cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SNS-595 a Novel S Phase Active Cytotoxic Acts Synergistically with Cytarabine To Reduce Bone Marrow Cellularity and Circulating Neutrophils.

Abstract SNS-595 is a novel naphthyridine analog, a class of compounds not previously used for cancer treatment. SNS-595 is currently in an escalating-dose phase 1 trial in acute leukemia and several phase 2 studies in solid tumors. SNS-595 has a unique mechanism of action; causing double-strand breaks during S phase that are solely repaired through a DNA-PK-dependent pathway. This damage induces DNA damage-repair signals through both p53 and p73 pathways during DNA synthesis and is accompanied by a rapid onset of apoptosis and an irreversible G2 arrest. This mechanism suggests that SNS-595 could interact in combination favorably with other DNA damaging agents that utilize different mechanisms of damage signaling and repair. SNS-595 demonstrates potent anti-proliferative effects on human leukemic cell lines in vitro and is active in LM-3 Jck and CCRF-CEM hematologic xenograft models. Previously, we have shown that administration of SNS-595 results in a dose dependent loss in bone marrow cellularity and reduction in circulating neutrophils in mice (Proc. Amer. Assoc. Cancer. Res. 47: 4726, 2006). These data suggest that SNS-595 activity in bone marrow and circulating blood may provide a therapeutic rationale for the treatment of acute leukemias and advanced chronic myelogenous leukemia. In this study we evaluated the effects of SNS-595 on peripheral white blood cells and bone marrow cellularity as a single agent and in combination with cytarabine (Ara-C) and daunorubicin (DNR). SNS-595 dosed once a day at 10 mg/kg IV as a single agent and Ara-C dosed three times a day as a single agent at 20 mg/kg SC, on day 0 and 4, resulted in 44% and 12% reductions in cellularity, respectively. In contrast, combination dosing of SNS-595 once a day at 10 mg/kg IV with Ara-C dosed three times a day at 20 mg/kg SC resulted in a 93% reduction in cellularity. Normal cellularity recovered on Day 12 (8 days post last dose). Furthermore, the SNS-595/Ara-C combination reduced cellularity more than Ara-C dosed at the MTD of 60 mg/kg three times a day SC (42% reduction in cellularity). Circulating leukocyte levels were also reduced including neutrophils that dropped from 1359 cells/ml to 587 cells/ml for SNS-595 dosed at 10 mg/kg IV and 1212 cells/ml for Ara-C dosed three times a day at 20 mg/kg SC on day 8. The co-administration of these two doses resulted in a near elimination of circulating neutrophils (29 cells/ml). Leukocyte counts subsequently returned to normal levels by Day 18 (14 days post last dose). In conclusion, co-administration of SNS-595 and Ara-C reversibly ablates murine bone marrow cells and reversibly depletes circulating neutrophils. These data indicate that SNS-595 has the potential to combine effectively with Ara-C for the treatment of acute leukemias and suggests that additional studies in patients with advanced hematologic malignancies are warranted.
Abducens nerve palsy due to inferior petrosal sinus thrombosis.

Isolated unilateral abducens nerve palsy is usually due to ischemia, trauma or neoplasm. Dorello's canal is the space between the petrous apex and superolateral portion of the clivus, bound superiorly by Gruber's ligament. The abducens nerve travels with inferior petrosal sinus (IPS) though the Dorello's canal before entering the cavernous sinus. A 31-year-old man presented with neck pain, and binocular horizontal diplopia, worse looking towards left and at distance. He had a history of intravenous drug abuse but no history of hypertension or diabetes. On examination, he had complete left 6th nerve palsy with normal fundi, pupils, and other cranial nerves. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia was detected with naive tricuspid valve endocarditis and multiple septic emboli to lungs with infarcts. His cerebrospinal fluid was normal. MRI of the brain was normal. MRV of head and neck showed thrombosis of the left internal jugular vein, left sigmoid sinus and left inferior petrosal sinus with normal cavernous sinus and no evidence of mastoiditis. He was treated with broad spectrum antibiotics. He was not anticoagulated for fear of pulmonary hemorrhage from pulmonary infarcts. Although cerebral venous sinus thrombosis commonly presents with elevated intracranial pressure, isolated ipsilateral 6th nerve palsy from its compression in Dorello's canal due to thrombosis of the ipsilateral inferior petrosal sinus is extremely rare. To our knowledge, only two patients have been reported with isolated abducens palsy due to IPS thrombosis; one caused by septic emboli and the other developed it during IPS cortisol level sampling.
3D hybrid integration for active silicon photonics (Conference Presentation)

Despite years of research and development, integrated laser sources remain a bottleneck for silicon photonics (SiPh). Integration of lasers into SiPh can be categorized as hybrid, heterogeneous, or monolithic. Hybrid approaches are the most mature. One example is the co-packaging of lasers with micro-optics and subsequent coupling of laser light to silicon waveguides. More scalable hybrid approaches include butt coupling of lasers and silicon waveguides without the use of micro-optics. This could be accomplished with two chips mounted side by side on a common carrier or by flip-chip bonding of laser chips into recesses adjacent to silicon waveguides. Heterogeneous approaches involve the intimate merging of traditionally incompatible materials and subsequent co-fabrication of these materials to form devices. This approach allows for best-in-class materials selection, however, co-fabrication requires complex fabrication processes. The term monolithic ordinarily refers to a single substrate and materials compatible with the substrate material. Germanium on silicon could be considered a monolithic approach, as could growth of III-V materials (such as indium phosphide (InP) and gallium arsenide) on silicon. This paper summarizes a novel 3D hybrid integration approach that is scalable, low cost, reliable, and that demonstrates superior thermal performance. The approach is based on flip-chip bonding and vertical coupling between InP and silicon waveguides. For the InP waveguide, vertical emission is achieved with a total internal reflection turning mirror. For the silicon waveguide, vertical coupling is achieved with a grating coupler. The InP chip is flip-chip bonded directly to the silicon substrate providing an effective heat sink.
A mechanistic insight into curcumin modulation of the IL-1β secretion and NLRP3 S-glutathionylation induced by needle-like cationic cellulose nanocrystals in myeloid cells

Abstract Recently we have demonstrated that needle-like cationic cellulose nanocrystals (CNC-AEMA2) evoke immunological responses through NLRP3 inflammasome/IL-1β inflammatory pathway. In this study we demonstrated that curcumin, a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound isolated from Curcuma longa (Zingiberaceae), was able to suppress, at least in part, this immunological response, as observed by diminished IL-1β secretion in CNC-AEMA2-stimulated macrophages primed with LPS. Curcumin is a well-known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory natural compound and in addition to acting as “scavenger” of reactive oxygen species (ROS), it can also upregulates antioxidant enzymes. However, the mechanisms by which this natural compound exerts its protective activity is still under investigation. We hypothesize that curcumin may also affect S-glutathionylation of key proteins involved in the NLRP3 inflammasome/IL-1β pathway, and therefore impact their protein-protein interactions. The goal of this study was to investigate the effects of curcumin on the S-glutathionylation of NLRP3 induced by CNC-AEMA2 in LPS-primed mouse macrophages (J774A.1), as well as interactions among proteins of the NLRP3 inflammasome complex. Our main finding indicates that the addition of curcumin concomitantly with LPS caused the greatest decrease in NLRP3 S-glutathionylation and a respective increase in caspase-1 S-glutathionylation, which appears to favor protein-protein interactions in the NLRP3 complex. Taking together, our results suggest that, at least in part, the anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin is associated with changes in S-glutathionylation of key NLRP3 inflammasome components, and perhaps resulting in sustained complex assembly and suppression of IL-1β secretion.
Considering passive mechanical properties and patient user motor performance in lower limb prosthesis design optimization to enhance rehabilitation outcomes

Background: Selection of prosthesis mechanical characteristics to restore function of persons with lower limb loss can be framed as an optimization problem to satisfy a given performance objective. However, the choice of a particular objective is critical, and considering only device and generalizable outcomes across users without accounting for inherent motor performance likely restricts a given patient from fully realizing the benefits of a prosthetic intervention.Objectives: This review presents methods for optimizing passive below-knee prosthesis designs to maximize rehabilitation outcomes and how considerations on patient motor performance may enhance these outcomes.Major Findings: Available literature supports that considering patient-specific variables pertaining to motor performance permits a multidimensional landscape relating device characteristics and user function, which may yield more accurate predictions of rehabilitation outcomes for individual patients. Moreover, the addition of targeted p...
Fifty-two words for snow: dermatologists naming epidermal naevi.

In the April 2017 issue of BJD, Kuentz et al (1) report an FGFR2 mutation in a subtype of nevus sebaceus (NS). On review of the histopathology, we question the clinical diagnosis and feel that these cases may better fit with keratinocytic epidermal nevus (KEN) or remain unclassified “epidermal nevi”. Both KEN and NS are papillomatous with epidermal hyperplasia (2), and while the authors note “small foci of sebaceous glands and immature hair follicle buds”, they wisely observe that the early gestational age may have limited the full adnexal development and thus, it is possible these may have developed into other clinical subtypes of epidermal nevi. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
From New York to Ecuador and Back Again: Transnational Journeys of Policies and People

In this article, I explore the surprising and unexpected turns that have developed since zero tolerance policing was exported from New York to Ecuador at the turn of the new millennium. Drawing fro...
State Medicaid Reimbursement for Medications for Chronic Hepatitis C Infection from 2012 through 2015

Abstract Background New direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) can cure chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. High DAA prices combined with a large number of patients needing treatment may pose substantial economic burden on health systems. Objectives To examine Medicaid reimbursement for medications for HCV infection before and after the availability of new DAAs overall and by state and to also assess the impact of Medicaid expansion on reimbursement for DAAs. Methods We calculated Medicaid reimbursements for medications for HCV infection between 2012 and 2015 in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Outcomes included inflation-adjusted Medicaid reimbursement for medications for HCV infection, market share of individual DAAs, percentages of Medicaid outpatient pharmacy reimbursement for DAAs, and Medicaid reimbursement per Medicaid enrollee with HCV infection. Results Medicaid reimbursement for medications for HCV infection increased from $723 million in 2012 to $2.35 billion in 2015. We found variations in Medicaid reimbursement for DAAs between states in 2014 (up to 7.4 times HCV infection prevalence) that widened in 2015 (0.1–11.4 times HCV infection prevalence). Expansion states had significantly higher increases in reimbursement for DAAs per enrollee with HCV infection compared with non- or late-expansion states ($2178.60; 95% confidence interval $1558.90–$2798.40), controlling for pre-expansion reimbursement. Conclusions Medicaid reimbursement for DAAs differs across states after controlling for HCV infection prevalence. A third of states contributed more than 5% to 15% of pharmacy reimbursements to DAAs. Medications for HCV infection are only one class of highly priced specialty drugs. Innovative policy strategies are needed for health systems to manage coverage for an increasing number of expensive specialty medications indicated for an increasing number of patients.
Activation of a Gene Coding for a Normal Human Growth Factor to One with Transforming Properties

One of the most intensely investigated areas in cancer research has evolved from studies of a small group of viruses, the acute transforming retroviruses. These agents have arisen in nature as apparently rare events resulting from recombination of replication competent type C retro-viruses with a small set of evolutionarily highly conserved cellular genes termed proto-oncogenes. Such transduced cellular (onc) sequences confer new properties required for the rapid induction of malignancies by the viruses. Recent studies have indicated that proto-oncogenes can be activated as oncogenes directly within human cells in the absence of retrovirus involvement, and that such oncogenes may very well play a role in the development of the fully neoplastic cell. If so, understanding of the normal functions of proto-oncogenes as well as how alterations in their coding sequences or transcriptional control lead them to acquire transforming properties may be critical to the development of new and better approaches to cancer diagnosis and treatment. The present review summarizes how investigations of one transforming gene, sis, has led to fundamental insights concerning the normal functions of this small set of cellular genes which appear to be frequent targets for the genetic alterations that lead normal cells along the pathways to malignancy.
Ch. R-3 Bacteria-Mineral Surface Interactions in a Laboratory Model Reservoir Environment

Abstract Bacteria were cultured in two types of microcosms that model reservoir conditions. Mineral or rock components of the microcosms were calcite crystals, quartz sand, or sandstone chips. The fluid component was sterile nutrient-enriched seawater. Crude oil was used as the only source of organic carbon. The microcosms were inoculated with a mixed-community culture of hydrocarbon-utilizing bacteria and incubated at room temperature for up to nine months. Mineral grains and sandstone were examined for evidence of bacterial colonization and diagenesis periodically throughout the experiments. Microbially colonized mineral surfaces were prepared for SEM examination by air drying and critical point drying. Enrichment techniques were used to isolate thirteen pure strains of bacteria from the mixed culture. Three strains were identified by fatty acid analysis. Critical-point drying preserved bacterial morphology and details of the bacteria/mineral surface better than air drying, but air drying was found to be sufficient for reconnaissance observations. Bacteria colonized the surfaces of unconsolidated sediments and were concentrated in surface cracks. In experiments with rock, bacteria penetrated to the interior of 2 cm sandstone chips and colonized the surfaces of quartz, feldspar, and clay minerals. Isolated bacteria and microcolonies were the most commonly observed colonization pattern on sediment and rock surfaces. Pits and runnels in quartz overgrowth surfaces were observed beneath attached bacteria. These pits appear to be the result of quartz dissolution at the mineral/bacteria contact.
Blood–Brain Barrier and Neurovascular Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration and Injury

Neurovascular mechanisms contribute to a chronic neurodegenerative process in disorders of the aging nervous system. Faulty blood–brain barrier (BBB) functions, aberrant brain angiogenesis, vessel regression, neurovascular uncoupling, brain hypoperfusion, and neurovascular inflammation are different modalities of the aging and/or dysfunctional cerebrovascular system, and may precede neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, and other disorders of the nervous system. Disintegration of the neurovascular unit leads to a vicious circle of degeneration dominated by an irreversible BBB failure, chemical imbalance in the neuronal internal environment, and neurovascular inflammatory and/or immune responses. Ultimately these processes result in synaptic and neuronal dysfunction, injury, and loss.
Interfacial debonding of a spherical inclusion embedded in an infinite medium under remote stress

In the study of strength of particle reinforced composites, it is important to understand the energy release rate due to interfacial debonding between the particle and the matrix which is induced by manufacturing imperfection. This paper is aimed at the investigation of the critical condition for growth of the interfacial debonding and the corresponding volume increase due to void formation. The model used in the study is an isotropic elastic spherical inclusion embedded in an infinite isotropic elastic matrix under remote stress. Initial axisymmetrical interfacial debondings are assumed to exist in the vicinity of poles of the spherical inclusion. Axisymmetrical deformations of the matrix and the inclusion are analyzed based on the theory of three-dimensional elasticity in spherical coordinates. In order to avoid oscillatory stress singularity at the interfacial debonding front between two dissimilar materials, a condition of free slipping without friction at the interface is imposed. A Fredholm integral equation of the first kind is formulated based on the continuity conditions in the normal components of stress and displacement at the contact interface. The kernel function of the integral equation is expressed in terms of an infinite series of Legendre functions. Two types of remote stresses are considered in this study. The first type is the remote tension in the axial direction of the spherical inclusion and the second type is the remote compression in the transverse direction with respect to the axis of the spherical inclusion. Energy release rate is determined according to the rate of change of work done by remote stresses. In this paper, energy release rate and volume of the deformed void due to debonding are computed for any given size of initial interfacial debonding.
Omega-3 Oil Does Not Reduce Serious Cardiovascular Events for Patients with Diabetes Mellitus.

In this study, there was no significant difference in the likelihood of a composite vascular outcome or all-cause mortality in patients given an omega-3 fatty acid supplement compared with those given an olive oil placebo.
Super-resolution manipulation & imaging of plasmonic CRISPR-Cas9

CRISPR-Cas9 is a gene editing tool which has promise for the treatment and prevention of many complex diseases. Together with a short guide RNA, CRISPR-Cas9 can recognize and cut the corresponding DNA at a targeted location. Viruses are traditionally used as carriers of CRISPR-Cas9 into target cells. However, viruses may cause immunogenic complications. Alternatively, gold nanoparticles can be utilized as carriers of CRISPR-Cas9. Gold nanoparticles in the near infrared regime exhibit unique optical properties. In this work, we show gold nanoparticles can be stably and efficiently crosslinked to the CRISPR complex.These alternative carriers are toxicity free to and allow effective and efficient introduction of the CRISPR system.
To work alone or with peers: Examining smallholder coffee farmers’ perceptions influencing collective actions

This study examines how smallholder coffee farmers’ perceptions may influence their engagement in peer mobilization and collective action. Forty smallholder coffee farmers were interviewed in the Central Highlands region of Peru using a closed-ended instrument. The sample of smallholder farmers was achieved using purposive and snowball sampling methods. Quantitative data on farmers’ attitudes and aspirations regarding working with peers, autonomy, and external support as well as knowledge, skills, and behaviors pertinent to collective actions were collected and analyzed using descriptive and correlational procedures. Key findings indicate farmers perceive a need for external support, feel there are benefits of collective actions, and aspire to work with their peers. Based on the findings, it is recommended that practitioners and farmer group leaders focus training efforts on building smallholders’ knowledge and skills in mobilization, encourage peer association/collective action as a source of external support, and target knowledgeable, skilled and confident farmers to lead collective actions. This study has implications to bolster support for farmer-to-farmer extension and technical assistance systems and inform the identification of leader farmers.
Computationally derived anatomic subtypes of behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia show temporal stability and divergent patterns of longitudinal atrophy.

Author(s): Ranasinghe, Kamalini G; Toller, Gianina; Cobigo, Yann; Chiang, Kevin; Callahan, Patrick; Eliazer, Caleb; Kramer, Joel H; Rosen, Howard J; Miller, Bruce L; Rankin, Katherine P | Abstract: IntroductionBehavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) can be computationally divided into four distinct anatomic subtypes based on patterns of frontotemporal and subcortical atrophy. To more precisely predict disease trajectories of individual patients, the temporal stability of each subtype must be characterized.MethodsWe investigated the longitudinal stability of the four previously identified anatomic subtypes in 72 bvFTD patients. We also applied a voxel-wise mixed effects model to examine subtype differences in atrophy patterns across multiple timepoints.ResultsOur results demonstrate the stability of the anatomic subtypes at baseline and over time. While they had common salience network atrophy, each subtype showed distinctive baseline and longitudinal atrophy patterns.DiscussionRecognizing these anatomically heterogeneous subtypes and their different patterns of atrophy progression in early bvFTD will improve disease course prediction in individual patients. Longitudinal volumetric predictions based on these anatomic subtypes may be used as a more accurate endpoint in treatment trials.
Motion degradation in optic nerve MRI: A randomized intraindividual comparison study of eye states.

Abstract Purpose MRI is a powerful tool for optic nerve assessment, but image quality can be degraded by artifacts related to ocular motion. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of undergoing MRI with eyes open versus closed on the degree of motion degradation affecting the optic nerves. Method Patients undergoing 3 Tesla orbital MRI were randomized to undergo the coronal STIR sequence with eyes open and focused on a standardized fixation point, blinking as needed, or with eyes closed. The sequence was then performed again with the other instruction set. Two neuroradiologists rated the intraorbital optic nerves for motion artifact on a 5-point scale (higher numbers reflecting greater motion artifact) in 2 locations of each nerve. Differences were evaluated by the clustered Wilcoxon signed rank test. Results Seventy-seven orbits were included. Interrater reliability was high (weighted kappa = 0.78). The anterior intraorbital optic nerves were rated with less motion artifact when eyes were open and focused during acquisition than when closed (p = 0.006), but this was not the case for the posterior intraorbital optic nerve (p = 0.69). For example, at the anterior intraorbital optic nerve, motion artifact of mean grade better than 2 was seen in 60% of eyes-open vs. 32% of eyes-closed acquisitions, while mean grade 4 or worse was seen in 4% of eyes-open vs. 12% of eyes-closed acquisitions. Conclusion Undergoing orbital MRI with eyes open and focused rather than closed reduces motion artifact at the anterior intraorbital segment of the optic nerve.
Design of periodic laminated composite beams in free vibration

Abstract Composite materials are being used in many weight-sensitive applications due to their attractive features of high strength-to-weight and stiffness-to-weight ratios and design flexibility. In harsh dynamic environments, excitation frequencies can lead to resonance at some frequency bands, impacting the integrity and functionality of the whole composite structure. Adding patches to the main structure at periodic locations introduces stopbands, which are frequency bands where vibration amplitudes are highly attenuated, and natural frequencies are absent. Using composite materials in such periodic patches enables more design flexibility that can be used to generate stopbands at desired frequency ranges. This paper presents a design approach for periodic laminated composite beams to obtain the patch length and stacking sequence that realize the desired start and end stopband frequencies. Based on the reverse approach of the wave finite element (WFE) method, the proposed design approach includes solving two nonlinear algebraic equations to find the design point. Then, a search for all possible patch stacking sequences that realize this design point and achieve the target stopband with the least possible error is done. The design approach was validated by demonstrating that it generates the inputs that were used by an analysis code to generate the design code inputs. Various examples are presented with different stopband ranges, fiber-orientation angles and materials of the substrate and patch plies. It is shown that depending on the substrate material, number of plies per patch and desired stopband start and end frequencies, one can obtain several possible stacking sequences that can realize the design. The study focuses on beam bending modes in the 0–2000 Hz frequency range, where classical lamination and Euler-Bernoulli’s beam theories are valid.
Applying Technological Approaches to Clinical Supervision in Dialectical Behavior Therapy: A Randomized Feasibility Trial of the Bug-in-the-Eye (BITE) Model☆

Abstract The growth of the evidence based practice (EBP) movement has created a need for efficient models of EBP training that provide timely feedback to trainees. This feasibility trial examined a technological approach to clinical supervision called bug-in-the-eye (BITE) among trainees learning Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Eight DBT trainees within a psychiatry residency program were randomized to receive either supervision-as-usual (SAU; n = 4) or BITE group supervision (n = 4) during a 1-year elective clinical rotation. A mixed method design was used to evaluate acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary effectiveness of BITE to improve DBT knowledge transfer and reduce burnout relative to SAU. Qualitative analyses indicate that BITE was feasible to implement and acceptable among trainees. Trainees assigned to the BITE condition had significantly better postsupervision scores on a DBT case formulation assignment compared to those receiving SAU. The BITE condition also showed a trend toward higher scores on an exam measuring knowledge of DBT skills and theory. There were no trends noted over time or between condition on pre-post reports of burnout or satisfaction with supervision. This study finds preliminary support for a supervision approach using BITE technology as a feasible and acceptable model of clinical supervision that is associated with differentially greater learning for DBT case conceptualization compared to traditional supervision. A key limitation of the study is the small sample size, which limits both statistical power and generalizability; however, findings suggest that technological methods of enhancing supervision may be implemented successfully in evidence-based behavioral therapies.
X‐Rays, Production of

Discovered by Wilhelm Roentgen in 1895, X rays are commonly used for many medical diagnostic imaging procedures—from a simple chest radiograph to a multislice computed tomography exam. X-ray tube components are contained within an evacuated glass envelope that allows a focused beam of electrons to interact with a metal target to produce X rays by two methods: bremsstrahlung and characteristic X rays. This process is relatively inefficient because most of the electrons’ energy results in heat that must be dissipated to avoid failure of the tube. In addition, the size of the focus of the electron beam impinging on the target directly affects the image quality of clinical procedures. Due to these competing factors, an X-ray tube design must represent the right balance between imaging quality and heat dissipation for a particular clinical application. Keywords: x-ray tube; anode; tube housing; bremsstrahlung; focal spot; heat capacity; characteristic x rays
Public Health, Emergency Response, and Medical Preparedness IV: Emergency Evacuation

In the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks and the dissemination of anthrax in 2001, the ability of the US health-care system to provide an effective and coordinated response and evacuation capability to mitigate mass casualty or complex incidents came under intense scrutiny. More recently, the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina and the mass disruption of public health and medical services along the Gulf Coast spotlighted the need for cohesive strategies that focus on mounting effective evacuation and response for catastrophic events. Determining the most effective evacuation plan for a large public facility requires in-depth analysis of multiple interdependent and competing factors. Determining the best routes, foreseeing potential problems, addressing the chaos/panic factor, and orchestrating the evacuation are all critical aspects that should be evaluated in a well-developed disaster management plan. The success of the evacuation of 80,000 in the stadium Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid, Spain within 7 min sheds some light on the potential to save many lives through careful planning and proper evacuation responses. Emergency responders and coordinators must be equipped with such knowledge so as to protect the regional population during critical incidents. In this article, we seek to understand the elements that influence evacuation planning, issues faced by decision makers, as well as methodologies from the field of operations research that are leading to more effective planning and execution. Keywords: public health; emergency response; disaster medicine; medical preparedness; homeland security; terrorist attack; emergency evacuation; evacuation behavior; interdependencies (facility, people, support services); simulation models; optimization; computational intractability
The Foot and Ankle

An overview of orthopedics would not be complete without an understanding of the foot and ankle. This area of the body is often forgotten in the scheme of things and yet is one of the most common sources of complaints in any physician’s office. Painful feet are seen in emergency rooms and family practitioner’s offices. Ankle discomfort is seen in medical clinics and on the sidelines of recreational sporting activities. This chapter is meant to familiarize the student of medicine, be it an actual medical student, resident, or practitioner, with the anatomy, diagnostic tools, and some common conditions that affect the foot and ankle.
Local spectra and field distributions on the surfaces of rough nanometer-structured metal films

Recent advances in photon scanning tunneling microscopy made it possible to image with subwavelength resolution near-field intensity distributions of EM fields near rough surfaces irradiated by external light. This technique allows one to study localization and amplification of local fields near such surfaces, which is important for understanding of rough surface enhancement of nonlinear optical processes. We will discuss numerical and experimental studies of the spectral dependence and spatial distribution of local EM fields near the surface of self-affine silver films with nanometer structured roughness. We use the discrete-dipole approximation for numerical simulations and treat a rough surface as a collection of pointlike polarizable dipoles distributed in space according to two different algorithms.
Tune in to KCNQ.

A study finds that the voltage-gated K+ channel KCNQ4 is expressed in a subset of rapidly adapting, low-threshold mechanoreceptors, where it shapes the response profile to dynamic tactile stimuli.
The energy dependence of the 4d photoionization cross-section of In and Sb

Abstract The energy dependence of 4d partial photoionization cross-section for In and Sb has been determined experimentally using the photoemission technique. It exhibits a pronounced Cooper minima and compares favorably with the one-electron Hartree Fock calculation for atomic Xe by Kennedy and Manson.
Sandstone weathering: a century of research and innovation

Abstract A review of sandstone weathering research, particularly in the past 100 years, reveals a trajectory of enquiry from early description and classification of features, to development of process-based explanations, to decreasing scales of investigation, and a disparity between understanding of process(es) and explanations of the genesis of sandstone weathering features. Developments in expositions on mesoscale weathering features on sandstone surfaces are discussed, demonstrating a range of approaches to weathering phenomena—field-based and laboratory-based—that must be linked to provide an explanation of observed features on a landform scale. Throughout the twentieth century, a thematic chronology highlights certain trends in research: description of forms, often in arid and semi-arid environments; single process–form models; an emphasis on experimentation; difficulties in measuring weathering rates; and a persistent emphasis on physical causes of breakdown. A new research agenda is promoted in which biodeterioration and chemical processes gain parity, a holistic approach based on conceptual modeling of weathering systems gains prominence, and scale issues are addressed more rigorously.
Naloxone reduces the neurochemical and behavioral effects of amphetamine but not those of cocaine

The specific opioid receptor antagonist naloxone modifies the effects of amphetamine in a wide variety of behavioral paradigms. Naloxone also attenuates the amphetamine-induced increase in extracellular dopamine in the brain of rats. Therefore, these experiments were designed to replicate the neurochemical and behavioral interactions between naloxone and amphetamine, and to extend these observations to interactions between naloxone and cocaine. Microdialysis was performed on adult male rats of Sprague-Dawley descent. Rats were pretreated with a subcutaneous injection of 5.0 mg/kg naloxone or vehicle, which was followed 30 min later by cumulative doses of subcutaneous d-amphetamine (0.0, 0.1, 0.4, 1.6, 6.4 mg/kg) or intraperitoneal cocaine (0, 3, 10, 30, 56 mg/kg) at 30 min intervals. The microdialysis probes were perfused at a flow rate of 0.6 microliter/min with artificial cerebrospinal fluid. Dialysate samples were collected every 10 min from either the nucleus accumbens or striatum and analyzed for dopamine content by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Locomotor activity (photobeam breaks) was monitored simultaneously with the collection of dialysate samples. Amphetamine and cocaine dose-dependently increased extracellular dopamine in both the nucleus accumbens and striatum. Naloxone pretreatment significantly reduced the amphetamine-induced increase in extracellular dopamine in both brain regions and also attenuated the increase in locomotor activity elicited by amphetamine. Naloxone pretreatment had no effect, however, on the cocaine-induced increase in extracellular dopamine or locomotor activity. These findings suggest that endogenous opioid systems play a role in mediating the neurochemical and behavioral effects of amphetamine, but not those of cocaine.
Fitting direct covariance structures by the MSTRUCT modeling language of the CALIS procedure

This paper demonstrates the usefulness and flexibility of the general structural equation modelling (SEM) approach to fitting direct covariance patterns or structures (as opposed to fitting implied covariance structures from functional relationships among variables). In particular, the MSTRUCT modelling language (or syntax) of the CALIS procedure (SAS/STAT version 9.22 or later: SAS Institute, 2010) is used to illustrate the SEM approach. The MSTRUCT modelling language supports a direct covariance pattern specification of each covariance element. It also supports the input of additional independent and dependent parameters. Model tests, fit statistics, estimates, and their standard errors are then produced under the general SEM framework. By using numerical and computational examples, the following tests of basic covariance patterns are illustrated: sphericity, compound symmetry, and multiple-group covariance patterns. Specification and testing of two complex correlation structures, the circumplex pattern and the composite direct product models with or without composite errors and scales, are also illustrated by the MSTRUCT syntax. It is concluded that the SEM approach offers a general and flexible modelling of direct covariance and correlation patterns. In conjunction with the use of SAS macros, the MSTRUCT syntax provides an easy-to-use interface for specifying and fitting complex covariance and correlation structures, even when the number of variables or parameters becomes large.
Neutral hydrophilic cathode catalyst binders for microbial fuel cells

Improving oxygen reduction in microbial fuel cell (MFC) cathodes requires a better understanding of the effects of the catalyst binder chemistry and properties on performance. A series of polystyrene-b-poly(ethylene oxide) (PS-b-PEO) polymers with systematically varying hydrophilicity were designed to determine the effect of the hydrophilic character of the binder on cathode performance. Increasing the hydrophilicity of the PS-b-PEO binders enhanced the electrochemical response of the cathode and MFC power density by ∼15%, compared to the hydrophobic PS-OH binder. Increased cathode performance was likely a result of greater water uptake by the hydrophilic binder, which would increase the accessible surface area for oxygen reduction. Based on these results and due to the high cost of PS-b-PEO, the performance of an inexpensive hydrophilic neutral polymer, poly(bisphenol A-co-epichlorohydrin) (BAEH), was examined in MFCs and compared to a hydrophilic sulfonated binder (Nafion). MFCs with BAEH-based cathodes with two different Pt loadings initially (after 2 cycles) had lower MFC performance (1360 and 630 mW m−2 for 0.5 and 0.05 mg Pt cm−2) than Nafion cathodes (1980 and 1080 mW m−2 for 0.5 and 0.05 mg Pt cm−2). However, after long-term operation (22 cycles, 40 days), power production of each cell was similar (∼1200 and 700–800 mW m−2 for 0.5 and 0.05 mg Pt cm−2) likely due to cathode biofouling that could not be completely reversed through physical cleaning. While binder chemistry could improve initial electrochemical cathode performance, binder materials had less impact on overall long-term MFC performance. This observation suggests that long-term operation of MFCs will require better methods to avoid cathode biofouling.
Future applications of thorium‐234 in aquatic ecosystems

A fundamental and outstanding issue in marine biogeochemistry is understanding the mechanisms that control and enhance the flux of material from the surface ocean to depth. “Sinking particles” are the ultimate removal mechanism of many biologically and particle reactive elements from the ocean. This includes atmospheric carbon, which is converted from CO2 to particulate phases during biological production and sequestered to deep waters via particle sinking. Unfortunately the temporal and spatial magnitude of the sinking particle flux remains an elusive and difficult process to study.
Ultrastructural and time-lapse studies of primary mesenchyme cell behavior in normal and sulfate-deprived sea urchin embryos.

Abstract The mechanism of primary mesenchyme cell migration in the sea urchin, Lytechinus pictus , was studied in normal embryos and in sulfate-deprived embryos in which primary mesenchyme cells do not migrate. Based on scanning electron microscopy (SEM), cell processes were classified into six morphological types. Time-lapse cinematographic studies showed that two types of cell processes, a short finger-like process and a long process which accounted for 40 and 30% of the cell processes formed, respectively, in normal embryos, functioned as kinetic appendages during cell migration. Although the short finger-like process was formed to some extent in sulfate-deprived embryos, these processes were not able to attach to the ectodermal basal lamina, which is the migratory substratum. The long type of cell process was not observed at all in sulfate-deprived embryos. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) demonstrated that cell processes in normal embryos were associated with 30 nm diameter granules in the basal lamina. Because these granules were absent in sulfate-deprived embryos, it is suggested that a specific component of the basal lamina substratum can be a limiting factor in cell migratory behavior.
Microstructural design of cellular materials—II: Microsandwich foams

The linear elastic behavior of foams is primarily controlled by bending of cell walls. The mechanical performance of foams can be improved by increasing the bending stiffness of the cell walls. Recently, the authors group has developed microsandwich foams in which the cell walls are microsandwich elements. The improved bending stiffness of the walls resulting from the sandwich microstructure increases their performance indices. Here, the authors describe a finite element analysis of the Young`s moduli and Poisson`s ratio of microsandwich foams. They then use the analysis to perform a parametric study of the way in which the performance of the microsandwich foams depends on microstructural parameters. Finally, they compare the results of the analysis with data for three microsandwich foams. The analysis describes the data well.
DSMC Computations for Regions of Shock/Shock and Shock/Boundary Layer Interaction

This paper presents the results of a numerical study of hypersonic interacting flows at flow conditions that include those for which experiments have been conducted in the Calspan-University of Buffalo Research Center (CUBRC) Large Energy National Shock (LENS) tunnel and the ONERA R5Ch low-density wind tunnel. The computations are made with the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method of Bird. The focus is on Mach 9.3 to 11.4 flows about flared axisymmetric configurations, both hollow cylinder flares and double cones. The results presented highlight the sensitivity of the calculations to grid resolution, provide results concerning the conditions for incipient separation, and provide information concerning the flow structure and surface results for the extent of separation, heating, pressure, and skin friction.
The use of an interactive information storage and retrieval system in medical research

This paper presents the results of a study of the use of an interactive computerized storage and retrieval system. A monitor built into the computer system provided usage data for the study. Additional data on user reactions were gathered from a questionnaire. The results show the important role played by frequently chosen laboratory reference leaders in influencing the use of this system. The implications of the study for the design of similar systems are discussed.
The Influence of Ethnicity, Social Class, and Context on Judgments About U.S. Women

In 2 studies, the authors investigated impression formation as influenced by category-based stereotypes associated with ethnicity and social class. The participants in Study I made judgments about 1 target woman, described as interested in running for office in the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) of her children's school. The hypothetical woman was presented to the respondents along with her photograph and information about her ethnic background (Anglo-Saxon, Latina, or Jewish) and occupation (middle class or working class). In Study 2, the authors changed the context and presented a younger target woman (also varied by ethnicity and social class) to the respondents as the new girlfriend of their older brother or cousin. In both studies, judgments were assessed by the participants' responses to 45 bipolar adjectives that, in each case, yielded 8 component factors. In both hypothetical contexts, social class was a powerful trigger for a variety of negative expectations: With respect to ethnicity, the Latina women were judged to be more unsuitable for the job of PTO vice president than were the Anglo-Saxon or Jewish women. The authors discussed potential psychological and social consequences of such category-based judgments.
Variable-Amplitude Galvanostatically Modulated Impedance Spectroscopy as a Tool for Assessing Reactivity at the Corrosion Potential Without Distorting Temporal Evolution of the System

Abstract An algorithm was developed in which galvanostatic regulation of electrochemical impedance measurements is conducted with an amplitude of current perturbation that is adjusted at each frequency to yield a desired variation in potential. Measurements of three previous frequencies are used to estimate the value of the impedance at the target frequency. The algorithm was implemented using a graphically based general interfacing software on a personal computer. Experimental results illustrated artifacts that can arise as a result of galvanostatic measurement with a fixed current amplitude or as a result of potentiostatic measurements for systems with a changing corrosion potential. A demonstration was presented of the use of variable-amplitude galvanostatically modulated impedance spectroscopy to monitor corrosion of copper in synthetic seawater.
High resolution IR diode laser study of collisional energy transfer between highly vibrationally excited monofluorobenzene and CO2: The effect of donor fluorination on strong collision energy transfer

Collisional energy transfer between vibrational ground state CO2 and highly vibrationally excited monofluorobenzene (MFB) was studied using narrow bandwidth (0.0003 cm−1) IR diode laser absorption spectroscopy. Highly vibrationally excited MFB with E′ = ∼41 000 cm−1 was prepared by 248 nm UV excitation followed by rapid radiationless internal conversion to the electronic ground state (S1→S0*). The amount of vibrational energy transferred from hot MFB into rotations and translations of CO2 via collisions was measured by probing the scattered CO2 using the IR diode laser. The absolute state specific energy transfer rate constants and scattering probabilities for single collisions between hot MFB and CO2 were measured and used to determine the energy transfer probability distribution function, P(E,E′), in the large ΔE region. P(E,E′) was then fit to a bi-exponential function and extrapolated to the low ΔE region. P(E,E′) and the biexponential fit data were used to determine the partitioning between weak and strong collisions as well as investigate molecular properties responsible for large collisional energy transfer events. Fermi's Golden rule was used to model the shape of P(E,E′) and identify which donor vibrational motions are primarily responsible for energy transfer. In general, the results suggest that low-frequency MFB vibrational modes are primarily responsible for strong collisions, and govern the shape and magnitude of P(E,E′). Where deviations from this general trend occur, vibrational modes with large negative anharmonicity constants are more efficient energy gateways than modes with similar frequency, while vibrational modes with large positive anharmonicity constants are less efficient at energy transfer than modes of similar frequency.