cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development of a novel constitutive model for improved structural integrity analysis of piping components

Abstract Elbows are critical components of piping systems in the nuclear power industry, however, existing constitutive models are unable to simulate the low-cycle fatigue and ratcheting responses of this component. This study developed a constitutive model, incorporating a novel and various advanced uniaxial and multiaxial modeling features for successful response simulations of stainless steel (SS) 304 short and long radius elbows subjected to internal pressure and opening-closing displacement-controlled cycles. Simulated results demonstrate that if an existing advanced constitutive model is calibrated solely based on the material level responses, it is not able to simulate the elbow responses with acceptable accuracy. This drawback is primarily attributed to the fact that the prior loading and loading histories at different locations in an elbow are different and not represented by the loading histories of the material experiments performed for model parameter determination. Hence, model development and simultaneous experimental verification at the material and component levels trace the drawbacks of the constitutive modeling features effectively. Such evaluation of the simulated responses at two levels provided a novel modeling concept in improving the elbow response simulations quite satisfactorily. The implemented modeling features and response simulations at both levels are presented and critically analyzed for providing insights in developing robust constitutive models for structural integrity analysis.
THz MIMO Channel Characterization for Wireless Data Center-Like Environment

In this paper, we present the measurement setup and results obtained from a Terahertz (THz) Multiple-Input-Multiple-Output channel sounding experiment conducted in a data center-like environment. These measurements were conducted in line-of-sight and obstructed-line-of-sight scenarios with cables of varying thickness serving as an obstruction. Pathloss, shadowing gain, RMS delay spread models, and signal amplitude statistics are presented in this paper. The results provided in this paper are the starting point for a realistic performance evaluation of THz communications in wireless data center environments.
Segmented versus Nonsegmented Deep-Brain Stimulation for Essential Tremor Differ in Ataxic Side Effects.

Background: Directional, deep-brain stimulation may prove beneficial for targets (1) thinner along the lead trajectory, and (2) whose borders are not easily visible by neuroimaging. When targeting the ventral intermediate (VIM) nucleus of the thalamus for essential tremor, even baseline ataxia may be exacerbated by medial spread of current and antidromic stimulation of vestibular-cerebellar-thalamic afferents. Case Report: The present patient with essential tremor developed refractory head tremor leading to implantation of bilateral St. Jude/Abbott segmented leads into the VIM to afford additional programming options. Discussion: Video evidence showed that directional stimulation did not exacerbate ataxia beyond baseline, whereas nondirectional stimulation exacerbated ataxia consistently. We discuss how this programming advantage may help address a common complication from DBS implantation for essential tremor patients.
Field-Effect Transistors 1

In this chapter, we describe the early development of gallium oxide transistors that led to the most common gallium oxide device: n-type, depletion-mode, metal insulator semiconductor field effect transistor. We relate the enticing material properties of gallium oxide described in earlier chapters to the requirements in design and fabrication of marketable devices for low-loss power switching and radio frequency applications. A route for device optimization is shown by maximizing electric field in the drift region while reducing parasitic resistance. We analyze the developments that will be required to overcome device-related technical barriers such as achieving low contact resistance, reducing effects of self-heating, and increasing device gain. The chapter concludes with recent research and goals for gallium oxide transistors moving forward with subsequent chapters detailing these topics.
Preliminary results of a phase II study of neoadjuvant checkpoint blockade for surgically resectable undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) and dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS).

11505Background: is a randomized, phase II non-comparative trial evaluating the efficacy of neoadjuvant checkpoint blockade [nivolumab (N) or ipilimumab/ nivolumab (I/N)] in patients (pts) with sur...
Metastable hybridization-based DNA information storage to allow rapid and permanent erasure.

The potential of DNA as an information storage medium is rapidly growing due to advances in DNA synthesis and sequencing. However, the chemical stability of DNA challenges the complete erasure of information encoded in DNA sequences. Here, we encode information in a DNA information solution, a mixture of true message- and false message-encoded oligonucleotides, and enables rapid and permanent erasure of information. True messages are differentiated by their hybridization to a "truth marker” oligonucleotide, and only true messages can be read; binding of the truth marker can be effectively randomized even with a brief exposure to the elevated temperature. We show 8 separate bitmap images can be stably encoded and read after storage at 25 °C for 65 days with an average of over 99% correct information recall, which extrapolates to a half-life of over 15 years at 25 °C. Heating to 95 °C for 5 minutes, however, permanently erases the message. The chemical stability of DNA makes complete erasure of DNA-encoded data difficult. Here the authors mix true and false messages, differentiated by whether a truth marker oligo is bound to it, and show that brief exposure to elevated temperatures randomizes the binding of truth markers preventing data recovery.
The impact of prior ipsilateral arthroscopy on infection rates after shoulder arthroplasty.

Background Patients frequently undergo interventions before shoulder arthroplasty, including injections and arthroscopy. Although the potential impact of injections on postoperative outcomes such as infection has been well studied, it is less clear whether prior arthroscopy has an impact on infection rates after shoulder arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to determine whether prior ipsilateral shoulder arthroscopy is associated with an increased risk of postoperative infection after shoulder arthroplasty. Methods Patients who underwent shoulder arthroplasty, including hemiarthroplasty, total shoulder arthroplasty, or reverse shoulder arthroplasty with a minimum of 1-year preoperative database exposure, were queried using Current Procedural Terminology codes from 2 large insurance databases, including both private-payer (Humana, 2008-2017) and Medicare (2006-2014) data. Patients with procedures for infection, fractures, or without laterality data were excluded. Those who underwent ipsilateral shoulder arthroscopy within 2 years before their arthroplasty were identified and compared with controls who did not undergo prior arthroscopy. Each database was analyzed separately. Periprosthetic infection within 1 year after arthroplasty was queried for each group and compared using a logistic regression analysis with control for demographic and comorbidity confounders. Results A total of 9362 Medicare patients and 17,716 private-payer patients were included in the study. Of these, 486 (5.2%) Medicare patients and 685 (3.9%) private-payer patients underwent prior arthroscopy. In the Medicare database, prior arthroscopy was also associated with a postarthroplasty infection rate of 3.9% as compared with 1.9% in the control group (odds ratio: 1.96, 95% confidence interval: 1.20-3.22, P = .003). Similarly, in the private insurance cohort, prior shoulder arthroscopy was associated with a postarthroplasty infection rate of 2.9% as compared with 1.4% in the control group (odds ratio: 1.85, 95% confidence interval: 1.13-3.03, P = .005). Conclusion Shoulder arthroscopy performed within 2 years before shoulder arthroplasty is associated with a higher infection rate in the first year after shoulder arthroplasty.
Perceived police performance, racial experiences, and trust in local government

Given the continued revelation of police abuses of racial-ethnic minorities in America, it is of the utmost importance for scholars to focus on questions of how police conduct is related to minorit...
Cryoablation Preferred as Initial Therapy for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

Initial cryoablation for patients with paroxysmal AF is superior to initial antiarrhythmic drug therapy. Another study in the same issue of New England Journal of Medicine compared cryoablation with medical therapy and had similar findings.
Lymphadenopathy as a prodrome for systemic lupus erythematous.

A 41-year-old woman presented to the hospital with one month of fever, chills, lymphadenopathy, abdominal pain, a bilateral upper extremity rash, and malaise. The patient had no significant prior medical history and was physically active, kickboxing twice a week and working 16-hour days. She reported increased difficulty getting out of bed over the span of one month. Physical exam was notable for tender, palpable posterior cervical lymph nodes that were mobile and about 1 cm in maximum diameter. There was mild abdominal tenderness to deep palpation without guarding or rebound tenderness. A computerized tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis was notable for diffuse mesenteric fat stranding and prominent right retroperitoneal lymph nodes. The patient was readmitted two months later with worsening fatigue, abdominal pain, subjective fever, night sweats, and swelling and tenderness of her wrists and fingers despite ibuprofen. After extensive infectious, hematologic and autoimmune evaluations, a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) was made and treatment with high-dose steroids and hydroxychloroquine, which resulted in gradual improvement in symptoms. This report highlights fevers and generalized lymphadenopathy as a subtle prodrome of SLE.
Reductive Reactivity of the 4f75d1 Gd(II) Ion in {GdII[N(SiMe3)2]3}-: Structural Characterization of Products of Coupling, Bond Cleavage, Insertion, and Radical Reactions.

The reductive reactivity of a Ln(II) ion with a nontraditional 4fn5d1 electron configuration has been investigated by studying reactions of the {GdII(N(SiMe3)2)3]}- anion with a variety of reagents that survey the many reaction pathways available to this ion. The chemistry of both [K(18-c-6)2]+ and [K(crypt)]+ salts (18-c-6 = 18-crown-6; crypt = 2.2.2-cryptand) was examined to study the effect of the countercation. CS2 reacts with the crown salt [K(18-c-6)2][Gd(NR2)3] (1) to generate the bimetallic (CS3)2- complex {[K(18-c-6)](μ3-CS3-κS,κ2S',S'')Gd(NR2)2]}2, which contains two trithiocarbonate dianions that bridge Gd(III) centers and a potassium ion coordinated by 18-c-6. In contrast, the only crystalline product isolated from the reaction of CS2 with the crypt salt [K(crypt)][Gd(NR2)3] (2) is [K(crypt)]{(R2N)2Gd[SCS(CH2)Si(Me2)N(SiMe3)-κN,κS]}, which has a CS2 unit inserted into a cyclometalated amide ligand. Complexes 1 and 2 reductively couple pyridine to form bridging dipyridyl moieties, (NC5H4-C5H4N)2-, that generate bimetallic complexes differing only in the countercation, {[K(18-c-6)(C5H5N)2]}2{[(R2N)3Gd]2[μ-(NC5H4-C5H4N)2]} and [K(crypt)]2{[(R2N)3Gd]2[μ-(NC5H4-C5H4N)2]}. Complexes 1 and 2 also show similar reactivity with (2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-1-yl)oxyl (TEMPO) to form the (TEMPO)- complexes [K(18-c-6)][(R2N)3Gd(η1-ONC5H6Me4)] and [K(crypt)][(R2N)3Gd(η1-ONC5H6Me4)], respectively. The first example of a bimetallic coordination complex containing a Bi-Gd bond, [K(crypt)][(R2N)3Gd(BiPh2)], was obtained by treating 2 with BiPh3.
Two-channel 1D and 2D biorthonormal filter banks with causal stable IIR and linear phase FIR filters

A new class of two-channel biorthogonal filter banks is derived. The framework covers two useful subclasses: (i) causal stable IIR filter banks; (ii) linear phase FIR filter banks. Perfect reconstruction is structurally preserved and the structural complexity is very low. Filter banks of high frequency selectivity can be achieved by simply designing a single transfer function. Furthermore zeros of arbitrary multiplicity at aliasing frequency can be easily imposed, for the purpose of generating wavelets with regularity property. We also map the proposed 1D framework into 2D. The mapping preserves: (i) perfect reconstruction; (ii) stability in the IIR case; (iii) linear phase in the FIR case; (iv) zeros at aliasing frequency and (v) frequency characteristic of the filters. >
The Hidden Life of Things: Commodification, Imperialism, and Environmental Feminism in Arundhati Roy's The God of Small Things

Environmental and postcolonial feminists argue that the political economy of imperialism alters a community's social interaction with nature and the land from a paradigm of "the commons" to one that treats nature like a commodity. The theoretical and imaginative perspectives represented in their research and activism have made possible an understanding of the interconnections of gender, class, and caste exploitation and environmental destruction to an underlying pattern of capitalist accumulation, one that generates intensified commodification of labor and land. In this article, I develop an analysis of Arundhati Roy's novel The God of Small Things as an environmental feminist critique in order to gain greater insight into the commodity logic of empire. Indeed, it is my argument that the novel's structural principles of nonlinearity, repetition, and layered complexity generate a deeply dialectical view of history, identity, and the environment. Central to this narrative project is the novel's interrogation of the commodity logic that underlies the construction of patriarchal ideological formations under capitalist imperialism. That is, the novel may be said to be a profound meditation on the often confounded ways underlying forces of history and economics are concealed within dominant narratives and habits of thought. The novel contrasts the surface meanings of things with the underlying realities of historical exploitation, and thus demonstrates how ideological perception is organized but also undermined. In order to fully appreciate the novel's work of demystification, my examination of the novel develops what might be described as a "negative dialectics of environmental feminism" to interrogate -- and also to construct alternatives to -- the dominant meanings that structure social interaction and relationships with the environment.
Boron-nitrogen compounds : XXII. The infrared spectrum of bis(dimethylamino)methylborane☆☆☆

Abstract Major infrared absorptions of bis(dimethylamino)methylborane were assigned on the basis of studies with isotopically labeled materials. The influence of substituents on the BN stretching vibration is discussed and factors concerning the elucidation of the BN bond nature in the bisaminoborane system from spectral data are evaluated.
Modes of Star Formation and Constraints on the Birth Aggregate of our Solar System

This work suggests that star forming environments should be classified into finer divisions than the traditional isolated and clustered modes. Using the observed open cluster system, we estimate the fraction of star formation that takes place within cluster environments: Only about 10% of the stellar population originates from star forming regions destined to become open clusters. The smallest clusters included in the observational surveys (containing N ~ 100 – 300 members) roughly coincide with the smallest stellar systems that evolve as clusters in a dynamical sense. Specifically, we show that stellar systems with too few members N N *). Many — if not most — stars form through the intermediate mode in stellar groups with 10 < N < N * ~ 100. The groups evolve and disperse much more rapidly than do open clusters and thus represent a different type of astronomical entity. Furthermore, groups and clusters affect star formation in different ways. Groups have a low probability of containing massive stars and are thus unaffected by supernovae and intense ultraviolet radiation fields. In addition, interactions between the young stellar objects are relatively rare in groups because of their short lifetimes and small stellar membership. Finally, we can apply these considerations to the formation of our own solar system and thereby find tight constraints on the solar birth aggregate.
Phenylthiocarbamide taste sensitivity is associated with sinonasal symptoms in healthy adults.

Background The bitter taste receptor T2R38, expressed in the tongue and nasal epithelium, has been shown to trigger sinonasal innate immunity contributing to the prevention of gram-negative upper airway bacterial infections. Common polymorphisms of the T2R38 gene, correlating with bitter taste sensitivity to phenylthiocarbamide (PTC), have been linked to differences in sinonasal innate immune response, with specific genotypes significantly more common in medically recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis patients. The purpose of this study was to examine this association between T2R38 function and sinonasal infection or symptoms in a healthy population. Methods A survey of the frequency of sinus infections, as well as other nasal symptoms such as colds, allergies, and overall nasal quality of life (nQOL), was administered to healthy adult participants. nQOL was measured using a 0 to 3 scale of worsening symptoms. A PTC compound taste strip was administered with T2R38 taste sensitivity classified as extremely, somewhat, or not sensitive. Results Among 217 participants (55% female, 70% Caucasian, 42% age 21 to 25 years), 30% did not detect bitterness (nontasters), 34% were moderate tasters, and 36% were “supertasters,” experiencing a strong, unpalatable bitterness. Supertasters were associated with less frequent sinus infections (p = 0.04), and PTC sensitivity was predictive of nasal symptoms: Supertasters had the best nQOL scores, followed by moderate tasters and nontasters (means: 0.65, 0.81, 1.00, respectively; p = 0.014 for trend). There were no significant associations with other variables. Conclusion This study provides evidence that T2R38 functionality in the tongue correlates with nasal symptoms in healthy individuals.
Mimi Pinson Goes to War: Taste, Class and Gender in France, 1900–18

In the years leading up to the First World War, the Frenchwomen of a free performing-arts programme for female workers, known as the Mimi Pinsons, began to appear frequently in popular stories, articles, poems and songs as cultural shorthand for a renovated social vision of France. Founded by composer and philanthropist Gustave Charpentier in 1900, the Oeuvre de Mimi Pinson taught its worker–students elementary music, song and dance, and gradually expanded to include a charitable organisation and social network. A closer examination of the OMP reveals that its members were also used to reconcile early twentieth-century French anxieties about working-class militancy and even war by way of a potent cultural association of female sexuality, aesthetic refinement and labour. In the years before the First World War, the Mimi Pinsons were defined by journalists, government officials and the OMP's own organisers according to a formulaic type which at once modernised and constrained the role of the female Parisian worker. Associated almost exclusively with the luxury-garment trades – seamstresses, flowermakers, milliners and department-store clerks – the new Mimi Pinsons were embraced by the public as naturally chic yet diligent guardians of French art and craft. These female worker–students allowed an easy merging of the body of the female worker with particularly French notions of the patriotic responsibility of feminine taste. When the First World War came, many of the Mimi Pinsons joined the war effort as workers and nurses, yet they were embraced by the public primarily for their service as tasteful creators of patriotic decorative objects, and as an ideal symbolic figure for managing anxieties about the social dissolution that came with the war.
On the generalized Berkson's estimator in the general qualitative response model

Abstract Estimation of the general qualitative response model, Pk = Fk(xβ1,…, xHβ), k = 1,…, K, where H ⩽ K, is considered. We show under general conditions that asymptotically efficient generalized Berkson's estimators can be derived even if H
AL–AUGITE AND CR–DIOPSIDE ULTRAMAFIC XENOLITHS IN BASALTIC ROCKS FROM WESTERN UNITED STATES

Abstract Ultramafic xenoliths in basalts from the western United States are divided into Al-augite and Cr-diopside groups. The Al-augite group is characterized by Al, Ti-rich augites, comparatively Fe-rich olivine and orthopyroxene, and Al-rich spinel, the Cr-diopside group by Cr-rich clinopyroxene and spinel and by Mg-rich olivine and pyroxenes. Both groups have a wide range of subtypes, but the Al-augite group is dominated by augite-rich varieties, and the Cr-diopside group by olivine-rich lherzolites.
Show and Sell: Teaching Sales Through Hands-on Selling

There is a shortage of qualified salespeople, which creates a challenge for educators to prepare more students for a sales career. One of the most common teaching techniques used in preparing students is role playing, which mirrors real-world selling. However, role plays are not necessarily authentic because the players and conditions are not a real sales environment. “Show and Sell,” a teaching innovation, overcomes this limitation through a project-centered approach, whereby students sell a product to business and consumer prospects. The project can be applied across formats (hybrid, online, and in-person) to meet curricular objectives that teach students how to sell.
Post hoc subgroup analysis.

I am surprised by the published conclusions of Hung et al 1 in a recent issue of CHEST (August 2013). The authors’ stated meth ods are not adequate to support their conclusion that hyperimmune IV immunoglobulin (H-IVIG) ben efi ts mortality if given within 5 days to patients with severe 2009 infl uenza A(H1N1) infection. The primary outcome analysis of 34 patients presented in Table 1 of the study 1 shows that fi ve patients who received H-IVIG died, and four control subjects died. The authors subsequently performed a subgroup analysis of 22 patients who received treatment within 5 days of symptom onset. All fi ve of the H-IVIG fatalities were excluded from this analysis, but all four of the control subjects’ deaths were retained. This is not explicitly explained by the authors but can be seen by comparing survival data in Tables 1 and 2. 1 There is no mention of any plan to perform this subgroup analysis in the Materials and Methods section; therefore, there is no guarantee that this subgroup was not specifi cally formulated to elicit a presupposed conclusion. This is an excellent example of why unplanned subgroup analysis should not be acceptable as a basis for scientifi c conclusions.
The role of graduate medical education in global health: Proceedings from the 2013 Academic Emergency Medicine consensus conference

The past 40 years have seen expanded development of emergency medicine (EM) postgraduate residency training programs worldwide. An important part of this educational experience is the ability of resident trainees to participate in experiences abroad. However, little is known about how these experiences shape trainees and the populations they serve. During the 2013 Academic Emergency Medicine consensus conference, a group of educators met to define and outline current trends in graduate medical education (GME) emergency care research. The authors discuss future research questions bridging the gap of GME and global health. Resumen En los ultimos 40 anos se ha asistido a un gran desarrollo en los programas de formacion de residencia de postgrado de medicina de urgencias y emergencias en todo el mundo. Una parte importante de esta experiencia formativa es la capacidad del residente en formacion de participar en experiencias en el extranjero. Sin embargo, se sabe poco de como estas experiencias influyen en los residentes y en las poblaciones a las que atienden. Durante la Conferencia de Consenso de la Academic Emergency Medicine de 2013, un grupo de docentes se reunieron para definir y resumir las tendencias actuales en la investigacion en atencion urgente en la formacion medica de postgrado. Los autores debaten preguntas de investigacion futuras que abarcan el vacio de la formacion medica de postgrado en salud global.
Messy Ethics: Conducting Moral Participatory Action Research in the Crucible of University-School Relations.

In this article we argue that when university researchers engage in democratic participatory action research with schools the process requires a special type of attention to the ethical difficulties which can arise. We note how current professional standards of ethics are inadequate to fully address many of the dilemmas faced in collaborative research. We then share examples of ethical dilemmas that have arisen in our work with schools and demonstrate how each has contributed to the (developing) framework we have created to avoid or manage the kinds of messy ethical issues we describe. We argue that this framework reflects a continuous commitment to an ethics of practice. We believe that those engaged in this type of work must assume an ethical stance and view all decisions in the research process as ethical ones that potentially affect the lives of all of those involved.
A Genetic Algorithm Approach to Nonlinear Least Squares Estimation

A common type of problem encountered in mathematics is optimizing nonlinear functions. Many popular algorithms that are currently available for finding nonlinear least squares estimators, a special class of nonlinear problems, are sometimes inadequate. They might not converge to an optimal value, or if they do, it could be to a local rather than global optimum. Genetic algorithms have been applied successfully to function optimization and therefore would be effective for nonlinear least squares estimation. This paper provides an illustration of a genetic algorithm applied to a simple nonlinear least squares example.
Design Review Of Three Reflectance Scatterometers

Design considerations for three scatterometers are presented. The first instrument, a total integrated scatter device, is currently used to make scatter measurements on flat reflectors in an optical finishing lab. The second scatterometer is a small research oriented system, nearly complete, which measures scattering intensity from relatively small diameter reflectors (a few inches) as a function of angle in the incident plane. The third system, which is still undergoing final design, also measures scattering intensity as a function of angle but will be able to do so in a nearly complete hemisphere in front of the sample. In addition, this third system will have variable angle of incidence capability and be able to measure scatter from any spot on flat reflectors up to 14 inches in diameter. Each of these systems is controlled by a small digital computer which, after initial system alignment, directs the measurement procedure, records data and analyzes results. This paper examines the problems associated with the mechanical motions of the systems, sample holding and orientation, system alignment, data compression and measurement of optical intensities that vary by as much as eight orders of magnitude. A short review of some applications for the data generated by these types of scatterometers is also given.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Congruence Permutable and Congruence 3-Permutable Locally Finite Varieties

Abstract We give a tame congruence-theoretic characterization of congruence permutable and congruence 3-permutable locally finite varieties.
Performance of NASA Equation Solvers on Computational Mechanics Applications

This paper describes the performance of a new family of NASA-developed equation solvers used for large-scale (i.e. 551,705 equations) structural analysis. To minimize computer time and memory, the solvers are divided by application and matrix characteristics (sparse/dense, real/complex, symmetric/nonsymmetric, size: in-core/out of core) and exploit the hardware features of current and future computers. In this paper, the equation solvers, which are written in FORTRAN, and are therefore easily transportable, are shown to be faster than specialized computer library routines utilizing assembly code. Twenty NASA structural benchmark models with NASA solver timings reside on World Wide Web with a challenge to beat them.
Expression of FSHD-related DUX4-FL alters proteostasis and induces TDP-43 aggregation.

Objective Pathogenesis in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) appears to be due to aberrant expression, particularly in skeletal muscle nuclei, of the full-length isoform of DUX4 (DUX4-FL). Expression of DUX4-FL is known to alter gene expression and to be cytotoxic, but cell responses to DUX4-FL are not fully understood. Our study was designed to identify cellular mechanisms of pathogenesis caused by DUX4-FL expression. Methods We used human myogenic cell cultures to analyze the effects of DUX4-FL when it was expressed either from its endogenous promoter in FSHD cells or by exogenous expression using BacMam vectors. We focused on determining the effects of DUX4-FL on protein ubiquitination and turnover and on aggregation of TDP-43. Results Human FSHD myotubes with endogenous DUX4-FL expression showed both altered nuclear and cytoplasmic distributions of ubiquitinated proteins and aggregation of TDP-43 in DUX4-FL-expressing nuclei. Similar changes were found upon exogenous expression of DUX4-FL, but were not seen upon expression of the non-toxic short isoform DUX4-S. DUX4-FL expression also inhibited protein turnover in a model system and increased the amounts of insoluble ubiquitinated proteins and insoluble TDP-43. Finally, inhibition of the ubiquitin–proteasome system with MG132 produced TDP-43 aggregation similar to DUX4-FL expression. Interpretations Our results identify DUX4-FL-induced inhibition of protein turnover and aggregation of TDP-43, which are pathological changes also found in diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and inclusion body myopathy, as potential pathological mechanisms in FSHD.
Acceptance of torula yeast for use as a food supplement

The acceptance of torula yeast grown on ethanol was evaluated by incorporation into familiar foods. Three preparations of torula yeast were used : Spray‐dried torula yeast (primary yeast), water‐washed torula yeast, and torula yeast treated to reduce the nucleic acid content. Control diets contained either soy flour or potato flour. These materials (20 ± 2 g) were incorporated into a midday meal and served to young adults (110 males, 85 females) five days per week for a three‐week period. Effects of the test meals were monitored by analysis of uric acid levels in blood and urine and by questionnaire. Subjectively, there were no major differences in the acceptance of test meals. Severe symptoms previously associated with ingestion of torula yeast were not found. Subjects in all test groups, whether consuming yeast, soy or potato, reported minor symptoms; but the incidence and severity did not change during the test period. Uric acid analysis indicated a slight increase in serum uric acid levels in those su...
Single pion production and multiple pion annihilations in $$\bar p - p$$ interactions at 7 GeV/c

A preliminary study of single pion production with no annihilation and multiple pion annihilation in antiproton-proton interactions at 7 GeV/c indicates that the single pion production cross-section is 5.6±1.2mb, and the multipion annihilation cross-section is ∼24mb. Although there is strong evidence for resonance production in the one pion production channels, these states do not appear to be dominated by any single resonance. Resonance production in the annihilation channels is small compared to rates observed at lower energies.
Overview of Avian Neurology and Neurological Diseases

The neurological examination of mammals is compared with that suggested for avian species. The discussion on the neurological examination addresses mental status, seizures, posture and movement, postural reactions, spinal reflexes, muscle tone, sensory examination, and the cranial nerve examination. The second section addresses clinical signs and histopathological lesions associated with diseases of the nervous system that affect cage and aviary species. Some discussion of diseases reported in noncompanion species is given as well. Treatment of specific diseases is not mentioned in the text of the article as other sources have already addressed such topics.
Detection of d-serine in neural samples by saccharide enhanced chiral capillary electrophoresis

Highly fluorescent enantiomeric derivatives of d/l-serine from naphthalene-2,3-dicarboxaldehyde were resolved by hydroxypropyl-γ-cyclodextrin modified capillary electrophoresis using a saccharide as an enhancing chiral selector. Four saccharides, i.e. d-(+)-glucose, d-(−)-fructose, β-lactose, and sucrose were tested. Similar enhancing effects were observed. Coupled with laser induced fluorescence detection, this separation was applied to the determination of d-serine in neural samples including rat brain tissues, Aplysia ganglia, microdialysates from rat brain, and Aplysia individual neurons. High levels of d-serine were found in certain rat brain sections including hippocampus and striatum. d-Serine was also found to occur in Aplysia ganglia, but interestingly, it was not detected in single neurons isolated from Aplysia ganglia.
Genetic differentiation and reproductive incompatibility among Baja California populations of the copepod Tigriopus californicus

Populations of the harpacticoid copepod Tigriopus californicus were sampled from five sites from San Diego, California, to Playa Altamira, Baja California, Mexico. Allozyme analyses revealed that all the study populations are sharply differentiated genetically. At the extreme, two populations, Punta Baja and Playa Altamira, have no alleles in common at the seven allozyme loci studied. All pairwise interpopulation crosses successfully produced F2 hybrids except those involving the Playa Altamira population. All crosses using Playa Altamira females failed to produce F1 hybrids, while Playa Altamira males successfully produced F1 progeny with females from all other sites. These F1 offspring, however, were completely sterile (with San Diego and Punta Banda females) or only occasionally produced F2 offspring (with Punta Morro and Punta Baja females). These results suggest that allopatric differentiation among Baja populations has resulted in exceptionally high levels of genetic divergence and nearly complete reproductive isolation of the Playa Altamira population, which should now be recognized at the semispecies (or perhaps sibling species) level.
Calcium transport through carbon tetrachloride solutions of vitamin D 3 .

Dassage of calcium ion occurs from aqueous solution through carbon tetrachloride containing vitamin D3, and is accelerated by orthophosphate anion. No movement occurs when vitamin D3 is absent. In this sytem vitamin D3 appears to act as an emulsifying agent, and this property of vitamin D3 is proposed to account for movement of Ca2+ across the water-carbon tetrachloride interface.
Vision for improvement: Expressive writing as an intervention for people with Stargardt’s disease, a rare eye disease

This study implemented and evaluated the effectiveness of an expressive writing intervention among patients with Stargardt’s disease, a rare disease due to macular degeneration. Participants were randomly assigned to either an expressive writing intervention or a neutral writing condition. Participants completed measures at three time points: baseline, 3 weeks, and 6 weeks post-intervention. Psychological health outcomes improved at the 3-week follow-up for the intervention condition compared to control. Self-reported physical health improved at the 6-week follow-up in the intervention condition compared to control. These results suggest that expressive writing may be an effective, practical, and low-cost intervention for those with Stargardt’s disease.
Postural Hypotension in Diabetic Autonomic Neuropathy: a Review

Postural hypotension is uncommon in diabetes but can occur secondary to autonomic neuropathy. Symptoms are rare and include dizziness, weakness, blurred vision, tiredness, and loss of consciousness. The pathophysiology of postural hypotension is not clear, but changes in intravascular volume, heart rate, cardiac output, and splanchnic vascular resistance are similar in patients and controls. The main factors producing hypotension are a blunted catecholamine response to standing, and failure of lower limb vascular resistance to increase adequately. Treatment for symptomatic postural hypotension includes avoidance of dehydration, adequate salt intake, and fludrocortisone. Other treatments are reviewed but are less helpful. Patients with postural hypotension have intermittent symptoms over the years but rarely become severely disabled. They have a poorer prognosis than patients with symptomatic autonomic neuropathy without postural hypotension.
A comparative study of nitrogen excretion in twenty-three cockroach species.

Abstract o 1. Nitrogen and cation excretion/storage in 23 cockroach species representing 11 subfamilies have been examined. Measurements of externally excreted ammonia nitrogen, uric acid nitrogen, total nitrogen, potassium and sodium were made. Values of total body nitrogen, body urate nitrogen, and body potassium and sodium are also reported. 2. A significant correlation was found between body nitrogen and body uric acid nitrogen. Certain species contained very high levels of uric acid/urates representing as much as 72% of their total body nitrogen. Contrarily, other species were found to contain low levels of uric acid/urates, representing as little as 3% of their body nitrogen. 3. A less significant correlation was found between internal nitrogen storage and external nitrogen excretion. Certain species can be classified as uricotelic, since as much as 62% of their total fecal nitrogen may be excreted as uric acid-nitrogen. Other species can be designated as ammonotelic, since they may excrete as much as 70% of their total fecal nitrogen as ammonia nitrogen. 4. Increased body nitrogen retention may be correlated with increases in body potassium and/or sodium. The internal storage of nitrogen as uric acid appears to involve the formation of potassium and/or sodium urate salts.
Efficacy of opioids for chronic pain: a review of the evidence

Opioid therapy for chronic pain has been popularized over the past few decades, and a concern has arisen that the analgesic efficacy of opioids is not always maintained over prolonged courses of treatment despite dose escalation and stable pain. Considering the potentially serious adverse effects of opioids, the idea that pain relief could diminish over time may have a significant impact on the decision to embark on this therapy, especially in vulnerable individuals. Possible loss of analgesic efficacy is especially concerning, considering that dependence may make it hard to withdraw opioid therapy even in the face of poor analgesia. This article first reviews the evidence on opioid efficacy when used for the treatment of chronic pain, and concludes that existing evidence suggests that analgesic efficacy, although initially good, is not always sustained during continuous and long-term opioid therapy (months to years). The theoretical basis for loss of analgesic efficacy over time is then examined. Mechanisms for loss of analgesic efficacy proposed are pharmacologic tolerance, opioid-induced hyperalgesia, subtle and intermittent withdrawal, and a number of psychologic factors including loss of the placebo component.
Serum and depolarizing agents cause acute neurotoxicity in cultured cerebellar granule cells: role of the glutamate receptor responsive to N-methyl-D-aspartate.

Abstract The life span of neonatal rat cerebellar granule cells, grown in basal minimal Eagle's medium containing 10% (vol/vol) fetal calf serum, was extended to 21-30 days by weekly supplementation with glucose. Addition of 1% fetal calf serum to the culture at 14 days killed 85% of the cells within 1 hr. This lethal effect could be prevented by the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists dibenzocyclohepteneimine (MK-801) and 3-(2-carboxypiperazin-4-yl)propyl-1-phosphonate (CPP). These findings suggested that the glutamate in the serum caused the dramatic neuronal death through action on the NMDA receptor. Indeed, a 5-min incubation in a Locke physiological salt solution containing 20 microM glutamate and 5 microM glycine killed 55-90% of the cells. This acute toxicity could be prevented by a lyso-GM1 ganglioside with N-acetylated sphingosine. The relatively low glutamate content of the sera analyzed suggests that factors in addition to glycine potentiate serum neurotoxicity. The above noted antagonists of the NMDA receptor also greatly reduced the lethal effect of depolarization by 90 mM KCl or 10 microM veratridine. Therefore, it is likely that the toxicity of the depolarizing agents is mediated by glutamate released from the cells. It is concluded that survival of cerebellar neurons in primary culture may be strongly affected by unsuspected neurotoxic phenomena elicited by brief action of a rather low glutamate concentration.
4-((1E)-2-(5-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxystyryl-)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazoyl-3-yl) vinyl)-2-methoxy-phenol) (CNB-001) Does Not Regulate Human Recombinant Protein-Tyrosine Phosphatase1B (PTP1B) Activity in vitro.

Protein-Tyrosine Phosphatase1B (PTP1B) is a negative regulator of the insulin signaling pathway and is a potential therapeutic target for treatment of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome and cancer. It has been postulated that CNB-001 [4-((1E)-2-(5-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxystyryl-)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazoyl-3-yl) vinyl)-2- methoxy-phenol)] may regulate PTP1B activity suggested by a computer-based active site docking recognition model. This possibility was studied using a human recombinant PTP1B assay, and a phospho-peptide fragment of the insulin receptor β subunit domain (IR5). The positive control, suramin, inhibited PTP1B with an IC50 (half minimal (50%) inhibitory concentration) value of 16.34 μM; CNB-001 did not affect enzyme activity across the range of 1nM-0.1mM. This study suggests that PTP1B inhibition is not involved in the beneficial effects of CNB-001 in obese type 2 diabetic mice.
The STanding Orders Protocol (STOP): A Pharmacy Driven Pneumococcal and Influenza Vaccination Program:

Purpose: A Medical Board-approved pharmacy-based inpatient STanding Orders Protocol (STOP) for influenza and pneumococcal vaccination was designed and implemented at Montefiore Medical Center in response to fed- eral and state regulations put in place in 2006. This vaccination program aims to improve historically poor vac- cination rates in a complex, urban patient population. Developing this initiative in a large health care system with high turnover and a diverse (many non-English speaking) population represented a formidable challenge. Methods: In 2006 the institution initiated a program to improve patient care. The program involved a clinical pharmacist rounding on patient care units specifically to encourage the acceptance of the pneumococcal and influenza vaccine in patients at least 65 years of age at 1 of the 2 campus sites in the Bronx, New York. Medical residents were also employed to facilitate the pharmacist and achieve national standards. Registered nurses and licensed practical nurses are authorized to administer standing orders for vaccines and anaphylaxis treatment agents as needed under this protocol without direct physician examination. Vaccine information sheets (VIS) and gender- and ethnicity-specific patient teaching aids provide statistical information regarding disease and mortali- ty rates. Language barriers are reduced by providing VIS in both Spanish and English, and telephone translation in most languages are utilized when necessary. Documentation of refusal of, previously received, or a newly ordered vaccination is placed in the patient's chart and in the central database. Discussion: Prior to the STOP program, the total in-hospital vaccination encounter rates according to various Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) audits was approximately 18% for pneumococcal and 27% for influenza vaccinations, respectively. The institution's current encounter rates have dramatically increased to more than 85% for pneumococcal and 55% for influenza vaccine. Conclusion: The cooperative efforts of physicians, pharmacists, and nursing staff have led to the creation of a suc- cessful inpatient-based vaccine standing orders protocol. As a result, in 2007 the institution approved a second clinical pharmacist to allow for coverage at both of Montefiore's hospital sites. The hospital's goal is to ultimate- ly decrease pneumococcal disease and its severity, increase and maintain the highest vaccination rates in New York City, and comply with national standards. The implication for decreasing morbidity and readmission of patients is promising. Future plans include the development of an ambulatory-based program with a similar design model.
Interactions between depressants (alcohol-type) and stimulants (amphetamine-type).

Abstract The rotarod disruption in rats by 1.5 g/kg of ethanol was prolonged by combining the depressant with 2 or 8 mg/kg d-amphetamine, but not after combinations with 4 or 6 mg/kg of the stimulant. The combination with 8 mg/kg d-amphetamine also induced a prolonged coma and lethality. Cocaine or methylphenidate in combination form with ethanol also showed prolonged disruption of rotarod performance, but severe depression and lethality were not observed at any dose combination. d-Amphetamine in combination with pentobarbital or diazepam also increased the duration of rotarod impairment. Amphetamine plus methaqualone did not prolong rotarod disruption, but rather showed a trend toward antagonism. These combinations of 8 mg/kg d-amphetamine with depressants other than alcohol did not cause prolonged coma and lethality. Lower doses of ethanol (0.25 and 0.5 g/kg) plus 8 mg/kg d-amphetamine induced a delayed impairment of rotarod performance in rats as well as a comatose state and lethality. Mice showed a similar trend for these interactions between alcohol and d-amphetamine but the influence was much less predictable. Analysis of alcohol levels in rat serum and brain indicated little effect of d-amphetamine on the rate of elimination of ethanol. On the other hand, 1.5 g/kg of ethanol prolonged the d-amphetamine decay from brain and serum. This latter interaction was not observed in rats treated with 8 mg/kg d-amphetamine plus 0.5 g/kg ethanol. Mice treated with 8 mg/kg d-amphetamine plus 2.25 g/kg alcohol showed little trend for changes in rate of elimination of either drug. The behavioral effects of the combination of d-amphetamine and ethanol cannot be explained adequately on the basis of altered pharmacokinetics of either drug.
Random effect modelling using Bayesian methods

Bayesian methods are increasingly used in a variety of academic disciplines, and important applications in ecology, medicine, management science, operations research and finance. The continued use of these methods depends on understanding the strengths and weaknesses of current Bayesian modelling practice. In this paper, we examine important implementation issues within the context of data analysis with statistical models which contain random effects or unmeasured heterogeneity. Random effect models provide an effective way to incorporate sources of variation not able to be modelled by covariate information, and these models lead naturally to Bayesian formulations using prior distributions for the variance components. We examine implications for specifying scale parameters in hierarchical models.