cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influence of Fat and Carbohydrate Source on Rate of Food Passage of Semipurified Diets for Laying Hens

Abstract An experiment was conducted with White Leghorn hens to determine the influence of supplemental yellow grease and carbohydrate source on rate of food passage (ROP). Two levels of yellow grease (0 and 7%) and two carbohydrate sources (sucrose and starch) were tested in a complete 2 × 2 arrangement. The ROP was determined by utilizing either Cr2 O3 or 144Ce as nonabsorbable markers. First appearance of the markers in the excreta and percentages of the markers ingested that were recovered in feces 9.5 to 11.5 hr after feeding were criteria used to determine ROP. The ROP varied with the composition of the diet. Diets containing starch had a slower ROP than diets containing sucrose (first appearance time was 156 vs. 127 min, respectively). Also, yellow grease supplementation decreased ROP from 150 to 133 min. The ROP of sucrose-containing diets was decreased more by fat supplementation than the ROP of starch-containing diets (32 vs. 3 min, respectively). Similar trends were observed when ROP was measured as percentage of marker recovered in feces 9.5 to 11.5 hr after feeding. The results show that supplemental fat decreased ROP in chickens. This observation may help in understanding the nature of the extrametabolic or extracaloric effect of fat in poultry diets. With decreased ROP, the diet will be more thoroughly digested and absorbed and, thereby, more energy may be derived from a diet if fat is added than if not.
Adaptation of an Adolescent Coping Assessment for Therapeutic Recreation and Outdoor Adventure Settings

This study addresses the need for sound assessments to measure adolescent coping in therapeutic recreation, wilderness and adventure therapy settings. Although consideration was given to developing a new measure, a well-developed general coping measure exists, and the authors indicated a need to adapt it to specific settings. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to adapt the Response to Stress Questionnaire (RSQ) for use in adventure-based therapeutic settings. Appropriate content was identified and items were adapted to create RSQ Outdoor Adventure Version (RSQ-OAV). These items were then evaluated for representativeness and relevance to provide content validity. An expert panel conducted a blind review by mapping the items based on content areas. The instrument was then administered to subjects to gather evidence supporting the reliability and validity of inferences. The RSQ-OAV provides a foundation for future research and understanding related to outdoor adventure coping skills in therapeutic recreation settings.
Enhanced diagnostic value for coronary CT angiography of calcified coronary arteries using dual energy and a novel high-Z contrast material: a phantom study

Dual-energy CT is emerging as a dose-saving tool for coronary CT angiography that allows calcium-scoring without the need for a separate unenhanced scan acquisition. Unfortunately the similar attenuation coefficient profiles of iodine and calcium limits the accuracy of their decomposition in the material basis images. We evaluate a tungsten-based contrast material with a more distinct attenuation profile from calcium, and compare its performance to a conventional iodinated agent. We constructed a custom thorax phantom containing simulated sets of vessels 3, 6 and 9 mm in diameter. The vessel sets were walled with concentric and eccentric calcifications (“plaque”) with concentrations of 0, 20, 30 and 40% weight calcium hydroxyapatite (HAP). The phantom was filled sequentially with iodine and tungsten contrast material, and scanned helically using a fast-kV-switching DECT scanner. At material decomposition, both iodine and tungsten vessel lumens were separable from the HAP vessel walls, but separation was superior with tungsten which showed minimal false positive signal in the HAP image. Assessing their relative performance using line profiles, the HAP signal was greater in the tungsten separation in 6/9 of the vessel sets, and within 15% of the iodine separation for the remaining 3/9 sets. The robust phantom design enabled systematic evaluation of dual-energy material separation for calcium and a candidate non-iodinated vascular contrast element. This approach can be used to screen further agents and also refine dual energy CT material decomposition approaches.
When is the Pig in the Parlor?: The Interface of Legal and Aesthetic Considerations

When Is the Pig in the Parlor?: The Interface of Legal and Aesthetic ConsiderationsAuthor(s): Richard C. SmardonSource: Environmental Review: ER, Vol. 8, No. 2 (Summer, 1984), pp. 146-161Published by: Forest History Society and American Society for Environmental HistoryStable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/3984192Accessed: 25/05/2010 11:35
Analysis of the distribution of the sputum pathogens and the drug sensitivity of in-patients with the pulmonary tumor

Objective: To analyze the distribution of the sputum pathogens and the drug resistance of in-patients with the pulmonary tumor to provide the reference for the clinical reasonable application of drugs. Methods: Six hundred and eighteen sputum specimens from the in-patients with the pulmonary tumor in Punan Hospital from 2009-2013 were collected. The pathogens were isolated, and their distribution and drug resistance were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Six hundred and eighty-nine strains of pathogens were isolated from 618 sputum specimens. In 429(62.3%) strains of gram-negative bacilli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia and Escherichia coli were dominant. In 140(20.3%) stains of gram-positive bacilli, coagulase-negative staphylococci and staphylococcus aureus were dominant. In 120(17.4%) stains of fungi, Candida albicans was dominant. The rates of the resistance to antimicrobial agents were different among bacteria. The Pseudomonas aeruginosa had the relatively low drug resistance to imipenem, cefoperazone and sulbactam. The Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli kept the high sensibility to imipenem and meropenem, but had a high resistance to penicillins and cefuroxime. The gram-positive cocci had a high sensitivity to teicoplanin and vancomycin. Conclusion: The sputum pathogens in the inpatients with the pulmonary tumor are mainly the gram-negative bacilli, and the main pathogens had the serious drug resistance to the commonly used antibiotics. It should be paid higher attention to the pathogen distribution and their drug resistance.The instruction of the reasonable and standardized anti-infective treatment should be given to the clinician.
Germany, 1890–1918: A Survey of Recent Research

On New Year's Eve 1890 Hildegard, Baroness von Spitzemberg recorded these reflections in her diary:The end of 1890: the year in which Bismarck left the global stage, not called by death but dismissed against his will. That in itself would be sufficient to make this year unforgettable; who knows if this experience, this past year will become a milestone in German history.… We confront the last decade of the century under the banner of a new generation which rushes with full sail into the heavy sea of time, its impetuous emperor prematurely in command. Towards what? That we may know all too soon—or better all too late—when the reefs rise threateningly before us and there is no experienced mariner at the helm.
Leiomyosarcoma of the penis

The third case of leiomyosarcoma of the foreskin is reported. A review of the literature indicates that this lesion, which is similar to cutaneous leiomyosarcoma that is seen elsewhere in the body, has a low grade of malignancy. This finding is in contrast to leiomyosarcoma of the penis, which arises in deep structures and tends to metastasize. Circumcision appears to be the most effective treatment for leiomyosarcoma of the foreskin.
Women's Voices, Men's Lives: Masculinity in a North Indian Urdu newspaper*

Literary journals and newspapers aiming to reform the religious beliefs and domestic habits of women were common in early twentieth-century North India. Although most readings have focused on how these texts reflected male legislation of women's behaviour, we should look at Muslim reformist literature to understand male experiences; this investigation offers new insights into an emergent middle-class identity defined more by manners than birth. Readings of a previously little-researched Urdu newspaper, Madinah, and its women's section offer new insights on male experiences of reformism, characterized by profound ambivalence. Playfulness emerged in some reformist descriptions of women's voices, channelling the influence of rekhti. Ultimately Madinah cultivated pride in Islam's strict division of gender roles and conversely threatened men with shame for failing to regulate uneducated women. Descriptions of powerful, Ottoman women warriors were framed to incite men to acts of bravery, using reports from Europe as cautionary examples of the over-indulgence of women. While the newspaper offered outlets for men to express curiosity about women's experiences, ultimately reformist literature limited expressions of pleasure. Male ambivalence regarding the implications of the reformist project remained embedded in writing about women.
Diagnosis and treatment of a rare sinonasal neuroendocrine tumour: adding to the evidence

Sinonasal neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are rare, aggressive neoplasms with a high recurrence potential. There are no robust protocols for the management of these tumours. An 81-year-old man presented with an incidental sinonasal mass visualised on CT scan of head. Over the next few weeks he developed new onset, progressively worsening headache, right eye ptosis and restricted extraocular movements. Imaging confirmed a rapidly enlarging tumour involving the right nasal cavity and the orbit. Biopsy showed a large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the right ethmoidal sinus. The patient was treated with concurrent cisplatin chemotherapy and radiation. Repeat imaging showed decrease in tumour volume. The patient continues to do well and follows up regularly with our oncology service. Current protocols comprising chemotherapy after radiation are based on limited studies. A regimen involving concurrent chemoradiation also appears to aid in tumour volume reduction. Additional studies are required to formulate robust clinical protocols for management of sinonasal NETs.
Long-term e-cigarette use and smoking cessation: a longitudinal study with US population.

Background E-cigarettes have grown popular. The most common pattern is dual use with conventional cigarettes. Dual use has raised concerns that it might delay quitting of cigarette smoking. This study examined the relationship between long-term use of e-cigarettes and smoking cessation in a 2-year period. Methods A nationally representative sample of 2028 US smokers were surveyed in 2012 and 2014. Long-term e-cigarette use was defined as using e-cigarettes at baseline and follow-up. Use of e-cigarettes only at baseline or at follow-up was defined as short-term use. Non-users did not use e-cigarettes at either survey. Quit attempt rates and cessation rates (abstinent for 3 months or longer) were compared across the three groups. Results At 2-year follow-up, 43.7% of baseline dual users were still using e-cigarettes. Long-term e-cigarette users had a higher quit attempt rate than short-term or non-users (72.6% vs 53.8% and 45.5%, respectively), and a higher cessation rate (42.4% vs 14.2% and 15.6%, respectively). The difference in cessation rate between long-term users and non-users remained significant after adjusting for baseline variables, OR=4.1 (95% CI 1.5 to 11.4) as did the difference between long-term users and short-term users, OR=4.8 (95% CI 1.6 to 13.9). The difference in cessation rate between short-term users and non-users was not significant, OR=0.9 (95% CI 0.5 to 1.4). Among those making a quit attempt, use of e-cigarettes as a cessation aid surpassed that of FDA-approved pharmacotherapy. Conclusions Short-term e-cigarette use was not associated with a lower rate of smoking cessation. Long-term use of e-cigarettes was associated with a higher rate of quitting smoking.
A Quality Value Chain Network: Linking Supply Chain Quality to Customer Lifetime Value

We create a quality value chain network concept to analyze the impact of supply chain quality (SCQ) on the customer lifetime value (CLV). We apply our framework to a rich dataset from a major restaurant chain utilizing text analysis of the complaints to measure SCQ, a two-stage least squares (2SLS) model with instruments to assess the impact of SCQ on customer experience, and a structural model of consumer purchasing behavior to eventually link customer experience to CLV. Note that we consider not only the impact of customer experience at the focal store but also that from adjacent stores on CLV. Considering such network effect significantly improves the model performance in predicting customer behavior and quantification of financial returns. We identify the profile of the most valuable customers and provide insights on which SCQ issues the supply chain should focus on, and which restaurants should be prioritized for supply chain improvements.
Exposure- and Dose-response Analyses in Dose Selection and Labeling of FDA-approved Biologics.

Abstract Purpose Biological drug products, or products derived from living cells, represent an increasingly important part of the pharmaceutical market. Despite this, little is known about how sponsors determine the dose to be studied in registrational trials or to be proposed in labeling for biologics. We examined how exposure–response and dose–response analyses were used to determine dosing in pivotal trials or the labeling for all biologics approved by the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) between 2003 and 2016. Methods We extracted relevant characteristics of each biologic from its review package by FDA. We used descriptive statistics to characterize the rationale for the selected dose(s) in registration trials, with a particular focus on the role of exposure–response/dose–response analyses. We also examined how exposure–response/dose–response analyses were used to support the labeling dose and the basis for postmarketing requirements or commitments related to dose optimization. Findings A total of 79 biologics license applications were examined. Dose selection in registrational trials was more often attributed to clinical efficacy (73% of applications) than to clinical safety (42%). The dosing of products whose dose was apparently selected based on clinical efficacy was often (72%) determined by the dose–response relationship. In support of doses that were described in labeling, exposure–response analyses for efficacy were performed more commonly (53%) than dose–response analyses (21%). This trend was apparent after 2012. Implications This is the first study to summarize the justification of dose selection and the labeled dose of biologics approved by the FDA. Dose–response analyses have been often used as the rationale for dose selection of registrational studies, although exposure–response analyses are becoming more prevalent in support of the dosing guidelines in labeling.
In vivo, two-color multiphoton microscopy using a femtosecond diamond Raman laser

Multiphoton microscopy is an essential tool for detailed study of neurovascular structure and function. Wavelength mixing of synchronized laser sources—two-color multiphoton microscopy—increases the spectral window of excitable fluorophores without the need for wavelength tuning. However, implementation of two-color microscopy requires a dual output laser source, which is typically costly and complicated. We have developed a relatively simple and low-cost diamond Raman laser pumped with a ytterbium fiber amplifier. The dual output system generates excitation light at both 1060 nm (pump wavelength) and 1250 nm (first Stokes emission of diamond laser) which, when temporally and spatially overlapped, yield an effective two-color excitation wavelength of 1160 nm. This source provides an almost complete coverage of fluorophores excitable within the range of 1000-1300 nm. When compared with 1060 nm excitation, twocolor excitation at 1160 nm offers a 90% increase in signal for many far-red emitting fluorescent proteins (e.g. tdKatushka2). We demonstrate multicolor imaging of tdKatushka2 and Hoechst 33342 via simultaneous two-color twophoton, and two-color three-photon microscopy in engineered 3-D multicellular spheroids. Additionally, we show that this laser system is capable of in vivo imaging in mouse cortex to nearly 1 mm in depth with two-color excitation. This system can also be used to excite genetically encoded calcium indicators (e.g. RCaMP and GCaMP), which will be paramount in studying neuronal activity.
Spatial price discrimination, sequential location and convex production costs

Simultaneous location is known to be socially superior to sequential location under spatial price discrimination given constant marginal production costs. For the first time I demonstrate that sequential location can be socially superior to simultaneous location given convex production costs. The asymmetric sequential locations lower the sum of production and transport cost below the symmetric but inefficiently distant simultaneous locations.
Coming around: Tutors, orientation, and prolepsis

Novice tutors often conceptualize learning how to tutor as a kind of metaphorical journey, one with a compelling, but not fully recognized, destination. Cognitively speaking, they are learning how to tutor while at the same time learning what the activity of tutoring means. This paper seeks to position tutor education within the conceptually rich field of teacher education, especially as it is informed by insights from sociocultural theory (SCT). Using tutors’ reflective narratives, the author illuminates how orientation to task, a fundamental concept in SCT, changes over time through frequent and intensive reflective writing, when carried out in combination with practical tutoring activities. Specifically, the data suggests that proleptic engagement (identifying elements of the future expert self in ongoing novice activity) and affective engagement are important signals of development. The journey is particularly challenging because – to interrogate the metaphor – the novice is trying to build the track while riding the train to the terminus.
Proceedings of the 3rd Innovations in Theoretical Computer Science Conference

The papers in this volume were presented at the 3rd Innovations in Theoretical Computer Science (ITCS 2012) conference, sponsored by the ACM Special Interest Group on Algorithms and Computation Theory (SIGACT). The conference was held in Cambridge, MA, USA, January 8-10, 2012.
Dueling Narratives of a Reader Labeled as Struggling: Positioning, Emotion, and Power Within Four Differing English Course Contexts

Using theories of positioning, emotion, and power as a lens, this study explores the lived experiences of a reader labeled as struggling who was enrolled in four different course contexts: traditio...
STANDALONE THORACOSCOPIC EPICARDIAL LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE EXCLUSION FOR THROMBOEMBOLISM PREVENTION IN NONVALVULAR ATRIAL FIBRILLATION

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) have an increased stroke risk. This can be managed by oral anticoagulation (OAC) but a substantial number of patients are ineligible. The left atrial appendage (LAA) is the predominant thrombus source in AF, thus LAA management may reduce stroke risk. We
Why we march! Feminist activism in critical times: Lessons from the women's march on Washington

As professors, we have witnessed, anecdotally, a shift in doing social justice advocacy teaching. We have witnessed within some of our classrooms a more empowered hostility and intolerance to conversations pertaining to social justice. We agree that this phenomenon is pedagogical because this language usage not only teaches, but also legitimizes hate speech. We have witnessed the illogical extension of this hate speech with an increase in hate crimes across the country since the 2016 election, Without peaceful protest and grassroots feminist activism, we fear that this speech, this pedagogy, will spread even more violent forms of hate. This research was conducted in and around the first Women's March of 2017. We wanted to know: What were marchers' prior histories of political activism prior to the election? If this was their first time participating in such a manner, how did the election and its early political fallout inspire marchers to attend? 2) What plans did marchers have for political activism after the march? 3) What can be learned from these participants about the current state of political activism in our current era? A total of 788 individuals had taken part in the online survey. Among the participants, 45% marched on Washington, and 55% participated in the march in their local cities. We found that issues of gender equality were of great concern to many of the marchers. In particular, issues related to economic and social equity, including salary. These findings are interesting as they speak to the broader implications of gender equality. And, as the past few years have demonstrated, these issues continue to be of concern.
Use of Erector Spinae Plane Block in Thoracic Surgery Leads to Rapid Recovery From Anesthesia

Background Ultrasound guidance has resulted in a continuous evolution in techniques for pain control for video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). The objective of this study was to compare erector spinae plane block with intercostal block as multimodal analgesia to elucidate quality of postoperative pain control and preservation of pulmonary function after VATS. Methods A consecutive cohort of patients undergoing elective VATS was enrolled in the study and divided into erector spinae plane block and intercostal block groups. Spirometry and visual analog scale pain score exams were performed to measure forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC ratio, and forced expiratory flow in intervals of 25% to 75%. Chronic pain was assessed by reviewing surgical follow-up notes. Results Seventy-eight patients were included. Comparing the erector spinae plane block group with the intercostal block group found significant improvement in visual analog scale pain score (3.2 vs 6.4, P Conclusions Erector spinae plane block improves acute and chronic pain control and preserves lung function. Thus, it has the potential for enhanced recovery from VATS as part of a multimodal analgesia regimen.
Performance of U3Si2 in an LWR following a cladding breach during normal operation

Abstract High-density fuels have been proposed as a possible replacement for uranium-dioxide as a fuel for light water reactors (LWRs) due to their increased loading of fissionable material. The objectives of this proposal are (1) to increase reactor cycle length and reactor power, and (2) to offset any neutronic penalty associated with advanced cladding systems. Of the high-density fuels under consideration, there is particular interest in triuranium disilicide (U3Si2) due to its increased metal density and favorable thermal properties as compared to UO2. However, there are concerns regarding the chemical compatibility of U3Si2 with water and steam as used for LWR coolant. This paper summarizes research on fuel-coolant chemical compatibility for UO2 LWR fuel during a cladding breach and highlights that generally, because of its chemical inertness, UO2-coolant reactions are of little consequence to reactor operation. However, the volumetric expansion associated with the reaction of UO2 and oxygen is a concern for possible conditions encountered during air ingress of dry storage. These same concerns arise for U3Si2, which exhibits greater volumetric expansion than UO2 when exposed to water or steam. These reactions ultimately result in increased fuel volume that the cladding must accommodate, as well as additional heat generated as the fuel reacts. The BISON fuel performance code was used to perform a comparative analysis on the behavior of UO2 and U3Si2 under normal operation. Silicide fuel simulations were then extended to demonstrate how varying thermodynamic and chemical kinetics influence fuel expansion and subsequent cladding performance during a cladding breach. These simulations were further extended to a 3D subsection of a fuel rod to demonstrate the characteristics of the resulting cladding crack.
Collaboration is the key: faculty, librarian and Career Center professional unite for marketing class success

The purpose of this initiative was to address the learning gap between the classroom, company research, and real-world application that often results in low student learning and engagement. Through...
Quantification of Hypoperfusion in Autism Assessed by Diffuse Correlation Spectroscopy and Frequency Domain Near Infrared Spectroscopy

There is a need for quantitative biomarkers for early diagnosis of autism. We showed previously that hemoglobin concentrations show contrast between autistic group vs control group in humans. Cerebral blood flow can provide additional sensitivity for improved characterization. Diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) has been shown to be reliable method to obtain blood flow contrast in animals and humans. Thus, in this study we evaluated DCS in an established autism model. Our results indicate that autistic group had significantly lower blood flow compared to control group. These results confirm the previous results obtained from humans by positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.
"Finding a General Surgeon: Self-Referral in the Digital Era".

BackgroundAs technology becomes more prominent in today’s society, more patients turn to the Internet to self-refer for a range of surgical problems. Frequently, patients search a nearby hospital’s...
Acyloxyacyl Hydrolase Regulates Microglia-Mediated Pelvic Pain Through Toll-Like Receptor-4

ABSTRACT Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a devastating condition of chronic pelvic pain and urinary dysfunction. We have shown that mice deficient for the lipase acyloxyacyl hydrolase (AOAH) develop pelvic allodynia and exhibit symptoms and comorbidities consistent with IC/BPS, as well as gut dysbiosis. Microglia are resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS) that respond to changes in the gut microbiome, and studies have linked microglial activation to neuropathic pain. Additionally, microglia express toll-like receptors (TLRs), including TLR4, which are activated by microbial components. We have previously shown that AOAH-deficient mice exhibit increased gut permeability, suggesting a possible mechanism of microglial TLR4 activation via translocation of microbial products across the intestinal barrier to the brain. Here, we assessed the role of AOAH and TLR4 in microglial activation and pelvic pain. AOAH immunoreactivity co-localized with the microglial marker P2YR12 but not astrocytes, suggesting a functional role for AOAH in microglia. Pharmacologic ablation of CNS microglia with PLX5622 resulted in decreased pelvic allodynia in AOAH-deficient mice and resurgence of pelvic pain upon drug washout. Aligned with microglial activation, we observed altered cytokine abundance in Aoah−/− cortex that was reduced in Aoah/Tlr4−/− cortex. Consistent with our hypothesis of TLR4 activation by gut microbes, we observed microbiome-dependent activation of cultured BV2 microglial cells. Skeletal analyses revealed that AOAH-deficient mice have an activated microglia morphology in brain regions associated with neuropathic pain, independent of TLR4. Compared to Aoah−/− mice, Aoah/Tlr4−/− mice exhibited decreased pelvic pain and microglial cytokine expression. Together, these findings demonstrate differential roles for AOAH and TLR4 in microglial activation and pelvic pain and thus identify novel therapeutic targets for IC/BPS.
Burden, Belonging, and Homelessness: Disclosure and Social Network Differences among LGBTQ Youth Recruited from a Suicide Crisis Service Provider

Among LGBTQ youth, suicidality and homelessness occur at heightened rates. Using the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (ITS), this study seeks to explore the associations of having a parent, family member, friend, or romantic partner in one's social network and not being "out" to specific network members (lack of disclosure) with ITS constructs (perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belonging), considering homelessness history. Data include 462 youth aged 12-24 who contacted an LGBTQ youth-focused suicide crisis provider from 2015 to 2017. Disclosure status and network composition differed by homelessness experience. Homeless youth were more likely to disclose to their parents and less likely to disclose to other family members. Youth who had not disclosed to their parents reported higher perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belonging whereas having more family members and peers in one's network was associated with lower scores on ITS constructs. Implications for prevention approaches with youth who may be at increased risk for suicide are discussed.
Is Intestinal Diversion an Effective Treatment for Distal Crohn's Disease?

Background Fecal diversion with an ileostomy is selectively used in cases of medically refractory Crohn's proctocolitis or advanced perianal disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical improvement after fecal diversion in Crohn's disease (CD) and factors associated with clinical improvement. Methods A retrospective chart review of adult CD patients undergoing ileostomy formation for distal disease between 2000 and 2019 at 2 CD referral centers was conducted. The primary outcome was the rate of clinical improvement with diversion that allowed for successful restoration of intestinal continuity. Secondary outcomes included the rate of clinical and endoscopic improvement after fecal diversion, ileostomy morbidity, need for subsequent total proctocolectomy and end ileostomy, and factors associated with a clinical response to fecal diversion. Results A total of 132 patients with a median age of 36 years (interquartile range, 25-49) were included. Mean duration of disease was 16.2 years (10.4) years. Indication for surgery was medically refractory proctocolitis with perianal disease (n = 59; 45%), perianal disease alone (n = 24; 18%), colitis (n = 37; 28%), proctitis (n = 4; 3%), proctocolitis alone (n = 4; 3%), and ileitis with perianal disease (n = 4; 3%). Medications used before surgery included corticosteroids (n = 59; 45%), immunomodulators (n = 55; 42%) and biologics (n = 82; 62%). The clinical and endoscopic response to diversion was 43.2% (n = 57) and 23.9% (n = 16). At a median follow-up of 35.3 months (interquartile range, 10.6-74.5), 25 patients (19%) had improved and had ileostomy reversal, but 86 (65%) did not improve, with 50 (38%) undergoing total proctocolectomy for persistent symptoms. There were no significant predictors of clinical improvement. Conclusions The use of a "temporary" ileostomy is largely ineffective in achieving clinical response.
A case study on the influence of fitness trackers on older adults' health and fitness activities

This case study provides insight into older adults' motivation to improve their physical activity through the use of a fitness tracker. The study is qualitative and identified some of the obstacles...
Teach Scheme, reach Java: introducing object-oriented programming without drowning in syntax

We'll discuss a multi-lingual approach to the first year of programming, starting in a simple, consistent language like Scheme to get across essential concepts (e.g. variables, functions, parameters, data types, composition, testing, conditionals, classes with fields, polymorphism, recursion) and a principled methodology of programming. We'll demonstrate how the same topics can be subsequently covered in a more mainstream, but more complex, language such as Java, taking advantage of students' preparation during the Scheme phase of the course. Participants will be invited to a week-long, NSF-funded workshop in Summer 2008, which goes into much more depth on technical, classroom, and curriculum issues [TSRJ08].
Evolutionary Progress: Conceptual Issues

Perhaps no idea has proven more controversial within evolutionary biology than the idea that evolution manifests progress. To some biologists evidence of progress in the history of life has seemed undeniable. From utterly simple beginnings have come organisms of astounding complexity and sophistication. But to others the hazy notion of evolutionary progress appears distinctly unscientific inasmuch as it is thought to require subjective value judgements that have no place in a science based squarely on empirical facts. Debates over evolutionary progress can be substantially, albeit not entirely, resolved by examining some of the assumptions underlying such debates and by attending more carefully to the definition of key concepts such as ‘direction’ and ‘improvement’. Doing so suggests that acceptance of a moderate form of evolutionary progress can accommodate evidence from the history of life while satisfying standards of scientific objectivity. Key Concepts: The concept of ‘progress’ has been controversial within evolutionary biology. Resolving disagreements about evolutionary progress requires careful examination of theoretical, empirical and conceptual issues. Evolutionary progress may be defined as intergenerational directional change embodying improvement in the properties characterising a population of biological entities. A process has a direction over a given time interval if the value of one of its properties increases during that time interval. Directional change, which is an observable fact, must be distinguished from directionality, that is, a tendency to change in a specific direction. It is important to distinguish uniform, net and apex directional change. Critics of the idea of evolutionary progress complain that ‘improvement’ is a value-laden term that cannot be given an objective scientific definition. Improvement in the evolutionary sense is any directional change that contributes to the solution of a problem facing biological entities in a particular environment. A number of biologists, beginning with Darwin, have argued that evolution manifests progress in the sense defined here. If the ability of organisms in even one lineage to cope with some problem impacting their chances for survival and reproduction has improved over some time interval, then evolutionary progress, at least in this limited sense, is a scientific fact. Keywords: progress; evolution; direction; directionality; improvement
Lipid levels are associated with a regulatory polymorphism of the monoamine oxidase-A gene promoter (MAOA-uVNTR).

Background: The monoamine oxidase-A (MAOA) gene plays a vital role in the metabolism of neurotransmitters, e.g, serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. A polymorphism in the promoter region (MAOA-uVNTR) affects transcriptional efficiency. Allelic variation in MAOA-uVNTR has been associated with body mass index (BMI). We extended previous work by examining relations among this polymorphism and serum lipid levels. Material/Methods: The sample consisted of 74 males enrolled in a study of caregivers for relatives with dementia. Regression models, adjusted for age, race, group status (caregiver/control), and cholesterol lowering medication (yes/no), were used to examine associations between high verses low MAOA-uVNTR activity alleles and total cholesterol, HDL, LDI., VLDL, LDL/HDL ratio, triglycerides, and BMI. Results: Higher total cholesterol (p<0.03), LDL/HDL ratio (p<0.01), triglycerides (p<0.02), and VLDL (p<0.02) were associated with low activity MAOA-uVNTR alleles. HDL and LDL were modestly related to MAOA-uVNTR activity, however, they did not reach the conventional significance level (p<0.07 and p<0.10, respectively). BMI (p<0.74) was unrelated to MAOA-nVNTR transcription. Conclusions: The present findings suggest that MAOA-uVNTR may influence lipid levels and individuals with less active alleles are at increased health risk.
In‐School Versus Out‐of‐School Friendships and Academic Achievement Among an Ethnically Diverse Sample of Adolescents

Much of the research on adolescent friendships and school achievement has focused on in-school friends, ignoring the potential effects of having out-of-school friendships. The goal of this study was to examine the relation between having relatively more in-school friends and school achievement among a sample of over 600 12th grade students from ethnically diverse backgrounds. We found that adolescents with more in-school friends, compared with out-of-school friends, had higher grade point averages (GPAs) and that adolescents with higher GPAs had more in-school friends. These relations were mediated by academic experiences, including those shared with friends. However, as hypothesized, the social aspects of adolescents' friendships did not vary according to their percent of in-school friends, attesting to the importance of considering both types of friendships in understanding adolescents' social experiences. None of the relations described varied according to gender or ethnicity.
Thermodynamics of Chemical Systems: The second law of thermodynamics: the entropy function

In the development of the second law and the definition of the entropy function, we use the phenomenological approach as we did for the first law. First, the concept of reversible and irreversible processes is developed. The Carnot cycle is used as an example of a reversible heat engine, and the results obtained from the study of the Carnot cycle are generalized and shown to be the same for all reversible heat engines. The relations obtained permit the definition of a thermodynamic temperature scale. Finally, the entropy function is defined and its properties are discussed. Heat and work reservoirs We define a heat reservoir as any body, used as part of the surroundings of a particular system, whose only interaction with the system is across a diathermic boundary. A heat reservoir is then used to transfer heat to or from a thermodynamic system and to measure these quantities of heat. It may consist of one or more substances in one or more states of aggregation. In most cases a heat reservoir must be of such a nature that the addition of any finite amount of heat to the system or the removal of any finite amount of heat from the system causes only an infinitesimal change in the temperature of the reservoir. A work reservoir is similarly defined as any body or combination of bodies, used as part of the surroundings, whose only interaction with the system is one that may be described in terms of work.
ENERGY LOSS EFFECTS ON HEAVY QUARK PRODUCTION IN HEAVY-ION COLLISIONS AT S= 5.5 A TEV

We study the effect of energy loss on charm and bottom quarks in high-energy heavy-ion collisions including hadronization, longitudinal expansion and partial thermalization. We consider in detail the detector geometry and single lepton energy cuts of the ALICE and CMS detectors at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) to show the large suppression of high PT heavy quarks and the consequences on their semileptonic decays.
How Sulfur Controls Nucleation of Ag Islands on Ag(111)

Pre-adsorbed sulfur controls nucleation of Ag islands on Ag(111), at coverages above a very small critical value. Sulfur can exert opposite effects: it accelerates mass transfer of Ag to steps and hence inhibits nucleation under some conditions, but it impedes mass transfer and hence enhances nucleation under others. The effect depends upon sulfur coverage and temperature. The inhibition or acceleration of mass transfer correlates with the existence or absence of a semi-static, ordered arrangement of Ag3S3 clusters.
Endothelin A Receptor Blockade Decreases Pulmonary Vascular Resistance in Premature Lambs with Hyaline Membrane Disease

Endothelin (ET)-1 is a potent vasoconstrictor peptide that modulates basal pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) in the normal ovine fetus and contributes to high PVR after chronic intrauterine pulmonary hypertension. Although high PVR is present in premature lambs with severe hyaline membrane disease (HMD), whether ET-1 plays a role in the pathophysiology of experimental HMD is unknown. To test the hypothesis that ET-1 activity contributes to high PVR in the premature lamb with HMD, we studied the hemodynamic effects of a selective ETA receptor antagonist, BQ 123, in 10 animals (gestational age 125 d; 147 d = term). After baseline measurements, animals were intubated, treated with surfactant (Infasurf), and mechanically ventilated with a fraction of inspired oxygen of 1.00 for 8 h. Animals were treated with continuous infusions of either BQ 123 (1 mg/h; treatment group, n = 5) or 1% DMSO (control; n = 5). Plasma ET-1 levels progressively increased during prolonged ventilation with hyperoxia (0.8 ± 0.1 pg/mL, baseline to 6.8 ± 2.5 pg/mL, 8 h, p < 0.05). In comparison with control lambs, BQ 123 treatment caused a sustained reduction in pulmonary vascular resistance (0.55 ± 0.04 mm Hg mL-1 min-1, control versus 0.18± 0.04 mm Hg mL-1 min-1, BQ 123, p < 0.05), increased left pulmonary artery blood flow (70 ± 12 mL/min, control versus 194 ± 28 mL/min, BQ 123, p < 0.05), and increased arterial PaO2 (53 ± 14 mm Hg, control versus 174 ± 71 mm Hg, BQ 123, p < 0.05) 8 h after the onset of ventilation. We conclude that circulating levels of ET-1 increase after delivery of premature lambs with severe HMD, and that selective ETA receptor blockade causes sustained improvement in hemodynamics in severe experimental HMD. These studies suggest that ET-1 contributes to the hemodynamic abnormalities in this model of pulmonary hypertension and severe HMD.
Race-Related Stress, Racial Identity Attitudes, and Mental Health Among Black Women

This study examined whether racial identity attitudes moderate the relationship between racist stress events, racist stress appraisal, and mental health. One hundred eighteen African American and 1...
Eigenvalue and eigenvector derivatives of a nondefective matrix

A novel approach is introduced to address the problem of the existence of differentiable eigenvectors for a nondefective matrix that may have repeated eigenvalues. The existence of eigenvector derivatives for a unique set of continuous eigenvectors corresponding to a repeated eigenvalue is rigorously established for nondefective and analytic matrices. A numerically implementable method is then developed to compute the differentiable eigenvectors associated with repeated eigenvalues. The solutions of eigenvalue and eigenvector derivatives for repeated eigenvalues are then derived. An example is given to illustrate the validity of formulations developed in this paper.
Phthalocyanine-labeled LDL for tumor imaging and photodynamic therapy

Current limitation of both near-infrared (NIR) tumor imaging and photodynamic therapy (PDT) is their lack of sufficient tumor-to-tissue contrast due to the relatively non-specific nature of delivering dye to the tumor, which has led to false negatives for NIR imaging and inadequate therapeutic ratio for PDT. Hence, agents targeting “cancer signatures”, i.e. molecules that accumulate selectively in cancer cells, are particular attractive. One of these signatures is low-density-lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), which is overexpressed in many tumors. We have developed pyropheophorbide cholesterol oleate reconstituted LDL as a LDLR-targeting photosensitizer (PS) and demonstrated its LDLR-mediated uptake in vitro and in vivo. To improve the labeling efficiency for achieving high probe/protein ratio, tetra-t-butyl silicon phthalocyanine bearing two oleate moieties at its axial positions, (tBu)4SiPcBOA, was designed and synthesized. This compound was designed to 1) prevent the PS aggregation; 2) improve the PS solubility in non-polar solvent; and 3) maximize the PS binding to LDL phospholipid monolayer. Using this novel strategy, (tBu)4SiPcBOA was reconstituted into LDL (r-SiPcBOA-LDL) with a very high payload (500:1 molar ratio). In addition, (tBu)4SiPcBOA reconstituted acetylated LDL (r-SiPcBOA)-AcLDL with similar payload was also prepared. Since Ac-LDL cannot bind to LDLR, (r-SiPcBOA)-AcLDL can serve as the negative control to evaluate LDLR targeting specificity. For biological evaluation of these new agents, confocal microscopy and in vitro PDT protocols were performed using LDLR-overexpressing human hepatoblastoma G2 (HepG2) tumor model. These studies suggest that LDL serves as a delivery vehicle to bring large amount of the NIR/PDT agents selectively to tumor cells overexpressing LDLR.
Attitudes Toward Violence Scale Psychometric Properties With a High School Sample

Youth violence represents a serious problem affecting individuals, communities, and the larger society. Greater efforts aimed at the eradication of youth violence are necessary, and work in this field could be enhanced by psychometrically strong measures. The present study examined the factor structure of the Attitudes Toward Violence Scale (ATV) using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) with a sample of 359 high school students. A three-factor structure was identified. The three factors were invariant across sex, however, males obtained significantly higher scores on the three ATV factors and on the ATV total score showing generally moderate effect sizes. Directions for future research with the ATV are discussed.
A small molecule in hagfish tissues, possibly related to the cardiac agent, eptatretin.

Abstract 1. 1. Aqueous extracts were prepared from hearts, gills, liver and skeletal muscle of the Pacific hagfish and subjected to chromatography on a calibrated Sephadex column. 2. 2. Every extract contained large quantities of a small molecule having maximum absorbance at 273 mμ. 3. 3. The possible identity and physiological significance of this molecule are discussed.
IFATS Collection: Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Seeded on a Silk Fibroin-Chitosan Scaffold Enhance Wound Repair in a Murine Soft Tissue Injury Model

Soft tissue loss presents an ongoing challenge in reconstructive surgery. Local stem cell application has recently been suggested as a possible novel therapy. In the present study we evaluated the potential of a silk fibroin-chitosan (SFCS) scaffold serving as a delivery vehicle for human adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) in a murine soft tissue injury model. Green fluorescent protein (GFP)-labeled ASCs were seeded on SFCS scaffolds at a density of 1 x 10(5) ASCs per cm(2) for 48 hours and then suture-inlaid to a 6-mm, full-thickness skin defect in 6-week-old male athymic mice. Wound healing was tracked for 2 weeks by planimetry. Histology was evaluated at 2 and 4 weeks. Our data show that the extent of wound closure was significantly enhanced in the ASC-SFCS group versus SFCS and no-graft controls at postoperative day 8 (90% +/- 3% closure vs. 75% +/- 11% and 55% +/- 17%, respectively). Microvessel density at wound bed biopsy sites from 2 weeks postoperative was significantly higher in the ASC-SFCS group versus SFCS alone (7.5 +/- 1.1 vs. 5.1 +/- 1.0 vessels per high-power field). Engrafted stem cells were positive for the fibroblastic marker heat shock protein 47, smooth muscle actin, and von Willebrand factor at both 2 and 4 weeks. GFP-positive stem cells were also found to differentiate into epidermal epithelial cells at 4 weeks postoperative. In conclusion, human adipose-derived stem cells seeded on a silk fibroin-chitosan scaffold enhance wound healing and show differentiation into fibrovascular, endothelial, and epithelial components of restored tissue.
Requirement for HCO3− by ATP: Urea amido-lyase in yeast

Abstract The cofactor requirements of the ATP: urea amido-lyase reaction in Saccharomyces cerevisiae were investigated. The results indicate that HCO 3 − is a required reactant of the reaction as well as one of the products.