cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Information-Theoretic Analysis of Three-Dimensional Molecular Integrated Circuits

For three-dimensional (3D) molecular integrated circuits (MICs), an information-theoretic model of signal processing is under developments in order. The objective is to estimate and examine the information-theoretic measures in order to perform optimization and carry out optimal design. Distinct information measures, such as entropy, capacity, complexity and other are analyzed. There is a need to derive baseline information estimates for 3DMICs to optimize molecular hardware and ensure a technology-centric co-design. This will allow us to approach fundamental limits and benchmarks. Three-dimensionalMICs are envisioned to implement datapath, memory and other subsystems. For information measures, different quantitative and qualitative estimates can be utilized. The information-theoretic analysis imposes significant challenges due to mathematical complexity and technology dependence. The information analysis to correctly compute switching functions and maximize the mutual information examining channel input and output can be performed. However, digital versus analog solutions, switching frequency, thresholds, switching energy, power losses and other characteristics depend on logic design as well as dynamic and steady-state characteristics of molecular devices. Hence, the information-theoretic analysis should integrate hardware, software and fabrication technology. It is shown that critical information measures depend on data structures, and, the information content of channels are technology-dependent. Different molecular gates, comprised from multi-terminal primitives (molecular electronic devices), can be used to implement neuronal hypercells ([unk]hypercells). The aggregated[unk]hypercells form 3DMICs. This paper focuses on further developments of molecular electronics and molecular signal processing platforms by utilizing quantifying and qualifying information measures and optimizing information estimates.
Public Perceptions of Tommy John Surgery

AbstractBackground: Reconstruction of the elbow ulnar collateral ligament, known as Tommy John surgery, is being performed with increasing frequency. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that the public's perception of Tommy John surgery may be incorrect with regard to the indications, operative technique, risks, recovery time, and benefits obtained from the procedure. Methods: A questionnaire was developed to measure an individual's perception of Tommy John surgery with regard to indications, operative technique, risks, recovery time, and overall benefits of the procedure. Questionnaires were given via a one-on-one interview or mailing after receiving prior consent. Questionnaires were completed by 189 players, 15 coaches, and 31 parents. Data were calculated and statistical analysis was performed. Results: Indications: Thirty percent of coaches, 37% of parents, 51% of high school athletes, and 26% of collegiate athletes believed that Tommy John surgery should be performed on players without elbow injury to enhan...
Deep ocean experience with acoustic current meters

As possible replacements for our venerable VACMs and VMCMs, we have been testing a number of modern current meters which are based on sound propagation principles, either travel time differences between transducers or Doppler frequency shift due to scattering from suspended particles. Comparisons with our traditional instruments, which have mechanical sensors, have produced more questions than answers and after four different experiments in the deep ocean near Bermuda, we are not yet able to provide definitive conclusions.
Some French Contributions to the Industrial Development of Germany, 1840–1870

Germany in the 1830's gave few if any indications of its great industrial potentialities. The population was overwhelmingly rural and agrarian; Berlin was the only city containing more than 100,000 inhabitants, and the great majority of “cities” (in the legal sense) numbered less than 10,000. Nonagricultural production was carried on for the most part in the home or in small shops employing the old handicraft techniques. The pattern of foreign trade was that which has since come to be associated with “underdeveloped” agrarian nations: exports of agricultural products (grain, wool) and the output of artisanal industries, imports of manufactured goods and exotic wares. In those industries that were to lead the way in Germany's industrialization there were as yet no signs of growth. The few spinning factories that were set up in the 1820's and 1830's employed mainly English and Alsatian machinery, and sometimes foreign capital as well. Coal production lagged behind that of tiny Belgium, and was no greater than that of mineral-poor France. The small, dispersed iron industry was still almost universally conducted with the ancient charcoal technique, and the famed chemical industry was still to be born. The Zollverein was just beginning its great work of economic unification; the effective realization of its promise had to await more adequate means of transportation and financial institutions to provide capital; but by 1840 there were only a few short, isolated lines of railway and no modern credit facilities.
Induction of protection against vaginal shedding and infertility by a recombinant Chlamydia vaccine

A vaccine formulated with the Chlamydia muridarum recombinant major outer membrane protein, plus the adjuvants CpG and Montanide, was tested for its ability to protect BALB/c mice against a vaginal challenge. Mice were immunized by mucosal [intravaginal (i.vag.) plus colonic (col.), or intranasal (i.n.) plus sublingual (s.l.)], or systemic [intramuscular (i.m.) plus subcutaneous (s.c.)] routes, and a combination of mucosal priming and systemic boosting routes. A negative control group was vaccinated with the Neisseria gonorrhoeae porin B (Ng-rPorB) and a positive control group was inoculated in the nares with live Chlamydia. The strongest Chlamydia-specific humoral and cell-mediated immune responses were observed in the groups immunized by a combination of mucosal and systemic routes. Following the vaginal challenge, groups immunized using mucosal priming followed by systemic immunization had a significant decrease in the number of mice with positive vaginal cultures. For example, of the mice immunized i.n./s.l.+i.m./s.c., 24% had positive cultures during the six weeks of the experiment versus 69% for the negative control group immunized with Ng-rPorB (P 0.05). These results show the importance of the schedule and routes of vaccination and represent the first study to show protection against infertility by a Chlamydia recombinant subunit vaccine.
Immunohistochemical Expression of CA 125 in Endometrial Adenocarcinoma: Correlation of Antigen Expression with Metastatic Potential

Immunohistochemical localization of CA 125 using murine monoclonal antibody OC 125 was performed on fresh frozen tissue from 44 endometrial adenocarcinomas and 26 benign endometria. Immunohistochemical evaluation incorporated both intensity and distribution of staining (CA 125 HSCORE). Thirty-seven cancers (84%) and 23 benign endometria (88%) expressed immunohistochemically detectable CA 125. Staining was confined to epithelial cells and was present both on the cell membrane and in the cytoplasm. Among the 44 endometrial cancers, CA 125 HSCORE did not correlate with histological grade, depth of myometrial invasion or estrogen/progesterone receptor levels. Following surgical staging, 13 patients (30%) were found to have extrauterine metastatic disease. The median CA 125 HSCORE of patients with metastatic disease (2.25) was significantly higher than that of patients with disease confined to the uterus (0.6) ( P < 0.001). In addition, high CA 125 HSCORE also correlated with the presence of lymph node metastasis ( P <0.001). The results of this study suggest that high CA 125 expression by endometrial adenocarcinomas is associated with increased metastatic potential.
Barbiturates for the treatment of intracranial hypertension after traumatic brain injury

In their article on the use of barbiturates for the treatment of intracranial hypertension after traumatic brain injury, Perez-Barcena and colleagues conclude that thiopental was more effective than pentobarbital in decreasing intracranial pressure. Here we discuss the limitations of this study and review areas of controversy surrounding barbiturate use in neurocritical care.
Imitation and mechanisms of joint attention: a developmental structure for building social skills on a humanoid robot

Adults are extremely adept at recognizing social cues, such as eye direction or pointing gestures, that establish the basis of joint attention. These skills serve as the developmental basis for more complex forms of metaphor and analogy by allowing an infant to ground shared experiences and by assisting in the development of more complex communication skills. In this chapter, we review some of the evidence for the developmental course of these joint attention skills from developmental psychology, from disorders of social development such as autism, and from the evolutionary development of these social skills. We also describe an on-going research program aimed at testing existing models of joint attention development by building a human-like robot which communicates naturally with humans using joint attention. Our group has constructed an upper-torso humanoid robot, called Cog, in part to investigate how to build intelligent robotic systems by following a developmental progression of skills similar to that observed in human development. Just as a child learns social skills and conventions through interactions with its parents, our robot will learn to interact with people using natural social communication. We further consider the critical role that imitation plays in bootstrapping a system from simple visual behaviors to more complex social skills. We will present data from a face and eye finding system that serves as the basis of this developmental chain, and an example of how this system can imitate the head movements of an individual.
Methods for Laboratory Investigation of Truck and Bus Driver Postures

Few studies have systematically examined the effects of truck and bus workstation geometry on driver posture and position. This paper presents methods for determining drivers’ postural responses and preferred component locations using a reconfigurable vehicle mockup. Body landmark locations recorded using a three-dimensional digitizer are used to compute a skeletal-linkage representation of the drivers’ posture. A sequential adjustment procedure is used to determine the preferred positions and orientations of key components, including the seat, steering wheel, and pedals. Data gathered using these methods will be used to create new design tools for trucks and buses, including models of driverselected seat position, eye location, and needed component adjustment ranges. The results will also be used to create accurate posture-prediction models for use with human modeling software.
FPGA-based autonomous vehicle competitions in a capstone design course

Robotic vehicle designs and competitions often serve as the basis for undergraduate senior capstone design courses in electrical and computer engineering. Such competitions are well suited to senior level design as they require the design and integration of a number of components. Also, design competition specifications can easily be formulated that require significant design without imposing a particular solution on the student design team. This paper describes the goals, content and experiences of a one semester capstone design course in which students design, implement and test an FPGA-based robotic vehicle capable of performing a number of competition specific tasks.
The effects of field of view size on the control of roll motion

Human operator characteristics were measured during a fixed-base visual tracking task where the field of view (FOV) varied from 10 degrees to 120 degrees . Using the critical tracking (CT) task, five subjects were tested at 10 degrees , 20 degrees , 40 degrees , 80 degrees , and 120 degrees FOV. The measured effective time delay declined exponentially as the FOV increased. The corresponding root-mean-squared (RMS) error followed a U-shaped curve with the majority of the RMS reduction at 40 degrees FOV. A second experiment, in which two subjects were tested at 10 degrees , 40 degrees , and 120 degrees FOV, used a time-invariant plant to allow the measurement of human describing-function parameters. The crossover frequency, increased at least 5% and the RMS error dropped by at least 20% at a FOV of 40 degrees or 120 degrees compared to 10 degrees . The results from these two experiments show that a FOV as small as 40 degrees can produce performance improvements of the same magnitude as a FOV as large as 120 degrees . In the final experiment, where only the central 10 degrees of the scene rotated, performance was unexpectedly best at 10 degrees and poorest at 40 degrees and 80 degrees . >
SERUM THYROID HORMONES CHANGES IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING CAESAREAN SECTION UNDER GENERAL OR REGIONAL ANAESTHESIA

The effects of anaesthesia on serum thyroid hormones were studied in 32 pregnant young women undergoing Caesarean section at term. Eighteen patients received general anaesthesia and 14 lumbar extradural blockade. Maternal serum concentrations of thyrotrophin (TSH), thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3) and reverse triiodothyronine (rT3) were measured using radioimmunoassay at 0, delivery and 24 h. There were no significant changes in TSH in the two groups. T4 concentrations decreased significantly at 24 h in the general anaesthesia group but regional anaesthesia produced a significant decrease only at the time of delivery. T3 concentrations decreased with both techniques. Reverse T3 increased markedly with general anaesthesia only at 24 h.
Head Start teachers' perceptions of children's eating behavior and weight status in the context of food scarcity.

Abstract Objective To describe Head Start teachers' perceptions of mealtime, feeding, and overweight risk in Head Start students. Design Qualitative focus group study. Setting Five Head Starts in a greater metropolitan area in the Northeast. Participants Thirty-five teachers in 5 focus groups. Intervention Two experienced focus group facilitators elicited comments from each group. Main Outcome Measure Identification of themes for future nutrition education programming. Analysis Participant comments were transcribed and common themes identified by 7 readers. Results Teachers felt (1) empowered to shape the content of children's diets; (2) that meals served at Head Start were chaotic; (3) uncertain how to address children's voracious appetites, since children often were from homes with limited food resources; (4) skeptical about the definition of overweight; (5) that children's eating behaviors and their weight status were not connected; and (6) uncomfortable addressing overweight with students' families. Conclusions and Implications Teachers' skepticism about overweight, uncertainty around managing the seemingly voracious eating behavior of children perceived as hungry as a result of inadequate food at home, and discomfort in addressing overweight with families may all represent nutrition education opportunities. Tailoring prevention programs such that they evoke support and agreement from these teachers as well as harnessing strengths, such as teachers' confidence in shaping children's eating behaviors, will be important.
Associative memory via a sparse recovery model

An associative memory is a structure learned from a dataset M of vectors (signals) in a way such that, given a noisy version of one of the vectors as input, the nearest valid vector from M (nearest neighbor) is provided as output, preferably via a fast iterative algorithm. Traditionally, binary (or q-ary) Hopfield neural networks are used to model the above structure. In this paper, for the first time, we propose a model of associative memory based on sparse recovery of signals. Our basic premise is simple. For a dataset, we learn a set of linear constraints that every vector in the dataset must satisfy. Provided these linear constraints possess some special properties, it is possible to cast the task of finding nearest neighbor as a sparse recovery problem. Assuming generic random models for the dataset, we show that it is possible to store super-polynomial or exponential number of n-length vectors in a neural network of size O(n). Furthermore, given a noisy version of one of the stored vectors corrupted in near-linear number of coordinates, the vector can be correctly recalled using a neurally feasible algorithm.
Elliptic Curves and Modular Forms

We now describe basics of elliptic curves and modular curves in three steps: 1. as plane curves over a field; 2. as scheme/group functor over a ring; 3. modular forms as functorial rules on modular curves.
5.20 – Chemical Stability

Chemical stability tools are useful to medicinal chemists as part of the toolbox necessary for modern drug discovery. Lack of stability can complicate medicinal chemistry and biological testing. Specific reactions that lead to decomposition include hydrolysis and oxidation. These reactions are initiated by physicochemical factors such as pH, other components in the same solution (e.g., metals), enzymes, light, heat, humidity, and oxygen. Various potential stability issues can be rapidly screened for large numbers of compounds using high-throughput stability techniques. The investigation of specific decomposition mechanisms as causes of observed phenomena or inconsistent results may be pursued using diagnostic stability methods. Drug candidates are usually qualified for development by using in depth stability methods that examine various potential stability issues that might be encountered in development. Methods are discussed for each of these types of chemical stability assessment needs in medicinal chemistry.
Planting the right seeds

The cells of the gastrointestinal (GI) epithelium are ripe for reprogramming to create replacements for the insulin-secreting β cells lost in type 1 diabetes. For these cellular seeds to grow into a diabetes-fighting forest, the right cells must be planted. Ariyachet et al. discovered that it is
Ca2+ homeostasis modulation enhances the amenability of L444P glucosylcerebrosidase to proteostasis regulation in patient-derived fibroblasts.

Gaucher’s disease is caused by deficiency of lysosomal glucocerebrosidase (GC) activity and accumulation of GC substrate, glucosylceramide. A number of point mutations in GC encoding gene have been...
The Effect of Adenosine and Adenine Nucleotides on the Cyclic Adenosine 3',5'-Phosphate Content of Guinea Pig Cerebral Cortex Slices

The content cyclic adenosine 39,59-phosphate in guinea pig cerebral cortex slices increases 20-30-fold after a 5-min exposure to a medium containing 0.05 mM adenosine. A similar increase was observed upon exposure to adenine nucleotides. The effect appeared to be specific for adenine ribose monomers. Methylxanthines (0.5 mM) blocked the effect of adenosine, but the blockade could be surmounted by increasing the adenosine concentration. Mutual potentiation of effects was observed when norepinephrine or histamine was added together with adenosine. Nucleotidase activity was observed in slices and homogenates. While this may be related to the mechanism of the adenosine effect, a direct effect of adenosine on adenyl cyclase or cyclic 39,59-nucleotide phosphodiesterase could not be implicated in homogenates. Changes in the tissue compartmentation of adenine nucleotides probably play a major role in producing the previously observed increase of cyclic adenosine 39,59-phosphate during electrical stimulation of slices.
Ten Times More Microbial Cells than Body Cells in Humans

Science rights itself by critical reanalysis of facts. Most scientists are hypercritical and very resistant to new claims in the absence of unscrutinized data. But once in a while some fake “fact” gets into the literature that is difficult to expunge. A recent case in point: the frequent assertion that the number of cells in the human microbiota is ten times as numerous as the number of cells in the human body (J. Fox, Microbe, December 2013, p. 494; M. Pollan, New York Times Magazine, May 15, 2013; Science 342:1440, 2013; Cell Metab. 12:111, 2010). Let's think about it. The number of cells in the human microbiota is likely to be highly variable depending on nutritional input, body size, age, ethnicity, culture and environment. There could also be significant variability in body cell number among diverse humans in diverse environments and at different stages of life. Furthermore, it is difficult to determine the number of cells in the human body accurately. Finally, there is no a priori reason for thinking that the ratio of microbial to human cells is constant among humans or even for one individual in the course of a lifetime. Thus, the ratio of these two variable numbers is likely to be highly variable.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ON AN ISLAND COMMUNITY

The environmental impacts of coastal engineering projects generally affect island communities to a greater degree than they would affect continental land mass communities. This occurs because of the smaller land area; close interdependence and interaction of land and sea communities, both natural and human; and relatively small projects having relatively large overall impacts on island ecosystems. The natural flora and fauna of Pacific Islands have developed rather precariously unbalanced communities that are extremely fragile and susceptible to change, both natural and man induced. This susceptibility dictates that, where possible, man induced or proposed changes, such as coastal engineering projects, should be designed such that as little change as possible occurs to the natural environment. Additionally, the natural resources of island communities are generally limited and this too dictates that conservation practices be employed that assure the highest and best use of those limited resources. The purpose of this paper is to indicate the environmental effects of a major coastal engineering project on an island community. This will be accomplished by describing the environmental quality control monitoring program that has been performed as an integral part of the Honolulu International Airport (HIA) Reef Runway construction project on Oahu, Hawaii, and presenting the initial findings of that environmental monitoring program. The Honolulu International Airport reef runway planning and design began in earnest in 1968 and 1969 with hydrographic and topographic surveys, foundation investigations, two- and three-dimensional hydraulic model studies, and environmental studies that were conducted (J. K. K. Look, 1970; Berger, 1971; Sunn, et_ al_, 1969). These studies, and others, were utilized to determine the technical feasibility, and to gather the engineering and environmental data for final design and construction. The Reef Runway, located south of the HIA runway system on the fringing coral reef, seaward of Keehi Lagoon, in Mamala Bay, is 12,000 feet long and 200 feet wide. The runway and taxiway complex is protected from the sea by a 16,000-foot long protective structure constructed of rock and dollose (Figure 1).
Engineered cationic antimicrobial peptide (eCAP) prevents Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm growth on airway epithelial cells.

Objectives Chronic infections with the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa are responsible for the majority of the morbidity and mortality in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). While P. aeruginosa infections may initially be treated successfully with standard antibiotics, chronic infections typically arise as bacteria transition to a biofilm mode of growth and acquire remarkable antimicrobial resistance. To address the critical need for novel antimicrobial therapeutics that can effectively suppress chronic bacterial infections in challenging physiological environments, such as the CF lung, we have rationally designed a de novo engineered cationic antimicrobial peptide, the 24-residue WLBU2, with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity for pan-drug-resistant P. aeruginosa in liquid culture. In the current study, we tested the hypothesis that WLBU2 also prevents P. aeruginosa biofilm growth. Methods Using abiotic and biotic biofilm assays, co-culturing P. aeruginosa with polarized human airway epithelial cells, we examined the ability of WLBU2 to prevent biofilm biogenesis alone and in combination with currently used antibiotics. Results We observed a dose-dependent reduction in biofilm growth on an abiotic surface and in association with CF airway epithelial cells. WLBU2 prevented P. aeruginosa biofilm formation when co-cultured with mucus-producing primary human CF airway epithelial cells and using CF clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa, even at low pH and high salt conditions that mimic the CF airway. When used in combination, WLBU2 significantly increases killing by the commonly used antibiotics tobramycin, ciprofloxacin, ceftazidime and meropenem. Conclusions While other studies have demonstrated the ability of natural and synthetic antimicrobial peptides to prevent abiotic bacterial biofilm formation, the current studies for the first time demonstrate the effective peptide treatment of a biotic bacterial biofilm in a setting similar to the CF airway, and without negative effects on human airway epithelial cells, thus highlighting the unique potential of this engineered cationic antimicrobial peptide for treatment of human respiratory infections.
Toward the sociopolitical in science education

In this paper, we explore how Jacques Ranciere’s (The ignorant schoolmaster: five lessons in intellectual emancipation. Stanford University Press, Stanford, 1991) notions of radical equality and dissensus reveal horizons for activism and sociopolitical engagement in science education theory, research, and practice. Drawing on Rochelle Gutierrez’ (J Res Math Educ 44(1):37–68, 2013a. doi: 10.5951/jresematheduc.44.1.0037 ; J Urban Math Educ 6(2):7–19, b) “sociopolitical turn” for mathematics education, we identify how the field of science education can/is turning from more traditional notions of equity, achievement and access toward issues of systemic oppression, identity and power. Building on the conversation initiated by Lorraine Otoide who draws from French philosopher Jacques Ranciere to experiment with a pedagogy of radical equality, we posit that a sociopolitical turn in science education is not only imminent, but necessary to meet twenty-first century crises.
Effects of thirty and sixty minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise on postprandial lipemia and inflammation in overweight men: a randomized cross-over study

The transient rise in blood lipids following a high-fat meal (HFM), known as postprandial lipemia, is linked to systemic inflammation and cardiovascular disease, but can be blunted by exercise. However, minimal research has investigated the effects of realistic exercise bouts on postprandial lipemia and inflammation in at-risk individuals. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise lasting 30 or 60 min performed the evening before a HFM, on postprandial lipemia and inflammation in overweight, insufficiently active men. In this randomized-crossover study, twelve participants remained sedentary (CON), or performed a brisk walk on a treadmill at 60 % VO2peak for either 30 min (EX-30) or 60 min (EX-60), after which they consumed a small snack (270 kcal) to partially replace exercise energy expenditure. Following a 12-h overnight fast, participants consumed a standard HFM (1 g fat/kg; 1 g CHO/kg; 1117.8 ± 117.0 kcal). Blood draws were performed at baseline (pre-HFM) and 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h post-HFM to assess glucose, insulin, lipids, and systemic inflammation. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in fasting triglycerides between EX-60 (118.7 ± 68.3 mg/dL), CON (134.8 ± 66.2 mg/dL) or EX-30 (135.5 ± 85.4 mg/dL). There were no differences in peak, time-to-peak, total or incremental area-under-the-curve between trials for triglyceride response (p > 0.05). There was no significant main effect of time (p > 0.05) in IL-1ra, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10 or TNF-α from baseline to 8 h post-HFM in any trial. In summary, we found that in overweight, insufficiently active men, neither 30 nor 60 min of moderate-intensity exercise performed 12 h prior to a HFM attenuated postprandial lipemia or inflammation, which could potentially be explained by the partial caloric replacement of exercise energy expenditure.
NeurologicManifestations of Neglected Tropical Diseases (P4.295)

OBJECTIVE: To report the neurological manifestations of 17 diseases classified as neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) by the World Health Organization and determine the level of evidence for the impact of each on the nervous system and the efficacy of available therapies. BACKGROUND: NTDs disproportionately affect the world’s poorest populations. The London Declaration (2012) committed more than $785 million by over 20 international stakeholders including Ministries of Health, United Nations agencies, NGOs, and pharmaceutical companies, to combat 17 NTDs by 2020. The neurological aspects of most NTDs receive limited attention. DESIGN/METHODS: A systematic review was performed in PubMed (MedLine) for each NTD (by disease name and name of causative organism) and the following search terms: neurology, neurosurgery, brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerve, muscle, nervous system, neurologist, encephalitis, meningitis, encephalopathy, stroke, neuropathy, myopathy (1968-Sept. 2013). Level of evidence for symptoms and therapy was determined based on the Oxford Center for Evidence-based Medicine guidelines. RESULTS: Neurologic complications were reported by case report for five NTDs (Buruli ulcer, Dracunculiasis, Filiariasis, Soil-transmitted helminthes, and Trachoma), case series for one (Foodborne Trematodiasis) (Level 4), retrospective cohort study for six (Dengue, African Trypanosomiasis, Leishmaniasis, Leprosy, Onchocerciasis, Schistosomiasis) (Level 2b-3b), and systematic reviews for four (Chagas, Echinococcus, Rabies, Cysticercosis) (Level 2a-3a). Only Yaws was not reported to affect the nervous system; all other NTDs have been reported to affect one or more levels of the neuraxis. Level 1-2 quality evidence for treatment of neurologic complications of NTDs exists for only five of seventeen NTDs (Chagas, African Trypanosomiasis, Leprosy, Rabies, Cysticercosis). CONCLUSIONS: Neurological manifestations of NTDs cause significant morbidity and mortality, although data are limited. The evidence for treatments of neurologic complications is limited for most NTDs. Increased awareness of neurologic manifestations of NTDs can promote early identification and treatment, thereby contributing to ongoing elimination and eradication campaigns. Study Supported by: NA Disclosure: Dr. Raibagkar has nothing to disclose. Dr. Berkowitz has received royalty payments from Medmaster and Oxford University Press. Dr. Pritt has nothing to disclose. Dr. Headley-Whyte has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mateen has nothing to disclose.
Toughening of carbon fiber-reinforced epoxy polymer composites utilizing fiber surface treatment and sizing

Abstract Toughening of fiber-reinforced epoxy composites while maintaining other mechanical properties represents a significant challenge. This paper presents an approach of enhancing the toughness of a DGEBA/mPDA-based carbon fiber-reinforced epoxy composite, without significantly reducing the static-mechanical properties such as flexural properties and glass transition temperature. The impact of combining an UV-ozone fiber surface treatment with an aromatic and aliphatic epoxy fiber sizing on composite toughness is investigated. Carbon fiber-epoxy adhesion was increased as measured by the single fiber interfacial shear test. The Mode I composite fracture toughness was enhanced by 23% for the UV-ozone fiber surface treatment alone. With the addition of an aromatic and aliphatic fiber sizing, the composite fracture toughness was further increased to 50% and 84% respectively over the as-received, unsized fiber. The increased fiber/matrix adhesion also improved the transverse flexural strength.
Semont maneuver vs. Epley maneuver for canalithiasis of the posterior semicircular canal: a systematic review

Background: The Epley maneuver is generally considered to be the preferred initial treatment for canalithiasis of the posterior semicircular canal. Although the Semont maneuver was originally developed to treat patients with posterior canal cupulolithiasis, several studies have demonstrated successful outcomes when the Semont maneuver is used to treat patients with posterior canal canalithiasis.Objectives: The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Semont maneuver to treat canalithiasis of the posterior semicircular canal as compared to that of the Epley maneuver.Methods: Applicable research articles were obtained through a literature search of the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature Complete, ProQuest Medical Library, and PubMed databases using the search terms ‘Semont’ AND ‘Epley’ AND ‘randomized’ AND ‘positional vertigo’ OR ‘positioning vertigo’ OR ‘positional nystagmus’ OR ‘positioning nystagmus.’ The Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine 20...
NeMoSys: An Approach to Realistic Neural Simulation

We describe a software package that allows for efficient simulation of current flow through complex neurons. Each neuron is represented as a binary branched tree structure,where branches are constructed from linear strings of compartments. The program is set up to allow the user to simulate typical electrophysiological experimental protocols.
ADHD and Depression: the Role of Poor Frustration Tolerance

Unipolar depression is a common comorbidity in children with ADHD with rates ranging from 12-50%. Compared to children with ADHD alone, children with comorbid ADHD and depression require more intense interventions since they experience higher levels of stress and more psychosocial and familial problems. One mechanism hypothesized to underlie the relationship between ADHD and depression is emotion dysregulation. Cross-sectional and longitudinal research has shown that emotion dysregulation mediates the relationship between ADHD and depression. However, there are a number of limitations in the extant literature regarding emotion dysregulation as a mechanism underlying the relationship between ADHD and depression. This article aims to review those limitations and propose that by examining a specific type of emotion dysregulation, poor frustration tolerance, we may gain critical insight into the mechanisms underlying ADHD and depression. We discuss the construct of frustration, its neural basis and evidence that poor frustration tolerance is a key impairment in children with ADHD. We conclude by suggesting that poor frustration tolerance may be a key mechanism underlying the relationship between ADHD and depression, and provide recommendations for how future research can utilize affective neuroscience techniques to examine the neural, behavioral and clinical correlates of frustration tolerance in children with ADHD to more comprehensively examine this relationship.
K562-R As a Model to Study Jak2 in a Non Bcr-Abl Addicted Cell Line

Abstract 4412 Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a hematological disease caused by the fusion protein Bcr-Abl tyrosine kinase. Development of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor Imatinib Mesylate (IM) has significantly improved the long-term survival of early stage CML patients. However, occurrence of drug resistance, permanence of residual disease and recurrence of active leukemia if IM is discontinued, remain problems awaiting solution. Therefore, new therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting alternative signaling pathways or CML progenitor cells that survive IM treatment are needed. We have previously shown that Janus kinase 2 (Jak2) is activated in Bcr-Abl+ cells. We have demonstrated that reduction of Jak2 activity by the Jak2-specific inhibitor TG101209 (TG) or by genetic knock down (Jak2 shRNA and siRNA) in Bcr-Abl+ cell lines, IM-resistant cells and CML blast crisis cell lines resulted in reduced levels of phosphorylation of Tyr177 and of total Bcr-Abl protein. Jak2 inhibition results in diminished activation of the Ras, PI-3 kinase pathways and reduced levels of pTyrSTAT5 (Samanta et al., Leukemia 2011). During these studies we observed that K562 cells and IM-resistant cell line K562-R had different susceptibility to the effect of TG, with K562-R showing increase sensitivity to lower concentrations of TG resulting in faster destabilization of the Bcr-Abl protein. Based on these observations, we hypothesized that increased sensitivity of the K562-R cells was due to the different state of activation of Jak2. In addition, based on recent studies by (Dawson et al., Nat 2009) and by (Rinaldi et al., Blood 2010) we also hypothesized that different levels of Jak2 activation may influence the localization of Jak2 in the cell. We used cell fractionation and western blotting analysis to show that in K562-R cells, active Jak2 is mostly localized in the nucleus with a minor pool found in the cytoplasm. In K562 cells, active Jak2 is equally distributed in both cytoplasmic and nuclear compartment. In addition, immuno-fluorescence confocal analysis of total Jak2 distribution in K562 shows a very organized localization of Jak2 at one pole of the cells but this organization is lost in K562-R and total Jak2 appears uniformly distributed within the cell. K562-R cells were isolated as a Bcr-Abl independent IM resistant cell line that expressed high levels of activated Lyn kinase (Donato et al., Blood 2003). We used K562-R as a model to study the role of Jak2 in a non Bcr-Abl addicted cell line. Since we have previously published that Jak2 up-regulates Lyn kinase activity (Samanta et al., Oncogene 2009), we propose that the higher activation of Jak2 in K562-R is the main driver of oncogenicity and IM resistance and that this cell line may be used to model the role of Jak2 in a cell that is not Bcr-Abl “addicted.” Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
A Promising Practice: School-Based Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Children with Disabilities

Abstract Adults and children around the world are experiencing unhealthy levels of stress. More specifically, the stress levels that children report can have detrimental effects on their social-emo...
Work and Technology: A Bibliographical Essay

A complete library of writings on the interface between work and technology would include everything from Aristotle’s reflections in the Nichomachean Ethics about machine replacements for slaves up to the latest rationale for automation. The task of producing a definitive catalogue for that library would be not Herculean but Procrustean in view of the fluid definitions of “work” and of “technology,” the many related topics that touch on either, and the wide variety of specialists who have addressed them. But only a subset of these works contain or invite deliberations with philosophical import; and fewer still are authored by professional philosophers. Such qualifications notwithstanding, there does exist a literature that can be subsumed under the title: Work and Technology in Philosophical Perspective.
Activation of ilmenite as an oxygen carrier for solid-fueled chemical looping combustion

Ilmenite ore is one of the promising oxygen carriers (OCs) used for coal-fueled Chemical-Looping Combustion (CLC) for electricity generation and CO2 capture. However, the low reactivity and natural activation of ilmenite OC are two major constrains impeding its application. This effort is to improve ilmenite OC’s performance by introducing a small amount of foreign elements, including alkali or alkaline earth metals (K and Ca) and transition metals (Cu, Mn, and Ni). Coating and re-granulation methods were used to prepare OCs where ilmenite ore was the primary constituent. The reactivity, transport capacity, and selectivity of these ilmenite-based OCs with wet syngas, as well as their performances in coal char-fueled CLC were investigated using a TGA, fixed- and fluidized-bed reactors. The addition of K-element significantly improved the OC’s reactivity with wet syngas and coal char. The strong catalytic function for WGSR from K-added OCs was found to play a vital role. Cu-coating hindered effectively Fe-element segregation on the surface of ilmenite OC during cyclic reaction, and the OC structural integrity was well maintained. Ca-, Ni- and Mn-added ilmenite OCs did not show promising prospects. The gasification rate and combustion efficiency could be respectively correlated to the reactivity and selectivity of different OCs except for the K-added samples.
“Elastic” photoproduction of ϱ0 and θ0 mesons from hydrogen

Abstract Cross-sections are presented for the “elastic” processes γ + p → ϱ 0 and γ + p → o 0 at 8.5 GeV.. The inelastic contribution to ϱ 0 and o 0 photoproduction from hydrogen was eliminated by requiring a proton recoil in coincidence with the pair-spectrometer. Detailed mass-fits were made to the rho data using a Soding interference model to obtain the final lldelastic” cross-sections.
Reconsidering Forced Labels: Outcomes of Sexual Assault Survivors Versus Victims (and Those Who Choose Neither):

The goal of the current study was to assess the effects of self-labeling on attitudes related to victim- and self-blaming and self-compassion outcomes in 85 participants (75 women, 10 men) who have experienced sexual assault. Participants classified themselves as either a survivor, victim, or neither survivor nor victim of sexual assault. Regardless of self-classification, groups did not differ in victim-blaming (rape myth acceptance), self-blaming, or levels of self-compassion. Implications for language and forced labels of those who have experienced sexual assault are discussed.
Incorporating Rough Data in Database Design for Imprecise Information Representation

This chapter describes issues of database design for databases that provide representations that allow rough set data. We first present the definition of a rough relational database. A database can be designed by Entity-Relationship modeling or by defining the functional dependencies for the system. We describe rough set E-R models and rough functional dependencies. Based on the rough functional dependencies we provide the various related rough normal forms used in a database schema design. Finally, we discuss issues of database security and the use of rough spatial data in a rough relational database.
Statistical Thermodynamic Treatment of the AFM Tip in Liquid

A statistical thermodynamic analysis of the atomic force microscope (AFM) is presented and applied to a single-atom tip moving quasistatically over a rigid substrate immersed in water. The RISM integral equation technique is used to compute the normal force (load) F z on the tip as a function of its height above the substrate. F z is found to be oscillatory, which implies that multiple scanning trajectories of the tip are possible under constant load. The unique trajectory along which the system is thermodynamically stable is revealed. This study shows that the tip may undergo hopping motion even over a defect-free substrate, due to layering of water molecules between the tip and substrate.
Peripheral Precocious Puberty: Interventions to Improve Growth

Precocious puberty is usually defined as the onset of secondary sexual characteristics prior to age 7 1/2–8 in girls and prior to age 9 in boys. Although sex steroids cause growth acceleration and tall stature in the short term, the potential for a significant loss of ultimate adult height is a central concern in all children with pathologic forms of early puberty. Unlike central precocious puberty (CPP), which refers to early activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, peripheral precocious puberty (PPP) arises from abnormal sex steroid exposure from other sources. These may be endogenous or exogenous, congenital, or acquired. The clinical presentation will depend on the underlying process and on the class of sex steroids (estrogens or androgens) involved. Although many different causes of PPP exist, the most common are congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), familial male-limited precocious puberty (FMPP), and McCune Albright syndrome (MAS). The pathophysiology and clinical characteristics of each of these will be described. A variety of factors are known to influence growth in these disorders. The impact of primary and adjuvant treatment on growth and ultimate height in children with these conditions will be discussed. Data regarding the long-term outcome of established clinical management as well as preliminary findings from investigational approaches will also be summarized.
Case 52: A Loud “Pop” Intraoperatively and Now You Cannot Ventilate

Today you are to anesthetize a 58-year-old man, ASA 2, for an anterior resection of a rectal cancer. He is otherwise healthy but is a big man of 150 kg and 5′8″. His airway is classified as 2. You bring him to the operating room and place him on a “ramp” for easier endotracheal intubation [1]. Noninvasive monitors are placed and you anesthetize him in a routine manner. He is easy to ventilate after being given succinylcholine. However, it is a grade 3 view. You place a gum elastic bougie blindly in the trachea and try initially a #9 endotracheal tube (ETT), but it will not go, neither will a #8 ETT. Eventually you settle for a #7 ETT. You make a mental note that his trachea must be big since you need to put a much larger than normal air volume into the ETT cuff to prevent a leak. With the airway now secured, the patient is put in a steep Trendelenburg position and the surgery starts. His arms are placed out at 90° from the body, and an upper body Bair Hugger blanket is placed. This is the variety of Bair Hugger that has sticky sides to the see-through face cover. The operation proceeds uneventfully, until a large “pop” is heard and the bellows of your Narkomed 2B, North American Drager, descend and stay down. You attempt manual ventilation by using the anesthesia machine’s collapsible breathing bag. This is unsuccessful. No air fills the bag, even though you use the oxygen flush control button and close off of the “pop of valve.” You ascertain that the anesthesia hoses are intact and in the correct position. You decide that the loud pop was the bursting of the ETT cuff. You immediately replace the “burst” ETT over a gum elastic bougie with a new one and blow up the cuff. However, there is no improvement. The oxygen saturation is now 76% and the surgeon has stopped working and is looking at you. You have no Ambu bag in the room and you call for one. While waiting, you mouth ventilate through the ETT. It is then that you see the problem. What is it?
Geographical Information Systems: A New Tool in the Fight Against Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis is a group of parasitic diseases caused by Schistosoma parasites associated with bodies of fresh water affecting more than 200 million people in 76 countries. The disease is present on many continents, including Africa, Asia and Latin America. Like many other parasitic diseases, schistosomiasis has adapted itself to the particular ecology of the habitat: the presence of fresh water is necessary for transmission. The control measures for schistosomiasis include chemotherapy, health education and molluscacide use (snail control). In order to actively identify and control the disease, it is vital that up-to-date information on the epidemiology of the disease be available to the control programme manager. The Schistosomiasis Unit of the Division of Control of Tropical Diseases of the World Health Organization has been exploring the use of geographic information system (GIS) for monitoring the epidemiology of schistosomiasis. Initial studies suggest that GIS can be useful in monitoring schistosomiasis epidemiology and assisting programme managers in their control efforts. However, in order to fully realize the usefulness of GIS, the quality of epidemiological data has to improve and additional information has to be incorporated into GIS to examine the relationship between various ecological and disease-related variables.