cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Antigliadin Antibodies (AGA IgG) Are Related to Neurochemistry in Schizophrenia

Inflammation may play a role in schizophrenia; however, subgroups with immune regulation dysfunction may serve as distinct illness phenotypes with potential different treatment and prevention strategies. Emerging data shows that about 30% of people with schizophrenia have elevated antigliadin antibodies of the IgG type, representing a possible subgroup of schizophrenia patients with immune involvement. Also, recent data has shown a high correlation of IgG mediated antibodies between the periphery and cerebral spinal fluid in schizophrenia but not healthy controls, particularly AGA IgG suggesting that these antibodies may be crossing the blood brain barrier with resulting neuroinflammation. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is a noninvasive technique that allows the quantification of certain neurochemicals in vivo that may proxy inflammation in the brain such as myoinositol and choline-containing compounds (glycerophosphorylcholine and phosphorylcholine). The objective of this exploratory study was to examine the relationship between serum AGA IgG levels and MRS neurochemical levels. We hypothesized that higher AGA IgG levels would be associated with higher levels of myoinositol and choline-containing compounds (glycerophosphorylcholine plus phosphorylcholine; GPC+PC) in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). Thirty-three participants with a DSM-IV diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder had blood drawn and underwent neuroimaging using MRS within 9 months. We found that 10/33 (30%) had positive AGA IgG (≥20 U) similar to previous findings. While there were no significant differences in myoinositol and GPC+ PC levels between patients with and without AGA IgG positivity, there were significant relationships between both myoinositol (r=0.475, p = 0.007) and GPC+PC (r=0.36, p=0.045) with AGA IgG levels. This study shows a possible connection of AGA IgG antibodies to putative brain inflammation as measured by MRS in schizophrenia.
Long-term analysis of 2 prospective studies that incorporate mitomycin C into an adjuvant chemoradiation regimen for pancreatic and periampullary cancers.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to report toxicity and long-term survival outcomes of 2 prospective trials evaluating mitomycin C (MMC) with 5-fluorouracil–based adjuvant chemoradiation in resected periampullary adenocarcinoma. Methods and materials From 1996 to 2002, 119 patients received an adjuvant 4-drug chemotherapy regimen of 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, MMC, and dipyridamole with chemoradiation on 2 consecutive trials (trials A and B). Trial A patients received upfront chemoradiation (50 Gy split-course, 2.5 Gy/fraction) followed by 4 cycles of the 4-drug chemotherapy with bolus 5-fluorouracil. Trial B patients received 1 cycle of the 4-drug chemotherapy with continuous infusion 5-fluorouracil followed by continuous chemoradiation (45-54 Gy, 1.8 Gy/fraction) and 2 additional cycles of chemotherapy. Cox proportional hazards models were performed to identify prognostic factors for overall survival (OS). Results Of the 62 trial A patients, 61% had pancreatic and 39% nonpancreatic periampullary carcinomas. Trial B (n = 57) consisted of 68% pancreatic and 32% nonpancreatic periampullary carcinomas. Resection margin and lymph node status were similar for both trials. Median follow-up was longer for trial A than trial B (197.5 vs 107.0 months), with median OS of 32.2 and 24.2 months, respectively. Rates of 3-, 5-, and 10-year OS were 48%, 31%, and 26% in trial A and 32%, 23%, and 9% in trial B. On multivariate analysis, lymph node–positive resection was the strongest prognostic factor for OS. A pancreatic primary and positive margin status were also associated with inferior survival (P Conclusions This is the first study to report long-term outcomes of MMC with 5-fluorouracil–based adjuvant chemoradiation in periampullary cancers. Because MMC may be considered in DNA repair-deficient carcinomas, randomized trials are needed to determine the true benefit of adjuvant MMC.
Dissociation between magnitude comparison and relation identification across different formats for rational numbers

ABSTRACTThe present study examined whether a dissociation among formats for rational numbers (fractions, decimals, and percentages) can be obtained in tasks that require comparing a number to a non-symbolic quantity (discrete or else continuous). In Experiment 1, college students saw a discrete or else continuous image followed by a rational number, and had to decide which was numerically larger. In Experiment 2, participants saw the same displays but had to make a judgment about the type of ratio represented by the number. The magnitude task was performed more quickly using decimals (for both quantity types), whereas the relation task was performed more accurately with fractions (but only when the image showed discrete entities). The pattern observed for percentages was very similar to that for decimals. A dissociation between magnitude comparison and relational processing with rational numbers can be obtained when a symbolic number must be compared to a non-symbolic display.
Recent advances in the use of microfluidic technologies for single cell analysis

The inherent heterogeneity in cell populations has become of great interest and importance as analytical techniques have improved over the past decades. With the advent of personalized medicine, understanding the impact of this heterogeneity has become an important challenge for the research community. Many different microfluidic approaches with varying levels of throughput and resolution exist to study single cell activity. In this review, we take a broad view of the recent microfluidic developments in single cell analysis based on microwell, microchamber, and droplet platforms. We cover physical, chemical, and molecular biology approaches for cellular and molecular analysis including newly emerging genome-wide analysis.
Trauma Exposure and Health: A Review of Outcomes and Pathways

A growing body of literature has established robust relations between trauma and a variety of adverse physical health outcomes. In both retrospective and prospective research, adults with a history...
du Bois-Reymond, Emil

German physiologist Emil du Bois-Reymond (1818–96) was one of the founding fathers of electrophysiology. He completed a pioneering study on electrical phenomena associated with muscles and nerves, including the discovery of the action potential. He established a modern school of physiology in Berlin, based on the laws of physics and chemistry, although he rejected the ideas of vitalism that were prevalent among many scientists studying human and animal electrophysiology in the nineteenth century. He was a great thinker, philosopher, eloquent lecturer, and prolific writer, who wrote numerous seminal articles and gave many public speeches on a wide variety of scientific, philosophic, and literary topics.
Sequence of refusals for donor quality, organ utilization, and survival after lung transplantation.

BACKGROUND Lung donor utilization rates remain low, with many organs refused for donor quality. However, some centers have successfully transplanted these organs despite multiple refusals for donor quality (RDQs) by other centers. We hypothesized that the number of refusals due to donor quality does not impact post-transplant outcomes. METHODS Lung transplants (LTxs) from 2006 to 2015, identified using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database, were matched against the potential transplant recipient (PTR) data set by donor identification. Transplants were categorized into 2 groups: low RDQ (0 to 3 RDQs) and high RDQ (>3 RDQs). Post-transplant survival and predictors for high RDQ were observed using Kaplan‒Meier and logistic regression analyses, respectively. RESULTS Of 10,126 adult (>18 years) LTxs, 77% had at least 1 RDQ, with a median of 4 RDQs. Post-transplant 1-year survival was similar for both the low and high RDQ groups (p = 0.49). Furthermore, groups of recipients who received donors with an increasing number of RDQs (>3, >6, or >10) also had similar post-transplant 1-year survival (p = 0.77). Treatment for rejection within 1 year and intubation at 72 hours post-transplant were higher in the high RDQ group (p CONCLUSIONS Lung transplant survival is not associated with number of refusals due to donor quality. When determining whether an organ is suitable for transplant, the number of refusals due to donor quality should not influence one's decision, especially in this era of limited donor supply.
A bi-institutional phase II study of hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) with floxuridine (FUDR) and dexamethasone (Dex) combined with systemic gemcitabine and oxaliplatin (GemOx) for unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).

4092Background: Despite advances in systemic therapy for unresectable ICC, median survival remains less than 12 months (mo). HAI FUDR alone and combination systemic therapy both have activity in th...
The Production, Marketing, and Consumption of Sexually Explicit Material in Our Sexually Conflicted Society: A Public Policy Dilemma:

The production, marketing, and consumption of sexually explicit materials are contested issues for marketers, consumers, policymakers, and the general public. Analysis of the current controversies ...
Science Communication Redux: Returning to the Collision Point

In our previous discussion of scientific terminology salad in Chapter 4 we used an example from Gregory Benford’s Timescape in which “cranks seemed to think constructing a new theory involved only the invention of new terms” [1]. The term crank is slang for someone with strange ideas or behaviors. A common synonym is crackpot, and both terms are casually tossed around by scientists when discussing individuals (usually nonscientists) who claim to have either disproven various laws of physics (most often related to the work of Einstein) or have original ideas that not only violate accepted science but appear to not have any consistent scientific or mathematical basis. As I noted in that chapter, such derogatory terms are counterproductive when debunking misconceptions, as they feed into the very backfire effects we must seek to avoid.
Timing is everything: Diel metabolic and physiological changes in the diatom Cyclotella cryptica grown in simulated outdoor conditions

Abstract Microalgal cultures grown on a light-dark cycle experience diel patterns in metabolic and physiological processes, including cell cycle synchronization, but the implications for productivity in terms of biomass and commercially-appealing molecules are not commonly appreciated. Despite a long history of diel response studies, only recently have photobioreactor technology advances enabled the use of sinusoidal light and temperature to more accurately mimic outdoor conditions. The present study investigates cell cycle progression and dynamic changes on a 24-hour scale in triacylglycerol (TAG), photosynthetic pigments, and optical density at 750 nm (OD750) as a proxy for biomass in the production candidate diatom Cyclotella cryptica grown using a sinusoidal light and temperature regime. Cell division synchronized to occur predominantly in the middle of the light period while OD750 started to increase several hours earlier, as the cells prepared to divide. TAG levels increased during the day and decreased at night, with a mid-day dip corresponding to the time when lipid needs for cell division-associated membrane biosynthesis would be high. Photosynthetic pigment dynamics data was overlaid with cell cycle progression, indicating that while some photosynthetic pigments respond primarily to light, others are influenced by the cell cycle. Additionally, the results indicate that in a synchronized culture, potential product yields change substantially throughout the day. This may inform harvest timing to significantly increase yield.
Update on Serum Glucose and Metabolic Management of Clinical Nuclear Medicine Studies: Current Status and Proposed Future Directions

Management of a patient's blood glucose or metabolism in nuclear medicine studies has become an integral aspect of daily work primarily due to the increasing use of F-18 flurodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET). Newer tracers such as F-18 Fluciclovine and C-11 Choline, are in theory subject to metabolic shifts and changes based on patients' insulin levels, and also require attention to achieving optimum patient preparation. Metabolic derangements can also affect other studies, such as gastric emptying (GE), the results of which are dependent upon the patient's blood glucose level during the time of imaging. The growing variety of diabetic medications has increased the complexity of the instructions which need to be given to patients. Current guidelines for patient preparation were developed in the past and have only slowly evolved with the introduction of newer oral medications. In addition to older insulin formulations newer formulations with different profiles of onset, duration, and consistency of action are being used. The wide spectrum of newer drugs now in use for treating diabetes has not been accompanied by any updated consensus on how to manage these drugs for imaging studies which require blood glucose level management. In this article we review these newer diabetes medications primarily to raise awareness of the changing landscape. Our focus will be on suggestions to optimize patient preparation and management for these studies. For each scenario, our suggestions will be given as summary proposals for best patient management. Our hope is that this discussion will stimulate multicenter studies to provide data to support new practice guidelines for metabolically dependent nuclear medicine procedures.
Implementing Blockchain in Your Enterprise

Most executives are scrambling to educate themselves on how to lead their companies into the blockchain future. Adoption of technology by enterprises is on the rise. In a recent survey conducted by Juniper Research, employees of companies with more than 20,000 people were asked whether they were looking to incorporate blockchain. The survey found that 57% were interested in incorporating blockchain technology in their organizations. Additionally, 76% of the employees responded that blockchain could be “very useful” or “quite useful” to their company (Blockgeeks 2018).
All-dielectric concentration of electromagnetic fields at the nanoscale: the role of photonic nanojets

The photonic nanojet (PNJ) is a narrow high-energy beam that was originally found on the back side of all-dielectric spherical structures. It is a unique type of energy concentration mode. The field of PNJs has experienced rapid growth in the past decade: nonspherical and even pixelized PNJ generators based on new physics and principles along with extended photonic applications from linear optics to nonlinear optics have driven the re-evaluation of the role of PNJs in optics and photonics. In this article, we give a comprehensive review for the emerging sub-topics in the past decade with a focus on two specific areas: (1) PNJ generators based on natural materials, artificial materials and nanostructures, and even programmable systems instead of conventional dielectric geometries such as microspheres, cubes, and trihedral prisms, and (2) the emerging novel applications in both linear and nonlinear optics that are built upon the specific features of PNJs. The extraordinary features of PNJs including subwavelength concentration of electromagnetic energy, high intensity focusing spot, and lower Joule heating as compared to plasmonic resonance systems, have made PNJs attractive to diverse fields spanning from optical imaging, nanofabrication, and integrated photonics to biosensing, optical tweezers, and disease diagnosis.
Efficacy of different dosing schedules of capecitabine for metastatic breast cancer: a single-institution experience.

Purpose Capecitabine is widely used as a single agent on a 21-day cycle in the management of metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Our primary objective was to compare the standard dosing of capecitabine (Arm A: days 1–14 on 21-day cycle) to biweekly dosing (Arm B: days 1–7 and 15–21 on 28-day cycle) using retrospective data analysis. Methods 166 patients with MBC treated with single agent capecitabine at The Ohio State University from 2002 to 2014 were considered eligible. Median time to treatment failure (TTF) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using Kaplan-Meier (KM) methods. KM curves were compared using log-rank tests with Holm’s correction for multiplicity. Results Patients were grouped by dose schedule into one of three arms: Arm A (21-day cycle; capecitabine given at 1000 mg/m2 orally, twice daily on days 1–14 of 21-day cycle); Arm B (28-day cycle; capecitabine given at 1000 mg/m2 orally, twice daily on days 1–7 and 15–21 of 28-day cycle); and Arm C (changeover regimen where patients started on the 21-day cycle, but changed to a 28-day cycle for tolerability). No difference was found in TTF or OS for patients with MBC between those who received capecitabine on either standard dosing (Arm A) and those on a biweekly cycle (Arm B or C). Overall, 41% of patients required dose reduction. Conclusions Our single institution experience showed that alternate dosing of capecitabine (biweekly, 28-day cycle) may be a reasonable alternative to standard 21-day cycle with similar efficacy and fewer dose reductions.
State English learner education policy: A conceptual framework to guide comprehensive policy action

Given the role of the state as the primary governing level tasked with U.S. public education, combined with the rapid rise in the proportion of students who are identified as English learners (ELs), this manuscript puts forth a framework for state EL education policy. The framework is organized around three core principles of understanding students, providing high quality instruction, and supporting effective systems. Drawing on recent decades of policy research, the framework identifies nine key areas for comprehensive state policy action: (1) addressing diversity in EL skills and needs, (2) EL assessment, (3) classification and reclassification, (4) core content access, (5) English language development instruction, (6) bilingual education, (7) EL funding, (8) teacher preparation and skills, and (9) pre-K through postsecondary alignment. Along with synthesizing policy research in each of the nine areas, we present relevant policy implications. We outline how this framework can be used – and adapted – by policymakers and scholars to examine state EL education policy contexts and to guide future research and policymaking.
Global Warming: New Frontier of Research Deep Learning- Age of Distributed Green Smart Microgrid

The exponential increase in carbon-dioxide resulting Global Warming would make the planet earth to become inhabitable in many parts of the world with ensuing mass starvation. The rise of digital technology all over the world fundamentally have changed the lives of humans. The emerging technology of the Internet of Things, IoT, machine learning, data mining, biotechnology, biometric, and deep learning facilitate the development of distributed green smart microgrids. We have gained godlike powers as to become unrecognizable, and we have the power to destroy ourselves through environmental mismanagement and nuclear calamities. The exponential increase in carbon-dioxide resulting Global Warming would make the planet earth to become inhabitable in many parts of the world with ensuing mass starvation. The rise of digital technology all over the world fundamentally have changed the lives of humans. The emerging technology of the Internet of Things, IoT, machine learning, data mining, biotechnology, biometric, and deep learning facilitate the development of distributed green smart microgrids. We have gained godlike powers as to become unrecognizable, and we have the power to destroy ourselves through environmental mismanagement and nuclear calamities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Robust Maximization of Correlated Submodular Functions

Submodular maximization has applications in networked control, data summarization, and path planning, among other areas. While several efficient algorithms with provable optimality bounds have been developed for maximizing a single submodular function, the more computationally challenging problem of maximizing the minimum of a set of submodular functions (robust submodular maximization) has received less research attention. In this paper, we investigate robust submodular maximization when the objective functions are correlated, i.e., the marginal benefits of adding elements to each function are within a given ratio of each other. We propose a modified greedy algorithm that exploits the correlation ratio to achieve a provable optimality bound. As a case study, we consider minimization of graph effective resistance, and derive bounds on the correlation ratio using the graph spectrum. Our results are evaluated through numerical study.
Impact of electrocardiographic morphology on clinical outcomes in patients with non-ST elevation myocardial infarction receiving coronary angiography and intervention: a retrospective study.

Background The impact of electrocardiography (ECG) morphology on clinical outcomes in patients with non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) receiving percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is unknown. This study investigated whether different ST morphologies had different clinical outcomes in patients with NSTEMI receiving PCI. Methods This retrospective study analyzed record-linked data of 362 patients who had received PCI for NSTEMI between January 2008 and December 2010. ECG revealed ST depression in 67 patients, inverted T wave in 91 patients, and no significant ST-T changes in 204 patients. The primary endpoint was long-term all-cause mortality. The secondary endpoint was long-term cardiac death and non-fatal major adverse cardiac events. Results Compared to those patients whose ECG showed an inverted T wave and non-specific ST-T changes, patients whose ECG showed ST depression had more diabetes mellitus, advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) and left main artery disease, as well as more in-hospital mortality, cardiac death and pulmonary edema during hospitalization. Patients with ST depression had a significantly higher rate of long-term total mortality and cardiac death. Finally, multiple stepwise Cox regression analysis showed that an advanced Killip score, age, advanced CKD, prior percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and ST depression were independent predictors of the primary endpoint. Conclusions Among NSTEMI patients undergoing coronary angiography, those with ST depression had more in-hospital mortality and cardiac death. Long-term follow-up of patients with ST depression consistently reveals poor outcomes.
The Influence of Street Network Features on Robberies Around Public Housing Communities

Previous research has consistently identified a crime spillover effect from public housing communities. However, variation in spillover between communities has also been observed. Drawing upon envi...
miRs – Mere hype or master regulators in the therapy of BPD?

Abstract Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a developmental disorder of the premature lungs stemming from a multifactorial etiology and has a variable clinical phenotype. Innovative systems-biology based ‘omic’ approaches may help define the cellular and humoral interactions that regulate lung development and injury associated abnormalities and can provide better insights into the etiopathogenesis and potential novel therapeutic options related to BPD. MicroRNAs (miRs) are small non-coding RNAs that have increasingly been implicated in several lung diseases, including BPD. This chapter highlights the various miRs which have been studied in the pathogenesis of BPD. In addition, it discusses their potential role as targeted therapy for BPD.
Hypogammaglobulinemia in Adolescents and Young Adults with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

Hypogammaglobulinemia is a poorly described complication of chemotherapy in adolescents and young adults (AYAs, 15–39 years) with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The majority of AYAs treated on...
Impact of Host, Lifestyle and Environmental Factors in the Pathogenesis of MPN.

Philadelphia-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) occur when there is over-production of myeloid cells stemming from hematopoietic stem cells with constitutive activation of JAK/STAT signaling, with JAK2V617F being the most commonly occurring somatic driver mutation. Chronic inflammation is a hallmark feature of MPNs and it is now evident that inflammation is not only a symptom of MPN but can also provoke development and precipitate progression of disease. Herein we have considered major MPN driver mutation independent host, lifestyle, and environmental factors in the pathogenesis of MPN based upon epidemiological and experimental data. In addition to the traditional risk factors such as advanced age, there is evidence to indicate that inflammatory stimuli such as smoking can promote and drive MPN clone emergence and expansion. Diet induced inflammation could also play a role in MPN clonal expansion. Recognition of factors associated with MPN development support lifestyle modifications as an emerging therapeutic tool to restrain inflammation and diminish MPN progression.
Reproducing situationally triggered urgency incontinence in a controlled environment.

Introduction Patients with lower urinary tract symptoms often report urgency and incontinence episodes which are triggered by environmental scenarios, for example, "latch-key incontinence." To better understand the extent of this phenomenon, and how best to reduce its impact, we tested ways to recreate these situational cues in a controlled environment and obtain cue reactivity measures. Methods We developed a standardized set of urgency cue scenarios from interviews with sufferers of situational urgency urinary incontinence (UUI), personalized urgency, and safe cue sets consisting of photographs of specific locations, and measurements of cue reactivity during computer-based presentation and urodynamic monitoring. Results Common urgency and safe cues were identified for the standardized cue set. Exposure to these standardized cues elicited change in bladder sensation in 7 of 12 participants. Participants created personalized cue sets with photographs depicting their own urgency triggering scenarios; exposure to personalized cue photos elicited change in sensation in 11 of 12 participants. In addition, personalized cues elicited measurable detrusor overactivity and leakage during urodynamic monitoring. Safe cues reduced bladder sensation in five participants. Conclusion We developed a computer-based means of displaying cue photos which elicited cue reactivity from women suffering from situational urgency incontinence. Cue reactivity was increased by personalizing photos of cue scenarios and obtaining physiological measures from urodynamics. We have developed an appropriate way to test cue reactivity in women with situational UUI.
The New Community Assessment Process

The community assessment component is a critical part of the community-wide planning process, since it provides planners with an understanding of the environment and the uniqueness of the community. The first step involves the development of a general picture of the community and its healthcare system. This process includes a review of pertinent background materials and interviews with key participants inside and outside of health care. With the increasing interest in the social determinants of health, it is important that representatives of other sectors (e.g., education, housing, criminal justice) should be included. This information lays the groundwork for an environmental assessment of broad trends that begins at the societal level and then identifies similar developments at the local level. The key deliverables are profiles of the community and its population. Critical components are assessments of the population’s health status and its patterns of health behavior. Community resources are inventoried and this information interfaced with identified needs to determine gaps between needs and resources. The community assessment provides the basis for subsequent planning activities.
Biomechanics, evaluation, and management of subaxial cervical spine injuries: A comprehensive review of the literature.

Abstract Study design Literature review. Objectives It has been reported that 2.4–3.7% of all blunt trauma victims suffer some element of cervical spine fracture, with the majority of these patients suffering from C3-7 (subaxial) involvement. With the improvement of first-response to trauma in the community, there are an increasing number of patients who survive their initial trauma and thus arrive at the hospital in need of further evaluation, stabilization, and management of these injuries. Methods A comprehensive literature review compiled all relevant data on the biomechanics, imaging, evaluation, and medical and surgical management strategies for subaxial cervical spine fractures. Results After review of the current literature on subaxial cervical spine biomechanics, imaging characteristics, evaluation strategies and surgical and orthopedic management techniques, the authors created a comprehensive review and protocol for management of subaxial cervical spine fractures. Conclusions The subaxial cervical spine is biomechanically and anatomically unique from the remainder of the spinal axis. Evaluation of subaxial cervical spine injuries is nuanced, and improper management of these injuries can lead to significant patient morbidity and even death. This provides a comprehensive review combining anatomy, imaging characteristics, evaluation strategies, and surgical and orthopedic management principles for subaxial cervical spine fractures.
An Analysis of Efficiency and Effectiveness of Auditing to Detect Management Fraud: A Signal Detection Theory Approach

The purpose of this paper is to apply Signal Detection Theory (SDT) to the problem of detecting management fraud. The use of SDT methodology significantly strengthens our understanding of the relationships among audit technology, base rates of management fraud, costs of Type I and Type II errors, extensions of audit procedures, and risk assessments prior to and during the audit. The analysis indicates that the auditor must accept disproportionate false alarm rates in order to maintain audit effectiveness in the presence of management fraud. This condition becomes even stronger as the costs of Type II errors increase compared to costs of Type I errors. The study provides policy implications for auditor practice and standard-setters.
Novel use of radio frequency identification (RFID) provides a valid measure of indoor stair-based physical activity

Abstract This study sought to test the validity of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to measure indoor stair walking. RFID and Bluetooth sensors (accelerometers with the proximity function) were placed at landings across three floors within a stairwell. Participants (n = 29) were randomized to stair walking or sedentary control and concomitantly wore RFID tags at the hip, chest and neck. An accelerometer worn at the hip captured criterion physical activity data. RFID devices detected sedentary control and stair walking participants (mean RFID detections: 15.50, 47.33 respectively). Neck lanyard RFID tags were detected most frequently. RFID correctly classified all participants in both groups. RFID-based energy expenditure estimates were strongly correlated with accelerometer estimates (r = 0.78–0.94). Percent agreement for floor detection between the Bluetooth and RFID readers (38.6%) was consistent with known limitations of Bluetooth proximity sensing. It is concluded that, during self-paced stair walking in young adults, RFID devices provide valid data on participant movement and estimated energy expenditure.
Reorganization of the Mitochondria-Organelle Interactome during Postnatal Development in Skeletal Muscle

Cellular development requires the integrated assembly of intracellular structures into functionally specialized regions supporting overall cellular performance. However, it remains unclear how coordination of organelle interactions contributes to development of functional specificity across cell types. Here, we utilize a subcellular connectomics approach to define the cell-scale reorganization of the mitochondria-organelle interactome across postnatal development in skeletal muscle. We show that while mitochondrial networks are disorganized and loosely associated with the contractile apparatus at birth, contact sites among mitochondria, lipid droplets, and the sarcoplasmic reticulum are highly abundant in neonatal muscles. The maturation process is characterized by a transition to highly organized mitochondrial networks wrapped tightly around the muscle sarcomere but also to less frequent interactions with both lipid droplets and the sarcoplasmic reticulum. These data demonstrate a developmental redesign reflecting a functional shift from muscle cell assembly supported by inter-organelle communication toward a muscle fiber highly specialized for contractile function.
Validation of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy as a Non-Invasive Monitor of Cerebral Metabolism

Photons of the near infra-red range of the spectrum penetrate scalp and skull relatively easily (1). Near infra-red spectroscopy (NIRS) can therefore monitor cerebral microcirculation and mitochondrial oxidative state non-invasively. It utilizes the differential light absorbances of cytochrome c oxidase (a.k.a cytochrome aa3, Cyt aa3) and of oxy-and de-oxyhemoglobin (2,3). In this study, we compared Cyt aa3 and oxyhemoglobin (HbO2) signals to measurements of cerebral oxidative metabolism (CMRO2) and sagittal sinus venous saturation (ss SO2) at normothermia and hypothermia. 8 piglets (2–3 kg) were placed on total cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) at 100 ml/kg/min. Measurements were taken on initiation of CPB at 37°C, immediately after cooling to 18°C, after 60 min of hypothermia, and upon rewarming to 37°C and included cerebral blood flow by 133xenon clearance, arterial and sagittal sinus blood gases, CMRO2 (mlO2/100 g/min), and continuous NIRS (NiroscopeTM, Vander Cσrp) in units of variation in density.
Automomous Search in Complex Spaces

The search for information in a complex system space - such as the Web or large digital libraries, or in an unkown robotics environment - requires the design of efficient and intelligent strategies for (1) determining regions of interest using a variety of sensors, (2) detecting and classifying objects of interest, and (3) searching the space by autonomous agents. This paper discusses strategies for directing autonomous search based on spatio-temporal distributions. We discuss a model for search assuming that the environment is static, except for the effect of identifying object locations. Algorithms are designed and compared for autonomously directing a robot.
Effect of sub-anesthetic xylazine and ketamine (‘ketamine stun’) administered to calves immediately prior to castration

Abstract Objective To describe the pharmacokinetics, cortisol response and behavioral changes associated with administration of sub-anesthetic xylazine and ketamine prior to castration. Study design Prospective, randomized experiment. Animals Twenty-two male beef calves (260-310 kg). Methods Calves were randomly assigned to receive the following treatment immediately prior to surgical or simulated castration; 1) uncastrated, placebo-treated control (CONT) (n = 4), 2) Castrated, placebo treated control (CAST) (n = 6), 3) castrated with intravenous xylazine (X) (0.05 mg kg−1) (n = 6), and 4) castrated with IV xylazine (X) (0.05 mg kg−1) combined with ketamine (K) (0.1 mg kg−1) (n = 6). Blood samples collected over 10 hours post-castration were analyzed by LC-MS-MS for drug concentrations and chemiluminescent immunoassay for cortisol determination. Results Drug concentrations during the first 60 minutes post-castration fit a one-compartment open model with first-order elimination. The harmonic mean elimination half-lives (± pseudo SD) for X, X with K and K were 12.9 ± 1.2, 11.2 ± 3.1 and 10.6 ± 2.8 minutes, respectively. The proportion of the total area under the effect curve (AUEC) for cortisol during this period was significantly lower in the X group (13 ± 3%; p = 0.006) and the X+K group (14 ± 2%; p = 0.016) compared with the CAST calves (21 ± 2%). However, after 300 minutes the AUEC in the X group was higher than CAST. Significantly more calves demonstrated attitude that was unchanged from pre-manipulation behavior in the CONT (p = 0.021) and X+K treated calves (p = 0.0051) compared with the CAST calves. Conclusions Behavioral changes and lower serum cortisol concentrations during the first 60 minutes post-castration were associated with quantifiable xylazine and ketamine concentrations. Clinical relevance Low doses of xylazine and ketamine administered immediately prior to castration may offer a safe, efficacious and cost-effective systemically administered alternative or adjunct to local anesthesia.
Contesting the German Empire, 1871–1918 – By Matthew Jefferies

In the introduction, Matthew Jefferies outlines his goal of presenting an updated historiography of the Kaiserreich that reflects the current debates in the field. He largely succeeds in this task....
Matrimonio y estructura de la élite en la Florencia Renacentista, 1282-1500

Este texto, derivado de una ponencia en una conferencia, es un informe preliminar de un proyecto a larga escala para trazar las transformaciones en las estructuras de las redes de la elite florentina a lo largo de dos siglos. En este articulo me limito unicamente a la descripcion de tendencias anteriores, desconocidas en modelos amplios, de los matrimonios cruzados florentinos. Los lectores informados veran inmediatamente que dichas tendencias tienen implicaciones importantes para los debates en la historiografia florentina (que desarrollare mas adelante). En ultimo termino, estoy interesado en las implicaciones politicas de las tendencias aqui descritas. Pero por ahora no entro en una interpretacion, explicacion o argumentacion. Tratare unicamente de mostrar hechos nuevos.
Fracture of the penis

Fracture of the penis — rupture of the tunica albuginea — is rare. Blunt trauma to the erect penis is usually the cause. We present the case of a patient who was treated surgically with good results. Diagnosis and emergency management of this problem are reviewed.
Plant Biology for Young Children

My Life as a Plant is an activity book targeted toward helping young children see the importance, relevance, and beauty of plants in our daily lives. The book succeeds at introducing children to pl...
Identifying Personal and Contextual Factors that Contribute to Attrition Rates for Texas Public School Teachers

Teacher attrition is a significant problem facing schools, with a large percentage of teachers leaving the profession within their first few years. Given the need to retain high-quality teachers, research is needed to identify those teachers with higher retention rates. Using survival analyses and a large state dataset, researchers examined teacher data to identify those teacher and school variables associated with attrition. Unique to this study was the investigation of testing era (basic competency vs. higher standards based), school districts’ yearly ratings based on state-mandated testing, and charter school status. Analyses revealed that teacher attrition was greater during the high stakes-testing era, at low-performing schools, and for charter schools; however, beginning teacher age, gender, and school level moderated several attrition rates. Implications for public policy are discussed.
Thermal Analysis During Continuous Casting Process Using Effective Heat Capacity Method

A numerical analysis has been carried out to investigate the two-phase solidification process in continuous castings. An effective heat capacity method is used for this purpose. The radiation heat transfer at the mold metal interface was taken into account. The results of this method match well with the results obtained by analytical methods. The investigation included the ranges of mold cooling rate Bi 2 , inlet temperature θ 0 , and Peclet number Pe from 0.1-0.5, 1.2-2.0, and 0.1-1.0, respectively. A constant Stefan number Ste of 2.5 was used. It is observed that the solidification process is delayed with the increase of the withdrawal speed and with the increase of the liquid metal inlet temperature. With increased withdrawal speed, the region with temperature gradient moves downward. Steep axial temperature gradient was observed in the cast metal in the mold region.
Catatonia is hidden in plain sight among different pediatric disorders: A review article

Over the past two decades, catatonia has been better demarcated in adult psychiatry as a unique syndrome that consists of specific motor signs with a characteristic response to benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy. Pediatric catatonia is considered rare, but may be underdiagnosed, and hence undertreated. Discussed here are the current diagnostic criteria of catatonia in individual cases of children and adolescents diagnosed with childhood disintegrative disorder, Kleine-Levin syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, tic disorder, and autoimmune encephalitis, and the effects of benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy. In these cases, catatonia resolved safely once it was recognized and treated properly. Children and adolescents presenting with these disorders should be systematically assessed for catatonia; when the presence of catatonia is confirmed, the use of benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy should be considered. The occurrence of catatonia in such a wide range of child and adolescent disorders supports the view that pediatric catatonia is not so rare, that there are shared elements in the etiology, psychopathology, and pathophysiology of these disorders, and that catatonia is best classified as a unique neurobiologic syndrome.
Extraction of chemical impurities for forensic investigations: A case study for indoor releases of a sarin surrogate

Abstract A solvent extraction approach was developed and examined for extraction of targeted organophosphorus compounds as well as nerve agent simulants from painted wallboard (PWB). Painted wallboard was chosen as a substrate due to its presence as large surface area media in an indoor environment that is applicable to a chemical agent release scenario. Three different solvent systems were examined with a 1:1 methylene chloride: acetone mixture having the most robust and consistent extraction for four target organophosphorus compounds [dimethyl methyl phosphonate (DMMP), diethyl methyl phosphonate (DEMP), diethyl methyl phosphonothioate (DEMPT), and diisopropyl methyl phosphonate (DIMP)]. An average extraction efficiency of approximately 60% was obtained for these four compounds. The extraction approach was further demonstrated by extracting and detecting the chemical impurities present in neat DMMP that was vapor deposited onto painted wallboard tickets as a simulant to an agent release. Five chemical impurities that were present in DMMP – dimethyl phosphate, trimethyl ester phosphoric acid, ethyl methyl methylphosphonate, O,O,S-trimethyl ester phosphorothioic acid, and biphenyl were detected on the PWB and were utilized to determine the source/supplier of the DMMP.
Reduced Protamine Dosage for Heparin Neutralization in Open-Heart Operations

Two comparable groups of open-heart patients were given 0.79 and 1.37 mg of protamine for neutralization of exogenous heparin. The influence of protamine dosage on postoperative bleeding was then evaluated. The lower protamine dosage was associated with a more rapid neutralization of heparin, reduced postoperative blood loss, and a reduced incidence of exploratory thoracotomy for excessive bleeding.
Influence of Temperature and Dosage On Mortality of Seventh Instar Larvae of Galleria Mellonella (Insecta: Lepidoptera) Caused By Heterorhabditis Bacteriophora (Nematoda: Rhabditoidea) and Its Bacterial Associate Xenorhabdus Luminescens

The seventh instar larva of Galleria mellonella is killed by Heterorhabditis bacteriophora and its associated bacterium Xenorhabdus luminescens at temperatures from 12° to 28°. Whereas nematode development is inhibited at 12° and 30°, Xenorhabdus can grow and cause mortality from 12° to 33°. The length of the incubation period depends on the bacterial growth rate. Ninety-five percent of invasive juvenile nematodes survived more than 60 days in quarter strength Ringer's solution.
Na+ + K+-ATPase activity and transport processes in toad corneal epithelium.

Abstract 1. 1. Ascorbic acid, diamide and N-ethylmaleimide inhibit Na++ K+-ATPase activity in toad corneal epithelium. 2. 2. Ascorbic acid, diamide and N-ethylmaleimide increase α-aminoisobutyric acid accumulation in this tissue. 3. 3. The effects of these compounds on corneal amino acid and ion transport are not mediated through alterations in Na+ + K+-ATPase activity.
Imaging spectroscopy studies of Hawaiian ecosystems, carbon properties, and disturbance

The Hawaiian Islands contain more than two-thirds of the global life zones delineated by Holdridge1. We used high-fidelity imaging spectroscopy and shortwave-infrared (SWIR) spectral mixture analysis to analyze the lateral distribution of plant tissues and bare substrate across bioclimatic gradients and ecological life zones in Hawai'i. Unique quantities of photosynthetic and non-photosynthetic vegetation (PV, NPV) and bare substrate identified fundamental differences in ecosystem structure across life zones. There was a nearly 20-fold increase in PV fractional cover with a 10-fold increase in mean annual precipitation (< 250 to 2000 mm yr-1). NPV fractional cover remained nearly constant at ~50% in ecosystems with a mean annual precipitation < 1500 mm yr-1. Thereafter, NPV steadily declined to a minimum of ~ 20% at 3000 mm yr-1 of rainfall. Bare substrate fractions were highest (~50%) at precipitation levels < 750 mm yr-1, then declined to < 20% in the 750-1000 mm yr-1 zones. The combination of low bare substrate and high NPV cover in the 750-1000 mm yr-1 rainfall zones identified these areas as high fire risk. The results verify the applicability of SWIR imaging spectroscopy for ecosystem research on a global scale. They also set the framework for continued studies of ecosystem structure, function and invasive species throughout the Hawaiian Archipelago.© (2005) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Characteristics of Destruction from Latch-Up in CMOS

It is well known that CMOS small scale integrated (SSI) circuits will experience latch-up, when subjected to a high dose rate of ionizing radiation. However, the time required for latch-up and the characteristics of the subsequent behavior causing destruction of the device are not well known. The objectives of this study were (1) to characterize the latch-up time dependence, (2) to determine the sequence of events leading to destruction of the device, and (3) to characterize the destruction of the device. In keeping with these objectives, it was found that (1) the device does not actually latch for > 100 nanoseconds at the minimum dose rate necessary for latch-up, (2) the input protection diodes are usually involved as part of the parasitic four-layer equivalent of silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR), (3) the metallization of the VSS line (lowest potential of power source) is most orten destroyed, (4) contact window resistance increase is a prelude to metallization destruction, and (5) metallization destruction requires hundreds of microseconds.