cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of ulnar-shortening osteotomy with a new Trimed dynamic compression system versus the Synthes dynamic compression system: clinical study.

Purpose Ulnar-shortening osteotomy has become common in the treatment of symptomatic positive ulnar variance. Our goal was to evaluate prospectively a new dynamic compression plating system in comparison with a commonly used dynamic compression system. In contrast with other systems, the new system uses a slotted hole that enables fixation of the plate to the bone prior to performing the osteotomy, a fitted compression clamp, and a lag screw. Cutting guides that attach directly to plate eliminate the need for freehand osteotomies. Methods Thirty-seven patients were treated with a 3.5-mm, 6-hole dynamic compression plate with distraction device (Synthes, Paoli, PA) and compared with 17 patients treated with a new dynamic compression system manufactured by Trimed (Valencia, CA). Procedure length was recorded. The patients were evaluated for amount of shortening, pain, range of motion, grip strength, time to union, and return to work as well as with validated outcome measures. Results Improvement was found in all measures although no difference was found between the 2 groups other than significantly shorter length of operation with the Trimed system (a mean of 2 hours with the Synthes system vs 1 hour with the Trimed system). Ten plates were removed in the Synthes group and 4 plates were removed in the Trimed group because of symptomatic prominence of the plate. There were no infections, delayed unions, or nonunions in either group. Conclusions The new Trimed plating system for ulnar shortening was found to be as effective as the Synthes system and with a shorter procedure time. This may be related to the different measuring periods, although years of practice with the Synthes technique preceded this study. We believe the shortened procedure time for the Trimed system is due to its technical advantages. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic III.
Café-au-lait patches and senile plaques: How APPt the connection?

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic disease caused by mutations in the NF1 gene, which encodes the protein neurofibromin. Patients exhibit characteristic hyperpigmented patches called cafe-au-lait patches. Melanocytes of NF1 patients differ from normal human melanocytes, but no differences account completely for lesional hyperpigmentation. An association between β-amyloid precursor protein (APP) and neurofibromin, and their localization to the melanosome, may help explain the development of cafe-au-lait patches.
The relative mobility of natural (Th, Pb and Po) and fallout (Pu, Am, Cs) radionuclides in the coastal marine environment: results from model ecosystems (MERL) and Narragansett Bay

The relative mobility of nuclides of Pb, Th, Pu, and Cs, which are widely used as geochemical tracers for sedimentation and bioturbation. was investigated in artificial microcosm tanks (MERL) and in Narragansett Bay. Their mobility was characterized by their removal rates from the water column, their affinity toward particles and their degree of penetration into the surface sediments. Pb, Th, and Pu transport was controlled predominantly by the affinity of these elements to particles, and the transport parameters of the particles themselves (i.e. sediment resuspension and mixing rates). Because of its low distribution coefficient, transport of Cs was controlled by molecular diffusion through pore water in the winter, while in summer, Cs transport was enhanced due to bioturbation. The increase with depth of the CsPu ratio in core profiles of MERL and Narragansett Bay sediments is thus caused primarily by the higher mobility of Cs.
Annual and semiannual oscillations of stratospheric ozone

The global structures of annual- (AOs) and semiannual-oscillations (SAOs) of stratospheric ozone are examined by spherical harmonic analysis of the data obtained from the Nimbus-7 solar backscattered UV-radiation (SBUV) measurements for the period from November 1978 to October 1980. The results indicate: (i) the vertical distribution of the equatorial ozone SAO has a broad maximum of the order of 0.5 (mixing ratio in µg/g); and the maximum appears earlier at high altitude (shifting from May [and November] at 0.3 mb to November [and May] at 40 mb); (ii) amplitudes of the polar ozone SAOs are maximum at 2 mb, which is 2 µg/g at 75° N and 0.8 µg/g at 75° S, respectively; (iii) vertical distributions of the polar ozone AOs and SAOs show two peaks in amplitude with a minimum (nodal layer) where the phase changes rapidly with altitude.
Relative values of coals for electric power generation

Abstract A model has been developed to estimate the value of steam coals. Relative values are established by equating the total costs of producing electric power with each of the coals. The model can be used by mine operators to estimate the value of their coal to a targeted utility user in comparison with any other competitive coals available to the user. The model also provides guidance to utility users in arriving at competitive estimates for available coals. The total cost of power generation includes the price of coal at the mine-mouth and transportation cost from mine to users, net boiler heat production cost, plant-investment costs, maintenance and operating costs, and insurance and taxes, with economic parameters characteristic of utility financing. Taken into account is the impact of the physical and chemical properties of each coal on its combustion properties and on the plant investment needed for its use. The model involves the use of spreadsheet techniques and incorporates 34 separately specifiable parameters that are fully interactive. Execution times are of the order of 1 sec. Examples are provided in which several coals in four user locations are compared in both new and older power plants.
Indoor air quality in Michigan schools.

Indoor air quality (IAQ) parameters in 64 elementary and middle school classrooms in Michigan were examined for the purposes of assessing ventilation rates, levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and bioaerosols, air quality differences within and between schools, and emission sources. In each classroom, bioaerosols, VOCs, CO2, relative humidity, and temperature were monitored over one workweek, and a comprehensive walkthough survey was completed. Ventilation rates were derived from CO2 and occupancy data. Ven- tilation was poor in many of the tested classrooms, e.g., CO2 concentrations often exceeded 1000 ppm and sometimes 3000 ppm. Most VOCs had low con- centrations (mean of individual species <4.5 lg/m 3 ); bioaerosol concentrations were moderate (<6500 count per m 3 indoors, <41,000 count per m 3 outdoors). The variability of CO2, VOC, and bioaerosol concentrations within schools exceeded the variability between schools. These findings suggest that none of the sampled rooms were contaminated and that no building-wide contamination sources were present. However, localized IAQ problems might remain in spaces where contaminant sources are concentrated and that are poorly ventilated.
Rotifers as experimental tools for investigating aging

Comparative biogerontology has much to contribute to the study of aging. A broad range of aging rates has evolved to meet environmental challenges, and understanding these adaptations can produce valuable insights into aging. The supra Phylum Lophotrochozoa is particularly understudied and has several groups that have intriguing patterns of aging. Members of the lophotrochozoan phylum Rotifera are particularly useful for aging studies because cohort life tables can be conducted with them easily, and biochemical and genomic tools are available for examining aging mechanisms. This paper reviews a variety of caloric restriction regimens, small molecule inhibitors, and dietary supplements that extend rotifer lifespan, as well as important interactions between caloric restriction and genotype, antioxidant supplements, and TOR and JNK pathways, and the use of RNAi to identify key genes involved in modulating the aging response. Examples of how rapamycin and JNK inhibitor exposure keeps mortality rates low during the reproductive phase of the life cycle are presented, and the ease of conducting life table experiments to screen natural products from red algae for life extending effects is illustrated. Finally, experimental evolution to produce longer-lived rotifer individuals is demonstrated, and future directions to determine the genetic basis of aging are discussed.
Earth Matters: Land as Material and Metaphor in the Arts of Africa

The exhibition Earth Matters: Land as Material and Metaphor in the Arts of Africa opened at the National Museum of African Art and Enid A. Haupt Garden, Smithsonian Institution, on Earth Day (April 22) 2013 and has been extended through February 23, 2014. Curator Karen E. Milbourne provides a preview of this first major exhibition and scholarly endeavor to examine comprehensively the rich relationship between African artists from more than twenty-five African countries and the land on which they live, work, and frame their days. Focusing on the time period from 1807—when the international slave trade was made illegal—to the present day, the exhibition features more than forty artists, including Berni Searle, Wangechi Mutu, Tchif, Christine Dixie, Hassan Echair, Batoul S’Himi, Sammy Baloji, Nyaba Leon Ouedraogo, El Anatsui, and Ghada Amer.
Effects of neonatal polychlorinated biphenyl exposure on female sexual behavior

The effects of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) on development and reproduction are well documented. However, very little is known about the effects of PCBs on sexual behavior. In this study, we examined the effects of two commercial PCB mixtures, Aroclor 1221 (A1221) and Aroclor 1254 (A1254), on the development of female sexual behavior and of the incertohypothalamic dopaminergic cells (A11 and A13) in Long-Evans rats. Neonatal exposure to A1254 significantly reduced sexual receptivity and reduced the female's latency to approach a male after an intromission. Neonatal treatment with A1221 did not affect female sexual behavior nor did treatment of adult females with A1221 or A1254. Since sexual behavior is affected by dopamine and since PCBs have been reported to alter dopamine content in the brain, we examined the effects of A1221 or A1254 on dopaminergic cells in the incertohypothalamic region of neonatally exposed rats. None of the treatments significantly affected the number of A11 or A13 neurons that were immunoreactive for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) or the expression of Fos (i.e., the product of the immediate early gene c-fos) in these dopaminergic neurons. Therefore, the disruption of behavior induced by neonatal treatment with A1254 does not appear to be mediated by toxic effects of the mixture on incertohypothalamic dopaminergic systems.
Nature and Ethnicity in East European Paganism: An Environmental Ethic of the Religious Right?

Paganism is frequently cast by Anglo-American scholars as a form of “nature religion.” Some have also identified its political leanings as left rather than right. This article tests these preconceptions against the evidence provided by East European, especially Ukrainian, Paganism or “Native Faith.” The author examines Native Faith notions of nature as land, as “blood,” and as “tradition,” and argues that these are underpinned by a concept of “territorialized ethnicity”—the belief that ethnic communities are natural and biological entities rooted in specific geographical territories. The article traces this idea to its precursors in European and Soviet thought, and suggests that it may be more commonly found around the world than Western theorists presume. In light of such a different understanding of nature, the concept of “nature religion” may need to be rethought.
Effect of Aging of Serum on Quantitation of Complement Component C3

Concentrations of the third component of complement (C3, β1C globulin) in serum may vary considerably in patients with certain diseases. Its accurate measurement is therefore important medically. For some time it has been recognized that the C3 in serum stored at room temperature breaks down into two proteins, β1A and α2D. Monospecific antisera have been made to the three antigenic determinants of C3, designated A, B, and D. An anti-C3 supplied commercially is monospecific for the A determinant, which is shared by C3 and its breakdown product β1A. With C3 breakdown and formation of β1A, depletion of antibody to the A determinant is increased to 1.6 times the depletion by native C3. Therefore, the previous history of a serum can affect the "apparent" concentration of C3, with values spuriously increased to a variable degree, in serum that has been stored. The effect of time, temperature, and conditions of storage on this increase are discussed.
A framework for distributed content-based web services notification in Grid systems

We describe a content-based distributed notification service for Publish/Subscribe communication that implements the WS-Notification (WSN) standards. The notification service is built on a messaging framework that supports an associative rendezvous messaging mechanism on a structured overlay of peer nodes. The entire system acts as a notification broker, so that notification publishers and subscribers outside the network can achieve loosely coupled communication through a decentralized, scalable service, by interacting with any of the broker peers. Self-optimizing mechanisms are built into the framework to reduce notification traffic within as well as from the peer network. We describe the framework and its performance and evaluate the effectiveness of the self-optimizing mechanisms.
Survival function of ERK1/2 as IL-3-activated, staurosporine-resistant Bcl2 kinases

Bcl2 phosphorylation at Ser-70 may be required for the full and potent suppression of apoptosis in IL-3-dependent myeloid cells and can result from agonist activation of mitochondrial protein kinase C (PKC). Paradoxically, expression of exogenous Bcl2 can protect parental cells from apoptosis induced by the potent PKC inhibitor, staurosporine (stauro). High concentrations of stauro of up to 1 microM only partially inhibit IL-3-stimulated Bcl2 phosphorylation but completely block PKC-mediated Bcl2 phosphorylation in vitro. These data indicate a role for a stauro-resistant Bcl2 kinase (SRK). We show that aurintricarboxylic acid (ATA), a nonpeptide activator of cellular MEK/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinase, can induce Ser-70 phosphorylation of Bcl2 and support survival of cells expressing wild-type but not the phosphorylation-incompetent S70A mutant Bcl2. A role for a MEK/MAPK as a responsible SRK was implicated because the highly specific MEK/MAPK inhibitor, PD98059, also can only partially inhibit IL-3-induced Bcl2 phosphorylation, whereas the combination of PD98059 and stauro completely blocks phosphorylation and synergistically enhances apoptosis. p44MAPK/extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 (ERK1) and p42 MAPK/ERK2 are activated by IL-3, colocalize with mitochondrial Bcl2, and can directly phosphorylate Bcl2 on Ser-70 in a stauro-resistant manner both in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggest a role for the ERK1/2 kinases as SRKs. Thus, the SRKs can serve to functionally link the IL-3-stimulated proliferative and survival signaling pathways and, in a novel capacity, may explain how Bcl2 can suppress stauro-induced apoptosis. In addition, although the mechanism of regulation of Bcl2 by phosphorylation is not yet clear, our results indicate that phosphorylation may functionally stabilize the Bcl2-Bax heterodimerization.
ANOSOV OBSTRUCTIONS IN HIGHER DIMENSION

In some cases the Anosov cocycle of Hurder and Katok can be found in higher dimensional symplectic systems as well.
EEG patterns during and following extended sleep in young adults.

Abstract Sleep EEG and eye movement were recorded in 21 normal males aged 20.3–29.3 years beginning at 11:00 p.m. on 3 consecutive nights with 8, 12 and 8 h in bed on adaptation (A), extended (E), and recovery (R) nights, respectively. On the E night, NREMP durations were roughly equal in the first 3 cycles, fell sharply between NREMPs 3 and 5 and were at about the same level in NREMPs 5–6 . These and other data suggest that NREMP durations approach an asymptote in the fifth NREMP. On the R night, NREMP 1–4 durations were not significantly different from the corresponding values on the E night. As expected from the work of others, the increased sleep (and decreased waking) in the 24 h period preceding the R night was associated with a reduction in stage 4 EEG. Surprisingly, this effect was limited to the first NREMP; both visually scored delta sleep and computer measurements of 0.5–3 c/sec activity showed significantly lower values in NREMP 1 on the R night with no differences between E and R nights for NREMPs 2–4 . Analysis of REM sleep confirmed previous observations by Aserinsky (1969) and Verdone (1968). In agreement with the former investigator, we found that REMP durations declined after reaching a maximum in the fourth REMP and that the late REMPs showed an increase in eye movement density. In agreement with both Aserinsky and Verdone, we found that a huge increase in REM sleep above habitual levels when sleep is extended has virtually no effect on the onset, amount or distribution of REM on the following night. In spite of almost 30 years of research since the discovery of REM sleep by Aserinsky and Kleitman, the quantitative relations between the duration of waking and the amount and temporal characteristics of EEG sleep patterns have not been fully established. We believe that the application of computer as well as visual measurement and the analysis of sleep by physiological units (NREMPs and REMPs) will prove useful tools for describing these relationships.
Interrater Agreement of the Individualized Behavior Rating Scale Tool

Data assessment is critical for determining student behavior change in response to individualized behavior interventions in schools. This study examined the interrater agreement of the Individualized Behavior Rating Scale Tool (IBRST), a perceptual direct behavior rating tool that was used by typical school personnel to record behavior occurrence in students requiring individualized interventions. Two independent observers (teacher and data collector) used the IBRST to rate student-specific problem and appropriate behaviors during specified observation times. Data were collected across 19 students and agreement between raters was compared. Resulting linear- and quadratic-weighted kappa coefficients indicated generally adequate agreement between raters on problem behaviors and appropriate behaviors. When ratings were categorized into more or less salient behaviors, less than adequate agreement (<.60) was found for some behaviors that were less salient. Agreement remained stable from baseline to intervention. Implications for practice, limitations of the study, and directions for future research are discussed.
Collective responsibility and the state

This article considers the question of whether and to what degree citizens are responsible collectively for the actions of their state. In contrast to current accounts of collective responsibility, which focus on causality or affect as means for transmitting responsibility, the article develops an alternative account, the ‘authorized state’ model. This model, drawn from core intuitions of the social contract tradition, sees collective responsibility as being transmitted through the state as the agent or representative of its citizens. Having developed this model as an ideal type, the article then assesses under what circumstances the model is most applicable. The article finally applies the model to the US war in Iraq to assess the collective responsibility of US citizens for the outcomes of that war.
Pregabalin: A New Neuromodulator with Broad Therapeutic Indications

OBJECTIVETo review pregabalin's pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and adverse effects in the treatment of neuropathic pain, epilepsy, and anxiety.DATA SOURCESA MEDLINE search (1993–October 2005) for peer-reviewed English-language publications was performed. Abstracts from professional meetings were also included. Key terms were anxiety, diabetic neuropathy, epilepsy, neuropathic pain, postherpetic neuralgia, pregabalin, and seizures.STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTIONBasic pharmacology data were extracted from animal studies; pharmacokinetic data were extracted from human studies. Multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group studies were included to describe the efficacy and adverse effects of pregabalin.DATA SYNTHESISPregabalin is a new agent that exerts its pharmacodynamic effect by modulating voltage-gated calcium channels. Pregabalin has a linear pharmacokinetic profile. It is completely absorbed, not bound to plasma proteins, not metabolized, and eliminated unchanged through ...
Global patterns in the vulnerability of ecosystems to vegetation shifts due to climate change.

Aim Climate change threatens to shift vegetation, disrupting ecosystems and damaging human well-being. Field observations in boreal, temperate and tropical ecosystems have detected biome changes in the 20th century, yet a lack of spatial data on vulnerability hinders organizations that manage natural resources from identifying priority areas for adaptation measures. We explore potential methods to identify areas vulnerable to vegetation shifts and potential refugia. Location Global vegetation biomes. Methods We examined nine combinations of three sets of potential indicators of the vulnerability of ecosystems to biome change: (1) observed changes of 20thcentury climate, (2) projected 21st-century vegetation changes using the MC1 dynamic global vegetation model under three Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) emissions scenarios, and (3) overlap of results from (1) and (2). Estimating probability density functions for climate observations and confidence levels for vegetation projections, we classified areas into vulnerability classes based on IPCC treatment of uncertainty. Results One-tenth to one-half of global land may be highly (confidence 0.80‐ 0.95) to very highly (confidence ! 0.95) vulnerable. Temperate mixed forest, boreal conifer and tundra and alpine biomes show the highest vulnerability, often due to potential changes in wildfire. Tropical evergreen broadleaf forest and desert biomes show the lowest vulnerability. Main conclusions Spatial analyses of observed climate and projected vegetation indicate widespread vulnerability of ecosystems to biome change. A mismatch between vulnerability patterns and the geographic priorities of natural resource organizations suggests the need to adapt management plans. Approximately a billion people live in the areas classified as vulnerable.
Spatial and temporal trends in freshwater appropriation for natural gas development in Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale Play

We characterize the appropriation of surface water for the extraction of natural gas from Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale, and we examine the influences of these diversions on stream flows at 300 sites. Our analysis reveals that permitted withdrawals range from 50 m3/d to more than 18,000 m3/d and that water is taken from streams of all sizes, from headwater streams to eighth-order rivers. Flow alteration varies inversely with watershed area and, for larger streams, is compounded by upstream withdrawals. The ratio of daily permitted withdrawal to median stream flow ranges from 0.0001 to unity, although low flows in most, but not all, smaller streams are protected by pass-by flow requirements. Temporal changes in surface water withdrawals track gas well completion activity, rather than changes in operational strategies, and while reuse of wastewater has increased since 2009, freshwater accounted for 75% of water used in hydraulic fracturing through the peak in gas well completion activity.
Compressive force promotes sox9, type II collagen and aggrecan and inhibits IL-1beta expression resulting in chondrogenesis in mouse embryonic limb bud mesenchymal cells

The initial modeling and subsequent development of the skeleton is controlled by complex gene-environment interactions. Biomechanical forces may be one of the major epigenetic factors that determine the form and differentiation of skeletal tissues. In order to test the hypothesis that static compressive forces are transduced into molecular signals during early chondrogenesis, we have developed a unique three-dimensional collagen gel cell culture system which is permissive for the proliferation and differentiation of chondrocytes. Mouse embryonic day 10 (E10) limb buds were microdissected and dissociated into cells which were then cultured within a collagen gel matrix and maintained for up to 10 days. Static compressive forces were exerted onto these cultures. The time course for expression pattern and level for cartilage specific markers, type II collagen and aggrecan, and regulators of chondrogenesis, Sox9 and IL-1beta, were analyzed and compared with non-compressed control cultures. Under compressive conditions, histological evaluation showed an apparent acceleration in the rate and extent of chondrogenesis. Quantitatively, there was a significant 2- to 3-fold increase in type II collagen and aggrecan expression beginning at day 5 of culture and the difference was maintained through 10 days of cultures. Compressive force also causes an elevated level of Sox9, a transcriptional activator of type II collagen. In contrast, the expression and accumulation of IL-1beta, a transcriptional repressor of type II collagen was down-regulated. We conclude that static compressive forces promote chondrogenesis in embryonic limb bud mesenchyme, and propose that the signal transduction from a biomechanical stimuli can be mediated by a combination of positive and negative effectors of cartilage specific extracellular matrix macromolecules.
Bounding Projective Dimension

This paper is a survey of progress on Stillman’s Question: Let J be a homogeneous ideal in a standard graded polynomial ring over a field. Is there a bound on the projective dimension of J depending only on the number of elements in a minimal system of homogenoeus generators of J and their degrees (in particular, independent of the number of variables)?
Phylogeny of the Wormfishes (Teleostei: Gobioidei: Microdesmidae)

Abstract Microdesmidae (sensu stricto) includes 30 species of elongate, cryptic, benthic gobioid fishes. The phylogenetic relationships among microdesmid species have been unknown, and the sister taxon to Microdesmidae has been a matter of debate. In this study, the relationships of microdesmid species are hypothesized based on morphological characters, analyzed with cladistic parsimony methods. Characters previously used as evidence for a sister-taxon relationship between Microdesmidae, s.s., and five genera classified as a subfamily (Ptereleotrinae) in an expanded Microdesmidae are reexamined and found to be invalid. Microdesmidae s.s. is restored, including only Cerdale, Clarkichthys, Microdesmus, Gunnellichthys, and Paragunnellichthys. Monophyly of the microdesmid genera is confirmed, and characters diagnosing each genus, and other clades revealed in this analysis, are discussed. The five genera formerly placed in Ptereleotrinae are referred to Ptereleotridae (incertae sedis within Gobioidei), bringin...
Judicial Mediation: How It Works through Pre-Trial Conference

T THE I94I session of the Illinois General Assembly, Section 582 was added to the Civil Practice Act. It reads as follows: "Subject to such rules as the Supreme Court may promulgate the court in any action may in its discretion direct the attorneys for the parties to appear before it for a pre-trial conference to consider any matter as may aid in the disposition of the action."' This simple permissive statute is not so feeble as it appears to be at first glance. True, it is not mandatory, and only emphasizes a discretion inherent in the courts, but it does achieve the following objectives: (i) by giving legislative sanction to pre-trial conferences the practice became clothed with a garb of respectability; (2) responsibility for non-action is placed upon the courts; and (3) the courts which desire to promote the practice are enabled to do it effectively. No such legislative action was necessary to authorize holding pre-trial conferences. Each court could by rule provide for them, and each judge could with or without rules hold a pre-trial conference in any case. In fact, some judges have for many years followed the practice of calling the contending lawyers into chambers for an informal discussion of the case before proceeding with the formal trial. But without legislation the practice would not have reached the position of importance it now holds, primarily for these reasons: (i) the bar is slow to accept change, and the courts were powerless to compel attendance of representatives authorized to act for the mere purpose of conferring; (2) the courts were without power to bind the parties to the results of any conference; and above all (3) many judges scoffed at the procedure, looked upon it as lacking legal sanction, and regarded it as something beneath the dignity of the court. Even long after the practice had gained acceptance in other jurisdictions and received the blessings of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure,2 many judges in Illinois took (and some still take) the position that participation
Thin-Film Signal and Power Redistribution Layers Based on AL-X and Cu

Use of unpackaged die in advanced integrated systems (i.e., 3-D integrated systems) calls for dense interconnection schemes with controlled impedance for high-speed signal routing and minimal impedance for efficient power distribution. We have evaluated a new material set for use in a thin-film-based redistribution layer (RDL) that consists of Asahi Glass AL-X spin-on low-k dielectric polymer and electroplated copper metallization. This technology allows fan-out and interconnection of high-speed signals and power to/from die pads on pitches sufficiently less than 100 μm directly to companion die over short distances or for transition to underlying board metallization for longer transmission distances that may require lower signal loss. This technology is demonstrated using Si wafers onto which the thin-film RDL is fabricated. We have developed and described the fabrication procedures used to construct multiple interconnected layers of AL-X / Cu, which are compatible with standard wafer level packaging (WL...
An implantable compound-releasing capsule triggered on demand by ultrasound

Implantable devices have a large potential to improve human health, but they are often made of biofouling materials that necessitate special coatings, rely on electrical connections for external communication, and require a continuous power source. This paper demonstrates an alternative platform, which we call iTAG (implantable thermally actuated gel), where an implanted capsule can be wirelessly controlled by ultrasound to trigger the release of compounds. We constructed a millimeter-sized capsule containing a co-polymer gel (NiPAAm-co-AAm) that contracts above body temperature (i.e. at 45 °C) to release compounds through an opening. This gel-containing capsule is biocompatible and free of toxic electronic or battery components. An ultrasound hardware, with a focused ultrasound (FUS) transducer and a co-axial A-mode imaging transducer, was used to image the capsule (to monitor in real time its position, temperature, and effectiveness of dose delivery), as well as to trigger a rapid local rise in temperature, contraction of gel, and release of compounds in vitro and in vivo. The combination of this gel-based capsule and compact ultrasound hardware can serve as a platform for triggering local release of compounds, including potentially in deep tissue, to achieve tailored personalized therapy.
Effects on pulmonary physiology of reamed femoral intramedullary nailing in an open-chest sheep model.

We have recently developed an open-chest sheep model to monitor and study the effects of major orthopedic procedures on pulmonary physiology. In this pilot study, we focused on reamed intramedullary femoral nailing in animals without pulmonary injury. Details of the model are described herein. The control group consisted of sheep that underwent thoracotomy and invasive monitoring only, while the study group also underwent femoral osteotomy, reaming, and intramedullary nailing. Baseline, postthoracotomy, and post-reaming/nailing values were recorded for mean pulmonary arterial pressure, central venous pressure, left arterial pressure, dynamic compliance, arterial blood gas, mixed venous O 2 , cardiac index, and mean arterial pressure so that hemodynamic and oxygen transport data could be calculated. Postprocedure values were recorded at hourly intervals for 4 h. A physiologically stable, reproducible model was created. No statistically significant differences were found between the control and experimental groups, indicating no adverse effect of femoral reaming/nailing. In one animal, using echocardiography, pulmonary embolization was documented while reaming and inserting the intramedullary nail. Reamed femoral intramedullary nailing is not detrimental to sheep with otherwise normal lungs. This finding suggests that femoral reaming and nailing in trauma patients without associated pulmonary injuries and otherwise normal lungs may be carried out without risk of inducing significant respiratory complications.
133. Age and psychosocial stress affect depression and anxiety-related behaviors, tumor growth and leukocyte infiltration in an orthotopic mouse model of prostate cancer

Interactions between age, psychosocial stress and prostate cancer (PCa) progression are critically understudied. Therefore, we characterized the effects of aging and psychosocial stress on anxiety/depression-like behavior, tumor growth and host defense using the immunocompetent, orthotopic, RM-9 murine PCa reconstitution model (MPR 3 ). Two- and 18-month-old tumor-bearing C57BL/6 mice were exposed to isolation and restraint stress (2 h/day) for 14 days post-tumor inoculation and compared with group-housed, non-stressed, tumor-bearing controls. Zero maze testing revealed age-related differences before tumor induction, and increased anxiety-like behavior. Open field testing showed that old non-stressed tumor-bearing mice were less active throughout the 30-min test period than young non-stressed and stressed, and old stressed tumor-bearing mice. Old mice demonstrated more depressed-like behavior than young mice with tail suspension testing, without effects of isolation/restraint stress. Old mice developed larger tumors, despite no age-related differences in tumor TGF-beta1 or VEGF levels. Tumor in young mice had more macrophages, the predominant immunocyte in tumors, and more CD4+ and CD4+FoxP3+ T-cells than old mice. Stress increased macrophage infiltration in old mice, but reduced CD4+ and CD4+FoxP3+ T-cell infiltration in young mice. CD8+ T cell infiltration was similar across treatment groups. Survival rate for old, stressed mice was 20% lower than all other groups. These findings suggest age- and stress-related differences in behavioral and immune responses in prostate tumor-bearing mice that can affect disease outcome.
The Squash Beetle in Arizona, Occurrence and Probable Manner of Introduction

During 1921 the squash beetle ( Epilachna borealis Fab.) appeared in the vicinity of Douglas, Ariz. It slowly extended its range during the period 1921 to 1924 until it covered about 65 square miles. During 1925 the insect was not found within the previously infested area, and it is believed that a deficiency in precipitation, combined with an increase in the mean temperature, may have been responsible for the disappearance of the pest. The beetle differs from the Eastern form in being somewhat smaller in size and in the absence of marking on the prothorax. The dots on the elytra are also smaller.
Current status of renal transplantation.

The record of success in renal transplantation has been somewhat improved but is still far from satisfactory. Once a recipient has been selected, he must be brought into optimum physical condition with hemodialysis. After transplantation, acute rejection episodes must be treated vigorously but treatment should not endanger life. Late complications include infection, indolent low-grade rejection, glomerulonephritis and drug toxicity.
Safety and immunogenicity of influenza A(H1N1) 2009 vaccine

Objective To evaluate safety and immunogenicity of influenza A(H1N1) 2009 vaccine.Methods Samples were chosen by cluster and random method.A total of 990 subjects,equally divided into 4 age groups(3-11 years,12-17 years,18-60 yesrs and 60 years),were enrolled and underwent randomization to receive either 30,15μg hemagglutinin antigen or PBS(placebo) by intramuscular injection.We measured antibody titers using hemagglutination-inhibitionand assays at baseline and 21 days after vaccination.The coprimary immunogenicity end points were the antibody positive rates and the proportion of subjects with antibody titers of 1∶40 or more on hemagglutination-inhibition assay,the proportion of subjects with either seroconversion or a significant increase in antibody titer,and the factor increase in the geometric mean titer.Results By day 21 after vaccination,the general adverse event of 30μg dose and 15μg dose did not appeared statistically significant,and the level of adverse event were also not appeared statistically significant.No death,serious adverse events,or adverse events of special interest were reported.Antibody positive rates were observed in 364 of 431(84.45%) subjects who received the 15μg dose and in 376 of 431 subjects(87.24%) who received the 30μg dose,antibody titers of 1∶40 or more were observed in 369 of 431 subjects(85.61%) who received the 15μg dose and in 379 of 431 subjects(87.94%) who received the 30μg dose as well.Conclusion A single 15μg or 30μg dose of 2009 H1N1 vaccine is immunogenic in people whose age is above 3 years,especially in adults,with mild-to-moderate vaccine-associated reactions.
An Improved Ant Colony Algorithm and Its Application in Power Route Optimization

Power route optimization accounts for a large proportion in the whole plan of the electricity.In order to save investment,the adoption of improved ant colony algorithm solves this problem to get the shortest path.The inspired factorαapproaches a constant value with the evolution generations is proposed,which enhances the convergence speed.Firstly this algorithm is applied to travelling salesman problem which shows this one is valid,then is applied to the power route optimization problem which verifies that the improved ant colony algorithm is better than the basic one.
Pluralism Comes of Age: American Religious Culture in the Twentieth Century

This masterful work explores the intersection of the worlds of Islam (including South and Southeast Asia, the Middle East and East Africa) and the European economy (particularly the seafaring Portuguese, Dutch, and British) on the eve of the modern world system. It centrally addresses current debates on the nature of the early modern world, and it is likely to become a pillar of the emerging literature that has begun to recast our understanding of the history of Asia. The author underlines the early predominance of Asia in the world economy and demonstrates the long and deep ties between European and Asian economic and military developments.
Implementation of Automatic Differentiation Tools for Multicriteria IMRT Optimization

Automatic differentiation tools (ADOL-C) have been implemented for large-scale NLP optimization problems encountered in an advanced radiotherapy technique called Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT). Since IMRT treatments involve many tissue structures and their associated clinical objectives, the corresponding optimization problems are typically multi-objective. In this study, they are solved by a multi-criteria approach called Lexicographic Ordering. This approach allows clinical objectives to be categorized into several priorities or levels, and optimization is performed sequentially in order of priority while keeping the previously optimized results constrained. As a result, the feasible solution region is gradually reduced as the method progresses. For each level of optimization, the objective function and constraints are constructed interactively by a treatment planner and the corresponding Jacobian is provided by AD tools at a machine-precision level. Results indicate that a high degree of accuracy for Jacobian is essential to produce both feasible and optimal results for clinical IMRT optimization problems.
Adjuvant Chemotherapy Improves Overall Survival of Rectal Cancer Patients Treated with Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy Regardless of Pathologic Nodal Status.

After neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer, the interpretation of surgical pathology poses difficulties in deciding the need for adjuvant chemotherapy (AC). The aim of this study was to determine whether there is a survival benefit to providing AC in patients with node-negative disease on surgical pathology. Patients with clinical stage II and III rectal adenocarcinoma who received neoadjuvant chemoradiation and definitive surgical resection from 2006 to 2012 were identified in the National Cancer Data Base. Patients were stratified by both receipt of AC and nodal status on surgical pathology. Propensity score matching was used to form two cohorts (AC vs. no AC) with otherwise balanced characteristics. Overall survival was compared by Kaplan–Meier analysis, and multivariable survival analysis was performed by a Weibull model. After propensity score matching, 4172 patients who received adjuvant therapy (2645 node negative and 1527 node positive) and 4172 patients who did not receive adjuvant therapy (3063 node negative and 1109 node positive) were identified. Among patients with either node-negative or node-positive disease, the use of AC was associated with a significant improvement in overall survival. These results were also observed after using a multivariable survival model to control for clinical stage as well as patient- and facility-related characteristics. In both patients with node-negative and node-positive disease on surgical pathology, the use of AC is associated with a survival benefit. In the absence of contraindications, AC should continue to be routinely recommended to patients after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced rectal cancers.
Special object extraction from medieval books using superpixels and bag-of-features

We propose a method to extract special objects in images of medieval books, which generally represent, for example, figures and capital letters. Instead of working on the single-pixel level, we consider superpixels as the basic classification units for improved time efficiency. More specifically, we classify superpixels into different categories/objects by using a bag-of-features approach, where a superpixel category classifier is trained with the local features of the superpixels of the training images. With the trained classifier, we are able to assign the category labels to the superpixels of a historical document image under test. Finally, special objects can easily be identified and extracted after analyzing the categorization results. Experimental results demonstrate that, as compared to the state-of-the-art algorithms, our method provides comparable performance for some historical books but greatly outperforms them in terms of generality and computational time.
Outpatient Medication Titration in Acute Heart Failure

Outpatient management of heart failure has changed significantly over the past 20 years, with evolving concepts of what improves longevity, decreases hospitalizations, and improves functional capacity. Randomized controlled trials have established the efficacy of many medications in reducing morbidity and mortality in patients with heart failure: angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers, beta-blockers (carvedilol, metoprolol succinate, and bisoprolol), aldosterone antagonists, sodium channel blockers, and neprilysin inhibitors. Despite these therapeutic options, patients are frequently undertreated, and appropriate medications are not titrated to evidence-based doses. A stepwise approach to initiation of heart failure medication and titration to therapeutic doses is recommended and can be guided by considering both the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) class and New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class of the patient. Such an approach is outlined in this chapter.
“A Way to Sell Your Records”: Pop Stardom and the Politics of Drag Professionalization on RuPaul’s Drag Race:

RuPaul’s Drag Race (Logo TV, 2009–present) tethers drag culture to pop stardom by structuring challenges around host RuPaul’s recording career and eliminations around lip sync contests that promote...
Mutation of WIF1: a potential novel cause of a Nail-Patella-like disorder.

PURPOSE:Nail-Patella syndrome is a dominantly inherited genetic disorder characterized by abnormalities of the nails, knees, elbows, and pelvis. Nail abnormalities are the most constant feature of Nail-Patella syndrome. Pathogenic mutations in a single gene, LMX1B, a mesenchymal determinant of dorsal-ventral patterning, explain approximately 95% of Nail-Patella syndrome cases. However, 5% of cases remain unexplained. METHODS:Here, we present exome sequencing and analysis of four generations of a family with a dominantly inherited Nail-Patella-like disorder (nail dysplasia with some features of Nail-Patella syndrome) who tested negative for LMX1B mutation. RESULTS:We identify a loss-of-function mutation in WIF1 (NM_007191 p.W15*), which is involved in mesoderm segmentation, as the suspected cause of the Nail-Patella-like disorder observed in this family. CONCLUSIONS:Mutation of WIF1 is a potential novel cause of a Nail-Patella-like disorder. Testing of additional patients negative for LMX1B mutation is needed to confirm this finding and further clarify the phenotype.Genet Med advance online publication 06 April 2017.
Enabling lateral transport of genomic DNA through porous membranes for point-of-care applications

Paper-based nucleic acid diagnostics have the potential to translate laboratory assays to simple-to-use, point-of-care devices, but many prototypes of these systems still lack the ability to process realistic samples due to the inability of genomic-sized DNA to move through membranes with small pores. For applications involving pathogen or human gene identification, the ability to fragment and transport DNA would provide more options for device design and broaden the range of applications. To address this challenge, we have developed and characterized a method that combines cell lysis with DNA fragmentation to allow for lateral transport of genomic DNA through commonly-used porous membranes. Additionally, we demonstrate that varying heating time and temperatures allows for control of both lysis and fragmentation based on genome size. These data align with previously published models that describe both DNA denaturation and thermal scission. This level of control allows semi-selective transport of pathogenic DNA, which can reduce the amount of interference from non-target human DNA in downstream applications. This method can be easily automated and is rapid, occurring in less than 10 minutes with one user step.