cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modeling DNA Motion Under Electrostatic Repulsion Within a Living Cell

We are developing a new technique, called nanoinjection, to insert foreign DNA into a living cell. Such DNA transfection is commonly used to create transgenic organisms vital to the study of genetics, immunology, and many other biological sciences. In nanoinjection, DNA, which has a net negative charge, is electrostatically attracted to a micromachined lance. The lance then pierces the cell membranes, and the voltage on the lance is reversed, repelling the DNA into the cell. This paper presents a mathematical model to predict the motion (trajectory) of DNA particles within a cell in the presence of the electric field developed by the lance and the substrate. The model is used to predict the scattering of DNA through the cell due to electrostatic repulsion. We are currently preparing experiments which will be used to validate the model.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Engaging Stakeholders To Define Feasible and Desirable Agricultural Conservation in Western Lake Erie Watersheds

Widespread adoption of agricultural conservation measures in Lake Erie’s Maumee River watershed may be required to reduce phosphorus loading that drives harmful algal blooms and hypoxia. We engaged agricultural and conservation stakeholders through a survey and workshops to determine which conservation practices to evaluate. We investigated feasible and desirable conservation practices using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool calibrated for streamflow, sediment, and nutrient loading near the Maumee River outlet. We found subsurface placement of phosphorus applications to be the individual practice most influential on March–July dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) loading from row croplands. Perennial cover crops and vegetated filter strips were most effective for reducing seasonal total phosphorus (TP) loading. We found that practices effective for reducing TP and DRP load were not always mutually beneficial, culminating in trade-offs among multiple Lake Erie phosphorus management goals. Adoption of pract...
The Prussian Thermopylae

All remained quiet in the French camp on the “lovely May morning” of the 20th, giving the appearance that Napoleon would not attempt to cross the Spree on this day. From one of Bautzen's church steeples, Prussian staff officers noted at 9:15 the march of two imperial infantry divisions northeast from the plateau of Welka as well as the massing of cavalry on the French left. Napoleon himself could be seen reconnoitering the Bautzen position. Along with the reports from the previous day, this news prompted Wittgenstein to continue the measures already started by the corps commanders that corresponded to his instructions for countering a movement through Guttau (Gottamelde) by the French left wing to envelop the Allied right. Accordingly, Barclay would extend the right wing north, leaving Kleist's corps on the hills at Burk to cover his movement; the army then would follow Barclay. Earlier that morning, Barclay posted his main body between Klix and Brosa; Yorck's corps remained in reserve on the hill of Guttau; and Blucher pushed forward an entire brigade to the Kreckwitz heights (see Map 6). Around noon, he received final instructions from Wittgenstein to move II Corps from Baschutz north to a position between Kreckwitz and Brosa. Grand Duke Constantine's two cuirassier divisions would combine with Blucher's Reserve Cavalry to extend the right wing to Brosa and serve as an intermediate line between Blucher and Barclay. Unsure of the number of villages on the right bank of the Spree between Kreckwitz and Brosa, Wittgenstein directed Blucher to occupy as many as he found. Gorchakov's infantry would form the second line by marching north and assuming the position vacated by II Corps at Baschutz. Kleist would remain at Burk; the infantry of the Russian Guard and Reserve would likewise maintain their positions south of the Bautzen–Weisenberg road. These measures did not achieve fruition. Wittgenstein recalled the cuirassiers to cover the batteries south of Litten. Next, Barclay reported that he could not maintain the Klix–Brosa line and so fell back to the Malschwitz–Gleina line. Under these circumstances Blucher posted Zieten's brigade between Kreckwitz and Doberschutz, concealing his other two brigades as well as Dolffs's Reserve Cavalry along the eastern foot of the Kreckwitz heights.
Colonic Saturated Fatty Acid Concentrations and Expression of COX-1, but not Diet, Predict Prostaglandin E2 in Normal Human Colon Tissue.

ABSTRACTProstaglandin E2 (PGE2) in the colon is a pro-inflammatory mediator that is associated with increased risk of colon cancer. In this study, expression of genes in the PGE2 pathway were quantified in colon biopsies from a trial of a Mediterranean versus a Healthy Eating diet in 113 individuals at high risk for colon cancer. Colon biopsies were obtained before and after 6 months of intervention. Quantitative, real-time PCR was used to measure mRNA expression of prostaglandin H synthases (PTGS1 and 2), prostaglandin E synthases (PTGES1 and 3), prostaglandin dehydrogenase (HPGD), and PGE2 receptors (PTGER2, PTGER4). The most highly expressed genes were HPGD and PTGS1. In multivariate linear regression models of baseline data, both colon saturated fatty acid concentrations and PTGS1 expression were significant, positive predictors of colon PGE2 concentrations after controlling for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use, gender, age, and smoking status. The effects of dietary intervention on gene expres...
Behavior of Clostridium botulinum in Vacuum-Packed Fresh Celery

Sliced fresh celery pieces were placed in barrier pouches (1 mm Nylon/2.5 mm polyethylene) and then inoculated with types A, B, and E Clostridium botulinum spores (105/454 g). Pouches were sealed after evacuating, flushing with nitrogen, or without alteration, and were then incubated at 7 or 21 C for up to 8 weeks. None of these inoculated samples yielded botulinum toxin. Fortification of vacuum-packaged celery with nutrient broth resulted in toxin production at 21 C after 8 weeks. All results indicated that fresh celery held anaerobically under simulated commercial refrigerated storage conditions will not support growth and toxin production by C. botulinum because of nutrient insufficiency or other inhibition factors.
Salinization triggers a trophic cascade in experimental freshwater communities with varying food-chain length

The application of road deicing salts in northern regions worldwide is changing the chemical environment of freshwater ecosystems. Chloride levels in many lakes, streams, and wetlands exceed the chronic and acute thresholds established by the United States and Canada for the protection of freshwater biota. Few studies have identified the impacts of deicing salts in stream and wetland communities and none have examined impacts in lake communities. We tested how relevant concentrations of road salt (15, 100, 250, 500, and 1000 mg Cl−/L) interacted with experimental communities containing two or three trophic levels (i.e., no fish vs. predatory fish). We hypothesized that road salt and fish would have a negative synergistic effect on zooplankton, which would then induce a trophic cascade. We tested this hypothesis in outdoor mesocosms containing filamentous algae, periphyton, phytoplankton, zooplankton, several macroinvertebrate species, and fish. We found that the presence of fish and high salt had a negative synergistic effect on the zooplankton community, which in turn caused an increase in phytoplankton. Contributing to the magnitude of this trophic cascade was a direct positive effect of high salinity on phytoplankton abundance. Cascading effects were limited with respect to impacts on the benthic food web. Periphyton and snail grazers were unaffected by the salt-induced trophic cascade, but the biomass of filamentous algae decreased as a result of competition with phytoplankton for light or nutrients. We also found direct negative effects of high salinity on the biomass of filamentous algae and amphipods (Hyalella azteca) and the mortality of banded mystery snails (Viviparus georgianus) and fingernail clams (Sphaerium simile). Clam mortality was dependent on the presence of fish, suggesting a non-consumptive interactive effect with salt. Our results indicate that globally increasing concentrations of road salt can alter community structure via both direct and indirect effects.
Primary Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma of the Breast Occurring in Patients with Silicone Breast Implants.

Abstract Primary breast lymphoma (PBL) accounts for up to 1% of all primary breast tumors, and 2.2% of all extranodal lymphomas. The vast majority of PBL are of B-cell origin, most commonly of the diffuse large cell histology. Fewer than 20 cases of T-cell PBL have been reported. We report 6 cases of T-lineage PBL occuring in patients who had previously received silicone breast implants for purposes of breast augmentation. None of the patients had a previous diagnosis of malignancy or unrelated prior breast surgery. In each case, the implants had been placed between 5 and 20 years previously. In each case, lymphoma was confined to breast by staging, and met previously defined criteria for PBL. In 5 cases, the lymphoma was identified as a solid mass involving the breast tissue. In one case, lymphoma cells were identified by flow cytometry in a fluid collection surrounding the implant. The implant was replaced, and the patient has subsequently treated with systemic chemotherapy despite negative PET scan. Thus far, reaccumulation of fluid has not occurred several months following replacement of the implant. In patients for whom follow-up information is available, two recurred following initial therapy and received autologous stem cell transplantation in second complete remission, and remain disease free at 2 years post-transplantation. Since 1995, six cases of PBL associated with breast implants have been reported in the literature, all of which are of T-cell lineage. The majority are of anaplastic large cell type. None of these cases have been previously reported, and this is the largest collection of such reported from a single institution. While previous reports have discounted any link between breast implants and lymphoma, this appears to be a specific association of an unusual lymphoma subtype occuring after a significant time period. Given the increasing number of silicone implant procedures recorded each year in the U.S., this represents an environmental association ripe for further investigation. Establishment of a national database would be appropriate to monitor any potential trends in this entity. PBL Anaplastic Lymphoma, Immunohistochemistry Age at Diagnosis ALK-1 CD2 CD3 CD20 CD30 CD43 CD45 32 − + − + + 41 + + + + 40 − + − − + − 54 − − − − + + − 49 + − + + + 62 − − − + − + 31 + − − − + − +
Desire in Young Men’s Courtship Stories

The sociological literature on romantic love has largely sought to explain its presence, by reference to historical causes, social structure, socio-economic functions or charismatic appeal. This chapter reverses this question by asking how, in the absence of romance discourse, young Murik men talk about courtship. Trends in marriage in the Pacific are discussed. An overview of the role of desire in the organization of Murik marriage is presented. The chapter employs the Bakhtinian concept of chronotope, which has to do with the construction of time and space in narrative. A Homeric chronotope of desire, in which desire is not overtly expressed, is then analyzed in several Murik courtship narratives. Courtship discourse, it is concluded, sheds light on an important dimension of masculine dialogue with Murik culture and modernity in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
Tough and tunable adhesion of hydrogels: experiments and models

As polymer networks infiltrated with water, hydrogels are major constituents of animal and plant bodies and have diverse engineering applications. While natural hydrogels can robustly adhere to other biological materials, such as bonding of tendons and cartilage on bones and adhesive plaques of mussels, it is challenging to achieve such tough adhesions between synthetic hydrogels and engineering materials. Recent experiments show that chemically anchoring long-chain polymer networks of tough synthetic hydrogels on solid surfaces create adhesions tougher than their natural counterparts, but the underlying mechanism has not been well understood. It is also challenging to tune systematically the adhesion of hydrogels on solids. Here, we provide a quantitative understanding of the mechanism for tough adhesions of hydrogels on solid materials via a combination of experiments, theory, and numerical simulations. Using a coupled cohesive-zone and Mullins-effect model validated by experiments, we reveal the interplays of intrinsic work of adhesion, interfacial strength, and energy dissipation in bulk hydrogels in order to achieve tough adhesions. We further show that hydrogel adhesion can be systematically tuned by tailoring the hydrogel geometry and silanization time of solid substrates, corresponding to the control of energy dissipation zone and intrinsic work of adhesion, respectively. The current work further provides a theoretical foundation for rational design of future biocompatible and underwater adhesives.
Right ventricular apical versus non-apical implantable cardioverter defibrillator lead: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract Introduction We aimed to study the effect of right ventricular implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) lead positioning on clinical outcomes in patients undergoing ICD placement. Methods A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials to identify clinical trials comparing outcomes in patients with ICD leads in apical and non-apical positions. The primary outcome of our study was death at 1-year follow-up. Secondary outcomes studied were “death at 3 years”, “total number of shocks”, “appropriate shocks”, “inappropriate shocks” and “cut-to-suture time”. Results We analyzed a total of 3731 patients (2852 in apical and 879 in non-apical ICD groups) enrolled in 4 clinical trials. No significant difference was observed between the apical and non-apical ICD groups in all-cause mortality at 1 year (OR 0.88; 95% CI 0.51–1.49, p = 0.63; I2 = 5.32%). Similarly, no differences were seen between the two groups in death at 3 years (OR = 0.76; 95% CI 0.56–1.04, p = 0.08; I2 = 0%), total number of shocks (OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.81–1.22, p = 0.95; I2 = 0%), appropriate shocks (OR 1.00; 95% CI 0.79–1.27, p = 0.99; I2 = 0%), inappropriate shocks (OR 0.98; 95% CI 0.70–1.37, p = 0.91; I2 = 0%) and cut-to-suture time (Standard mean difference = −0.03; 95% CI −0.20 to 0.14, p = 0.73; I2 = 0%). No publication bias was seen. Conclusion Non-apical RV ICD lead implantation is non-inferior to traditional RV apical position with no significant differences in mortality, total number of shocks, appropriate shocks, inappropriate shocks and procedural time.
New approach to the retrieval of AOD and its uncertainty from MISR observations over dark water

Abstract. A new method for retrieving aerosol optical depth (AOD) and its uncertainty from Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) observations over dark water is outlined. MISR's aerosol retrieval algorithm calculates cost functions between observed and pre-simulated radiances for a range of AODs (from 0.0 to 3.0) and a prescribed set of aerosol mixtures. The previous version 22 (V22) operational algorithm considered only the AOD that minimized the cost function for each aerosol mixture and then used a combination of these values to compute the final, “best estimate” AOD and associated uncertainty. The new approach considers the entire range of cost functions associated with each aerosol mixture. The uncertainty of the reported AOD depends on a combination of (a) the absolute values of the cost functions for each aerosol mixture, (b) the widths of the cost function distributions as a function of AOD, and (c) the spread of the cost function distributions among the ensemble of mixtures. A key benefit of the new approach is that, unlike the V22 algorithm, it does not rely on empirical thresholds imposed on the cost function to determine the success or failure of a particular mixture. Furthermore, a new aerosol retrieval confidence index (ARCI) is established that can be used to screen high-AOD retrieval blunders caused by cloud contamination or other factors. Requiring ARCI ≥0.15 as a condition for retrieval success is supported through statistical analysis and outperforms the thresholds used in the V22 algorithm. The described changes to the MISR dark water algorithm will become operational in the new MISR aerosol product (V23), planned for release in 2017.
Strategies to Assist Drivers in Remaining Attentive While Under Partially Automated Driving: Verification of Human–Machine Interface Concepts

Visual inattention is a major concern with partially automated driving systems that assume vehicle steering functions. The safety concept for these systems capable of maintaining vehicle lane position and headway depends on an attentive driver who detects and appropriately responds to objects and events that are beyond the limitations of the sensors. Embedded within a proposed system are features designed to help drivers perform these functions and remain attentive to the driving environment. This study served to validate human–machine interface (HMI) strategies and concepts that can be applied to production-intent partially automated system HMI to achieve intended safety goals in assisting drivers to maintain attention to driving. Previous validation efforts, conducted as part of a NHTSA study, proved insufficient for verification of these driver performance functions since they relied on an incomplete version of alternative HMI concepts. The current study, with a sample of 25 licensed drivers, used appr...
An Offensive and Defensive Exposition of Wearable Computing

Wearable computing is rapidly getting deployed in many—commercial, medical, and personal—domains of day-to-day life. Wearable devices appear in various forms, shapes, and sizes and facilitate a wide variety of applications in many domains of life. However, wearables raise unique security and privacy concerns. Wearables also hold the promise to help enhance the existing security, privacy, and safety paradigms in unique ways while preserving the system’s usability. The contribution of this research literature survey is threefold. First, as a background, we identify a wide range of existing as well as upcoming wearable devices and investigate their broad applications. Second, we provide an exposition of the security and privacy of wearable computing, studying dual aspects, that is, both attacks and defenses. Third, we provide a comprehensive study of the potential security, privacy, and safety enhancements to existing systems based on the emergence of wearable technology. Although several research works have emerged exploring different offensive and defensive uses of wearables, there is a lack of a broad and precise literature review systematizing all those security and privacy aspects and the underlying threat models. This research survey also analyzes current and emerging research trends and provides directions for future research.
Neural circuits in silicon.

Studies of neurally inspired silicon circuits are showing how networks of neurons can select and multiply input signals. They may also provide alternative ways to build computers modelled on biology.
Two-Dimensional Systems and Z-Transforms

This chapter introduces 2-D difference equations and the Z transform including recursive filter stability theorems. It is a generalization of the 1-D Z-transform used in the analysis and synthesis of 1-D linear constant coefficient difference equation-based systems. In two and higher dimensions, the corresponding linear systems are partial difference equations. The analogous continuous parameter systems are partial differential equations. Furthermore, this chapter discusses LSI stability in terms of its Z-transform system function and presents several stability conditions in terms of the zero-root locations of the system function. The resulting 2-D filter stability tests are much more complicated, since the zeros and poles are functions, not points, in 2-D z space. The structure and a stability constraint are incorporated into the formulation while studying filter design. This chapter also introduces filters with the more general nonsymmetric half-plane (NSHP) support and briefly investigates their stability behavior in terms of Z-transforms.
Active and reactive power control of single phase inverter with seamless transfer between grid-connected and islanded mode

In this paper, a seamless transfer control strategy or algorithm for single phase grid-tied inverter is proposed using synchronous frame PLL. The inverter is controlled using the Direct-Quadrature synchronous reference frame transformation for active and reactive power control in the grid connected mode and output voltage control in the islanded mode of operation. The breaker status is responsible for the switching between the two control modes and the breaker status is decided by the proposed algorithm. The seamless transfer algorithm observes the PCC voltage on the grid side and the frequency of the grid and decides an action based on the whether the two parameters are within a particular limit. The SF-PLL is responsible for the synchronization process, it takes the reference from the grid or from a constant d-q component of the voltage depending on the output setting of the algorithm. The output of the SF-PLL will determine the frequency and phase angle of the inverter. Simulations verify the operation of this algorithm and the control modes used on the single phase inverter.
Discovering hidden knowledge through auditing clinical diagnostic knowledge bases.

Abstract Objective Evaluate potential for data mining auditing techniques to identify hidden concepts in diagnostic knowledge bases (KB). Improving completeness enhances KB applications such as differential diagnosis and patient case simulation. Materials and methods Authors used unsupervised (Pearson’s correlation – PC, Kendall’s correlation – KC, and a heuristic algorithm – HA) methods to identify existing and discover new finding-finding interrelationships (“properties”) in the INTERNIST-1/QMR KB. Authors estimated KB maintenance efficiency gains (effort reduction) of the approaches. Results The methods discovered new properties at 95% CI rates of [0.1%, 5.4%] (PC), [2.8%, 12.5%] (KC), and [5.6%, 18.8%] (HA). Estimated manual effort reduction for HA-assisted determination of new properties was approximately 50-fold. Conclusion Data mining can provide an efficient supplement to ensuring the completeness of finding-finding interdependencies in diagnostic knowledge bases. Authors’ findings should be applicable to other diagnostic systems that record finding frequencies within diseases (e.g., DXplain, ISABEL).
Into the Future Boldly: The Imperative for Cultural Synergy

The various components that comprise the information domain possess the potential synergistic forces to yield a more powerful institutional culture of and for information. This synergistic outcome I wish to call the Virtual Information Scape. One synergistic effect that could be provided by a virtual information scape would be the ability to cluster cultural indicators across, or through, or among information objects regardless of institution of residence, language, or any other partial imposed boundary barrier. Another synergy is a cross- and meta-institutional approach to information-sharing. The information-sharing in which we engage is our cultural capital. A third synergy must come from re-envisioning the information domain such that we curate domains of research across institutional boundaries. A fourth synergy emerges from the development of core ethical standards for information. We live on the cusp of a virtual world, interactivity is the essential link, virtual space is social space.
Phosphorus removal by dispersed air oxidation

Researchers at The University of Alabama have recently developed a two-step method for the treatment of phosphorus sludge. The process includes the bulk removal of phosphorus by physical separation techniques followed by the remediation of the residual P4 in the sludge using a novel, wet, air-oxidation technique known as “HSAD.” Tests made on electric-furnace, phosphorus sludge samples have demonstrated that an essentially complete and fast removal of the contained P4 can be achieved by the HSAD wet oxidation treatment. Further studies were made to determine the applicability of the two-step process to sludges of different origins, pretreatments, storage conditions and P4 contents. The present work, discusses the mechanisms and factors controlling the HSAD, wet, air-oxidation remediation approach.
H-reflex conditioning during locomotion in people with spinal cord injury

Key points In people or animals with incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI), changing a spinal reflex through an operant conditioning protocol can improve locomotion. All previous studies conditioned the reflex during steady-state maintenance of a specific posture. By contrast, the present study down-conditioned the reflex during the swing-phase of locomotion in people with hyperreflexia as a result of chronic incomplete SCI. The aim was to modify the functioning of the reflex in a specific phase of a dynamic movement. This novel swing-phase conditioning protocol decreased the reflex much faster and farther than did the steady-state protocol in people or animals with or without SCI, and it also improved locomotion. The reflex decrease persisted for at least 6 months after conditioning ended. The results suggest that conditioning reflex function in a specific phase of a dynamic movement offers a new approach to enhancing and/or accelerating recovery after SCI or in other disorders. Abstract In animals and people with incomplete spinal cord injury, appropriate operant conditioning of a spinal reflex can improve impaired locomotion. In all previous conditioning studies, the reflex was conditioned during steady-state maintenance of a stable posture; this steady-state protocol aimed to change the excitability of the targeted reflex pathway; reflex size gradually changed over 8-10 weeks. The present study introduces a new protocol, comprising a dynamic protocol that aims to change the functioning of the reflex pathway during a specific phase of a complex movement. Specifically, we down-conditioned the soleus H-reflex during the swing-phase of locomotion in people with hyperreflexia as a result of chronic incomplete SCI. The swing-phase H-reflex, which is absent or very small in neurologically normal individuals, is abnormally large in this patient population. The results were clear. With swing-phase down-conditioning, the H-reflex decreased much faster and farther than did the H-reflex in all previous animal or human studies with the steady-state protocol, and the decrease persisted for at least 6 months after conditioning ended. The H-reflex decrease was accompanied by improvements in walking speed and in the modulation of locomotor electromyograph activity in proximal and distal muscles of both legs. These results provide new insight into the factors controlling spinal reflex conditioning; they suggest that the conditioning protocols targeting reflex function in a specific movement phase provide a promising new opportunity to enhance functional recovery after SCI or in other disorders.
Breastfeeding, Cellular Immune Activation, and Myocardial Recovery in Peripartum Cardiomyopathy.

Highlights •The impact of breastfeeding on prolactin, cellular immune activation, and myocardial recovery was analyzed in 100 women with peripartum cardiomyopathy •Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography at presentation and at serial intervals over the first year postpartum •The levels of circulating prolactin were assessed by ELISA, and cellular immunophenotyping by flow cytometry, and compared between breastfeeding and nonbreastfeeding women •Prolactin levels were higher in breastfeeding women and correlated with significant increases in CD8+ T cells •Despite significantly higher prolactin levels and increased CD8+ cells, myocardial recovery was similar in breastfeeding and nonbreastfeeding women
Cooperative Target Tracking by Altering UAVs’ Linear and Angular Velocities

This paper addresses cooperative target tracking of a moving ground vehicle using a fleet of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This work extends our earlier results on two aspects. First, a different formation pattern, i.e., a uniform spacing formation, is incooperated into the cooperative target tracking task. Different from the balanced circular formation achieved earlier where all UAVs spread evenly over a circle, all UAVs can now spread evenly over a portion of a circle, instead of the full circle. The second extension is regarding how formations are achieved. In our past work, cooperative target tracking was obtained by altering each UAV’s yaw rate, while each UAV’s linear velocity was assumed to be constant. In the proposed new approach, tracking is still achieved by altering each UAV’s yaw rate. Formation, on the other hand, is obtained by adjusting each UAV’s linear velocity. Both the balanced circular formation and the uniform spacing formation can be obtained by either approach. Matlab simulations are presented to show the effectiveness of these two approaches in achieving both formations.
Urban freight and road safety in the era of e-commerce

Objective: E-commerce has increased freight volumes and shifted freight vehicles to local streets and arterials. These changes have caused increasing concern over traffic safety in urban areas, but...
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome Complicated by Gastric Mucosal Necrosis Following Congenital Scoliosis Surgery: A Case Report.

Case This is a report of severe superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome in an 11-year-old girl with congenital scoliosis following posterior spinal fusion and segmental spinal instrumentation. This was complicated by gastric mucosal necrosis but resolved satisfactory with prolonged nasogastric suction, intravenous fluids, and total parental nutrition. Conclusions All pediatric spine surgeons should be aware of SMA syndrome following spine surgery. This case demonstrates that although rare, significant complications such as gastric mucosal necrosis can occur. When present, it can be treated successfully with prolonged conservative management. Comanagement with pediatric gastroenterology and pediatric general surgery is recommended.
How to Participate in Professional Societies

Many opportunities for career advancement exist for physicians; however, in our fast-paced health-care environment, time is at a premium. Efficiency and strategic use of time matter. Often, the crucial role of professional relationships takes a back seat to the demands of day-to-day tasks. Engagement with professional societies offers a trusted pathway for career advancement and enrichment if utilized to their greatest capacity. Visibility, maximizing networks, professional branding, saying yes, and being a doer are essential components of investing in professional societies. These components require intentional interactions with professional society activities, leaders, and members. Enlisting the help of mentors and sponsors can help early career physicians to utilize strategies to assure the greatest return on investment in professional societies.
Characterization of Active Power Flow at Harmonics for AC and DC Railway Vehicles

Highly dynamic and distorting loads like electrified trains have complex power flow schemes, with active power not exclusively assigned to the fundamental (either dc or ac). The estimate of energy consumption shall thus cover the most relevant power spectral terms, in order to adequately track and quantify the active power flow. This work investigates the dynamic behaviour of two distortion power indexes calculated with the pantograph quantities, voltage and current, using experimental recordings performed over some European railway networks (3 kV dc, 2x25 kV 50 Hz and 15 kV 16.7 Hz). The results show the relevance of a reduced set of components and the strong correlation with train operating conditions. The relevance is significant for ac systems, and in particular 16.7 Hz systems.
The Solvency of Federal Welfare Entitlement Programs: Social Security and Medicare

When President Clinton signed the Welfare Reform Bill in 1996, he described it as the “end of welfare as we know it.” It was a premature declaration of victory, for welfare is alive and well in the American economy. It is growing at a rate that will soon ignite public debate over the cost of federal entitlement programs. But the major beneficiaries are not the poor. They are the cohort of the U.S. population over the age of 62 that will swell the number of welfare recipients in 2008 when the first Baby Boomers become eligible to collect Social Security. The burden will jump again in 2011 when they become eligible for Medicare. The 50 million Americans who will be 62 years or older in 2010 will grow in number to 83 million by 2030 and to 100 million by 2050. Their relative importance in the population will rise from 16% in 2010 to 24% in 2050. Extended life expectancy assures that the bulge will last for many decades and will exacerbate the drain on the financial reserves of the Social Security and Medicare trust funds.
Introducing the perceived role in emotional development scale: Using indirect, reflective questioning with parental caregivers

The perceived role of caregivers in emotional development and behavior is not well understood. To encourage candid responses and reflective practice, I devised scenarios with the same phrasing (“Ho...
CHAPTER 4 – Tasking

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on tasking. A specific example of a program that gains a second site of activity is illustrated in the chapter. Lines 3, 5, 10, 14, and 16 reflect most of the new syntactical units required to achieve a simple, synchronized, tasking objective. At line 3, a variable, ev1, of type event is declared for use as the basis for synchronization. A matching formal parameter called done is declared in line 5 for the procedure sumit2. To request that sumit2 be executed as a separate but related task, a new syntactical construction is needed. Burroughs Algol, for instance, employs the key word process to distinguish a task call (line 14) from an ordinary procedure call (line 15). Variables of type event are structured. One field in this structure is a binary switch called the “happened” bit, which is set to not happened initially and later set to happened when the cause intrinsic is executed.
Intracranial Tumor Control After Immune-Related Adverse Events and Discontinuation of Immunotherapy for Melanoma.

Objective Immunotherapy for patients with melanoma with brain metastasis has significantly improved outcomes; however, it has also been characterized by potentially dangerous immune-related adverse events (IRAEs). Several reports have suggested that these reactions can precede improved treatment responses. For intracranial disease control, we sought to identify if such an association exists. Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients with melanoma who underwent immunotherapy treatment after diagnosis of brain metastasis. The study cohort was then stratified into 2 groups based on their history of developing an IRAE that prompted discontinuation of that regimen. The primary outcome variable included intracranial progression-free survival (PFS). Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard analyses were used to evaluate survival and predictors of outcomes. Results Fifty-two patients met the inclusion criteria, 17 of whom experienced severe IRAEs that led to discontinuation of immunotherapy. Median intracranial PFS was 19.9 versus 10.5 months (P = 0.053) in patients who did and did not experience severe IRAEs prompting discontinuation, respectively. No additional outcome benefits were identified for systemic PFS or overall survival (mean, 33.1 months and 27.6 months, respectively). Multivariable analysis identified BRAF mutation status as a negative prognosticator of brain progression (P = 0.013; hazard ratio, 3.90). Initial treatment with BRAF inhibitor was also a negative predictor of all-cause mortality (P = 0.015; hazard ratio, 10.73). Conclusions Immune-related adverse events may signify an underlying immunogenic response that has intracranial disease control benefits. Despite their associated side effects, immunotherapies continue to show promising outcomes as a first-line agent for melanoma with brain metastasis.
Design and microfabrication strategies for thin-film, flexible optical neural implant *

Advanced polymer science and design technologies are constantly evolving to meet ever-growing expectations for flexible optical MEMS. In this work, we present design and microfabrication considerations for designed flexible Polymeric Opto-Electro-Mechanical Systems (POEMS). The presented methods integrate waveguide fabrication and laser diode (LD) chip assembly with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory’s (LLNL’s) flexible thin-film technology to enable LLNL’s first neural optoelectrode that can deliver guided light for neural activation. We support our findings with electrical and optical bench verification tests, present thermal simulation models to analyze heat dissipation of laser light sources on polymer substrates and discuss potential modifications for next generation prototypes. This fully integrated approach will allow spatial precision, scalability and more particularly, longer lifetime, needed to enable chronic studies of brain activities.
What Leads to Better Visitor Outcomes in Live Interpretation

We conducted a study to empirically isolate the factors that are most consistently linked with positive outcomes for the attendees of live interpretive programs. We examined the relationships betwe...
Delivery and Impact of a Motivational Intervention for Smoking Cessation: A PROS Study.

OBJECTIVES: We tested a Public Health Service 5As-based clinician-delivered smoking cessation counseling intervention with adolescent smokers in pediatric primary care practice. METHODS: We enrolled clinicians from 120 practices and recruited youth (age ≥14) from the American Academy of Pediatrics Pediatric Research in Office Settings practice-based research network. Practices were randomly assigned to training in smoking cessation (intervention) or social media counseling (attentional control). Youth recruited during clinical visits completed confidential screening forms. All self-reported smokers and a random sample of nonsmokers were offered enrollment and interviewed by phone at 4 to 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months after visits. Measures included adolescents' report of clinicians' delivery of screening and counseling, current tobacco use, and cessation behaviors and intentions. Analysis assessed receipt of screening and counseling, predictors of receiving 5As counseling, and effects of interventions on smoking behaviors and cessation at 6 and 12 months. RESULTS: Clinicians trained in the 5As intervention delivered more screening (s = 1.0605, P < .0001) and counseling (s = 0.4354, P < .0001). In both arms, clinicians more often screened smokers than nonsmokers. At 6 months, study arm was not significantly associated with successful cessation; however, smokers in the 5As group were more likely to have quit at 12 months. Addicted smokers more often were counseled, regardless of study arm, but were less likely to successfully quit smoking. CONCLUSIONS: Adolescent smokers whose clinicians were trained in 5As were more likely to receive smoking screening and counseling than controls, but the ability of this intervention to help adolescents quit smoking was limited.
Sardono Kusumo: Vibratory Heat, Juxtapositional Disruptions, and Danced Rupture

This chapter examines how the oeuvre of Indonesian contemporary choreographer, Sardono Kusumo, generates heat both through the principle of vibration, that is the source of movement for him, and his choreographic strategy of “juxtapositional disruptions,” where the adjacent placement of different aesthetic practices ruptures the possibility of neat narratives of cultural flow. It also looks at specific moments in his choreographic process and performance to identify recurrent thematic concerns in his work: human-ecological relationships, different inspirations from practices that emerge from the Indonesian archipelago, rhizomatic choreographic structures, and investigations of “Tradition” that often become controversial.
Predictive policing in hospitality and tourism venues — The case of Orlando

Abstract The association between crime and tourism has been studied for more than 40 years. Most of the studies, however, have focused on differentiating crimes against tourists from crimes against locals despite the high correlation between the two. To date, there are only a few studies that have pointed out to the role of location and time in tourism-crime analysis despite the existence of theoretical frameworks such as routine activity, hot spot, and rational choice that validate the role of temporospatial analysis in tourism/hospitality crimes. Furthermore, prior literature has only used the predictive policing model in relation to police-criminal activities. This study, however, claims that by using the principles of the predictive policing model in conjunction with the community policing model, benefit can be derived from active public participation in preventing/disrupting crimes that have temporospatial patterns. In order to address the gap and achieve the purpose of the study, 160,947 structured observations of Orlando police public records from 2009 to 2015, types and locations of crimes, decision tree models of classification and regression (CART or CRT), and chi-square automatic interaction detection (CHAID) were employed. The results confirm that crimes at recreation/tourism and hospitality venues have a clear temporospatial pattern and, as such, they could potentially be intervened in and reduced with active participation of the public.
Jan Wolff and Israel L. Chaikoff

In 1948, Drs. Jan Wolff and Israel L. Chaikoff published their landmark study on the Wolff–Chaikoff effect at University of California (UC) at Berkeley. Their discovery laid the foundation for further research into thyroid physiology and iodine metabolism. It also carried important implications regarding the medical uses of iodine, including its role in nuclear accident prophylaxis. This chapter describes the discovery of the Wolff–Chaikoff effect, its implications, and the lives of Drs. Wolff and Chaikoff.
Development and characterization of a human orthotopic neuroblastoma xenograft.

Abstract Neuroblastoma is a pediatric cancer of the developing sympathoadrenal lineage. The tumors are known to develop from the adrenal gland or paraspinal ganglia and have molecular and cellular features of sympathetic neurons such as dense core vesicles and catecholamine production. Here we present the detailed molecular, cellular, genetic and epigenetic characterization of an orthotopic xenograft derived from a high-risk stage 4 neuroblastoma patient. Overall, the xenografted tumor retained the high risk features of the primary tumor and showed aggressive growth and metastasis in the mouse. Also, the genome was preserved with no additional copy number variations, structural variations or aneuploidy. There were 13 missense mutations identified in the xenograft that were not present in the patient׳s primary tumor and there were no new nonsense mutations. None of the missense mutations acquired in the xenograft were in known cancer genes. We also demonstrate the feasibility of using the orthotopic neuroblastoma xenograft to test standard of care chemotherapy and molecular targeted therapeutics. Finally, we optimized a new approach to produce primary cultures of the neuroblastoma xenografts for high-throughput drug screening which can be used to test new combinations of therapeutic agents for neuroblastoma.
What's eating the free lunch?

Over 20 years ago it was asserted that there should be an organism that can exploit the ‘anammox’ reaction which involves the anaerobic oxidation of ammonium by nitrite. The search has now succeeded, and the organism turns out to be relative of bacterial group called the planctomycetes. The finding is of practical as well as scientific interest, in that the bacterium might be used to tackle the environmental problem of high nitrogen content in waste water.
Gestational weight gain and predicted changes in offspring anthropometrics between early infancy and 3 years.

Objective—To determine how gestational weight gain (GWG), categorized using the 2009 Institute of Medicine recommendations, relates to changes in offspring weight-for-age (WAZ), length-for-age (LAZ), and weight-for-length z-scores (WLZ) between early infancy and 3 years. Methods—Women with singleton infants were recruited from the third cohort of the Pregnancy, Infection, and Nutrition Study (2001-2005). Term infants with at least one weight or length measurement during the study period were included (n=476). Multivariable linear mixed effects regression models estimated longitudinal changes in WAZ, LAZ, and WLZ associated with GWG. Results—In early infancy, compared to infants of women with adequate weight gain, those of women with excessive weight gains had higher WAZ, LAZ, and WLZ. Excessive GWG≥200% of the recommended amount was associated with faster rates of change in WAZ and LAZ and noticeably higher predicted mean WAZ and WLZ that persisted across the study period. Conclusions—GWG represents a modifiable behavioral factor that is associated with offspring anthropometric outcomes. More longitudinal studies that utilize maternal and pediatric body composition measures are necessary to understand the nature of this association.
Third-Country Effects on the Market Shares of U.S. Wheat in Asian Countries

An import demand model, augmented with third-country effect variables, is developed to examine the effects of strong U.S. dollar, volatility of the U.S. dollar, and competition among the exporting countries on the shares of U.S. wheat in Asian markets. In the empirical model, the dependent variable is the market shares of U.S. wheat. Explanatory variables include wheat prices of exporting countries, exchange rates between the importing and exporting countries, and volatilities of the exchange rates. Panel estimation results show that the U.S. currency value and volatility, Australian wheat price, and the volatilities of Canadian and Australian currency values have significant effects on U.S. market shares.
Corticosteroids and the Kidney

The sections in this article are: 1 Historical Background 1.1 Role of the Receptor 1.2 Transport and Biochemical Studies: Toad Bladder 1.3 Transport and Biochemical Studies: Mammalian Kidney 2 Renal Corticosteroid Receptor Distribution 3 Mineralocorticoid Action 3.1 Regulation of Na+ Absorption and K+ Secretion: Cortical Collecting Tubule 3.2 Other Target Sites That May Regulate Na+ and/or K+ 3.3 Acid Excretion 3.4 Mineralocorticoid Escape 4 Glucocorticoid Action 4.1 GFR/RBF: K+ Excretion 4.2 Metabolism: Gluconeogenesis and Ammoniagenesis 4.3 Acid Excretion 4.4 Calcium Excretion 4.5 Concentration/Dilurion Urine