cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cellular differences in ring glands of flesh fly pupae as a consequence of diapause programming.

Abstract The ultrastructure of the ring gland (corpus cardiacum (CC), prothoracic gland (PG) and corpus allatum (CA)) was examined in diapausing and nondiapausing flesh fly pupae. The diapause developmental state, which is environmentally regulated and coordinated by the brain-ring gland complex, is associated with differences in the ultrastructure of PG and CA cells but not in the CC. During diapause the PG and CA cells have extensive arrays of rough endoplasmic reticulum and spherical mitochondria. The PG cells also contain lipid droplets surrounded by an electron dense amorphous coat not seen in PG cells from nondiapausing pupae. In nondiapausing pupae, the PG and CA cells contain large amounts of ribosomes throughout the cytoplasm but very little rough endoplasmic reticulum and elongated mitochondria. The fact that ring glands from diapausing pupae readily incorporate 35 S-methioninc indicates that the gland is actively synthesizing proteins, thus the contrasts in ring gland ultrastructure are not due to cellular quiescence during diapause but reflect fundamental cellular and physiological differences between the diapause and nondiapause developmental program.
Small-area bends and beamsplitters for low-index-contrast waveguides

We explore the use of air trenches to achieve compact high efficiency 90° waveguide bends and beamsplitters for waveguide material systems that have low refractive index and low refractive index contrast between the core and clad materials. For a single air interface, simulation results show that the optical efficiency of a waveguide bend can be increased from 78.4% to 99.2% by simply decreasing the bend angle from 90° to 60°. This can be explained by the angular spectrum of the waveguide mode optical field. For 90° bends we use a micro-genetic algorithm (µGA) with a 2-D finite difference time domain (FDTD) method to rigorously design high efficiency waveguide bends composed of multiple air trenches. Simulation results show an optical efficiency of 97.2% for an optimized bend composed of three air trenches. Similarly, a single air trench can be designed to function as a 90° beamsplitter with 98.5% total efficiency.
Photic headshaking in the horse: 7 cases.

Seven horses with headshaking are described. No physical abnormalities were detected in any of the cases. Six of these horses had onset of clinical signs in the spring. The role of light was assessed by application of a blindfold or dark grey lens to the eyes, covering the eyes with a face mask and observing the horse in total darkness outdoors. Cessation of headshaking was observed with blindfolding (5/5 horses), night darkness outdoors (4/4 horses) and use of grey lenses (2/3 horses). Outdoor behaviour suggested efforts to avoid light in 4/4 cases. The photic sneeze in man is suggested as a putative mechanism for equine headshaking. Five of 7 horses had improvement with cyproheptadine treatment (0.3 mg/kg bwt b.i.d.). Headshaking developed within 2 calendar weeks of the same date for 3 consecutive years in one horse. Neuropharmacological alterations associated with photoperiod mechanisms leading to optic trigeminal summation are suggested as possible reasons for spring onset of headshaking.
Enoxacin Elevates MicroRNA Levels in Rat Frontal Cortex and Prevents Learned Helplessness.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a major public health concern. Despite tremendous advancement, the pathogenic mechanisms associated with MDD are still unclear. Moreover, a significant number of MDD subjects do not respond to the currently available medication. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs that control gene expression by modulating translation, mRNA degradation or stability of mRNA targets. The role of miRNAs in disease pathophysiology is emerging rapidly. Recently, we reported that miRNA expression is down-regulated in frontal cortex of depressed suicide subjects, and that rats exposed to repeated inescapable shock show differential miRNA changes depending on whether they exhibited normal adaptive responses or learned helpless behavior. Enoxacin, a fluoroquinolone used clinically as an antibacterial compound, enhances the production of miRNAs in vitro and in peripheral tissues in vivo, but has not yet been tested as an experimental tool to study the relation of miRNA expression to neural functions or behavior. Treatment of rats with 10 or 25 mg/kg enoxacin for one week increased the expression of miRNAs in frontal cortex and decreased the proportion of rats exhibiting learned helpless behavior following inescapable shock. Further studies are warranted to learn whether enoxacin may ameliorate depressive behavior in other rodent paradigms and in human clinical situations, and if so whether its mechanism is due to upregulation of miRNAs.
The Myth of the Rational Market: A History of Risk, Reward, and Delusion on Wall Street

The Myth of the Rational Market: A History of Risk, Reward, and Delusion on Wall Street Justin Fox New York, HarperCollins, 2009, 400 pp., $27.99 hardcover ISBN 978-0-06-059899-0The idea of the eff...
local Health knowledge and universal primary health care: A behavioral case from Costa Rica

This paper describes a group of rural people living in 2 communities in the Atlantic lowlands of Costa Rica and the health options available to them namely health posts clinics and hospital services private physicians and the traditional health system (bush medicine). The health posts are part of a comprehensive rural health program initiated by the Ministry of Health to offer basic health services to communities. The major barriers to the functioning of the PHC program are administrative: poor transportation scheduling and lack of personnel. People said their reason for not using the health posts is lack of confidence in their reliability. The peoples perspective about the solution to the problems of the health care system demonstrates some understanding of their own problems. The most frequently suggested change in the system is to have a permanent physician in the communities followed by the suggestion to have a permanent nurse and more medicines at the health post. All their suggestions involve the health post the most underutilized health resource in the community. Other suggestions involve the community level and the overall health delivery system and general improvement of living especially economic conditions. Health seeking strategies demonstrate a utilization patterns are: perceived seriousness of the illness; cost of services and methods of payment; perceived efficacy of the provider and treatment; accessibility and transportation. Consultations with family and friends praying and using bush medicines were reported for almost all illness episodes. The people of the 2 communities are active participants in their health care and in the health care system. The majority assume that there are limited health resources and that they must utilize all the alternatives. Preventive medicine is practiced by most of the people by keeping the body in balance through proper use of diet drinking bush teas avoiding certain behaviors and/or situations and using doctors medicines. The major factors that motivate their health seeking behavior are based on a combination of bush and Western knowledge in a pragmatic framework. There is a negotiation process between bush and scientific medicine in the cognitive processes of the people. A participatory model for PHC in which the micro and macro systems become interdependent is suggested. Health planners should ask whether the program will have access to people an answer to which is possible through knowledge of the culture i.e. the clients perspective. The planner should also pay attention to the factors that motivate people to seek health care and policies should involve community people in the planning process. Local participation in PHC is crucial in integrating the various levels in the health system. PHC must begin at the local level and with community involvement in planning. The specifics of the policies and plans however must be left open to negotiation depending on the culture and structure of the involved communities.
Healthcare team members' perception of staffing adequacy in a comprehensive cancer center.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: to describe the perceptions of staffing adequacy of healthcare team members working together on units in a comprehensive cancer center. RESEARCH APPROACH: a descriptive, phenomenologic design was used. Semistructured interviews were conducted with participants. SETTING: an urban, Magnet-designated comprehensive cancer center in the southwestern United States. PARTICIPANTS: a purposive sample of 10 RNs, 5 nursing assistants, and 5 associate directors. METHODOLOGIC APPROACH: data analysis was guided by Streubert's procedural interpretation of the phenomenologic method. FINDINGS: themes emerged, including alterations to care; challenges to an already challenging shift; the right mix; effects on patients, safety, and quality; mitigating factors; and the aftermath. CONCLUSIONS: perceived inadequate staffing affects healthcare staff both personally and professionally, triggering responses that influence approaches to patient care, unit operations, and relationships. INTERPRETATION: the unique and sometimes varied perspectives and experiences of frontline staff are critical to understanding factors that influence and affect willingness to work and remain in hospital settings, and may serve as a basis for shaping interventions and strategies to ensure adequate numbers of caregivers at the bedside.
Reassessment of Polynov's ion mobility series

Polynov (1937) calculated the relative mobilities of important elements in landscapes : Cl > SO 4 > Ca > Na > Mg > K > Si > Fe > Al. This series depicts a general weathering sequence that is essential to understanding many aspects of soil genesis and soil geography. It is argued on theoretical grounds that Ca and Na are out of proper sequence in Polynov's series. Polynov estimated ion mobilities by comparing the average content of elements in igneous rock to the average content of the same elements in river waters. However, an estimated 80% of the rocks at the earth's surface, which supply most of the leachate to rivers, are sedimentary. Accordingly, Polynov's mobility series was recalculated after adjusting rock chemical composition for the dominance of sedimentary rock types at the earth's surface. By using the elemental composition of igneous rocks in his calculations, Polynov greatly overestimated the amount of Na relative to Ca in rocks providing leachate to rivers. As a result, he significantly underestimated the mobility of Na relative to Ca. It is recommended that Polynov's ion mobility series be modified to the following : Cl > SO 4 > Na > Ca > Mg > K > Si > Fe > Al. This study showed that Na is much more mobile (relative mobility 18.0) than Ca (8.1), Mg (5.4), or K (3.5). Therefore, it is recommended that Na be placed in a distinct mobility phase (II) second in relative mobility to Cl and SO 4 (I).
Measurements of copper ground‐state and metastable level population densities in a copper‐chloride laser

The population densities of both the ground and the 2D(5/2) metastable states of copper atoms in a double-pulsed copper-chloride laser are correlated with laser energy as a function of time after the dissociation current pulse. Time-resolved density variations of the ground and excited copper atoms were derived from measurements of optical absorption at 324.7 and 510.6 nm, respectively, over a wide range of operating conditions in laser tubes with diameters of 4 to 40 mm. The minimum delay between the two current pulses at which lasing was observed is shown to be a function of the initial density and subsequent decay of the metastable state. Similarly, the maximum delay is shown to be a function of the initial density and decay of the ground state.
Temporal lobe pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma and chronic epilepsy: long-term surgical outcomes.

Abstract Objective To review clinical features and surgical outcome in patients with temporal lobe pleomorphic xanthoastrocytomas (PXAs) and intractable epilepsy. Methods The Rush Surgical Epilepsy Database was queried to identify patients with chronic intractable epilepsy who underwent resection of a temporal lobe PXA at Rush University Medical Center. Medical records were reviewed for demographic, procedure and follow-up data. Results Four patients were identified with a temporal lobe PXA and intractable epilepsy. Average age of seizure onset was 16.5 years and delay to surgery was 90 months. Complex partial seizures were the most common presenting symptom, shown in all 4 patients, and 3 of 4 patients presented with simple partial seizures as well. Seizures occurred with an average frequency of 4 per month (range 1–12 per month). Detailed operative and post-operative follow up data was available for all 4 patients. Gross total resection of the tumor was achieved in all 4 cases. Three of 4 cases had complete resection of the amygdala, and 3 cases had resections of the hippocampus (one partial and two complete). On histopathology, all tumors were found to be low-grade, without mitoses or necrosis. Average follow-up was 120 months (range 29–296 months) with all 4 patients achieving Engel's class I outcome. At last follow up, there was no radiographic or clinical evidence of tumor recurrence. There were no permanent complications. Conclusions Temporal lobe pleomorphic xanthoastrocytomas causing chronic intractable epilepsy occur in younger patients, and demonstrate excellent long-term results in seizure improvement and tumor control with surgery. We support the choice between simple lesionectomy and a tailored resection with amygdalohippocampectomy guided by preoperative findings, intraoperative electrocorticography, and the severity and chronicity of the patient's epilepsy.
The effects of early development on health and disease

The Fetal Matrix is one of the first books dedicated to the evolving concept of the developmental origins of health and disease; namely, how embryonic and fetal exposures influence the development of adult-onset diseases. As the authors note, ‘this book is about a significant shift in biological thinking’. It covers three major themes: (i) developmental biology and fetal/perinatal physiology; (ii) clinical epidemiology; and (iii) evolutionary biology. Readers are exposed to the contributions that these fields make to the understanding of how species survive short-term environmental changes, when species make critical adaptive choices and what the implications of these choices are to human biology.
A comparison of psychopathology in child psychiatric inpatients, outpatients, and nonpatients. Implications for treatment planning.

A total of 308 preadolescents who were either psychiatric inpatients, psychiatric outpatients, or nonpatients were studied with semistructured interview research instruments that have been described previously. The three groups of children included 106 children consecutively admitted to a voluntary hospital psychiatric inpatient unit, 101 consecutively admitted children to the same voluntary hospital center psychiatric outpatient clinic, and 101 randomly selected nonpatients. The research instruments included a Spectrum of Suicidal Behavior Scale, a Spectrum of Assaultive Behavior Scale, a Precipitating Events Scale, General Psychopathology (recent and past) Scales, a Family Background Scale, a Child's Concept of Death Scale, an Ego- Functioning Scale, an Ego-Defense Scale, and a Medical-Neurological Assessment Scale. The results of the study indicated that the presence of recent depression and recent and past aggression, the use of such ego defenses as projection, displacement, and regression, and the experience of parental separation were significantly different for the three groups of children. Impulse control and reality testing were best in the nonpatients and poorest in the inpatients. The variables that best predicted the need for psychiatric hospitalization were suicidal behavior, recent depression, recent aggression, poor reality testing, and such ego defenses as projection and regression. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Spirograph Planar Monopole Antenna (SPMA) Providing Unidirectional Invariant Radiation Patterns by Employing a Broadband Ground Plane

The spirograph planar monopole antenna (SPMA) is combined with the proposed broadband ground plane to achieve unidirectional radiation patterns with enhanced gain and minimal broadside gain variation. The broadband ground plane is a simple structure that consists of a resistive card and a copper sheet in a fixed position. The measured impedance bandwidth for the unidirectional SPMA, with VSWR <; 2 matching criterion, is 1.14-2.90 GHz (87.1% bandwidth). The antenna has a unidirectional radiation pattern that is mostly invariant over the entire frequency range, a single main lobe, and low cross polarization. The measured broadside gain varies from 2.59 to 6.85 dBi within the impedance bandwidth.
Temporal and spatial variations in sediment characteristics on the Mississippi-Alabama continental shelf

Abstract Sediment characteristics on the Mississippi-Alabama shelf are dynamic and change in time scales varying from less than 6 months to more than 2 years. Some sediment properties varied by more than an order of magnitude over the 2, years of study. Individual sediment components vary independently and can be described as cyclic, steadily increasing, random, or unchanging. Many of the variations are linked to influxes of terrestrial material associated with river discharge, non-point terrestrial run-off and/or outflow from coastal environments during storm events. Carbonate content and grain size varied from clay-rich fine-grained sediments associated with the Mississippi River delta complex to coarse-grained shell hash on the eastern shelf. Organic carbon content, extractable organic matter and hydrocarbons were elevated in sediments near the Mississippi River delta complex and in a band of sediments between the 100 and 200 m isobaths. TOC values in excess of 2% were observed, however, average TOC concentrations were 0.8%. Hydrocarbons in sediments were present at low concentrations and are a mixture of biological and petroleum hydrocarbons. Terrestrial plant biowaxes were ubiquitous and, when present, petroleum hydrocarbons were associated with elevated barium concentrations. Aromatic hydrocarbon compositions were indicative of unprocessed petroleum and were dissimilar to combustion PAH detected in adjacent bays. PAH concentrations were as much as six times lower than adjacent coastal sediment concentrations. Spatial and temporal heterogeneity in sediments is due to variations in inputs, preservation, diagenetic alteration and oceanographic setting.
Overview of dosimetry for systemic targeted radionuclide therapy (STaRT)

The purposes of systemic targeted radionuclide therapy dosimetry include compiling a database of normal organ radiation-absorbed doses that are carrier- and radionuclide-specific, and assuring that the normal organ radiation doses are within a safe range before therapy. Also of importance is quantitation of radiation delivery to tumors vs. normal tissues to correlate absorbed dose with tumor control. For agents with significant and variable excretion, estimates of individual patient distribution/clearance may be needed to optimize the dose-response relationship.
Study of nanosecond pulsed magnetic fields using temporally resolved Faraday rotation through a magneto-optical waveguide

We have measured magnetic fields up to 17.7 T with a rise time of 75 ns using temporally resolved Faraday rotation of a single longitudinal mode laser beam through a magneto-optically active bulk waveguide. We believe this to be the first time that such large, rapidly varying magnetic fields have been measured with this class of materials (multicomponent terbium borate glass). As there was no measurable lag between the magnetic field inferred from the angle of rotation of the laser beam and the electromagnetically measured field, our sample of terbium borate glass has a spin-lattice relaxation time of a few tens of nanoseconds at most at approximately room temperature (300 K). The highest peak magnetic fields were measured in wire-array Z-pinch experiments on a 0.5 MA pulsed power machine.
Null Mutation of the Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate–Oxidase Subunit p67phox Protects the Dahl-S Rat From Salt-Induced Reductions in Medullary Blood Flow and Glomerular Filtration Rate

Null mutations in the p67 phox subunit of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate–oxidase confer protection from salt sensitivity on Dahl salt-sensitive rats. Here, we track the sequential changes in medullary blood flow (MBF), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), urinary protein, and mean arterial pressure in SS p67 phox null rats and wild-type littermates during 21 days of 4.0% NaCl high-salt (HS) diet. Optical fibers were implanted in the renal medulla and MBF was measured in conscious rats by laser Doppler flowmetry. Separate groups of rats were prepared with femoral venous catheters and GFR was measured by the transcutaneous assessment of fluorescein isothiocyanate-sinistrin disappearance curves. Mean arterial blood pressure was measured by telemetry. In wild-type rats, HS caused a rapid reduction in MBF, which was significantly lower than control values by HS day-6. Reduced MBF was associated with a progressive increase in mean arterial pressure, averaging 170±5 mm Hg by HS salt day-21. A significant reduction in GFR was evident on day-14 HS, after the onset of hypertension and reduced MBF. In contrast, HS had no significant effect on MBF in SS p67 phox null rats and the pressor response to sodium was blunted, averaging 150±3 mm Hg on day-21 HS. GFR was maintained throughout the study and proteinuria was reduced. In summary, when p67 phox is not functional in the salt-sensitive rats, HS does not cause reduced MBF and salt-sensitive hypertension is attenuated, and consequently renal injury is reduced and GFR is maintained.
Safer Fats for Healthier Hearts: The Case for Eliminating Dietary Artificial Trans Fat Intake

In this issue, Angell and colleagues describe the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's trans fat restriction program. The successful intervention raises a key policy question: Is...
Fragility of Ge-As-Se glass-forming liquids in relation to rigidity percolation, and the Kauzmann paradox

The concept of mean-field rigidity percolation at average coordination number 〈r〉=2.4 in covalently bonded inorganic glasses is shown to be relevant to the liquid-state behavior of glass-forming chalcogenide systems. In particular it correlates with remarkable variations in ``fragility'' and excess heat capacity which we observe in the model ternary system Ge-As-Se. Except near ${\mathrm{As}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Se}}_{3}$, ${\mathit{T}}_{\mathit{g}}$ itself depends only on 〈r〉 anywhere in the system up to 〈r〉=2.5. These findings provide an important link between key structural concepts of glass science, the relaxation phenomena, and the thermodynamic problem embodied in the Kauzmann paradox.
Single Port Access (SPA™) gastrostomy tube in patients unable to receive percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy placement

Background Access procedures for alimentation have been performed both endoscopically and surgically. In those patients in whom endoscopic tubes cannot be placed, the minimally invasive approach is a viable alternative. To minimize incisions and their sequelae, we have developed a single port access (SPA) technique in which minimal access surgery can be done through one portal of entry, often the umbilicus.
An isolable, nonreducible high-valent manganese(V) imido corrolazine complex.

The manganese(V) imido complex [(TBP8Cz)MnV(NMes)] (2) was synthesized from the MnIII complex [(TBP8Cz)MnIII] (1) and thermolysis of mesityl azide. An X-ray structure of 2 reveals a short Mn−N distance [1.595(4) A], consistent with the Mn−N triple bond expected for a manganese(V) imido species. This high-valent species is remarkably inert to one- and two-electron reductive processes such as NR group transfer to alkenes or H-atom abstraction from O−H bonds. Electrochemical studies support this lack of reactivity. In contrast, oxidation of 2 is easily accomplished by treatment with [(4-BrC6H4)3N]•+SbCl6, giving a π-radical-cation complex.
COLOUR ASSOCIATED WITH SCOTOPIC VISION.

IT is usually asserted that scotopic vision, that which is associated with the rods, gives no sensation of colour. Nevertheless it has also been suggested that under photopic conditions the rods may function as the blue-sensitive receptors. In support of this idea it is cited that: (1) the fovea which is rod-free also lacks blue-sensitive receptors; (2) rhodopsin admixed with a large proportion of its own product of bleaching, visual yellow, could have a resultant activity – wave-length relationship similar to that expected for the blue-sensitive receptor; (3) moonlit scenes seem somewhat bluish although an analysis of the light shows it to have a lower colour temperature than sunlight.
SU-E-T-434: Use of Deformable Registration for Cumulated Dose Calculation in Image-Guided Intracavitary Bracytherapy for Cervical Cancer.

Purpose: The minimum dose to 2 cc of tissue receiving the highest dose (D2cc) has been suggested as a surrogate measurement for risk of developing toxicity in organs at risk (OARs) in patients receiving image‐guided cervical intracavitary brachytherapy. Conventional D2cc is typically calculated by simple summation, assuming the locations of the hot spots do not vary substantially. This study explores the effect of deformable image registration in determining a more accurate D2cc of rectum, sigmoid colon, bladder and small bowel. Methods: Five patients, with 2 pelvic CT scans each performed at the time of brachytherapy planning, were evaluated. The first scan was performed with an empty bladder (an indwelling catheter was in place) and the second with a full bladder (with 180‐cc sterile water). OARs were contoured on each scan. A symmetric demons algorithm with weighted sub‐area approach was used to register images from different fractions. A pelvic prostate phantom was used to verify the method. After registration, the cumulated D2cc (ND2cc) was compared to the conventional D2cc (OD2cc) without deformable registration. Results: In all cases, the ND2cc was lower than the OD2cc. For full bladder scans, the average difference (range) for rectum, sigmoid colon, bladder and small bowel between ND2cc and OD2cc were 28.9 (1.6 – 56.6)%, 34.7 (5.7 –68.4)%, 12.1 (0.0 –27.7)%, 7.2 (1.1 –22)% respectively. For empty bladder scans, the average differences (range) for the above organs between the ND2cc and the OD2cc were 30.7 (0.75–56.3%, 20.6 (6.3–39.6)%, 7.5 (0.88–13.1)%, 12.2(0.0–22.2)% respectively. Conclusions: A significant difference was observed between the ND2cc and the OD2cc with rectum and sigmoid being the most variable and bladder the least variable. While further studies are needed to evaluate which D2cc method is more useful in predicting late toxicity, we found the conventional method often overestimates dose to OARs.
Resonant leaky-mode photonic lattices with engineered spectra and device applications

This paper provides computed results elucidating the nature of resonant leaky modes associated with periodic refractive-index lattices such as gratings and photonic crystals. Computed Brillouin diagrams illustrate the association of the guided-mode resonance with the second stopband demonstrating the effects of grating profile symmetry and its Fourier harmonic content. Examples of wideband bandpass filters are given and the influence of variations in some of the design parameters on their spectral features is numerically evaluated. Reflectors with wide spectral and angular apertures are presented and their parametric sensitivity explored. Single-layer polarizers are demonstrated. Addition of homogeneous layers to enhance spectral features of the elements is briefly examined.
The effect of topical nitroglycerin on transcutaneous oxygen.

Summary The use of topical nitroglycerin has been reported to aid the healing of chronic skin ulcers. In this study, the effect of 2% nitroglycerin ointment on transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2) was investigated in skin adjacent to the area of ointment application. Topical nitroglycerin caused a two fivefold decrease in TCPO2 in skin next to or up to 9 cm away from the site of application of the ointment.
Does the ex utero intrapartum treatment to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation procedure change outcomes for high-risk patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia?

Abstract Purpose In the most severe cases of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), significant barotrauma or death can occur before advanced therapies such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) can be initiated. We have previously examined the use of the ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) to ECMO procedure (EXIT with placement on ECMO) in high-risk infants and reported a survival advantage. We report our experience with EXIT to ECMO in a more recent cohort of our patients with most severe CDH. Methods Every patient with less than 15% predicted lung volume during January 2005 to December 2010 was included. We obtained data on prenatal imaging, size and location of the defect, and survival. Results Seventeen high-risk infants were identified. All 17 (100%) received ECMO and required a patch. Six children were delivered by EXIT to ECMO, and only 2 (33%) survived. An additional patient was delivered by EXIT to intubation with ECMO on standby and died. Of the 10 children who did not receive EXIT, 5 (50%) survived. Conclusions No clear survival benefit with the use of the EXIT to ECMO procedure was demonstrated in this updated report of our high-risk CDH population. The general application of EXIT to ECMO for CDH is not supported by our results.
From pancreatic islets to central nervous system, the importance of glutamate dehydrogenase for the control of energy homeostasis

Glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) is a mitochondrial enzyme linking the Krebs cycle to the multifunctional amino acid glutamate. Thereby, GDH plays a pivotal role between carbohydrate and protein metabolisms, controlling production and consumption of the messenger molecule glutamate in neuroendocrine cells. GDH activity is under the control of several regulators, conferring to this enzyme energy-sensor property. Indeed, GDH directly depends on the provision of the co-factor NADH/NAD(+), rendering the enzyme sensitive to the redox status of the cell. Moreover, GDH is allosterically regulated by GTP and ADP. GDH is also regulated by ADP-ribosylation, mediated by a member of the energy-sensor family sirtuins, namely SIRT4. In the brain, GDH ensures the cycling of the neurotransmitter glutamate between neurons and astrocytes. GDH also controls ammonia metabolism and detoxification, mainly in the liver and kidney. In pancreatic β-cells, the importance of GDH as a key enzyme in the regulation of insulin secretion is now well established. Inhibition of GDH activity decreases insulin release, while activating mutations are associated with a hyperinsulinism syndrome. Although GDH enzyme catalyzes the same reaction in every tissue, its function regarding metabolic homeostasis varies greatly according to specific organs. In this review, we will discuss specificities of GDH regulation in neuroendocrine cells, in particular pancreatic islets and central nervous system.
Maternal negative affect and perceptions of "problem children" in the family.

This study investigates whether depressive tendencies or anger/hostility is associated with an increased propensity for a mother to target a particular child in the family as the “problem child.” The 180 participants were drawn from a larger cohort of urban, low-income mothers and young children. Maternal data were gathered from measures of self-reported and observed maternal emotionality. Sibling unfavored status was assessed by maternal verbal comparison of siblings. Results were consistent in showing that neither maternal depressive nor hostile affect is, by itself, predictive of a tendency to single out one child as a “troublemaker.” The significance of these results for causal models about differential parental treatment is discussed.
Does higher body mass index contribute to worse asthma control in an urban population

Background Epidemiologic findings support a positive association between asthma and obesity. Objective Determine whether obesity or increasing level of body mass index (BMI) are associated with worse asthma control in an ethnically diverse urban population. Methods Cross-sectional assessment of asthma control was performed in patients with asthma recruited from primary care offices by using 4 different validated asthma control questionnaires: the Asthma Control and Communication Instrument (ACCI), the Asthma Control Test (ACT), the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ), and the Asthma Therapy Assessment Questionnaire (ATAQ). Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between obesity and increasing BMI level and asthma control. Results Of 292 subjects with a mean age of 47 years, the majority were women (82%) and African American (67%). There was a high prevalence of obesity with 63%, with only 15% normal weight. The mean score from all 4 questionnaires showed an average suboptimal asthma control (mean score/maximum possible score): ACCI (8.3/19), ACT (15.4/ 25), ACQ (2.1/ 6), and ATAQ (1.3/ 4). Regression analysis showed no association between obesity or increasing BMI level and asthma control using all 4 questionnaires. This finding persisted even after adjusting for FEV 1 , smoking status, race, sex, selected comorbid illnesses, and long-term asthma controller use. Conclusion Using 4 validated asthma control questionnaires, we failed to find an association between obesity and asthma control in an urban population with asthma. Weight loss may not be an appropriate strategy to improve asthma control in this population.
Dynamics of the Orifices of the Venae Cavae Studied by Cineangiocardiography

Closure of the caval orifices of the right atrium and dynamics of the venae cavae have been studied by an analysis of high-speed cineangiocardiographic records. The influence of respirogenic and cardiogenic factors on venae cavae dynamics was demonstrated. Findings indicated that mechanical and hemodynamic factors interact in directing the atrial blood forward and in preventing its reflux into the venae cavae. Relative narrowing of the caval orifices was demonstrated during atrial systole. The degree of narrowing, however, was insufficient to produce a mechanical closure and thus to prevent caval refluxes when the pressure gradients were altered. The findings are illustrated and discussed.
Treatment of Massive Subretinal Hemorrhage From Complications of Scleral Buckling Procedures

Vitrectomy techniques permit removal of subretinal hemorrhage, but the prognosis varies and depends principally on the cause of the hemorrhage. Nine consecutive patients undergoing pars plana vitrectomy with internal drainage of massive subretinal hemorrhage from complications of scleral buckling procedures were studied, to evaluate the long-term results. In all eyes, the final visual acuity was improved, compared with preoperative visual acuity, and was 20/80 or better in seven of nine cases. Recurrent retinal detachment secondary to proliferative vitreoretinopathy developed in two patients, but complete retinal reattachment was achieved after further procedures were performed. Patients with massive subretinal hemorrhage from complications of scleral buckling procedures comprise a subgroup of patients with subretinal hemorrhage in which internal drainage via pars plana vitrectomy is an acceptable alternative to observation only and may result in improved visual acuity outcomes.
Sexual dimorphism in the response of adipose mass and cellularity to graded caloric restriction.

Objective: To investigate the effects of mild to moderate caloric restriction on parameters of body growth, fat mass, and adipose tissue cellularity in female and male Wistar rats. Research Methods and Procedures: Three-month-old female and male Wistar rats were subjected to a chronic, mild to moderate caloric restriction paradigm (5%, 10%, or 20% reduction in caloric intake from ad libitum values) for 6 months. This was accomplished using a unique automated feeder system tailored to the food consumption levels of individual rats. Body weight and length, weight of lean organs, regional adipose mass, and adipose cellularity were measured before and after the diet restriction. Results: Caloric restriction produced proportional decelerations in body weight increases in both genders, without significant changes in body length or lean organ mass. Marked and disproportional reductions in regional adipose tissue mass were produced at all levels of food restriction (even at 5% restriction). An unexpected finding was that in response to graded caloric restriction, female rats preserved adipose fat cell number at the expense of fat cell volume, whereas the converse was seen for male rats. Discussion: These studies demonstrate a sexual dimorphism in the response to mild to moderate degrees of chronic caloric restriction. At low levels of caloric restriction, it is possible to affect regional adipose mass and cellularity while preserving lean organ mass.
How Doctors and Patients Discuss Routine Clinical Decisions: Informed Decision Making in the Outpatient Setting

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the informed consent process in routine, primary care office practice. DESIGN: Cross-sectional, descriptive evaluation of audiotaped encounters. SETTING: Offices of primary care physicians in Portland, Oregon. PARTICIPANTS: Internists (54%) and family physicians (46%), and their patients. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Audiotapes of primary care office visits from a previous study of doctor-patient communication were coded for the number and type of clinical decisions made. The discussion between doctor and patient was scored according to six criteria for informed decision making: description of the nature of the decision, discussion of alternatives, discussion of risks and benefits, discussion of related uncertainties, assessment of the patient's understanding and elicitation of the patient's preference. Discussions leading to decisions included fewer than two of the six described elements of informed decision making (mean 1.23, median 1.0), most frequent of these was description of the nature of the decision (83% of discussion). Discussion of risks and benefits was less frequent (9%), and assessment of understanding was rare (2%). Discussions of management decisions were generally more substantive than discussions of diagnostic decisions (p = .05). CONCLUSIONS: Discussions leading to clinical decisions in these primary care settings did not fulfill the criteria considered integral to informed decision making. Physicians frequently described the nature of the decision, less frequently discussed risks and benefits, and rarely assessed the patient's understanding of the decision.
Rapid design and fabrication of new photonic integrated circuits for lightwave systems

In this paper we will review our efforts in developing both design and fabrication capabilities for photonic integrated circuits. Design is based on software for CAD and beam propagation simulation of planar waveguide circuits. Fabrication is based on a laser-based rapid prototyping system for patterning and processing waveguide materials.
Transcription and RNA polymerase stimulatory activity in nuclei isolated from soybean

Nuclei were isolated from light and dark grown soybean first leaves for use in studies on non-histone chromatin proteins. The ratio of DNA : RNA : protein for nuclei isolated from light grown and dark grown tissue was 1 : 0.30 : 2.81 and 1 : 0.33 : 4.02 respectively. The endogenous RNA polymerase activity of both types of nuclei was enhanced by exogenous DNA, and the addition of α-amanitin at a final concentration of 5 μg/ml resulted in 52% and 48% inhibition of RNA polymerase activity in nuclei from light and dark grown tissue respectively. The nuclei from dark grown tissue were nearly twice as active in RNA synthesis as the nuclei from light grown tissue on a DNA basis. Chromatin prepared from isolated nuclei had a 260/280 ratio if 1.63 for both light and dark grown tissue. The non-histone protein fraction of chromatin from both types of tissue was subjected to DNA-cellulose chromatography, which showed that material bound to the column and eluted at 0.6 M NaCl is capable of stimulating E. coli RNA polymerase 2–3-fold. The preparation stimulates transcription to a greater degree using native rather than denatured calf thymus DNA, and is more active at higher template concentrations. The non-histone protein fraction from soybean nuclei also stimulates purified soybean RNA polymerase II 2.5-fold when primed by soybean DNA, but to a lesser degree when primed by calf thymus DNA.
An evaluation of nursing development in a community NHS Trust

Aim This study sets out to evaluate the contribution of the Nursing Development Officer (NDO) on nursing developments within a local UK NHS Trust. Background Qualified nursing staff are an essential, although expensive resource and it is suggested that the contribution of professional employees should be continually assessed and developed in order to ensure that they are meeting the aims of the organization. Consequently a significant amount of resources has been focussed on the development of this staff group. Method Following a review of the literature the researcher collected two sets of data. Firstly quantitative data via a questionnaire from fieldstaff, and secondly qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with the nurse managers. Data were analysed manually by the researcher. Findings The main theme to emerge was the potential scope of the NDO role within the organization. The NDO was frequently consulted by nursing staff for advice and help, particularly for information on courses. Managers identified a range of themes which were the personal qualities of the NDO, the scope of service provided by the NDO, the qualities of the training and development department, the needs of nurses within the Trust and, finally, a range of corporate and external issues which impact on nursing development. Conclusions This study has evaluated the contribution of the NDO on nursing development and further highlighted the complementary systems that are necessary to enhance nursing within a healthcare organization.
Gender, Relational Role Orientation, and Affinity for Animal Rights

Research based mainly on non-national samples reports a greater affinity for animal rights among women than men, and proposes a greater relational role orientation among women that emphasizes caring for others to explain this difference. Using a recent national sample comprised of 11% African American and 89% white American respondents, we find that a relational role orientation fails to account for women’s greater support of animal rights. It does provide minor help in distinguishing animal rights advocates from nonadvocates, but only among women and only on one of two measures of animal rights support. We conclude by proposing women’s structural locations as well as the interplay between these locations and women’s role socialization as alternate explanations for gender differences in affinity for animal rights.
Student Affairs and Academic Affairs Collaborations in the Community College Setting

The relationship between academic affairs and student affairs units in higher education settings has traditionally and historically been troubled by the divergent understandings of each other's institutional role and the systematic division of labor between the two. However, for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is a desire to substantiate student learning across the institution, the roles of these units have begun to blur. This has led to increased collaboration between the units and increased research on such collaborations. This research project explores the nature of collaboration between academic affairs and student affairs in the community college setting, an area frequently left out of the collaboration conversation. Through analyzing the words of chief officers of these two units, the findings of this qualitative study indicate that community colleges have a unique opportunity to foster collaborations that focus on student learning. Based on these unique factors, the authors offer sugge...
Effect of a canopy interception reservoir on hydrological persistence in a general circulation model

Abstract Using decadal GCM simulations, the effects of a SVAT (Surface-Vegetation-Atmosphere-Transfer) and a “bucket” land surface parameterization on simulated hydrological persistence are contrasted. The bucket model promotes persistence, as measured by the one-month-lagged autocorrelations of precipitation and evaporation, relative to the SVAT model, particularly in the Tropics. An additional simulation shows that despite the many complexities incorporated into the SVAT model's evaporation formulation, it is the canopy interception reservoir alone that explains most of the difference. Water that evaporates from this reservoir bypasses bare soil and stomatal resistances. The interception reservoir thus acts as a short circuit in the soil and vegetation resistance network that decreases hydrological persistence by reducing the residence time of surface moisture.
Use of the Child Development Review Increases Residents' Discussion of Behavioral Problems

Objective.—To assess whether use of a parent questionnaire, the Child Development Review (CDR), before health maintenance examinations (HMEs) increases parent identification and increases resident discussion and documentation of behavioral issues for toddler and preschool-aged children. Study Design.—Quasi-experimental design using convenience samples with comparisons before and after questionnaire implementation. Sample.—Children 15 to 47 months of age and their parents attending a hospital-based, primary care clinic serving a low-income population, and the residents caring for them. Methods.—Participants were enrolled into early control, concurrent control, and intervention groups. All parents completed an exit interview about 9 behavioral issues and were asked if they had discussed these issues with the doctor. Before the visit, the intervention group parents completed the CDR, which was available for the residents to review. Information from the CDR and exit interview, and resident documentation were compared for control and intervention groups. Results.—There were 122 intervention and 135 control group HMEs. Parents using the CDR identified more behavioral issues for their children at the exit interview (median, 2.0 vs 1.0, P = .01). The 6 issues on both the CDR and the exit interview accounted for this increase. Intervention group parents reported discussion of more behavioral issues (median, 2.0 vs 0.0, P Conclusion.—Use of the CDR before HMEs increased parent identification and reported discussion of behavioral topics for toddler and preschool children.