cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Testicular Hypoplasia Is Driven by Defective Vascular Formation.

Objective To determine if vanishing testis could result from a fault in embryological development as a result of an arrest in endothelial cell migration rather than secondary to just a random physical torsion/twist. A testicular nubbin or vanishing testis is considered to be secondary to a neonatal torsion and is usually associated with a hemosiderin deposit. Materials and Methods Cases of vanishing testis excision were compared with age-matched controls from cadaveric testes without known genitourinary pathology. To assess the testis microvasculature, we performed immunohistochemistry using an automated staining platform with controlled and standardized conditions and positive and negative controls. We used cluster of differentiation (CD) 34 to stain blood vessel endothelium, stem cells, and interstitium; CD31 (all endothelium); and D2-40 for lymphatic endothelium. Morphometric analysis was carried out, % of the total tissue with CD31 and CD34 positive stain was assessed, and the number of the lymphatic vessels (D2-40) per mm 2 was counted. Results Of the 10 cases, 7 had evidence of hemosiderin deposit and calcification. The % distribution of CD34 in controls was higher, 13.4 ± 3.1 (mean ± standard deviation), compared to nubbin cases, 4.5 ± 2.9 ( P ≤ .001). The % distribution of CD31 was 2.8 ± 0.83 in controls compared to 1.31 ± 0.60 in cases ( P ≤ .001). The lymphatic distribution was similar in both groups, cases (6.4 ± 4.3 n/mm 2 ) and controls (6.4 ± 1.7 n/mm 2 ) ( P = .99) Conclusion This histopathological study suggests that disturbances in endothelial development may be a contributing factor leading to testicular hypoplasia and a resultant nubbin testis, independent of a physical torsion event.
Multidomain proteins under force.

Advancements in single-molecule force spectroscopy techniques such as atomic force microscopy and magnetic tweezers allow investigation of how domain folding under force can play a physiological role. Combining these techniques with protein engineering and HaloTag covalent attachment, we investigate similarities and differences between four model proteins: I10 and I91—two immunoglobulin-like domains from the muscle protein titin, and two α + β fold proteins—ubiquitin and protein L. These proteins show a different mechanical response and have unique extensions under force. Remarkably, when normalized to their contour length, the size of the unfolding and refolding steps as a function of force reduces to a single master curve. This curve can be described using standard models of polymer elasticity, explaining the entropic nature of the measured steps. We further validate our measurements with a simple energy landscape model, which combines protein folding with polymer physics and accounts for the complex nature of tandem domains under force. This model can become a useful tool to help in deciphering the complexity of multidomain proteins operating under force.
In Vivo Efficacy of an Injectable Microsphere-Hydrogel Ocular Drug Delivery System.

ABSTRACTPurpose: Demonstrate in vivo that controlled and extended release of a low dose of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) from a microsphere-hydrogel drug delivery system (DDS) has a therapeutic effect in a laser-induced rat model of choroidal neovascularization (CNV).Methods: Anti-VEGF (ranibizumab or aflibercept) was loaded into poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres that were then suspended within an injectable poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-based thermo-responsive hydrogel DDS.The DDS was shown previously to release bioactive anti-VEGF for ~200 days. CNV was induced using an Ar-green laser. The four experimental groups were as follows: (i) non-treated, (ii) drug-free DDS, (iii) anti-VEGF-loaded DDS, and (iv) bolus injection of anti-VEGF. CNV lesion areas were measured based on fluorescein angiograms and quantified using a multi-Otsu thresholding technique. Intraocular pressure (IOP) and dark-adapted electroretinogram (ERG) were also obtained pre- and post-treatment (1, 2, 4, 8, a...
Can Embryologists Contribute to an Understanding of Evolutionary Mechanisms

The issue for this symposium is whether developmental biology requires a rethinking of the Modern Synthesis. I shall argue that it does not.
Immunophenotyping by multiparameter flow cytometry

Multiparameter flow cytometry has become an indispensable tool for the diagnosis and classification of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The basic method relies on the unique ability to detect immunophenotypic abnormalities on discrete subpopulations. The primary roles in the initial assessment of AML are to determine the immaturity of the leukemic population, define the lineage and the immunophenotypic aberrancies in blasts, and identify characteristic immunophenotypic features to predict important recurrent cytogenetic and genetic abnormalities and prognosis. The established immunophenotypic profile, a baseline "fingerprint," is used for follow-up assessment of residual disease. This chapter provides an overview of procedures for specimen processing, staining, and immunophenotyping of AML and describes our strategy for data analysis supplemented with illustrative case examples.
Treatment for Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation

Purpose of Review Recurrent lumbar disc herniation (RLDH) is the most common indication for reoperation after a lumbar discectomy. The purpose of this manuscript is to review the incidence, risk factors, and treatment for RLDH.
Sudden Cardiac Death Decreasing: Why Remains Unclear

* Abbreviations: CA — : cardiac arrest CHD — : congenital heart disease CPR — : cardiopulmonary resuscitation IH — : in-hospital OH — : out-of-hospital SCD — : sudden cardiac death The article by El-Assaad et al1 describes death certificate data from children (excluding infants 0–12 months old) and young adults (<35 years old) who died from sudden cardiac death (SCD) outside a hospital setting. The authors report that annual rates of SCD in young children (1–10 years old) remained steady, whereas rates of SCD among older children, teenagers, and young adults fell significantly over the study years. Additionally, African Americans had consistently higher annual rates of SCD compared with other racial and ethnic groups, but they also experienced the greatest improvement over the 15 study years ending in 2015. Of note, the composition of underlying cardiac conditions associated with SCD varied across age groups, with congenital heart disease (CHD) and arrhythmia being the most common in young children, whereas ischemic heart disease and arrhythmia were the most prevalent in young adults. However, autopsies were performed in less than one-third of the deaths,1 and physician coding for death certificates is known to vary widely.2 Likewise, the authors did not detail how cases with multiple International Classification of Diseases, … Address correspondence to Susan L. Bratton, MD, MPH, Division of Pediatric Critical Care, University of Utah Pediatrics, 295 Chipeta Way, PO Box 581289, Salt Lake City, UT 84113. E-mail: susan.bratton{at}hsc.utah.edu
Enhanced Grain Size and Crystallinity in CH3NH3PbI3 Perovskite Films by Metal Additives to the Single-Step Solution Fabrication Process

Methods of obtaining large grain size and high crystallinity in absorber materials play an important role in fabrication of high-performance methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) perovskite solar cells. Here we study the effect of adding small concentrations of Cd2+, Zn2+, and Fe2+salts to the perovskite precursor solution used in the single-step solution fabrication process. Enhanced grain size and crystallinity in MAPbI3 films were obtained by using 0.1% of Cd2+ or Zn2+in the precursor solution. Consequently, solar cells constructed with Cd- and Zn-doped perovskite films show a significant improvement in device performance. These results suggest that the process may be an effective and facile method to fabricate high-efficiency perovskite photovoltaic devices.
Synthesis of C-Unsubstituted 1,2-Diazetidines and Their Ring-Opening Reactions via Selective N-N Bond Cleavage.

C-Unsubstituted 1,2-diazetidines, a rarely studied type of four-membered heterocyclic compounds, were synthesized through an operationally simple intermolecular vicinal disubstitution reaction. 1,2-Diazetidine derivatives bearing various N-arylsulfonyl groups were readily accessed and studied by experimental and computed Raman spectra. The ring-opening reaction of the diazetidine was explored and resulted in the identification of a selective N–N bond cleavage with thiols as nucleophiles, which stereoselectively produced a new class of N-sulfenylimine derivatives with C-aminomethyl groups.
Detection of Obstructive Uropathy Using 99mTechnetium Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic Acid

AbstractA simple, accurate test with no morbidity and effective for the detection of urinary tract obstruction in patients with normal and impaired renal function would be of significant clinical use. We herein evaluate the ability of 99mtechnetium diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid to detect the presence or absence of obstruction. Of 107 patients who underwent recent studies 31 had confirmation of the presence or absence of obstruction by excretory urography, retrograde pyelography or other definitive procedures. Patients were studied in the posterior projection with perfusion images after intravenous injection of 20 millicuries 99mtechnetium diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid. Static images of the urinary tract were obtained from 1 to 30 minutes after injection with delayed images up to 24 hours. Obstruction was defined as abnormal retention of activity in the collecting system persisting in the delayed images. Diethylentriaminepentaacetic acid identified correctly 13 of 13 patients proved to have obstr...
Inner Communications Following the Near-Death Experience

Inner communications following the near-death experience (NDE) have been reported by a number of authors. Although such communications are similar in some ways to the hallucinations heard by individuals with mental illness, they differ in that their effects are predominantly positive, whereas the hallucinations in mental illness exert predominantly negative effects. This article describes three individuals who reported experiencing inner communications subsequent to their NDEs. I suggest that these inner messages may be a form of intuition, and encourage further research into this phenomenon.
Sotrastaurin, a protein kinase C inhibitor for the prevention of transplant rejection and treatment of psoriasis

Blocking T-cell activation has a central role in the control of inflammatory diseases and in the prevention of graft rejection. Historically, immunosuppressive drugs have been used to prevent allograft rejection and to promote transplant tolerance. Several immunosuppressive drugs are effective in suppressing T-cell activation, but are often associated with severe adverse effects. The development of effective immunosuppressants that promote long-term graft survival with minimal adverse effects is therefore of great interest. As PKC has a critical role in the regulation of immune cell function, drugs that are highly specific for PKC are considered potentially useful for treating allograft rejection, as well as autoimmune and other inflammatory diseases. Novartis AG is developing the pan-PKC-specific inhibitor sotrastaurin (AEB-071) for the prevention of transplant rejection and for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. In vivo data from rodents and non-human primates confirmed the potential of sotrastaurin for preventing allograft rejection and reducing the inflammatory response. Data from an initial clinical trial in patients with psoriasis demonstrated that treatment with sotrastaurin resulted in improvements in clinical and histological assessments; however, data from early trials in kidney transplant recipients were less encouraging. Sotrastaurin is undergoing phase I trials for liver transplantation, and phase II trials for renal transplantation and psoriasis treatment. Although sotrastaurin appears to be well tolerated based on published clinical trial data, long-term data need to be reported to confirm the safety and efficacy profile of this novel compound.
Die Rolle von idealen Gebilden

Zum Schlusse mochte ich noch von einem Thema handeln, das dem Mathematiker besonders nahe steht: von den idealen Gebilden. Das Ideale wird dem Realen gegenubergestellt, und zwar einerseits als das Unwirkliche (blos Gedachte) dem Wirklichen, andererseits als das Vollkommene dem existierenden Unvollkommenen. Ich will zunachst nur von der ersten Bedeutung des Idealen sprechen. Diese spielt besonders in der Mathematik eine grose Rolle. Auf den ersten Blick erscheint diese Tatsache sehr paradox; denn da ja die Mathematik es nicht unmittelbar mit dem Wirklichen zu tun hat, sondern sich im Reiche des reinen Gedankens bewegt, so versteht man nicht, wie innerhalb der Mathematik eine Unterscheidung zwischen Wirklichem und Unwirklichem stattfinden kann.
The Surrogate Worth Trade-Off Method with Multiple Decision-Makers

This paper is divided into two major parts. In the first part a review of the Surrogate Worth Trade-off (SWT) method is presented. In addition, clarifications to the original presentation of the SWT method by Haimes and Hall [1974] are discussed avoiding unnecessary duplication of material available in the book by Haimes, Hall and Freedman, [1975]. The second part is devoted to the extensions and the applications of the SWT method to multiobjective analysis where multiple decision-makers (MDMs) are involved. Three cases are identified; these are the direct group decision-making systems, the representative decision-making systems, and the political decision simulations. Finally, summary and conclusions are presented.
Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) proctocolitis mimicking rectal lymphoma

Abstract Lymphogranuloma venereum is a sexually transmitted infection caused by serotypes L1-3 of Chlamydia trachomatis and may present as hemorrhagic proctocolitis. The diagnosis of an active infection is difficult to establish, as confirmatory testing can be unreliable or unavailable. Imaging findings can be nonspecific and mimic malignancy or other chronic infectious and inflammatory disorders. In this report, we present a case of lymphogranuloma venereum proctocolitis and its computed tomography features to highlight the relevant imaging findings and importance of timely diagnosis.
Improving Lidar Depth Resolution with Dither

Using detector arrays can speed up lidar systems by parallelizing acquisition. However, current SPAD arrays have time bins longer than typical laser pulse durations, resulting in measurement errors dominated by quantization. We propose an optical time-of-flight system that uses subtractive dither to improve image depth resolution. Modeling the measurement noise with a generalized Gaussian distribution further improves estimation error in simulations, although model mismatch prevents the same advantage for our experimental data. Experimental results with the ratio of laser pulse standard deviation to quantization bin duration equal to 0.15 and using an average of 267 photons per pixel show a reduction in RMS error as large as 9-fold over estimates from coarsely quantized data.
Post Kidney Transplant: Obesity

Obesity and weight gain are a significant problem in post-kidney transplant patients. A multitude of pre-transplant and post-transplant risk factors predispose to obesity after transplantation, and can adversely affect patient outcomes. Identifying these risk factors early on and adopting strategies to abrogate these risk factors can potentially prevent, and help treat post-transplant obesity. This chapter will delve into the epidemiology, and risk factors for post-transplant obesity, as well as discuss strategies for prevention and management.
Time Series Analysis

Time series analysis (TSA) is a statistical methodology appropriate for basic and applied research in real-world settings. Idiographic methods such as TSA focus on time-dependent variation within single subjects or research units, which can address research questions that nomothetic, or group-level, methods cannot. TSA can be applied to a wide variety of longitudinal designs and can be used to investigate underlying naturalistic processes, assess patterns of change over time, evaluate the effects of an intervention, and investigate the relationship of two or more variables over time. Technological advances are providing new opportunities to use TSA in clinical settings. Keywords: data analysis in psychology; experimental design; idiographic research; intra-individual variation; longitudinal methods; patterns of change; single subject research; statistical methods in psychology; technology
A record of mid-and late Holocene paleohydroclimate from Lower Pahranagat Lake, southern Great Basin

We present a continuous, sediment core-based record of paleohydroclimate spanning ~5800 cal yr BP to recent from Lower Pahranagat Lake (LPAH), a shallow, alkaline lake in southern Nevada. We apply stable isotopes (δ18O and δ13C) from fine-fraction authigenic carbonate, which are sensitive recorders of hydroclimatic variability in this highly evaporative region. Additional geochemical proxies (total organic carbon, C/N, and total inorganic carbon) provide supporting information on paleoecological change in and around the lake. Our data suggest progressively wetter conditions starting at the later part of the middle Holocene and extending into the late Holocene (~5500–3350 cal yr BP) followed by a millennial-scale dry period from ~3150 to 1700 cal yr BP. This latter interval encompasses the ‘Late Holocene dry period’ (LHDP) reported by other investigators, and our data help refine the area affected in this episode. Our data also show evidence for a series of century-scale fluctuations in regional hydroclimate, including wet and dry intervals between 2350 and 1600 cal yr BP, and drier conditions over the past few centuries. Paleohydroclimate trends in the LPAH record show correspondence with those from the central Great Basin to the north, suggesting that both areas were subject to similar climatic forcings.
A Continuous, Drift-Compensated Impedimetric Thermal Flow Sensor for in Vivo Applications

We report a liquid flow sensor developed for biomedical applications based on electrochemical impedance (EI) measurements across a constantly-biased heating element. Prior EI-based flow transduction methods were limited to periodic measurements; this novel sensing approach is amenable to real time flow monitoring and does not require curve analysis or cooling between measurements to extract EI response to flow. The use of isolated reference electrodes in the sensor layout reduces sensitivity to environmental drift in ionic concentration and temperature by over 5×. Our sensor achieved a $2\sigma$ resolution of $35\ \mu \mathrm{m}/\sec$ between $0-200\ \mu \mathrm{m}/\sec$ in a flexible, biocompatible form factor.
What is the effect of a decision aid in potentially vulnerable parents? Insights from the head CT choice randomized trial.

Author(s): Skains, Rachel M; Kuppermann, Nathan; Homme, James L; Kharbanda, Anupam B; Tzimenatos, Leah; Louie, Jeffrey P; Cohen, Daniel M; Nigrovic, Lise E; Westphal, Jessica J; Shah, Nilay D; Inselman, Jonathan; Ferrara, Michael J; Herrin, Jeph; Montori, Victor M; Hess, Erik P | Abstract: ObjectiveTo test the hypotheses that use of the Head CT Choice decision aid would be similarly effective in all parent/patient dyads but parents with high (vs low) numeracy experience a greater increase in knowledge while those with low (vs high) health literacy experience a greater increase in trust.MethodsThis was a secondary analysis of a cluster randomized trial conducted at seven sites. One hundred seventy-two clinicians caring for 971 children at intermediate risk for clinically important traumatic brain injuries were randomized to shared decision making facilitated by the DA (n = 493) or to usual care (n = 478). We assessed for subgroup effects based on patient and parent characteristics, including socioeconomic status (health literacy, numeracy and income). We tested for interactions using regression models with indicators for arm assignment and study site.ResultsThe decision aid did not increase knowledge more in parents with high numeracy (P for interaction [Pint ] = 0.14) or physician trust more in parents with low health literacy (Pint = 0.34). The decision aid decreased decisional conflict more in non-white parents (decisional conflict scale, -8.14, 95% CI: -12.33 to -3.95; Pint = 0.05) and increased physician trust more in socioeconomically disadvantaged parents (trust in physician scale, OR: 8.59, 95% CI: 2.35-14.83; Pint = 0.04).ConclusionsUse of the Head CT Choice decision aid resulted in less decisional conflict in non-white parents and greater physician trust in socioeconomically disadvantaged parents. Decision aids may be particularly effective in potentially vulnerable parents.
Hemodynamic events during carotid stenting are associated with significant periprocedural stroke and adverse events

Abstract Background There are limited data on the impact of carotid angioplasty and stenting (CAS)-related changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and preprocedural medications on periprocedural stroke in contemporary, real-world practice. This study evaluates the risk attributable to the CAS-related hemodynamic events and the impact preprocedural medications have on mitigating this risk in a large, population-based cohort. Methods We studied all patients in the Vascular Quality Initiative who underwent CAS between January 2006 and December 2016. Kaplan-Meier, multivariable logistic, and Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate the impact of periprocedural hypertension, hypotension, bradycardia, and medication use on immediate periprocedural stroke (IPPS), 30-day, and 1-year stroke. Results Of the 13,698 CAS procedures studied, 1239 (9.1%), 1824 (13.3%), and 1333 (9.7%) patients experienced periprocedural hypertension, hypotension, and bradycardia, respectively. IPPS was 3.2% vs 2.1% vs 0.65% (P Conclusions Periprocedural hemodynamic events are associated with an increase in periprocedural stroke, myocardial infarction, death, and length of stay. Periprocedural hypertension in all patients; hypotension and bradycardia in patients with symptomatic carotid disease are associated with significant increase in IPPS. Prophylactic antibradyarrhythmic agents are associated with decrease in bradycardia and IPPS. These results heighten the need to anticipate and promptly address these CAS-related hemodynamic events, especially in susceptible patients.
Design of an All-reflective Line Based Spectrometer for Optical Coherence Tomography

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an interferometric technique for diagnostic medical imaging. The multidisciplinary nature of OCT is one of the reasons that there has been so many innovations in this field with more still to come[1]. Since OCT spans a wide range of applications, there is a huge need for designing new OCT systems to cover unmet needs. The main contribution of this work is to design and optimize a new all-reflective spectrometer system compared to traditional refractive optics. In this all-reflective design, chromatic aberration is reduced significantly. Moreover, the effective focal length of the spectrometer mirror is no longer wavelength related. In the following, the spectrometer design of our approach and its analysis will be explained and discussed.
The temperature dependence of the work function of oxide electrodes in fluorescent lamps

In the present work the temperature dependence of the work function of oxide cathodes in operating fluorescent lamps was investigated experimentally. A detailed review on the theory is presented, including a thermodynamic and a quantum mechanical view on the problem. Aspects such as the role of the electrochemical potential, external and internal potentials, the constituents of the electron affinity, the patch effect and surface states are discussed. For solids in contact the Volta and Galvani potentials are related to their work functions. The importance of colour centres in oxide electrodes on the temperature dependence of the work function and the impact of ultraviolet radiation is emphasized. The measurements have been carried out under zero field emission of electrons from the electrode, using the Waymouth (rf) and Eisenmann (visual) methods as indicators. By inserting an empirical ansatz into the Richardson equation, it was possible to determine the temperature dependence of the work function from the experiments.
Preoperative Imaging in Renal Transplant Patients with Tertiary Hyperparathyroidism

Tertiary hyperparathyroidism following kidney transplantation is most commonly characterized by 4-gland hyperplasia, but single and double adenomatous disease has been demonstrated in this population as well. It is unknown whether preoperative imaging can assist in identifying patients who may qualify for focused surgery for adenomatous disease. We performed a retrospective review of our patient database from 1998–2018 for patients with tertiary hyperparathyroidism following renal transplant. Patient charts were reviewed for patient demographics, laboratory values, preoperative imaging, operative findings, pathology, and complications. We identified 113 patients with tertiary hyperparathyroidism following renal transplant who underwent parathyroidectomy. There were 51 females and 62 males with a mean age of 53.4 ± 13.4 years. Median preoperative calcium and PTH were 10.9 mg/dl (IQR 10.3–11.2) and 228 pg/ml (IQR 118–305). Preoperative ultrasound was performed in 60 patients. Of these, 11 (18%) were negative, 38 (63%) showed 1–2 adenomas, and 11 (18%) showed ≥ 3 adenomas. 99mTc-sestamibi parathyroid scintigraphy was performed in 101/113 patients. Of these, 11 (11%) were negative, 62 (61%) showed 1–2 areas of discordant sestamibi uptake, and 28 (28%) showed ≥ 3 areas of discordant uptake. Ultimately, 19 (17%) patients had a single adenoma removed, 16 (14%) had 2 adenomas removed, and (69%) had multi-gland disease. There were 26 ectopic glands found in 21 patients, 42.3% of which were identified on preoperative imaging. 94.1% of patients were eucalcemic at last follow-up, mean (± SD) 5.8 ± 3.6 years. Adenomas that were visualized on ultrasound were larger on pathology than those non-visualized (997 ± 120 mg (mean ± SE) vs. 388 ± 109 mg, p = 0.0003). This was also true for parathyroid scintigraphy (647 ± 41 mg vs. 355 ± 51 mg, p = 0.0001). In patients with tertiary hyperparathyroidism, preoperative imaging can aid in predicting which patients will have 1–2 gland disease. In patients with 1–2 gland disease on congruent ultrasound and nuclear medicine imaging studies, the accuracy increases to 59%. Preoperative imaging can help identify ectopic glands. Larger adenomas are more likely to be identified on both imaging modalities.
Examining patterns of and reasons for delays to treatment in colon cancer.

52Background: Delays in colon cancer (CC) treatment can impact patient outcomes. Detailed examination into the patterns and reasons for delay in the diagnostic and pre-treatment work up are underst...
Dynamic instability analysis of aeroelastic systems with application to aircraft wings

In this research, a set of computational algorithms have been developed to obtain a solution for steady and unsteady aeroelastic effects with specific applications to rectangular and swept aircraft wings. The solution includes calculation for the dynamic response and prediction for the occurrence of aeroelastic instability. Two aircraft wing models, under different combinations of flight conditions, were used in testing. Good results that match with those obtained in the lab have been observed, except in certain conditions where severe external conditions, such as shocks, flow separation, or transonic flow occurred. The results were also validated with multiple computational methods. For instance, the pressure coefficient, Cp, calculated with vortex lattice was also calculated with Woodward's method and showed good match. For the unsteady flow, the calculated pressure coefficient and phase angle were compared with the measured values obtained in the lab, and the calculated and experimental results were very close. The generalized aerodynamic force function ( QRS) was determined using two different schemes: a direct formula using the interpolation technique and using the downwash vectors. Both schemes produced very close results. The transfer function was calculated using direct and closed form solutions, producing identical results. The instability calculation showed very close match: for case 3A, the flutter point occurred at dynamic pressure, frequency, and flutter velocity of 20.933 Hz, 0.9 Psi, and 566 fps, respectively, compared with measured values of 20.38 Hz, 0.924 Psi, and 565.8 fps. For case 3B, the results showed flutter occurring at (16.015, 0.605, and 973.2) vs (16.09, 0.62, and 973.4) measured.
Recurrent PTBP1-MAML2 Fusions in Composite Hemangioendothelioma with Neuroendocrine Differentiation: A Report of 2 cases Involving Neck Lymph Nodes.

Composite hemangioendothelioma (CHE) displaying neuroendocrine differentiation is a rare histologic variant that is often mistaken for angiosarcoma, having a predilection for visceral locations and being associated with an aggressive clinical course. Their pathogenesis is still evolving, with only 2 cases to date from separate studies reporting a recurrent PTBP1-MAML2 fusion. Herein, we report two new cases of neuroendocrine CHE harboring PTBP1-MAML2 fusions occurring in two elderly patients (70-year-old male and 71-year-old female), both involving neck lymph nodes. The first case presented with multifocal cervical lymphadenopathy, while the second case occurred unifocally in an enlarged neck lymph node. Histologically, the tumors displayed heterogenous architectural patterns with areas reminiscent of benign cavernous hemangioma, retiform hemangioendothelioma, epithelioid hemangioendothelioma, and angiosarcoma. Cytologically, the cells were monotonous with round to ovoid nuclei, open to fine chromatin, scant to moderate cytoplasm, and frequent vacuolization. In addition, the first case showed focal solid areas of large epithelioid cells with severe nuclear atypia, enlarged nuclei and prominent nucleoli, resembling epithelioid angiosarcoma. Tumor cells were diffusely positive for vascular markers and focally positive for synaptophysin. In both cases, a next-generation sequencing fusion panel confirmed an in-frame fusion between PTBP1 exon 10 and MAML2 exon 2. One case with clinical follow-up showed stable recurrent disease and metastatic lung deposits following treatment. Both patients were alive at 3 months and one year following initial diagnosis. Our findings lend further support to classifying CHE with PTBP1-MAML2 fusions as a distinct variant of CHE with unique clinicopathologic features, including neuroendocrine features. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
A Gradual Rise in Cancer Stem Cells in the Crypt-Villous Axis of the Colon During Aging

A primary conceptual challenge in the study of mammalian aging is the occurrence of disease and the intricate relationship of disease processes to aging. One of the most consistent pathological conditions in the gastrointestinal tract (GI) with advancing age is malignancy, specifically colorectal cancer, the incidence of which increases sharply with aging. Although the underlying cellular and molecular events for the age-related rise in colorectal cancer is not fully understood, we have suggested a role for self-renewing, pluripotent cancer stem/stem-like cells (CSCs) in regulating these processes. In support of this, we have demonstrated that the agerelated increase in adenomatous polyps in the colon of humans is associated with a concomitant rise in the expression of several CSC markers such as CD44, CD166 and ESA in macroscopically normal appearing colon. A similar increase in CSCs was also observed in the colonic mucosa of aged Fischer-344 rats. Since CSCs are thought to be the mutated counterpart of normal stem cells, which in the colon are primarily located at the bottom of the crypt, we hypothesize that an age-related increase in mutated CSC gradually replicating and eventually occupying the entire crypt-villous axis will lead to the formation of colon tumor. To test this hypothesis, we isolated mucosal cells from the upper-1/3, middle and lower regions of the colon of young (4-month) and aged (24-months) Fischer-344 rats. The cells isolated from all three regions were subjected to spheroid formation and gene mutation analysis. We observed that mucosal cells from the middle and lower, but not the upper region of the colon from aged rats formed a large number of sphere/spheroid-like structures. These spheroids could be extended to 2nd generation. Mucosal cells from the lower region of the colon of young animals were also able to form a small number of spheroids, but they were much smaller and this formation was not very consistent. No spheroids were formed by cells from the middle and upper regions of young animals. This increased spheroid forming ability of mucosal cells from aged rats was associated with increased expression of CD44 and β-catenin. In contrast, CK-20, a marker of differentiation, was greatly augmented in the middle and upper part of the colon of aged rats, compared to cells from the lower region. Frequency of gene mutation was also higher in colonic mucosal cells from the lower region of the colon of aged than young animals. We conclude that with aging there is a gradual increase in CSCs in the colonic crypt which may partly be response for the age-related rise in colorectal cancer.
Wireless electric vehicle charging via capacitive power transfer through a conformal bumper

Wireless power transfer (WPT) is emerging as a practical means for electric vehicle (EV) charging. Of the three main approaches to WPT, resonant inductive, inductive, and capacitive coupling, capacitive power transfer (CPT) is proposed herein to charge an EV at a kilowatt scale power level. CPT implementation replaces copper coils and ferrous core focusing/shield materials of inductive approaches with foil surfaces making CPT cost effective and structurally simple to implement, while maintaining efficient power transfer capability. This paper addresses each facet of kilowatt scale CPT system development, namely achieving high coupling capacitance between the vehicle and charging station and the associated drive power electronics. High capacitive coupling is achieved through a conformal (flexible and compressive) foam transmitter bumper that molds and contours itself to the vehicle to minimize air gap during charging. An experimental docking station to charge a Corbin Sparrow EV 156V battery pack was built and measured throughput power is demonstrated at >1kW with a coupling capacitance of 10nF operating at 540kHz.
Objective Comparison of Commercially Available Breast Implant Devices

Breast implants are frequently used for both cosmetic breast augmentation and breast reconstruction after mastectomy. Three companies currently offer FDA-approved breast implants (Allergan, Mentor, and Sientra), but their product offerings—including permanent breast implants, breast tissue expanders, sizers, and post-operative warranty—can be difficult to compare because of brand names and company-specific jargon. The ability to have a brand-agnostic understanding of all available options is important for both the surgical trainee as well as the surgeon in clinical practice. After a brief review of the history of breast implant devices, this review utilizes a unique conceptual framework based on variables such as fill material, shape, relative dimensions, and surface coating to facilitate a better understanding of the similarities and differences between the different company’s offerings. Specifically, we identify which types of devices are offered by all three companies, those that are offered by only one company, those that have very limited product offerings, and those combinations that are not available at all. Finally, clinical implications are drawn from this framework that can be used by both cosmetic and reconstructive surgeons to counsel patients about all available options. Importantly, this project is entirely independent of any company’s funding, support, or input. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .
Inclusion-body myositis presenting with facial diplegia.

Introduction: The hallmark clinical presentation of inclusion-body myositis (IBM) is slowly progressive weakness that characteristically affects the quadriceps and finger and wrist finger flexor muscles. Facial weakness can also occur, but it is typically mild and not a prominent finding. Methods: We describe the clinical features, laboratory investigations, and muscle biopsy findings in a 58-year old man who presented with a 6-year history of marked progressive symmetrical facial weakness. Examination also showed shoulder abduction and hip extensor weakness. Results: The patient's serum creatine kinase level was 655 U/L, and electromyography showed fibrillation potentials and myopathic motor unit potentials. A biopsy specimen of the left biceps muscle was pathognomonic for IBM. Conclusions: This patient did not have a typical presentation for IBM but rather fulfilled the pathological criteria for IBM. To our knowledge, facial diplegia has not been reported previously as a presenting manifestation of IBM. Muscle Nerve 49: 287–289, 2014
Spacetime as a Sheaf of Geodesics in Superspace

Superspace — the space of C∞geometries on a compact Hausdorff 3-dimensional manifold M without boundary — has been defined and analysed by Arthur Fischer in an accompanying paper. The results of his analysis show that superspace is not a manifold but is a stratified union of manifolds. It is the purpose of the present paper to give some nonrigorous arguments which suggest that superspace can nevertheless be extended in such a way that it becomes a manifold, in fact a Riemannian manifold, and that a spacetime which satisfies Einstein’s equations can be regarded as a sheaf of geodesics in this extended manifold.
Chips Off the Ol' Block: Parents' Leisure and Their Children's Play

The data reported in this paper represent initial efforts to seek to explain the antecedents of young children's playful behavior. The hypothesis that much of the child's play style is influenced b...
Visual shape analysis by wavelets

The complexity analysis shows that the problem of visual recognition is an intractable problem, as is the training of neural networks for this purpose. The authors propose a representation scheme which greatly simplifies recognition. The approach relies on wavelet analysis, a recently developed tool for local space-frequency analysis on a broad class of functions. Based on two assumptions, that visual objects are localized in the space domain and that the recognition system is robust, it is concluded that for the purpose of recognition every object is localized in the frequency domain as well. This fact, combined with the properties of the wavelet transform, make it possible to keep the same amount of information for objects of any size. The consequences of spatial and frequency localization of the objects are analyzed, and a framework for visual object representation and recognition is derived from this analysis. >
Higher Education and the Society for Neuroscience: a website proposal that helped catalyze a change in policy.

In the spring of 2007, the Society for Neuroscience (SfN) did not include support for higher education as a priority in its strategic plan. By the spring of 2009, its priorities had changed. One catalyst for that change was a proposal for a website that would list, review, and rate resources for teaching neuroscience at the graduate and undergraduate level. The proposal was sent to and accepted by SfN Council in August 2008; by spring 2009, SfN had taken initial steps to implement it. Two documents are presented here that mark the change in policy: the website proposal, and SfN Council’s response.
Aging, emotion, and evolution: the bigger picture.

Abstract: Ample empirical evidence shows that basic cognitive processes integral to learning and memory suffer with age. Explanations for age-related loss typically cite the absence of evolutionary selection pressures during the postreproductive years, which consequently failed to optimize functioning during old age. In this paper, we suggest that evolutionary pressures did operate at older ages and that an evolutionary account is entirely consistent with the pattern of findings currently available in the psychological literature on aging. Cognitive loss is limited primarily to new learning, yet integrated world knowledge increases with age. In addition, socioemotional regulation improves with age, which is associated with increased investment in emotionally meaningful others (most notably kin). In this chapter, we argue that this profile of late-life characteristics contributes to the reproductive success of kin. We consider how the uniquely human ability to monitor place in the life cycle and the consequent motivational shifts that occur when boundaries in time are perceived contribute to the adaptive value of long life. Finally, we suggest that joint consideration of evolutionary theory and life-span psychology can lead to fruitful advances in the understanding of human aging.
Multiplexed detection of nitrate and nitrite for capillary electrophoresis with an automated device for high injection efficiency

A simple automated nanoliter scale injection device which allows for reproducible 5 nL sample injections from samples with a volume of <1 µL is successfully used for conventional capillary electrophoresis (CE) and Hadamard transform (HT) CE detection. Two standard fused silica capillaries are assembled axially through the device to function as an injection and a separation capillary. Sample solution is supplied to the injection capillary using pressure controlled with a solenoid valve. Buffer solution flows gravimetrically by the junction of the injection and separation capillaries and is also gated with a solenoid valve. Plugs of sample are pushed into the space between the injection and separation capillaries for electrokinectic injection. To evaluate the performance of the injection device, several optimizations are performed including the influence of flow rates, the injected sample volume and the control of the buffer transverse flow on the overall sensitivity. The system was then applied to HT-CE-UV detection for the signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) improvement of the nitric oxide (NO) metabolites, nitrite and nitrate. In addition, signal averaging was performed to explore the possibility of greater sensitivity enhancements compared to single injections.
Stability of scores and correlations with drinking behaviors over 15 years for the Self-Report of the Effects of Alcohol Questionnaire.

Background The low level of response (LR) to alcohol is an endophenotype that predicts future heavy drinking and alcohol use disorders (AUDs). LR can be measured by laboratory-based alcohol challenges or by the retrospective Self-Report of the Effects of Alcohol (SRE) questionnaire. This paper reports the relationships among these two measures and how each related to both recent and future drinking quantities and problems across 15 years in 235 men.
Durkheim Contra Bergson? The Hidden Roots of Postmodern Theory and the Postmodern “Return” of the Sacred:

Postmodern social theory is often seen as entirely distinct from and even antagonistic to modern sociological thought. This article endeavors to challenge this framing by tracing the emergence of postmodernist social thought to a historical development in Western societies intimately tied to the conditions of emergence of modern sociology, that is, to the crisis of the loss of the sacred for the modern intellectual class. Postmodern theory is linked to two purportedly opposed schools of modern social thought, Durkheimianism and Bergsonianism, by demonstrating the careful concern in each of these strands for a renovation of the sacred in the wake of the devastating effects Enlightenment and materialist thought had on traditional modes of the sacred for intellectuals (if not for larger segments of Western societies). Explicit textual evidence of this influence is also examined.
Psychophysical assessment of assistive devices for transferring patients/residents

This article reports the psychophysical assessment of nine battery-powered lifts, a sliding board, a walking belt, and a baseline manual method for transferring nursing home patients/residents from a bed to a chair. A separate article reports the biomechanical evaluation of the same task and devices. The objectives of the psychophysical assessment were to investigate the effects of resident-transferring methods on the psychophysical stress to nursing assistants performing the transferring task, and to identify transfer methods that could reduce the psychophysical stress reported by nursing assistants. Nine nursing assistants served as test subjects. Two elderly persons participated as residents. The results indicated that the psychophysical stresses on nursing assistants were significantly lower when performing resident transfers with some of the assistive devices than when performing transfers with the baseline manual transfer method. The nursing assistants generally preferred the basket-sling lift and stand-up lift to other methods. The residents' comfort and security ratings indicated the comfort and security with most of the assistive devices were greater than or equal to the baseline manual method. Most of the comments of the nursing assistants and residents on the assistive devices were favourable.
Influence of Viscous and Capillary Forces on Immiscible Fluid Displacement: Pore-Scale Experimental Study in a Water-Wet Micromodel Demonstrating Viscous and Capillary Fingering

Unstable immiscible fluid displacement in porous media affects geological carbon sequestration, enhanced oil recovery, and groundwater contamination by non-aqueous phase liquids. Characterization of immiscible displacement processes at the pore scale is important to better understand macroscopic processes at the continuum scale. A series of displacement experiments was conducted to investigate the impacts of viscous and capillary forces on displacement stability and fluid saturation distributions in a homogeneous water-wet pore network micromodel with precisely microfabricated pore structures. Displacements were studied using seven wetting–non-wetting fluid pairs with viscosity ratios M (viscosity of the advancing non-wetting fluid divided by the viscosity of the displaced wetting fluid) ranging 4 orders of magnitude from log M = −1.95 to 1.88. The micromodel was initially saturated with either polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG200) or water as the wetting fluid, which was then displaced by a non-wetting alkane...