gaussians. Conditions are specified for the region of applicability.
Comparative anatomy of the facial motor nucleus in mammals, with an analysis of neuron numbers in primates

The facial motor nucleus (VII) contains motoneurons that innervate the facial muscles of expression. In this review, the comparative anatomy of this brainstem nucleus is examined. Several aspects of the anatomical organization of the VII appear to be common across mammals, such as the distribution of neuron types, general topography of muscle representation, and afferent connections from the midbrain and brainstem. Phylogenetic specializations are apparent in the proportion of neurons allocated to the representation of subsets of muscles and the degree of differentiation among subnuclei. These interspecific differences may be related to the elaboration of certain facial muscles in the context of socioecological adaptations such as whisking behavior, sound localization, vocalization, and facial expression. Furthermore, current evidence indicates that direct descending corticomotoneuron projections in the VII are present only in catarrhine primates, suggesting that this connectivity is an important substrate for the evolution of enhanced mobility and flexibility in facial expression. Data are also presented from a stereologic analysis of VII neuron numbers in 18 primate species and a scandentian. Using phylogenetic comparative statistics, it is shown that there is not a correlation between group size and VII neuron number (adjusted for medulla volume) among primates. Great apes and humans, however, display moderately more VII neurons that expected for their medulla size.
In vivo USPIO magnetic resonance imaging shows that minocycline mitigates macrophage recruitment to a peripheral nerve injury

Minocycline has proven anti-nociceptive effects, but the mechanism by which minocycline delays the development of allodynia and hyperalgesia after peripheral nerve injury remains unclear. Inflammatory cells, in particular macrophages, are critical components of the response to nerve injury. Using ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide-magnetic resonance imaging (USPIO-MRI) to monitor macrophage trafficking, the purpose of this project is to determine whether minocycline modulates macrophage trafficking to the site of nerve injury in vivo and, in turn, results in altered pain thresholds. Animal experiments were approved by Stanford IACUC. A model of neuropathic pain was created using the Spared Nerve Injury (SNI) model that involves ligation of the left sciatic nerve in the left thigh of adult Sprague–Dawley rats. Animals with SNI and uninjured animals were then injected with/without USPIOs (300 μmol/kg IV) and with/without minocycline (50 mg/kg IP). Bilateral sciatic nerves were scanned with a volume coil in a 7 T magnet 7 days after USPIO administration. Fluid-sensitive MR images were obtained, and ROIs were placed on bilateral sciatic nerves to quantify signal intensity. Pain behavior modulation by minocycline was measured using the Von Frey filament test. Sciatic nerves were ultimately harvested at day 7, fixed in 10% buffered formalin and stained for the presence of iron oxide-laden macrophages. Behavioral measurements confirmed the presence of allodynia in the neuropathic pain model while the uninjured and minocycline-treated injured group had significantly higher paw withdrawal thresholds (p < 0.011). Decreased MR signal is observed in the SNI group that received USPIOs (3.3+/−0.5%) compared to the minocycline-treated SNI group that received USPIOs (15.2+/−4.5%) and minocycline-treated group that did not receive USPIOs (41.2+/−2.3%) (p < 0.04). Histology of harvested sciatic nerve specimens confirmed the presence USPIOs at the nerve injury site in the SNI group without minocycline treatment. Animals with neuropathic pain in the left hindpaw show increased trafficking of USPIO-laden macrophages to the site of sciatic nerve injury. Minocycline to retards the migration of macrophages to the nerve injury site, which may partly explain its anti-nociceptive effects. USPIO-MRI is an effective in vivo imaging tool to study the role of macrophages in the development of neuropathic pain.
Replacing traditional live lectures with online learning modules: Effects on learning and student perceptions

Abstract Purpose The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of an interactive online learning module (OLM) to a traditional live lecture (TLL) format with regard to effects on short- and long-term student learning. Student perceptions toward this type of learning format were also assessed. Methods A traditional live lecture (TLL) taught in previous years was developed into an online learning module (OLM). Researchers assessed student perceptions as well as the effectiveness of this intervention compared to a traditional live lecture in an evidence-based medicine course. Results Students randomized to the OLM group performed better on the quiz compared with those in the TLL group (mean score 55% vs. 48%, respectively, p = 0.039); scores on final-exam questions pertaining to the same material were similar (mean score 84% vs. 87%, p = 0.40). Most respondents in the OLM group (86%) felt that online modules should continue to be used in the course to supplement live lectures, although most (56%) felt that they should not replace live lectures. Conclusions Given the effectiveness and positive student perceptions, faculty and course directors may consider using this type of technology in their courses, but a blended approach may be better received by students.
The Role of Biomarkers for Diagnosis of and Therapeutic Decisions Related to Invasive Aspergillosis in Children

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a feared opportunistic infection for many immuncompromised children resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Timely diagnosis based on traditional testing modalities and clinical evaluation has proven to be challenging. Assays designed to measure IA biomarkers such as galactomannan (GM) and beta-D-glucan (BG) represent a potential significant improvement in the ability to diagnose pediatric IA. However, as with any new diagnostic tool, clinicians need to be aware of the operating characteristics of these assays in order to apply them in the appropriate settings. Published adult and pediatric data regarding GM and BG testing are reviewed and guidance regarding the appropriate utility of these assays in children is offered.
Autoimmune hypothesis of acquired subglottic stenosis in premature infants.

Acquired subglottic stenosis is a devastating additional burden for nearly 4% of premature infants receiving neonatal intensive care. The duration of endotracheal intubation is considered the most important etiologic factor. Surprisingly, most premature infants do not acquire subglottic stenosis. Infants with similar clinical characteristics and care have varying laryngeal outcomes. We hypothesized an autoimmune mechanism to type-II collagen to explain the varying laryngeal outcomes of these infants. A retrospective study of premature infants of comparable birth weight, gestational age, and duration of endotracheal intubation was conducted. The eight control children, who did not manifest symptoms of airway obstruction, had longer durations of intubation than did the infants who developed subglottic stenosis. Three of five affected infants had serum antibodies to type-II collagen, in contrast to none of the control infants (P = .035). This finding warrants additional study, and might lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic measures for these patients.
Energy-Aware Scheduling of Real-Time Tasks in Wireless Networked Embedded Systems

Recent technological advances have opened up several distributed real-time applications involving battery-driven embedded devices with local processing and wireless communication capabilities. Energy management is the key issue in the design and operation of such systems. In this paper, we consider a single-hop networked real-time embedded system where each node supports both dynamic voltage scaling (DVS) and dynamic modulation scaling (DMS) power management techniques to tradeoff time for energy savings. In this model, we address the problem of scheduling periodic complex tasks where each task consists of several precedence constrained message passing sub-tasks. Our contributions towards this problem are twofold. First, we analyze the system level energy-time tradeoffs considering both the computation and communication workloads by defining a novel energy gain metric. We then present static (centralized) and dynamic (distributed) energy gain based slack allocation algorithms which reduce the total energy consumption, while guaranteeing the ready time, deadline and precedence constraints. We compare the performance of the proposed algorithms with several baseline algorithms through simulation studies. Our results show that the proposed algorithms perform significantly better than the baseline algorithms for the simulated conditions. Finally, we identify several interesting energy-aware research problems in the area of networked real-time embedded systems.
Rational combination of dual PI3K/mTOR blockade and Bcl-2/-xL inhibition in AML

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) continues to represent an area of critical unmet need with respect to new and effective targeted therapies. The Bcl-2 family of pro- and antiapoptotic proteins stands at the crossroads of cellular survival and death, and the expression of and interactions between these proteins determine tumor cell fate. Malignant cells, which are often primed for apoptosis, are particularly vulnerable to the simultaneous disruption of cooperative survival signaling pathways. Indeed, the single agent activity of agents such as mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors in AML has been modest. Much work in recent years has focused on strategies to enhance the therapeutic potential of the bona fide BH3-mimetic, ABT-737, which inhibits B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and Bcl-xL. Most of these strategies target Mcl-1, an antiapoptotic protein not inhibited by ABT-737. The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mTOR and Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathways are central to the growth, proliferation, and survival of AML cells, and there is much interest currently in pharmacologically interrupting these pathways. Dual inhibitors of PI3K and mTOR overcome some intrinsic disadvantages of rapamycin and its derivatives, which selectively inhibit mTOR. In this review, we discuss why combining dual PI3K/mTOR blockade with inhibition of Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL, by virtue of allowing coordinate inhibition of three mutually synergistic pathways in AML cells, may be a particularly attractive therapeutic strategy in AML, the success of which may be predicted for by basal Akt activation.
Pneumonitis of unclear etiology in the surgical intensive care unit leading to the demise of an elderly, immunocompromised woman

Multiple system organ failure, likely an expression of a dysregulated immune system, is a common cause of death in the surgical intensive care unit (ICU). While investigational modalities of therapy are on the horizon, current treatment primarily consists of supportive care. The case of an elderly woman who was admitted to the surgical ICU after a celiac axis-superior mesenteric artery bypass, is presented. Her course was complicated by Influenza-B pneumonitis, multiple system organ failure, and, ultimately, death. The course, pathophysiology, and therapeutic modalities involved in this syndrome are discussed. Additionally, the natural history of influenza infection is reviewed.
Selective blockade of lysophosphatidic acid LPA3 receptors reduces murine renal ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) released during ischemia has diverse physiological effects via its G protein-coupled receptors, LPA1, LPA2, and LPA3 (formerly Edg-2, -4, and -7). We tested the hypothes...
Neurogenic pruritus: an unrecognised problem? A retrospective case series of treatment by acupuncture.

Summary Intractable localised segmental pruritus without a rash has been reported over the years under various titles depending on the area of the body affected. Notalgia paraesthetica and brachioradial pruritus are the two terms used for what is believed to be a form of neuropathy. The clinical observations reported here suggest that other localised cases of pruritus exist that share common clinical features, and the term neurogenic pruritus is suggested to encompass these under one clinical condition. Acupuncture has been used to treat skin conditions, of which pruritus is one symptom. This retrospective study looked at the symptomatic relief of neurogenic pruritus in 16 patients using acupuncture. In 12 cases the affected dermatomes of the body were innervated by cervical spinal nerves, seven innervated by dorsal spinal nerves and four innervated by the lumbar spinal nerves. Seven patients had areas affected by two different regions of the spine. Restricted neck or back movements were noted in patients as were areas of paravertebral spasm or tenderness of the muscles. Total resolution of symptoms as judged by VAS occurred in 75% of patients. Relapse occurred in 37% of patients within 1-12 months following treatment. Acupuncture appeared to be effective in alleviating the distressing symptom of itching in patients presenting with neurogenic pruritus.
Iron Regulatory Proteins, Iron Responsive Elements and Iron Homeostasis

The discovery of iron regulatory proteins (IRPs) has provided a molecular framework from which to more fully understand the coordinate regulation of vertebrate iron metabolism. IRPs bind to iron responsive elements (IREs) in specific mRNAs and regulate their utilization. The targets of IRP action now appear to extend beyond proteins that function in the storage (ferritin) or cellular uptake (transferrin receptor) of iron to include those involved in other aspects of iron metabolism as well as in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. To date, it appears that IRPs modulate the utilization of six mammalian mRNAs. Current studies are aimed at defining the mechanisms responsible for the hierarchical regulation of these mRNAs by IRPs. In addition, much interest continues to focus on the signaling pathways through which IRP function is regulated. Multiple factors modulate the RNA binding activity of IRP1 and/or IRP2 including iron, nitric oxide, phosphorylation by protein kinase C, oxidative stress and hypoxia/reoxygenation. Because IRPs are key modulators of the uptake and metabolic fate of iron in cells, they are focal points for the modulation of cellular iron homeostasis in response to a variety of agents and circumstances.
The Effect of Nonuniform Chemistry on Interfacial Fracture Toughness

The adhesion of metallic-ceramic interfaces is generally ascribed to the mixture of several mechanisms, including chemical bonding, texture, strain transfer, and plasticity. This study examines the impact of alterations in chemical bonding along an interface on the nanometer scale on the interfacial fracture energy. Using a well-characterized system of W/SiO2, small areas of the interface were masked with polymer tubes to prohibit the area from adhering well to the W film. This showed that the interfacial fracture energy was proportional to the area of higher adhesion. This finding was then used to study the growth of a Ti interlayer used for adhesion promotion in a Pt/SiO2 system. Because the adhesion energy slowly grew from values near the Pt/SiO2 to values typical of Ti/SiO2, the growth mechanism for DC magnetron sputtering of thin film Ti on SiO2 was inferred to be island growth instead of layer-by-layer growth.
Analysis of a large number of independent transgenic rice plants produced by the biolistic method

Over 500 independent transgenic rice plants have been obtained by the biolistic method with an average transformation frequency of 9.7% for japonica variety Taipei 309. A tight selection procedure using 50 mg/l of hygromycin B successfully prevented the growth of nontransformed tissues. Analysis of the T0 transgenic rice plants revealed that more than 97% of the transgenic plants were morphologically normal and more than 80% were at least partially fertile. The hygr trait was inherited as a dominant trait in a Mendelian manner in 8 out of 11 transgenic events assayed. Thirty-seven out of fifty transgenic plants were estimated to contain no more than five copies of the transgenes. In six out of seven transformation events, unlinked, co-transformed genes co-segregated in the T1 generation. The hygr trait has been stably inherited to the T4 generation. No chimerical transgenic plant has been found in an intensive search. Novel phenomena observed in transgenic rice plants are also reported.
A unifying strain criterion for fracture of fibrous composite laminates

Fibrous composite materials, such as graphite/epoxy, are light, stiff, and strong. They have great potential for reducing weight in aircraft structures. However, for a realization of this potential, designers will have to know the fracture toughness of composite laminates in order to design damage tolerant structures. In connection with the development of an economical testing procedure, there is a great need for a single fracture toughness parameter which can be used to predict the stress-intensity factor (K(Q)) for all laminates of interest to the designer. Poe and Sova (1980) have derived a general fracture toughness parameter (Qc), which is a material constant. It defines the critical level of strains in the principal load-carryng plies. The present investigation is concerned with the calculation of values for the ratio of Qc and the ultimate tensile strain of the fibers. The obtained data indicate that this ratio is reasonably constant for layups which fail largely by self-similar crack extension.
The Fruits of Cultivation Analysis: A Reexamination of Some Effects of Television Watching

A set of items from the General Social Survey for 1975 and 1977 measuring alienation and fear of walking near one's home at night, which were claimed by Gerbner et al. (1978a) to be related to heavy television watching, are reanalyzed with simultaneous controls for age, sex, race, income, education, hours worked per week outside the home, church attendance, membership in voluntary associations, and population size. The effects of television watching on responses to these items which were claimed by Gerbner et al. are largely absent in this analysis. Items in the same data set used by Gerbner et al., but not included in their analysis are analyzed using the technique above, with results that fail to support the contention of Gerbner and his associates. The implications of these findings for a cultivation theory of television effects are discussed. Michael Hughes is Assistant Professor of Sociology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. The author wishes to thank Richard A. Peterson, Walter R. Gove, Cathleen Burnett, Ricky McCarty, Michael R. Wood, Jerome B. Price, and two anonymous reviewers for their comments on an earlier draft. Also helpful were conversations with Anthony Oberschall, G. Russell Carpenter, John Ryan, Lynn Ballew, and Christian D. Hughes, and research assistance provided by Eileen Covey and Timothy J. Carter. Public Opinion Quarterly ?) 1980 by The Trustees of Columbia University Published by Elsevier North-Holland, Inc. 0033-362X/80/0044-287/$1.75 This content downloaded from 157.55.39.110 on Sat, 24 Sep 2016 04:41:39 UTC All use subject to http://about.jstor.org/terms
Advocacy Coalitions Along the Domestic‐Foreign Frontier: Globalization and Canadian Climate Change Policy

With its emphasis on shared beliefs and the advocacy use of knowledge within policy subsystems, the advocacy coalition framework (ACF) is ideally suited to the study of environmental policy. Yet the ACF has generally been applied in a domestic context. This article argues that the twin phenomena of economic globalization and the internationalization of environmental affairs are blurring the distinction between some policy subsystems and the international arena. Thus, advocacy coalitions should be understood as operating increasingly along “the domestic-foreign frontier.” In the case of Canada's efforts to develop a coherent climate change policy, the boundaries between political levels have been blurred as local and provincial actors come to understand themselves as players in a global game. This dynamic is exacerbated by Canada's unique constitutional division of authority, which delegates significant autonomy to the provinces on natural resource and energy issues.
Two-Drug Antimicrobial Chemotherapy: A Mathematical Model and Experiments with Mycobacterium marinum

Multi-drug therapy is the standard-of-care treatment for tuberculosis. Despite this, virtually all studies of the pharmacodynamics (PD) of mycobacterial drugs employed for the design of treatment protocols are restricted to single agents. In this report, mathematical models and in vitro experiments with Mycobacterium marinum and five antimycobacterial drugs are used to quantitatively evaluate the pharmaco-, population and evolutionary dynamics of two-drug antimicrobial chemotherapy regimes. Time kill experiments with single and pairs of antibiotics are used to estimate the parameters and evaluate the fit of Hill-function-based PD models. While Hill functions provide excellent fits for the PD of each single antibiotic studied, rifampin, amikacin, clarithromycin, streptomycin and moxifloxacin, two-drug Hill functions with a unique interaction parameter cannot account for the PD of any of the 10 pairs of these drugs. If we assume two antibiotic-concentration dependent functions for the interaction parameter, one for sub-MIC and one for supra-MIC drug concentrations, the modified biphasic Hill function provides a reasonably good fit for the PD of all 10 pairs of antibiotics studied. Monte Carlo simulations of antibiotic treatment based on the experimentally-determined PD functions are used to evaluate the potential microbiological efficacy (rate of clearance) and evolutionary consequences (likelihood of generating multi-drug resistance) of these different drug combinations as well as their sensitivity to different forms of non-adherence to therapy. These two-drug treatment simulations predict varying outcomes for the different pairs of antibiotics with respect to the aforementioned measures of efficacy. In summary, Hill functions with biphasic drug-drug interaction terms provide accurate analogs for the PD of pairs of antibiotics and M. marinum. The models, experimental protocols and computer simulations used in this study can be applied to evaluate the potential microbiological and evolutionary efficacy of two-drug therapy for any bactericidal antibiotics and bacteria that can be cultured in vitro.
Stimulation of MAP kinase pathways after maternal IL-1β exposure induces fetal lung fluid absorption in guinea pigs

We tested the hypothesis that maternal interleukin-1β (IL-1β) pretreatment and induction of fetal cortisol synthesis activates MAP kinases and thereby affects lung fluid absorption in preterm guinea pigs. IL-1β was administered subcutaneously daily to timed-pregnant guinea pigs for three days. Fetuses were obtained by abdominal hysterotomy and instilled with isosmolar 5% albumin into the lungs and lung fluid movement was measured over 1 h by mass balance. MAP kinase expression was measured by western blot. Lung fluid absorption was induced at 61 days (D) gestation and stimulated at 68D gestation by IL-1β. Maternal IL-1β pretreatment upregulated ERK and upstream MEK expression at both 61 and 68D gestation, albeit being much more pronounced at 61D gestation. U0126 instillation completely blocked IL-1β-induced lung fluid absorption as well as IL-1β-induced/stimulated ERK expression. Cortisol synthesis inhibition by metyrapone attenuated ERK expression and lung fluid absorption in IL-1β-pretreated fetal lungs. JNK expression after maternal IL-1β pretreatment remained unaffected at either gestation age. These data implicate the ERK MAP kinase pathway as being important for IL-1β induction/stimulation of lung fluid absorption in fetal guinea pigs.