cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
BiCMOS process integration and device optimization: Basic concepts and new trends

The process integration issues and the aspects of CMOS and bipolar transistor optimization in BiCMOS technology are reviewed in this article. In one section, a sample BiCMOS fabrication process is discussed to provide an entry to the subject for readers who are not familiar with the details and the nomenclature of semiconductor technology. The remainder of the paper deals with questions related to state-of-the-art BiCMOS and addresses new directions in BiCMOS processing. The convergence of the structural requirements for the bipolar and CMOS devices with miniaturization and the modular concepts of current BiCMOS are described and highlighted by various examples. The prospects of BiCMOS in the fast evolving broadband and wireless communications markets are addressed.
The Role of Phagocytosis in the Production of Endogenous Pyrogen by Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes

In 1948 Beeson (3) reported that granulocytes contain an endogenous pyrogen, which was later (4,5) shown to differ from the pyrogenic endotoxin of gram negative bacteria. Considerable work on the pathogenesis of fever by several investigators eventually yielded an experimental model for it (Fig. 1).
IKKα regulates human keratinocyte migration through surveillance of the redox environment.

Although the functions of H2O2 in epidermal wound repair are conserved throughout evolution, the underlying signaling mechanisms are largely unknown. In this study we used human keratinocytes (HEK001) to investigate H2O2-dependent wound repair mechanisms. Scratch wounding led to H2O2 production in two or three cell layers at the wound margin within ∼30 min and subsequent cysteine modification of proteins via sulfenylation. Intriguingly, exogenous H2O2 treatment resulted in preferential sulfenylation of keratinocytes that adopted a migratory phenotype and detached from neighboring cells, suggesting that one of the primary functions of H2O2 is to stimulate signaling factors involved in cell migration. Based on previous findings that revealed epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) involvement in H2O2-dependent cell migration, we analyzed oxidation of a candidate upstream target, the inhibitor of κB kinase α (IKKα; encoded by CHUK), as a mechanism of action. We show that IKKα is sulfenylated at a conserved cysteine residue in the kinase domain, which correlates with de-repression of EGF promoter activity and increased EGF expression. Thus, this indicates that IKKα promotes migration through dynamic interactions with the EGF promoter depending on the redox state within cells.
Risk Stratification for Sudden Cardiac Death: Is It Too Late to Establish a Role for Cardiac MRI?

Automatic detection and transvenous or subcutaneous defibrillation of malignant ventricular arrhythmias by implantable cardioverter defibrillators are vital for management of patients at high risk for sudden cardiac death. Guidelines and appropriate use criteria based on data from several clinical trials support prophylactic defibrillator implantation in patients with symptoms of heart failure and left ventricular ejection fraction ≤35%. Yet, existing guidelines direct defibrillator implantation to a small subset of the overall population at risk for sudden death, and with an average annual appropriate shock rate of 5.1%, many patients that receive an implantable defibrillator never require appropriate therapies and are exposed to device related risks. The recent Defibrillator Implantation in Patients with Non-Ischemic Systolic Heart Failure (DANISH) trial found no mortality benefit with prophylactic defibrillator implantation in patients with symptomatic heart failure and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy. Thus, additional data are necessary to refine patient selection among non-ischemic cardiomyopathy patients that currently meet defibrillator implantation criteria. At the same time, criteria to identify high risk of sudden cardiac death among patients that are currently excluded must evolve. As many as 80% of those who experience out of hospital cardiac arrests would not meet current criteria for primary prevention defibrillator implantation prior to the event. These patients, which generally have preserved or nearly preserved cardiac function, have lower mortality risks competing with sudden cardiac death and stand to derive significant benefit from defibrillator implantation. Currently utilized measures of sudden cardiac death risk, however, are based upon cardiac function rather than identification of the substrate for malignant arrhythmia. The left ventricular ejection fraction is readily quantifiable by echocardiography and has been used as the primary stratification tool in all major trials. But it is highly dependent on loading conditions, and is only an effective predictor of sudden cardiac death in subgroups of patients with direct association between scar extent and cardiac function.
Role of Mass Spectrometry in Clinical Endocrinology

The advent of mass spectrometry into the clinical laboratory has led to an improvement in clinical management of several endocrine diseases. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry found some of its first clinical applications in the diagnosis of inborn errors of metabolism, in quantitative steroid analysis, and in drug analysis laboratories. Mass spectrometry assays offer analytical sensitivity and specificity that is superior to immunoassays for many analytes. This article highlights several areas of clinical endocrinology that have witnessed the use of liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to improve clinical outcomes.
E-cigarettes: Impact of E-Liquid Components and Device Characteristics on Nicotine Exposure.

BACKGROUND Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use has increased substantially in recent years. While e-cigarettes have been proposed as a potentially effective smoking cessation tool, dualuse in smokers is common and e-cigarettes are widely used by non-smokers, including youth and young-adult non-smokers. Nicotine, the primary addictive component in cigarettes, is present at varying levels in many e-liquids. E-cigarettes may lead to initiation of nicotine use in adult and youth non-smokers, re-initiation of nicotine dependence in ex-smokers or increased severity of nicotine dependence in dual-users of cigarettes and e-cigarettes. As such, there are important clinical and policy implications to understanding factors impacting nicotine exposure from e-cigarettes. However, the broad and rapidly changing range of e-liquid constituents and e-cigarette hardware which could impact nicotine exposure presents a challenge. Recent changes in regulatory oversight of e-cigarettes underscore the importance of synthesizing current knowledge on common factors which may impact nicotine exposure. METHODS This review focuses on factors which may impact nicotine exposure by changing e-cigarette use behavior, puff topography, altering the nicotine yield (amount of nicotine exiting the e-cigarette mouth piece including nicotine exhaled as vapor) or more directly by altering nicotine absorption and bioavailability. RESULTS Topics reviewed include e-liquid components or characteristics including flavor additives (e.g., menthol), base e-liquid ingredients (propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin), components commonly used to dissolve flavorants (e.g., ethanol), and resulting properties of the e-liquid (e.g., pH), e-cigarette device characteristics (e.g., wattage, temperature, model) and user behavior (e.g., puff topography) which may impact nicotine exposure. CONCLUSION E-liquid characteristics and components, e-cigarette hardware and settings, and user behavior can all contribute substantially to nicotine exposure from e-cigarettes.
Moon, mud, and cell phones: geographies of race and construction of difference through normalization

How does the meaning of space emerge and get negotiated when individuals of diverse backgrounds interact with each other? Studies reporting that African Americans tend not to spend time in ...
Quantifying Aggressive Riding Behavior of Youth Barrel Racers and Conflict Behaviors of Their Horses

Abstract Research shows that thoroughbred race horses reach top velocity when no whip is used and that increased whip use is not related to variation in velocity or improved finish position. The cloverleaf barrel race is a popular timed event among American youth riders, who are often encouraged to aggressively use both the whip and leg to increase the velocity of the horse. Hence, the purpose of this study was to quantify aggressive riding behaviors among youth riders in a timed cloverleaf barrel race, as well as specific horse behaviors. The first hypothesis stated there is a positive correlation between aggressive rider behaviors and performance time, such that increased aggressive riding would result in increased, and hence slower, run times. The second hypothesis asserted a positive correlation exists between aggressive rider behaviors and horse behaviors. Study participants included 64 horse-and-rider teams competing in a state-level cloverleaf barrel race. This class was chosen because it allows for recording of individual runs of horse-and-rider pairs. Patterns were of the same measured distance, in the same arena, with the same footing conditions. Each horse-and-rider combination was videotaped from the time they approached the gate to the time they dismounted after their run. Three trained observers separately assessed horse and rider behaviors, and frequency of behaviors was recorded using a predetermined ethogram. Interobserver reliability of trained personnel ranged from 0.69 to 0.97. Aggressive riding did not enhance competition time (mean equaled 19.33 ± 1.77 seconds). There was a small but significant positive relationship between mean gate and whip scores (r = 0.25; P P P
Semantic context modulates intelligibility advantage of clear speech in temporally compressed sentences

Sentences produced in a clear speech speaking style are typically more intelligible than sentences produced in a conversational style. However, factors that lead to the intelligibility difference are not fully understood. This study investigated the role of semantic context in intelligibility of temporally compressed clear and conversational speech. Grammatically correct English sentences, which were either semantically meaningful or semantically anomalous, were presented to 70 normal-hearing listeners in clear or conversational speaking style. The sentences were temporally compressed to produce seven different syllabic rates (6-12), matched across clear and conversational sentences to control for the original durational differences between clear and conversational speech. Results for semantically anomalous sentences indicate no differences in the rate of intelligibility decline across compression rates for clear and conversational speech. In contrast, for semantically meaningful sentences, the rate of intelligibility decline was smaller for the semantically meaningful clear-speech sentences over semantically anomalous conversational-speech sentences. At the highest compression rate of 12 syllables per second, intelligibility of semantically meaningful clear-speech sentences (~68% correct) was similar to that of semantically anomalous sentences at 9 syllables per second. These findings suggest that semantic context can modulate the effect of speaking style on the intelligibility of temporally compressed sentences.
Bayesian Metropolis methods for source localization in an urban environment

Abstract We apply Bayesian techniques to determine the location and intensity of a gamma radiation source in an urban environment using count rates taken from a distributed detector network. A simplified model of the radiation transport process is used to construct a statistical model for the detector count rates in the presence of a randomly varying background. Markov Chain Monte Carlo is used to generate samples from the Bayesian posterior density, which can be used to inform search and interdiction efforts. We also present a modification of the traditional Metropolis sampling algorithm that allows us to incorporate fixed parameter uncertainties in building macroscopic cross sections and account for their effects on the posterior distribution. This method is then applied to a test problem based on a real urban geometry with different levels of uncertainty in the building cross sections. The results show that the uncertainty in the estimated source location is modest, even with a large degree of uncertainty in the building cross sections.
NAVIER-STOKES PRESSURE EQUATION ITERATION

Publisher Summary This chapter presents a solution on a CYBER-205 of the discrete Poisson-type pressure equations that arise from mass conservation constraints on fluid velocities in the Navier–Stokes equations. Analysis and numerical studies for these equations reveals that the solution of what might appear at first glance to be a standard problem to be solved with packaged software has many interesting features. There are several efficient algorithms for solving Poisson's equation over a rectangle. Any of these procedures are used as a part of a compound iteration, such as preconditioned conjugate gradients. The chapter discusses column rebalancing of a basic Chebyshev iteration. It presents some of the considerations in designing an efficient solver for a particular vector computer. The pressure equations derived from the mass conservation constraint form an elliptic system with a symmetric positive semi-definite coefficient matrix. Matrix elements vary in an unpredictable manner governed by local fluid flow patterns. In the TEACH method, for numerical solution of the Navier–Stokes equations there is an iteration to consistency of velocities and pressures.
Illustration of Hybrid Synthesis

This automated manufacturing system consists of the following major components: two entries, two exits, five machines, two buffers, four robots, and a two AGV system as shown in Figure 6.1.
The molecular chaperone calnexin is expressed on the surface of immature thymocytes in association with clonotype-independent CD3 complexes.

Abstract Immature thymocytes express clonotype-independent CD3 complexes that, when engaged by anti-CD3 antibodies, can signal CD4-CD8- thymocytes to differentiate into CD4+CD8+ cells. Clonotype-independent CD3 complexes consist of CD3 components associated with an unknown 90 kDa surface protein. We now report the surprising finding that this 90 kDa surface protein is the molecular chaperone calnexin, an integral membrane protein previously thought to reside only in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We found that calnexin-CD3 complexes escaping to the cell surface utilize interchain associations distinct from those utilized by calnexin-CD3 complexes remaining within the ER. Specifically, we demonstrate that carbohydrate-mediated luminal domain interactions that are necessary for formation of most internal calnexin-CD3 complexes destined to be expressed on the cell surface, and we provide evidence that cytoplasmic domain interactions between calnexin and CD3 epsilon chains mask calnexin's ER retention signal, permitting calnexin and associated proteins to escape ER retention. Thus, the present study demonstrates that partial T cell antigen receptor complexes can escape the ER of immature thymocytes in association with their molecular chaperone to be expressed at low levels on the cell surface where they may function as a signaling complex to regulate thymocyte maturation.
Interactive Modeling of Potential Fields in Three Dimensions

The goal of the research is to develop a full space, real time and interactive modeling technique for potential fields in three dimensions. The modeling of potential fields in three dimensions includes three aspects: gravity field computation, physical properties, and geometry model construction. This paper focuses on analysis of the field computation algorithm and geometric model construction.
Radiotherapy of Head and Neck Cancers

Radiation therapy has played principal role in the treatment of head and neck cancer. Treatment capabilities have steadily improved with the improvement in technology and our knowledge regarding the disease and clinical outcomes. In this chapter we will first present an overview radiation therapy in head and neck cancers. We will then present a historical review of radiation therapy of head and neck cancers from three dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) approaches to intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) to image guided radiation therapy (IGRT). Details and important aspects of imaging, both the target and critical organs contouring and treatment planning will be demonstrated with examples. Treatment planning, setup, and organ motion and their impact for sample cases will be compared for 3DCR and IMRT techniques. A brief summary and discussion of future direction will conclude this chapter.
Chapter 30 – Nitric Oxide

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews the formation of NO, novel approaches of its measurements, and its role in the pathobiology and the management of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). NO is now known to play a central role in the physiology and the pathophysiology of many human organ systems. Within the respiratory system, NO promotes vascular and bronchial dilation, is a key mediator of the coordinated beating of ciliated epithelial cells, promotes mucus secretion, and is an important neurotransmitter for nonadrenergic, noncholinergic neurons in the bronchial wall. Additionally, NO is a mediator of inflammatory phenomena within the lung by virtue of its ability to influence the phenotype of inflammatory cells and its contribution to the formation of reactive nitrogen products. The precise inflammatory pathways and cells, NOS enzyme isoforms, and anatomical compartments responsible for production of the NO captured in the expirate are areas of active investigation. There are two interlinked and equally important future areas of NO research: exploring further potential and prevalent sources of NO and its role in different diseases and the use of NO in clinical medicine, including home measurements and routine asthma monitoring.
Equine Bandaging Techniques

Topical medications and bandages play an important role in the management of equine wounds. Certain water-soluble antibacterial ointments (povidone-iodine, polymixin-neosporin-bacitracin) may be appropriate for use on contaminated wounds. A well-designed equine bandage is usually composed of primary, secondary, and tertiary layers. Because so many different products are available, the practitioner is advised to become familiar with the handling characteristics of a few. Because of the irregular contours of the equine limb, only products that stretch and conform should be used. Bandages should be applied snugly and secured in such a fashion that they will not slip or ride up. The horse should be confined to a stall while bandaged, and, even then, bandages must be changed at frequent intervals.
Regression adjustment in completely randomized experiments with a diverging number of covariates

Randomized experiments have become important tools in empirical research. In a completely randomized treatment-control experiment, the simple difference in means of the outcome is unbiased for the average treatment effect, and covariate adjustment can further improve the efficiency without assuming a correctly specified outcome model. In modern applications, experimenters often have access to many covariates, motivating the need for a theory of covariate adjustment under the asymptotic regime with a diverging number of covariates. We study the asymptotic properties of covariate adjustment under the potential outcomes model and propose a bias-corrected estimator that is consistent and asymptotically normal under weaker conditions. Our theory is purely randomization-based without imposing any parametric outcome model assumptions. To prove the theoretical results, we develop novel vector and matrix concentration inequalities for sampling without replacement.
Proton-Coupled Electron Transfer Drives Long-Range Proton Translocation in Bioinspired Systems

Proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) combines the movement of fundamental charged species to form an essential link between electron- and proton-transport reactions in bioenergetics and catalysis in general. The length scale over which proton transport may occur within PCET processes and the thermodynamic consequences of the resulting proton chemical potential to the oxidation reaction driving these PCET processes have not been generally established. Here we report the design of bioinspired molecules that employ oxidation-reduction processes to move reversibly two, three, and four protons via a Grotthuss-type mechanism along hydrogen-bonded networks up to ∼16 A in length. These molecules are composed of benzimidazole moieties linking a phenol to the final proton acceptor, a cyclohexylimine. Following electrochemical oxidation of the phenol, the appearance of an infrared band at 1660 cm-1 signals proton arrival at the terminal basic site. Switching the electrode potential to reducing conditions reverses the proton translocation and resets the structure to the initial species. In addition to mimicking the first step of the iconic PCET process used by the Tyrz-His190 redox relay in photosystem II to oxidize water, this work specifically addresses theoretically and experimentally the length scale over which PCET processes may occur. The thermodynamic findings from these redox-driven, bioinspired "proton wires" have implications for understanding and rationally designing pumps for the generation of proton-motive force in artificial and reengineered photosynthesis, as well as for management of proton activity around catalytic sites, including those for water oxidation and oxygen reduction.
An Adrenaline Rush: Management of Pheochromocytoma in Advanced Heart Failure

Background Pheochromocytoma is a rare neuroendocrine adrenal tumor characterized by overproduction of catecholamines by chromaffin cells. Clinical manifestations include paroxysms of severe hypertension, palpitations, diaphoresis and headaches. Tumor excision is curative but carries an elevated risk, as removal can lead to sudden fluctuations in catecholamine levels, resulting in life threatening arrhythmias, hemodynamic instability and death. We present a case of perioperative management of a pheochromocytoma in a patient with severe ischemic cardiomyopathy. Case A 47 year old man with hypertension presented with progressive dyspnea on exertion. An echocardiogram revealed a newly depressed ejection fraction of 10-15%. Subsequent coronary angiography demonstrated severe multivessel disease deemed not amenable to percutaneous or surgical intervention. Evaluation of his hemodynamics revealed RA12 RV 59/12 PAP 60/33/44 PCWP 25 MVO2 54% CO/CI 3.2/1.69. Routine CT chest and abdomen demonstrated an incidental 6 cm adrenal mass confirmed to be a pheochromocytoma by metaiodobenzylguanidine scan and urine metanephrines. His perioperative care was managed through a multidisciplinary approach with Advanced Heart Failure, Endocrinology, Oncology, and Surgery. Prior to excision, the patient underwent a 14 day load of phenoxybenzamine. A subclavian intra-aortic balloon pump and Swan Ganz catheter were placed preoperatively for continuous hemodynamic monitoring and support. He subsequently underwent laparoscopic removal without complications. His intra-aortic balloon pump was removed two days postoperatively with slow weaning of inotropic and vasoactive support. Phenoxybenzamine was ultimately discontinued, and he was initiated on goal directed neurohormonal blockade. He was discharged with close outpatient follow up. Discussion This case demonstrates successful management of a pheochromocytoma in a patient with ischemic cardiomyopathy in a decompensated low flow state utilizing preoperative mechanical circulatory support. Successful adrenalectomy was supported by an intra-aortic balloon pump and pre-treatment with alpha-blockade. Pertinent challenges in such cases include timing of surgery and use of temporary support devices. Previous data has been inconclusive regarding timing of excision and perioperative use of percutaneous circulatory support due to risks of anticoagulation. Our case highlights the use of this strategy in select high risk patients.
Synthesis of [18F]trifluoromethylaryl labeling synthons from boronic acids and [18F]fluoroform produced in gas phase

1057 Objectives: The trifluoromethyl (CF3) group is useful for modulating the physical, chemical, and biological properties of drug-like molecules [1], including radiotracers for use with positron emission tomography (PET). Aryl trifluoromethyl groups are also gaining interest as sites for labeling with carbon-11 [2] or fluorine-18 [3]. Here we show the utility of arylboronic acids with [18F]fluoroform produced in the gas phase for directly preparing [18F]trifluoromethylaryl labeling synthons that can be useful for producing radiotracers for PET. Methods: [18F]Fluoromethane was prepared in the gas phase from cyclotron-produced [18F]fluoride ion in a two-step process, as previously described [2]. Under dry nitrogen atmosphere, t-BuOK (50 µL, 0.3 M in DMF) was added to CuBr (0.07 mg, 5 µmol) and capped. [18F]Fluoroform (37-185 MBq) in DMF (100-300 µL) was added to the freshly prepared Cu complex and stabilized with Et3N.3HF (1.64% v/v in DMF; 50 µL) for 1 min. An arylboronic acid precursor (7-10 mg, 50 µmol) in DMF (50 µL) was then added to the [18F]CuCF3 solution and purged with air (10 mL). The reaction was left to proceed at room temperature (20−26oC) for 10 min and then quenched with 0.1% TFA-MeCN (1:1 v/v) solution. The reaction mixture was filtered and the filtrate was analyzed with HPLC. Results: [18F]Fluoroform was produced in ~ 45% yield from [18F]fluoride ion and with high purity (> 95%). [18F]4-Trifluoromethyl benzaldehyde ([18F]1) was obtained in quantitative yield. All [18F]trifluoromethyl phenol isomers ([18F]2−4) were also obtained in high yield (> 95%). The ortho ([18F]5) and para ([18F]6) bromomethyl derivatives of [18F]benzotrifluoride were obtained in moderate yields ([18F]5 = 35%; [18F]6 = 50%). Conclusions: Labeling synthons were readily prepared in a single step from boronic acids and [18F]fluoroform in mostly very high yields, showing the tolerance of this reaction for other functional groups. The boronic acid substrate scope for the synthesis of other labeling syntions is being further rexplored. Acknowledgement: The Intramural Research Program of NIH (NIMH). References: [1] Schlosser M, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2006: 45, 5432. [2] Haskali MB, Pike VW, Chem. Eur. J. 2017: 23, 815. [3] Yang BY, Haskali MB, Telu S, et al., J. Label. Compd. Radiopharm. 2017: 60 (Suppl. 1): S263.
A cadaveric analysis of anatomical variations of the anterior belly of the digastric muscle

Background: The anterior belly of the digastric muscle (ABDM) presents highly variable and frequent anatomical variations. Since the ABDM functions as a landmark for clinical procedures involving the submental region, it is important to have a comprehensive understanding of its variations. In this study, we sought to improve our knowledge of ABDM variations in the ethnically diverse whole-body donor population in Northern California. Specific aims were: (1) to determine the frequency of ABDM and anterior belly (AB) accessory muscle variations in cadavers donated to the UC Davis Body Donation Programme, (2) to classify these variations identified in this population using the previously proposed nomenclatures by Yamada (1935) and Zlabek (1933), and (3) to investigate the innervation and arterial supply to the representative ABDM and AB accessory muscle variations. Materials and methods: During the 2018 and 2019 gross anatomy dissection laboratories at the UC Davis School of Medicine, the submental regions of 48 cadavers were examined and classified. Results: Fifteen (31.2%) cadavers presented ABDM and AB accessory muscle variations. These variations were clearly categorised using the morphology of the ABDMs and attachments of the AB accessory muscles. We also identified three previously unreported types of variations, two of which presented the fusion of right and left ABDMs and one presenting an ectopic tubercle beneath the mandibular symphysis to which a pair of AB accessory muscles were attached. Conclusions: Anterior belly of the digastric muscle variations were found in 1 in 3 individuals in the local Northern California population. Knowledge of the prevalence and common patterns of ABDM variations in the general population would be valuable information when an operation or examination is performed in the submental region.
Virtual Reality: Cyber Charter Schools And The Need For Reform

Pennsylvania needs to reform its system for funding cyber charter schools. The fourteen cyber charters draw students and tuition dollars from nearly every public school district across the state, but those districts have no say in authorizing or overseeing cyber charters. Though the cybers are a financial drain on the districts, they are money makers for their operators due to weaknesses in the Charter School Law. First, the Charter School Law (CSL) directs the districts to remit the exact same per pupil funding to a cyber charter as they do to a bricks and mortar charter, even though the costs of running a cyber are much lower. Second, the per pupil payment a district must provide to the charter is based on the per pupil spending of that sending district, not on the charter’s cost to educate the student. Finally, cybers, like all charters, receive much higher payments for students with special education needs, but cybers, like all charters, have no obligation to spend that extra money on special education. The CLS should be revised to account for the true costs of operating cyber charter schools and to provide for a voice for districts in the oversight and accountability of these programs.
Subfascial-located contraceptive devices requiring surgical removal.

Subdermal etonogestrel implants are highly effective contraceptive methods. Despite standardization of insertion technique by the manufacturer, some implants are inadvertently placed too deeply within or below the plane of the biceps brachii fascia. Placement of these implants in a deep tissue plane results in more difficult removal, which is not always possible in the office setting. In rare cases, surgical removal by an upper extremity surgeon is warranted. Here we present 6 cases of etonogestrel implants located in a subfascial plane requiring removal by an upper extremity surgeon. Implants were all localized with plain radiography and ultrasound prior to surgical removal. All cases had implants located in the subfascial plane and one was identified intramuscularly. The average age was 28 years (19–33) and BMI was 24.0 kg/m^2 (19.1–36.5), with the most common reason for removal being irregular bleeding. The majority of cases (5/6) were performed under monitored anesthesia care with local anesthetic and one case utilized regional anesthesia. All implants were surgically removed without complication. Insertion of etonogestrel contraceptive implants deep to the biceps brachii fascia is a rare, but dangerous complication. Removal of these implants is not always successful in the office setting and referral to an upper extremity surgeon is necessary to avoid damage to delicate neurovascular structures for safe removal.
Colorectal surgery in Parkinson's disease--outcomes and predictors of mortality.

Although diseases of the lower gastrointestinal tract are common in patients with Parkinson’s disease, there is a paucity of data regarding postoperative outcomes after colorectal surgery. The Nationwide Inpatient Sample database (2007–2011) was utilized to analyze outcomes in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) undergoing colorectal surgery. Main outcomes were risk-adjusted inpatient morbidity, mortality, hospital charge, and length of hospital stay. A total of 6490 patients were identified. Utilization of laparoscopic surgery in Parkinson’s patients has progressively increased in frequency over the latest 5 years analyzed. The most common diagnoses were colorectal malignancy (39 %) and intestinal obstruction (20 %). Right hemicolectomy (37 %) and sigmoidectomy (30 %) were the most common operations. Laparoscopy was used in 18 % of Parkinson’s patients and most commonly in the elective setting. 54.3 % of Parkinson’s patients had emergency surgery compared to 38.6 % in non-Parkinson’s. Overall morbidity and mortality were significantly lower after laparoscopic surgery compared to open (20 vs. 25 % and 2.1 vs. 6.6 %, respectively). Length of stay was significantly shorter (OR −1.86; p < 0.01) for laparoscopic operations, but there were no significant differences in risk-adjusted outcomes between laparoscopic and open groups. PD patients have high rates of morbidity and mortality after colorectal surgery; this may be because more than half of all patients in this population undergo emergent surgery. The laparoscopic approach appears to have short-term benefits in this patient population.
Island Goes Dark: Transparency, Fragmentation, Liquidity Externalities, and Multimarket Regulation

In response to a regulatory enforcement, the Island electronic communications network recently stopped displaying its limit order book in the three most active exchange-traded funds (ETFs). As a result of this reduction in pre-trade transparency, this dominant venue's share of trading activity and price discovery falls, fragmenting the market. ETF prices adjust more slowly when Island goes dark, and substantial price discovery moves from the ETF market to the futures market. Island's effective and realized spreads increase, while effective and realized spreads fall in other markets. The increase in spreads on Island more than offsets the reduction in trading costs in other markets, increasing overall trading costs. Overall ETF market quality falls.
Aquaculture--A Gateway for Exotic Species

Aquaculture is a fast-growing segment of the world food economy and a leading vector of aquatic invasive species in the United States and abroad. Surprisingly, little national or international oversight exists even for deliberate introductions of exotic species in aquaculture. The authors of this Policy Forum propose a policy agenda on exotic introductions as aquaculture expands that includes scientific risk assessment for all nonnative introductions and single-agency oversight for the prevention, containment, and monitoring of ecologically harmful species.
NON-INERTIAL EFFECTS IN REACTIONS OF ASTROPHYSICAL INTEREST

We discuss the effects of non-inertial motion in reactions occurring in laboratory, stars, and elsewhere. It is demonstrated that non-inertial effects due to large accelerations during nuclear collisions might have appreciable effects nuclear and atomic transitions. We also explore the magnitude of the corrections induced by strong gravitational fields on nuclear reactions in massive, compact stars, and the neighborhood of black holes.
A rapid PCR-based hybridization assay for the detection of Listeria monocytogenes in channel catfish

Abstract Listeria monocytogenes is a potential pathogen commonly isolated from processed channel catfish and other food sources. Channel catfish isolates, type strains of L. monocytogenes and other Listeria species were evaluated by PCR using specific primers for the invasive-associated protein (iap) gene of L. monocytogenes . The iap primers amplified a 131 bp DNA fragment from all catfish isolates (1/15), ATCC serotypes 1, 2, 3, 4a, 4b, 4d, 4e, the wild type EGD strain and the non-hemolytic strain (ATCC 15313) of L. monocytogenes and L. welshimeri . The 131-bp product was not found in amplified DNA profiles of ATCC serotype 4c of L. monocytogenes in L. grayi, L. innocua, L. ivanovii, L. seeligeri, L. murrayi , or in Staphylococcus aureus or Aeromonoas hydrophila . Furthermore, a PCR-based hybridization assay with a DNA probe specific for the internal of the 131-bp iap was able to differentiate L. monocytogenes from L. welshimeri and A. hydrophila, E. coli, P. aeroginosa, S. aureus in experimentally contaminated catfish fillets. The PCR-based hybridization assay is sensitive enough to detect 1-2 cfu of L. monocytogenes per gram of catfish fillet.
VSP fracture imaging with elastic reverse-time migration

Summary Much of the effort to date on fracture detection and characterization has focused on methods based on an equivalent anisotropy descriptions of the fractured rock mass. However, with the growing use of downhole receiver arrays and higher frequency sources, new prospects may emerge for imaging discrete fractures and fractured zones. This paper examines the seismic signatures of an open, fluid-filled fracture numerically, and outlines an approach for elastic, prestack reverse-time migration of VSP data for imaging fractures. The results of this study highlight the importance of incorporating fracture-generated converted waves into the imaging method, and presents an alternate imaging condition that can be used in elastic reverse-time migration when a direct wave is recorded (e.g., crosswell and VSP acquisition geometries).
Dependence of base crowding effect on base doping and thickness for Npn AlGaAs/GaAs HBTs

The dependence of the base current crowding effect on base doping level and thickness in Npn AlGaAs/GaAs heterojunction bipolar transistors is examined. In contrast to the intuitive view that the base current crowding effect should decrease when the base resistivity is reduced by either/or both increasing base doping level or thickness, it is demonstrated that the base current crowding effect actually becomes more severe. The physical cause for this phenomenon is described. The effective emitter width as a function of device geometry for various base doping levels and thicknesses is also calculated.
Aspects of Experimental Errors and Data Reduction Schemes From Spherical Indentation of Isotropic Materials

Sensitivity to experimental errors determines the reliability and usefulness of any experimental investigation. Thus, it is important to understand how various test techniques are affected by expected experimental errors. Here, a semi-analytical method based on the concept of condition number is explored for systematic investigation of the sensitivity of spherical indentation to experimental errors. The method is employed to investigate the reliability of various possible spherical indentation protocols, providing a ranking of the selected data reduction protocols from least to most sensitive to experimental errors. Explicit Monte Carlo sensitivity analysis is employed to provide further insight of selected protocol, supporting the ranking. The results suggest that the proposed method for estimating the sensitivity to experimental errors is a useful tool. Moreover, in the case of spherical indentation, the experimental errors must be very small to give reliable material properties.
Anxiety sensitivity and the anxiety disorders: A meta-analytic review and synthesis.

There has been significant interest in the role of anxiety sensitivity (AS) in the anxiety disorders. In this meta-analysis, we empirically evaluate differences in AS between anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and nonclinical controls. A total of 38 published studies (N = 20,146) were included in the analysis. The results yielded a large effect size indicating greater AS among anxiety disorder patients versus nonclinical controls (d = 1.61). However, this effect was maintained only for panic disorder patients compared to mood disorder patients (d = 0.85). Panic disorder was also associated with greater AS compared to other anxiety disorders except for posttraumatic stress disorder (d = 0.04). Otherwise the anxiety disorders generally did not differ from each other in AS. Although these findings suggest that AS is central to the phenomenology of panic disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder, causal inferences regarding the role of AS in these anxiety disorders cannot be made. Moderator analyses showed that a greater proportion of female participants was associated with larger differences in AS between anxiety and nonclinical control groups. However, more female participants were associated with a smaller AS difference between anxiety and mood disorder groups. This finding suggests that AS is less robust in distinguishing anxiety from mood disorders among women. Age also moderated some observed effects such that AS was more strongly associated with anxiety disorders in adults compared to children. Type of AS measure used also moderated some effects. Implications of these findings for the conceptualization of AS in anxiety-related disorders are discussed.
Higher Education and Religious Liberalization among Young Adults

Going to college has long been assumed to liberalize students' religious beliefs. Using longitudinal data from the National Study of Youth and Religion, we compare change in the content of religious beliefs of those who do and do not attend college. We find that, in general, college students are no more likely to develop liberal religious beliefs than non-students. In some cases, collegians actually appear more likely to retain their initial beliefs. Change in religious beliefs appears instead to be more strongly associated with network effects. These findings indicate that college's effect on students' religious beliefs is both weak and fragmented, and suggest that the multiplicity of social worlds on college campuses may help to sustain religious beliefs as well as religious practice and commitment.
Q-Switched Semiconductor Diode Lasers With Integrated Modulators

Q-switched semiconductor diode lasers with an integrated modulator have been operated with full on/off modulation at rates of 3 GHz. In addition, modulation of the lasers has been shown up to a detector-limited frequency of 6 GHz. A new model of these devices, which includes amplified spontaneous emission and high gain, predicts the possibility of a new mode of Q-switched operation with the capacity for repetition rates of tens of gigahertz and binary pulse position modulation at rates of the order of 10 Gbit/sec.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Effects of ozone on airway epithelial permeability and ion transport

Hartley guinea pigs had a 3-h sham exposure or a 3-h exposure to 1.0 ppm ozone. Within 2 h tracheas were excised and mounted in conventional Ussing chambers. Potential difference (PD), short circuit current (Isc), conductance (G) and unidirectional fluxes of 22Na, 36Cl and [14C]mannitol were measured in blinded experiments. Compared to the tracheal epithelia of sham-exposed animals, those from exposed animals had a larger PD (45%), an increased Isc (41%) and no change in G. In both groups, the Isc was approximately equivalent to net sodium absorption. The higher current in the exposed animal's tissues was disproportionately more sensitive to inhibition by the specific sodium channel blocker amiloride (44% vs. 13%). These observations suggest that early consequences of exposure of airway epithelium to ozone include increases in the density or open time of sodium channels in the luminal cell membrane or a change in sodium pump activity that increases the gradient for sodium entry across the luminal cell membrane. By 24 h after exposure these changes had been obscured by an increase in epithelial permeability, perhaps as the result of an inflammatory response to the ozone exposure.
Non-linear oscillator models in bluff body aero-elasticity

Abstract A critique of non-linear oscillator models is offered and a systematic and self-consistent procedure for constructing such a model is proposed based upon theoretical and experimental fluid mechanical information. Numerical studies are conducted for the proposed model as well as for the earlier one of Skop and Griffin. A comparison with Jones' experimental results is also made.
Endoscopic Placement of a Novel Feeding Tube

Background Complications of blind feeding tube (FT) placement include pneumothorax, pneumonia, empyema, and death. A safe and effective method of FT placement is desired. The Davis FT is a novel device that detachably couples to an ultrathin transnasal gastroscope. The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Davis FT placement. Methods Fifty consecutive patients requiring transpyloric enteral tube feeding underwent placement of the Davis FT. Placement efficacy was evaluated with postplacement radiographs. Patient demographics, route of tube placement, use of sedation, and complications were abstracted. Results The Davis FT was placed successfully in 50 patients. The mean age of the cohort was 52 (± 18) years. Sixty-two percent (31/50) were men. The success rate of nonpulmonary placement was 100% (50/50), and the postpyloric success rate was 96% (48/50). IV sedation was used in 72% (36/50) of placements. Eighty-six percent (43/50) of tubes were placed transnasally. The majority (62%) of esophagogastroduodenoscopies and Davis FT placements was performed by a pulmonologist. Forty-four percent (22/50) of patients had an endotracheal tube, 20% (10/50) had a tracheotomy, and 36% (18/50) had no breathing tube at the time of Davis FT placement. There were no complications. Conclusions Transpyloric placement of the Davis FT is safe (100%) and effective (96%). The tube can be placed transorally or transnasally with or without sedation. The data suggest that postplacement radiographs are not necessary to confirm placement. Pulmonologists were successful in performing EGD and Davis FT placement.
Cytochemical localization of cyclic 3', 5'-nucleotide phosphodiesterase activity in the neuromuscular junction and skeletal muscle of the newt.

Summary The localization of cyclic 3′,5′-nucleotide phosphodiesterase activity at the neuromuscular junction and in skeletal muscle of the newt was studied cytochemically. In the axon terminal, activity was localized to a site on the membranes of synaptic vesicles. In skeletal muscle, activity occurred in the sarcoplasmic reticulum but was restricted to the longitudinal tubules. Junctional folds of the motor end plate were unreactive. These findings are suggestive of a role of cyclic AMP in the functions of synaptic vesicles and sarcoplasmic reticulum and indicate its effects are terminated at these sites.
Oculomotor synkinesis following a midbrain stroke.

Article abstract— A 33-year-old man developed a complete third nerve palsy in the setting of acute bacterial endocarditis. MRI revealed an ischemic stroke in the cerebral peduncle involving the third nerve fascicle. Subsequently, he was observed to have paradoxic elevation of the eyelid on adduction and downgaze. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first demonstration of oculomotor synkinesis after an acquired, ischemic CNS lesion.
The impact of conducted energy devices and other types of force and resistance on officer and suspect injuries

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of police use of conducted energy devices (CEDs) on officer and suspect injuries while controlling for other types of force and resistance and other factors.Design/methodology/approach – Data on 1,645 use‐of‐force incidents occurring between January 1, 2002 and July 2006 were obtained from two different law enforcement agencies. Logistic and generalized ordered logistic regressions are used to model the odds of injury and severity of injury.Findings – The use of CEDs was associated with reduced odds of officer and suspect injury and the severity of suspect injury in one agency. In the other agency CED use was unrelated to the odds of injury; however, the use of pepper spray was associated with reduced odds of suspect injury. Among other findings, in both agencies the use of hands‐on tactics by police was associated with increased odds of officer and suspect injury, while the use of canines was associated with increased odds of suspect injury.Res...