cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Treatment of Perifolliculitis Capitis Abscedens et Suffodiens with the Carbon Dioxide Laser

. We describe the successful use of the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser for localized surgical therapy in a patient with perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens that was refractory to conservative treatment.
Avian RNA Tumor Viruses

Avian RNA tumor viruses are a group with certain characteristics that can be defined by both pathogenic and molecular criteria. Other designations which have been used for RNA tumor virus include leukovirus, oncornavirus (oncogenic RNA), Rous virus, retravirus (reverse transcriptase positive virus), rnadna virus (RNA → DNA virus), and type C Virus. Historically, the viruses have been isolated from birds with certain diseases and so have been named after these diseases. The following viruses are considered to belong to the avian RNA tumor virus group.
Temperature-Dependent Infrared Absorption of Hg-Based II-VI Semiconductor Superlattices

The optical absorption of a series of HgTe/Cd0.85Hg0. 15Te superlattices (SLs) have been measured in the spectral region from 2 to 12 μm at temperatures from 300 K down to 4.2 K. Several subband transitions were identified and their transition energies were compared with theoretical calculations, with the valence band offset ΔEv between HgTe and CdTe as a fitting parameter. It is found that at a given temperature, a value of ΔEv = 420 ± 100 meV fits the results of all the SLs, and ΔEv does not depend on temperature to within ±100 meV.
Photoswitchable Nanoparticles for Triggered Tissue Penetration and Drug Delivery

We report a novel nanoparticulate drug delivery system that undergoes reversible volume change from 150 to 40 nm upon phototriggering with UV light. The volume change of these monodisperse nanoparticles comprising spiropyran, which undergoes reversible photoisomerization, and PEGylated lipid enables repetitive dosing from a single administration and enhances tissue penetration. The photoswitching allows particles to fluoresce and release drugs inside cells when illuminated with UV light. The mechanism of the light-induced size switching and triggered-release is studied. These particles provide spatiotemporal control of drug release and enhanced tissue penetration, useful properties in many disease states including cancer.
Equilibrium shapes and stability of captive annular menisci

Equilibrium shapes and stability of annular fluid menisci held together by surface tension are analysed by applying asymptotic and computer-aided techniques from bifurcation theory. The shapes and locations of the menisci are governed by the Young–Laplace equation. These shapes are grouped together into families of like symmetry that branch from the basic family of annular shapes at specific values of the aspect ratio, α. Multiple equilibrium shapes exist over certain values of α. The inner, outer or both the inner and outer interfaces may possess either a cylindrical or sinusoidal equilibrium shape. Changes in applied pressure, fluid volume, or gravitational Bond number break families of the same symmetry which now develop limit points. Numerical calculations rely on a finite-element representation of the interfaces and the results compare very well with asymptotic analysis which is valid for small deformations. The results are important for the blow moulding process and are invaluable in understanding its dynamics. These dynamics are expected to be considerably different from the dynamics of a liquid jet first analysed by Rayleigh.
Optical dielectric function of gold

In metal optics gold assumes a special status because of its practical importance in optoelectronic and nano-optical devices, and its role as a model system for the study of the elementary electronic excitations that underlie the interaction of electromagnetic fields with metals. However, largely inconsistent values for the frequency dependence of the dielectric function describing the optical response of gold are found in the literature. We performed precise spectroscopic ellipsometry measurements on evaporated gold, template-stripped gold, and single-crystal gold to determine the optical dielectric function across a broad spectral range from 300 nm to 25 $\ensuremath{\mu}$m (0.05--4.14 eV) with high spectral resolution. We fit the data to the Drude free-electron model, with an electron relaxation time ${\ensuremath{\tau}}_{D}=14\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}3$ fs and plasma energy $\ensuremath{\hbar}{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{p}=8.45$ eV. We find that the variation in dielectric functions for the different types of samples is small compared to the range of values reported in the literature. Our values, however, are comparable to the aggregate mean of the collection of previous measurements from over the past six decades. This suggests that although some variation can be attributed to surface morphology, the past measurements using different approaches seem to have been plagued more by systematic errors than previously assumed.
Development of individually addressable micromirror arrays for space applications

A 2D array of individually addressable micro-mirrors with 100 micrometers by 100 micrometers pixel size, capable of tilting +/- 100 by electrostatic actuation is being developed and fabricated at the Detector Development Laboratory of NASA, GSFC. The development requires integration of CMOS and MEMS fabrication processes. We have competed extensive analytical studies and performed laboratory test to compare model predictions with actual performance of a 3 by 3 array. We are testing the address and driver circuit for a 32 by 32 array and also developing the process integration of the CMOS and MEMS fabrication of the larger arrays. The mirrors are capable of operating at cryogenic temperature for astronomical applications. Our goal is to extend the development to a 25 6by 256 array for a wide variety of space applications including the multi-object-spectrometer in the next generation space telescope.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Perturbed reward processing in pediatric bipolar disorder: an antisaccade study

Pediatric bipolar disorder is a severe and impairing illness. Characterizing the impact of pediatric bipolar disorder on cognitive function might aid in understanding the phenomenology of the disorder. While previous studies of pediatric bipolar disorder have reported deficits in cognitive control and reward behavior, little is understood about how affective processes influence behavioral control. Relative to prior studies using manual-response paradigms, eye movement tasks provide a more precise assessment of reward sensitivity and cognitive and motor control. The current study compares 20 youths with bipolar disorder (mean age = 13.9 years ± 2.22) and 23 healthy subjects (mean age = 13.8 years ± 2.49) on a mixed pro-antisaccade task with monetary incentives. On both types of saccades, participants were presented with three types of incentives: those where subjects can win money, lose money, or neither win nor lose money. Impaired reward processing was found in youths with bipolar disorder relative to controls, particularly on antisaccades. This difference was reflected in lower error rates during incentive trials in the control but not in the bipolar disorder group. By comparison, no group differences were found on prosaccade trials. The results provide further evidence for deficits in cognitive and reward processing in bipolar disorder.
Fe isotope fractionation during phase separation in the NaCl-H2O system: An experimental study with implications for seafloor hydrothermal vents

Abstract Phase separation has been proposed as a possible mechanism contributing to the Fe isotope composition of hydrothermal fluids at mid-ocean ridges. The uncertainty results largely from the emphasis on field data that can involve competing processes that obscure cause and effect of any one process. To better understand the potential significance of phase separation in the NaCl–Fe–H 2 O system on Fe isotope fractionation, temperature and pressure of a Fe-bearing NaCl fluid in a titanium flow reactor were carefully adjusted to produce vapor ± liquid ± halite, while the Fe isotope composition between coexisting phases was monitored. Two different P–T regions were emphasized: (1) 424–420 °C, 35.2–31.5 MPa; and (2) 464–466 °C, 29.8–24.7 MPa. Both regions were chosen to simulate the range of physical conditions that are experienced by hydrothermal fluids at mid-ocean ridges (MORs). Decompression induced phase separation in both P–T regions results in the vapor phase becoming enriched in the heavier isotopes of Fe, as the Fe/Cl ratio decreases. The coexisting NaCl-rich liquid phase remains essentially constant with respect to Fe/Cl ratio and Fe isotope composition. Coinciding with the lowest vapor chlorinity in the vapor–liquid stability field, the Fe/Cl ratio of the vapor abruptly increases, while the Fe isotope fractionation between the vapor and liquid ( 10 3 ln ⁡ α V / L 56 / 54 ) reached a maximum value of + 0.145 ± 0.048 ‰ . Subsequently, Fe isotope fractionation decreased upon transition into the vapor–halite stability field (P–T region 2). We infer that the observed Fe isotope fractionation between vapor ± liquid ± halite is caused by differences in Fe speciation among coexisting chloride-bearing phases. The experimental study confirms for the first time that measurable Fe isotope variability can result from phase separation in high temperature hydrothermal systems. The species-dependent Fe isotope fractionation reported here is small relative to predicted mineral–mineral and mineral–fluid fractionations, especially if redox effects are involved as might occur during vent fluid–seawater mixing reactions and/or magmatic activity associated with seafloor eruptive episodes.
Transurethral resection versus needlebiopsy prior to radical prostatectomy for stage C prostate cancer influence on progression and survival

Previous reports have claimed that transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) preceding definitive radiation therapy for patients with Stage C prostate cancer promotes the risk of distant metastasis and increases the mortality rate. A total of 490 patients with pathologic Stage C adenocarcinoma of the prostate treated by radical prostatectomy were studied. Median time to follow-up was 4.6 years. Comparison was made between patients who had TURP within the six months preceding prostatectomy (n = 54) and those who had needle biopsy (n = 437) prior to operation. No significant differences were noted in local recurrence of disease, systemic progression of disease, disease-free interval, and overall and cause-specific survival, even after adjustment for clinical (adjuvant treatment) and pathologic prognostic variables. Our data suggest that for patients with pathologic Stage C prostate cancer treated by radical surgery, preoperative TURP is not associated with unfavorable outcome.
Analysis of solar cell quality using voltage metrics

The highest efficiency solar cells provide both excellent voltage and current. Of these, the open-circuit voltage (V oc ) is more frequently viewed as an indicator of the material quality. However, since the V oc also depends on the band gap of the material, the difference between the band gap and the V oc is a better metric for comparing material quality of unlike materials. To take this one step further, since V oc also depends on the shape of the absorption edge, we propose to use the ultimate metric: the difference between the measured V oc and the V oc calculated from the external quantum efficiency using a detailed balance approach. This metric is less sensitive to changes in cell design and definition of band gap. The paper defines how to implement this metric and demonstrates how it can be useful in tracking improvements in V oc , especially as V oc approaches its theoretical maximum.
A flexible processor allocation strategy for mesh connected parallel systems

Large mesh connected parallel systems callow multiple applications to run simultaneously on distinct, non-overlapping sub-meshes. This improves overall efficiency, since few (if any) individual applications can effectively use all of the available processors. The sub-mesh allocation strategy forms a crucial component in such systems and affects many performance criteria including system throughput, processor utilization, and application turnaround time. We propose a new sub-mesh allocation strategy called flexfold. When a request for an a/spl times/b sub-mesh arrives, flexfold first searches for a/spl times/b and b/spl times/a sub-meshes, as expected. If appropriate, it may additionally search for a/2/spl times/2b, 2a/spl times/b/2, 2b/spl times/a/2, and b/2/spl times/2a sub-meshes. At the expense of sometimes increasing their execution time, flexfold accommodates incoming applications earlier than other strategies. Simulation results indicate that a simple test suffices to determine when this trade-off is beneficial and flexfold achieves better overall performance compared to other algorithms. Flexfold is completely transparent to the application programmer and does not require additional architectural support beyond what already exists.
Clinical Characteristics of Human Monkeypox, and Risk Factors for Severe Disease

Results. Of 34 patients with a confirmed case of monkeypox, 5 (15%) were defined as severely ill, and 9 (26%) were hospitalized for 148 h; no patients died. Previous smallpox vaccination was not associated with disease severity or hospitalization. Pediatric patients (age, 18 years) were more likely to be hospitalized in an intensive care unit. Nausea and/or vomiting and mouth sores were independently associated with a hospitalization duration of 148 h and with having 3 laboratory tests with abnormal results. Conclusion. Monkeypox can cause a severe clinical illness, with systemic signs and symptoms and abnormal clinical laboratory findings. In the appropriate epidemiologic context, monkeypox should be included in the differential diagnosis for patients with unusual vesiculopustular exanthems, mucosal lesions, gastrointestinal symptoms, and abnormal hematologic or hepatic laboratory findings. Clinicians evaluating a rash illness consistent with possible orthopoxvirus infection should alert public health officials and consider further evaluation.
Toward Student Development Of A Better Understanding Of The Cash Flow Statement

FASB Statement No. 95, Statement of Cash Flows has now been in existence for more than ten years (since 1988) and yet, there still has not been any consensus about how to effectively evaluate information provided from this statement. Accounting educators should be the primary personnel for disseminating the necessary information for understanding the cash flow statement as well as for providing the analytical tools for evaluating the cash flow information. Carslaw and Mills (1992) provided a preliminary study that examined the intermediate textbooks to determine what the authors were providing in terms of analytical tools for evaluating cash flow information. The study concluded that while all the textbook authors point out that the cash flow statement should be used to evaluate liquidity and financial flexibility, none provided analytical tools for evaluation. The Carslaw and Mills article then provided a series of suggested ratios that they felt might provide a foundation for analyzing cash flow information. This paper is a follow-up of the prior study. We reviewed the information in the current intermediate accounting texts that provides a basis for the evaluation of the cash flow statement. Our conclusion is that, while some authors have attempted to provide better measures of cash flow information, ten years later, there is still no common consensus among authors on providing the necessary tools for properly analyzing cash flow information.
Effect of growth hormone treatment on diastolic function in patients who have developed growth hormone deficiency after definitive treatment of acromegaly.

Abstract Objective Although growth hormone (GH) replacement is prescribed for patients with hypopituitarism due to many etiologies, it is not routinely prescribed for patients with GH deficiency (GHD) after cure of acromegaly (acroGHD). This study was designed to investigate the effect of GH replacement on cardiac parameters in acroGHD. Design We prospectively evaluated for 12months 23 patients with acroGHD: 15 subjects on GH replacement and eight subjects not on GH replacement. Main outcome measures included LV mass corrected for body surface area (LVM/BSA) and measures of diastolic dysfunction (E/A ratio and deceleration time), as assessed by echocardiography. Results After 12months of follow-up, there were no differences between the GH-treated group and the untreated group in LVM/BSA (GH: 74.4±22.5g/m 2 vs untreated: 72.9±21.3g/m 2 , p=0.89), E/A ratio (GH: 1.21±0.39 vs untreated: 1.08±0.39, p=0.50) or deceleration time (GH: 224.5±60.1ms vs untreated: 260±79.8ms, p=0.32). The overall degree of diastolic function was similar between the groups with 42.9% of untreated subjects and 50% of GH-treated subjects (p=0.76) classified as having normal diastolic function at follow-up. Conclusions There were no significant differences in LVM/BSA or parameters of diastolic function in patients with a history of acromegaly treated for GHD as compared to those who were untreated. These data are reassuring with respect to cardiovascular safety with GH use after treatment for acromegaly, although further longer term study is necessary to evaluate the safety and efficacy of GH treatment in this population.
Stochastic Analysis of Profitability of the Pig Breeding Process

This study deals with the economy of agricultural production, specifically in animal farming. The main goal is to find and apply an efficient simulation model of pig breeding process in order to investigate the impact of various changes in the production settings on the economy of a particular pig breeding. For this reason, it is necessary to take values given in the study as model ones. Costs at particular parts of the breeding process were used as the main simulation inputs, together with number of parities, length of farrowing interval, number of weaned piglets depending on a parity number, lactation length, and the gestation length of sows. Additional inputs were price of produced piglets, price of insemination doses etc. Statistical distributions for the simulations of the inputs were obtained with theoretical curve fitting of sample data, which were provided from research projects focused on piglet production efficiency. The empirical distribution of sow profitability depending on the number of parities, which can help to decide about the culling of sows from the herd, was also determined in the research. A simulation was performed using the program @RISK. The obtained results and recommendations are discussed at the end of the paper.
Thyroxine-evoked precocious decrease of acid hydrolases in the ileum of suckling rats.

SummaryDaily administration of thyrox-ine (200 μg/100g/BW 24 hr s.c.) to intact suckling rats (from 7 to 13 days of postnatal age) and to suckling adrenal-ectomized rats (from 14 to 18 days) caused a precocious decrease of acid-β-galacto-sidase, β-glucuronidase and N-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase in the ileum of the small intestine. Thyroxine treatment evoked also a precocious increase of jejunal sucrase and maltase activities.
Redox Control of Stilbylvinylpyridine Chormophore Pairwise Orientations: Towards Solid State Materials for Molecular Electronics

Tripodal ligand complexes of copper salts are described that display redoxdependent exciton coupled circular dichroism spectra. Significant spectral amplitude is observed at 400 nm in both solution and microcrystalline films. The synthesis and characterization of two new ligands and the preliminary characterization of the circular dichroism properties of their copper complexes is reported. The results constitute a significant step toward the development of molecules that can be used as on/off molecular switches.
Human Systems Integration: A Discrete Event Simulation of Operational Utility for Control of Multiple Small Unmanned Aerial Systems

Recently, small unmanned aircraft systems have become ubiquitous in military battlefield operations due to their intelligence collection capabilities. However, the operator's interaction with the system and the system's environment reduces potential surveillance time, thus encouraging further research into human system integration (HSI). Single operator-focused discrete event simulation serves to evaluate Human Computer Interaction (HCI) for multi-vehicle employment. The model incorporates statistical time measurement for operational tasks, as well as empirical models of HCI performance. Paired t-tests show statistical benefit in surveillance time of employing autonomous relay navigation and managing multiple pairs of small unmanned aerial systems for beyond line-of-sight missions.
Influence of slaughter weight on growth and carcass characteristics, commercial cutting and curing yields, and meat quality of barrows and gilts from two genotypes.

Pigs representing two crossbred genotypes, a breeding company hybrid (BCH) and a three-breed cross (Hampshire x [Yorkshire x Duroc]) (HYD) were evaluated at five slaughter weights (SLW) : 100, 115, 130, 145, and 160 kg. A total of 160 pigs were grown in like-sex (barrows [B] or gilts [G]), like-genotype groups, with four pigs/group, from 60 kg live weight. A corn-soybean meal-based diet was available on an ad libitum basis (15.8% crude protein, 3,300 kcal/kg ME). One-half of the pigs from each group (80 pigs) were slaughtered for carcass and meat quality evaluation. Genotype BCH grew faster, had lower backfat depths in the loin and lumbar regions, and a smaller loin eye area than HYD, but both groups had a similar gain :feed ratio. Few consistent genotype differences in cutting and curing yields and meat quality were observed. Differences between sexes for growth and carcass traits were generally in agreement with previous research ; however, the magnitude of the differences was small. There were few nonlinear regressions involving SLW and limited differences between genotypes or sexes in the slopes of the linear regressions. Increases in SLW were associated with increases in feed intake, backfat depth and loin eye area, and minimal changes in growth rate or gain :feed. Percentage of loin increased and ham, shoulder, and spare rib percentages decreased with slaughter weight. The weight of trimmed, boneless cuts increased with slaughter weight, but percentage trimmed, boneless cuts was reduced. Curing yields for belly increased with slaughter weight. Changes in meat quality with increasing slaughter weight were relatively small. Longissimus lumborum fat content increased and moisture content decreased with slaughter weight. These results suggest that modern genotypes can be slaughtered at live weights up to 160 kg with limited impact on growth performance, commercial meat yields, or meat quality characteristics.
Blind, greedy, and random: algorithms for matching and clustering using only ordinal information

We study the Maximum Weighted Matching problem in a partial information setting where the agents' utilities for being matched to other agents are hidden and the mechanism only has access to ordinal preference information. Our model is motivated by the fact that in many settings, agents cannot express the numerical values of their utility for different outcomes, but are still able to rank the outcomes in their order of preference. Specifically, we study problems where the ground truth exists in the form of a weighted graph, and look to design algorithms that approximate the true optimum matching using only the preference orderings for each agent (induced by the hidden weights) as input. If no restrictions are placed on the weights, then one cannot hope to do better than the simple greedy algorithm, which yields a half optimal matching. Perhaps surprisingly, we show that by imposing a little structure on the weights, we can improve upon the trivial algorithm significantly: we design a 1.6-approximation algorithm for instances where the hidden weights obey the metric inequality. Our algorithm is obtained using a simple but powerful framework that allows us to combine greedy and random techniques in unconventional ways. These results are the first non-trivial ordinal approximation algorithms for such problems, and indicate that we can design robust matchings even when we are agnostic to the precise agent utilities.
Diagnostic accuracy of nasal nitric oxide measurement for establishing diagnosis of primary ciliary dyskinesia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Diagnosis of Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) remains difficult and challenging. We evaluated the diagnostic performance of nasal Nitric Oxide (nNO) for detection of PCD, using either Velum-Closure (VC) or a non-Velum-Closure (non-VC) technique. Methods: All major electronic databases were searched from inception until September 2014 using appropriate terms. The sensitivity and specificity of nNO measurement was compared against diagnoses of PCD achieved by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high speed video-microscopy (HSVM) or genetic testing. We also drew summary receiver operating curves (HSROC) using parameters of the fitted models. Results: Twelve studies were synthesized, nine case-control (n=793) and three prospective cohorts (n=306). The summary sensitivity of low nNO measured by VC techniques was 0.96 (95% CIs 0.90-0.98), while specificity was 0.95 (95% CIs 0.89-0.97) (Figure 1a). For the non-VC techniques, the summary sensitivity of nNO to detect PCD was 0.94 (95% CIs 0.89-0.97) whereas specificity was 0.94 (95% CIs 0.77-0.99) (Figure 1b). Conclusion: Overall diagnostic performance of nNO measurement both with VC and non-VC maneuvers as reported in different studies underlines the effectiveness of nNO against TEM and HSVM or genetic testing to detect PCD, even in young children, thus potentiating early diagnosis and improved prognosis.
Investigating a Chemoselective Grignard Reaction in an Undergraduate Discovery Lab To Predict Reactivity and Final Products

A discovery-based Grignard experiment that emphasizes several important concepts in organic chemistry is reported. The Grignard reagent from 1-bromo-4-chlorobenzene was prepared and reacted with dimethylformamide (DMF) to synthesize 4-chlorobenzaldehyde. Students were tasked with predicting halogen reactivity in the formation of the Grignard reagent, predicting the final product, and drawing a reasonable mechanism for the reaction with DMF. The Grignard reaction with tertiary amides is typically not discussed in the organic chemistry curriculum, so the students have an opportunity to apply concepts covered in lecture to a new situation. Lastly, the students experimentally verified the identity of the product using thin layer chromatography, melting point analysis, gas chromatography, IR and NMR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry.
Matrix Feed Forward Networks

In this chapter, the simplest type of graph of computational nodes is outlined. In this model of a neural system, the nodes are organized into discrete layers: an input layer, one or more in between layers called hidden layers and a final layer called the output layer. Nodal processing is sigmoid based and the layers of nodes are fully connected by scalar valued links. This model is then used to map a given input to a given output set by minimizing the least squared error due to the mismatch between the outputs of this model and the output set. This type of model is called a matrix feed forward network or MFFN as all links are feedforward and feedback links are not allowed. The mathematics here is matrix and vector based and the minimization of the least squared error is done using gradient descent. The recursive algorithm for calculating the partial derivatives required is called back propagation. Finally, MatLab codes to minimize the least squared error are presented along with examples.
Regulation of mTORC1 by lysosomal calcium and calmodulin

Blockade of lysosomal calcium release due to lysosomal lipid accumulation has been shown to inhibit mTORC1 signaling. However, the mechanism by which lysosomal calcium regulates mTORC1 has remained undefined. Herein we report that proper lysosomal calcium release through the calcium channel TRPML1 is required for mTORC1 activation. TRPML1 depletion inhibits mTORC1 activity, while overexpression or pharmacologic activation of TRPML1 has the opposite effect. Lysosomal calcium activates mTORC1 by inducing association of calmodulin (CaM) with mTOR. Blocking the interaction between mTOR and CaM by antagonists of CaM significantly inhibits mTORC1 activity. Moreover, CaM is capable of stimulating the kinase activity of mTORC1 in a calcium-dependent manner in vitro. These results reveal that mTOR is a new type of CaM-dependent kinase, and TRPML1, lysosomal calcium and CaM play essential regulatory roles in the mTORC1 signaling pathway.
I am not a checklist.

Graduating from medical school and completing residency training provided me with the skills to diagnose and treat patients, but it was one particular patient during my training who taught me how to be a doctor. She was in her early 70s with hypertension and a history of cardiac stents. She presented for a follow-up appointment in the internal medicine …
Bringing Produce to the People: Implementing a Social Marketing Food Access Intervention in Rural Food Deserts

This study describes and evaluates the process of implementing a social marketing food access intervention for food desert communities in rural California. A case study approach used mixed-methods data from nationwide market comparisons, environmental assessment, and community informants. Lessons learned demonstrate room for improvement in implementing such strategies and underscore the importance of involving community in decision making; the strategic importance of operational decisions relating to intervention design, site and product selection, and distribution models; and the need to reconsider the problem of access in rural areas.
The End of Adam and Eve: Theology & the Science of Human Origins, by Ron Cole-Turner

Adam and Eve have an end. Actually, they have two ends. According to Ron Cole-Turner, the new science of human origins puts an end to the Edenic couple’s historicity. We can no longer affirm that A...
Microwave surfing - the IMS 2003 quiz

Presents a microwave quiz. To answer the questions consult your symposium digests, the IMS 2003 Web site, and your knowledgeable colleagues.
Genetic evaluation of postweaning performance traits in Brahman and Brahman-influenced stockers grazing rye–ryegrass or bermudagrass pastures

ABSTRACT Growth of young cattle on forages and pastures has a major effect on the profitability of the stocker cattle industry. The objectives of this study were to estimate heritability of performance traits and additive genetic correlations of pairs of traits in Brahman and Brahman-influenced (0.25 or 0.5 Brahman) stocker cattle on rye (Secale cereale) + ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) (RRG; n = 2,031) or bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] (BER; n = 1,322). Data from 1986 to 2014 at Overton, Texas, for BW, ADG, and BCS were analyzed for each stocking season. Main effects included stocking rate (3 levels), proportion of Brahman inheritance (3 levels on RRG: 0.25, 0.5, 1; 2 levels on BER: 0.25 and 1), supplementation status, and contemporary groups. Stockers receiving supplement were heavier (P
Increased Circulating Neutrophils With Surface Receptor Activity for Immunoglobulin G in Polycythemia Vera and Myeloid Metaplasia

Reports of heterogeneity of IgG receptor activity of normal circulating neutrophils prompted measurements in myeloproliferative disease to determine if dysplasia of the hematic stem cell resulted in an abnormality of this membrane property. IgG receptors were assayed by rosette formation in suspension with human Rh-positive erythrocytes sensitized with high-titer Rh antiserum. IgG receptors were detected on 19 +/- 1.6% (mean +/- SEM) of neutrophils from 45 normal subjects. A significant increase in IgG-receptor-bearing neutrophils was found in polycythemia vera (PV) and myeloid metaplasia (MyM), with values of 70 +/- 3.6% and 69.7 +/- 4.3%, respectively. Normal values were observed in polycythemic states not due to myeloproliferative disease and in chronic myelocytic leukemia. Rosette-forming neutrophils were increased to 52.3 +/- 3.7% in infection and inflammatory disease, but this value was significantly lower than those in PV and MyM. Increased IgG receptors in PV and MyM may be related to the activated state of the neutrophil and may result from an intrinsic cellular abnormality of the proliferating clone or from altered bone marrow release. Quantitation of neutrophil IgG receptors may be of value in the differential diagnosis of PV and MyM and may offer insights into the derangement of hematopoiesis that underlies these myeloproliferative disorders.
Effects of a zoonotic pathogen, Borrelia burgdorferi, on the behavior of a key reservoir host.

Most emerging infectious diseases of humans are transmitted to humans from other animals. The transmission of these "zoonotic" pathogens is affected by the abundance and behavior of their wildlife hosts. However, the effects of infection with zoonotic pathogens on behavior of wildlife hosts, particularly those that might propagate through ecological communities, are not well understood. Borrelia burgdorferi is a bacterium that causes Lyme disease, the most common vector-borne disease in the USA and Europe. In its North American range, the pathogen is most frequently transmitted among hosts through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis). Using sham and true vaccines, we experimentally manipulated infection load with this zoonotic pathogen in its most competent wildlife reservoir host, the white-footed mouse, Peromyscus leucopus, and quantified the effects of infection on mouse foraging behavior, as well as levels of mouse infestation with ticks. Mice treated with the true vaccine had 20% fewer larval blacklegged ticks infesting them compared to mice treated with the sham vaccine, a significant difference. We observed a nonsignificant trend for mice treated with the true vaccine to be more likely to visit experimental foraging trays (20%-30% effect size) and to prey on gypsy moth pupae (5%-20% effect size) compared to mice treated with the sham vaccine. We observed no difference between mice on true- versus sham-vaccinated grids in risk-averse foraging. Infection with this zoonotic pathogen appears to elicit behavioral changes that might reduce self-grooming, but other behaviors were affected subtly or not at all. High titers of B. burgdorferi in mice could elicit a self-reinforcing feedback loop in which reduced grooming increases tick burdens and hence exposure to tick-borne pathogens.
Dissecting the pattern of proton release from partial process involved in ubihydroquinone oxidation in the Q-cycle.

Abstract A key feature of the modified Q-cycle of the cytochrome bc1 and related complexes is a bifurcation of QH2 oxidation involving electron transfer to two different acceptor chains, each coupled to proton release. We have studied the kinetics of proton release in chromatophore vesicles from Rhodobacter sphaeroides, using the pH-sensitive dye neutral red to follow pH changes inside on activation of the photosynthetic chain, focusing on the bifurcated reaction, in which 4H+are released on complete turnover of the Q-cycle (2H+/ubiquinol (QH2) oxidized). We identified different partial processes of the Qo-site reaction, isolated through use of specific inhibitors, and correlated proton release with electron transfer processes by spectrophotometric measurement of cytochromes or electrochromic response. In the presence of myxothiazol or azoxystrobin, the proton release observed reflected oxidation of the Rieske iron‑sulfur protein. In the absence of Qo-site inhibitors, the pH change measured represented the convolution of this proton release with release of protons on turnover of the Qo-site, involving formation of the ES-complex and oxidation of the semiquinone intermediate. Turnover also regenerated the reduced iron-sulfur protein, available for further oxidation on a second turnover. Proton release was well-matched with the rate limiting step on oxidation of QH2 on both turnovers. However, a minor lag in proton release found at pH 7 but not at pH 8 might suggest that a process linked to rapid proton release on oxidation of the intermediate semiquinone involves a group with a pK in that range.
Recent developments in the design of phase II clinical trials

Clinical trials of new medical treatments may be classified into three successive phases. Phase I trials typically are small pilot studies to determine the therapeutic dose of a drug, biological agent, radiation schedule, or a combination of these regimens (cf. [1]). In cancer therapeutics, the underlying idea is that a higher dose of the therapeutic agent kills more cancer cells but also is more likely to harm and possibly kill the patient. Consequently, toxicity is the usual criterion for determining a maximum tolerable dose (MTD), and most phase I cancer trials involve very small groups of patients, usually three to six patients per dose, with each successive group receiving a higher dose until it is likely that the MTD has been reached. A more refined approach that continually updates an estimate of the probability of toxicity has also been proposed by O’Quigley, Pepe and Fisher [2].
Mass spectrometric determinations of tryptophan and its metabolites.

The unique character of a chemical compound is determined by its molecular architecture. That architecture is a sum not only of all of the atoms in the compound and their masses, but of their particular relationship in space, i.e., the molecular bonds, sub-structural components, and their stereochemistry. Consequently, a physical tool which can measure both the summed masses of the elements in a compound and reflect the subtleties of their arrangement is very useful in both quantitative and qualitative investigations in biochemistry.
Relationship Between Brain Arterial Pathology and Neurocognitive Performance Among Individuals With Human Immunodeficiency Virus.

Background Human immunodeficiency virus-positive (HIV+) individuals have higher rates of cognitive impairment and cerebrovascular disease compared with uninfected populations. We hypothesize that cerebrovascular disease, specifically brain large artery disease, may play a role in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). Methods Participants (N = 94) in the Manhattan HIV Brain Bank study were followed on average 32 ± 33 months with repeated neuropsychological examinations until death. We used five cognitive domains (motor, processing speed, working memory, verbal fluency, and executive functioning) to assess ante mortem performance. We quantified the diameter of the lumen and arterial wall thickness obtained during autopsy. The diagnoses of HAND were attributed using the American Academy of Neurology nosology. We used generalized linear mixed model to account for repeated measures, follow-up time, and codependence between arteries. Models were adjusted for demographics, viral loads, CD4 counts, history of opportunistic infections, and vascular risks. Results We included 94 HIV+ individuals (mean age 56 ± 8.3, 68% men, 54% African American). In adjusted models, there was an association between arterial wall thickness and global cognitive score (B = -0.176, P value = .03), processing speed (B = -0.175, P = .05), and verbal fluency (B = -0.253, P = .02). Participants with incident or worsening HAND had thicker brain arterial walls (B = 0.523 ± 0.234, P = .03) and smaller arterial lumen (B = -0.633 ± 0.252, P = .01). Conclusions We report here a novel association between brain arterial wall thickening and poorer ante mortem cognitive performance and diagnosis of incident or worsening HAND at death. Strategies to preserve the arterial lumen or to prevent wall thickening may impact HAND.
Leader-Following Sample data Formation Control ofNonholonomic Robots with Switching Network Topologies

In this paper the problem of sample data cooperative output regulation for the leader-following formation (LFF) problem of a homogenous multi agent system is investigated. For sample data LFF problem a distributed design approach is proposed using luenberger observer, distributed observer and a zeroorder hold circuit. The designed approach enables the robots to track a discrete reference signal generated by the leader and to achieve and maintain the desired formation for the provided initial conditions. A driving force is provided by the exogenous system which serve as a leader for the robot formation. In view of time varying interaction between robots, one case of fixed network topology and two cases of switching network topologies are considered to exhibit the multirobot network relationship. The theoretical results are verified through numerical simulations of four nonholonomic multirobot network. The simulation highlights that the robots are maintaining the desired formation and are also tracking the trajectory of the leader robot under fixed and switching topologies of the multinetwork system.
The Moral Imperative of Home Health Care for Children: Beyond the Financial Case

* Abbreviations: CMC — : children with medical complexity HCN — : home care nursing Children with medical complexity (CMC) are defined as those children with medical fragility, technology dependence, functional impairment, and intensive care needs that are not easily met by existing care models.1 Common underlying syndromes include congenital or acquired neurologic diseases with manifestations over several organ systems, often resulting in the need for life support devices, such as tracheostomies, home ventilation, enteral feeding tubes, or home intravenous therapies. The services that allow for these children to be cared for at home have been the standard of care since the creation of the "Katie Beckett" waiver in 1986.2 CMC typically acquire the need for home care services during acute hospitalization, and arranging home care services is a vital part of discharge planning. In their article “Home Health Care Availability and Discharge Delays in Children With Medical Complexity,” Maynard et al3 report the extent to which discharges of CMC were delayed primarily because of the unavailability of home care nursing (HCN). Among 185 CMC discharged from 4 children’s hospitals in Minnesota, discharge … Address correspondence to Garey Noritz, MD, Division of Complex Care, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, 700 Children’s Dr, Columbus, OH 43205. E-mail: garey.noritz{at}nationwidechildrens.org
Maternal Depression and Stress in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Associations With Mother-Child Interactions at Age 5 Years

Objective Previous studies suggest that maternal postpartum mental health issues may have an impact on parenting and child development in preterm infants, but have often not measured symptomatology in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or followed families through early childhood. This study examines how maternal depressive symptoms and stress in the NICU are related to parenting behaviors at age 5 years, in mothers of children born very preterm (at ≤30 weeks’ gestation). Method This longitudinal study followed a diverse sample of 74 very preterm children and their mothers. Maternal depression and stress were assessed in the NICU. At age 5, mother−child dyads were observed and coded for maternal intrusiveness, negativity, sensitivity, and positivity. Other covariates, including maternal and child intelligence, maternal education, income-to-needs ratio, maternal depression at age 5 years, and child sex were included in multivariate analyses. Results The interaction between maternal NICU stress and NICU depression for intrusiveness and negativity indicates that greater NICU depression was associated with more intrusiveness under medium or high levels of NICU stress, and more negativity under high levels of NICU stress. Furthermore, greater NICU depression was associated with less sensitivity, over and above other covariates. Conclusion Findings suggest that early maternal peripartum depression and stress in the NICU can have lasting impacts on multiple parenting behaviors, highlighting the need for screening and targeted interventions in the NICU.
A Fluorogenic AggTag Method Based on Halo- and SNAP-Tags to Simultaneously Detect Aggregation of Two Proteins in Live Cells

Protein aggregation involves the assembly of partially misfolded proteins into oligomeric and higher-order structures that have been associated with several neurodegenerative diseases. However, numerous questions relating to protein aggregation remain unanswered due to the lack of available tools for visualization of these species in living cells. We recently developed a fluorogenic method named aggregation tag (AggTag), and presented the AggTag probe P1, based on a Halo-tag ligand, to report on the aggregation of a protein of interest (POI) in live cells. However, the Halo-tag-based AggTag method only detects the aggregation of one specific POI at a time. In this study, we have expanded the AggTag method by using SNAP-tag technology to enable fluorogenic and biorthogonal detection of the aggregation of two different POIs simultaneously in live cells. A new AggTag probe-P2, based on a SNAP-tag ligand bearing a green solvatochromic fluorophore-was synthesized for this purpose. Using confocal imaging and chemical crosslinking experiments, we confirmed that P2 can also report both on soluble oligomers and on insoluble aggregates of a POI fused with SNAP-tag in live cells. Ultimately, we showed that the orthogonal fluorescence of P1 and P2 allows for simultaneous visualization of two different pathogenic protein aggregates in the same cell.
Artificial Intelligence in Cardiothoracic Radiology

OBJECTIVE. The goal of this article is to examine some of the current cardiothoracic radiology applications of artificial intelligence in general and deep learning in particular. CONCLUSION. Artifi...
Peano Arithmetic, Incompleteness

This chapter introduces Peano Arithmetic and discusses two respects in which it is incomplete.
Non-Invasive Wi-Fi Sensors For Smart Healthcare

The exploration of smart systems and their capability to record health data is growing rapidly today. Health data can be sent directly to medical professionals, and alerts can be sent to users at their convenience on mobile devices or other applications. The utilization of Wi-Fi sensors in smart systems can be a major shift in how data is collected and distributed as well as in the way patients utilize this to be independent and aware of their health. Non-invasive technology has many benefits that range from no scars or wounds, reduction of pain, and a faster recovery time for patients. In this paper, we reviewed non-invasive technologies, the type of health status they can identify, and barriers of adopting smart health solutions.