cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Meta-Analysis of Postpartum Copper IUD Continuation Rates in Low- and Middle-Income Countries.

Background: Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) initiated immediately postpartum can reduce unintended or mistimed pregnancies, and contribute to proper pregnancy spacing. Data on use and continuation of postpartum LARC in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) is limited. Methods: We searched PubMed, OVID, Embase, Google Scholar, Cochrane, POPLINE, Global Health (CABI), and LILACS databases for relevant terms. Studies of any design, published in English, were screened for relevance based on six-month continuation rates of postpartum LARC, location of study, and LARC insertion within 48 hours after vaginal or cesarean birth. We found no relevant studies of implant or hormonal intrauterine device (IUD). Therefore, analysis was limited to studies of the copper IUD only. Two authors used the Cochrane Public Health Group Data Extraction and Assessment Template to guide data extraction to estimate pooled six-month continuation rates, and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Controlled Trials and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies to rate the quality of the studies. A random-effects meta-analysis of proportions was performed. Results: Immediate-postpartum copper IUDs have a six-month continuation rate of 87% (95% CI 80-92%) in LMIC. The pooled estimated rates of six-month adverse outcomes were 6% (95% CI 5-9%) for expulsion, 5% (95% CI 4-7%) for removal, and 0.2% (95% CI 0.0-0.9%) for infection. Conclusions: High six-month continuation rates and a low rate of adverse outcomes suggest immediate postpartum copper IUD insertion is a feasible and acceptable postpartum contraceptive option for women living in LMIC.
The effect of perturbations of the glycocalyx on microvascular perfusion in the obese trauma population: an in vitro study

Objectives Patients with morbid obesity have impaired responses to resuscitation following severe injury, which may contribute to adverse outcomes. Obesity is associated with microvascular dysfunction and metabolic changes associated with altered hemorheological profiles. These include decreased red blood cell (RBC) deformity associated with increased aggregation and adhesion. These RBC changes may be impacted by the glycocalyx layer of the endothelial cell (EC) and RBC. Degradation of either or both glycocalyx layers may impair microvascular perfusion. This was studied from blood obtained from patients with obesity and in an in vitro microfluidic device to mimic the microvascular environment. Methods RBCs were obtained from fresh whole blood from normal controls and patients with obesity (body mass index 37.6–60.0). RBC glycocalyx was indexed by fluorescent intensity and shedding of EC glycocalyx components into the serum was determined by measurement of syndecan-1 and hyaluronic acid. In a second set of experiments, human umbilical vein endothelial cell monolayers (HUVEC) were perfused with RBC suspensions from control and patients with obesity using a microfluidic device and RBC adherence under normoxic or shock conditions (hypoxia+epinephrine) was determined using confocal microscopy. HUVEC glycocalyx thickness and shedding were also measured. Results Microfluidic studies demonstrated that RBC obtained from subjects with obesity had increased adhesion to the endothelial layer, which was more profound under shock conditions versus normal subjects. This appeared to be related to increased shedding of the endothelial glycocalyx following shock as well as a diminished RBC glycocalyx layer in the obese population. Conclusion Blood from patients with obesity have decreased RBC glycocalyx thickness accompanied by evidence of increased EC glycocalyx shedding. In vitro adhesion to the endothelium was more pronounced with RBC from patients with obesity and was significantly greater under ‘shock conditions’. Hemorheological properties of RBC from patients with obesity may account for failure of standard resuscitation procedures in the trauma patient. Level of evidence
What accounts for Duverger's law? The behavioral mechanisms underpinning two-party convergence in India

Abstract Duverger's Law states the single-member district plurality rules should produce two-party competition. In district-level election races where this expectation holds, what political behaviors—ranging from elites' strategic formation of political parties to voters' strategic abandonment of losing candidates—account for these outcomes? Using data from state elections in India, this article demonstrates that no single mechanism accounts for most electoral outcomes consistent with Duverger's Law. However, mechanisms related to the behavior elites, far more than voters, produce convergence on two-party competition. This article uncovers relatively little evidence of outcomes driven by strategic voting, instead finding that much of the convergence on two parties is attributable to various forms of strategic entry in which parties selectively field candidates in certain races. In particular, elite collusion—when multiple parties coordinate on where to field candidates—is especially important. Data from other countries confirm that these findings are not unique to India.
Cognitive & motor skill transfer across speeds: A video game study

We examined the detailed behavioral characteristics of transfer of skill and the ability of the adaptive control of thought rational (ACT-R) architecture to account for this with its new Controller module. We employed a simple action video game called Auto Orbit and investigated the control tuning of timing skills across speed perturbations of the environment. In Auto Orbit, players needed to learn to alternate turn and shot actions to blow and burst balloons under time constraints imposed by balloon resets and deflations. Cognitive and motor skill transfer was assessed both in terms of game performance and in terms of the details of their motor actions. We found that skill transfer across speeds necessitated the recalibration of action timing skills. In addition, we found that acquiring skill in Auto Orbit involved a progressive decrease in variability of behavior. Finally, we found that players with higher skill levels tended to be less variable in terms of action chunking and action timing. These findings further shed light on the complex cognitive and motor mechanisms of skill transfer across speeds in complex task environments.
SPACE SHUTTLE MAIN ENGINE OVERHAUL PROGRAM

The Space Shuttle Main Engine first flight set from the Orbiter Columbia was returned to Rockwell International/Rocketdyne Division in Canoga Park, California for overhaul after five successful development flights. The three main engines have been completely disassembled and the hardware assessed for space flight effects. Schedules to overhaul subsequent flight engines have been established based on operational requirements of the Space Transportation System. To support these requirements, a dedicated Space Shuttle Main Engine Overhaul Center is being built at the Canoga Park Rocketdyne Facility incorporating the latest in manufacturing, inspection, and data processing equipment.
Mixture theory for longitudinal wave propagation in unidirectional composites with cylindrical fibers of arbitrary cross section—II: Computational procedure☆

Abstract A variational principle-based finite element procedure is described for solution of microstructure boundary value problems derived in the first part of the paper in order to calculate the mixture properties that are required in the mixture theory formulated therein. Numerical analyses are carried out for several microstructural geometries of practical interest. For circular fibers arranged in a hexagonal array, it is found that the concentric circular cylinders approximation often used in practice provides a satisfactory estimate of mixture properties. In case of rectangular fibers arranged in similar unit cells, however, the approximation is adequate for square fibers, but its accuracy decreases with increase in aspect ratio of the unit cell. Finally, the theory is used to study dispersion of longitudinal waves in composites with several microstructural geometries of practical interest.
Effect of Phiocon upon Ligamentous Injury in Rats

Abstract Fourteen incised medial collateral ligaments in respective control and experimental groups of white rats were treated to test whether or not the application of phiocon hastened the rate of healing. There was no significant difference in the rate of healing with respect to the following criteria: (a) amount of granulation present; (b) amount of capillarization present; and, (c) amount of infiltrating white blood cells present. It was substantiated that phiocon: (a) is antiseptic; (b) is systemic; and, (c) produces no observable harmful side effects.
Learning More by Doing Less

A principal must decide whether to implement each of two independent proposals (e.g., earmark requests, policy reforms, grant funding) of unknown quality. Each proposal is represented by an agent who advocates by producing evidence about quality. Although the principal prefers the most-informative evidence, agents strategically choose less-informative evidence to maximize the probability the principal implements their proposals. In this setting, we show how limited capacity (i.e., the ability of the principal to implement at most one of the two proposals) can motivate agents to produce more-informative evidence in an effort to convince the principal that their proposal is better than the alternative. We derive reasonable conditions under which the principal prefers limited capacity to unlimited capacity.
Comparison of analyzing powers for the charge symmetric reactions 2H(d,n)3He and 2H(d,p)3H below 5.5 MeV

Abstract Analyzing powers for these charge symmetric reactions were measured at low energies where symmetry breaking effects due to the Coulomb interaction should be enhanced. Differences in the magnitudes exist and must be explained if charge symmetry holds; a simple energy shift, proposed earlier, is not adequate for this purpose.
An inplace self recordering FFT

A technique is presented which allows an FFT to be performed in place without bit reverse index reordering either before or after the computation. This is done by combining the reordering operation with the first iteration of a decimation in time FFT. Typical savings are 10 percent.
Adult body mass index trajectories and sexual orientation: the Nurses' Health Study II.

Background Cross-sectional research has documented elevated prevalence of obesity in lesbian and bisexual women relative to heterosexual women, but little is known about disparities in longitudinal patterns in BMI change during adulthood. Purpose To examine sexual orientation–related disparities in individual BMI trajectories throughout adulthood. Methods Data on BMI, sexual orientation, and sociodemographics were gathered prospectively from 1989 through 2005 from 90,713 U.S. women in the Nurses' Health Study II and examined in 2011 using general growth mixture modeling to identify BMI trajectories from ages 25 to 59 years. Multinomial logistic regression was used to determine whether sexual orientation was associated with BMI trajectory group membership. Results Four BMI trajectory groups were identified and labeled based on mean BMI within each group at baseline and final follow-up: Group 1: slow-weight-gain trajectory; Group 2: moderate-weight-gain trajectory; Group 3: rapid-weight-gain trajectory; and Group 4: obese-to-overweight trajectory. Lesbian and bisexual women showed consistently higher odds of membership in Groups 2–4 (adverse-weight-gain trajectories) versus Group 1 (the slow-weight-gain trajectory) relative to heterosexual women. Conclusions Both lesbian and bisexual women were more likely than heterosexual women to experience adverse-weight-gain trajectories in adulthood. New research efforts are needed to understand and eliminate these pronounced disparities.
Special Education's Changing Identity: Paradoxes and Dilemmas in Views of Culture and Space.

In this article, Alfredo Artiles identifies "paradoxes and dilemmas" faced by special education researchers and practitioners who are seeking to create socially just education systems in a democratic society that is currently marked by an increasing complexity of difference. He argues that the two primary discourse communities — inclusion and overrepresentation — must engage in a fuller dialogue and recognize the "troubling silences" within and between their respective literatures. Placing his analysis within the larger political context of current efforts and debates over educational reform, the author gives readers a broad overview of the literature on inclusion and overrepresentation. He then presents a multilayered analysis of culture and space that identifies the limitations of current research, while offering new possibilities and directions for the field. Artiles concludes that unless researchers and practitioners surface their assumptions about difference, as well as culture and space, the special...
Growth-business cycle interaction: A look at the OECD

This paper examines the relationship between long-run growth and business cycles in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The model in the paper specifically assumes that the business cycle influences growth through total factor productivity. Using unconditional volatility to measure the business cycle, this paper finds a negative relationship between the business cycle and long-run growth even after controlling for endogeneity. The result is robust to the inclusion of either period or country dummy variables, but not both. Therefore, the result is somewhat fragile. Finally, the assumption of constant returns to scale is consistent with the data.
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy as Monotherapy or Post–External Beam Radiotherapy Boost for Prostate Cancer: Technique, Early Toxicity, and PSA Response

Purpose High dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy has been established as an excellent monotherapy or after external-beam radiotherapy (EBRT) boost treatment for prostate cancer (PCa). Recently, dosimetric studies have demonstrated the potential for achieving similar dosimetry with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) compared with HDR brachytherapy. Here, we report our technique, PSA nadir, and acute and late toxicity with SBRT as monotherapy and post-EBRT boost for PCa using HDR brachytherapy fractionation. Patients and Methods To date, 38 patients have been treated with SBRT at the University of California—San Francisco with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Twenty of 38 patients were treated with SBRT monotherapy (9.5 Gy × 4 fractions), and 18 were treated with SBRT boost (9.5 Gy × 2 fractions) post-EBRT and androgen deprivation therapy. PSA nadir to date for 44 HDR brachytherapy boost patients with disease characteristics similar to the SBRT boost cohort was also analyzed as a descriptive comparison. Results SBRT was well tolerated. With a median follow-up of 18.3 months (range, 12.6–43.5), 42% and 11% of patients had acute Grade 2 gastrourinary and gastrointestinal toxicity, respectively, with no Grade 3 or higher acute toxicity to date. Two patients experienced late Grade 3 GU toxicity. All patients are without evidence of biochemical or clinical progression to date, and favorably low PSA nadirs have been observed with a current median PSA nadir of 0.35 ng/mL (range, Conclusions Early results with SBRT monotherapy and post-EBRT boost for PCa demonstrate acceptable PSA response and minimal toxicity. PSA nadir with SBRT boost appears comparable to those achieved with HDR brachytherapy boost.
ON PREDICTING COMPUTATIONAL TIME OF A BRANCH AND BOUND ALGORITHM FOR THE ASSIGNMENT OF FACILITIES

Experience with branch and bound algorithms indicates that computational time is a function of not only the size of the problem, but also the nature of the input data. This paper formulates statistically-based variables which describe certain characteristics of the input data and experimentally evaluates their ability to predict computational time for one branch and bound algorithm, the relative location of facilities or “plant layout” problem. Results suggest that the described experimental procedure may be useful for an a priori assessment of the computational difficulty of specific branch and bound problems.
Heat transfer modeling during knock and flame quenching in an engine chamber

Heat-transfer rates present in an engine cylinder undergoing knock are known to be larger than the rates associated with normal engine operation. Further, at the time of knock, the largest heat fluxes are associated with locations on the cylinder wall where the flame is locally quenching. In this study, heat-transfer processes at the flame-wall interface during a knock event are investigated computationally and analytically. Computationally, the governing equations for a one-dimensional, flame-quenching event are solved using a reduced chemical reaction mechanism. Analytically, scaling relations for the flame heat-release rates are used in the governing equations to determine the heat-transfer rates. It is found that while pressure transients modify the wall heat flux, the absolute value of the pressure is the most significant parameter in predicting the maximum heat flux. The wall heat flux profiles are predicted for both the analytical and computational models. In the range of pressures examined, a linear relationship was found between the peak flux and pressure, both for the computational and analytical models. The linear relationship between the pressure and peak flux was found to be invalid when the flame-quenching process was disrupted by the pressure fluctuations for pressure oscillations with a characteristic time on the order of the quenching process.
Inhibition of nuclear factor κB chemosensitizes non–small cell lung cancer through cytochrome c release and caspase activation ☆ ☆☆ ★ ★★

Abstract Objective: Although we have previously shown that inhibition of nuclear factor κB sensitizes non–small cell lung cancer cells to chemotherapy-mediated cell death, the apoptotic pathways mediating this process are unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine whether chemosensitivity after the inhibition of nuclear factor κB in non–small cell lung cancer cells is a mitochondrial and caspase-mediated process and whether it is dependent on nuclear factor κB transcriptional activity. Methods: Previously described H157 non–small cell lung cancer cells were treated with gemcitabine, and DNA fragmentation was determined. Caspase 3, 6, 7, 8, and 9 activity in cytoplasmic extracts was determined fluorometrically. The mitochondrial permeability index and cytosolic cytochrome c levels were also determined. The caspase inhibitor Boc-D, as well as nuclear factor κB–regulated gene products A1, c-IAP-2, and Bcl-X L , were added to H157 cells lacking nuclear factor κB and the degree of apoptosis assessed. All experiments were performed in triplicate, and data significance was determined by means of analysis of variance. Results: Non–small cell lung cancer cells lacking functional nuclear factor κB (H157I) underwent more apoptosis after chemotherapy than vector control cells (H157V). There was an increase in the mitochondrial permeability index and cytochrome c release after chemotherapy in the H157I cells. H157I cells also had more activation of caspases 3 and 9 than control cells. Inhibition of caspase activity or transfection with nuclear factor κB–regulated gene products rescued cell death after the inhibition of nuclear factor κB. Conclusion: Chemosensitization by means of inhibition of nuclear factor κB in non–small cell lung cancer cells occurs through increased cytochrome c release and caspase 3 and 9 activation. Inhibition of nuclear factor κB or its gene products in addition to chemotherapy warrants further study as a treatment strategy in patients with advanced-stage non–small cell lung cancer.
The erythrocyte indices of neonates, defined using data from over 12 000 patients in a multihospital health care system

The erythrocyte indices of neonates, defined using data from over 12 000 patients in a multihospital health care system
Survival of Thermally Injured Rats Infused with Saline, Polyvinylpyrrolidone, Dextran and Oxypolygelatin

Summary1. Ten-day survival percentages are recorded for severely burned rats, infused with saline and several macromolecular solutions and for the simultaneous untreated controls, a) Hypertonic saline solutions were more effective in promoting survival than isotonic saline solutions, b) Effectiveness of the macromolecular solutions in promoting survival decreased as the concentration of these substances was increased, c) Due to the specific allergic reaction of rats to Dextran, the relative effectiveness of this plasma expander could not be ascertained. 2. Hematocrit data recorded in terms of per cent of initial values are given for several animals in all groups, a) Hypertonic saline solutions tend to maintain a cell-plasma ratio more nearly approaching the initial than isotonic solutions, b) Increased hemodilution followed infusions of the higher concentrations of macromolecular substances. c) Hemodilution in general cannot be directly correlated with survival; however, the lowest hemodilution values wer...
Light-Induced Electron Spin Resonance in Gate-Quality Nitrogen-Rich Amorphous Silicon Nitride: Photo-Production and Photo-Bleaching

Electron spin resonance spectroscopy is used to monitor the light-induced, paramagnetic (neutral) defect density in gate-quality nitrogen-rich hydrogenated amorphous silicon nitride (a-SiN1.6:H) thin films. A new phenomenon has been observed in which the light-induced electron spin resonance (LESR) signal can be reduced (photo-bleached) by re-illuminating with monochromatic light. The extent to which the LESR signal is bleached depends strongly upon the incident photon energy used for re-illumination. Photo-bleaching as well as the photo-production of the LESR signal follow a stretched exponential dependence upon illumination time.
Recovery from spinal cord injury: a new transection model in the C57Bl/6 mouse.

Spinal cord transections in mammalian animal models lead to loss of motor function. In this study, we show that functional recovery from complete transection of the adult mouse spinal cord can in fact occur without any intervention if dural injury along with displacement of the ends of the cut cord and fibroblastic infiltration is minimized. Underlying this function is the expression of GAP-43 in axonal growth cones, axonal extension and bridging of the injury site indicated by biocytin retrograde tracing and neuronal remodeling of both the white matter and the gray matter. Such studies suggest a new murine model for the study of spinal cord regeneration.
A prognosis for the rural hospital. Part I: What is the role of the rural hospital?

The rural hospital is a vital component of the rural health care delivery system and an important institution in rural communities. In recent years, considerable concern has been expressed over the future of these institutions, many of which have experienced serious difficulties in maintaining financial viability. The problems facing many rural hospitals today result from a number of interrelated factors, both internal and external, that determine the environment within which the rural hospital operates and affect its performance. This is the first of a two-part series that: (1) provides an objective review and critical analysis of what is known and what is not known from the existing body of research on the performance of rural hospitals; (2) identifies and examines the influence of the major external factors which affect viability; and (3) outlines potential options and strategies for strengthening the viability of these institutions. Part I addresses the issues of scope of services and quality of care in rural hospitals.
Hydroxylapatite synthesis and characterization in dense polycrystalline form

A new process is described for preparing dense, polycrystalline hydroxylapatite. This material has close to theoretical density and is free of fine pores and second phases. The best material has an average compressive strength of 917 MN m−2 (133×103 psi), and polished samples have an average tensile strength of 196 MN m−2 (28.4×103 psi). The material is highly translucent, and the degree of translucence depends upon processing conditions. The relationship between processing variables and microstructure, strength, and translucence is described. This dense hydroxylapatite has good promise for bone implants and dental applications.
A dynamic model of a double-helical planetary gear set

Abstract A linear, time-invariant model of a double-helical planetary gear set is proposed in this paper. The model formulation allows the analysis of a gear set with any number of planets, any planet phasing and spacing configurations and any support conditions. Torsional, transverse, axial and rotational (rocking) motions of gears and the planet carrier are included in this three-dimensional model. Planets are allowed to be positioned equally or unequally spaced around the sun gear. The natural modes are computed by solving the corresponding Eigen value problem. The modal summation technique is used to find the forced response due to periodic gear mesh excitations under constant or proportional modal damping conditions. An example gear set consisting of four equally-spaced planets is considered at the end to demonstrate the influence of key design parameters including right-to-left stagger angle, and support conditions on the dynamic response of the double-helical planetary gear system. Numerous modes with dominant tilting motions are predicted to underline the essence of using a 3D formulation for double helical gears. Staggering of gear teeth is shown to impact the dynamic response of the gear system substantially. Different values of stagger are shown excite different types of modes, resulting in different dynamic response curves. It is also found that left and right sides of double helical gears can carry equal or different dynamic load amplitudes based on the right-to-left stagger values. Likewise the influence of the sun support conditions is shown to be more pronounced for the case of a non-zero stagger.
Psychometric functions for pure tone intensity discrimination: Slope differences in school-aged children and adults

Previous work on pure tone intensity discrimination in school-aged children concluded that children might have higher levels of internal noise than adults for this task [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 120, 2777-2788 (2006)]. If true, this would imply that psychometric function slopes are shallower for children than adults, a prediction that was tested in the present experiment. Normal hearing children (5-9 yr) and adults were tested in a two-stage protocol. The first stage used a tracking procedure to estimate 71% correct for intensity discrimination with a gated 500 Hz pure tone and a 65 dB sound pressure level standard level. The mean and standard deviation of these tracks were used to identify a set of five signal levels for each observer. In the second stage of the experiment percent correct was estimated at these five levels. Psychometric functions fitted to these data were significantly shallower for children than adults, as predicted by the internal noise hypothesis. Data from both stages of testing are consistent with a model wherein performance is based on a stable psychometric function, with sensitivity limited by psychometric function slope. Across observers the relationship between slope and threshold conformed closely to predictions of a simple signal detection model.
Phospholipids in X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy white matter: fatty acid abnormalities before the onset of demyelination

Changes in fatty acid composition of complex lipids were analyzed in postmortem white matter from a patient with late onset adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD). The specimen showed three regions with progressive myelin breakdown: morphologically normal white matter; areas with active demyelination and perivascular lymphocyte and macrophage infiltration; and areas with marked gliosis. In the morphologically intact region, cholesterol esters were similar in amount and fatty acid composition to those in control tissue, although marked changes were observed in the actively demyelinating area. Galactolipids in these areas were also similar to those in controls. In contrast, glycerophospholipids were increased in amount and in very long chain fatty acids (VLCFA), which are the hallmark of ALD, at the active edge of the demyelinative lesion and even in the apparently intact sample. Further fractionation of the glycerophospholipids by high performance liquid chromatography showed a significant (up to 39-fold) accumulation of hexacosanoic acid (C26:0) in phosphatidylcholine, but not in other phosphatidyl derivatives. The consistent increases in phosphatidylcholine VLCFA in all samples from the ALD brain, which are postulated to represent progressive stages in the development of the disorder, suggest that phosphatidylcholine may be involved in antigen formation and may underlie an immunological basis for the pathogenesis of ALD.
Maritime piracy in Africa: The humanitarian dimension

Maritime piracy has been a challenge for mariners as long as ships have gone to sea. In ancient times, Julius Caesar was captured and held for ransom by pirates. More recently, but still in the historical past, pirates have challenged merchant shipping from the Spanish Main to the Barbary Coast, and in Asia the famous 'pirate queen' Cheng I Sao commanded a fleet of hundreds of vessels.
Improved outcome after intestinal transplantation at a single institution over 12 years.

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the outcomes of patients undergoing intestinal transplantation (IT). Methods Retrospective review was undertaken using existing medical records and database. Results Between November 1991 and May 2003, 114 patients were referred for consideration for IT, of which 33 patients received 37 intestinal allografts. All patients had intestinal failure and all patients had significant complications from total parenteral nutrition (TPN). TPN was the predominant cause of liver failure (63%). Combined liver intestinal grafts were used in the majority of patients. Overall 1- and 3-year patient survival is 77% and 52% with patients transplanted since 1999 having a 1- and 3-year survival of 94% and 73%, respectively. The most common cause of death was sepsis. No graft or patient was lost to cytomegalovirus or Epstein-Barr virus disease. Twenty-seven percent of allografts were lost to rejection. Long-term TPN independence is 82% for grafts more than 30 days after IT. Statistical analysis revealed several important factors impacting outcome. Conclusions Successful IT defined as prolonged patient and graft survival and TPN independence can be readily achieved in select patients with IF and complications related to TPN therapy. Outcomes have improved with experience gained and control of viral infections and rejection.
Salmonella berta meningitis in a term neonate

We report the case of a 37-week male infant born via spontaneous vaginal delivery who developed Salmonella berta sepsis and meningitis. The infant was born to a mother with active diarrhea and stool cultures growing S. berta. On day 3, the infant developed poor feeding, lethargy, apnea and bradycardia prompting a sepsis evaluation. Blood, stool and cerebrospinal fluid cultures were positive for S. berta. An electroencephalogram performed for posturing revealed neonatal status epilepticus. Extensive bilateral periventricular venous hemorrhagic infarctions with multiple herniations were seen on brain magnetic resonance imaging. The infant's condition continued to deteriorate despite maximal support and care was redirected towards comfort measures.
Prediction of Gear Dynamics Using Fast Fourier Transform of Static Transmission Error

ABSTRACT An analytical computer simulation procedure for dynamic modeling of low-contact-ratio spur gear systems is presented. The procedure computes the gear static transmission error and uses a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) to generate its frequency spectrum at various tooth profile modifications. The dynamic loading response of an unmodified (perfect involut) gear pair is compared with that of gears with profile modifications. Correlations are found between several profile modifications and the resulting dynamic loads. An effective error, obtained from frequency domain anal
The UV sensitivity of some early-function temperature-sensitive mutants of phage T4.

Temperature-sensitive (ts) mutants of phage T4 defective in ten early function genes were tested for sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) light. The mutants were irradiated, plated on Escherichia coliS6, and incubated at various temperatures from 18 to 45°. UV sensitivity was shown by ts mutants defective in genes 30 (polynucleotide ligase), 32 (“joint former”), 41 (function unknown), 42 (deoxycytidylate hydroxymethylase), 43 (DNA polymerase), 44 (function unknown), 46 and 47 (deoxyribonucleases). Ts mutations in genes 45 (function unknown) and 56 (dCTP-dUTP nucleotidohydrolase) did not lead to UV sensitivity. The UV sensitivity of mutants defective in genes 30, 43, 46, and 47 is consistent with the model of DNA repair by excision. The observation that eight of ten early function genes contain UV-sensitive mutants is thought to reflect the complexity of the process of UV repair in T4-infected cells.
Norms of size and annual increments of six anatomical measures of the cranium in boys and girls from four to fifteen years of age

Norms of size and annual increments of six cranial dimensions are presented. The sample consists of 20 boys and 23 girls observed longitudinally from 4 to 15 years of age. The reported measurements are corrected for magnification of distortion and represent actual size rather than a roentgenographic projection. The dimensions of the cranial vault are observed to be closer to the adult size at age four years than the dimension involving the cranial base. The cranial base dimension continues to grow until adolescence. The elongation in cranial base dimensions during adolescence may be attributed to bone deposition on glabella.
Towards a system for the interpretation of moving light displays

Lights is a system for the interpretation of simple moving light displays (MLD) of jointed objects against a stationary background. The displays studied differ from those examined by previous researchers in that 1) objects are represented by a relatively small number of points, 2) objects are not rigid, and 3) the viewing geometry is such that highly varying degrees of perspective distortion occur. An algorithm is presented which segments the points of an MLD of a wire-frame man into body parts. The relationship of this algorithm to previous theories of MLD perception and actual human performance is discussed.
Composition of proteoglycans from human atherosclerotic lesions

Proteoglycans from human atherosclerotic lesions and from uninvolved aortic intima were isolated and their composition was studied. The tissues were sequentially extracted by guanidine hydrochloride followed by hydrolysis of the tissue by elastase. Chondroitin sulfate/dermatan sulfate proteoglycans were predominant in guanidine hydrochloride extracts of the tissue. Most of the heparan sulfate proteoglycans were released from the tissue by hydrolysis with elastase. The content of proteoglycan material, measured as uronate per unit weight of wet tissue, was lower in fatty streaks and fibrous plaques than in uninvolved tissue (0.58 and 0.48 mg vs. 0.7 mg/g wet tissue). The distribution of different glycosaminoglycans in guanidine hydrochloride-extracted proteoglycans was similar among the lesions and uninvolved tissue, but varied in the elastase-hydrolyzed extracts. Gel filtration studies suggested that the major proteoglycan material, chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans, from lesions had greater molecular weight than proteoglycans from uninvolved tissue. The studies indicate that alteration in intrinsic composition and molecular size of proteoglycans occurs in atherosclerotic lesions.
Loss of patients in clinical trials that measure long-term survival following myocardial infarction.

Loss of patients from clinical trials can nullify adequate randomization if the loss is unequally distributed among treatment groups. This study was designed to assess the magnitude of the problem in randomized control trials evaluating long-term therapy for survivors of myocardial infarction (MI). Only 19 of 52 trials reported having an explicit policy on withdrawals in the design stage; only 2 reported blinding the decision for withdrawal and only reported accounting for withdrawals in sizing. In addition, only 16 gave the reader enough information to calculate the effect of withdrawals on trial results. In 2 of these 16 trials a p > 0.05 result obtained by including withdrawals (intention to treat method) was reduced to p < 0.05 when withdrawals were excluded. It is evident that many long-term trials do not contain adequate data on withdrawals. Readers of published trials are seldom able to judge whether or not withdrawals might affect the final results.
Detection of phase objects in transparent liquids using nonlinear coupling in BaTiO3 crystal

Coherent two-wave coupling in a photorefractive crystal (PRC) BaTiO3 is used to detect the presence of impurities (phase objects) in transparent liquids. Glass pieces of 100 microndiameter are easily detectable with a reliability of better than 96%.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Sphingosine-1-phosphate in Chronic Intestinal Inflammation and Cancer

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), a pleiotropic bioactive lipid mediator, and the kinase that produces it have now emerged as key regulators of numerous cellular processes involved in inflammation and cancer. Here, we review the importance of S1P in colitis and colitis-associated cancer (CAC) and discuss our recent work demonstrating that S1P produced by upregulation of SphK1 during colitis and associated cancer is essential for production of the multifunctional NF-κB-regulated cytokine IL-6, persistent activation of the transcription factor Stat3, and consequent upregulation of the S1P receptor, S1PR1. The effectiveness of the pro-drug FTY720 (known as fingolimod), approved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, has become the gold standard for S1P-centric drugs, and will be used to illustrate the therapeutic value of modulating SphK1 and S1P receptor functions. We will discuss our recent results showing that FTY720/fingolimod administration interferes with the SphK1/S1P/S1PR1 axis and suppresses the NF-κB/IL-6/Stat3 malicious amplification loop and CAC. These preclinical studies suggest that FTY720/fingolimod may be useful in treating colon cancer in individuals with ulcerative colitis.
Nonlethal amphibian skin swabbing of cutaneous natural products for HPLC fingerprinting

Small organic molecules found on the skin of amphibians may help impart resistance to pathogens, such as the lethal fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. The study of these compounds has traditionally required euthanasia of the amphibian, followed by chemical extraction of excised skin. As an alternative method, we report the development and assessment of a non-lethal technique using foam-tipped swabs and HPLC analysis to directly isolate and characterize small molecules found on the skin of amphibians. This protocol was field-tested on Bioko Island, Equatorial Guinea with forty-seven frogs (representing 14 native species). Multiple species (particularly Afrixalus paradorsalis and Didynamipus sjostedti) carried sets of species-specific compounds (i.e., a chromatographic fingerprint). A principal coordinate analysis (PCO) of the commonly occurring compounds detected across all species revealed a significant relationship between chromatographic profile and species for all swab samples.
Formation of lithium fluoride/metal nanocomposites for energy storage through solid state reduction of metal fluorides

Abstract In order to utilize high energy metal fluoride electrode materials as direct replacement electrode materials for lithium ion batteries in the future, a methodology to prelithiate the cathode or anode must be developed. Herein, we introduce the use of a solid state Li3N route to achieve the lithiation and mechanoreduction of metal fluoride based nanocomposites. The resulting prelithiation was found to be effective with the formation of xLiF:Me structures of very fine nanodimensions analogous to what is found by electrochemical lithiation. Physical and electrochemical properties of these nanocomposites for the bismuth and iron lithium fluoride systems are reported.
Thoracoabdominal Esophagectomy for Cancer of the Gastroesophageal Junction

The left thoracoabdominal esophagogastrectomy has for many years been the standard approach for resection and reconstruction of the gastroesophageal junction. It provides excellent exposure for en bloc dissection, placement of the esophageal substitute, and performance of the anastomosis. It is an approach that should be familiar to all thoracic surgeons for the variety of problems that present in this area of the body.
Music Aptitude Profile Scores in a Noninstitutionalized, Elderly Population

This study attempted to determine if persons in a noninstitutionalized, elderly population vary significantly in musical discrimination abilities as indicated by scores on the Musical Aptitude Prof...
Pregnancy despite continued elevation of prolactin levels while on bromergocryptine

A case of long standing secondary amenorrhea with hyperprolactinemia and pregnancy success despite inability to normalize prolactin levels with high doses of bromergocryptine is presented.
Grammatical knowledge of Korean heritage speakers: Early vs. late bilinguals

This paper examines the effects of onset age of exposure to a dominant language (English) with respect to Korean heritage speakers’ knowledge of unaccusativity involving quantifier float. In an attempt to see how the acquisition of heritage grammar is affected by this factor, the present study compares two groups of heritage speakers: early (US-born, n = 13) and late (Korean-born, n = 14) bilinguals. The results show that compared to the late bilinguals, the early bilinguals did not give differential ratings to unergative and unaccusative verbs, which confirms the widely noted observation that the earlier onset age of exposure to English is, the more likely heritage speakers’ linguistic knowledge of the heritage language is incomplete. In addition, the results show that incomplete knowledge was also found with the late bilinguals (mean onset age 9), in that they did not accept unaccusative verbs as strongly as the native controls did.
Evidence for enzymatic thioltransacetylation in plant extracts

Abstract Triton X100 extracts prepared from acetone powders of mung bean roots acetylate β-mercaptoethanol and l -cysteine in the presence of acetyl-CoA. This activity can be destroyed by boiling the extracts. No activity could be detected if extracts were prepared without Triton X100, indicating that the enzyme or enzymes involved are probably membrane-bound.
Brain superoxide anion generation in asphyxiated piglets and the effect of indomethacin at therapeutic dose.

ABSTRACT: We have previously shown that generation of superoxide anion occurs in cerebral cortex during asphyxia/reventilation in newborn pigs and that a high dose of indornethacin (5 mg/kg i.v.) abolishes superoxide anion production. The purposes of this study were 1) to determine whether the generation of superoxide anion occurs primarily during asphyxia or whether reventilation must take place, 2) to investigate the effects of indornethacin pretreatment at a therapeutic dose of 0.2 mg/kg i.v. on superoxide anion generation, and 3) to investigate the effects of oxypurinol, an oxygen free radical scavenger, on superoxide anion production during asphyxia/reventilation. Superoxide anion production on cerebral cortex was determined by superoxide dismutase-inhibitable nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction using closed cranial windows. Superoxideanion generation during asphyxia without reventilation was 4 ± 2 pmol NBT/mm2 per 20 min, which was significantly lower than during asphyxia/reventilation (16 ± 4 pmol NBT/mm2 per 20 min) but comparable to the control group (3 ± 1 pmol NBT/mm2 per 20 min). Indomethacin given at therapeutic dosage before asphyxia/reventilation decreased superoxide anion production to 3 ± 1 pmol NBT/mm2 per 20 min, values not significantly different from the control group and from piglets pretreated with oxypurinol at a dose of 50 mg/kg i.v. (4 ± 2 pmol NBT/mm2 per 20 min). We conclude that in newborn pigs 1) superoxide anions are generated largely during reventilation rather than during asphyxia; 2) the therapeutic dose of indomethacin (0.2 mg/kg) is effective in inhibiting the superoxide anion generation during asphyxia/reventilation; and 3) oxypurinol reduces the superoxide anion accumulation on cerebral cortex during asphyxia/reventilation.
Fieldwork in Forbidden Terrain: The U.S. State and the Case of Cuba

This paper introduces the concept of forbidden research terrains and examines one such terrain in detail: post-revolutionary Cuba. After exploring the characteristics of this forbidden research terrain, the paper examines how it was initially created. Through an historical analysis of U.S.-Cuban relations between 1959 and mid-1960, Cuba’s forbidden designation is shown to be the result of U.S. actions prompted by the very broad conception of U.S. interests held by state decision makers. Next, the consequences of Cuba’s forbidden status are investigated and found to include heightened state power in the foreign policy arena. The paper concludes with a brief discussion of other possible forbidden research terrains which are also politically inspired.
A quadratically convergent O k +1 n L -iteration algorithm for the P * k -matrix linear complementarity problem

An interior-point predictor-corrector algorithm for theP *(κ)-matrix linear complementarity problem is proposed. The algorithm is an extension of Mizuno—Todd—Ye's predictor—corrector algorithm for linear programming problem. The extended algorithm is quadratically convergent with iteration complexity $$O((\kappa + 1)\sqrt n L)$$ . It is the first polynomially and quadratically convergent algorithm for a class of LCPs that are not necessarily monotone.
AlkB reverses etheno DNA lesions caused by lipid oxidation in vitro and in vivo

Oxidative stress converts lipids into DNA-damaging agents. The genomic lesions formed include 1,N6-ethenoadenine (eA) and 3,N4-ethenocytosine (eC), in which two carbons of the lipid alkyl chain form an exocyclic adduct with a DNA base. Here we show that the newly characterized enzyme AlkB repairs eA and eC. The potent toxicity and mutagenicity of eA in Escherichia coli lacking AlkB was reversed in AlkB+ cells; AlkB also mitigated the effects of eC. In vitro, AlkB cleaved the lipid-derived alkyl chain from DNA, causing eA and eC to revert to adenine and cytosine, respectively. Biochemically, eA is epoxidized at the etheno bond. The epoxide is putatively hydrolyzed to a glycol, and the glycol moiety is released as glyoxal. These reactions show a previously unrecognized chemical versatility of AlkB. In mammals, the corresponding AlkB homologs may defend against aging, cancer and oxidative stress.