cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Short ultrasound exposure times for noninvasive insulin delivery in rats using the lightweight cymbal array

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the feasibility of using short ultrasound exposure times to noninvasively deliver insulin with a lightweight (<22 g), low-profile (37/spl times/37/spl times/7 mm/sup 3/) cymbal array (f=20 kHz). Using hyperglycemic rats, previous experiments using the array demonstrated that blood glucose would decrease approximately 250 mg/dl from 60 and 20 minutes of pulsed ultrasound exposure for transdermal insulin delivery. Using a similar intensity (I/sub sptp/=100 mW/cm/sup 2/, 20% duty cycle), the goal was to determine if the same effect can be achieved with only 5 minutes of ultrasound exposure. For these experiments, 20 Sprague Dawley rats were anesthetized and shaved, and a 1-mm watertight standoff reservoir that held the insulin or saline was placed between the rat's abdomen and the ultrasound array. At the beginning of the experiment and every 30 minutes, 0.3 ml of blood was collected from the jugular vein to determine the blood glucose level (milligrams per deciliter) for a total of 90 minutes. For comparison purposes between the rats, the change in the glucose level for each rat was normalized to a baseline (i.e., 0 mg/dl). The first control group used insulin in the reservoir without any ultrasound. The second control group had saline in the reservoir with ultrasound operating at I/sub sptp/=100 mW/cm/sup 2/ for 60 minutes. For the noncontrol experiments, the third group used insulin with ultrasound exposure for 10 minutes. The last group used insulin with ultrasound operating with a 5-minute exposure to examine the effects of using short ultrasound exposure times on delivery. For the 10- and 5-minute ultrasound exposure groups, the glucose level was found to decrease from the baseline to -174.6/spl plusmn/67.2 and -200.4/spl plusmn/43.4 mg/dl measured after 1 hour, respectively. These results indicated that ultrasound exposure times do not need to be long to deliver a clinically significant insulin dose to reduce a high blood glucose level.
Barriers pediatricians face when using asthma practice guidelines

Objective To describe barriers to the successful use of the 1997 National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) asthma guidelines. Methods We conducted 3 focus groups to understand barriers to the use of 4 recommendations within the NHLBI guidelines (prescription of inhaled corticosteroids, recommendation of daily peak flowmeter use, smoking cessation screening and counseling, and allergen exposure counseling). Participants Twenty-one pediatricians and 1 nurse practitioner, who each followed an average of 47 patients with asthma, participated. Six participants (27%) had a faculty or adjunct appointment at a medical school. Nineteen (90%) of the 21 pediatricians were board certified. Results We identified 171 comments about barriers to adherence. Type of recommendation and physician year of graduation from medical school were related to which barrier was prominent. For corticosteroid prescription, senior physicians mentioned lack of agreement, whereas younger physicians described lack of confidence in dosing or recognizing contraindications. For peak flowmeter use, senior physicians emphasized lack of training. Only senior physicians described the inertia of previous practice as a barrier. All groups mentioned time limitations. Conclusions Efforts to improve adherence to asthma guidelines should consider the range of barriers that pediatricians face, such as lack of awareness, familiarity, or agreement, and external barriers owing to environmental, guideline, or patient factors. In addition, this study documents barriers not previously considered, such as lack of self-efficacy, lack of outcome expectancy, and inertia of previous practice, that prevent adherence. Because type of recommendation and physician demographics are related to which barriers are prominent, interventions to improve NHLBI guideline adherence should be tailored to these factors.
Mutational analysis of the Escherichia coli DEAD box protein CsdA.

The Escherichia coli cold shock protein CsdA is a member of the DEAD box family of ATP-dependent RNA helicases, which share a core of nine conserved motifs. The DEAD (Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp) motif for which this family is named has been demonstrated to be essential for ATP hydrolysis. We show here that CsdA exhibits in vitro ATPase and helicase activities in the presence of short RNA duplexes with either 3′ or 5′ extensions at 15°C. In contrast to wild-type CsdA, a DQAD variant of CsdA (Glu-157→Gln) had no detectible helicase or ATPase activity at 15°C in vitro. A plasmid encoding the DQAD variant was also unable to suppress the impaired growth of the csdA null mutant at 15°C. Plasmid-encoded CsdAΔ444, which lacks most of the carboxy-terminal extension, enhanced the growth of a csdA null mutant at 25°C but not at 15°C; this truncated protein also has limited in vitro activity at 15°C. These results support the physiological function of CsdA as a DEAD box ATP-dependent RNA helicase at low temperature.
Survival and patterns of relapse in patients with oral tongue cancer.

Purpose To evaluate the survival and patterns of relapse for patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the oral tongue. Patients and Methods Between 1999 and 2007, 50 patients with SCC of the oral tongue were treated at the University of Colorado Denver. Of the 50 patients, 38 had newly diagnosed SCC of the oral tongue (13 with stage I-II and 25 with stage III-IV disease), and 12 presented with locally recurrent SCC. Of the 50 patients, 49 were treated with initial surgery and 1 with definitive chemoradiotherapy. Adjuvant radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy was administered to 42 patients after surgery. Of the 13 patients with newly diagnosed stage I-II disease, 7 did not receive adjuvant therapy. The actuarial locoregional control, freedom from distant relapse, and survival were determined using the Kaplan-Meier method, and comparisons were made using the log-rank test. Results The median follow-up was 29 months (range 4 to 95) for living patients. The 2-year locoregional control and freedom from distant relapse rate was 58% and 83%, respectively. Locoregional control was particularly low among patients with stage I-II disease, for whom the 2-year locoregional control rate was only 35%. The median survival time and 2-year survival rate for all patients was 42 months and 65%, respectively. The 2-year survival rate for patients with stage I-II oral tongue cancer was 77% compared with 52% for patients with stage III-IV disease ( P = .04). Conclusions Despite aggressive therapy, patients with SCC of the oral tongue have a low rate of local tumor control and survival, particularly among those with stage I-II disease. These patients should be considered for inclusion in clinical trials evaluating novel postoperative therapies.
Attainable regions for reaction with separation

The attainable region approach for reaction – mixing systems is combined with geometric methods for the feasibility of separations. The result is a systematic approach to identify the feasible compositions that can be achieved in processes combining simultaneous reaction, mixing, and separation. An activity-based formulation for both nonideal VLE and reaction-rate expressions is applied to develop hybrid reactor–separator models for the multiphase CSTR and PFR with simultaneous vapor removal. A reaction–separation vector is defined that satisfies the same geometric properties as the reaction vector. Therefore, the attainable region can be constructed following the existing procedure for reaction–mixing systems. This approach provides a method to generate feasible process alternatives. The technique is demonstrated on two nonideal ternary mixtures: the production of dimethyl ether by dehydration of methanol, and the production of methyl tert-butyl ether from isobutene and methanol. It is shown that for hybrid reaction–separation devices the entire composition space is not always attainable. In such cases, combining a hybrid device with traditional nonreactive separation is required to attain certain products.
The vacuum bell for conservative treatment of pectus excavatum: the Basle experience

Surgical repair of pectus excavatum (PE) in childhood is a well-established procedure. Previously used operative techniques to correct PE were largely based on the Ravitch technique. Since about 10 years, the minimally invasive repair (MIRPE) by Nuss is well established. Conservative treatment with the vacuum bell to elevate the funnel in patients with PE represents a potential alternative to surgery in selected patients. A suction cup is used to create a vacuum at the anterior chest wall. Three different sizes of vacuum bell exist which are selected according to the individual patients age. When creating the vacuum, the lift of the sternum is obvious and remains for a different time period. The device should be used for a minimum of 30 min (twice/day), and may be used up to a maximum of several hours daily. One hundred and thirty-three patients (110 males, 23 females) aged from 3 to 61 years (median 16.21 years) used the vacuum bell for 1 to a maximum of 36 months. Computed tomographic scans showed that the device lifted the sternum and ribs immediately. In addition, this was confirmed thoracoscopically during the MIRPE procedure. One hundred and five patients showed a permanent lift of the sternum for more than 1 cm after 3 months of daily application. Thirteen patients stopped the application and underwent MIRPE. Relevant side effects were not noted. The vacuum bell has proved to be an alternative therapeutic option in selected patients suffering from PE. The initial results proved to be dramatic, but long-term results are so far lacking, and further evaluation and follow-up studies are necessary.
DISTRIBUTIONS OF LOCAL MANDELBROT-HURST EXPONENTS: MOTOR ACTIVITY IN FETAL RATS OF COCAINIZED MOTHERS AND MANIC-DEPRESSIVE PATIENTS

Intermittency, in which the normalized weight of large fluctuations grows for increasingly longer statistical samples, is seen as irregular bursting activity in time and is characteristic of the behavior of many brain and behavioral systems. This pattern has been related to the brain-stabilizing interplay of the general mechanisms of silence-evoked sensitization and activity-evoked desensitization, which can be found at most levels of neurobiological function and which vary more smoothly and at much longer times than the phasic observables. We use both the global Mandelbrot-Hurst exponent and the distribution of local Mandelbrot-Hurst exponents, in combination with dynamical entropies, to quantitate the property of nonuniform persistence which we treat as both deterministically expansive and statistically diffusive. For example, varying the parameter of the one-dimensional, Manneville-Pomeau intermittency map generated time series which demonstrated systematic changes in these statistical indices of persistence. Relatively small doses of cocaine administered to pregnant rats increased statistical indices of expansiveness and persistence in fetal motor behavior. These techniques also model and characterize a breakdown of statistical scaling in 72-hour time series of the amount of motor activity in some hospitalized manic-depressive patients.
Differential radiosensitivity of rat blastocysts during delayed implantation.

SummaryMitotically active rat blastocysts on Day 5 of castration-induced delayed pregnancy are initially more sensitive to the lethal effects of X-irradiation in vivo than are mitotically dormant blastocysts on Day 9. However, embryonic survival in animals irradiated on Day 5 increases significantly if implantation is postponed for 24 or 48 hr, indicating that recovery from potentially lethal X-ray damage can occur during early delayed implantation. Although the quiescent blastocyst on Day 9 of delayed pregnancy is initially more resistant to radiation insult than is the embryo on Day 5, the former exhibits no capacity to repair lethal X-ray damage.
A discrete Fourier transform approach to a constrained mixed H/sup 2/ sensitivity optimization with applications

This paper addresses a robust controller design for multiinput-multioutput (MIMO) discrete-time systems by approximately solving a constrained mixed H/sup 2/ sensitivity minimization problem. Using some of the digital image restoration techniques and by working in the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) domain, we convert the H/sup 2/ control problem into a constrained vector minimization problem in the l/sup 2/-space. A two-stage solution approach is detailed and the robust controller is constructed. The advantage of using the proposed method is that the l/sup 2/-space solution can be analytically expressed and efficiently calculated via existing multichannel algorithms due to the partially block circular structure of the matrices involved in the DFT domain. The approximation can be made arbitrarily close to the original H/sup 2/ control problem if the number of the DFT points is large. Several examples are given to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method.
Implementation of the Uniform Donor History Questionnaire across the American Red Cross Blood Services: increased deferral among repeat presenters but no measurable impact on blood safety

BACKGROUND: The Uniform Donor History Questionnaire (UDHQ) was implemented across the American Red Cross Blood Services in 2005. This study assessed the potential impact of changes inherent in UDHQ implementation on deferral and on prevalence of infectious disease markers among donated units. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Deferral and donation records were extracted and analyzed for the period of April 1, 2005, to September 30, 2005, after the implementation of the UDHQ and for the same period in the previous year. For comparison, most of the questions in the UDHQ were aligned with corresponding questions in the previous questionnaire, although such alignment could not be exact because of changes in the wording and organization of the questions. RESULTS: From 2004 (1 year previously) to 2005 (UDHQ), significant changes in deferral rate were observed for different groups of deferral questions, with the largest being +99.2 percent for “man who had sex with another man” and +92.0 percent for “receipt of blood, tissue, organ, or clotting factor concentrates or a bleeding condition or a blood disease” among repeat presenters. Changes to the educational material and the wording of questions, elimination of compound questions, and other concurrent changes could have contributed to the changed deferral rates. There was no significant change in prevalence rates of major infectious disease markers. CONCLUSIONS: Implementation of the UDHQ impacted on donor deferral, including increased deferral among repeat presenters. No significant impact was observed for infectious disease marker rates. Further monitoring for longer-term trends is recommended.
Genetic analysis of regulatory mutants of alkaline phosphatase of E. coli.

A fine structure map of the phoR region of E. coli , mutations of which affect the rate of alkaline phosphatase synthesis, was constructed by Hfr x F- crosses. Mutations causing three different phenotypes (previously reported as phoRa, phoRb, phoRc (Garen and Echols 1962a, b)) are clustered in three closely linked genetic loci. PhoR mutants of all three types, including the phoRb type not previously tested, are recessive to wild-type phoR+. In addition, phoRa and phoRc complement each other, while phoRa and phoRb do not. Our results support the hypothesis of Morris et al. (1974) that phoRc mutants represent a cistron (phoB) different from phoR.
Energy information and data retrieval

Abstract The multidisciplinary nature of energy issues, coupled with the proliferation of publications in diverse journals, makes it difficult to review the literature in traditional ways. Fortunately, modern computer technology and library science bring rapid literature searches within the easy reach of individual researchers. The use of encyclopedic computer databases is discussed with particular reference to the DIALOG system. An appendix on equipment needs is included.
Effect of Trifluralin on Growth, Morphology, and Nucleic Acid Synthesis

Roots and shoots of corn seedlings (Zea mays L. var. Dixie 18) germinated in trifluralin (α,α,α-trifluoro-2,6-dinitro-N,N-dipropyl-p-toluidine) solutions are characterized by radial enlargement of the cortical cells and by multinucleate cells in the meristematic regions. Trifluralin inhibits elongation of Avena coleoptile sections at concentrations of 0.1 μm to 10 μm. Synthesis of DNA, RNA, and protein is suppressed in the root tips while no significant effect is noticeable in the shoots of corn germinated in trifluralin. A 32P time-course study of 48, 72, and 96 hours utilizing phenol extraction and MAK column separation of corn root and shoot nucleic acids showed suppression of 32P incorporation in the treated roots; however, the 72 and 96 hour treated shoots incorporated a much greater amount than the control with most of the increased incorporation found in the sRNA and DNA fractions. The increased activity in the DNA may be due to a high G-C type DNA. No selective suppression or enhancement of any particular RNA species was noticed in the treated plants.
DSM-5 PTSD in Children Six Years and Younger: Implications for Assessment and Treatment

The DSM-5 includes major revisions to the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis including new and separate diagnostic criteria for children ages 6 and younger. The PTSD diagnosis for young children reflects developmentally appropriate criteria and behavioral indicators previously not addressed in the DSM. This is significant due to the high incidence of trauma and maltreatment experienced by young children, yet common misclassification and underresponse within mental health. This article provides (a) an overview of the prevalence of trauma in young children, (b) a developmental presentation of PTSD, and (c) a review of the new DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for PTSD in children ages 6 and younger. Additionally, practical implications offer counselors guidance in assessment, diagnosis and intervention.
Beyond inclusiveness: institutions, cooperation and rural development

AbstractDevelopment studies emphasise the critical role of institutions in generating conditions for economic growth and shared prosperity, categorising them as either inclusive (development-promoting) or extractive (development-inhibiting). This article demonstrates that trade barriers led a multinational corporation to cooperate with small-scale dairy farmers, facilitating successful rural development. Moreover, the inclusive dairy association that evolved as a result is helping farmers respond to recent trade liberalisation under the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA). Thus, categorising institutions a priori as inclusive or extractive neglects the fact that institutions are constrained and enabled by others in their environment, and obscures the mediation of power relations among social actors.
High Resolution Prediction of Calcium-Binding Sites in 3D Protein Structures Using FEATURE.

Metal-binding proteins are ubiquitous in biological systems ranging from enzymes to cell surface receptors. Among the various biologically active metal ions, calcium plays a large role in regulating cellular and physiological changes. With the increasing number of high-quality crystal structures of proteins associated with their metal ion ligands, many groups have built models to identify Ca2+ sites in proteins, utilizing information such as structure, geometry, or homology to do the inference. We present a FEATURE-based approach in building such a model and show that our model is able to discriminate between nonsites and calcium-binding sites with a very high precision of more than 98%. We demonstrate the high specificity of our model by applying it to test sets constructed from other ions. We also introduce an algorithm to convert high scoring regions into specific site predictions and demonstrate the usage by scanning a test set of 91 calcium-binding protein structures (190 calcium sites). The algorith...
Variations on Ballot Format in Low-Information Elections

A common problem with studying the impact of ballot formats is the inability to test them in real world circumstances, due to the inability to vary election methods within states each year. This study examines the effect of ballot format on low information judicial elections. The pool of subjects consisted of over 550 undergraduate students enrolled in introductory American Government classes. Each subject was given an information sheet to simulate the usually available information about each candidate, and then asked to complete one of three randomly distributed ballots. Each ballot contained a race for President, U.S. Senate, and two hypothetical judicial posts. The three ballot formats given to the subjects included a straight ticket format, partisan format without the straight ticket option, and a non-partisan format. The results help to better identify the impact of alternative ballot formats on voter decision.
Taking charge: making partnerships work for better health outcomes.

The ambitious goal of eliminating racial and ethnic disparities in health care will require a strong message, creative approaches and close collaboration by public and private partners across the health system, Dr. James Gavin, new president of Morehouse School of Medicine, told the audience at the closing session of the Primary Care Conference. The goal cannot be reached without ‘‘a concerted and sustained focus on development of effective, integrated interagency and cross-organizational partnerships,’’ he said. ‘‘This conference has addressed issues that are at the very core of our efforts at the Morehouse School of Medicine to train physicians, healthcare providers, leaders, and physicianscientists to serve the medically under-served, especially those who are burdened by the impact of health disparities,’’ Dr. Gavin said. ‘‘The impact of health disparities is so devastating because the safety net is in tatters, the system is seriously broken, and the partnerships for effective repair are not sufficiently in place,’’ he stated. ‘‘We must take charge.’’
Modulating and evaluating receptor promiscuity through directed evolution and modeling

The promiscuity of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) has broad implications in disease, pharmacology and biosensing. Promiscuity is a particularly crucial consideration for protein engineering, where the ability to modulate and model promiscuity is essential for developing desirable proteins. Here, we present methodologies for (i) modifying GPCR promiscuity using directed evolution and (ii) predicting receptor response and identifying important peptide features using quantitative structure-activity relationship models and grouping-exhaustive feature selection. We apply these methodologies to the yeast pheromone receptor Ste2 and its native ligand α-factor. Using directed evolution, we created Ste2 mutants with altered specificity toward a library of α-factor variants. We then used the Vectors of Hydrophobic, Steric, and Electronic properties and partial least squares regression to characterize receptor-ligand interactions, identify important ligand positions and properties, and predict receptor response to novel ligands. Together, directed evolution and computational analysis enable the control and evaluation of GPCR promiscuity. These approaches should be broadly useful for the study and engineering of GPCRs and other protein-small molecule interactions.
Asthma and corticosteroids: time for a more precise approach to treatment

Prescribing corticosteroids for asthma based on mechanism-based endotypes rather than trait-based phenotypes http://ow.ly/HiHq30cA6Da
Progress in power enhancement of sub-millimeter compact EIKs

To meet demands of DNP, sub-mm-wave radar and other THz frequency markets, CPI Canada continues the performance improvements of CW and pulsed compact EIKs. The novel model of a 266 GHz oscillator generates up to 15 W of CW power, while the expected power of a 264 GHz pulsed amplifier currently in fabrication is 50 W. Together with power enhancements, major attention is paid to reliability, lifetime and signal stability.
Indwelling (Transurethral and Suprapubic) Catheters

Indwelling urinary catheters have been utilized to empty the bladder since as early as 3000 B.C. Today, IUCs are used in selected patients for urinary retention, prevention of UTIs in those with incomplete bladder emptying, prevention of upper urinary tract deterioration, for comfort in the terminally ill patient, as well as for many other indications. Indwelling urinary catheters can be made from many different materials, come in an array of sizes, shapes, and designs allowing for easier insertion, improved patient comfort, as well as a potential reduction in associated complications. However, despite their widespread use, very little research has been conducted on these commonly used devices. With recent regulatory and financial pressures directed toward reducing catheter-associated urinary tract infections in hospitals, attention has been refocused toward the use of IUC in this setting. Now, more than ever, research is being conducted to see what measures can be initiated to reduce hospital acquired catheter-associated urinary tract infections. Such measures include catheter checklists with algorithms to decrease unindicated catheter use and enhance appropriate and timely removal of catheters when no longer required.
Changes in prostate orientation due to removal of a Foley catheter.

Purpose Investigate the impact on prostate orientation caused by use and removal of a Foley catheter, and the dosimetric impact on men prospectively treated with prostate stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). Methods Twenty-two men underwent a CT simulation with a Foley in place (FCT), followed immediately by a second treatment planning simulation without the Foley (TPCT). The change in prostate orientation was determined by rigid registration of three implanted transponders between FCT and TPCT and compared to measured orientation changes during treatment. The impact on treatment planning and delivery was investigated by analyzing the measured rotations during treatment relative to both CT scans, and introducing rotations of ±15° in the treatment plan to determine the maximum impact of allowed rotations. Results Removing the Foley caused a statistically significant prostate rotation (P 37 Gy in all but one instance. Conclusions Removing a Foley catheter can cause large prostate rotations. There does not appear to be a clear dosimetric benefit to obtaining the CT scan with a Foley catheter to define the urethra given the changes in urethral position from removing the Foley catheter. If urethral sparing is desired without the use of a Foley, utilization of an MRI to define the urethra may be necessary, or a pseudo-urethral planning organ at risk volume (PRV) may be used to limit dosimetric hot spots.
Physiologic evaluation of the anorectum. A new ultrasound technique.

Pelvic floor physiology is a complex area of clinical study. Continence and voiding functions are not completely understood. Incontinence is an especially underrated problem. With the use of manometry and ultrasound, anorectal physiology is evaluated and correlated with clinical dysfunction. A description of a previously undescribed ultrasound technique to evaluate anorectal angles and puborectalis function is presented. The results in 10 controls and 53 symptomatic patients with different degrees of continence dysfunction are discussed. The controls showed anal pressures and anorectal angles of 29 cm H2O and 114‡ at rest and 67 cm H2O and 95‡ with contraction. Six of the symptomatic patients had complete incontinence to solid stools. The results of their pressures and angles were 14 cm H2O and 151‡ at rest and 32 cm H2O and 124‡ with contraction. The values of this group compared with controls is significantly different (P<0.05). Ultrasound is helpful in assessing the pelvic floor, both subjectively and objectively. It has the advantages of avoiding radiation and allowing a longer viewing time. It is less expensive compared with radiographie proctography and the data are complementary. Ultrasound and manometry may be useful for long-term follow-up of anorectal physiology.
Response latency in interest assessment: An added tool?

Abstract In this study, we used reports of and response times to vocational interest assessment from 989 adults on the Personal Globe Inventory-Short (PGI-Short) and Personal Globe Inventory-Mini (PGI-Mini) to examine the associations between item response and response latency and the potential additive effects of response latency on interest assessment. Findings revealed a curvilinear relation between item response and mirrored response latency such that individuals responded to interest items more quickly when they strongly like or dislike an activity and took longer time to respond when their interests were ambivalence. Further, reflected response latency were found to enhance reliability for both the PGI-Short and the PGI-Mini, and the fit between the combined item response and responding latency vocational interests had additional predictive effects on vocational certainty, over and beyond the effects of regular item responses, but only for the PGI-Mini. Applications and implications of item response latency to interest and other assessments were discussed.
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN) Type 2

Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2) is an autosomal-dominant tumor syndrome characterized by the presence of medullary thyroid carcinoma, pheochromocytoma, and parathyroid hyperplasia/adenoma. It was first recognized clinically in the 1950s and described by Sipple in 1961. Approximately 1000 kindreds have been identified worldwide; approximately 1 in 40,000 individuals is affected. MEN2 is an excellent example of how the use of molecular genetics can lead to preventive surgery through subsequent studies of families. The gene responsible for MEN2 is RET, a proto-oncogene that was discovered in 1985 during transfection assays. RET is expressed in neural crest-derived cells, such as the chromaffin cells in the adrenal gland and the parafollicular C cells in the thyroid gland. The encoded protein RET is a receptor tyrosine kinase. RET is considered to be responsible for MEN2, since 97% of patients with MEN2 have germ-line mutations in this gene. Since almost all patients develop medullary thyroid carcinoma, a neuroendocrine tumor that frequently metastasizes, prophylactic thyroidectomy has been recommended for individuals with a RET germ-line mutation. However, the age of medullary thyroid carcinoma development varies widely (from 1 to 80 years of age) in individuals with the same germ-line mutation in RET. This underscores the concept that there must be other genetic events that trigger tumor formation in vivo. Studies have elucidated the pathogenesis of MEN2-associated tumors, proposing a “second hit” through overrepresentation and amplification of mutant RET. MEN2 has been subdivided into three classes: MEN2A, familial medullary thyroid carcinoma, and MEN2B.
The Effect of Alternative Judicial Systems and Settlement on Auditing

The accounting profession claims that the substantial litigation costs incurred to defend against negligence claims are used by plaintiffs to coerce settlement. We examine a model of auditing and settlement under the U.S. and British systems of allocating litigation costs between a plaintiff and defendant and compare the level of equilibrium auditing and audit pricing across the two regimes.
Exploitation of Surface Molecules for Separation of Cells from Mosaic Livers

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the exploitation of surface molecules for separation of cells from mosaic livers. The liver parenchyma is a biochemically mosaic tissue. This natural mosaicism has been exploited to demonstrate the clonal nature of early hyperplastic liver lesions arising during chemically induced liver carcinogenesis in mice. Natural mosaicism has been employed in an analogous manner in the past to demonstrate clonality of some human tumors. Two immunological approaches to purification of donor-origin hepatocytes from genotypic mosaic livers, differential hepatocyte rosetting, and complement-mediated cytolysis have provided 4- to 11-fold enrichments for donor-origin hepatocytes. A panning technique is suitable for purification of host-origin hepatocytes. A combination of these cell separation strategies should make possible preparative scale purification of donor and host-origin cells from genotypic mosaic rat livers. In principle, the techniques should be applicable to other genotypic mosaic tissues in which developmental or pathogenic cellular lineages must be elucidated. This panning separation of host-origin cells is a positive immunoselective technique in contrast to the two negative selection techniques described as donor-origin cells.
New Types of Transducers

For almost 30 years piezoelectric ceramics have been the main transducer material used in underwater acoustics in spite of certain disadvantages as high mechanical impedance, brittleness, high electrical impedance at low frequencies, limited size of homogeneous pieces, and variability in the raw materials. In recent years some new types of transduction have been tested. These have included piezopolymers, acousto-optic sensors, several new magnetic materials, and ceramic-elastomer composites. Each of these is reviewed and its strong and weak points discussed. None have, as yet, reached the stage of being engineered into sonar systems.
Dentin bonding system. Part II: effect of crosshead speed

Dentin bond strengths are normally evaluated by conducting mechanical tests in tensile and/or shear mode at a certain level of crosshead speed. According to the literature review, crosshead speed is varied in a relatively wide range from 0.1 mm/min to 10.0 mm/min (with the exception of a few studies conducted above 10.0 mm/min). It was also found that crosshead speeds of 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 5.0 mm1min were comrrionly employed to evaluate dentin bond strengths for both tensile and shear modes, although no rationale for selecting the crosshead speed was described in the articles. For testing dentin bond strengths, no plastic deformation should be involved, and fracture only should take place during the fracturing process. With the Scotchbond Multiple-Purpose/ZlOO bonding system, tensile bond strengths were evaluated at crosshead speeds of 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 5.0 and 10.0 mm/min. It was found that (i) there was no strain rate sensitivity when the test was conducted below the 1.0 mm/min crosshead speed, and (ii) if the crosshead speed exceeded 1.0 mm/min, a strain rate dependency of the tensile bond strengths was observed. Knowledge that the composite resin (Z100) did not exhibit strain rate dependency influenced the conclusion that (Hi) the above observed strain rate dependency was solely due to the mechanical response from the bonding interface region.
Bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) Foraging on American Cranberry in Massachusetts

Abstract We studied diversity and abundance of bees foraging on Vaccinium macrocarpon (American Cranberry) flowers in southeastern Massachusetts during 8 bloom periods between 2007 and 2016. We documented 6 families, 20 genera, and 72 species of bees. Only Bombus (bumble bee) species were abundant in any of the collection years. Ways in which the upland areas surrounding cultivated cranberry beds and American Cranberry itself may be inhospitable for many small-bodied bee populations with limited flight ranges are reviewed. Bombus dominated (>90%) the collection. Comparison with observations in the first half of the 20th century, together with collections made during a less-intensive survey 25 years ago, suggest that 2 Bombus species are increasing in abundance, but that at least half of the Bombus species previously observed in this region have become rare or locally extinct.
Kudzu and sleeper cells: the varied ecology of respiratory infections.

We have known for over a century that nontuberculous mycobacterial infections differ microbiologically and immunologically from those of typical bacterial pathogens. We are now learning they differ ecologically as well.http://ow.ly/8sau30lCqHz
miR-146a mediates thymosin β4 induced neurovascular remodeling of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in type-II diabetic mice.

Abstract Diabetes induces neurovascular dysfunction leading to peripheral neuropathy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) affect many biological processes and the development of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. In the present study, we investigated whether thymosin-β4 (Tβ4) ameliorates diabetic peripheral neuropathy and whether miR-146a mediates the effect of Tβ4 on improved neurovascular function. Male Type II diabetic BKS. Cg-m+/+Leprdb/J (db/db) mice at age 20 weeks were treated with Tβ4 for 8 consecutive weeks, and db/db mice treated with saline were used as a control group. Compared to non-diabetic mice, diabetic mice exhibited substantially reduced miR-146a expression, and increased IL-1R-associated kinase-1 (IRAK1), tumor necrosis factor (TNFR)-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) levels and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NFkB) activity in sciatic nerve tissues. Treatment of diabetic mice with Tβ4 significantly elevated miR-146a levels and overcame the effect of diabetes on these proteins. Tβ4 treatment substantially improved motor and sensory conduction velocity of the sciatic nerve, which was associated with improvements in sensory function. Tβ4 treatment significantly increased intraepidermal nerve fiber density and augmented local blood flow and the density of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-dextran perfused vessels in the sciatic nerve tissue. In vitro, treatment of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and mouse dermal endothelial cells (MDEs) with Tβ4 significantly increased axonal outgrowth and capillary-like tube formation, whereas blocking miR-146a attenuated Tβ4-induced axonal outgrowth and capillary tube formation, respectively. Our data indicate that miR-146a may mediate Tβ4-induced neurovascular remodeling in diabetic mice, by suppressing pro-inflammatory signals.
Persistent homology of complex networks for dynamic state detection

In this paper we develop an alternative topological data analysis (TDA) approach for studying graph representations of time series of dynamical systems. Specifically, we show how persistent homology, a tool from TDA, can be used to yield a compressed, multi-scale representation of the graph that can distinguish between dynamic states such as periodic and chaotic behavior. We show the approach for two graph constructions obtained from the time series. In the first approach the time series is embedded into a point cloud which is then used to construct an undirected k-nearest-neighbor graph. The second construct relies on the recently developed ordinal partition framework. In either case, a pairwise distance matrix is then calculated using the shortest path between the graph's nodes, and this matrix is utilized to define a filtration of a simplicial complex that enables tracking the changes in homology classes over the course of the filtration. These changes are summarized in a persistence diagram's two-dimensional summary of changes in the topological features. We then extract existing as well as new geometric and entropy point summaries from the persistence diagram and compare to other commonly used network characteristics. Our results show that persistence-based point summaries yield a clearer distinction of the dynamic behavior and are more robust to noise than existing graph-based scores, especially when combined with ordinal graphs.
Mapping the Travels of Intersectionality Scholarship: A Citation Network Analysis:

In this study, we conducted a citation network analysis of intersectionality scholarship. We aimed to elucidate content domains in this scholarship’s citation network. In addition, we explored a ci...
A structural chemistry look at composites recycling

Composite materials, especially carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs), are high-performance class of structural materials now commonly used in aircraft, marine, and other applications, with emerging large-scale use in the automotive and civil engineering applications. The difficulty of recycling these materials is a key obstacle preventing their further application in larger markets. For decades, the engineering community has pursued physical methods to recover value from end-of-life composite waste. This work has generated scalable methods to recover modest value from CFRP waste, but because of their low value recovery, these are applied to a small fraction of CFRP waste. By contrast, relatively few methods to recycle CFRPs have been based on strategic approaches systematically to deconstruct the thermoset polymers that hold them together. In this Focus Article, we will show the emergence of these structure-focused approaches to CFRP recycling and illustrate the path of this research toward the ultimate realization of methods to recover both the reinforcing fibers and the thermoset materials that comprise modern CFRPs.
37. RAPID CYCLE DELIBERATE PRACTICE SIMULATION FOR RESIDENT EDUCATION AT A COMMUNITY HOSPITAL SITE

Background Community hospitals offer opportunity for increased pediatric resident autonomy yet may require more direct use of resuscitation skills than more resource-rich settings. Rapid cycle deliberate practice (RCDP) simulation teaches critical skill mastery using feedback-replay loops and can be used for resident education. Objective: We sought to establish a RCDP simulation program and improve pediatric residents’ preparation to handle medical emergencies at our community hospital training site. Methods We designed and conducted high fidelity RCDP simulation every 2 weeks on the community hospital ward. RCDP led by trained faculty and chief residents focused on Pediatric Advanced Life Support skills and activating clinical support for pediatric respiratory distress. Resident physicians on rotation at the community hospital (Bridgeport) and on duty nurses participated. We later asked all 35 resident participants to complete an anonymous web-based survey to assess non-simulated and simulated pediatric code experience. 2 open-ended questions assessed RCDP experience and its impact on the community hospital rotation. We performed descriptive statistics and qualitative thematic analysis by 2 reviewers to identify themes of residents’ experiences. Results 77% (n=27) of residents responded. 68% had participated in at least one non-simulated pediatric code during residency; 43% in 1-2, 18% in 3-5, and 7% in >5. Yale New Haven (YNH) PICU was the most common location of code participation (47%, n=14), 17% (n=5) at the Bridgeport ED, 13% (n=4) at the YNH Pediatric ED, 7% (n=2) on a YNH ward, and 7% (n=2) on the Bridgeport ward. Only 1 resident had ever acted as team leader in a pediatric code. 4 major themes of resident experience were identified: practical community-hospital specific preparation, teamwork, improved confidence, and helpful formative feedback. Conclusions We established a community hospital-focused RCDP simulation program. Residents report that RCDP provided relevant, practical preparation and improved confidence in the ability to deal with respiratory distress at the community hospital site.
Self-Consistent Computational Fluid Dynamics of Supersonic Drag Reduction via Upstream-Focused Laser-Energy Deposition

We present applications of laser-energy deposition for drag reduction in supersonic flow. The system of chemically reactive Navier–Stokes equations describes the hydrodynamics where nonequilibrium ...
Prophylactic negative vacuum therapy of high-risk esophageal anastomoses in pediatric patients.

Abstract Background: Esophageal anastomoses are at risk for leak or stricture. Negative pressure vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) therapy is used to treat leak. We hypothesized that a prophylactic VAC (pEVAC) at the time of new anastomosis may lead to fewer leaks and strictures. Methods: Single center retrospective case-control study of patients undergoing high-risk esophageal anastomoses between July 2015 and January 2019. Outcomes of leak and long-term anastomotic failure (refractory stricture requiring surgery) were compared between groups. Results: Sixteen patients had a pEVAC placed during LGEA repair (N = 10) or stricture resection (N = 6). Of pEVAC cases, 3 (N = 1 Foker, N = 2 stricture resections) experienced leak (18.8%). In comparison, leak occurred in 9/41 (22%) Foker patients and in 1/20 (5%) stricture resections without pEVAC, all p > 0.05. Long-term anastomotic failure was more common in the pEVAC cohort versus controls (56.3% versus 11.5%, p Conclusions: Prophylactic EVAC placement does not appear to reduce leak and is associated with significantly greater odds of long-term anastomotic failure. Further device refinement could improve its potential role in prophylaxis of high-risk anastomoses, but future research is needed to better understand optimal patient selection, device design, and duration of pEVAC therapy.
Antibody subtypes and titers predict clinical outcomes in ANCA-associated vasculitis.

The objective of this study is to evaluate the association between antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody (ANCA) subtype and ANCA titers on clinical outcomes and disease activity among a cohort of patients from Central Appalachia diagnosed with ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) over a 3-decade period. This is a retrospective chart review of all patients diagnosed with AAV. ANCA subtypes (myeloperoxidase (MPO) and proteinase 3 (PR3)) and titers at the time of diagnosis and at the time of relapse or last follow-up were evaluated along with patient outcomes. Outcomes of interest included relapse, development of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and mortality. Sensitivity analysis and multivariable analysis were performed. Of the 202 patients, 111 patients were MPO-ANCA positive and 91 patients were PR3-ANCA positive. Relapse was more frequent among patients with PR3-ANCA compared to MPO-ANCA (35% vs 12%, p < 0.001). In both ANCA subgroups, the strongest predictor of relapse was an increase in titers prior to relapse, HR 8.1 (95% CI 1.6–40), p 0.009. Patients who achieved serological remission had a lower risk of ESRD [sub-HR 0.31 (95% CI 0.11–0.89)] and mortality [HR (95% CI) 0.24 (0.07–0.7)]. PR3-ANCA was associated with higher risk of ESRD [sub-HR 3.1 (95% CI 1.1–8.5)]. There was no difference in mortality between patients with MPO-ANCA and PR3-ANCA. Our study supports the use of both ANCA subtypes and titer levels for predicting clinical outcomes in patients receiving treatment for AAV. Monitoring of ANCA antibody titers may be useful since both serological remission and increase in titers provide prognostic information.
Self-Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors Interview-Revised (SITBI-R): Reliability, Validity, and Inter-Informant Agreement in an Adolescent Sample

Objective: The present study sought to evaluate the psychometric properties and inter-informant agreement of the Self-Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors Interview-Revised (SITBI-R) in adolescents and...