cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
E-045 Product Cost and Utilization in Mechanical Thrombectomy: A Comparison of Techniques

Introduction/purpose Interventional stroke management has seen a period of explosive growth in the wake of recent trials demonstrating improved outcomes in patients who undergo timely and appropriate procedural management. The two most common interventional techniques involve the use of stent retrieval devices and suction aspiration. While clear clinical benefit to the patient has been seen in the use of these devices, it is not altogether clear the financial implications to the patient and/or his or her insurer for the use of these devices. In a period of heightened sensitivity to healthcare costs, it is reasonable to consider the material cost to the patient and healthcare system for utilization of these new techniques. The goal of our study is to determine the difference, if any, in cost to the healthcare system in performance of interventional thrombectomy by stent retrieval or suction aspiration. Materials and methods We examined data for interventional stroke management cases performed for M1 segment occlusions at Duke University Medical Center from the period of January 2014 to January 2016. We analyzed the amount billed to the patient for products utilized during these cases. Cases were subdivided into those only utilizing stent retrieval devices (Solitaire TM ; Covidien, Dublin, Ireland) and those only utilizing suction aspiration devices (Penumbra®, Alameda, CA). Total cost to patient for each case was calculated. Mean cost and standard deviation was calculated for each technique and compared using Student’s t-test. Results The total product cost to the patient for interventional management of vascular occlusions in a selected group of patients is given in the table. Conclusion A cursory evaluation of the data from this selected subset of patients suggests that there may be no significant difference in overall product cost to the patient for utilization of these two techniques for performance of mechanical thrombectomy. However, upon closer inspection of the data, the cost for aspiration thrombectomy appears to vary quite widely across the subset, with a standard deviation of $22470.99, while the standard deviation for stent retrieval is $2846.91. It is difficult to determine whether this trend would be borne out in a larger sample set; however, it may suggest that product utilization in aspiration thrombectomy may vary considerably among operators and in varying situations while product utilization in stent retrieval thrombectomy may be more constant. Further exploration of this trend with larger patient subsets is warranted. Disclosures P. Brown: None. M. Cobb: None. T. Smith: None. A. Zomorodi: None. L. Gonzalez: None.
Existential Angst and Meaning Making in Narratives of Lithuanian Survivors of Soviet Political Deportations

Experiences related to forced deportations of ethnic Lithuanians as part of Stalin’s political genocide were explored in the narratives of six survivors. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was chosen for its idiographic and interpretive focus on the meanings and individual sense-making of lived experiences. Semistructured interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed for emergent superordinate themes and subthemes. The results revealed three superordinate themes, which reflect three stages of the participants’ experience of Soviet political persecutions: the Existential Shock of Arrest and Deportation, the Angst of Survival and Identity Negotiation during the Exile, and Rebuilding Life and Seeking Meaning after Amnesty. Subthemes highlighted various dimensions of the effects of political repressions as well as coping mechanisms employed by the survivors. Additionally, the results examined how the participants made meaning of their experiences and explored their perceptions of long-term conse...
Experimentally Induced Selenosis in Yellow-Bellied Slider Turtles (Trachemys scripta scripta):

Selenosis, or selenium toxicosis, occurs in wildlife and livestock, usually because of excessive intake of selenium via selenium-containing plants. Although it is known that wild slider turtles can accumulate large amounts of selenium, little is known about how selenium exposure may affect these reptiles. In this study, the authors report histopathologic changes in yellow-bellied sliders ( Trachemys scripta scripta) caused by experimental exposure to selenomethionine. Microscopic changes in kidney and claw tissue were most significant and resembled those reported in birds. Turtles in the selenium treatment groups had acute tubular degeneration and regeneration in the kidney, with hyaline droplets in the high-dose animals, and changes in the claws ranging from epidermal hyperplasia with disorganization and intercellular edema to ulceration, and accumulation of seroheterophilic exudate between the epidermis and cornified layer. Although selenium burdens in this study are comparable with values found in wild slider turtles, more data are needed to determine if similar histopathologic abnormalities arise in wild animals exposed to high levels of selenium.
Farming adaptations in the face of climate change

Agriculture is one of the most vulnerable sectors to climate change, and in many agricultural communities climate change adaptations by farmers are underway. Farmers’ beliefs about climate change and their experiences with climate change, along with a range of other factors, could influence climate change adaptation. Utilizing a framework which draws from research examining how farmers’ climate change beliefs and experiences affect their adaptation strategies, and research on farm succession and adaptation at the rural–urban interface (RUI), we ask ‘How do climate change beliefs and different farm attributes (particularly the presence of an heir and location at the RUI) affect adaptation strategies?’ Preliminary findings indicate that adaptation varies based on multiple factors, including belief in climate change, the presence of an heir, geographical location and a variety of other farm characteristics and farmer attributes.
Automated Failure Diagnosis in Transmission Network Protection System Using Synchrophasors

In this paper, a multihypothesis-based centralized Failure Diagnosis in Protection System (FDProSys) tool using phasor measurement units (PMU) data has been proposed to systematically and automatically detect malfunctions or failures in protective devices. The proposed diagnostic algorithm and FDProSys tool employs synchrophasor measurements to select a section of the network called ProNet, with possible device malfunction. Multiple hypotheses have been generated automatically based on node incidence matrices and multihypothesis theory. The malfunction of the protective devices in the presence of fault and relay operation is identified by comparing the five-digit message of the real event with multiple hypotheses. Trustworthiness of PMU data caused by common failures, such as communication outage and GPS problems, has also been considered by the proposed algorithm using the PMU status flag. The developed tool FDProSys can also work with supervisory control and data acquisition data assisted by manual analysis with less accuracy and is robust enough to several PMU/relay failures. Simulation results using the IEEE 14-bus, IEEE 57-bus, and IEEE 300-bus systems demonstrate the accuracy of the developed algorithm.
Measurement of central venous pressure from a peripheral intravenous catheter in the prone position during spinal surgery.

INTRODUCTION A central venous pressure (CVP) measurement is used to assess intravascular status. Although this is usually accomplished by the placement of a central venous catheter (CVC), there are circumstances when placement may be technically difficult or impossible. The current study evaluates the feasibility of measuring CVP from a peripheral intravenous (IV) cannula in the prone position. METHODS CVP was simultaneously measured from a central venous catheter (CVC-P) and from a peripheral IV cannula (PVP). The continuity of the peripheral IV cannula with the central venous system was demonstrated by a change in the PVP during a sustained inspiratory effort. RESULTS The study cohort included 18 patients. All patients had 2 peripheral IV cannulae, and 10 PVP measurements were taken from each site. In 4 of the 36 cannulae (11%), there was no increase in the PVP in response to a sustained inspiratory effort. For these 4 cannulae, the PVP to CVC-P difference was 13 +/- 4 mm Hg. In the 32 cannulae in which the PVP increased in response to a sustained inspiratory effort, the PVP to CVC-P difference was 2 +/- 1 mm Hg (P < 0.0001), and the difference between the PVP and the CVC-P was <or=5 mm Hg in all of the sample sets. The accuracy of the technique did not vary based on the location of the peripheral cannula, its size, or the actual CVP reading. CONCLUSION Provided that the PVP increases to a sustained inspiratory breath, there is a clinically useful correlation between the PVP and the actual CVP in the prone position.
Biomaterials for Studies in Cellular Mechanotransduction

The conversion of mechanical stimuli into chemical signals is of the utmost importance for developmental and normal physiology. Mechanotransduction plays a pivotal role in regulating cellular function and, subsequent tissue maintenance and repair, apoptosis, and many other physiological functions, coupled with a broad array of soluble factors. The successful examination of how mechanotransduction effects cells’ function, in vitro, requires the ability to develop cell culture platforms that recapitulate extracellular environments in which the cells reside. Recently, significant progress in biomaterial design has allowed the examination of the effects mechanotransduction plays on a broad array of extracellular microenvironments. This chapter will review a series of biomaterials used for mechanotransduction studies specifically focusing on glass substrates, poly(dimethyl siloxane) (PDMS) and polymeric hydrogels, and also discuss strategies for designing advanced biomaterial systems.
Influence of the “Tropical Pump” on Trace Constituents and Temperature

Suppose that there is a trace constituent that is stratified vertically and is initially at rest with constant mixing ratio surfaces corresponding to horizontal surfaces. When we “turn on” a meridional mass circulation with upward motion at low latitudes and downward motion at high latitudes, the effect would be to push the constituent upward at low latitudes and downward at high latitudes, so that the mixing ratio surfaces become tilted (Fig. 1). Breaking planetary waves in the stratosphere will produce irreversible mixing of the tracer along isentropic surfaces. This mixing will tend to flatten the surfaces of the constant mixing ratio. Thus, mixing competes with the effects of the diabatic circulation. Mixing, however, is a local process, occurring in the region of wave breaking, while the diabatic circulation is a global scale process.
Considering Developmental Concepts From Attachment Theory to Inform Graduate Student Training in Global Trauma and Disaster Psychology

Graduate student training in global trauma and disaster psychology requires engagement with stressful learning contexts of both an academic and practical nature. These learning contexts require exp...
Coming Out (as a Poststructuralist): A Rant:

The authors, within the context of the first author Eric’s experiences, explore the politics of a hostile, academically violent pretenure environment as a poststructuralist scholar within a framewo...
IONIS-PKKRx a Novel Antisense Inhibitor of Prekallikrein and Bradykinin Production

Kallikrein is the key contact system mediator responsible for the conversion of high-molecular-weight kininogen into the inflammatory vasodilator peptide bradykinin, a process regulated by C1-esterase inhibitor (C1-INH). In hereditary angioedema (HAE), genetic mutations result in deficient or dysfunctional C1-INH and dysregulation of the contact system leading to recurrent, sometimes fatal, angioedema attacks. IONIS-PKKRx is a second-generation 2'-O-(2-methoxyethyl)-modified chimeric antisense oligonucleotide, designed to bind and selectively reduce prekallikrein (PKK) mRNA in the liver. IONIS-PKKRx demonstrated dose-dependent reduction of human prekallikrein hepatic mRNA and plasma protein in transgenic mice and dose- and time-dependent reductions of plasma PKK in Cynomolgus monkeys. Similar dose-dependent reductions of plasma PKK levels were observed in healthy human volunteers accompanied by decreases in bradykinin generation capacity with an acceptable safety and tolerability profile. These results highlight a novel and specific approach to target PKK for the treatment of HAE and other diseases involving contact system activation and overproduction of bradykinin.
Promoting Student Engagement: The Efficacy of a Criminal Justice Short-Term Study Abroad Program

In this study, the authors assessed student engagement during a short-term faculty-led criminal justice study abroad course using elements of the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE). Study Abroad education has been identified as a high impact learning strategy but has not been well validated particularly when delivered in a short-term format. This study is a partial replication of Rourke & Kanuka’s Student Engagement and Study Abroad study (2012). Data were collected from a group of Metropolitan State University of Denver undergraduate students over a period of two years from five different courses traveling to three different destinations for study abroad education. A comparison of responses from the two administrations of the NSSE-based surveys indicated that students’ engagement increased after their participation in the programs. Students’ knowledge in international criminal justice system also improved. Limitations and areas for further research are also discussed.
Differential Ability Scales (DAS)

The Differential Ability Scales (DAS; Elliott, 1990c) is a comprehensive battery of cognitive and achievement tests that are designed for children and adolescents between the ages of 2 1/2 and 17 years. The DAS is a revision and U.S. adaptation of the British Ability Scales (BAS; Elliott, Murray, & Pearson, 1979). There were, however, several changes made in the DAS from its progenitor. In addition to the collection of the U.S. normative sample, several new subtests were developed and a standard “core” battery was created. The DAS Cognitive Battery has both a preschool level (see Chapter 15) and a schoolage level. For school-aged children, there are also reading, mathematics, and spelling achievement tests that are described primarily as “screeners.” All of these measures were normed on the same sample to make the comparison of cognitive and achievement domains more appropriate (see Chapter 14).
Conservation of Momentum

In the corollaries that immediately follow, Newton explains how his laws of motion provide a method for solving various problems of mechanics—even complex ones involving multiple forces or multiple interacting bodies. Newton’s wheel, for example, illustrates what happens when multiple torques act on a rotatable body. In this example, the torques which act to rotate the wheel are caused by forces which are not directed perpendicularly to the lever arm. How does Newton deal with this added complication? Following Newton’s wheel example are three very important corollaries. They introduce what is now known as the principle of conservation of momentum. What does this principle state? Is it an independent principle, or does it follow from Newton’s axioms alone.
The Hybrid Quasiparticles in Organic-Semiconductor Quantum Dot System

In this work electronic structures and optical properties of organic-inorganic exciton and polaritons in two-dimensional heterostructures combining both organic and semiconductor materials are studied. In those systems, Wannier-Frenkel hybrid exciton has unique and interesting properties that can improve the efficiency of optical materials. When an organic-semiconductor combined heterostructure is illuminated by high-intensity electromagnetic radiation with the frequency of the photons at or near the resonance frequency of the Wannier-Frenkel exciton, we obtain a macroscopically occupied system of hybrid polaritons. We will theoretically determine electronic structure, energy and dispersion relation of the hybrid excitons and polaritons. By analyzing the parameters of the systems and the interactions between the Wannier and Frenkel excitons and the photons, we then discuss the conditions for hybridization.
A Parameter Optimization Method for Commutation Failure Prevention in LCC-HVDC system

LCC-HVDC has been playing an important role in long distance power transmission. As a principle problem of HVDC with traditional thyristor, commutation failure becomes more serious in modern large power grid. Firstly, this paper analyzed the commutation process and mechanism of commutation failure in details. Then the effective controller is presented to prevent commutation failure under symmetric and asymmetric faults. The key parameter "gain" of the controller is optimized by the nonlinear method Hooke-Jeeves of which the objective function is the inverter bus voltage deviation. Finally, the simulation result shows that the proposed method not only improves the immunity of commutation failure, but also reduces the fluctuations of system state variables.
An Architecture for Real-Time Reasoning and Learning.

This paper compares the various conceptions of “real-time” in the context of AI, as different ways of taking the processing time into consideration when problems are solved. An architecture of real-time reasoning and learning is introduced, which is one aspect of the AGI system NARS. The basic idea is to form problem-solving processes flexibly and dynamically at run time by using inference rules as building blocks and incrementally self-organizing the system’s beliefs and skills, under the restriction of time requirements of the tasks. NARS is designed under the Assumption of Insufficient Knowledge and Resources, which leads to an inherent ability to deal with varying situations in a timely manner.
Trichilemmal Cysts With Divergent Ductal Differentiation: A Series of 4 Cases.

ABSTRACT Trichilemmal cysts are common clonal tumors with a predilection for the scalp. They are composed of an outer epithelial wall resembling the outer root sheath in the isthmus of the hair follicle and a central core of compact keratin. Sweat duct differentiation is exceptional with only one convincing case reported to date. Here, we sought to characterize the clinicopathological characteristics of sweat duct differentiation in trichilemmal cysts. We reviewed all cases of trichilemmal cyst diagnosed at our institution between 2008 and 2019. Ductal structures were found in 4 of 411 cases (0.97%). Subjects included 2 male and 2 female patients with a median age of 37.5 years (range 34-55). The ducts were lined by attenuated epithelial cells and immunoreactive for polyclonal carcinoembryonic antigen and cytokeratin 7. Ductal differentiation involved a median of 7.5% (range 1%-50%) of the cyst wall. All 4 cases were from the scalp and treated with local excision. No recurrence was identified with a median follow-up period of 1.5 years (range 1-12 years). In summary, sweat duct differentiation in trichilemmal cysts is rare but likely under recognized. Conceptually, we suggest it represents a type of divergent cellular differentiation within a clonal neoplasm rather than a retention cyst or hybrid cyst.
The Haskins pediatric atlas: a magnetic-resonance-imaging-based pediatric template and atlas

Spatial normalization plays an essential role in multi-subject MRI and functional MRI (fMRI) experiments by facilitating a common space in which group analyses are performed. Although many prominent adult templates are available, their use for pediatric data is problematic. Generalized templates for pediatric populations are limited or constructed using older methods that result in less ideal normalization. The Haskins pediatric templates and atlases aim to provide superior registration and more precise accuracy in labeling of anatomical and functional regions essential for all fMRI studies involving pediatric populations. The Haskins pediatric templates and atlases were generated with nonlinear methods using structural MRI from 72 children (age range 7–14 years, median 10 years), allowing for a detailed template with corresponding parcellations of labeled atlas regions. The accuracy of these templates and atlases was assessed using multiple metrics of deformation distance and overlap. When comparing the deformation distances from normalizing pediatric data between this template and both the adult templates and other pediatric templates, we found significantly less deformation distance for the Haskins pediatric template (P<0.0001). Further, the correct atlas classification was higher using the Haskins pediatric template in 74% of regions (P<0.0001). The Haskins pediatric template results in more accurate correspondence across subjects because of lower deformation distances. This correspondence also provides better accuracy in atlas locations to benefit structural and functional imaging analyses of pediatric populations.
Differences in morphology and in composition and release of parotoid gland secretion in introduced cane toads (Rhinella marina) from established populations in Florida, USA

Cane toads are highly toxic bufonids invasive in several locations throughout the world. Although physiological changes and effects on native predators for Australian populations have been well documented, Florida populations have received little attention. Cane toads were collected from populations spanning the invaded range in Florida to assess relative toxicity, through measuring morphological changes to parotoid glands, likelihood of secretion, and the marinobufagenin (MBG) content of secretion. We found that residual body indices increased in individuals from higher latitude populations, and relative parotoid gland size increased with increasing toad size. There was no effect of latitude on the allometric relationship between gland size and toad size. We observed an increase in likelihood of secretion by cane toads in the field with increasing latitude. Individuals from southern and northern populations did not vary significantly in the quantity of MBG contained in their secretion. Laboratory-acclimated cane toads receiving injections of epinephrine were more likely to secrete poison with increasing dose, although there was no difference in likelihood of secretion between southern and northern populations. This suggests that differences between populations in the quantities of epinephrine released in the field, due to altered hypothalamic sensitivity upon disturbance, may be responsible for the latitudinal effects on poison secretion. Our results suggest that altered pressures from northward establishment in Florida have affected sympathetic sensitivity and defensive mechanisms of cane toads, potentially affecting risk to native predators.
Practical Guide to Implementation Science for Surgical Oncologists: Case Study of Breast Cancer Short Stay Program.

BACKGROUND Long lags exist in adoption and uptake of evidence-based interventions into real-world clinical practice based on oncology clinical trial results. Implementation science (IS) is a distinct field of health services research that aims to understand the barriers related to adoption of evidence-based guidelines and research in clinical practice. METHODS Use of IS study design, methods, and outcomes can be elusive to surgical oncologists despite the tremendous need for the application of IS to bridge the evidence-to-practice gap. This report describes key components of high-quality IS. RESULTS Herein, we illustrate how IS can be used in surgical oncology practice. Examples from implementation of the breast cancer Short Stay Program (SSP) in Netherlands is used to illustrate IS methods. Specific funding and training opportunities in implementation science are described in detail. CONCLUSION Use of IS in surgical oncology can help improve the uptake of evidence based medicine.
Quantitative alterations in the structural development of jejunal absorptive epithelial cells and their subcellular organelles in protein-energy-malnourished rats: a stereologic analysis.

Abstract The effect of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) on the structural development of rat jejunal absorptive epithelial cells was evaluated. Stereologic characteristics of jejunal histologic subcompartments, epithelial cell surfaces and volumes, and volumes of key subcellular organelles (nuclei, mitochondria, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes) in crypt and villus mid and tip cells were determined by morphometric analysis of light and electron micrographs in well-nourished rats and rats with PEM. In rats with PEM there were developmental alterations in cells migrating on villi that were not seen in crypt cells. The amplification of the apical microvillus surface between mid and tip levels in well-nourished rats (679–1085 μm 2 /cell) failed to occur in rats with PEM (807-729 μm 2 /cell). This resulted in an estimated 60% reduction of total jejunal absorptive surface, from 10,070 cm 2 in well-nourished rats to 3975 cm 2 in rats with PEM. In contrast, the development of the basolateral surface, which requires much less membrane accrual, was unaffected by PEM. Villus mid and tip cells of rats with PEM also had increased cell volume and mitochondrial volumes. Microvillus surface area per cell appears dependent on the number of microvilli per cell, which equals the cell flat surface times the microvillus numerical density (number of microvilli per square micrometer) in well-nourished rats. However, this relationship was not demonstrable in rats with PEM.
The opponent-process theory of motivation: VIII. Quantitative and qualitative manipulations of food both modulate adjunctive behavior

Abstract The present studies extend the opponent-process theory of acquired motivation to the schedule-induced polydipsia paradigm and more generally to adjunctive behavior. The theory suggests that manipulations of the quality and the size of the pellet presented on an intermittent schedule should be important modulators of polydipsia. In Experiment 1, presenting animals with preferred, less preferred, or least preferred food pellets on a fixed-time 120-sec schedule resulted in progressively lower levels of water intake. In Experiment 2, the quality and size of the pellet were manipulated factorially. These variables were found to interact in the control of both the development and maintenance of schedule-induced drinking. Thus, predictions from the opponent-process theory were supported by these findings.
Administrative Detention of Terrorists: Why Detain, and Detain Whom?

Especially after the recent Supreme Court decision in Boumediene v. Bush, holding that constitutional habeas corpus rights apply to detainees at Guantanamo, a debate burns over whether Congress should enact new laws authorizing preventive "administrative detention" of suspected terrorists outside the criminal justice system, perhaps overseen by a new "National Security Court". This Article argues that both sides of this debate analyze the problem and propose solutions backwards: they begin by focusing on procedural issues and institutional design (e.g. what kind of judge will decide cases; how will the suspect defend himself; etc) rather than first deciding (1) what is the strategic purpose of proposed new law, and (2) whom does it therefore aim to detain. It argues that only after answering the questions "why detain?" and "detain whom?" can the procedural and institutional details be drawn up and proposals weighed intelligently. It then recommends some answers to those questions and proposes appropriate, corresponding procedural and institutional architecture.
CAT SCRATCH DISEASE

SINCE the first report by Debre in 1950 of a syndrome of regional lymphadenopathy after a cat scratch, a number of publications reporting several hundred cases have firmly established cat scratch disease as a clinical entity. The role of the cat in the natural history of the disease is not clearly understood, but the available evidence suggests the cat acts as a vehicle of transmission of an infectious agent although its role as a reservoir of infection has not been completely ruled out. The usual method of transmission appears to be inoculation of the agent at the site of a cat scratch, but other possible methods of transmission such as inhalation of the agent are substantiated by the several reported cases with a history of contact with cats but with no definite history of a scratch. Daniels and MacMurray in 1954 reported an analysis of 160 cases, and in 1955 Kalter and associates summarized 250 cases which had come under their observation. Both of these reports gave excellent descriptions of the clinical features of the illness and this paper has drawn heavily upon their observations. The primary feature of the clinical syndrome of cat scratch disease is lymphadenopathy which is usually regional and restricted to the drainage area of the site of the inoculation. Involvement of the lymph nodes of the upper extremity after inoculation on the hand or arm is most frequently observed. Cervical or inguinal involvement is not uncommon and occasionally generalized lymphadenopathy has been reported. The nodes are usually quite large, ranging up to several centimeters in diameter.
Automation Middleware and Algorithms for Robotic Underwater Sensor Networks

Abstract : The long term goals of the project are: (1) To establish systems and algorithms for controlled Lagrangian particle tracking that will be used to improve the accuracy of model based prediction of trajectories of controlled underwater vehicles subjected to ocean current. (2) To achieve a mission planning system for robotic underwater sensor networks that are able to perform automatic or semiautomatic adaptation to extreme ocean conditions and platform failure, deployment, and recovery. We develop a set of automation middleware that implement a set of novel algorithms for robotic underwater sensor networks serving applications of ocean sampling and ocean model improvement. We design novel model adjustment, cooperative control, and distributed sensing algorithms that will be implemented through the automation middleware. The technical objectives include the following: 1. To investigate a new data assimilation procedure---the controlled Lagrangian particle tracking (CLPT)---and its ability to provide feedback adjustments on ocean modelling systems. To design a validation and adjustment algorithm for ocean models based on CLPT. 2. To develop an automatic middleware that integrates ocean models, robot models, and vehicle control systems towards more accurate prediction of the controlled trajectories of robots in the ocean. 3. To investigate cooperative filters and their ability to improve data quality collected by robotic underwater sensor networks. 4. To design automatic mission planning algorithms for missions with multiple objectives and multiple resolutions. To design a set of efficient and effective control and navigation algorithms that utilize ocean flow to increase mobility with guaranteed sampling performance. 5. To develop a mission planning and optimization system that automatically generates control laws and mission definitions based on user input about mission goals and constraints.
Simultaneous left ventricular assist device placement and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as a bridge to transplant for morbidly obese patients with severe heart failure

From the Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, Texas; Division of Critical Care, Pulmonary and Sleep, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, Texas; Center for Advanced Heart Failure, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, Texas; and the Michael E. DeBakey Institute for Comparative Cardiovascular Science and Biomedical Devices, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas.
ACCIDENTAL STRANGULATION IN INFANCY.

Six infant deaths due to accidental strangulation are presented. The hazards presented by certain restraining devices are emphasized and a plea is made for recognition of the potential risk of strangulation of babies in high chairs or crib.
Morton's ranking of races by cranial capacity. Unconscious manipulation of data may be a scientific norm

Samuel George Morton, self-styled objective empiricist, amassed the world's largest pre-Darwinian collection of human skulls. He measured their capacity and produced the results anticipated in an age when few Caucasians doubted their innate superiority: whites above Indians, blacks at the bottom. Morton published all his raw data, and it is shown here that his summary tables are based on a patchwork of apparently unconscious finagling. When his data are properly reinterpreted, all races have approximately equal capacities. Unconscious or dimly perceived finagling is probably endemic in science, since scientists are human beings rooted in cultural contexts, not automatons directed toward external truth.
The Controversy Concerning the Innervation of the Teeth

In studying the literature on the histology of the tooth, one is impressed with the want of unanimity in the views expressed by various writers. One cannot select a single tissue entering into the formation of the tooth, whose function is not, even today, interpreted in several ways. This is especially true in the problem of nerve fibers ending in association with the odontoblasts or penetrating the dentin and terminating in its substance. This is not due to the lack of careful work, but rather to the difficulty which surrounds these investigations. To search for the first allusions to nerves in the teeth is to go back to antiquity. The time when dental pain was not discussed is beyond our knowledge. Galen (Taylor, 1922) in his anatomical researches recognized seven pairs of cranial nerves and classified the trigeminus as the third. Galen also records two sites of pain, one in the tooth and the other in the surrounding tissues (Latham, 1901). Aetius of Amida, 502-575, a celebrated Greek physician and author stated the cause of toothache was known only to God. He taught that the mucous membrane of the mouth tissues is provided with nerves from the 3rd pair of cerebral nerves and that the teeth, too, by a small hole existing at the end of every root, receive tiny ramifications of sensitive nerves, having the same origin (Weinberger, 1926). Leeuwenhoeck (1678) gave the first description of the tubular nature of the dentin from observations made on one of his own teeth. However it was not until some 170 years later that the dentinal tubules were cited as being a possible structural element whose contents entered into the cause of dental pain.
Ultrastructural studies of the site of action of ryanodine on heart muscle

A correlation has been identified between the sensitivity of cardiac muscle to ryanodine and the presence in the muscle of a transverse tubular system. Thus ryanodine failed to inhibit cardiac contraction in tissues which lack a transverse tubular system such as mammalian fetal heart and batracian heart. In the mammalian newborn the inhibition of contractile tension by ryanodine increased during that period of growth when evidence for a developing T system was apparent in electron micrographs. Concentrations of ryanodine sufficient to inhibit contraction of adult mammalian heart muscle were observed to alter the ultrastructure of the tissue. Ryanodine treatment brought about a separation of the sarcolemma at the level of the Z lines and appeared to cause wrinkling and an apparent evagination of the sarcolemma at sarcomere lengths of 2 μ or less. It is suggested that ryanodine inhibits contraction of adult mammalian heart muscle by dissociating the T tubules from the sarcoplasmic reticulum system and thus uncoupling excitation from contraction.
Sea Surface Temperature Changes in the Northeastern Pacific Ocean during the Past 20,000 Years and Their Relationship to Climate Change in Northwestern North America

Modern ocean–atmosphere interactions in the northeastern Pacific Ocean have a significant effect on the climate of the west coast of North America. We present radiolarian microfossil-based temperature reconstructions for the eastern North Pacific spanning the past 20,000 yr to examine possible correlations and linkages between continental climate change and changes in sea surface temperature (SST) in the northeastern Pacific Ocean on millennial time scales. The reconstructions indicate that the regional pattern of ocean circulation off the west coast of North America was further south 15,000 cal yr B.P. than it is today, and reached its present location 13,000 cal yr B.P. The North Pacific Drift and Transition Zone were further south as a result of a more southerly North Pacific high pressure cell prior to 13,000 cal yr B.P. While two continental paleoclimate records from northwestern North America show regional differences, they also can be correlated to the SST changes. A coastal site at 48°N shows similar patterns in summer temperatures, as observed in offshore marine records of SSTs. However, an inland continental record seems to reflect more-regional-scale changes in sea surface conditions showing a thermal maximum centered at 10,000 cal yr B.P which is observed in the marine transect south of 42°N. We conclude, based on the pattern of oceanographic change as reflected in radiolarian assemblages, that changes in the past latitudinal position of the North Pacific Drift played a significant role in controlling continental climate immediately to its east, as it does in the present environment. We also conclude that during the past 20,000 yr much of the evolution of oceanographic change is related to the migration of the atmospheric pressure cells (the North Pacific high and Aleutian low) of the northeastern Pacific.
Selecting an Appropriate Multivariate Source Apportionment Model Result

Two easily available multivariate source apportionment models, Unmix and positive matrix factorization (PMF), often produce nearly the same source apportionment. However, this paper gives two examp...
Nasalized vowels and semiconsonants in Haitian Creole

The Haitian Creole vocalic system includes both nasalized and oral varieties. Relatively recent analyses can be found in Hall 1953, D'Ans 1968, Valdman 1970, Ferere 1977 and Ferere 1979. Ferere 1977 deals specifically with the oral front rounded phonemes. The solutions proposed by the various creolists do not always coincide. In this paper, the writer, a native speaker of Haitian Creole, does not intend to make a detailed study of their findings, but simply to review the different treatments offered for vowels and semiconsonants, in general, and to propose one which he believes to be most appropriate for the nasalized varieties in particular.
An efficient cost scaling algorithm for the assignment problem

The cost scaling push-relabel method has been shown to be efficient for solving minimum-cost flow problems. In this paper we apply the method to the assignment problem and investigate implementations of the method that take advantage of assignment's special structure. The results show that the method is very promising for practical use.
Compiling rules from constraint satisfaction problem solving

We have been developing a learning system for automating the acquisition of problem solving knowledge. The basic technique used is the compilation of rules from observation of problem solving behavior. Our approach is novel in attempting to compile rules from the observation of constraint-based, relaxation-based problem solving.
On the design and optimisation of a multi–functional lightweight vehicular armour plate with functionally graded foams (FGF)

This paper presents a theoretical concept study on the electromagnetic (EM) and shock wave mitigation capability of a novel sandwich armour panel in combat vehicles, which consists of two composite face-sheets and a core made of multi-layered Functionally Graded Foams (FGF). By carefully designing the gradient pattern of the core, the radar and blast wave attenuation performance of the structure can be improved through mathematical modelling and analysis. In this study, analytical models were first developed to predict the EM wave reflection and shock wave transmission of the sandwich structure designed. Based on the analytical models, a parametric study was performed to investigate the effect of gradient pattern on each of the two design objectives, and then a multi-objective optimisation was conducted to generate the optimal design. This new approach makes it possible to develop a multi-functional lightweight armour plate for military combat vehicle against radar surveillance systems and blast attack in battlefields.
Teledebriefing: connecting learners to faculty members

Summary Background Simulation has become widespread among medical educators. Although simulation facilities are available at most teaching institutions, the number of qualified instructors to facilitate post-simulation debriefing is inadequate, resulting in sub-par educational experiences for learners. Context Efforts to broaden medical curricula to include simulation have been successful. An integral component of simulation-based education is the debriefing stage, in which learning and reflection are believed to be greatest. To be maximally effective, debriefing should be performed by faculty members who have both expertise in the subject matter and a strong grasp of debriefing principles. Unfortunately, the debriefing portion of simulation exercises is often performed in a sub-par fashion because many simulation centres do not have access to trained debriefers. As a result, the overall experience of simulation training programmes is reduced, and the exercises have much less educational benefit to the learner. Innovation This article outlines a novel use of videoconferencing technology for debriefing learners at remote locations, which we term teledebriefing. This can be accomplished in a cost-effective and straightforward manner using basic equipment: a smartphone and a television. Many simulation centres do not have access to trained debriefers Implications Teledebriefing can create a mutually beneficial faculty instructor network between institutions. By connecting clinical educators from geographically distant areas or from specialties not available locally, learners are exposed to faculty that can provide content expertise and high-quality debriefing during simulation exercises. Evaluating the effectiveness and feasibility of teledebriefing is warranted.
Flow models for back-arc spreading

Abstract A secondary flow model for back-arc spreading is developed in this paper that shows some of the characteristics of observed back-arc spreading. Back-arc spreading has formed marginal seas around the west and southwest rim of the Pacific. The episodic spreading and different directions of opening are not completely understood; however, there does appear to be a limited lifetime (
Type 1 Adenylyl Cyclase Is Essential for Maintenance of Remote Contextual Fear Memory

Although molecular mechanisms for hippocampus-dependent memory have been extensively studied, much less is known about signaling events important for remote memory. Here we report that mice lacking type 1 adenylyl cyclase (AC1) are able to establish and retrieve remote contextual memory but unable to sustain it as long as wild-type mice. Interestingly, mice overexpressing AC1 show superior remote contextual memory even though they exhibit normal hippocampus-dependent contextual memory. These data illustrate that calcium coupling to cAMP contributes to the stability of remote memory and identifies AC1 as a potential drug target site to improve long-term remote memory.
Dectin-1 activates Syk tyrosine kinase in a dynamic subset of macrophages for reactive oxygen production

Dectin-1 is a lectin receptor for β-glucan that is important for innate macrophage recognition of fungi and contributes to phagocytosis, reactive oxygen production, and induction of inflammatory cytokines. The mechanisms by which Dectin-1 mediates intracellular signaling are just beginning to be defined. Spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) is a protein tyrosine kinase that is critical for adaptive immune responses where it mediates signaling through B-cell receptors, T-cell receptors, and Fc receptors. Here we report that Dectin-1 activates Syk in macrophages and is important for Dectin-1-stimulated reactive oxygen production, but not for phagocytosis. Syk activation is restricted to a subpopulation of macrophages that is in equilibrium with cells that cannot activate the pathway. The proportion of macrophages using this signaling pathway can be modulated by cytokine treatment. Thus, Dectin-1 signaling reveals dynamic macrophage heterogeneity in inflammatory activation potential. (Blood. 2005;106:2543-2550)
Arabidopsis monothiol glutaredoxin, AtGRXS17, is critical for temperature-dependent postembryonic growth and development via modulating auxin response

Global environmental temperature changes threaten innumerable plant species. Although various signaling networks regulate plant responses to temperature fluctuations, the mechanisms unifying these diverse processes are largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate that an Arabidopsis monothiol glutaredoxin, AtGRXS17 (At4g04950), plays a critical role in redox homeostasis and hormone perception to mediate temperature-dependent postembryonic growth. AtGRXS17 expression was induced by elevated temperatures. Lines altered in AtGRXS17 expression were hypersensitive to elevated temperatures and phenocopied mutants altered in the perception of the phytohormone auxin. We show that auxin sensitivity and polar auxin transport were perturbed in these mutants, whereas auxin biosynthesis was not altered. In addition, atgrxs17 plants displayed phenotypes consistent with defects in proliferation and/or cell cycle control while accumulating higher levels of reactive oxygen species and cellular membrane damage under high temperature. Together, our findings provide a nexus between reactive oxygen species homeostasis, auxin signaling, and temperature responses.
The Effects of Perceived Closeness to Custodial Parents, Stepparents and Nonresident Parents on Adolescent Self-Esteem

Abstract Using data from 930 adolescents in custodial mother-stepfather families, and 301 adolescents in custodial father-stepmother families, the influences of closeness to parental figures-custodial, step, and nonresidenton adolescents' self-esteem were examined. Using family systems theory as a framework, the primary research question addressed was whether the relative influence of each parent on adolescents' self-esteem depended primarily on their status as custodial, step-, or nonresident parents, and whether these influences differed for adolescents with stepmothers, compared to those with stepfathers. Results indicate that adolescents' perceived closeness to their female resident parents (custodial or step-) has a positive effect on self-esteem. Closeness to resident female parents explains the largest relative proportion of the variance in adolescent self-esteem, compared to male resident parents or to nonresident parents of either sex.