cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influence of Neighborhood Environment on Physical Activity Participation among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Despite the positive influence of environmental factors on physical activity (PA) levels of children, further investigation is necessary when considering the unique characteristics of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between neighborhood environment factors and PA among children with ASD by examining the extent to which (a) the built environment, (b) neighborhood safety, and (c) neighborhood support contributes to PA. A secondary data analysis using the 2016 and 2017 combined dataset of the National Survey of Children's Health was used. The total sample included 14,944 children between the ages of 6-17 years; of this, a sample of 494 children had a parent-reported diagnosis of ASD. Multivariate logistic regressions were conducted to explore the unique influences of the above three neighborhood environment factors on PA engagement. Among children with and without ASD, an association was found between feeling safe and engaging in PA, that is, the odds of engaging in PA are greater among children who were safe in their neighborhoods than children who were not in safe neighborhoods. Surprisingly, other neighborhood factors do not have a significant relationship with PA participation among children with ASD at this time. Future studies should consider how to incorporate the support of others and feeling of safety into the neighborhood along with how to improve accessibility of the built environment in order to increase PA for children with ASD. LAY SUMMARY: The results of this study showed that neighborhood factors influence physical activity (PA) among children with ASD differently compared to their peers without ASD. Children with ASD who live in safe neighborhoods are more likely to engage in PA, while other neighborhood factors, such as playgrounds and support, are not associated with an increased likelihood of engaging in PA at this time. Efforts should be made to improve neighborhood accessibility and design in order to increase PA among children with ASD.
Single-cell RNA sequencing of equine mesenchymal stromal cells from primary donor-matched tissue sources reveals functional heterogeneity in immune modulation and cell motility

The efficacy of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) therapy is thought to depend on the intrinsic heterogeneity of MSC cultures isolated from different tissue sources as well as individual MSCs isolated from the same tissue source, neither of which is well understood. To study this, we used MSC cultures isolated from horses. The horse is recognized as a physiologically relevant large animal model appropriate for translational MSC studies. Moreover, due to its large size the horse allows for the simultaneous collection of adequate samples from multiple tissues of the same animal, and thus, for the unique collection of donor matched MSC cultures from different sources. The latter is much more challenging in mice and humans due to body size and ethical constraints, respectively. In the present study, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on primary equine MSCs that were collected from three donor-matched tissue sources; adipose tissue (AT), bone marrow (BM), and peripheral blood (PB). Based on transcriptional differences detected with scRNA-seq, we performed functional experiments to examine motility and immune regulatory function in distinct MSC populations. We observed both inter- and intra-source heterogeneity across the three sources of equine MSCs. Functional experiments demonstrated that transcriptional differences correspond with phenotypic variance in cellular motility and immune regulatory function. Specifically, we found that (i) differential expression of junctional adhesion molecule 2 (JAM2) between MSC cultures from the three donor-matched tissue sources translated into altered cell motility of BM-derived MSCs when RNA interference was used to knock down this gene, and (ii) differences in C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 6 (CXCL6) expression in clonal MSC lines derived from the same tissue source correlated with the chemoattractive capacity of PB-derived MSCs. Ultimately, these findings will enhance our understanding of MSC heterogeneity and will lead to improvements in the therapeutic potential of MSCs, accelerating the transition from bench to bedside.
Analysis of Spirulina platensis microalgal fuel cell

Abstract Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are emerging as a potential solution for generating renewable power. MFCs can produce electricity while simultaneously treating wastewater, powering a biosensor, or in the case of algae, during photosynthesis. In this study, a unique configuration of Spirulina platensis based microalgal fuel cell (MAFC) that allows utilizing O2 generated via algal photosynthesis in the anode compartment diffusing to the cathode compartment where both anode and cathode were submerged (targeting fuel cell operation in an oxygen-limited environment) was tested for 21 days, the duration of the growth curve. The results showed the highest performance in an individual fuel cell on day seven during the exponential growth phase, with an open-circuit voltage of 227.7 ± 0.08 mV. The highest power density was obtained when three fuel cells were connected in parallel, at 59.8 ± 7.9 mW/cm2. Using electrochemical impedance analysis (EIS), showed that the biofilm growth on the anode increased the charge transfer resistance in the nine days measured and the equivalent circuitry of the fuel cell most closely resembled a Randles circuit. Studies revealed that it is possible to run a photosynthetic fuel cell continuously in an oxygen-free environment by using self-generated oxygen, providing comparable power to other microbial fuel cells.
In Vitro Analysis of the Antioxidant and Antiviral Activity of Embelin against Herpes Simplex Virus-1.

Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) causes a wide range of infections from mild to life-threatening in the human population. There are effective treatments for HSV-1 infections that are limited due HSV-1 latency and development of resistance to current therapeutics. The goal of this study was to investigate the antioxidant and antiviral effects of embelin on HSV-1 in cultured Vero cells. Oxidative stress was verified by an extensive production of a reactive oxygen species (ROS) H2O2. Vero cells were infected with a recombinant strain of HSV-1 and antiviral assays, time course attachment, penetration, and post penetration assays, confocal microscopy, qPCR, and antioxidant assays were conducted. Our results lead to the conclusion that embelin is noncytotoxic at concentrations tested ranging from 20 to 70 µM. Treatment of HSV-1 virions with embelin resulted in 98.7–100% inhibition and affected the early stage of HSV-1 infection of Vero cells, by inhibiting the attachment and penetration of HSV-1 virions to host cells. Treatment of virions with concentrations of embelin ranging from 35 to 60 µM significantly reduced the production of H2O2. In conclusion, embelin reduces oxidative damage caused by HSV-1 infection and is an effective antiviral to reduce the infection of HSV-1 in cultured Vero cells. Further studies are needed to explore the possibility of embelin as a medicinal agent.
Across-task relations among monitoring judgments: Differential effects of item feedback on monitoring bias during reading

Abstract Using a practice testing paradigm, this study examined the effects of item feedback on learners' metacomprehension and monitoring judgments before, during, and after comprehension testing. Participants (N = 294) were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: a feedback, no feedback, and control condition. Participants completed an assessment of prior knowledge, read a 1000-word science text, and completed a measure of reading strategies. They also provided metacomprehension, item-level, and postdictive judgments of performance across comprehension testing. Measures of bias were calculated for each set of judgments. Results indicated that correctness feedback engendered less bias in learners' metacomprehension judgments but greater bias in item-level and postdictive judgments. Conditional and serial indirect effects were significant for those in the feedback condition. Findings provide evidence of positive but also differentiated effects of item feedback on students' monitoring bias. Unguided feedback may induce metacognitive bias during and after testing experiences in the context of text learning.
Shisa7 phosphorylation regulates GABAergic transmission and neurodevelopmental behaviors

Abstract GABA-A receptors (GABAARs) are crucial for development and regulation of the central nervous system. Altered GABAergic signaling is hypothesized to be involved in the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. Nevertheless, how aberrant cellular and molecular mechanisms affect GABAARs in these diseases remain elusive. Recently, we identified Shisa7 as a GABAAR auxiliary subunit that modulates GABAAR trafficking, kinetics, and pharmacology, and discovered a phosphorylation site in Shisa7 (S405) critical for extrasynaptic α5-GABAAR trafficking and tonic inhibition. However, the role of S405 phosphorylation in the regulation of synaptic inhibition, plasticity, and behavior remains unknown. Here, we found that expression of a phospho-null mutant (Shisa7 S405A) in heterologous cells and neurons diminishes α2-GABAAR trafficking. Subsequently, we generate a Shisa7 S405A knock-in (KI) mouse line that displays reduced surface expression of GABAARs in hippocampal neurons. Importantly, both synaptic and tonic inhibition are decreased in KI mice. Moreover, chemically induced inhibitory long-term potentiation is impaired, highlighting a critical role of Shisa7 S405 in GABAergic plasticity. Lastly, KI mice exhibit enhanced locomotor activity and grooming associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. Collectively, our study reveals a phosphorylation site critical for Shisa7-dependent trafficking of synaptic and extrasynaptic GABAARs which contributes to behavioral endophenotypes displayed in neurodevelopmental disorders.
Our Preferred Technique for Bone–Patellar Tendon–Bone Allograft Preparation

Abstract Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is an increasingly common procedure as orthopaedic patients seek to remain active longer in life, resulting in more ligamentous knee injuries. Graft selection is at the forefront of decision making in knee reconstruction, with advantages and disadvantages to various grafts, including allograft to autograft. Although the gold standard for the ACL reconstruction of elite athletes and highly active patients has traditionally been bone–patellar tendon–bone autograft (BTB), this graft is not without its disadvantages, such as increased operative time, increased postoperative pain, potential for anterior knee pain, larger incision, violation of the extensor mechanism, and potentially kneeling pain. Soft tissue autografts (hamstring, quadriceps) offer a good alternative; however, they may be associated with higher rerupture rates, as well as associated donor site morbidity. Additionally, soft tissue allografts have a higher graft rupture rate. For this reason, it is the senior author’s preference to perform allograft ACL reconstruction with BTB allograft in appropriately selected patients. We describe our technique for an efficient and reproducible BTB allograft preparation.
Common Method Bias in PLS-SEM: A Full Collinearity Assessment Approach

The author discusses common method bias in the context of structural equation modeling employing the partial least squares method PLS-SEM. Two datasets were created through a Monte Carlo simulation to illustrate the discussion: one contaminated by common method bias, and the other not contaminated. A practical approach is presented for the identification of common method bias based on variance inflation factors generated via a full collinearity test. The author's discussion builds on an illustrative model in the field of e-collaboration, with outputs generated by the software WarpPLS. They demonstrate that the full collinearity test is successful in the identification of common method bias with a model that nevertheless passes standard convergent and discriminant validity assessment criteria based on a confirmation factor analysis.
Optimizing the placement of Internet TAPs in wireless neighborhood networks

Efficient integration of a multi-hop wireless network with the Internet is an important research problem. In a wireless neighborhood network, a few Internet transit access points (ITAPs), serving as gateways to the Internet, are deployed across the neighborhood; houses are equipped with low-cost antennas, and form a multi-hop wireless network among themselves to cooperatively route traffic to the Internet through the ITAPs. Furthermore, the placement of Internet TAPs is a critical determinant of system performance and resource usage. We explore the placement problem under three wireless link models. For each link model, we develop algorithms to make informed placement decisions based on neighborhood layouts, user demands, and wireless link characteristics. We also extend our algorithms to provide fault tolerance and handle significant workload variation. We evaluate our placement algorithms and show that our algorithms yield close to optimal solutions over a wide range of scenarios we have considered.
The use of intraoperative ultrasound in laparoscopic adrenal surgery: The Saint Vincent experience

Background: Laparoscopic adrenalectomy has been shown to be a safe and effective therapy for benign adrenal lesions. We review our experience with this procedure, including the use of laparoscopic ultrasound. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our experience with 36 patients who underwent resection of 42 adrenal glands. Data gathered included preoperative evaluation and diagnosis, operative time, blood loss, complications, and follow-up status. Laparoscopic ultrasound was used to guide dissection and characterize a variety of adrenal lesions. Results: Thirty-five of 36 patients underwent successful laparoscopic adrenalectomy. There was one conversion to the open procedure in a patient with bilateral adrenal metastases from an endometrial cancer. For the bilateral laparoscopic procedure, the operative time averaged 262 mins, blood loss was 160 cc, and hospital stay was 3.0 days. For unilateral cases, operative time averaged 193 min, blood loss was 108 cc, and hospitalization was 1.1 days. Six patients experienced perioperative complications, most of which were minor and transient. Laparoscopic ultrasound was useful to define anatomy and to identify the adrenal vein, especially on the left side. Conclusions: Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the procedure of choice for benign adrenal disease. Laparoscopic ultrasound is useful to localize and aid in the dissection of the left adrenal vein.
Chronic ethanol (EtOH) consumption differentially alters gray and white matter EtOH methyl ¹H magnetic resonance intensity in the primate brain.

Background In vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) has previously been used to directly monitor brain ethanol (EtOH). It has been proposed that the EtOH methyl 1H resonance intensity is larger in EtOH-tolerant individuals than in sensitive individuals. To characterize the relationship between long-term EtOH exposure and the brain EtOH MRS intensity, we present data from a longitudinal experiment conducted using nonhuman primate subjects. Methods In vivo MRS was used to measure the gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) EtOH methyl 1H MRS intensity in 18 adult male rhesus macaques at 4 time points throughout the course of a chronic drinking experiment. Time points were prior to EtOH drinking, following a 3-month EtOH induction procedure, and following 6, and 12 subsequent months of 22 h/d of “open access” to EtOH (4% w/v) and water. Results The EtOH methyl 1H MRS intensity, which we observed to be independent of age over the range examined, increased with chronic EtOH exposure in GM and WM. In GM, MRS intensity increased from naive level following the EtOH induction period (90 g/kg cumulative EtOH intake). In WM, MRS intensity was not significantly different from the EtOH-naive state until after 6 months of 22-hour free access (110 to 850 g/kg cumulative intake range). The WM MRS intensity in the EtOH-naive state was positively correlated with future drinking, and the increase in WM MRS intensity was negatively correlated with the amount of EtOH consumed throughout the experiment. Conclusions Chronic exposure to EtOH is associated with brain changes that result in differential increases in EtOH MRS intensity in GM and WM. The EtOH-naive WM MRS intensity pattern is consistent with its previously proposed relationship to innate tolerance to the intoxicating effects of EtOH. EtOH-dependent MRS intensity changes in GM required less EtOH exposure than was necessary to produce changes in WM. Within WM, an unexpected, potentially age dependent, enhanced sensitivity to EtOH in light drinkers relative to heavy drinkers was observed.
Ammonia Gas Sensing Behavior of Tanninsulfonic Acid Doped Polyaniline-TiO2 Composite

A highly active tannin doped polyaniline-TiO2 composite ammonia gas sensor was developed and the mechanism behind the gas sensing activity was reported for the first time. A tanninsulfonic acid doped polyaniline (TANIPANI)-titanium dioxide nanocomposite was synthesized by an in situ polymerization of aniline in the presence of tanninsulfonic acid and titanium dioxide nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis were utilized to determine the incorporation of TiO2 in TANIPANI matrix. UV-Visible and infrared spectroscopy studies provided information about the electronic interactions among tannin, polyaniline, and TiO2. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) along with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) surface analysis techniques were used to investigate the metal oxide dispersions inside polyaniline matrix. Gas sensors were prepared by spin coating solutions of TANIPANI-TiO2 and TANIPANI composites onto glass slides. Sensors were tested at three different concentrations (20 ppm, 40 ppm, and 60 ppm) of ammonia gas at ambient temperature conditions by measuring the changes in surface resistivity of the films with respect to time. Ammonia gas sensing plots are presented showing the response values, response times and recovery times. The TANIPANI-TiO2 composite exhibited better response and shorter recovery times when compared to TANIPANI control and other polyaniline composites that have been reported in the literature. For the first time a proposed mechanism of gas sensing basing on the polaron band localization and its effects on the gas sensing behavior of polyaniline are reported.
Anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy.

The highly active chemotherapeutic agents doxorubicin, duanorubicin, idarubicin, epirubicin, and mitoxantrone are also associated with acute, largely reversible cardiotoxic effects and a dose-related cardiomyopathy. This cardiomyopathy is characterized by minimal left ventricular enlargement and global systolic dysfunction, usually with associated mild to moderate mitral insufficiency. Historically, this was characterized by myocardial biopsy and radionuclide angiography. More recently, echocardiography has become the most widely available and cost-efficient tool for diagnosis. The precise mechanism of this toxicity has not been fully defined. However, the maximum tolerated cumulative dose can by increased by reducing peak drug levels and concurrent administration of the iron chelator, dexrazoxane. Because anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy is largely irreversible and cumulative, prevention is the preferred strategy. Monitoring by assessment of left ventricular function by the most reproducible method available as patients approach potentially toxic doses can substantially reduce toxicity. Stress studies before major procedures such as bone marrow or stem cell transplants may be of benefit. This syndrome responds well to conventional therapy for congestive heart failure with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, digoxin, and diuretics. The beta-blocker carvedilol is often associated with significant improvement in ejection fraction and symptoms and spironolactone is well tolerated and often of benefit. The long-term outlook of the syndrome is much better than previously reported because of advances in therapy and prevention.
Query optimization of distributed pattern matching

Greedy algorithms for subgraph pattern matching operations are often sufficient when the graph data set can be held in memory on a single machine. However, as graph data sets increasingly expand and require external storage and partitioning across a cluster of machines, more sophisticated query optimization techniques become critical to avoid explosions in query latency. In this paper, we introduce several query optimization techniques for distributed graph pattern matching. These techniques include (1) a System-R style dynamic programming-based optimization algorithm that considers both linear and bushy plans, (2) a cycle detection-based algorithm that leverages cycles to reduce intermediate result set sizes, and (3) a computation reusing technique that eliminates redundant query execution and data transfer over the network. Experimental results show that these algorithms can lead to an order of magnitude improvement in query performance.
Headaches as a symptom of neurological disease

When a headache develops in a child or adolescent, both the patient and the parents may fear the presence of a brain tumor. However, most headaches are not a symptom of a serious neurological disease but are related to stress or migraine. In this article, headaches in relationship to neurological disorders are reviewed. The pathophysiology of head pain and increased intracranial pressure are reviewed. Methods used to evaluate patients suspected of harboring an intracranial abnormality include a thorough history, a carefully performed physical examination, and neuroimaging studies. This article reviews cerebrovascular disease, neoplasms, hydrocephalus, and other structural abnormalities that cause headaches.
fMRI evidence for a dual process account of the speed-accuracy tradeoff in decision-making.

Background The speed and accuracy of decision-making have a well-known trading relationship: hasty decisions are more prone to errors while careful, accurate judgments take more time. Despite the pervasiveness of this speed-accuracy trade-off (SAT) in decision-making, its neural basis is still unknown. Methodology/Principal Findings Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) we show that emphasizing the speed of a perceptual decision at the expense of its accuracy lowers the amount of evidence-related activity in lateral prefrontal cortex. Moreover, this speed-accuracy difference in lateral prefrontal cortex activity correlates with the speed-accuracy difference in the decision criterion metric of signal detection theory. We also show that the same instructions increase baseline activity in a dorso-medial cortical area involved in the internal generation of actions. Conclusions/Significance These findings suggest that the SAT is neurally implemented by modulating not only the amount of externally-derived sensory evidence used to make a decision, but also the internal urge to make a response. We propose that these processes combine to control the temporal dynamics of the speed-accuracy trade-off in decision-making.
Lethal heat induces single strand breaks in the DNA of bacterial spores

Lethal heating induces DNA single strand breakage in bacterial endospores as detected by the alkaline sucrose gradient centrifugation technique. Heating of spores of Bacillussubtilis 168 at 90°C for 10, 30, and 60 min induced 6, 15, and 15 single strand breaks, respectively and inactivated 6%, 98.2%, and 99.974% of the spores. This is the first report to our knowledge identifying specifically single strand DNA breakage with lethal heat injury of bacterial spores.
Ablation mechanism of PTFE under 157 nm irradiation

We report time- and mass-resolved measurements on neutral particles emitted from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) during exposure to 157-nm laser radiation at fluences where etching is observed. By comparing the time-of-flight signals over a range of masses, we conclude that (CF2) N fragments for N=1–6 are emitted directly from the surface in substantial quantities. In contrast, the monomer (N=2) is the principal product during irradiation at 248 nm, where thermal decomposition is important. The time-of-flight signals of all the (CF2) N fragments show fast components with kinetic energies on the order of an electron volt. These high kinetic energies are consistent with photochemical scission of the polymer backbone, where a fraction of the excitation energy is delivered to the fragment as kinetic energy. Although clean etching is observed under these conditions, the great majority of the mass removed from the target appears as much larger fragments that do not reach our detector. The nature of this material and its affect on the velocity distribution of the observed (CF2) N fragments is discussed.
Analytical Noise/Performance Modeling Of Detector Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) Hybrid Devices

Hybrid focal plane devices with photovoltaic detectors mated to charge-coupled device (CCD) multiplexers are finding applications in an increasing variety of staring and scanning sensor systems. This paper presents analytical models for the modulation transfer runction (MTF) and the noise in a sensor system which uses hybrid focal plane devices. The MTF model treats principal sources of MTF degradation within the detector chip, the CCD, and signal processing. The noise model treats fifteen noise sources within the detector and CCD, and also accounts for noise generated in the signal processing chain. Both models are applicable for either staring or scanning sensor systems. Limitations of the models are discussed.
Mechanism of faster NO scavenging by older stored red blood cells

The blood storage lesion involves morphological and biochemical changes of red blood cells (RBCs) that occur during storage. These include conversion of the biconcave disc morphology to a spherical one, decreased mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, varied mean corpuscular volume, reduced integrity of the erythrocyte membrane with formation of microparticles, and increased cell-free hemoglobin. We studied the extent that older stored red blood cells scavenge nitric oxide (NO) faster than fresher stored red blood cells. Using electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and stopped-flow absorption spectroscopy to measure the rate of NO uptake and reaction with hemoglobin in red cells, we found that older stored red blood cells scavenge NO about 1.8 times faster than fresher ones. Based on these experimental data, we simulated NO scavenging by fresher or older stored red blood cells with a biconcave or spherical geometry, respectively, in order to explore the mechanism of NO scavenging related to changes that occur during blood storage. We found that red blood cells with a spherical geometry scavenges NO about 2 times slower than ones with a biconcave geometry, and a smaller RBC hemoglobin concentration or volume increases NO scavenging by red blood cells. Our simulations demonstrate that even the most extreme possible changes in mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration and mean corpuscular volume that favor increased NO scavenging are insufficient to account for what is observed experimentally. Therefore, RBC membrane permeability must increase during storage and we find that the permeability is likely to increase between 5 and 70 fold. Simulations using a two-dimensional blood vessel show that even a 5-fold increase in membrane permeability to NO can reduce NO bioavailability at the smooth muscle.
The privileges and the responsibilities of a surgical oncologist.

A surgical oncologist should teach at the undergraduate or postgraduate level, play a leadership role in oncology in either the community hospital or in an academic institution, encourage or participate in basic or clinical oncologic research, and foster interdisciplinary cooperation with the other oncologic specialists. The surgical oncologist should take an active role in educating the general surgical community through programs of the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. Professional recognition of Surgical Oncology should be secured through the examination of surgical oncologists. The privilege of being a surgical oncologist carries with it the responsibility of recognition, certification, increased research effort and team involvement for optimal cancer care. Cancer 55:1159–1162, 1985.
Type of Task Practice and Time-Sharing Activities Predict Performance Deficits Due to Alcohol Ingestion

Generally speaking, performance declines when humans ingest alcohol; however, there is little precision in predicting alcohol effects. The confusion regarding when and in what situations performance will decline because of alcohol intoxication appears to be due to inappropriate classification of information processes involved in task performance. The present research utilized principles of automatic/controlled processing theory to examine alcohol effects. Performance on tasks performed via automatic processing showed little decrement due to alcohol but large decrements occurred on controlled processing tasks. Results indicate that the type of practice and therefore the type of information processing predicts performance decrements due to alcohol. Alcohol produces a general reduction in resources and ability to share resources both within and between tasks. The results allow a delineation of alcohol effects and provide a theoretical framework for prediction of alcohol effects.
Analyses of sister-chromatid exchange and cell-cycle kinetics in mouse T- and B-lymphocytes from peripheral blood cultures.

A reliable mouse peripheral blood lymphocyte culture assay has been developed for sister-chromatid exchange analysis. Crucial aspects for optimal mitogenesis include: (1) the addition of 5 × 105 leucocytes/ml culture; (2) the use of animals with leucocyte counts from 5 to 7 × 106/ml; and (3) the addition of 6% mouse plasma for the first 24 h of a total 54-h incubation. When 7 μg phytohemagglutinin/ml were used to stimulate T-lymphocytes, the mitotic index was 3.4 ± 0.3%, 28 ± 2.3% of the metaphases were in first-division, and the SCE frequency/metaphase was 7.3 ± 0.2 (n = 14 mice). When B-lymphocytes were stimulated with 60 μg lipopolysaccharide/ml, the mitotic index was 4.5 ± 0.3%, 64 ± 3.3% of the metaphases were in first-division, and the SCE frequency/metaphase was 4.6 ± 0.1 (n = 7 mice). This culture method consistently yields sufficient numbers of the metaphases from both B- and T-lymphocytes for SCE and chromosome-breakage studies.
Cultures, organizations and philanthropy

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to examine the influence of corporate culture on the practice of corporate philanthropy in a global environment.Design/methodology/approach – The paper uses content analysis of corporate texts and media; interviews with global philanthropy practitioners.Findings – The paper finds that: corporate philanthropy is a reflector of corporate values; global corporate philanthropists have a history of commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities; global companies practice international philanthropy; program delivery differs as a reflection of corporate history, values, mission, and business drivers; global corporations utilize CSR to gain and maintain their “license to operate”; and corporate cultural learning is pursued as an explicit activity; cross‐cultural learning is generally perceived as an implicit outcome. CSR shares values, opportunity for integrated cultural learning.Research limitations/implications – This research is not generalizable. Its fi...
Justice, fair procedures, and the goals of medicine.

Bioethics as a field has Is shown an aversion, or at least reluctance, to asking substantive Justice questions about the human good or the ends of medicine. Enough? It has been prone to adopt formalistic criteria, on the one hand-essentially empty of content-or procedural criteria, on the other. It has in that respect deferred all too quickly to the supposed demands of pluralism, and the no less supposed resistance of postmodern intellectuals to tolerate any fraternizing with goals and ends of any kind. Yet unless there can be a discussion of the goals of medicine in the future as rich as that of justice and health care has been, the latter problem will simply not admit of any meaningful solution. We can settle for a purely procedural and political solution, but we do not have to. *
Hither, Thither, and Yon: Process in Putting Courses on the Web

Educational institutions are employing a variety of processes to support Web‐based courses. In our efforts to help faculty mount such courses, we found it helpful to divide course material into knowledge‐based versus skill‐based elements, and to develop activities that capitalize on the unique environment of the Web. In this article, we discuss our successes and failures, and cover some legal issues we discovered that affect how we use both preexisting and student‐produced materials.
Preliminary Design Optimization of an Amphibious Aircraft

An amphibious aircraft combines the speed and range benefits of a conventional aircraft with the ability to land and takeoff on open water. There are other appealing factors to operating an amphibious aircraft including convenience, the ability to operate without a hard surface runway and additional safety for overwater operations. These factors, however, all come at a cost and impact the design of the aircraft. To examine these tradeoffs, common design and optimization methods were applied to the conceptual design of an amphibious aircraft and then compared to wind tunnel results of that design. In this study, a hypothetical troop and cargo transport aircraft mission profile was selected. A sizing program was developed to create an aircraft geometry and evaluate its performance. This code was written to account for many different aircraft criteria, including tail configuration, wing and fuselage geometry, and method of water operation (floats, hydrofoil, boat hull, etc.). The sizing code was first validated on several classes of existing aircraft. It was then run in conjunction with a hybrid, particle swarm-simplex optimizer to find a configuration for the hypothetical transport aircraft with minimum overall weight. The optimized design was tested in Auburn University’s subsonic, 3 ft. x 4 ft. wind tunnel. The model was run through a battery of tests including measuring the forces and moments, and surface flow visualization. Runs were made at various angles of attack and sideslip angles. The testing included cases with several different control surface deflections. Analysis was also performed on the aircraft using Athena Vortex Lattice and Orca3D to determine stability in flight and while on water. Results of the testing were used to validate the performance parameters estimated by the design code.
Coping With Trauma Through Fictional Narrative Ethnography: A Primer

This article, written as a letter to the editor, is in response to Journal of Loss and Trauma's original rejection of our fictional narrative autoethnography. We introduce this method and argue that our fictionalization of part of the narrative is not a departure from other narrative ethnographic work and serves several purposes relevant to JLT: It was therapeutic to the authors; it conveyed meaning that could not have been conveyed in a more traditional manner; it served as a metaphor for a resistance narrative against the culturally canonical story of suffering victim; and it provided a shared cultural story that allowed us to connect with many women in our generation. We suggest that narrative “truth” should be concerned with how the story is used and understood. We advocate that methods such as this give voice to stories that are difficult to tell and understand, and open spaces to reflect alternative ways of knowing.
Ensuring Gen Y Students Come Prepared for Class; then Leveraging Active Learning Techniques to Most Effectively Engage Them

During the 2011-2012 academic year, a teaching method was tested that yielded strong improvements in test scores, greater depth of analysis in projects, an increased level of class participation, and higher attendance rates. This case study discusses how class preparation assignments were used with a dual grading system in an active learning environment to achieve these outcomes. The case concludes with an analysis of the class grades and attendance records, quotes from two student interviews, and a year-to-year comparison of the faculty evaluations for each benchmark course.
The yield and safety of string capsule endoscopy in patients with dysphagia

Background Dysphagia is a contraindication for the use of conventional capsule endoscopy (CE). Because string CE (SCE) allows for the immediate retrieval of the device, it eliminates the risk of capsule retention. Objective To assess the yield and safety of SCE in patients with dysphagia. Design Comparative study of SCE and EGD. Setting Phoenix Veteran Affairs Medical Center. Patients and Interventions Patients with dysphagia underwent SCE and EGD. Results In 40 patients with dysphagia, the EGD findings were normal in 13 (32.5%); Schatzki's ring in 10 (25%); esophageal tumors in 9 (22.5%), with 1 of these having 2 separate and distinct malignancies; erosive esophagitis in 4 (10%); strictures in 2 (5%); and a web and large esophageal varices in 1 patient each (2.5%). The sensitivity of SCE for diagnosing anatomic pathology as the likely cause of dysphagia was 92.9%, with a specificity of 92.3%, a positive predictive value of 96.3%, and negative predictive value of 85.7%. The overall agreement between SCE and EGD was 92.7% and the kappa index was 0.83. There were no complications with either procedure. There was no case of capsule retention. The SCE recording time was 385.8 seconds; 77.5% patients preferred SCE to EGD. Conclusions (1) SCE was safe, well tolerated, and accurate for the diagnosis of pathology responsible for dysphagia; (2) SCE was preferred to EGD by more than three fourths of patients; (3) SCE can be safely performed in patients with dysphagia.
Nonoperative management of bladder rupture from external trauma

Nonoperative (catheter) management was used in 18 patients with extraperitoneal rupture of the bladder with limited extravasation of dye found by retrograde cystogram. Complications occurred in 4 of the 18 patients. A review of the literature shows a 20 to 25-per cent complication rate with nonoperative management of bladder rupture. However, with a small extraperitoneal rupture with limited extravasation, especially in a female, the nonoperative (catheter) management will give a satisfactory result.
Morphine potentiates seizures induced by GABA antagonists and attenuates seizures induced by electroshock in the rat

Abstract In a naloxone-reversible, dose-dependent manner, morphine (10–50 mg/kg i.p.) protected against seizures induced by maximal electroshock and increased the incidence and severity of seizures induced by bicuculline, in rats. Morphine also potentiated seizures induced by isoniazid and by picrotoxin. Thus, opiate activity influences the expression of seizures in contrasting ways depending upon the mode of seizure induction. Since consistently potentiated seizures induced by interference with GABA transmission, it appears that GABAergic systems may be of particular significance for the elucidation of the varied effects of morphine on seizure susceptibility.
Calibration of Beta-Particle Ophthalmic Applicators at the National Bureau of Standards.

The method used at the National Bu~ reau of Standards for the calibration of strontium-90 + yttrium-90 beta-particle ophthalmic applicators in terms of ab­ sorbed dose to water, is described. The method involves measurement of ioniza­ tion density at the applicator surface with an extrapolation chamber. correc­ tion for the difference in backscatter be­ tween the collection electrode and water, and application of the BraggGray equation. The calibration obtained is an average over the active surface of the applicator. The overall uncertainty of the surface calibration is about ± 15 percent.
Physical Interaction Between Lipid A and Phospholipids: A Study with Spin-Labeled Phospholipids

When mixed bilayers containing spin-labeled phosphatidylethanolamine (or phosphatidylglycerol) and Escherichia coli B lipopolysaccharide were prepared, electron spin resonance signals indicated that the patches that were initially present and contained only phospholipids or only lipopolysaccharides were unusually stable and that little lateral diffusion of phospholipids into lipopolysaccharide domains, or vice versa, took place. These results explain how the outer layer of the outer membrane, which essentially contains only lipopolysaccharides in addition to proteins, can be generated and maintained stably in bacterial cells. Furthermore, the stability of pure lipopolysaccharide domains may have important implications in the mode of action of endotoxins in the body of the host. For example, lipopolysaccharide molecules may tend to form stable domains or patches spontaneously in the animal cell membrane, and special mechanisms (such as the binding to a special receptor) may be needed to disperse the lipopolysaccharide molecules within the host cell membranes.
Precision measurement: The magnetic proton.

A record measurement of the proton's magnetism has been achieved by confining a single proton in a device called a double Penning trap. The result opens the way to exploring one of nature's fundamental symmetries. See Letter p.596 Although less prominent than large synchrotron experiments, measurements of fundamental constants or atomic properties can still make valuable contributions to the search of physical laws beyond the Standard Model — if the measurement precision is high enough. In a direct measurement, Andreas Mooser et al. determine the magnetic moment of the proton with unprecedented precision. The measurement is performed using a double Penning trap, a system in which a single ion is confined and manipulated in a powerful homogeneous magnetic field. In combination with a direct measurement of the antiproton magnetic moment, this work will pave the way for a rigorous test of matter–antimatter symmetry.
Posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy is associated with TCF8 gene mutations and abdominal hernia

Mutations in the two-handed zinc-finger homeodomain transcription factor gene (TCF8) have been associated with posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy (PPCD) and extraocular developmental abnormalities. We performed screening of TCF8 in 32 affected, unrelated probands, affected and unaffected family members of probands identified with a TCF8 mutation, and in 100 control individuals. Eight different pathogenic mutations were identified in eight probands: four frameshift (c.953_954insA, c.1506dupA, c.1592delA, and c.3012_3013delAG); three nonsense (Gln12X, Gln214X, Arg325X); and one missense (Met1Arg). Screening of TCF8 in affected and unaffected family members in six families demonstrated that each identified mutation segregated with the disease phenotype in each family; two probands did not have additional family members available for analysis. None of the eight TCF8 mutations was identified in 200 control chromosomes. The prevalence of hernias of the abdominal region in affected individuals with PPCD associated with TCF8 mutations was significantly higher than the prevalence in both individuals with PPCD not associated with a TCF8 mutation and in unaffected individuals. Therefore, PPCD is associated with TCF8 mutations in one quarter of affected families in this study, or about one third of all PPCD families that have been screened thus far. In these families, the presence of apparently causative TCF8 mutations is associated with abdominal and inguinal hernias.
Iron aluminides: present status and future prospects

Abstract This paper constitutes a broad survey of the physical, mechanical and corrosion properties of Fe3Al alloys, as well as a review of principal processing methods. This class of alloys, once thought to be inherently brittle, is shown to possess moderate ductility, provided that mechanical testing is carried out in an inert environment. Methods to improve mechanical properties by alloying and microstructural control are described. The influence of alloying elements on corrosion and stress corrosion resistance and weldability also is reviewed.
Trochanteric hip fracture: Strong association with spinal trabecular bone mineral density measured with quantitative CT

PURPOSE: To determine the discriminatory capability for hip fracture of trabecular and integral bone mineral density (BMD) measured with quantitative computed tomography (CT) of the spine. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-six women who had sustained hip fractures and 59 control subjects underwent volumetric quantitative CT of L1 and L2 and dual x-ray absorptiometry of the hip. BMD was measured in vertebral regions of interest that encompassed trabecular, cortical, and integral bone. Logistic regression analysis was applied to each BMD measure to derive age-, weight-, and height-adjusted relative risk (RR) factors for overall hip fracture and for trochanteric fracture and cervical fracture separately. RESULTS: Spinal trabecular BMD was modestly related to overall hip fracture (RR, 1.4-1.7; P < .05) and strongly associated with trochanteric fracture (RR, 4.2-4.5; P < .005). Spinal integral BMD related similarly to overall hip fracture (RR, 1.7-1.8; P < .05) but more weakly to trochanteric fracture (RR, 2.3-3.2;...
Survey of Creepage Distances and Clearances in HVDC Converter Stations

In comparison with the long term experience on clearances and creepage distances of power frequency voltages, experiences with direct current voltage have been relatively short and limited. This paper which is sponsored by the IEEE Working Group 79.5 Clearances and Creepage Distances in HVdc Converter Stations, describes the result of a survey among various electrical utilities around the world based on their design and/or operating experience of high voltage direct current (HVdc) converter stations. It is intended as a practical reference and guideline to be used by electrical utility engineers, operating and maintenance personnel, as well as HVdc equipment manufacturers. The survey includes environmental conditions, creepage distances, clearances, maintenance and operating experience for each converter station, followed by an analysis for each category.
Mobile agent based TDMA slot assignment algorithm for wireless sensor networks

In this paper we propose an on-line TDMA slot assignment/graph coloring algorithm for wireless sensor networks with the help of a mobile agent. It is known that graph coloring problem is NP-complete and several heuristics have been developed. Many of them are centralized algorithms and assume global knowledge of the network. We developed a mobile agent based slot assignment (MASA) algorithm in which a mobile agent moves from node to node and assigns a slot to nodes using two-hop neighborhood information. MASA is close to degree based lower bound (d + 1). It requires d + 1 number of colors or slightly more than d + 1 number of colors depending upon the topology, where d is the maximum nodal degree of the graph.