cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Coordination of droplets on light-actuated digital microfluidic systems

In this paper we explore the problem of coordinating multiple droplets in light-actuated digital microfluidic systems intended for use as lab-on-a-chip systems. In a light-actuated digital microfluidic system, droplets of chemicals are actuated on a photosensitive chip by moving projected light patterns. Our goal is to perform automated manipulation of multiple droplets in parallel on a microfluidic platform. To achieve collision-free droplet coordination while optimizing completion times, we apply multiple robot coordination techniques. We present a mixed integer linear programming formulation for coordinating droplets given their paths. This approach permits arbitrary droplet formations, and coordination of both individual droplets and batches of droplets. We then present a linear time stepwise approach for batch coordination of droplet matrix layouts.
Tutorial workshop II: Dynamics and control of biological oscillations

Oscillations are often observed in nature at multiple levels, and form a basis for sustained operation of various functionalities. The objective of this workshop is to introduce biological principles for coordinated oscillations to the control engineering community, and to provide a tutorial overview of recent developments on the analysis and design of dynamical mechanisms for oscillations, inspired by biological control systems. A particular focus will be placed on rhythmic body movements observed in animal locomotion, controlled by neuronal circuits called central pattern generators (CPGs). An introduction to biological oscillations will be given frst through an example of undulatory swimming. Biological mechanisms for locomotion will be mathematically formalized by viewing rhythmic movements as a limit cycle resulting from dynamic interactions of a CPG, body, and environment. We then discuss a neuronal pattern formation problem, where it is examined how the interconnection structure within a CPG relates to the oscillation profle. A biomechanical pattern formation problem is also discussed, where an optimal periodic body motion (or gait) is sought to minimize a quadratic cost function while maintaining a prescribed locomotion velocity.
Lipopolysaccharide-induced dynamic lipid membrane reorganization: tubules, perforations, and stacks.

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a unique lipoglycan, with two major physiological roles: 1), as a major structural component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria and 2), as a highly potent mammalian toxin when released from cells into solution (endotoxin). LPS is an amphiphile that spontaneously inserts into the outer leaflet of lipid bilayers to bury its hydrophobic lipidic domain, leaving the hydrophilic polysaccharide chain exposed to the exterior polar solvent. Divalent cations have long been known to neutralize and stabilize LPS in the outer membrane, whereas LPS in the presence of monovalent cations forms highly mobile negatively-charged aggregates. Yet, much of our understanding of LPS and its interactions with the cell membrane does not take into account its amphiphilic biochemistry and charge polarization. Herein, we report fluorescence microscopy and atomic force microscopy analysis of the interaction between LPS and fluid-phase supported lipid bilayer assemblies (sLBAs), as model membranes. Depending on cation availability, LPS induces three remarkably different effects on simple sLBAs. Net-negative LPS-Na+ leads to the formation of 100-μm-long flexible lipid tubules from surface-associated lipid vesicles and the destabilization of the sLBA resulting in micron-size hole formation. Neutral LPS-Ca2+ gives rise to 100-μm-wide single- or multilamellar planar sheets of lipid and LPS formed from surface-associated lipid vesicles. Our findings have important implications about the physical interactions between LPS and lipids and demonstrate that sLBAs can be useful platforms to study the interactions of amphiphilic virulence factors with cell membranes. Additionally, our study supports the general phenomenon that lipids with highly charged or bulky headgroups can promote highly curved membrane architectures due to electrostatic and/or steric repulsions.
Physiology of wound healing

Despite the emphasis placed on skin care, hospitalized infants often experience injury to their skin. Although skin injuries vary, they have a common innate mechanism for repair and healing. Wound healing is a physiologic process that involves a series of sequential yet overlapping stages. The first stage, hemostasis, occurs immediately at the time of injury. During hemostasis, a provisional matrix seals the injury site and initiates the process of wound healing. The second stage, inflammation, is triggered by a variety of mediators released from injured tissue cells and capillaries, activated platelets and their cytokines, and the by-products of hemostasis. During the third stage, the wound surface is covered with new skin and vascular and structural integrity are restored as granulation tissue fills the defect. The final stage, remodeling, is responsible for maturation of the granulation tissue into mature connective tissue and/or scar. A thorough understanding of wound healing physiology is an important prerequisite to providing care that optimizes wound healing and prevents unnecessary complications. Many of the current wound care practices are based on tradition rather than scientific knowledge. As the interface between the infant and the environment, nurses are in an ideal position to evaluate the soundness of these wound care practices. Physiologic-based care strategies to enhance wound healing are proposed. Copyright © 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company
RESETTING SEMIACTIVE STIFFNESS DAMPER FOR SEISMIC RESPONSE CONTROL

Recently, a semiactive hydraulic stiffness damper operating in the resetting mode, referred to as the resetting semiactive stiffness damper (RSASD), was shown to be effective in reducing the structural response due to dynamic loads. In this paper, a general resetting control law based on the Lyapunov theory is proposed for an RSASD. The performance of such a resetting controller and of a switching control method are investigated through extensive numerical simulations using different types of earthquake excitations. Simulation results indicate that an RSASD is more effective in suppressing the building response subject to earthquakes than a switching semiactive stiffness damper. Likewise, the performance of a particular control method depends on the types of earthquake excitations.
The safety of studies with intravenous Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol in humans, with case histories

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is one of the few cannabinoid receptor ligands that can be used to probe the cannabinoid system in humans. Despite increasing interest in the cannabinoid receptor system, use of intravenous THC as a research tool has been limited by concerns about its abuse liability and psychoactive effects. This study aims to evaluate the safety of all intravenous THC studies conducted at this center for the past 13 years. Included were 11 studies with 266 subjects (14 schizophrenia patients and 252 healthy subjects, of whom 76 were frequent cannabis users), 351 active THC infusions, and 226 placebo infusions. Subjects were monitored for subjective and physical adverse events and followed up to 12 months beyond study participation. There was one serious and 70 minor adverse events in 9.7% of subjects and 7.4% of infusions, with 8.5% occurring after the end of the test day. Nausea and dizziness were the most frequent side effects. Adverse events were more likely to be associated with faster infusion rates (2–5 min) and higher doses (>2.1 mg/70 kg). Of 149 subjects on whom long-term follow-up data were gathered, 94% reported either no change or a reduction in their desire to use cannabis in the post-study period, 18% stated that their cannabis use decreased, and 3% stated that it increased in the post-study period. With careful subject selection and screening, risk to subjects is relatively low. Safeguards are generally sufficient and effective, reducing both the duration and severity of adverse events.
Microwave search for molecules in Comet Kohoutek

WE report here a molecular radio line search in Comet Kohoutek using the 108–116 GHz spectral line receiver on the NRAO 36-foot telescope during January 14–18, 1974. We discuss some of the reasons for the negative results obtained in our search for transitions of methyl cyanide, cyanogen, cyanoacetylene, propynal and formic acid (all good ‘parent’ molecules for the diatomics and radicals known in the optical spectra of comets).
Forced convection heat transfer about a cylinder placed in porous media with longitudinal flows

Abstract Forced convection heat transfer about a circular cylinder placed in a saturated porous matrix with a uniform longitudinal flow has been studied both analytically and numerically. Based on Darcian flow and the boundary layer approximation, a closed form solution has been obtained. The Nusselt number is shown to be a function of a single parameter ξ, which is a measure of curvature. The predicted heat transfer results were compared with the complete two-dimensional solutions and available experimental data: the validity of the analytical prediction has been confirmed.
Synthesis and formation of monolayer self-assembly of thiol appended fullerenes and fullerene–ferrocene dyads on gold electrode

Abstract A one step synthetic procedure for thiol appended fullerenes and fullerene–ferrocene dyads as well as formation and electrochemical characterization of self-assembled monolayers on gold electrode is reported.
Gastric Bypass Surgeries in New Hampshire, 1996-2007

Introduction Obesity is a national epidemic. Gastric bypass surgery may be the only option that provides significant long-term weight loss for people who are morbidly obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥40 kg/m2) or for people who have a BMI of 35 or higher and have an obesity-related comorbidity. The objective of this study was to assess trends in gastric bypass surgery in New Hampshire.
Scanning force microscopy of KI exposed to exciton-producing UV light

Abstract Potassium iodide has been exposed to ultraviolet light while on a scanning force microscope stage, both by retracting the tip a few μm during exposure and by continuous in situ exposure while imaging. Previous studies are extended to significantly lower ambient humidity in this work, and the introduction of UV light under the cantilever is examined.
Performance of the Chronically Hypoxic Young Rabbit Heart

Hearts isolated from 30 rabbits, raised from birth to ~5 weeks of age under either hypoxic (FIO2, 0.10) or normoxic (FIO2, 0.21) conditions, underwent retrograde aortic perfusion using a nonrecirculating, well-oxygenated crystalloid solution. The left ventricular end diastolic pressure was initially set at ~5 mmHg. Aerobic performance was studied by measuring peak systolic pressure (PSP), coronary flow, glucose oxidation, and oxygen consumption. Anaerobic function was assessed by determining time for the onset of contracture (TOC) in the presence of zero coronary flow. Hypoxic vs normoxic hearts (mean ± SEM): heart rate, 197 ± 6 vs 190 ± 5 beats per minute; PSP, 136 ± 4* vs 108 ± 4 mmHg; (+) dP/dtmax, 2294 ± 125* vs 1549 ± 144 mmHg/sec; relaxation time constant (Tau), 26.9 ± 1.1* vs 41.6 ± 4.8 msec; (−) dP/dtmax, 1422 ± 43* vs 1001 ± 63 mmHg/sec; coronary flow, 86.3 ± 4.2* vs 59.9 ± 2.9 ml/min/gdry; glucose oxidation, 3511 ± 118* vs 2979 ± 233 nmol/min/gdry; oxygen consumption, 28.2 ± 1.4* vs 22.7 ± 1.4 µmol/min/gdry; and TOC, 11.8 ± 1.2* vs 22.9 ± 2.2 min (*p < 0.05). Hearts isolated from young rabbits, exposed to hypoxia from birth, exhibited enhanced ventricular systolic and diastolic mechanical function, elevated coronary flow, retained capacity for aerobic metabolism, and a shorter TOC compared to their normoxic counterparts.
Root coverage using acellular dermal matrix and comparing a coronally positioned tunnel to a coronally positioned flap approach

Background: The primary aim of this randomized, controlled, masked clinical trial was to compare the percentage of root coverage obtained with a coronally positioned flap plus acellular dermal matrix (ADM) allograft to that of a tunnel technique plus ADM 4 months post-surgically.Methods: Twenty-four subjects with one site with ≥3 mm Miller Class I or II recession were treated and followed for 4 months. Twelve patients received a coronally positioned flap plus ADM and were considered the positive control group (CPF). The test group consisted of 12 subjects treated with a coronally positioned tunnel technique plus ADM (TUN). Subjects were randomly selected by a coin toss to receive the test or control treatment.Results: The mean facial recession defect at the initial examination for the TUN group was 3.1 ± 0.3 mm; this was reduced to 0.7 ± 0.9 mm at the 4-month examination for a gain of 2.4 ± 1.0 mm or 78% defect coverage (P <0.05). The mean facial recession defect at the initial examination for the CPF gro...
Performance of a North American Field Population and a Laboratory Colony of the Potato Tuberworm, Phthorimaea operculella, on Foliage of Resistant and Susceptible Potato Clones

Foliar resistance of two potato clones was tested against a Columbia Basin field population (CBFP) and a Colorado laboratory colony (COLC) of the potato tuberworm, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae). The first clone was a cross of a cultivated potato, Solanum tuberosum L. (Solanales: Solanaceae), and a wild potato, Solanum berthaultii Hawkes (Q 174-2); the second clone was cv. Allegany, S. tuberosum L.. In no-choice assays, defoliation by P. operculella larvae of COLC and CBFP did not differ on Allegany and Q174-2. Larval weight and production of COLC and CBFP colonies were similarly reduced on Q174-2 compared to cv. Allegany, although larval weights and production of the CBFP population were slightly less affected by the host. Larval production by the COLC on Allegany was greater than that on Q174-2, while that of the CBFP on Allegany and Q174-2 did not differ. However, production of P. operculella larvae by the CBFP on Q174-2 during no-choice assays was greater than that in choice tests, indicating reduced host preference. Most of the larvae recovered from either host were fourth instars, followed by third instars. Although the levels of resistance expressed by Q174-2 potato clone to the two P. operculella populations differed in magnitude, nearly all of P. operculella performance criteria measured in this study were adversely affected by Q174-2 foliage compared to the commercial potato cultivar, cv. Allegany.
Role for Ion Transport in Porcine Vocal Fold Epithelial Defense to Acid Challenge

Objective. The vocal fold epithelium is routinely exposed to gastric contents, including acid and pepsin, during laryngopharyngeal reflux events. The epithelium may possess intrinsic defenses to reflux. The first objective of the current study was to examine whether vocal fold epithelial ion transport is one potential mechanism of defense to gastric contents. The second objective was to determine whether ion transport in response to gastric contents is associated with the secretion of bicarbonate.Study Design. Prospective design in excised porcine larynges.Setting. Laboratory.Subjects and Methods. Porcine vocal folds (N = 56) were exposed on the luminal surface to acid, pepsin, or sham challenges. Ion transport at baseline and following challenge exposure was measured using electrophysiological techniques. To examine specific ion transport mechanisms, vocal folds were pretreated with either a sodium channel blocker or bicarbonate channel blocker.Results. Within 60 seconds of acid but not pepsin exposure, ...
A Single Dose of Any of Four Different Live Attenuated Tetravalent Dengue Vaccines Is Safe and Immunogenic in Flavivirus-naive Adults: A Randomized, Double-blind Clinical Trial

Background. Dengue virus (DENV) causes hundreds of millions of infections annually. Four dengue serotypes exist, and previous infection with one serotype increases the likelihood of severe disease with a second, heterotypic DENV infection. Methods. In a randomized, placebo-controlled study, the safety and immunogenicity of 4 different admixtures of a live attenuated tetravalent (LATV) dengue vaccine were evaluated in 113 flavivirus-naive adults. Serum neutralizing antibody levels to all 4 dengue viruses were measured on days 0, 28, 42, and 180. Results. A single dose of each LATV admixture induced a trivalent or better neutralizing antibody response in 75%–90% of vaccinees. There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse events between vaccinees and placebo-recipients other than rash. A trivalent or better response correlated with rash and with non-black race (P< .0001). Black race was significantly associated with a reduced incidence of vaccine viremia. Conclusions. TV003 induced a trivalent or greater antibody response in 90% of flavivirus-naive vaccinees and is a promising candidate for the prevention of dengue. Race was identified as a factor influencing the infectivity of the LATV viruses, reflecting observations of the effect of race on disease severity in natural dengue infection. Clinical Trials Registration. NCT01072786.
Interceptions of Anthocoridae, Lasiochilidae, and Lyctocoridae at the Miami Plant Inspection Station (Hemiptera: Heteroptera)

Specimens of Anthocoridae, Lyctocoridae, and Lasiochilidae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) intercepted at various ports-of-entry and housed at the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS) Miami Plant Inspection Station (Miami, FL) were examined and identified to species or genus. The collection comprised 127 specimens intercepted primarily at the Miami Inspection Station. Specimens were distributed among 14 genera and 26 identified species in 3 families: Anthocoridae (99 specimens), Lyctocoridae (9 specimens), and Lasiochilidae (19 specimens). Seventy-eight of the 127 specimens could be identified to species. The remaining 49 specimens were identified to genus, except for 2 specimens that could not be identified below tribal level. For each identified species, we provide brief descriptions of habitat and prey preferences (where known), and a summary of currently known geographic range. Fifty-six of the 127 specimens were of a single genus: Orius Wolff, 1811 (Anthocoridae: Oriini). The specimens of Orius comprised at least 9 different species; 17 specimens could not be identified to species. The 127 specimens were intercepted on a variety of commodities, including ornamental plants, cut flowers, bouquets, agricultural produce, ceramic tiles, and wood products. Fourteen of the identified species do not currently occur in the continental U.S.; moreover, the 49 specimens that we could identify only to genus very likely also are of species not currently established in the continental U.S. The majority of intercepted specimens (93 of 127) arrived on shipments from the Neotropics and Europe. Specimens of Lasiochilidae and Scolopini (Anthocoridae) were entirely from shipments arriving from the Neotropical region. Specimens of Orius were intercepted on shipments from the Neotropics, Mexico, Europe, and Sub-Saharan Africa. Finally, 10 species were intercepted on shipments arriving from countries not previously listed as being part of their known geographic ranges. One Old World species, Cardiastethus affinis Poppius, 1909, known previously only from East Africa and India, was intercepted in 2 separate shipments arriving from Central America and the West Indies.
Sensing and describing 3-D structure

Discovering the three dimensional structure of an object is important for a variety of robot tasks. Single sensor systems such as machine vision systems cannot reliably compute three dimensional structure in unconstrained environments. Active, exploratory tactile sensing can be used to complement passive stereo vision data to derive robust surface and feature descriptions of objects. The control for tactile sensing is provided by the vision system which provides regions of interest that the tactile system can explore. The descriptions of surfaces and features are accurate and can be used in a later matching phase against a model data base of objects to identify the object and its position and orientation in space.
A dual frequency circularly polarized antenna design using a combination of DRA and microstrip patch

In this paper, we present a novel dual frequency circularly polarized antenna concept, utilizing a cylindrical dielectric resonator and a microstrip patch. we describe a stacked configuration of a dielectric resonator antenna on a microstrip patch for dual frequency operation. A circular polarization is obtained by utilizing four coax feeds in phase quadrature. A numerical simulation of the radiation characteristic and return loss of the antenna has been performed. This configuration is found to exhibit a wide axial ratio beamwidth.
The dynamics of vortex streets in channels

We develop a model to numerically study the dynamics of vortex streets in channel flows. Previous work has studied the vortex wakes of specific vortex generators. Here, we study a wide range of vortex wakes including regular and reverse von Karman streets with various strengths, geometries, and Reynolds numbers (Re) by applying a smoothed von Karman street as an inflow condition. We find that the spatial structure of the inflow vortex street is maintained for the reverse von Karman street and altered for the regular street. For regular streets, we identify a transition to asymmetric dynamics which happens when Re increases, or vortices are stronger, or vortex streets are compressed horizontally or extended vertically. We also determine the effects of these parameters on vortex street inversion.
Effect of vitamin B6 deficiency on leucine transaminase activity in chick tissue.

To test the effect of vitamin B6 deficiency on levels of leucine trans- aminase activity in various tissues of the chick, 1-day-oldmale chicks were reared on a purified diet supplemented with zero or 1.2mg pyridoxine-HCl/100 g diet. After 8 days, chicks fed the deficient diet showed evidence of severe vitamin BÂ« depletion: anorexia, retarded growth, ataxia, hyperactivity and convulsions. Leucine transaminase activity was significantly decreased in kidney of chicks fed the deficient diet for 1.5 days. In liver and heart, significant decreases in leucine transaminase activity were detected after 4 days; in brain, after 9 days. No depression in leucine transaminase activity occurred in pair-fed controls. Pyridoxal phosphate added to enzyme reaction mixtures stimulated activity, but it did not restore leucine transaminase activity in homogenates from deficient tissue to control levels.
Trench isolation step-induced (TRISI) narrow width effect on MOSFET

We report a new narrow-width effect that manifests as an increase in threshold voltage V/sub th/ and in its standard deviation /spl sigma//sub Vth/ as the width W of a MOSFET is reduced to be comparable to the trench isolation step height and the gate polysilicon thickness. At such small W the conformal deposition of polysilicon across the step between the active and isolation regions induces the polysilicon gate to be thicker over the active region. This increased thickness is shown to increase the poly depletion effect causing V/sub th/ shift, a higher /spl sigma//sub Vth/, and higher Vth mismatch. Thus, attention to this detrimental trench isolation step-induced (TRISI) narrow width effect is essential for scaled isolation design.
Snubbing and bundling effects on multiple crack spacing of discontinuous random fiber-reinforced brittle matrix composites

Multiple cracking due to pseudo strain–hardening of fiber-reinforced brittle matrix composites contributes significantly to enhanced composite strain capacity as well as toughness. This unique phenomenon is true for both continuous aligned and discontinuous random fiber composites. Theoretical formulation of multiple crack spacing is reviewed in this paper. In particular, a snubbing effect of fiber pullout and a bundling effect of fiber strands on crack spacing are discussed. Taking account of these effects, expressed via the snubbing coefficient, f, and effective bond strength, τeff, a better spacing prediction has been obtained for a discontinuous random glass-strand-reinforced cement composite.
Somatic Cell-Like Features of Cloned Mouse Embryos Prepared with Cultured Myoblast Nuclei

Cloning by somatic cell nuclear transfer requires silencing of the donor cell gene expression program and the initiation of the embryonic gene expression program (nuclear reprogramming). Failure to silence the donor cell program could lead to altered embryonic phenotypes. Cloned mouse embryos produced using myoblast nuclei fail to thrive in standard embryo culture media but flourish in somatic cell culture media favored by the donor myoblasts themselves, forming blastocysts at a significant rate, with robust morphologies, high total cell number, and a normal allocation of cells to the inner cell mass in most embryos. Myoblast cloned embryos continue expressing the GLUT4 glucose transporter, which is typically expressed in muscle but not in preimplantation stage embryos. Myoblast clones also exhibit precocious enrichment of GLUT1 at the cell surface. Both myoblast and cumulus cell cloned embryos exhibit enhanced rates of glucose uptake. These observations indicate that silencing of the donor cell genome during cloning either is incomplete or occurs progressively over the course of preimplantation development. As a result, cloned embryos initially exhibit many somatic cell-like characteristics. Tetraploid constructs, which possess a transplanted somatic cell genome plus the oocyte-derived chromosomes, exhibit a more embryonic-like pattern of gene expression and culture preference. We conclude that preimplantation stage cloned embryos have profoundly altered characteristics that are donor cell type specific and that exposure of cloned embryos to standard embryo culture conditions may lead to disruptions in basic homeostasis and inhibition of a range of essential processes including further nuclear reprogramming, contributing to cloned embryo demise.
College Students' Reasons for Concealing Suicidal Ideation.

Self-reported reasons for concealing suicidal ideation were explored using data from a national survey of undergraduate and graduate students: 558 students indicated that they seriously considered attempting suicide during the previous year and did not tell anyone about their suicidal thoughts. Content analysis of students' qualitative responses to the question “Why did you choose not to tell anyone about these thoughts?” generated nine reasons: (a) perceived low risk, (b) concern for others, (c) dispositional privacy, (d) pointlessness of help-seeking, (e) others' negative reactions, (f) personal negative reactions, (g) repercussions, (h) interference, and (i) perceived isolation. Implications for campus suicide prevention are discussed.
Enhanced Blood Conservation and Improved Clinical Outcome After Valve Surgery Using Heparin‐Bonded Cardiopulmonary Bypass Circuits

BACKGROUND Recently, heparin-bonded (HBC) cardiopulmonary bypass circuits (CPB) were formed to be associated with improved outcome after coronary artery bypass grafting. There are very few reports on the efficacy and safety of these circuits in valve surgery. METHODS A retrospective cohort study of all patient populations undergoing first time valve surgery from 1992 to 1995 in a tertiary teaching hospital. Outcomes of 120 patients undergoing valve surgery using HBC and lower anticoagulation HBC were compared to 232 patients treated with conventional circuits and full heparinization (nonheparin-bonded-circuit [NHBC]). RESULTS Postoperative 24-hour chest tube drainage (558 +/- 466 mL vs 1054 +/- 911 mL, p < 0.00001), and reoperation for bleeding (2.5% vs 8.2%, p = 0.04) were lower in the HBC group. HBC patients required significantly less transfusions (total donor exposure of 6.9 +/- 13.0 units vs 18.6 +/- 26.2 units, p < 0.00001). Multiple linear regression analysis identified CPB time as a predictor of increased homologous blood transfusions, and the use of HBC, a large body surface area, and elective procedure as predictors of decreased transfusions. Perioperative mortality was similar (HBC 2.5%, NHBC 4.7%, p = 0.24). Overall complications were lower in the HBC group (42% vs 56.2%, p = 0.02). Perioperative myocardial infarction (0.8% vs 1.3%, p = 0.58) and cerebrovascular accident (3.3% vs 3.9%, p = 0.53) were similar. Two (1.7%) HBC patients had valve re-replacement compared to none in the NHBC (p = 0.22). Multiple logistic regression model revealed that age and CPB time were associated with increased complications, and the use of HBC with reduced complications. CONCLUSION Use of HBCs with lower anticoagulation in valve surgery resulted in a significant reduction of transfusion requirements and improved clinical outcome. Because of a potential for early mechanical valve thrombosis, until further data is available, conventional levels of systemic anticoagulation should be achieved when using HBC in valve surgery.
Accident Society: Fiction, Collectivity, and the Production of Chance. Jason Puskar. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press, 2012.

Accident Society: Fiction, Collectivity, and the Production of Chance Jason Puskar. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press, 2012.In Accident Society, a study of the role of literature in the production of chance, Jason Puskar argues that writers at the turn of the twentieth century craft chance through narratives of spontaneous violence. By doing so, these writers influence a wide audience's conception of certain injuries as accidents free from fault and blame.Puskar's work is situated within a larger context of literature on the culture of chance, but previous scholarship focuses primarily on gambling. Accident Society takes the reader into new territory, including an examination of what Puskar calls "chance collectivity," which opens up "new opportunities for fashioning systems of social and material interdependence" for a divided country (3). The chapters are organized into case studies that explore the connections between American fiction and assorted cultures of chance spanning the time period between Reconstruction and the New Deal. Puskar analyzes fiction that shaped the modern understanding of accidents and advanced reform.The definitions of key terms that Puskar establishes are strong points of the book because they explore the etymology of words like chance, accident, mishap, hapless, and haphazard, which emphasize the decoupling of action from agency. These definitions serve as a connecting force between the various types of accidents and the literary examples that the book considers. Puskar also clearly explains how chance "creates dynamic instabilities" and how realist fiction, in particular, conceals or obscures causal relations (8). In the introduction, Puskar uses the Chicago fire of 1871 and the resulting legend of the O'Leary cow accident as an example of America's first narrative of chance collectivity to show how it "complicates and obscures issues of responsibility" and "offered a new rationale for social solidarity in the aftermath of the deliberate violence of the Civil War" (14). The term "production of chance" comes from John Dewey's analysis of chance and language, which Puskar builds upon by categorizing chance as an abstract concept that is crafted through language. Accident Society therefore focuses on the "popular consciousness of chance" rather than mathematical or statistical methods (25).Chapter 1 examines the ways in which William Dean Howells endorses chance in his fiction, through the institution of modern insurance, as a mode of interdependence. Puskar skillfully grounds his literary analysis in a discussion of the history of insurance and its links to periodicals and publishing which contributed to the creation of a culture of accidents. …
Neural Basis for the Hyperalgesic Action of Cholecystokinin in the Rostral Ventromedial Medulla

The analgesic actions of opioids can be modified by endogenous “anti-opioid” peptides, among them cholecystokinin (CCK). CCK is now thought to have a broader, pronociceptive role, and contributes t...
Testing the credit view with pooled data: dynamic links among state bank health, investment-oriented bank loans, and economic performance

This paper focuses on the “credit view” theory at the state level, which suggests that state-level banking sector health influences state-level real economic performance. Specifically, we extend typical analysis of the credit view theory, applying relevant state-level economic variables to consider whether the health of a state’s banking system affects capital investment loans and, in turn, whether growth of these loans affects a state’s economic performance. We develop a two-equation state-level model, use more refined measures of capital investment loans, and apply advanced dynamic pooled estimators to our panel of state data for the 1984–1993 period. Regression results support dynamic links among state bank health, state investment-oriented bank loans, and state economic performance, thus supporting existence of a state-level credit channel effect.
Signaling to the Nucleus with a Loaded GUN

Plant chloroplasts respond to environmental and developmental stress through a signaling pathway that controls gene expression in the nucleus.
Complex-energy shell model description of alpha decay

In his pioneering work of alpha decay, Gamow assumed that the alpha particle formed inside the nucleus tunnels through the barrier of the alpha-daughter potential. The corresponding metastable state can be viewed as a complex-energy solution of the time-independent Schrodinger equation with the outgoing boundary condition. The formation of the alpha cluster, missing in the original Gamow formulation, can be described within the R-matrix theory in terms of the formation amplitude. In this work, the alpha decay process is described by computing the formation amplitude and barrier penetrability in a large complex-energy configuration space spanned by the complexenergy eigenstates of the finite Woods-Saxon (WS) potential. The proper normalization of the decay channel is essential as it strongly modifies the alpha-decay spectroscopic factor. The test calculations are carried out for the 212Po alpha decay.
Case Report: Relapsing, Bacteremic Klebsiella Pneumoniae Meningitis in an Aids Patient

ABSTRACT The acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is manifested by severe immunologic (predominately T-lymphocyte) abnormalities and opportunistic infections. Central nervous System (CNS) infections are frequent. Pathogens causing CNS infections in AIDS patients include parasites, fungi, and viruses and are similar to tliose reported in other states of impaired cell mediated immunity (CMI). A case of relapsing, bacteremic Klebsiella pneumoniae meningitis in an AIDS patient is presented.
Comparison of n- and p-Type InGaAs/InP Quantum Well Infrared Photodetectors

Over an order of magnitude reduction in dark current was observed for gas-source molecular beam epitaxially (GSMBE) grown, lattice-matched n- and p-type InGaAs/InP quantum-well infrared photodetectors (QWIPs). Peak spectral response at 8.93 and 4.55 µm for n- and p-type QWIPs, respectively, open the possibility of dual-band monolithic integration under identical GSMBE growth conditions.
Migration of mouse lymphocytes in vitro from capillary tube cultures.

SummaryCell suspensions from mouse lymphoid organs, including the spleen, deep and superficial lymph nodes, bone marrow, and thymus, and from induced peritoneal exudates, were compared as regards their ability to migrate from capillary tubes under conditions of tissue cultures. Cells from all lymphoid tissues migrated rapidly in vitro. Purified lymphocyte suspensions prepared by glass bead column or glass plate adsorption procedures containing few, if any, macrophages migrated just as well as unfractionated cell suspensions. The utilization of lymphocytes for migration procedures in vitro for various biologic, immunologic, and physiologic studies are discussed.We are grateful to Dr. Maurice Landy, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Md., for his helpful discussion and advice during the course of this study, as well as his excellent assistance in the preparation of this manuscript.
Metabolic and phenotypic adaptations of diaphragm muscle fibers with inactivation.

Zhan, Wen-Zhi, Hirofumi Miyata, Y. S. Prakash, and Gary C. Sieck. Metabolic and phenotypic adaptations of diaphragm muscle fibers with inactivation. J. Appl. Physiol. 82(4):1145–1153, 1997.—We hypo...
P-48 Can or should patients with questionable capacity do basic advance care planning while hospitalised?: A path forward

Background Only mentally capable persons can complete advance directives (ADs). When persons without ADs are hospitalised and are thought to have questionable capacity, care providers may not trust the ability of those patients to make their own treatment decisions. Such situations can frustrate treatment decision-making and cause moral distressing situations. Some hospitalised patients with questionable capacity, however, may be able to participate in some basic advance care planning (ACP). This is because the skills necessary to do ACP vary based the preferences being discussed and the level of cognitive functioning needed to make certain decisions. As Appelbaum (2007) notes there are no formal practice guidelines for assessing a person’s capacity, and may require an interprofessional approach. Since patients should be permitted to participate with decision-making to the extent possible, hospitalised patients with questionable capacity should not automatically be disqualified from doing basic ACP in hospital settings. Aim This presentation identifies and describes a viable approach that clinicians can use in hospital settings to help assess patients with questionable capacity, thereby providing a way for patients to do basic ACP in hospital settings while engaging in treatment decision-making to the greatest extent possible. Methods A process that utilises interprofessional collaboration will be detailed toward assessing the mental functioning of hospitalised patients with questionable capacity. Several cases using this method will be discussed. Results N/A Discussion N/A Conclusion Assisting hospitalised patients with questionable capacity do ACP is complicated. Developing a systematic approach toward capacity assessment helps distinguish when patients should and should not perform basic ACP in hospital settings.
CHAPTER 30 – Osteoporosis and Fragility Fractures in the Elderly

A variety of pathophysiological mechanisms lead to reduced bone strength and an increased risk of fracture in the elderly. Osteoporosis and fractures affect a substantial proportion of the older population in the United States and other Western nations. Older Caucasian women are at greatest risk, but older Caucasian men and Asian, Hispanic, and older African American women are also frequently affected. Fractures occur at many diverse skeletal sites in the elderly. Although the classical osteoporotic fracture sites of hip, spine, wrist, and proximal humerus account for about half of fractures and more than two-thirds of the medical costs of osteoporosis in the elderly, fractures at other skeletal sites make a substantial contribution to the overall burden of the disease. The lifetime risk of having any type of fracture for a 50-year-old white woman is about 70%. A better understanding of the factors contributing to the risk of these diverse fractures in the elderly is needed to guide the search for their causes and new approaches to prevention.
3D-tissue engineered bone marrow as predictive tool for personalized therapy in multiple myeloma

M myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematological malignancy and represents approximately 20% of deaths from hematological malignancies. Despite the success of numerous contemporary therapies to eradicate MM in vitro and in animal models, more than 90% of MM patients develop resistance to therapy and relapse. The discrepancy between drug efficacy in laboratory settings and the dissatisfactory clinical outcomes can be attributed to limitations of the classic drug development models, including the neglect of the interaction of tumor cells with other components of the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment; lack of tri-dimensional (3D) aspects of the BM niche (hypoxia and drug-gradient); and relying on a limited number of cell lines and do not reflect the enormous heterogeneity between individual patients. In our study, we produced a 3D-tissue engineered in vitro model of BM (3DTEBM) in MM, including MM cells, stromal cells, endothelial cells and extracellular matrix. All cells used for one 3DTEBM are isolated from a BM aspirate from individual MM patient. The 3D scaffold to accommodate the cells was produced by biological cross-linking of the BM supernatant of the same individual MM patient. We found that, in the 3DTEBM, MM cells proliferated more and showed significantly more drug resistance compared to classic tissue cultures. This 3DTEBM is currently investigated to predict the drug-response in MM patients, in which, we develop 3DTEBM for individual patients to test their response to therapy in vitro and correlate our findings with clinical response; to develop personalized therapeutic strategies for each individual MM patients.
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma across the pediatric and adolescent and young adult age spectrum

The non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHLs) occurring in children and adolescents and young adults (AYA) are characterized by various age-related differences in tumor biology and survival. Children generally present with high-grade lymphomas, such as Burkitt lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, lymphoblastic lymphoma, and anaplastic large cell lymphoma, whereas low-grade histologic subtypes, such as follicular lymphoma, occur more frequently with increasing age. Treatment outcome for children with NHL is generally superior to that observed in adults. Factors contributing to this discrepancy include psychosocial factors, patient factors, and differences in tumor biology and therapy. These factors will be reviewed, with particular attention to the biological features of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and anaplastic large cell lymphoma and corresponding therapeutic challenges. Novel targeting agents have been developed, which have been shown to be active in some patients. There is clearly a need for treatment protocols with eligibility criteria that cover the full span of the pediatric and AYA age range and that incorporate detailed molecular characterization of the tumors.
Relationship between proxies for Type II fiber type and resting blood pressure in Division I American Football Athletes.

Objective: The risk for cardiovascular disease is well-documented. Perhaps surprisingly, specific athletic populations, including American football players, exhibit increased risk for cardiovascular disease as presented by elevated blood pressure. There is evidence suggesting a link between muscle fiber type distribution and resting blood pressure. Acknowledging this association, it becomes important to clarify an individualâ€™s risk for developing cardiovascular disease later in adulthood. The purpose of this study was to assess football performance measuresâ€”in particular proxies for muscular powerâ€”and their effect on resting blood pressure in football athletes. Methods: A total of 80 collegiate-level football players participated in this study. Each participantâ€™s body fat %, body mass index, waist circumference, and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were measured. Participants performed one-repetition maximums of bench press, back squat, 40-yard dash, and vertical leap, and a power index (PI) defined as the product of vertical leap and mass. Linear regressions were run between body composition variables and performance measures for all players and a subset of skill players only. Results: The PI was found to be positively, significantly correlated with MAP in all players (r = 0.269; P = 0.035) and the skill players subset (r = 0.425; P = 0.004). Conclusion: The results of the present study indicate an association between muscle fiber type distribution, as indicated by muscular power capacity, and resting blood pressure.
US Healthcare Experiences of Hispanic Patients with Diabetes and Family Members: A Qualitative Analysis

Hispanics in the United States experience significant health disparities. Using focus groups conducted in Spanish, we explored the perspectives of 172 Hispanic adults regarding their healthcare experiences. Many participants were women (64.5%) and primarily from Mexico (80%). Four major qualitative themes emerged: (a) provide us with information, (b) want attentive and respectful relationships, (c) want better care, and (d) perceived discrimination. Suboptimal patient-provider interactions were described. Research is needed to explore interventions that address these issues. Incorporating person-centered care principles and practices such as clear and understandable communication, culturally competent care, and customer service skills may benefit provider interactions with Hispanics.
Tábory: The Sum of Their Fears

With the introduction of the Ausgleich, a new constitutional structure that favored the German and Hungarian political factions, the Czech nationalist politicians, operating through the pages of the periodical press, opened a series of massive open-air demonstrations known as Tabory. The fact that these demonstrations included hundreds of thousands of people paid purchase to the fears of the officials that the periodical press had attained a mass following not only in the provincial capital of Prague but throughout the province and beyond. Reform led to hopes raised and hopes dashed and, therefore, to an increasingly assertive and hostile Czech public sphere.
Man and Environmental Change in South America

A gaping hole at Chuquicamata, in the Atacama desert, provides impressive evidence of man’s efficiency in altering the face of the earth when he applies himself to mining the materials of the crust. I refer, of course, to the Anaconda open pit mine, from which more than 350 million cubic meters of rock have been removed since operations began in 1915. Less spectacular, perhaps, but certainly no less significant as to volume and value of the materials involved, is the stripping of topsoil from the lands of South America, by forces of nature which man has unleashed or aggravated.