cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Toddler naps in child care: associations with demographics and developmental outcomes.

Abstract Objectives The objectives were to characterize the rate, duration, and factors associated with napping in a large, nationally representative sample of toddlers attending child care. Design We analyzed a subset of data from the nationally representative Early Childhood Longitudinal Study—Birth Cohort, including parent report, caregiver report, and observational measures. Participants Data were limited to the 3050 participants reporting that their 2-year-old routinely spent greater than 1 hour per week in nonparental child care. Measurements Interviews were completed to measure child care type (relative, nonrelative, center-based), demographics, bedtime characteristics (eg, presence of a bedtime routine, assistance needed to fall asleep), and naptime. The Bayley Scales of Infant Development—Research Edition was used to measure child outcomes. Results Napping was reported to occur in 91% of 2-year-olds, with most naps reported to last 2 hours. Significant racial and ethnic differences were found in nap duration, with black children napping longer and Latino children napping shorter than white children, controlling for socioeconomic status and sex. Children cared for by relatives had longer naps than those in nonrelative child care. There were no significant relationships between naps and child outcomes. Conclusions Results highlight racial and ethnic differences in daytime napping duration and interesting differences in nap duration in different child care settings. Child care providers may use these results to adopt appropriate expectations, policies, and practices for 2-year-old napping.
Regulation of sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium pump gene expression by hindlimb unweighting

Hindlimb unweighting (HU) causes upregulation of several muscle-specific genes responsible for the slow-to-fast transition in soleus skeletal muscle properties despite the profound muscle atrophy. ...
Case 2: Anemia in a Term Newborn With Facial Anomalies

A 2,280-g, term, female infant is born to a 26-year-old, gravida 3, para 2012 mother who received regular prenatal care. The pregnancy was complicated by fetal growth restriction. The mother’s blood type is A Rh negative, she is rubella immune, and she tests negative for human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B, and syphilis but positive for group B streptococcus. She presents in labor with spontaneous rupture of membranes for 13 hours and has meconium-stained amniotic fluid. The mother receives intrapartum prophylaxis with 2 doses of intravenous penicillin. The labor is augmented with oxytocin. The infant is delivered by normal spontaneous vaginal delivery. Apgar scores are 8 and 8 at 1 and 5 minutes, respectively. Soon after delivery, the infant is noted to be pale and to have intermittent tachypnea. Clinical examination reveals a term female infant who has tachypnea and is severely growth restricted. Her growth parameters are as follows: weight, 2,280 kg (below the third percentile); length, 45 cm (below the third percentile); and head circumference, 30 cm (below the third percentile). She is also noted to have exophthalmos with downward slanting palpebral fissures, low-set ears, micrognathia with cleft palate and bifid uvula, a grade 2 to 3/6 systolic murmur at the upper left sternal border and normal femoral pulses, small fifth digits of hands, and partial syndactyly of the second and third toes. The rest of the examination findings are normal. Initial pulse oximetry measurement on the right hand reveals 68% saturation in room air. The infant is transferred to the neonatal …
Lifetime and Spectrally Resolved Characterization of the Photodynamics of Single Fluorophores in Solution Using the Anti-Brownian Electrokinetic Trap

We report simultaneous determination of fluorescence intensity, lifetime, and emission spectrum over time scales on the order of seconds for single molecules in solution, using the anti-Brownian electrokinetic trap. We demonstrate the technique with trapped single fluorophores of Atto647N and Alexa647. Three emission states with distinct intensities, lifetimes, and emission peaks are found in the case of Atto647N. Transitions between states happen occasionally. We characterize the three states and quantify the transition probabilities between states using concurrent intensity, lifetime, and spectrum data. Alexa647, on the other hand, showed little dynamics. These results represent a significant advance in the ability to identify and characterize different dynamical states of single molecules in aqueous solution with high precision and millisecond time resolution.
Mechanical Properties of Rapidly Solidified Nickel-Base Superalloys and Intermetallics

The improvements in the mechanical properties of nickel-base alloys that have been made possible by rapid solidification processing are reviewed. The results of processing by powder metallurgy, laser melting, low pressure plasma deposition and spray forming are examined. In general, the increased homogeneity obtained by rapid solidification allows for increased alloying and improved hot workability. The refined grain size improves the low and intermediate temperature strength, but leads to lower strengths at high temperature. For the high temperature applications, post solidification grain growth is required, as for example the directional recrystallization of powder metallurgy preforms. The development of a novel means of producing a fine dispersion from amorphous alloy precursors and the recent work attempting to improve the ductility of the intermetallic phases NiAl and Ni3Al are also described.
Selective Bacteriostatic Action of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and of “Dreft.”

The bacteriostatic action of various soaps has undergone a considerable amount of study by many investigators. Recently, a somewhat related class of substances, the sodium alkyl sulfates, has been synthesized. These substances have also been made use of as detergents in such preparations as “Dreft,” “Drene” and other commercial products.The alkyl sulfates are half-esters of sulfuric acid. In this respect they differ from soaps which are combinations of fatty acids and alkalis. In both cases, however, the alkyl chain probably determines its bactericidal effectiveness. Sodium lauryl sulfate is a sodium alkyl sulfate containing 12 carbon atoms.The similarity of these substances to soaps suggested the possibility that similar bacteriostatic action might be exhibited by them. Accordingly, sodium lauryl sulfate as such, and “Dreft” which contains a large amount of sodium lauryl sulfate were tested for their bacteriostatic action. Twenty-one strains of Gram positive bacteria, 20 strains of Gram negative bacteria...
Field evaluation of deet-treated mesh jacket against black flies (Simuliidae).

A cotton-polyester mesh jacket treated with technical N-N-diethylmetatoluamide (deet) was evaluated as a personal protective measure in the prevention of black fly bites. In addition, the jacket was evaluated as to skin irritability, and acceptability with respect to comfort and convenience after continual wear. The deet-impregnated mesh jacket offered significant protection from black flies as measured by statistical comparisons between the number of bites received by individuals wearing treated and non-treated jackets. Of the participants queried, 96.03% stated that the deet-treated jacket produced no skin irritability. With respect to comfort and convenience, a range of 21.9% to 83.2% acceptance was recorded for the jacket.
Optimal Management of Autoimmune Lymphoproliferative Syndrome in Children

Autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS) is a disorder of abnormal lymphocyte homeostasis, resulting from mutations in the Fas apoptotic pathway. Clinical manifestations include noninfectious and nonmalignant lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, and autoimmune pathology-most commonly, autoimmune cytopenias. Rarely, and in association with specific genetic mutations, patients with ALPS may go on to develop secondary lymphoid malignancies. Though ALPS is a rare disorder, it should be suspected and ruled out in children presenting with chronic and refractory multilineage cytopenias associated with nonmalignant lymphoproliferation. Revised diagnostic criteria and insights into disease biology have improved both diagnosis and treatment. Sirolimus and mycophenolate mofetil are the best-studied and most effective corticosteroid-sparing therapies for ALPS, and they should be considered first-line therapy for patients who need chronic treatment. This review highlights practical clinical considerations for diagnosis and management of ALPS.
Three new species of Calyptratae from Sichuan Province, China (Diptera: Muscoidea)

Three new species, Norellia megistomycta sp.nov., Limnophora emeishanica sp.nov.and L.oreosoacra sp.nov., belonging to Scathophagidae and Muscidae are described in the present paper. The type specimens are kept in the Institute of Plant Physiology Ecology, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.1 Norellia megistomycta Feng, sp. nov.(Fig.1) Male: Body length 7.0 mm, wings length 7.0 mm. This new species belongs to Norellia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 of Scathophaginae. It is similar to N.triangula Sun, 1992, but can be distinguished from the latter by the following characters: Femora with black streak on dorsal surface with clear limits; arista pubescent; inner margin of lateral lobe of 5th sternite with 2-3 rows of small and short spines on whole length; thorax without pollen. Female: Unknown. Holotype ♂, Mt.Erlangshan (Yakou, 3000 m; 29°52′N, 102°10′E), Sichuan Province, China. 1984-07-02, collected by Feng Yan.2 Limnophora emeishanica Feng, sp.nov.(Fig.2) Male: Body length 5.0 mm. This new species belongs to Limnophorini of Coenosiinae. It is similar to L.fallax Stein, 1920, but can be distinguished from the latter by the following characters: Postintraalar bristle 1; mid tibia with p 2; basal part of scutellum without a cross black band; both of lateral margins of 5th sternite inward concaved; distal part of surstyli of male backward obliquely in lateral view. Female: Unknown. Holotype ♂, Mt.Emeishan(Wanfoding, 3099 m; 29°59′N, 103°42′E), Sichuan Province, China. 1984-06-22, collected by Feng Yan.3 Limnophora oreosoacra Feng, sp.nov.(Fig.3) Male: Body length 5.0 mm. This new species belongs to Limnophorini of Coenosiinae. It is similar to L.nigra Xue, 1984, but can be distinguished from the latter by the following characters: Fifth tergite without black spot; distal part of fore tibia with a pv seta largely; distal part of surstyli of male backward carved in lateral view; distal part of cerci of male sharpened in lateral view. Female: Unknown. Holotype♂, Mt.Emeishan (Wanfoding, 3099 m; 29°59′N, 103°42′E), Sichuan Province, China. 1984-06-22, collected by Feng Yan.
Research on epidemiological characteristics of imported dengue fever in Guangzhou,2006-2010 and its control strategy

Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of imported dengue fever in Guangzhou,2006-2010,and discuss the control strategy. Methods The data of imported dengue fever cases were collected from China Information System for Diseases Control and Prevention, case questionnaires and investigation reports were used to design and establish a database to analyze the epidemiological characteristics by descriptive study. Results Total 66 (7.21%) imported cases in 2006(1.29%,10/775),2007(44.44%,16/36),2008(50.00%,3/6),2009(83.33%,15/18), and 2010(27.16%,22/81) were reportedin Guangzhou, including 49(74.24%) males and 17(25.76%) females, mainly of worker from commercial service (39.40%,26/66) and aged from 20-50 years old(83.33%,55/66),peaked from August to November (69.70%,46/66). Asia (89.39%,59/66), Africa (6.06%,4/66), Latin America (3.03%,2/66), and Oceania (1.52%) were the source continents, with Southeast Asia (74.24%,49/66) of the biggest source area. Cases whose disease onset time before arrived Guangzhou(69.70%,46/66) were more than cases whose disease onset time after arrived Guangzhou (30.30%,20/66). Conclusion Imported dengue fever in Guangzhou constituted a large proportion in total reported cases, therefore, the discovery and report capacity should be strengthened, mainly on intensified entry quarantine and diagnosis and report timely from medical institutions.
Mutagenic activation of N-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene in the Salmonella test system: the role of deacetylation by liver and kidney fractions from mouse and rat.

The Ames bacterial mutagenesis system was used to evaluate the role of the deacetylase and sulfotransferase in the mutagenic activation of N-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene. The mutagenicity of N-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene mediated by liver or kidney microsomes was independent of treatment of mice or rats with microsomal enzyme inducers and, at equivalent protein concentrations, was the same whether mouse liver or mouse kidney microsomes were used. N-Hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene mutagenesis with mouse and rat liver or kidney microsomes was completely inhibited by 0.1 mM paraoxon and partially inhibited by addition of 39-phosphoadenosine 59-phosphosulfate when rat liver 9000 x g supernatant was used. Although the rates of deacetylation of 2-acetylaminofluorene and N-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene in vitro were lower in kidney microsomes than in liver microsomes of either the mouse or the rat, both reactions were also completely inhibited by 0.1 mM paraoxon. The addition of ascorbic acid (10 mM) approximately doubled the mutagenicity of N-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene in the presence of mouse kidney microsomes but had no effect on the mutagenicity of N-hydroxy-2-aminofluorene in the absence of microsomal protein. Butylated hydroxytoluene (10 mM) had very little or no effect, in either the absence or presence of 10 mM ascorbic acid, on the mutagenicity of N-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene with liver or kidney microsomes. Our data indicate that deacetylation is the most important step in the mutagenic activation of N-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene by mouse and rat liver and kidney fractions and that the arylnitrenium ion, rather than the nitroxyl free radical, is the electrophilic species interacting with the bacterial DNA, resulting in the frameshift mutation.
Lung function after prolonged lung preservation.

Our previous study revealed significant improvement in lung preservation with a new solution, the UCLA formula, which contains verapamil and is based on a glucose-insulin-potassium solution. In this study, we extended the preservation time up to 12 hours and, using various parameters, compared lung function after 12 hours’ preservation with that after 6 hours’ preservation. The left lung of 15 dogs was perfused with 300 ml of the UCLA formula (4° C) and preserved for 6 hours in eight dogs (group A) and for 12 hours in the other seven dogs (group B). The preserved left lung was then autotransplanted and pulmonary function was evaluated during the following 2 weeks. The oxygen tension was monitored at 2 and 12 hours postoperatively, then daily for 1 week, and on the fourteenth postoperative day. The right pulmonary artery was temporarily occluded to assess the function of the preserved left lung alone. Oxygen tension in group A was maintained within the normal range. By contrast, in group B transient deterioration in oxygen tension was observed from the third to the fourth postoperative day (p
Modeling the transmission of Perkinsus marinus in the Eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica

Abstract Dermo disease caused by the protistan Perkinsus marinus in Eastern oysters Crassotrea virginica is an important source of mortality impacting oyster population dynamics resulting in substantial losses in fisheries and aquaculture. The rapid transmission and spread of the disease minimized the importance of transmission models and past models (proliferation-based models) assumed simple density-dependent transmission or rapid infection post-settlement. This approach is a good approximation only for low population densities. A transmission model was developed for P. marinus in Eastern oysters that accounts for the seasonal change in disease dynamics and density-dependent foraging (of suspended particles) interference among hosts. The model, verified and evaluated against field observations, incorporates parasite release to the water column from live and dead individuals, parasite consumption by living oysters, the diffusion of parasites in the water, body burden-based dose-dependent transmission, recruitment, and disease-caused mortality. The model returns a basic reproduction number R 0 for Dermo much greater than unity ( R 0 = 90) in accordance with the current persistence and pandemic nature of this disease in oysters. No population density is obtained that is low enough to suppress R 0 below 1 (i.e. disease extinction). R 0 is also estimated for high oyster densities (>300 individuals m −2 ) and particularly for relatively large oysters (∼90 mm), today rare but once common before generalized overfishing occurred on healthy oyster reefs. In this scenario, R 0 drops below 1, indicating that high oyster density can limit disease invasion through foraging interference and depletion of parasites in the water column. High intensity recruitment events allow the oyster population to attain such densities and limit the development of epizootics. These results provide insight into the transition from past populations, where Dermo is inferred to have been limited in its impact, to the current persistent and pandemic nature of this disease. Further coupling of this model into metapopulation and hydrodynamic models could be a promising tool to support management decision-making for bivalve populations impacted by Dermo disease.
Rural Long Term Care Nurses’ Knowledge of Palliative Care

Purpose: Regardless of the location, rural nurses care for patients and their families across the trajectory of an illness and into death in long term care facilities. The purpose of this study was to examine rural nurses' knowledge of palliative care for end of life patients in long term care facilities. Method: A quantitative descriptive correlational design was utilized with a convenience sample of nurses (registered nurses and licensed practical nurses) in three rural long term care facilities in south-central Kentucky. Demographical data was utilized to describe the study subjects, and the Palliative Care Knowledge Test was utilized to measure the rural nurses' knowledge of palliative care. Descriptive statistics and Cross-tabs with a Chi-square test for independence were used for analysis . Findings: The rural nurses lacked knowledge of palliative care on the Palliative Care Knowledge Test. Although the study sample scored below 50%, registered nurses were more knowledgeable than licensed practical nurses on many of the items on the Palliative Care Knowledge Test. This study supports that the total years practiced in long term care does not affect the knowledge on the Palliative Care Knowledge Test. Registered nurses were more knowledgeable than licensed practical nurses on some items of the Palliative Care Knowledge Test. Conclusion: Nurses cannot practice what they do not know. Nurses who lack knowledge about the philosophy and principles of palliative care may lower the quality of end of life care for patients in long term care facilities. An evaluation of the knowledge level of nurses for palliative care is an important first step in instituting an educational intervention. Keywords : rural nurses, palliative care knowledge, and Palliative Care Knowledge Test DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.14574/ojrnhc.v16i2.409
Sensor Data and Information Fusion to Construct Digital-twins Virtual Machine Tools for Cyber-physical Manufacturing

Abstract This paper presents sensor data integration and information fusion to build “digital-twins” virtual machine tools for cyber-physical manufacturing. Virtual machine tools are useful for simulating machine tools’ capabilities in a safe and cost-effective way, but it is challenging to accurately emulate the behavior of the physical tools. When a physical machine tool breaks down or malfunctions, engineers can always go back to check the digital traces of the “digital-twins” virtual machine for diagnosis and prognosis. This paper presents an integration of manufacturing data and sensory data into developing “digital-twins” virtual machine tools to improve their accountability and capabilities for cyber-physical manufacturing. The sensory data are used to extract the machining characteristics profiles of a digital-twins machine tool, with which the tool can better reflect the actual status of its physical counterpart in its various applications. In this paper, techniques are discussed for deploying sensors to capture machine-specific features, and analytical techniques of data and information fusion are presented for modeling and developing “digital-twins” virtual machine tools. Example of developing the digital-twins of a 3-axis vertical milling machine is presented to demonstrate the concept of modeling and building a digital-twins virtual machine tool for cyber-physical manufacturing. The presented technique can be used as a building block for cyber-physic manufacturing development.
Using Data to Support Teaching and Learning.

This chapter discusses principles that support using data about teaching and learning and offers several strategies particularly well suited for use by institutional researchers at small colleges in helping faculty, staff, and administrators use data on student learning for improvement.
Marching to the beat of the drum: the impact of the pace of life in US cities on entrepreneurial work effort

Founders face a variety of challenges while working to establish a viable start-up. In order to successfully overcome the many pressures that they face, founders must make difficult choices about how to allocate their time and how much effort to exert in their ventures. These founders are also embedded in a broader social context, and their efforts are influenced by external conditions. In this study, we examine one particular social condition—pace of life—and its relationship on entrepreneurial work effort. We argue that the pace of life in the region where founders launch and run their ventures affects their work effort over and above other individual- and firm-level characteristics. We also argue that this direct relationship can strengthen or weaken depending on founding team size or entrepreneurial experience. Our longitudinal analyses of nearly 2600 US new ventures from 2004 to 2011 support our arguments. Our work advances prior research on the determinants of entrepreneurial work effort, enhances the literature on social norms and entrepreneurial action, and provides additional insights into the multilevel influences of entrepreneurial activity. While entrepreneurs are commonly perceived as non-conformists who march to the beat of their own drum, we find evidence suggesting that regional pace of life actually sets the tempo for business owners and influences the amount of effort that they allocate to their ventures.
Effect of feeding tall fescue seed infected by endophytic fungus (Acremonium coenophialum ) on reproductive performance in male rats.

Abstract An experiment was conducted to determine the effect of feeding tall fescue seed infected by an endophytic fungus Acremonium coenophialum on the reproductive performance of male rats. Thirty 70-day-old rats were randomly allocated to four treatments: (I) fed 50% rat chow and 50% healthy fescue seed ad libitum (control; N=9; (II) same as I but restricted to the daily feed intake of III (N=7; (III) 50% fungal-infected fescue seed and 50% chow (N=7); and (IV) a mixture of 50% laboratory chow, 25% healthy fescue seed and 25% fungal-infected fescue seed (N=7). The rats were fed these diets for 42 days. During this time, body weights were taken weekly and feed intake was taken daily. At the end of the experiment, the rats were sacrificed and the testes and epididymides were excised and measured. Sperm parameters were assessed (concentration, percentage of motility and progressive motility) at the site of the cauda epididymis; the testes were homogenized and assessed for daily sperm production potential (DSP). Concentrations of spermatozoa (× 106) among the various treatments were 645.6, 486.5, 387.4 and 457.1; motility and progressive motility measurements ranged from 48 to 50% and 2.3 to 2.4 (0–4), respectively. DSP values (per gram) and testicular weight were reduced (P
Design and Analysis of the Rotatable Balance-arm System in Crane

The merits and demerits of the movable balance-weight schemes in the existing tower crane are summarized and analyzed. The new design of rotatable balance-arm, latticed crane head, platform and rotational upper support is put forward for top of crane SXD50. The rotatable balance-arm is composed of two parallel truss structures, platform, luffing mechanism and balance-weight. The balance-arm can be pulled to rotate around the rotational upper support by luffing mechanism under amplitude control system. The forward torque is equaled to the backward torque from the balance-arm to realize the moment equilibrium of crane body during working. The luffing mechanism of balance-arm on the platform can be as a part of balanceweight. The finite element model of balance-arm and crane head is built and the calculated results prove the rotatable balancearm system reliable and the structure strength satisfies the requirement of design.
Music education and the well-rounded education provision of the Every Student Succeeds Act: A critical policy analysis

Critical approaches to policy analysis, although common in general education, are rare in arts education literature. By adopting critical approaches, researchers can produce scholarship that will b...
In search of membrane-catalyst materials for oxidative coupling of methane: Performance and phase stability studies of gadolinium-doped barium cerate and the impact of Zr doping

Abstract Oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) is a promising technology for the direct conversion of methane to ethylene and ethane (C2). This process is yet to be commercialized due its poor yield reflected in the formation of undesired products such as CO and CO2 (COx) as methane conversion increases, particularly in conventional packed bed reactors (PBRs). It has been argued that by applying O2− conducting membrane reactors that distribute the oxygen feed, the selectivity to the C2 products can be increased. A practical design for these membrane reactors would include combining a selective catalyst, preferably O2− conducting, with an O2− conducting membrane. In this work, we studied an O2− conducting material, gadolinium-doped barium cerate (BaCe0.8Gd0.2O3-δ or BCG), to evaluate its potential applicability as a catalyst and membrane in OCM membrane reactors. From PBR tests, we found that this material was active for OCM, and achieved a maximum C2+ yield of ∼14% at 1023 K. Furthermore, at low oxygen partial pressures, a C2+ selectivity of ∼90% was obtained at methane conversions of ∼3%. Although the C2+ yield from this material was stable over 48 h on stream at high methane conversions, X-ray diffraction data showed that the BCG perovskite phase, which is required for its conductive (membrane) properties, decomposes into BaCO3, CeO2 and Gd2O3 like phases, due to reactions with CO2. We showed that doping BCG with Zr was effective at suppressing the phase instability in OCM without significantly affecting the C2+ yields.
Endogenously Determined Variants as Precursors of Substrates for Natural Selection

The emergence of living individuals would seem to have been synonymous with what is usually referred to as the origin of life. Experiments in the formation of protoorganisms suggest, however, that individuality can be identified for an even earlier molecular stage in immediate precursors of those first organisms. Those precursors, which avidly assemble to “laboratory protocells” in the presence of water, are known as proteinoids, or are indexed in Chemical Abstracts as thermal proteins.
An Analytic Platform for the Rapid and Reproducible Annotation of Ventilator Waveform Data

Abstract Algorithmic classifiers are crucial components of clinical decision support (CDS) systems needed to advance healthcare delivery. Robust CDS systems must be derived and validated via creation of multi-reviewer adjudicated gold standard datasets. Manual annotation of physiologic data such as mechanical ventilator waveform data (VWD) can be time-consuming, and lacks methodological consistency in dataset development. To address these issues, we have created a system for annotating and adjudicating VWD called the Annotation PipeLine (APL) to optimize VWD annotation by expert reviewers. APL combines visual assessment of waveform characteristics with metadata display, enabling inclusion of quantitative thresholds into annotation decisions by reviewers. APL also includes specific features for resolving multi-reviewer disagreements and generating gold standard data sets. APL’s unique combination of methods and open source framework may accelerate the creation of CDS algorithms for ventilator management, and may serve as a model for future research into physiologic waveform annotation systems.
Becoming Inquirers: A Review of Research on Inquiry Methods in Literacy Preservice Teacher Preparation.

Inquiry models of teaching and learning have a long history in education. With a focus on contemporary (2000–2018) empirical research, this systematic review of literature focuses on the question: ...
Cannabinoid receptor subtype influence on neuritogenesis in human SH-SY5Y cells.

Abstract Human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells stably expressing exogenous CB1 (CB1XS) or CB2 (CB2XS) receptors were developed to investigate endocannabinoid signaling in the extension of neuronal projections. Expression of cannabinoid receptors did not alter proliferation rate, viability, or apoptosis relative to parental SH-SY5Y. Transcripts for endogenous cannabinoid system enzymes (diacylglycerol lipase, monoacylglycerol lipase, α/β-hydrolase domain containing proteins 6 and 12, N-acyl phosphatidylethanolamine-phospholipase D, and fatty acid amide hydrolase) were not altered by CB1 or CB2 expression. Endocannabinoid ligands 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and anandamide were quantitated in SH-SY5Y cells, and diacylglycerol lipase inhibitor tetrahydrolipstatin decreased 2-AG abundance by 90% but did not alter anandamide abundance. M3 muscarinic agonist oxotremorine M, and inhibitors of monoacylglycerol lipase and α/β hydrolase domain containing proteins 6 &12 increased 2-AG abundance. CB1 receptor expression increased lengths of short ( 30 μm) projections, and this effect was significantly reduced by tetrahydrolipstatin, indicative of stimulation by endogenously produced 2-AG. Pertussis toxin, Gβγ inhibitor gallein, and β-arrestin inhibitor barbadin did not significantly alter long projection length in CB1XS, but significantly reduced short projections, with gallein having the greatest inhibition. The rho kinase inhibitor Y27632 increased CB1 receptor-mediated long projection extension, indicative of actin cytoskeleton involvement. CB1 receptor expression increased GAP43 and ST8SIA2 mRNA and decreased ITGA1 mRNA, whereas CB2 receptor expression increased NCAM and SYT mRNA. We propose that basal endogenous production of 2-AG provides autocrine stimulation of CB1 receptor signaling through Gi/o, Gβγ, and β-arrestin mechanisms to promote neuritogenesis, and rho kinase influences process extension.
Prediction Models in Degenerative Spine Surgery: A Systematic Review.

Study Design:Systematic review.Objectives:To review the existing literature of prediction models in degenerative spinal surgery.Methods:Review of PubMed/Medline and Embase databases was conducted t...
Computationally Efficient Battery Model for Microgrid Applications using the Chebyshev Spectral Method

Abstract Model-based optimization and control are often employed to regulate batteries; however, such modeling tools are required to predict battery status fast and accurately. In this work, we present two modeling frameworks that help significantly decrease computational time while modeling battery physics accurately. These frameworks employ the Chebyshev spectral method for discretization of the governing equations, while integration of the resulting discretized system is implemented using either a segregated or a differential-algebraic equation formulation. The segregated formulation relies on linearized reaction rate kinetics, which enables easy coupling with the governing equations. Our choice of the Chebyshev spectral method is due to its exponential convergence and use of few discretization nodes, compared to conventional methods, such as finite difference method and finite element method. An average of about 98% reduction in computational time for the differential-algebraic equation framework was gained, while for the segregated algorithm, on average, a 51% reduction in computational time relative to the finite element method reference was realized. For all of these frameworks, the Chebyshev spectral method results were on the average within 0.07% - 0.39% of the high-fidelity finite element method reference.
Cecal perforation secondary to fungal necrotizing enterocolitis in a premature neonate.

Abstract Introduction Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) remains one of the most critical gastrointestinal comorbidities associated with neonatal prematurity and low birth weight. Despite extensive research and innovations for successful management, NEC remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in premature infants. NEC is commonly appreciated at the level of the small bowel, but in rare instances, it is experienced at the colon. While colonic perforation is rare, cecal perforation, specifically, is seldom reported. Case report We report the successful surgical intervention of a preterm African-American infant born at 24-weeks' gestation found to have a cecal perforation due to fungal necrotizing enterocolitis. Discussion Perforation is a major cause of morbidity in necrotizing enterocolitis, and even with extensive research in the management of necrotizing enterocolitis, mortality rates have remained unchanged; the treatment option with the most advantageous outcomes is still uncertain. Conclusion To our knowledge, there are few reported cases of cecal perforation due to NEC. The pathologic report of our colonic specimen demonstrated mucosal invasion with Candida Albicans. This case report is noteworthy due to the unusual location of bowel perforation, fungal sepsis, and successful surgical outcome that is not commonly seen in neonates with intestinal candidiasis. Cecal perforation is rare in necrotizing enterocolitis but should not rule out the pathology.
5.8 X-Ray Calorimeters

X-ray calorimeter instruments for astrophysics have seen rapid development since they were invented in 1984. The prime instrument on all currently planned X-ray spectroscopic observatories is based on calorimeter technology. This relatively simple detection concept that senses the energy of an incident photon by measuring the temperature rise of an absorber material at very low temperatures, can form the basis of a very high performance, non-dispersive spectrometer. State-of-the-art calorimeter instruments have resolving powers of over 3000, large simultaneous band-passes, and near unit efficiency. This coupled with the intrinsic imaging capability of a pixilated x-ray calorimeter array, allows true spectral-spatial instruments to be constructed. In this chapter I briefly review the detection scheme, the state-of-the-art in X-ray calorimeter instruments and the future outlook for this technology.
Functional Influence of Gene Transfer of Recombinant Nitric Oxide Synthase to Cardiovascular System

Publisher Summary Nitric oxide (NO) exerts critical and diverse functions in the cardiovascular system. An impaired NO production and/or function contributes to the pathophysiology of a variety of cardiovascular diseases. Although NO therapy is desirable, the short half-life of NO, and the tolerance and side effects of its donors limit the effectiveness of their clinical applications. Since 1996, recombinant NO synthase (NOS) gene transfer has been successfully carried out both ex vivo and in vivo in various animal models of cardiovascular disease and human blood vessels with encouraging results. This chapter provides an overview of the concept and principles of NOS gene therapy for a number of cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis and thrombosis, restenosis, cerebral vasospasm, transplant vasculopathy, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, impotency, and delayed wound healing. In addition, the limitations of the currently available vectors and technical means of NOS gene delivery to the cardiovascular system are discussed.
A Tale of Two Systems: Conflict, Law and the Development of Water Allocation in Two Common Law Jurisdictions

This paper examines how the law governing water has evolved in the United States and Australia. The evolution of water law in these jurisdictions demonstrates that the ‘scientific modernism’ that prioritises economics and hydrology as the pivots around which water institutions are designed may be an incomplete model. From the history we recount, we suggest that, ranking equally with these considerations in shaping water law and policy, is the broader framework of laws and institutions, and legal culture within a society. These factors shape the types of solutions to conflicts in a society and determine, to a substantial degree, the solutions to water conflicts that become law, which then in part determine future legal solutions. This observation is of more than theoretical importance. Towards the end of this paper we consider the latest water modernist experiment, the Australian Water Act. We suggest that closer attention to social factors and legal traditions would have resulted in a more effective law. We believe this holds important lessons for water policy generally.
Theory Versus Reality: the Partnership Model of Marriage in Family and Income Tax Law

This Article explores the gap between theory and reality in the context of family and tax law. Specifically, it explores the effects inequality of power and lack of complete unity of interest have on intrafamily allocations of resources and the significance of those allocations for tax purposes. Part I surveys the partnership model of marriage and some proposals in the family law area to modify or abandon it. Part II focuses on actual intrahousehold allocations of resources and the lack of total unity of interest. Part III examines the current tax treatment of marriage and the family and the tax effects of some of the family law proposals. Part IV explores what the tax treatment of the family might look like if it recognized both the inequality of intrahousehold resource allocations and the lack of complete unity of interests.
The Potential Of Protein-Detecting MicroArrays For Clinical Diagnostics

Publisher Summary Diseases elicit many combinations of slight, but significant changes in protein expression and activity. Therefore, measuring a combination of biomarkers (hereafter referred to as a diagnostic signature) should be more effective than a single biomarker. Signature-discovery tools (such as DNA-diagnostic signatures and protein-diagnostic signatures) and signature-detecting platforms in the clinic are also discussed in this chapter. Protein-detecting microarrays have great clinical diagnostic potential for monitoring the level and molecular state of native proteins in readily accessible body fluids such as serum, urine, and saliva. Mass-spectrometry-based signature-discovery tools will play an extensive role in identifying the set of useful biomarkers for the development of disease-specific protein-detecting arrays. The ideal protein microarray will be capable of detecting all proteins, isoforms, and post-translationally modified proteins essential to diagnose disease. Even simple protein profiles may consist of hundreds to thousands of proteins. The chapter hypothesizes that some proteins are more informative within complex signatures. Antibody microarrays for research purposes have been developed, but ideally, arrays will consist of synthetic capture agents that are more stable and amenable to high-throughput isolation and production. The next hurdle will be the isolation of high-specificity and affinity ligands for clinically relevant proteins and any significant post-translational states and isoforms. To increase the arsenal of diagnostic assays available in the clinic, two main research approaches are required. First, clinically useful diagnostic signatures for specific diseases should be identified and second, clinically useful platforms must be designed to measure these signatures. Recent advances in protein ligands isolation and recent applications of protein-detecting microarrays are also presented in this chapter.
RADIATION-RESISTANT, PIGMENTED COCCUS ISOLATED FROM HADDOCK TISSUE

Davis, Norman S. (Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge), Gerald J. Silverman, and Edmund B. Masurovsky. Radiation-resistant, pigmented coccus isolated from haddock tissue. J. Bacteriol. 86: 294–298. 1963.—An orange-brown, catalase-positive coccus was isolated from irradiated haddock. The new coccus was found to consist of rough and smooth strains as well as strains possessing appreciably less pigment. The smooth strain (248) was more radioresistant to gamma radiation than the rough strain, and at higher radiation doses was of comparable resistance to Micrococcus radiodurans . The less-pigmented strain was as radio-resistant as its parent strain (248). Although morphologically similar to other, but less-resistant, micrococci, the coccus differed by growing slowly on solid media, and was unable to grow in 7% salt. It was distinguished from M. radiodurans by being smaller in size and in being capable of reducing nitrate to nitrite and hydrolyzing gelatin. Images
Electromagnetic jets from stars and black holes

We present analytic force-free solutions modeling rotating stars and black holes immersed in the magnetic field of a thin disk that terminates at an inner radius. The solutions are exact in flat spacetime and approximate in Kerr spacetime. The compact object produces a conical jet whose properties carry information about its nature. For example, the jet from a star is surrounded by a current sheet, while that of a black hole is smooth. We compute an effective resistance in each case and compare to the canonical values used in circuit models of energy extraction. These solutions illustrate all of the basic features of the Blandford-Znajek process for energy extraction and jet formation in a clean setting.
Assessment of the risk of bleeding from esophageal varices by continuous monitoring of portal pressure

Portal pressure was monitored by means of an indwelling hepatic vein balloon catheter in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis and bleeding varices to determine the safety and feasibility of the technique and its value in predicting recurrence of bleeding. Forty patients were enrolled. Central venous access could not be achieved in 4 patients (10%). Hepatic vein catheterization was accomplished in the remaining 36 patients. Fourteen patients were either later found to have nonalcoholic liver disease or had already received treatment that excluded them from the protocol. The remaining 22 patients, who were treated with blood and fluid replacement, were monitored for up to 72 hours. Portal pressure was greater than 11 mm Hg in all patients (normal, less than 5 mm Hg) and did not change significantly over the 3 days of study. Portal pressure was significantly higher in the 9 patients who continued to bleed or rebled compared with the 13 patients who remained stable. The lowest pressure associated with continued bleeding or rebleeding was 16 mm Hg. Continuous monitoring of portal pressure in patients with bleeding esophageal varices due to alcoholic cirrhosis is safe and feasible and permits rapid stratification of the risk of continued bleeding or early rebleeding.
Phase equilibria involving humite minerals in impure dolomitic limestones

The natural occurrence of critical assemblages among the phases clinohumite, calcite, dolomite, tremolite, forsterite, diopside, chlorite, and spinel in metamorphosed impure limestones, together with experimental and thermodynamic data, permits the calculation of phase equilibria governing the stability of clinohumite in terms of the variables P, T, and composition of a CO2-H2O-HF fluid. Equilibrium constant expressions are given for 23 equilibria that describe the stable phase relations between the above phases. Pure OH-clinohumite is considered to be metastable at relatively low pressures. The occurrence of clinohumite in natural marbles is the result of nonideal fluorine substitution which increases the stability of clinohumite. The stability field for clinohumite +calcite, governed primarily by the equilibrium 4forsterite+dolomite+H2O = clinohumite+calcite +CO2, expands to more CO2-rich fluid compositions with increasing fluorine contents and decreasing total pressure. The F/(F+OH) ratio of clinohumite coexisting with calcite, dolomite, and forsterite is a sensitive indicator of the composition of the mixedvolatile fluid phase. The thermodynamic model is in good agreement with observed phase relations and can be used to gain useful information concerning the P-T-X fluid conditions responsible for the formation of clinohumite.
Measuring patient flow in a children's hospital using a scorecard with composite measurement

BACKGROUND Although patient flow is a focus for improvement in hospitals, commonly used single or unaggregated measures fail to capture its complexity. Composite measures can account for multiple dimensions of performance but have not been reported for the assessment of patient flow. OBJECTIVES To present and discuss the implementation of a composite measure system as a way to measure and monitor patient flow and improvement activities at an urban children's hospital. METHODS A 5-domain patient flow scorecard with composite measurement was designed by an interdisciplinary workgroup using measures involved in multiple aspects of patient flow. RESULTS The composite score measurement system provided improvement teams and administrators with a comprehensive overview of patient flow. It captured overall performance trends and identified operational domains and specific components of patient flow that required improvement. DISCUSSION A patient flow scorecard with composite measurement holds advantages over a single or unaggregated measurement system, because it provides a holistic assessment of performance while also identifying specific areas in need of improvement. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2014;9:463–468. © 2014 Society of Hospital Medicine
Liquid–Liquid Mixing Studies in Annular Centrifugal Contactors Comparing Stationary Mixing Vane Options

Comparative studies of multiphase operation of an annular centrifugal contactor show the impact of housing stationary mixing vane configuration. A number of experimental results for several different mixing vane options are reported for operation of a 12.5 cm engineering-scale contactor unit. Fewer straight vanes give greater mixing-zone hold-up compared to curved vanes. Quantitative comparison of droplet size distribution also showed a significant decrease in mean diameter for four straight vanes versus eight curved vanes. This set of measurements gives a compelling case for careful consideration of mixing vane geometry when evaluating hydraulic operation and extraction process efficiency of annular centrifugal contactors.