cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of ionic stress on apoptosis and the expression of TRPM2 in human olfactory neuroepithelial-derived progenitors

AbstractObjectives. Disturbed ion homeostasis and apoptosis have been implicated in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder (BD). TRPM2, a nonselective cation channel, is involved in apoptosis and is possibly linked with BD. In this study, monensin, a sodium ionophore, was used to model the increase [Na+]in and [Ca2+]in seen in BD patients. Methods. Human olfactory neuroepithelial-derived progenitors (ONP), which possess neuronal markers, were utilized to investigate the effects of monensin on apoptosis and the response of TRPM2, and the effects of lithium on the cellular response to monensin. Monensin treatment for 6 h activated caspase-3, -7 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), inducing apoptosis. Results. [Na+]in increased to twice the basal level and reached steady state after 2 h of 10−6 M monensin treatment, while [Ca2+]in rose after 6 h of the treatment. Monensin treatment for 24 h decreased expression of the long form of TRPM2, and increased expression of the short form. Lithium (1 mM) pretreat...
The closeness-communication bias: Increased egocentrism among friends versus strangers

Abstract People commonly believe that they communicate better with close friends than with strangers. We propose, however, that closeness can lead people to overestimate how well they communicate, a phenomenon we term the closeness-communication bias. In one experiment, participants who followed direction of a friend were more likely to make egocentric errors—look at and reach for an object only they could see—than were those who followed direction of a stranger. In two additional experiments, participants who attempted to convey particular meanings with ambiguous phrases overestimated their success more when communicating with a friend or spouse than with strangers. We argue that people engage in active monitoring of strangers’ divergent perspectives because they know they must, but that they “let down their guard” and rely more on their own perspective when they communicate with a friend.
Color preference and arousal.

Virginia Commonwealth University Heiss' theory of the relationship between color and arousal (in Schaie & Heiss, 1964) suggests that color not only has an effect on an individual's level of arousal but also that an individual's typical arousal level plays a role in determining color preference. Colors are grouped into three categories of arousal value: intense, including red, orange, and yellow; moderate, including green, blue, purple, and brown; and low, including white, grey, and black. Research (Wilson, 1966; Nourse & Welch, 1971) suggests that colors differentially stimulate physiological arousal, but these studies suggest that colors close to the dangerous wave lengths ourside the visible spectrum have high arousal properties compared to those in the middle of the spectrum. The present study examined the relationship between scared color preference and a variety of physiological arousal measures. Thirty undergraduates in beginning psychology, preferring colors for high arousal, and 30 preferring colors for moderate arousal, were tested. Each group contained equal numbers of males and females. (Only two of the 215 Ss screened preferred low arousal co!ors so no low arousal group was formed.) Dependent measures were based on heart rate, blood pressure, and galvanic skin response. No significant differences between color-preference groups were obtained on any of the physiological measures. One significant difference between the sexes was obtained on second diastolic blood pressure reading (males were higher), but chis has no apparent theoretical significance nor is it relevant to the purpose of the study. A stepwise multiple regression procedure indicated that the galvanic skin response was the "best" predictor of color preference, but this measure accounted for only 3% of the coral variability, and all measures combined accounted for only 10% of the variability! Schaie and Heiss (1964) do not emphasize cultural or cognitive components. "Arousal" is said to be the only important mediating factor in color preference. While this study did not examine a cultural effect directly. the results suggest that cultural variables may affect color choice. Over 65% of the females screened selected blue as one of their three most preferrid colors. A majority (53%) of the males included red and blue among their first three choices. Conversely, only two of 215 Ss preferred the achromatic colocs. These findings suggest the Heiss' formulation is at best incomplete, and ac worst, invalid.
The Ginzburg Criterion Applied to a Weak First Order Phase Transition

Abstract The range of validity of a mean field theory near a second order phase transition can be estimated using the Ginzburg criteria. Previous attempts to apply this principle to weakly first order transitions such as the nematic-isotropic transition fail to simplify to the form of the Ginzburg criteria for a second order transition and also predict fluctuations becoming less significant as the transition is approached. I calculate a Ginzburg criteria in the nematic phase that simplifies to the accepted solution as the transition becomes second order.
Noradrenergic α-1 and α-2 antagonists block l-DOPA-induced air-stepping in neonatal rats

Abstract Five-day-old rat pups suspended in air and administered l -3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine ( l -DOPA) engage in a highly stereotyped and coordinated locomotor behavior termed air-stepping. l -DOPA is a precursor for dopamine and noradrenaline and one or both of these neurotransmitters could play a role in l -DOPA-induced air-stepping. The role of noradrenaline was investigated by assessing the abilities of the α-1 noradrenergic receptor antagonist prazosin and the α-2 noradrenergic receptor antagonist idazoxan to block l -DOPA-induced air-stepping in 5-day-old rats. Both antagonists decreased the duration of air-stepping. In addition, prazosin altered the topography of air-stepping by interfering with coordination of the hindlimbs. The results suggest that α-1 and α-2 noradrenergic receptor subtypes are involved in l -DOPA-induced air-stepping.
Hypnosis and broad-spectrum behavior therapy for blepharospasm: A case study

Abstract This study describes the apparently successful treatment of a case of blepharospasm (severe eye-blink tic). The blepharospasm apparently did not respond to analytic psychotherapy which had previously been attempted. The dynamics and etiology of the symptoms seemed clear to the previous therapist, present therapist, and to the patient. Combining hypnosis and behavior therapy in a manner calculated to strengthen the ego appears to have been the critical therapeutic intervention.
Social Tagging in the Web 2.0 Environment: Author vs. User Tagging

Social tagging increasingly attracts the attention of information scientists. Much research has focused on large-scale assessment of tag sets in systems. The reasons for tagging remain uncertain. To date, the library and information science (LIS) field has not explicitly explored the differences between author-supplied metadata (endo-tagging) and user-supplied metadata (exo-tagging). This article reviews a number of studies on social tagging and recommends further user-centered research into motivation; proposed research could be carried out in conjunction with studies focusing on the different reasons for endo- and exo-tagging.
Ike: An American Hero – By Michael Korda

The author's mission in this, his twentieth book, is plainly expressed in the subtitle—to make the case for Dwight D. Eisenhower as “an American hero.” Michael Korda believes that Americans are too...
Time-Domain Impedance Adaptors for Pulse-Based Systems with High Q RC loads

A new time-varying matching network is proposed for pulse-based systems with RC loads. In the proposed design, the capacitors in the matching network and the load are pre-charged and connected to the system via switches when a pulse signal arrives. Compared with the conventional matching network that is limited by the gain-bandwidth restriction, the switched capacitor design of the proposed matching network greatly improves the matching performance in that 7-8 dB increase/decrease in the transmitted/reflected energy as well as little pulse-widening are observed in the experiments.
Self-Assembly of Quantum-Dot Molecules: Heterogeneous Nucleation of SiGe Islands on Si(100)

We report on the formation of clusters of self-assembled quantum dots (termed quantum-dot molecules). Each cluster, typically consisting of four closely spaced SiGe islands, is formed by preferential nucleation around the edges of square pits. Uniform-sized pits are directly formed by controlled deposition of Si and C on the initial Si(100) surface, followed by the growth of a thin Si buffer layer. Formation of ${105}$ pit walls as precursors to island formation and elastic relaxation effects near the pits appear to influence island nucleation. Quantum-dot molecules may have potential applications in nanoelectronic devices and may exhibit novel electronic and optical properties.
A characterization of set representable labeled partial 2-structures through decompositions

The notion of the product of (initialized) labeled partial 2-structures is introduced, and then set representable (initialized) labeled partial 2-structures are characterized in terms of products of binary switches which are "very simple" (initialized) labeled partial 2-structures.
Cardiac risk factors and potential treatments in Alzheimer's disease

Dementia is one of the commonest neurological disorders in the elderly population. In regards to the increasing longevity of populations worldwide, prevention of dementia has become a major public health challenge. There has been an intense research in the identification of modifiable risk factors for dementia. These risk factors could then be used as targets for intervention, pharmacologic or non-pharmacologic. Numerous reports of the relation between cardiovascular risk factors and cognitive decline and dementia have been published over the past years. This review focuses on the cardiovascular risk factors hypertension, hyperlipidemia and diabetes mellitus as targets for prevention of cognitive decline, overall dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Observational studies and clinical trials regarding the association between antihypertensive, lipid lowering and antidiabetic medications and the risk of impaired cognition, dementia or Alzheimer's disease are reviewed. Based on these data, we propose that early interventions at reducing these cardiovascular risk factors may have an impact on future incidence and prevalence of cognitive deficits of many etiologies including Alzheimer's disease.
Post adoption depression

We sought to evaluate the prevalence rate and factors associated with post adoption depression. One hundred and twelve adoptive mothers of infants under 12 months of age were recruited from local and national adoption organizations. A modified Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and a questionnaire collecting medical and psychiatric history, perceived stress, and demographics were administered retrospectively. The rates of significant depressive symptoms (defined as EPDS >or=12) were calculated at three time points post adoption, and associations with specific clinical variables (personal or family psychiatric history, stress, and adjustment difficulty) were assessed. Eighty-six mothers were included. Rates of significant depressive symptoms (EPDS >or=12) were found in 27.9% of subjects at 0-4 weeks, 25.6% at 5-12 weeks, and 12.8% at 13-52 weeks post adoption. Significant depressive symptoms were not associated with personal or family psychiatric history but were associated with stress (p = 0.0011) and adjustment difficulties (p = 0.042) post adoption. Significant depressive symptoms were relatively common in adoptive mothers within the first year after adoption and were associated with environmental stress. Prospective studies are needed to confirm the existence of post adoption depression and the factors associated with it.
The calibration of a position-sensitive gamma-ray detector for 50–90 MeV photons

Abstract This paper describes the calibration of a position-sensitive gamma-ray detector for use in the 50–90 MeV energy range. At 54 MeV, the energy resolution is 47% and the position resolution is 1.0 cm. The efficiency is independent of the point of photon interaction in the detector within a solid angle of 0.38 sr.
τFCS: Multi-Method Global Analysis Enhances Resolution and Sensitivity in Fluorescence Fluctuation Measurements

Fluorescence fluctuation methods have become invaluable research tools for characterizing the molecular-level physical and chemical properties of complex systems, such as molecular concentrations, dynamics, and the stoichiometry of molecular interactions. However, information recovery via curve fitting analysis of fluctuation data is complicated by limited resolution and challenges associated with identifying accurate fit models. We introduce a new approach to fluorescence fluctuation spectroscopy that couples multi-modal fluorescence measurements with multi-modal global curve fitting analysis. This approach yields dramatically enhanced resolution and fitting model discrimination capabilities in fluctuation measurements. The resolution enhancement allows the concentration of a secondary species to be accurately measured even when it constitutes only a few percent of the molecules within a sample mixture, an important new capability that will allow accurate measurements of molecular concentrations and interaction stoichiometry of minor sample species that can be functionally important but difficult to measure experimentally. We demonstrate this capability using τFCS, a new fluctuation method which uses simultaneous global analysis of fluorescence correlation spectroscopy and fluorescence lifetime data, and show that τFCS can accurately recover the concentrations, diffusion coefficients, lifetimes, and molecular brightness values for a two component mixture over a wide range of relative concentrations.
ETIOLOGY OF RIGHT BUNDLE BRANCH BLOCK (RBBB) FOLLOWING CLOSURE OF VENTRICULAR SEPTAL DEFECT (VSD)

Recent reports on the etiology of RBBB after closure of VSD have implied that RBBB is caused solely by the ventriculotomy and that it is absent when VSDs are repaired via the tricuspid valve; this suggests that postoperative RBB3 in VSD is primarily due to interruption of the right ventricular subendocardial Purkinje network. To answer this question, we reviewed the electrocardiograms, available vectorcardiograms, and operative notes of two groups: group 1 (38 patients with ventricular septal defects closed via the tricuspid valve) and group 2 (26 patients with isolated muscular VSD closed via ventriculotomy). Fifteen patients (37%) of group 1 and 14 (54%) of group 2 developed RBBB characterized by a delay in terminal forces in the immediate postoperative period. Initial activation was altered in the horizontal plane in 12 of the 15 patients (80%) of group 1 with RBBB and in 6 of the 14 patients (43%) in group 2 with RBBB. This difference between the groups was statistically significant (P<0.05). We assume that this alteration in initial forces results from delay in transmission through the right bundle system. These findings suggest that damage to the right bundle near the VSD (1) alters the initial phase of ventricular depolarization and (2) may also produce a delay in terminal forces--a delay that is known to occur after interruption of the subendocardial Purkinje network resulting from ventriculotomy.
Know your patient: psychological drivers of decision making.

This is a commentary on “Attitudes of legal guardians of ventilated ICU patients toward the process of decision making associated with invasive nonlife-saving procedures” by Michael Kuniavsky, Freda DeKeyser Ganz, David M Linton, and Sigal Sviri. Kuniavsky and colleagues report that decision-making for the seriously ill is difficult for the patients’ legal guardians, many of whom would be comfortable with doctors making the decisions. This commentary offers that accurate predictions about treatment choices may be derived by using assessments that characterize the key drivers of individual’s decision making, thus relieving some of decision makers' burdens. This approach could also usher in an era of assessing quality of care for the seriously ill by whether the care matches patient goals.
Malignant struma ovarii: two case reports and a review of the literature.

Struma ovarii consists of thyroid tissue derived from germ cells in a mature teratoma. Malignant transformation is very rare, with clinically evident metastatic disease reported in approximately 20 cases. The rarity of this disease renders evaluation of treatment modalities difficult. There is evidence that these tumors behave like their thyroid counterparts, and cytoreductive surgery followed by ablation with radioactive iodine has been advocated. We report the diagnosis and treatment of 2 patients with metastatic malignant struma ovarii treated with a combination of surgery and radiation therapy.
Growth of Rock-Salt and Spinel Structured Oxides on α−Al2O3, c-ZrO2 and MgO

Pulsed-laser deposition has been used to grow thin films of the rock-salt and spinel structured oxides NiO, CoO and C03O4 on single-crystal substrates of α-Al2O3, MgO and C-Z1O2. The resultant microstructures were characterized in plan-view by transmission electron microscopy and by low-voltage scanning electron microscopy. In all the depositions, the parameters could be controlled to grow predominantly single-crystal films. In the NiO/(0001)α-Al2O3 and CoO/(100)c-ZrO2 systems, {111}-oriented films were observed which were found to be twinned close to 60° and 90° about respectively. Growth of cobalt oxide films on (100) MgO at 800°C and 15 mTorr of oxygen produced {100}-oriented domains of C03O4 meeting at antiphase boundaries. These observations and other recent studies re-emphasize the role of substrate crystallography in governing the orientation relationships in the overlayer.
On the mechanical preconditioning of ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene at small uniaxial deformations

The results of creep and recovery experiments are reported for a sample of ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene at three different temperatures and creep times in the range from 10 s to 1.47 X 106s. In order to approximate constant-true-stress conditions all the experiments were carried out at the same value of applied stress (4 MPa) and the change in strain during creep was never more than about 2%. It was found that within the range of conditions used the creep and recovery data could be described quite well by a one-dimensional constitutive equation consisting of two terms, one a single integral hereditary term and the other a plasticity term. Further, it was shown that to a very good approximation the idea of time-temperature superposition can be applied to the description of the hereditary term Ĵ (σ, T, t). We believe that the results described here provide greater insight into what constitutes “mechanical preconditioning” of semicrystalline polymers and further provide a relatively simple method for describing the uniaxial creep and recovery behavior of such materials.
Testing continuity of grounding grid using the AC current injection method

We propose here a cost-effective, realistic method for testing the continuity of the grounding grid and for identifying its weak points or discontinuities. The proposed method involves injecting an ac current of ∼200 A frequency not 60 Hz or 60 Hz harmonic into a grounding grid. The purpose of the frequency setting is to be able to distinguish the magnetic field produced by the injected current when the substation is energized. The magnetic field generated by the current flowing in the buried grid conductors is then measured above the ground. A strong magnetic field indicates that the grounding grid is in good condition; a weak magnetic field indicates that some damage may exist. Two field tests were conducted to demonstrate that the proposed method works effectively in determining the continuity of the grounding grid.
FUZZY SYSTEMS IN BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE

The most attractive feature of the fuzzy theory to biological science researchers is the simplicity of fuzzy mathematical expression, which is extremely useful for reasoning the problem and for controlling the process in biological areas where precise mathematical models can hardly be developed. In this review, recent progress of fuzzy theory in biomedical science is illustrated in four areas: device control, biological control, classification and pattern recognition, and prediction and association.
Plexiform ameloblastoma of the maxilla with extension to the skull base

Ameloblastomas are locally invasive benign tumors believed to originate from the developing dental lamina. Maxillary ameloblastomas are rare, comprising only 20% of all ameloblastomas. Of these, 90% arise posterior to the canine tooth. As tumors of the posterior maxilla grow slowly, symptoms are few until the tumor has reached considerable size. At the time of presentation there may be evidence of extension into anatomic areas adjacent to the posterior maxilla. Hemimaxillectomy through wide surgical exposure has the best chance of achieving tumor control. However, once the tumor has extended beyond the confines of the maxilla the prognosis for control of the disease is poor.
Novel applications of Endo GIA linear staplers during pancreaticoduodenectomy and total pancreatectomy

Pancreaticoduodenectomy and total pancreatectomy remain a formidable challenge to many surgeons. This report describes the utilization of Endo GIA linear staplers for division of the proximal jejunal mesentery and division of the uncinate process during pancreatic surgery. Their use may help to reduce undue bleeding during surgery, reduce total operative time, and ultimately reduce postoperative morbidity and mortality.
Unfavorable Course of Gastric Ulcer During Administration of ACTH and Cortisone

Summary Ulcer symptoms recurred soon after the administration of ACTH in two patients with gastric ulcer; in one a previously demonstrated crater increased in size; in the other case the ulcer recurred and perforated after 21 days of ACTH. In the third patient a huge gastric ulcer developed within 10 days after the administration of cortisone. An increased output of acid gastric juice was demonstrated in the two patients in whom such studies were made.
The Effects of Writing on Learning from Expository Text

While writing researchers and theorists have claimed that composing fosters learning, we need a more rigorous conceptualization of the effects of various writing tasks on learning. This study attem...
Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Surgery

Perioperative prophylaxis accounts for a substantial proportion of antibiotic use in acute-care hospitals. There is clinical evidence of its efficacy in a number of circumstances. These include hysterectomy, cesarean delivery, colorectal surgery, and some orthopedic procedures. Prophylaxis for cardiovascular surgery has not been evaluated rigorously enough to determine its efficacy. Because of the catastrophic consequences of serious infections following cardiovascular surgery, prophylaxis is widely used in this setting. There is relatively little information on the impact of prophylaxis on postoperative mortality, duration of hospitalization, or the costs of medical care. The studies that are available suggest that prophylaxis may reduce mortality and overall costs under some circumstances. Antibiotics with relatively long half-lives are theoretically attractive agents that merit careful evaluation in clinical trials. Many issues remain unresolved. The most important are the efficacy of prophylaxis in other settings, its impact on morbidity and costs, and the optimal agents and regimens.
Corporate Governance and the “Job Loss” Recovery:

The recent recovery continued a trend that started in the mid-1970s of a growing divergence between capital and labor incomes. This trend appears to be largely due to a shift in the balance of corporate governance. A growing concentration of financial assets among institutional investors was juxtaposed by a declining unionization rate. Consequently, institutional investors had the incentives and increasingly the ability to allocate a growing share of corporate resources towards capital, particularly in the form of share repurchases and dividend payouts instead.
Nutrition, Histone Epigenetic Marks, and Disease

The dietary intake of essential nutrients and bioactive food compounds is a process that occurs on a daily basis for the entire life span. Therefore, your diet has a great potential to cause changes in the epigenome. Known histone modifications include acetylation, methylation, biotinylation, poly(ADP-ribosylation), ubiquitination, and sumoylation. Some of these modifications depend directly on dietary nutrients. For other modifications, bioactive dietary compounds may alter the activities of enzymes that establish or remove histone marks, thereby altering the epigenome. This chapter provides an overview of diet-dependent epigenomic marks in histones and their links with human health.
A Comparison between Evolutionary Metaheuristics and Mathematical Optimization to Solve the Wells Placement Problem

The Wells Placement Problem (WPP) consists in choosing well locations within an oil reservoir grid to maximize the reservoir total oil production, subject to distance threshold between wells and number of wells cap constraints. A popular approach to WPP is Genetic Algorithms (GA). Alternatively, WPP has been approached in the literature through Mathematical Optimization. Here, we conduct a computational study of both methods and compare their solutions and performance. Our results indicate that, while GA can provide near-optimal solutions to instances of WPP, typically Mathematical Optimization provides better solutions within less computational time.
Impact of nonphysician staffing on outcomes in a medical ICU.

Background As the number of ICU beds and demand for intensivists increase, alternative solutions are needed to provide coverage for critically ill patients. The impact of different staffing models on the outcomes of patients in the medical ICU (MICU) remains unknown. In our study, we compare outcomes of nonphysician provider-based teams to those of medical house staff-based teams in the MICU. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of 590 daytime (7:00 am -7:00 pm ) admissions to two MICUs at one hospital. In one MICU staffed by nurse practitioners and physician assistants (MICU-NP/PA) there were nonphysicians (nurse practitioners and physicians assistants) during the day (7:00 am -7:00 pm ) with attending physician coverage overnight. In the other MICU, there were medicine residents (MICU-RES) (24 h/d). The outcomes investigated were hospital mortality, length of stay (LOS) (ICU, hospital), and posthospital discharge destination. Results Three hundred two patients were admitted to the MICU-NP/PA and 288 to the MICU-RES. Mortality probability model III (MPM 0 -III) predicted mortality was similar ( P = .14). There was no significant difference in hospital mortality (32.1% for MICU-NP/PA vs 32.3% for MICU-RES, P = .96), MICU LOS (4.22 ± 2.51 days for MICU-NP/PA vs 4.44 ± 3.10 days for MICU-RES, P = .59), or hospital LOS (14.01 ± 2.92 days for MICU-NP/PA vs 13.74 ± 2.94 days for MICU-RES, P = .86). Discharge to a skilled care facility (vs home) was similar (37.1% for MICU-NP/PA vs 32.5% for MICU-RES, P = .34). After multivariate adjustment, MICU staffing type was not associated with hospital mortality ( P = .26), MICU LOS ( P = .29), hospital LOS ( P = .19), or posthospital discharge destination ( P = .90). Conclusions Staffing models including daytime use of nonphysician providers appear to be a safe and effective alternative to the traditional house staff-based team in a high-acuity, adult ICU.
Communication Support through Multimodal Supplementation:A Scoping Review

Speech supplementation strategies improve spoken communication for people with motor speech disorders who experience reduced speech intelligibility. The purpose of this review was to summarize the ...
The Structure of the NPC1L1 N-Terminal Domain in a Closed Conformation

Background NPC1L1 is the molecular target of the cholesterol lowering drug Ezetimibe and mediates the intestinal absorption of cholesterol. Inhibition or deletion of NPC1L1 reduces intestinal cholesterol absorption, resulting in reduction of plasma cholesterol levels. Principal Findings Here we present the 2.8 A crystal structure of the N-terminal domain (NTD) of NPC1L1 in the absence of cholesterol. The structure, combined with biochemical data, reveals the mechanism of cholesterol selectivity of NPC1L1. Comparison to the cholesterol free and bound structures of NPC1(NTD) reveals that NPC1L1(NTD) is in a closed conformation and the sterol binding pocket is occluded from solvent. Conclusion The structure of NPC1L1(NTD) reveals a degree of flexibility surrounding the entrance to the sterol binding pocket, suggesting a gating mechanism that relies on multiple movements around the entrance to the sterol binding pocket.
Complications of gastrojejunal feeding tubes in children.

Abstract Background Long-term gastrojejunal (GJ) feeding is an increasingly popular alternative to gastric fundoplication for children with pathologic reflux, particularly those with neurologic impairment. We sought to evaluate morbidity associated with GJ feeding tubes in a large population of children. Materials and methods The records of all children who underwent placement of a GJ feeding tube in a large children's hospital between January 2005 and September 2013 were reviewed. Indications for GJ feedings were noted. Events including a requirement for tube replacement and intestinal complications attributable to a GJ tube that required a laparotomy were evaluated. Risk factors for morbidity were assessed. Results A total of 124 children underwent GJ tube placement at an average age of 5.0 y (2 mo–16 y). Of the total, 83 (66%) subjects were neurologically impaired and 108 (87%) had gastroesophageal reflux. Of those, 55 (44%) had undergone prior laparoscopic fundoplication. Persistent reflux symptoms occurred in 22 (17.6%). Subjects underwent an average of 2.75 tube replacements per year and those under 2 y old had almost four. Four children (3.2%) required emergent laparotomy for intestinal perforation due to a GJ tube. These subjects were significantly younger (12 mo) than those without perforations (60.6 mo, P Conclusions GJ feeding tubes were associated with notable morbidity ranging from persistent reflux to dislodgement and intestinal perforation. Together with issues of inconvenience with continuous feedings, these complications should be taken into account in children and particularly infants, in whom GJ feedings are being considered as an alternative to fundoplication.
Geometric optimization of nozzles for inclined injectors for di diesel engines

Low emission heavy-duty diesel engines are increasingly utilizing four-valve designs with vertical central injectors. However, two-valve DI diesel engines with inclined injectors offset from the centerline of the piston bowl are likely to continue to be used in medium and light duty applications for some time. In such situations, designing of the hole-type nozzle is very difficult and may cause unavoidable back-drilling problems. The purpose of this paper is to solve back-drilling problems connected with hole-type nozzles and improve fuel-air mixing which leads to more efficient combustion. Based on geometric considerations, this paper introduces single-cone hole-type nozzles, double-cone hole-type nozzles, and the critical principal angles for hole-type nozzles. The single-cone hole-type nozzles and double-cone hole-type nozzles can meet requirements for height of the spray impingement points and spray orifice distribution angle at the same time. The concept of the critical principal angle for hole-type nozzles provides a criterion for the determination of both the hole-type nozzle angles and the injector installation angle. This paper also gives an example to illustrate the application of the above methods. Finally, this paper systematically summarizes design methods for hole-type nozzles that fit the DI combustion chamber.
Inability of neonatal rabbit thymus to induce antibody producing capacity in bursectomized chickens.

SummaryImplantation of neonatal rabbit thymus in either surgically or hormonally bur-sectomized chickens has failed to restore im-munological competence as measured by their ability to produce antibodies to S. typhi-murium.
Adaptable ferroelectric memories for space applications

Test results on a 1 kilobit prototype hardened-by-design ferroelectric memory show that the total dose hardness exceeds 2 Mrads and latch-up immunity exceeds 163 LET. Based on the proven prototype memory design concepts, a 2 Mbit hardened-by-design ferroelectric memory for space applications is being designed for fabrication on the 0.13 /spl mu/m ferroelectric process of Texas Instruments. A subsequent chip design is expected to be at a 32 Mbit density. Using die stack packaging techniques, components at densities up to 256 Mbits based on this design may be developed. The basic ferroelectric memory core can be combined with on-chip interface circuitry to emulate any number of traditional semiconductor memory architectures, including SRAM, SDRAM, EEPROM and Flash memory, for applications ranging from small boot memories to high-density mass memories. The very fast read and write times of ferroelectric memory, coupled with the ability to trade off internal write voltage with retention and endurance, enable an adaptable ferroelectric memory technology. Texas Instrument's design rules for ferroelectric memory processes at 0.13 /spl mu/m and 0.09 /spl mu/m are competitive with the most aggressive design rules used for other semiconductor memory types.
Portable and Wearable Dialysis Devices for the Treatment of Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease

There is a growing need for a practical “around the clock” solution that significantly increases time on dialysis while increasing efficiency and reducing overall cost (which is compounded by the need for dedicated manpower and facilities). The next leap forward in renal replacement therapy, short of a kidney transplant, would be to provide a dialysis system which offers continuous treatment, is wearable and truly portable, and allows patients the freedom to resume their daily activities. There is currently no device available on the market that meets these criteria, but there are several in various stages of development. This chapter discusses the current advancements in portable and wearable dialysis technologies.
Differential Susceptibility of Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis) and Domestic Sheep (Ovis aries) Neutrophils to Mannheimia haemolytica Leukotoxin is not due to Differential Expression of Cell Surface CD18

Bighornsheep ( Ovis canadensis ) are more susceptible to pneumonia caused by Mannheimia haemolytica than are domestic sheep ( Ovis aries ). Leukotoxin produced by M. haemolytica is the principal virulence factor involved in pneumonia pathogenesis. Although leukotoxin is cytolytic to all subsets of ruminant leukocytes, neutrophils are the most susceptible subset. Bighorn sheep neutrophils are four- to eightfold more susceptible to leukotoxin-induced cytolysis than are domestic sheep neutrophils. We hypothesized that the higher susceptibility of bighorn sheep neutrophils, in comparison to domestic sheep neutrophils, is due to higher expression of CD18, the receptor for leukotoxin on leukocytes. Our objective was to quantify CD18 expression on neutrophils of bighorn sheep and domestic sheep. Cell-surface CD18 expression on bighorn sheep and domestic sheep neutrophils was measured as antibody binding capacity of cells by flow cytometric analysis with two fluorochrome-conjugated anti-CD18 monoclonal antibodies (BAQ30A and HUH82A) and microspheres. Contrary to our expectations, CD18 expression was higher (P<0.0001) with monoclonal antibody BAQ30A and was higher (P<0.0002) as well with monoclonal antibody HUH80A on domestic sheep neutrophils in comparison to bighorn sheep neutrophils. These findings suggest that the higher in vitro susceptibility to leukotoxin of bighorn sheep neutrophils compared to domestic sheep neutrophils is not due to higher expression of the leukotoxin receptor CD18 on bighorn sheep neutrophils.
Early Repolarization in Normal Adolescents is Common.

In adults with structurally normal hearts, the early repolarization pattern (ERP) on electrocardiogram (ECG) may be associated with an increased risk of sudden cardiac death. The prevalence and significance of the ERP in children is unknown. This study examines the prevalence of the ERP, the population in which it is found, and whether there exists any correlation with increased LV mass or family history of significant cardiac events. This was a secondary review of data obtained from healthy adolescents undergoing a limited ECG and transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) as part of a cardiac screening study. Subjects were excluded if ECG revealed known arrhythmic syndromes or TTE revealed structural abnormalities. ERP was defined as (1) notching or slurring of the terminal QRS; (2) elevation of the QRS-ST junction ≥1 mV; and (3) upwardly concave positive T-wave. Left ventricular (LV) mass was defined as mass/height2.7. Patient demographics, LV mass, family history of sudden death, arrhythmia, and/or ICD/pacemaker placement were compared for subjects with and without ERP on ECG. Data from 575 subjects (median age 15, range 13–18; 36% female; 93% Caucasian) were reviewed. The incidence of ERP was 40% (n = 228) and was seen in the inferior, lateral, or combination of these leads in 42, 10, and 48% of subjects with ERP, respectively. There was no difference in gender (p = 0.7), race (p = 0.7), age (p = 0.3), history of syncope (p = 0.2), LV mass (p = 0.8), family history of (a) sudden death (p = 0.5), (b) arrhythmia (p = 0.2), or (c) ICD/pacemaker requirement (p = 0.8) in subjects with ERP versus those without. However, a greater percentage of patients with ERP were noted to play football, when compared to those without ERP (34 vs. 13%, p < 0.001). ERP is common in healthy adolescents, and does not correlate with concerning personal/family history or elevated LV mass. Longitudinal studies are required to determine whether ERP in childhood confers an increased mortality risk.
Outcome of prenatally diagnosed central nervous system malformations in a tertiary center in Singapore

Background: Central nervous malformations are associated with major morbidity and mortality in infants and children. Knowledge of the data about their outcome and neurodisability will help in perinatal counseling and aid in parental decision-making. Objective: To study the fetal and neonatal characteristics of prenatally diagnosed central nervous system (CNS) malformations and the neurodevelopmental outcome of the survivors over 5years. Methods: Maternal and neonatal records of prenatally diagnosed CNS malformations were retrospectively reviewed over five years (January 2005 till December 2009). The relevant fetal and neonatal data were collected from the database maintained by the birth defect registry. The long-term neurodevelopment data was obtained from case records. Results: There were 116 cases of fetal structural CNS malformations. Termination of pregnancy or fetal deaths occurred in 80/116 (69%) of cases, of which 68% had Neural tube defects (NTD). There were 36 live births, of which six infants died of anencephaly and were not included in the study. Among 30 live births 17% of infants needed ventilator support and 17% had neurosurgical intervention. On follow up 37% of the cohort had neurodevelopmental delay, 10% died, 30% had normal neurodevelopmental outcome and 23% defaulted on follow-up. Conclusions: In two-thirds of the fetuses of prenatally diagnosed CNS malformations, termination of pregnancy or fetal death occurred. Nearly half of the survivors who were followed up had a composite outcome of death or global neurodevelopmental delay and need for support services.
Comprehensive Genomic Profiling of a Rare Thyroid Follicular Dendritic Cell Sarcoma

We previously reported an extremely rare case of follicular dendritic cell sarcoma (FDCS) presented as a thyroid mass. Given the rarity of this disease, there are no personalized and molecularly targeted treatment options due to the lack of knowledge in the genomic makeup of the tumor. A 44-year-old white woman was diagnosed with an extranodal FDCS in thyroid. The patient underwent a total thyroidectomy, central compartment dissection, parathyroid re-implantation, and adjuvant radiation therapy. Tumor DNA sequencing of 236 genes by FoundationOne panel found truncating mutations in PTEN and missense mutations in RET and TP53. However, patient-matched germline DNA was not sequenced which is critical for identification of true somatic mutations. Furthermore, the FoundationOne panel doesn't measure genomic rearrangements which have been shown to be abundant in sarcomas and are associated with sarcoma tumorigenesis and progression. In the current study, we carried out comprehensive genomic sequencing of the tumor, adjacent normal tissues, and patient-matched blood, in an effort to understand the genomic makeup of this rare extranodal FDCS and to identify potential therapeutic targets. Eighty-one somatic point mutations were identified in tumor but not in adjacent normal tissues or blood. A clonal truncating mutation in the CLTCL1 gene, which stabilizes the mitotic spindle, was likely a driver mutation of tumorigenesis and could explain the extensive copy number aberrations (CNAs) and genomic rearrangements in the tumor including a chr15/chr17 local chromothripsis resulted in 6 expressed fusion genes. The fusion gene HDGFRP3→SHC4 led to a 200-fold increase in the expression of oncogene SHC4 which is a potential target of the commercial drug Dasatinib. Missense mutations in ATM and splice-site mutation in VEGFR1 were also detected in addition to the TP53 missense mutation reported by FoundationOne.
FTO, m6Am, and the hypothesis of reversible epitranscriptomic mRNA modifications

The fate of mRNA is regulated by epitranscriptomic nucleotide modifications, the most abundant of which is N6 -methyladenosine (m6 A). Although the pattern and distribution of m6 A in mRNA is mediated by specific methyltransferases, a recent hypothesis is that specific demethylases or 'erasers' allow m6 A to be dynamically reversed by signaling pathways. In this Review, we discuss the data in support and against this model. New insights into the function of fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO), the original enzyme thought to be an m6 A eraser, reveal that its physiologic target is not m6 A, but instead is N6 ,2'-O-dimethyladenosine (m6 Am ). Another m6 A demethylase, ALKBH5, appears to have functions limited to sperm development in normal mice. Overall, the majority of the data suggest that m6 A is generally not reversible, although m6 A may be susceptible to demethylation in pathophysiological states such as cancer.
A History of Exile in the Roman Republic: Topics of Exile

ACCOMPANIMENT INTO EXILE The journey into exile was certainly a heart-wrenching event. The fugitive was leaving behind his homeland, his friends, and his family, perhaps forever. While banishment could be a lonely experience, exiles did not make this fateful trip by themselves. Indeed, a banished man probably went abroad with a retinue of freedmen, slaves, and perhaps a free friend or two. Our extant sources provide us only a few glimpses of the companions that accompanied an exile. Although Cicero's correspondence from his exile in 58/57 is our most detailed account of the personal life of an exile, the author makes little mention of those who journeyed with him. Perhaps his silence about his associates indicates his sense of loss and isolation as an exul . His letters occasionally speak of companions (generally freedmen), but he gives us no details. Cicero's friend Sicca accompanied him from Vibo to Brundisium and had apparently told the orator he would stay with him on his journey, but returned home before Cicero crossed over into Greece. Later epistles in the Ciceronian corpus provide us with a more detailed picture of an exile's retinue. During his exile from 47 to 45, M. Claudius Marcellus had some freeborn Roman companions; perhaps they were also defeated Pompeians. One of them, P. Magius Cilo, murdered Marcellus over a personal dispute at Athens while they were preparing to return to Rome in May 45. Marcellus also had several freedmen and slaves with him while in exile.
Stochastic Processing Networks

Stochastic processing networks arise as models in manufacturing, telecommunications, transportation, computer systems, the customer service industry, and biochemical reaction networks. Common characteristics of these networks are that they have entities—such as jobs, packets, vehicles, customers, or molecules—that move along routes, wait in buffers, receive processing from various resources, and are subject to the effects of stochastic variability through such quantities as arrival times, processing times, and routing protocols. The mathematical theory of queueing aims to understand, analyze, and control congestion in stochastic processing networks. In this article, we begin by summarizing some of the highlights in the development of the theory of queueing prior to 1990; this includes some exact analysis and development of approximate models for certain queueing networks. We then describe some surprises of the early 1990s and ensuing developments of the past 25 years related to the use of approximate mode...
Inertial-Electrostatic Confinement: An Approach to Burning Advanced Fuels

Inertial-Electrostatic Confinement (IEC) is currently undergoing renewed experimental and theoretical study as a fusion reactor scheme that can burn advanced fuels such as D-3He and p-11B. The goal...
Measurements on the Diffusion Length of Thermal Neutrons in Water from 25 to 296°C

AbstractThe diffusion length of thermal neutrons has been measured in water over the range 25.9 to 295.3°C in the pressure vessel of the KAPL High Temperature Critical Assembly. The diffusion lengt...
Microscopy of Living Bone Marrow In Situ. II. Influence of the Microenvironment on Hemopoiesis

The present study examined in vivo the dynamic changes of hypocellular bone marrow during increased hemopoietic activity induced by phlebotomy or administration of erythropoietin. During increased hemopoietic activity, large venules and venous sinusoids located within the marrow spaces were replaced by dilated or polygonal networks of sinusoids supplied by small arterioles or capillaries that coursed from surrounding spicules of bone into the marrow spaces. An increased cellularity (hemopoietic and fat cells) was associated with this change in vascularity. The results suggest the presence of two functional parts of the microvascular system in bone marrow. The first is associated with hemopoietic areas of the marrow and is erythropoietin-sensitive; the second, with regeneration and resorption of bone. The presence of cancellous bone and the morphology of the microvascular system may determine the extent of hemopoietic activity of bone marrow. During increased hemopoietic activity, the intimate relationship between the microvascular system, bone spicules, and the developing cellular compartment suggests local factors resident in bone are transported to these proliferating cells to exert a hemopoietic effect.