cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Total Isothiocyanate Contents in Cooked Vegetables Frequently Consumed in Singapore

The degradation products of glucosinolates in cruciferous vegetables, organic isothiocyanates (ITCs), inhibit carcinogenesis in numerous animal models including cancers of the lung, esophagus, forestomach, colon, mammary gland, and pancreas. To assist investigations aimed at understanding the role of dietary ITCs in the protection of human cancers, we examined ITC contents in various cooked vegetables frequently consumed by Singapore Chinese, whose cancer profile is distinct from that of U.S. whites (e.g., much lower rates of cancers of the breast, colon, rectum, and pancreas). Using an HPLC method to quantify the cyclic product of ITCs and 1,2-benzenedithiol after treatment of vegetable juices with myrosinase, we analyzed a total of 102 vegetable specimens. The results show considerable variation in ITC contents in the nine types of cruciferous vegetables analyzed, ranging from 4.9 μmol/100 g wet weight in bok choi (Brassica chinensis) to 81.3 μmol/100 g wet weight in watercress. ITCs were not detected i...
TUP1 Utilizes Histone H3/H2B–Specific HDA1 Deacetylase to Repress Gene Activity in Yeast

TUP1 is recruited to and represses genes that regulate mating, glucose and oxygen use, stress response, and DNA damage. It is shown here that disruption of either TUP1 or histone deacetylase HDA1 causes histone H3/H2B--specific hyperacetylation next to the TUP1 binding site at the stress-responsive ENA1 promoter. It is also shown that TUP1 interacts with HDA1 in vitro. These data indicate that TUP1 mediates localized histone deacetylation through HDA1. Interestingly, RPD3 deacetylates the ENA1 coding region, and both deacetylases contribute to ENA1 repression. However, epistasis analysis argues that only HDA1 and TUP1 are likely to function in the same pathway. These data define gene and histone targets of HDA1 and illustrate the role of histone deacetylation in TUP1 repression.
RECOMBINANT HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE (rhGH) USE IN GROWTH RETARDED (GR) CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC RENAL INSUFFICIENCY (CRI) AND UNDERGOING DIALYSIS (D): A report of the North American Pediatric Renal Transplant Cooperative Study (NAPRTCS). 2144

Following the approval of rhGH (Nutropin®) by the FDA in 11/94 the CRI arm of NAPRTCS was established to longitudinally track all children with CRI. The D arm of NAPRTCS was established in 1/92. Between 1/92 and 9/95 1998 children < 21 years of age were entered into the D arm and between 11/94 and 9/95 1316 were entered into the CRI arm. The incidence of GR (SDS more negative than - 1.88 - below the 3rd centile on the growth curve) was 40.4% and 35.6% in the D and CRI arms respectively. However, of the GR children only 26.7% and 28.2% in the D and CRI arms respectively were receiving rhGH. Potential factors accounting for the low incidence of rhGH treatment include:(1) lack of access to reimbursement; (2) patient age - < 6 months of age, pubertal adolescents, closed epiphysis; (3) Parental reluctance - fear of malignancy, reluctance to give “shots”, lack of concern regarding short stature; (4) lack of acceptance by Endocrinologist consultant regarding treatment of GR children with CRI. Approaches to address impediments to initiation of rhGH treatment in growth retarded children with CRI and on dialysis should be developed.
ATTACHMENT THEORY AND RESEARCH: Application to Clinical Practice

Although Bowlby's attachment theory has had a profound effect on research in developmental psychology, its application to clinical practice has barely been explored. The theory and its origins are outlined, and attachment-theory concepts that may have clinical applicability are explored, with particular attention to the construct of internal working models. In addition, psychotherapeutic approaches using attachment-theory concepts are summarized.
Constructions modernes de la religion : l'exemple de Volney

Trois oeuvres de Volney (1757-1820) presentent trois constructions de la religion. Son Voyage en Syrie et en Egypte ( 1787) presente l'Islam comme une institution aux effets purement negatifs, qui appuie le despotisme militaire des Turcs. Les Ruines (1791) imaginent un concile de tous les peuples ou les chefs de toutes les religions erigent des obstacles au developpement de la morale naturelle. Le Tableau du climat et du sol des Etats-Unis (1803) ouvre de nouvelles perspectives: grâce a des conversations avec un chef indien, Volney voit dans la religion des Amerindiens une composante de leur culture et la comprehension de la religion devient necessaire a la comprehension du sort des Amerindiens defaits.
Comparison between d-wave superconductor with nonmagnetic impurities and s-wave superconductor with magnetic impurities

Abstract The suppression of the superconducting transition temperature of both the d-wave superconductor with nonmagnetic impurities and the s-wave one with magnetic impurities are described by the Abrikosov-Gor'kov formula. Unfortunately, this leads to a lot of confusion in high T c super-conductor community. We compute here a few physical quantities of these 2 systems, which can discriminate two cases without ambiguity. In particular, the immediate appearance of the gapless behavior is a clear signature of d-wave superconductor, while the persistence of the energy gap is the one of s-wave superconductor.
Temptation and threat in non-zero-sum games:

Rapoport (1962b) characterizes the twoperson non-zero-sum game as a "tale of lust and betrayal." Each player is tempted to doublecross the other to obtain an immediate larger gain for himself, or to maximize his gain relative to the other, or to protect himself from the possible treachery of the other (Bixenstine and Wilson, 1963; Loomis, 1959; Minas et al., 1960; Scodel, 1962; Scodel et al., 1959). At the same time each is inhibited from defection by the fear of retaliation or possibly by guilt at doublecrossing a cooperative partner. Which force dominates in a game depends partly upon the characteristics of the payoff matrix. Rapoport (1962a) represented these characteristics by three parameters (see Figure 1): reward for cooperation (r), temptation for defection (tj), and punishment for defection (p), as shown here:
Differential diagnosis of childhood depression: Using comorbidity and symptom overlap to generate multiple hypotheses

Childhood depression is often found to share symptoms and coexist with several other childhood disorders and physiological conditions, leading to diagnostic errors and possibly inappropriate treatment. Literature relevant to the differential diagnosis of childhood depression is reviewed with particular attention given to the similarities and differences between depression and coexisting conditions such as anxiety disorders, conduct disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The characteristics of childhood depression are compared and contrasted with other possible coexisting disorders. Diagnostic reasoning, confirmatory bias, and the advantages of considering multiple hypotheses when diagnosing depression are discussed.
Social Work Research: Priorities and Obstacles:

Priorities for social work research are suggested and obstacles discussed Clarifying the goals of research is suggested as a first step. Success in helping clients prevent or resolve real-life prob...
Self-reported abuse history and adolescent problem behaviors. I. Antisocial and suicidal behaviors.

Abstract Purpose: To examine the associations of self-reported abuse and sexual molestation with self-reported antisocial behavior and suicidal ideation/behavior in a general population of adolescents. Methods: We used a stratified cluster sampling procedure with replacement to sample 4790 students in Washington State public schools in Grades 8, 10, and 12. Students were asked in a self-administered questionnaire whether they had ever been abused by an adult and whether they had ever been sexually molested. They were also asked about antisocial behavior and suicidal ideation and behavior in the past year. We conducted polytomous logistic regressions, controlling for gender and grade, using Software for the Statistical Analysis of Correlated Data (SUDAAN). Results: Reported abuse history was associated with antisocial behavior and with suicidal ideation and behavior. The associations were stronger for abuse and molestation than for nonsexual abuse or molestation alone, and stronger at higher levels of severity (e.g., suicide attempts vs. suicidal thoughts). For example, adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (in parentheses) for abuse and molestation were 4.4 (3.1–6.2) for suicidal thoughts, 6.8 (4.4–10.4) for suicide plan, 12.0 (7.9–18.4) for noninjurious suicide attempt, and 47.1 (23.3–95.3) for injurious suicide attempt. For abuse alone, these figures were 2.3 (1.7–3.2), 3.1 (2.1–4.6), 5.1 (3.3–7.8), and 11.8 (4.4–31.9), respectively. Conclusions: Efforts to reduce antisocial behavior and suicidal ideation/behavior in adolescence, particularly early or severe manifestations of the behaviors, should consider the possible role of a history of maltreatment, especially the possibility of sexual abuse.
Electronic cigarettes and nicotine clinical pharmacology

Objective To review the available literature evaluating electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) nicotine clinical pharmacology in order to understand the potential impact of e-cigarettes on individual users, nicotine dependence and public health. Methods Literature searches were conducted between 1 October 2012 and 30 September 2013 using key terms in five electronic databases. Studies were included in the review if they were in English and publicly available; non-clinical studies, conference abstracts and studies exclusively measuring nicotine content in e-cigarette cartridges were excluded from the review. Results Nicotine yields from automated smoking machines suggest that e-cigarettes deliver less nicotine per puff than traditional cigarettes, and clinical studies indicate that e-cigarettes deliver only modest nicotine concentrations to the inexperienced e-cigarette user. However, current e-cigarette smokers are able to achieve systemic nicotine and/or cotinine concentrations similar to those produced from traditional cigarettes. Therefore, user experience is critically important for nicotine exposure, and may contribute to the products’ ability to support and maintain nicotine dependence. Conclusions Knowledge about e-cigarette nicotine pharmacology remains limited. Because a user9s e-cigarette experience may significantly impact nicotine delivery, future nicotine pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies should be conducted in experienced users to accurately assess the products’ impact on public health.
Point: the muscle metaboreflex does restore blood flow to contracting muscles.

Imposed reductions in oxygen delivery to active skeletal muscle during dynamic exercise in conscious dogs evoke a powerful pressor response, termed the muscle metaboreflex. During submaximal work rates, the major mechanism used by this reflex is to increase cardiac output (CO), which generates a
Cannabinoid Concentrations in Plasma After Passive Inhalation of Marijuana Smoke

delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and its metabolite, 9-carboxy-THC, were detected in the plasma of a subject during a one-hour passive exposure to the smoke from four marijuana cigarettes containing a total of 104.8 mg of THC. Plasma concentrations of THC were determined by RIA and reached an apparent steady-state concentration of 2.2 ng/mL after 20 minutes of exposure. The presence of THC was confirmed by GC/MS analysis. Results from the two analyses exhibited excellent correlation (r = 0.990), although the concentrations determined by GC/MS were higher than those determined by RIA. Concentrations of 9-carboxy-THC were also determined by GC/MS, and remained consistently below the GC/MS determined concentrations of THC. By administering an infusion of THC, the dose that was inhaled and absorbed during the passive exposure was estimated to be 3.2 micrograms/min.
Limit theorems for random compact sets in Banach space

The concept of random set, though vaguely known for a long time (possibly since Buffon's needle problem), did not develop until Robbins [25, 26] provided for the first time a solid mathematical formulation of this concept and investigated relationships between random sets and geometric probabilities. Later on (in a different context) this concept gave rise to a more general concept of set-valued function in topology, and applications were also found in several areas such as economics (see, for example, Aumann[3] and Debreu[10]) and control theory (see, for example, Hermes [13]), among others. Recently in two independent formulations, D. G. Kendall [17] and Matheron[21] provided a comprehensive mathematical theory of this concept influenced by the geometric probability point of view. Actually, much of the research in this area falls under the heading of stochastic geometry (see, for example, M. G. Kendall and P. A. P. Moran [18]). The D. G. Kendall and Matheron theories have been compared and ‘reconciled’ by Ripley [24]. In the past few years random sets have been investigated as extensions of random variables and random vectors, and in this framework the problems of deriving limit theorems have received a great deal of attention. This approach is benefiting greatly from probability results in Banach spaces.
Rhodotorula minuta fungemia in a ewe lamb

An 8-month-old crossbred ewe, normal upon physical examination, was humanely euthanized for tissue collection. After approximately 3 weeks in tissue culture, fungi began budding out of cells obtained from the choroid plexus. After an additional 3 weeks, budding was observed in kidney cell cultures and eventually in monocyte cultures as well. Serum from the lamb was submitted to the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Colorado State University for fungal diagnosis and was found negative for Aspergillus, Blastomyces, Coccidioidomycosis and Histoplasmosis. DNA was isolated from fungi collected from tissue culture supernatants and used in a set of pan-fungal PCR assays with DNA from Candida acting as a positive control. PCR products were sequenced and BLAST analysis performed. The unknown fungal sequence aligned with 100% identity to Rhodotorula minuta an emerging opportunistic pathogen. Samples were submitted to The Fungal Testing Laboratory at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio for additional validation. We believe this to be the first report of Rhodotorula fungemia in a sheep in the United States.
O retorno de Khulekani Khumalo, cativo de zumbis: impostura, lei, e paradoxos da noção de pessoa na África do Sul pós-colonial

O que poderiam impostores nos dizer sobre a nocao de pessoa em tempos “pos-coloniais”? O que a impostura nos diz sobre os meios de produzir individualidade, identidade, viabilidade social? Se a figura do falso duplo ha tempos assombra nocoes ocidentais de pessoa, em tempos de Modernidade tardia imposturas de diversos tipos se tornam cada vez mais intrigantes. Na Africa do Sul pos- apartheid, onde sequestro de identidade, plagio, falsificacao, ou mesmo crimes falsos acontecem cotidianamente, a impostura e especialmente comum. Discutindo um celebre caso nacional – o alegado “retorno” de um famoso musico Zulu que havia morrido tres anos antes – esse artigo explora o que tais atos de impostura podem nos dizer sobre autoconstrucao pos-colonial, sobre a nocao de pessoa sob condicoes sociais contemporaneas, e sobre as dificuldades criadas por tudo isso para a Lei, a evidencia, e o sentido de reconhecimento.
Towards an understanding of structure-nonlinearity relationships in triarylamine-based push-pull electro-optic chromophores: the influence of substituent and molecular conformation on molecular hyperpolarizabilities

We calculated the second-order hyperpolarizability (β) of a series of triarylamine (TAA) based donor–bridge–acceptor (D–π–A) push–pull type nonlinear optical (NLO) chromophores with different electron donor moieties and the same thiophene π-bridge and dicyanovinyl electron acceptor using a time-dependent Hartree–Fock (TDHF) approach within the software package MOPAC 2012. NLO chromophores with various quantities and positions of methoxy groups in the TAA donor moiety were investigated. The relationship between NLO properties and the electronic or geometric structures of the TAA donor subunit is discussed through the calculation results. Both substituent and conformational effects affect the delocalization of the nitrogen lone pair into the aryl rings, leading to a dramatic influence on the nonlinear optical properties. Introduction of methoxy groups at the ortho positions of the TAA moiety has a larger influence on the molecular hyperpolarizability and dipole moment than the introduction of methoxy group at the para or meta positions. Our calculation results demonstrate how to improve the NLO properties of TAA based chromophores while meeting practical device requirements.
Nanomedicine: About this Special Issue

T his special issue of the Journal of Association for Laboratory Automation provides a series of timely articles on the rapidly emerging field of nanomedicine, a branch of nanotechnology that addresses highly specific medical interventions at the molecular scale. What makes nanotechnology particularly attractive for medicine is that it operates at the same length scale as DNA, RNA, and proteins, the building blocks of biological processes. Nanotechnology holds the potential to transform clinical diagnostics and therapeutics, because it offers a vantage point with unprecedented resolution to study and manipulate biological pathways in complex human diseases. Because nanomedicine is by definition a multidisciplinary field, it is appropriate that the guest editors represent both engineering (T.J.H.) and medicine (J.C.L.) disciplines. The contributing authors of this special issue are recognized authorities from leading institutions in the areas of nanosensors, microfluidics, andmaterials science. Contributions include two versatile biosensor platforms (magnetic nanosensors and photonic crystal arrays) that are highly adaptable for a variety of human diseases; an innovative chip-based portable
Seasonal changes in energy reserves in the common frog, Rana pipiens†

Seasonal changes in blood glucose content, liver glycogen conten, and fat body weight have been studied in Rana pipiens. Over a 12-month period frogs were maintained at room temperature in tap water for a minimum of 14 days before observations were made. The frogs were not fed while in the laboratory. Blood glucose content was high in the summer (June through August) and fall (September through August) and fall (September through November) and low in the winter (December through February) and spring (March through May). The value for summer (60 mgm per 100 cm3 blood) was not signficantly different from the blood glucose level in the fall (60 mgm %). However, the blood glucose content in the winter (52 mgm % ) and the spring (49 mgm % ) were significantly different from each other and from the summer and fall. Liver glycogen content was high in the fall (1.16 gm/100 gm body weight). This decreased through the winter (0.85 gm/100 gm body weight) and spring (0.50 gm/100gm body weigh) until the annual low was reached in the summer (0.27 gm/100 gm body weight). All seasons were significantly diferent from each other when tested statistically. Fat body weights also exhibited a seasonal variation. All seasons were significantly different from each other. The high was in the summer (203.3 mgm/100 gm body weight). Fat body weights then decreased to 87.1 mgm/100 body weight in the fall, 32.7 mgm/100 gm body weight in the winter, and 25.1 mgm/100 gm body weight in the spring. These data are important when studying metabolic changes in this common laboratory animal.
A dynamic CMOS multiplier for analog neural network cells

A strobed multiplier circuit for use in integrated neural network architectures is presented. The circuit, which can be fabricated in a standard CMOS analog process, performs the two-quadrant weighting of interconnect signals via exponential charge packets onto capacitive summing buses. SPICE simulations and MOSIS fabrication results are presented. The proposed design is simple in structure, uses no operational amplifiers for the actual multiplication function, uses no power in the static mode, and has been implemented in standard 2 mu m analog CMOS processing. >
The synthesis of succinic acids and derivatives. A review

(2002). THE SYNTHESIS OF SUCCINIC ACIDS AND DERIVATIVES. A REVIEW. Organic Preparations and Procedures International: Vol. 34, No. 4, pp. 337-366.
A fast nested dissection solver for Cartesian 3D elliptic problems using hierarchical matrices

We present a fast algorithm for solutions to linear systems arising from three dimensional elliptic problems on a regular Cartesian mesh. We follow the approach of Schmitz and Ying (2012) on combining the nested dissection matrix factorization method with hierarchical matrices in two dimensions and extend it to the three dimensional case. A theoretical linear time complexity is derived and a more practical variant with slightly worse scaling is demonstrated.
Heat shock protein suppresses the senescent lung cytokine response to acute endotoxemia

Abstract Background . Previous reports demonstrate that heat shock protein (HSP) can alter the pulmonary inflammatory cascade. We wished to determine if this mechanism is active in the senescent mouse. Methods . A dose-response and time-response curve for sodium arsenite (SA) induction of HSP was constructed. Eight 25-month-old B6C3F1 mice were given either 1, 2, 4, or 6 mg/kg SA. At 4 hours, the lungs were harvested and assayed for HSP by Western blot. Next, 8 mice were given 4 mg/kg SA and the lungs harvested at either 1, 2, 4, or 6 hours after injection and assayed for HSP. Next, 12 mice were prepared: Half received 4 mg/kg SA and 4 hours later, all received 0.5 mg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS). After 4 hours, lungs were harvested and Interleukin-1β mRNA was assayed by Northern blot and semiquantified by densitometry. Results . The optimum SA dose was determined to be 4 mg/kg. The maximum HSP production was at 4 hours. Mice receiving LPS only showed a marked increase (3-fold) in IL-1 message compared with the mice pretreated with SA. Conclusions . These data suggest that in the senescent as in the mature mouse lung, HSP downregulates the inflammatory cascade in response to LPS.
Lifestyle Changes and 14-year Change in High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol in a Cohort of Male Physicians

Background Although cross-sectional studies have identified lifestyle factors associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), no studies have examined the association between changes in lifestyle factors and long-term changes in HDL-C. Methods We examined the association between changes in lifestyle factors and changes in HDL-C over a 14-year period in a cohort of 4,168 US male physicians, followed up between 1982 and 1997 and with HDL-C measured at both time points. Using linear regression, we examined the association between HDL-C change and categorized changes in alcohol consumption, physical activity, body mass index (BMI), and smoking, adjusting for age, baseline HDL-C, and other covariates. Results Stable BMI of 2 or BMI reduction from ≥25 to 2 were associated with increases in HDL-C of 3.1 to 4.7 mg/dL over 14 years. Alcohol consumption of ≥1 drink daily or increase in alcohol consumption from Conclusion These findings suggest that reductions in BMI and increases in alcohol consumption are associated with 14-year increases in HDL-C, whereas decreases in physical activity are associated with 14-year decreases in HDL-C.
A simple alternative to neural network control scheme for robot manipulators

Recent research results have shown that neural network techniques are effective in compensating highly nonlinear uncertainties in the robot model where computed torque method is used for robot motion control. One excellent work was reported by Ishiguro et. al. (1992). The purpose of this note is to present a simple alternate solution to the same control problem which does not require the use of a neural network. The solution is based on the disturbance rejection technique developed by Hsia (1989-92). Computer simulations show that the alternate control method works better. >
Glomerular Filtration Rate and Albuminuria: Twin Manifestations of Nephropathy in Diabetes

In the past three decades, urinary albumin excretion has assumed a central role in the diagnosis and management of kidney disease among people with diabetes, both type 1 and type 2. Microalbuminuria was initially found to predict subsequent overt albuminuria (dipstick positive, or ≥300 mg/24 h),
Demonstration in Tissue Culture of Lymphocyte-Mediated Immunity to Tuberculosis

We have shown that splenic lymphocytes from mice immunized with viable attenuated mycobacterial cells (H37Ra) or ribonucleic acid prepared from these cells will bring about inhibition of multiplication of virulent tubercle bacilli (H37Rv) within normal mouse peritoneal macrophages in tissue culture. Apparently these lymphocytes, when stimulated with viable virulent tubercle bacilli, elaborate a filterable substance(s) which is responsible for this intracellular growth inhibitory effect.
Neural Activity Triggers Neuronal Oxidative Metabolism Followed by Astrocytic Glycolysis

We have found that two-photon fluorescence imaging of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) provides the sensitivity and spatial three-dimensional resolution to resolve metabolic signatures in processes of astrocytes and neurons deep in highly scattering brain tissue slices. This functional imaging reveals spatiotemporal partitioning of glycolytic and oxidative metabolism between astrocytes and neurons during focal neural activity that establishes a unifying hypothesis for neurometabolic coupling in which early oxidative metabolism in neurons is eventually sustained by late activation of the astrocyte-neuron lactate shuttle. Our model integrates existing views of brain energy metabolism and is in accord with known macroscopic physiological changes in vivo.
Materials analysis for nickel-cadmium space cells

Three sets of Ni-Cd space cells have been evaluated by destructive physical analysis procedures which involve extensive materials analysis. The author discusses the results of the materials analysis with particular attention to the NASA Goddard procedural process as modified by Crane Division, US Naval Surface Warfare Center, and the discrepancies between theoretical Cd:Ni electron exchange ratios and actual material analysis results on cells at complete discharge. The sets include baseline cells and cells after two shadow periods and five shadow periods of cycling in simulation of a polar low Earth orbit environment. The results of the chemical and physical characterizations are presented in a comparative manner, and the degradative effects on material properties are discussed. >
Otitis Media: Review of the 2004 Treatment Guidelines

OBJECTIVETo review the 2004 treatment guidelines provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) regarding the treatment of otitis media in pediatric patients.DATA SOURCESA MEDLINE search, restricted to English-language articles about pediatric patients, was conducted (1966–May 2005) using the key words acute otitis media (AOM), guideline, observation therapy, and vaccination. Additional references were located through review of the bibliographies of cited articles.STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTIONStudies related to the fundamental basis of the updated guidelines and articles addressing current issues related to otitis media infection were included.DATA SYNTHESISOtitis media affects many children in the US. Concerns have been raised about the proper treatment of AOM in the face of increasing drug resistance among primary pathogens responsible for infection. Some countries have chosen to observe patients for a designated period of time prior to in...
Quantitative assessment of AKT activation in melanoma

9022 Background: Activating mutations of BRAF are highly prevalent in melanoma. However, multiple lines of evidence suggest that other pathways must also contribute to this disease. Activation of t...
Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interface for Prostheses Control: Electrode Comparison.

Background This study compared epimysial patch electrodes with intramuscular hook electrodes using monopolar and bipolar recording configurations. The purpose was to determine which strategy transduced muscle signals with better fidelity for control of myoelectric prostheses. Methods One of the two electrode styles, patch (n = 4) or hook (n = 6) was applied to the left extensor digitorum longus muscle in rats. Electrodes were evaluated at the time of placement and at monthly intervals for 4 months. Evaluations consisted of evoked electromyography signals from stimulation pulses applied to the peroneal and tibial nerves in both monopolar and bipolar recording configurations. Results Compared with hook electrodes, patch electrodes recorded larger signals of interest and minimized muscle tissue injury. A bipolar electrode configuration significantly reduced signal noise when compared with a monopolar configuration. Conclusion Epimysial patch electrodes outperform intramuscular hook electrodes during chronic skeletal muscle implantation.
Antibiotic Prescribing for Respiratory Infections at Retail Clinics, Physician Practices, and Emergency Departments

OBJECTIVES To compare antibiotic prescribing among retail clinics, primary care practices, and emergency departments (EDs) for acute respiratory infections (ARIs): antibiotics-may-be-appropriate ARIs (eg, sinusitis) and antibiotics-never-appropriate ARIs (eg, acute bronchitis). STUDY DESIGN We analyzed retail clinic data from the electronic health records of the 3 largest retail clinic chains in the United States, and data on visits to primary care practices and EDs from the nationally representative National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey and National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey. METHODS Using multivariate models, we estimated an adjusted antibiotic prescribing rate for each site of care, controlling for differences in patient characteristics and diagnosis. RESULTS From 2007 to 2009 in the United States, there were 3 million, 167 million, and 29 million ARI visits at retail clinics, primary care practices, and EDs, respectively. For all ARI visits, the adjusted antibiotic prescribing rate at retail clinics (58%) was similar to the rate at primary care practices (62%; P=.09) and EDs (59%; P=.48). For antibiotics-may-be-appropriate ARI visits, the adjusted antibiotic prescribing rate (95%) at retail clinics was higher than at primary care practices (85%; P<.01) and EDs (83%; P<.01). For antibiotics-never-appropriate ARI visits, the adjusted antibiotic prescribing rate (34%) at retail clinics was lower than at primary care practices (51%; P<.01) and EDs (48%; P<.01). CONCLUSIONS Compared with primary care practices and EDs, there was no difference at retail clinics in overall ARI antibiotic prescribing. At retail clinics, antibiotic prescribing was more diagnosis-appropriate.
Crystallographic Characterization of the α/β-Peptide 14/15-Helix

We report the first high-resolution structural data for the 14/15-helix, a secondary structure that is formed by oligomers with a 1:1 alternation of α- and β-amino acid residues. Previously, we concluded from NMR data that short α/β-peptides containing cyclopentane-constrained β-residues display rapid interconversion between two helical folding patterns, the 11-helix (i,i+3 CO···H−N H-bonds) and the 14/15-helix (i,i+4 CO···H−N H-bonds). Subsequent work in other laboratories, however, has called this hypothesis into question. Partial support for our original hypothesis was obtained when we obtained the first crystal structure in this α/β-peptide series, which revealed an 11-helical conformation. The present report of a 14/15-helical conformation strengthens the original hypothesis.
Options for the inclusion of model discrepancy in Bayesian calibration

One of the challenging issues in the well-known Kennedy and O’Hagan framework for Bayesian calibration is to formulate the prior of model discrepancy function, which can significantly affect the results of calibration. In the absence of physical knowledge on model inadequacy, it is often not clear how to construct a suitable prior, whereas an inappropriate selection of prior may lead to biased or useless parameter estimation. Aiming to address the uncertainty arising from the selection of a particular prior, this paper conducts an extensive study on possible formulations of model discrepancy function, and proposes a three-step (calibration, validation, and combination) approach in order to inform the decision on the construction of model discrepancy priors. In the validation step, a reliability-based metric is used to evaluate the predictions based on calibrated model parameters and discrepancy in the validation domain. The validation metric serves as a quantitative measure of how well the discrepancy formulation captures the physics missing in the model. In the combination step, the posterior distributions of model parameter and discrepancy corresponding to different priors are combined into a single distribution based on the probabilistic weights derived from the validation step. The combined distribution acknowledges the uncertainty in the prior formulation of model discrepancy function.
Gold plating in the electronics industry

Sur/Fin 79 — the Sixty-Sixth Annual Technical Conference of the American Electroplaters’ Society was held in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 24th to 28th, 1979, Papers dealing with various aspects of gold plating were presented and are summarized in this review.
Prognostic Implications of CTC in Breast Cancer

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) represent an important conceptual link between a primary tumor and the development of metastatic disease, and in the setting of metastatic disease CTC have the potential to reveal important insights into the biology and behavior of the cells undergoing the metastatic process and contributing to the resistance and progression of disease over time. In breast cancer the enumeration of CTC has been demonstrated to be a strong prognostic factor for both progression and survival. The finding of elevated CTC after one cycle of cytotoxic chemotherapy are associated with a particularly poor prognosis, suggesting the need for innovative drugs and treatment strategies. Although prognosis can be important in treatment planning, enumeration of CTC has not yet led to predictive models for the selection of specific drugs or for when to stop or switch the current therapy. CTC can be effective in defining when and how often to perform radiographic extent-of-disease scans. Given the relatively modest impact the CTC enumeration has had on clinical care, the focus has been the development of new platforms to increase sensitivity to allow there detection in a larger fraction of patients and to allow biologic interrogation of these cells such that CTC might allow marker-driven treatment choices.
Software Validation via Model Animation

This paper explores a new approach to validating software implementations that have been produced from formally-verified algorithms. Although visual inspection gives some confidence that the implementations faithfully reflect the formal models, it does not provide complete assurance that the software is correct. The proposed approach, which is based on animation of formal specifications, compares the outputs computed by the software implementations on a given suite of input values to the outputs computed by the formal models on the same inputs, and determines if they are equal up to a given tolerance. The approach is illustrated on a prototype air traffic management system that computes simple kinematic trajectories for aircraft. Proofs for the mathematical models of the system’s algorithms are carried out in the Prototype Verification System (PVS). The animation tool PVSio is used to evaluate the formal models on a set of randomly generated test cases. Output values computed by PVSio are compared against output values computed by the actual software. This comparison improves the assurance that the translation from formal models to code is faithful and that, for example, floating point errors do not greatly affect correctness and safety properties.
The role of heme in the maturation of erythroblasts: the effects of inhibition of pyridoxine metabolism

Abstract The role of heme in the maturation of erythroblasts and in globin gene expression was investigated with two in vitro erythroid cell culture systems, T3-CI2 murine erythroleukemia cells (MELC) and primary cells from mouse fetal liver (MFL). The accumulation and/or rates of synthesis of globin protein, heme, and globin mRNA were assayed in cells in which endogenous heme biosynthesis was reduced by the tuberculostatic drug isonicotinic acid hydrazide (INH). Under conditions in which heme synthesis was reduced 2-4-fold in dimethylsulfoxide (Me2SO) treated MELC and 5-10-fold in MFL erythroblasts, the levels of globin protein were reduced 10-fold and 2-fold, respectively. The rates of synthesis of globin protein were reduced to similar extents without a concomitant decrease in total protein synthesis. The levels of globin mRNA in INH-treated MELC and MFL cells were 2-7-fold lower than those in untreated cells. In MELC cells cultured with both INH and hemin, the globin protein and mRNA levels were the same as in cells cultured with hemin alone. The globin mRNA content of cells cultured with Me2SO plus INH was low but increased within 5 hr after the addition of hemin. Thus, hemin overcame the inhibitory effects of INH. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that heme affects globin gene expression at the pretranslational, as well as the translational level.
Tobacco cessation and brief advice

Patients who are enrolled on tuberculosis (TB) treatment are often ill and are seeking ways to get better. They are more likely at that time to adopt risk-reducing health behaviours. Interventions that are neither complicated nor time-consuming are available to health service personnel to help patients undertake smoking cessation. Brief advice to patients repeated at various times throughout their TB care can increase cessation rates. All tobacco use needs to be identified and reasons for quitting enunciated. Patients are thus given a framework for considering smoking cessation. If patients then choose not to stop currently, they can be asked to reconsider at a later visit, and also be cautioned to avoid smoking in the presence of others. Smokers who want to stop can discuss strategies for avoiding craving and withdrawal, and pharmacological agents can be recommended if they are available. Because the brief advice is repeated, patients are reinforced either for having stopped or for their progress towards stopping.
Harvesting low-grade heat energy using thermo-osmotic vapour transport through nanoporous membranes

Low-grade heat from sources below 100 ∘C offers a vast quantity of energy. The ability to extract this energy, however, is limited with existing technologies as they are not well-suited to harvest energy from sources with variable heat output or with a small temperature difference between the source and the environment. Here, we present a process for extracting energy from low-grade heat sources utilizing hydrophobic, nanoporous membranes that trap air within their pores when submerged in a liquid. By driving a thermo-osmotic vapour flux across the membrane from a hot reservoir to a pressurized cold reservoir, heat energy can be converted to mechanical work. We demonstrate operation of air-trapping membranes under hydraulic pressures up to 13 bar, show that power densities as high as 3.53 ± 0.29 W m−2 are achievable with a 60 ∘C heat source and a 20 ∘C heat sink, and estimate the efficiency of a full-scale system. The results demonstrate a promising process to harvest energy from low-temperature differences (<40 ∘C) and fluctuating heat sources. Heat recovery from sources with temperatures below 100 ∘C can provide a significant amount of energy, but it is difficult to achieve with current technologies. Straub et al. devise a thermo-osmotic energy conversion process that can generate power from heat sources at temperatures as low as 40 ∘C.
Ovarian Sex Cord-Stromal Tumors

Sex cord-stromal tumors represent the third group of ovarian tumors in decreasing order of frequency, with approximately 5–10 % of cases falling within this category. The most common entity among these tumors—ovarian fibroma—is readily recognized on frozen sections by a general surgical pathologist; however, other sex cord-stromal tumors may present a significant challenge due to their diverse morphology. In addition, unlike in other tumor types, the biological behavior of sex cord-stromal tumors is usually not directly linked to their microscopic degree of pleomorphism or cytological atypia. As an example, most adult granulosa cell tumors have uniform nuclei and relatively low mitotic activity, despite their locally aggressive behavior and overall 20–30 % recurrence rate. Similarly, the nuclear atypia may not be obvious in juvenile granulosa cell tumors and in biologically aggressive forms of Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors. While histological subtyping of primary ovarian epithelial malignancies on frozen section is typically not necessary and may be deferred for permanent sections, mere identification of an ovarian tumor as in origin, without recognition of the specific entity, is not sufficient for predicting outcome and guiding intraoperative management.
Response Time in High-Frequency Quantum Transport

The theory of quantum transport is the theoretical basis for nanostructure devices. In the last few years, the theory of quantum transport has been extensively discussed, developed, and tested [1]. Much of this discussions, however, has been centered on DC transport. The question naturally arises as to whether, and if so to what extent, we can generalize the results of DC Quantum transport theory and apply them in the high frequency regime. In this paper we study this question. Specifically, we consider the question of the intrinsic time scale of AC operation. Just like the drift diffusion process in a conventional semiconductor device sets one such time scale, so too do various physical processes in a quantum device. We concentrate on two such processes: the RC response and the time scale related to tunneling (see below). It will become clear in the following that this problem is a complicated one; while various formulations in the literature capture some aspects of the problem, a complete description does not appear possible, and any oversimplification can only lead to erroneous results.
Clinical Effectiveness of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Following Surgical Resection of Sternoclavicular Joint Infection: A Case Report

Septic arthritis of the sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) is a rare condition accounting for 0.5% of bone and joint infections. The majority of cases require joint resection and advancement flaps to provide coverage to the resulting wound defect. However, in the setting of an infected wound space, surgeons are often inclined to allow wound healing by secondary intention. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) can be an important adjunct to promote and shorten wound healing time following SCJ resection.
Fourth ventricle injection of ghrelin decreases angiotensin II-induced fluid intake and neuronal activation in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus

Abstract Ghrelin acts in the CNS to decrease fluid intake under a variety of dipsogenic and natriorexigenic conditions. Previous studies on this topic, however, focused on the forebrain as a site of action for this effect of ghrelin. Because the hindbrain contains neural substrates that are capable of mediating the well-established orexigenic effects of ghrelin, the current study tested the hypothesis that ghrelin applied to the hindbrain also would affect fluid intake. To this end, water and saline intakes were stimulated by central injection of angiotensin II (AngII) in rats that also received injections of ghrelin (0.5 μg/μl) into either the lateral or fourth ventricle. Ghrelin injected into either ventricle reduced both water and 1.8% NaCl intake that was stimulated by AngII. The nature of the intake effect revealed some differences between the injection sites. For example, forebrain application of ghrelin reduced saline intake by a reduction in both the number of licking bursts and the size of each licking burst, but hindbrain application of ghrelin had a more selective effect on burst number. In an attempt to elucidate a brain structure in which hindbrain-administered ghrelin and forebrain-administered AngII interact to cause the ingestive response, we used Fos-immunohistochemistry in rats given the treatments used in the behavioral experiments. Although several brain areas were found to respond to either ghrelin or AngII, of the sites examined, only the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) emerged as a potential site of interaction. Specifically, AngII treatment caused expression of Fos in the PVN that was attenuated by concomitant treatment with ghrelin. These experiments provide the novel finding that the hindbrain contains elements that can respond to ghrelin and cause decreases in AngII-induced fluid intake, and that direct actions by ghrelin on forebrain structures is not necessary. Moreover, these studies suggest that the PVN is an important site of interaction between these two peptides.
Hospital Care of Pathological Vertebral Fracture (PVF) in Multiple Myeloma (MM) Patients: Burden of Illness and Patterns of Care

Abstract BACKGROUND: PVF contribute significantly to MM morbidity and disability but are poorly characterized at the population level. We studied the inpatient outcomes for a population-based sample of MM patients to better describe the burden of PVF and patterns of acute management, including use of newer vertebral augmentation (VA) techniques such as vertebro-/kyphoplasty. Methods: Using data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample and ICD-9CM diagnosis codes, we identified adult PVF cases among MM admissions (N = 54,790) to all US hospitals in calendar year 2005. Admissions were described by patient (age, gender, race, adjusted Charlson comorbidity score, primary payer) and hospital type (control, location, teaching status, bedsize). Admissions complicated by spinal cord injury (SCI) were identified and described, but excluded from further analyses. Data regarding therapeutic interventions was extracted for radiotherapy, chemotherapy, spinal surgery, and VA using ICD-9CM procedure coding. We then examined hospital costs (charges transformed using Medicare cost-to-charge ratios), length of stay (LOS) and mortality by intervention. Factors influencing use of VA technology were explored in multivariate logistic regression models. All analyses were sample weighted. Results: A group of 3641 PVF admissions was extracted. Mean LOS was 8.9 days (95%CI 8.2–9.7) and mean costs were $19,290 (95%CI $16,395–22,184). Summary statistics for the uncomplicated group, including rates for therapeutic interventions, are given in the table. Intervention N (%) [95% CI] Mean LOS in Days [95% CI] Mean Costs in $US [95% CI] Radiotherapy 299 (8.3%) [224–374] 11.1 [9.1–13.1] $19,671 [$15,352–23,989] Spinal Surgery 217 (6.0%) [122–313] 11.9 [6.5–17.3] $40,976 [$25,784–56,169] Vertebral Augmentation 1063 (29.5%) [436–1690] 6.8 [5.8–7.9] $19,201 [$17,316–21,088] SCI complicated only 32 ( Conclusions: Acute care hospitalization for PVF constitutes a significant economic burden in the management of MM patients but likely underestimates full costs. While newer VA treatments are associated with shorter hospital stays and decreased hospital costs, age, racial/ethnic, and payer variability in utilization raises concern for disparities in care. Further studies designed to better explore these possible disparities, as well as secular trends in utilization of newer technologies, are warranted.